Double Cross ~ Review

Double Cross
An FBI: Houston Novel 2
By DiAnn Mills

Five years ago FBI Agent Laurel Evertson was working undercover.  She got her man but her partner lost his life during the take-down.  And Morton Wilmington has promised to make her pay in blood!  And Laurel can't get past the guilt of what this case cost her.

When the elder scammer case she's working on seems to leads back to the man she put behind bars Laurel is understandably worried.  Morton claims to have "found" God, but Laurel's convinced it is all part of the new angle he's working and that she's the target with revenge the motivation.

Daniel Hilton, an officer with the Houston PD, along with his grandparents go to the FBI with their concerns involving a life insurance scam targeting the elderly.  Soon Daniel finds himself working with Laurel Evertson and  Morton Wilmington.  And the case takes a deadly turn as all who are involved become a target and those who are being scammed begin dying.

There is mounting evidence that they are being Double Crossed, but who is being double crossed? Time is running out in this game of cat and mouse where more is at stake than millions of dollars.  

Double Cross is full of suspense and unexpected twists.  This is one book that will keep you guessing as to who the criminal mastermind is until the last pages when the identity is revealed in the ultimate double cross.

It is interesting to observe the interactions between Daniel, Morton and Laurel.  Daniel and Morton both claim to have a relationship with Christ while Laurel wants nothing to do with someone who couldn't keep the pain she's experienced out of her life.  Morton's incarcerated conversion is viewed with skepticism.  While Daniel at times struggles with trusting God where his grandparents' safety is concerned.  This book will cause one to stop and think - how can anyone judge the truth of another's heart where God is concerned.  Truth is evidenced in what we see but none can see into the heart. We can only see the outward evidence of what is in the heart by actions that a person commits.  And Double Cross will prove that what we see isn't necessarily the inner truth of the heart.

Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

About the book:
FBI Agent Laurel Evertson’s investigation into a scam targeting the elderly takes an unexpected twist when key evidence leads her to Morton Wilmington, a felon she arrested five years ago on her first undercover assignment. That case has haunted her since, and though she’s vowed to forget Wilmington—and what she sacrificed to put him away—he is now her best lead.

Houston Police Officer Daniel Hilton fears his grandparents may be the scammer’s next targets, and he’ll do anything to protect his family—even force interagency cooperation. But he’s quickly drawn to Laurel’s empathy and zeal and agrees to follow her lead . . . even if it means teaming up with a felon.

As the unlikely trio uncovers evidence suggesting the scam is more extensive and deadly than they imagined, both Laurel and Daniel find themselves in the crosshairs of a killer. Together they must decide if they can trust Wilmington’s claims of redemption, or if he’s leading them straight into a double cross.

About the Author:

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She combines unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels.

Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers' Choice, and Carol award contests.

DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers; the 2015 president of the Romance Writers of America's Faith, Hope, & Love chapter; a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, and International Thriller Writers. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.

DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media sites listed at www.diannmills.com.

Connect online @

 http://www.facebook.com/diannmills

 http://twitter.com/#!/diannmills

By Your Side ~ Review

By Your Side
Crisis Team 1
By Candace Calvert

Macy Wynn is tough and she knows she can only count on one person - herself.  Her father wants nothing to do with her on a personal level. Her mother died when she was a child.  And Macy spent most of her childhood in the California foster care system.  The only connection from her childhood left is Leah, a young woman whom she considered a sister.  In her opinion this upbringing has prepared her for a career as an ER nurse.

Fletcher Holt, a police deputy, has reluctantly put his life in Houston on hold.  He's moved to Sacramento to be there for his mother who's battling cancer.

When Macy and Fletcher both respond to a freeway accident they find themselves in the middle of a random sniper-of-opportunity attack.  But when attacks start occurring around Sacramento Hope tensions rise as the hospital and Macy seem to be a common factor in the attacks.  The only question is why is someone targeting Macy?  

By Your Side will keep you guessing as to who the perpetrator is.  It is also interesting to see Fletcher in this book after his appearance in Life Support.  Leaving Jessica behind in Houston is Fletcher's main regret, but there is something about Macy that captures Fletcher's attention.  Something beyond her tough exterior.  

I have to say this was an enjoyable diversion after work.  And this would be the perfect way to spend a day off.  Get ready for some excitement from the California Delta region (which I'm partial to as it was my birth place).

Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

ER nurse Macy Wynn learned essential, gritty lessons in the California foster care system: land on your feet and trust no one. She's finally located the fellow foster child she loves like a sister, but the girl's in deep trouble. Macy's determined to help, no matter what it takes. Her motto is to "make it happen" in any situation life throws at her—even when she butts heads with an idealistic cop. Deputy Fletcher Holt believes in a higher plan, the fair outcome—and his ability to handle that by himself if necessary. Now he's been yanked from Houston, his mother is battling cancer, and he's attracted to a strong-willed nurse who could be the target of a brutal sniper. When everything goes wrong, where do they put their trust?

Old Fashioned ~ Review

Old Fashioned
Novelization by Rene Gutteridge
Screenplay by Rik Swartzwelder

Chivalry 

          makes a 

                           comeback

Clay Walsh has made a vow to be a changed man.  He no longer wants to be the man that he was, even if it means isolating himself away.  He wants to treat women with the respect they deserve.  Clay's ideals are the source of ridicule in the town in which he lives.  His theories on love and romance are odd and outdated, but he has been living by them for nine years.  He has yet to meet the woman who understands his views.

But when Amber Hewson arrives in town his theories are about to be tested.  Something about Amber draws him and terrifies him at the same time.  Amber senses something about Clay is different though she's not sure what it is exactly.  But when her apartment needs a repair she learns quickly what about Clay is different - he won't do the needed repair and be alone with her in the apartment.  His "rules" confuse and intrigue her, but how do you get to know another person when you don't know the rules?

This is a book that I highly recommend - the values Clay lives by are in fact ones that I was taught from a young age and men and women who live by these standards are hard to find today.  Pressure to conform to the lax morals of today come from all sides and it is hard to stand for what one believes as evidenced by the ridicule Clay faces (even from friends).

I think my favorite line comes from Betty - "You know, marriage is kind of like a tea bag. You don't know how strong it really is till you get it in some boiling water.  And the water don't boil till you're over the heat, and the heat don't come till you say, 'I do.'"

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher Tyndale through TBCN/BookFun in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

Former frat boy Clay Walsh has given up his reckless lifestyle and settled down to run an antique shop in a small Midwestern college town. Determined to put his partying ways behind him, Clay has become notorious for his lofty and outdated theories on love and romance. But when Amber Hewson, a free-spirited woman with a gypsy soul, rents the apartment above his shop, Clay can’t help being attracted to her spontaneous and passionate embrace of life. 

New to the area, Amber finds herself surprisingly drawn to Clay and his noble ideas, but her own fears and deep wounds are difficult to overcome. Can they move beyond their differences and their pasts to attempt an “old-fashioned” courtship?

Beneath the Forsaken City ~ Review

Beneath the Forsaken City
The Song of Seare 2
By C.E. Laureano

Having escaped Conor and Aine are again separated by circumstances beyond their control.  Each struggles with the possibility that the other may be dead, while at the same time facing a period of testing.  Testing that will reveal just how strong their trust and faith in Comdiu truly is.

Having helped Conor and Aine escape, Eoghan returns to the brotherhood to resume his place and to accept whatever punishment Liam deems applicable to his crime.  

War is coming and the sidhe are growing in influence over those who have rejected Comdiu.  Keondric's power is growing as his forces prepare to assault Ard Dhaimhin and capture the ancient secrets it protects.

It is during this time that new gifts among Comdiu's followers are discovered.  Gifts that are needed to preserve what is and to restore that which has been lost.  But can the gifts be seen for what they truly are or will they be used for individual gain?

Beneath the Forsaken City is a time of loss and a time of learning.  Conor, Aine and Eoghan must learn what their own weaknesses are and that their true strength lies not in the gifts Comdiu has given, but in Comdiu himself.  And unfortunately some lessons are are costly.

Beneath the Forsaken City picks up where Oath of the Brotherhood left off.  And to truly grasp and understand the second book in The Song of Seare series you need to read the books in order as many references are made to incidents that happened prior.

This is an exciting and thoughtful book. It will keep your attention from the opening sentence, "Conor Mac Nir leaned against the railing of the Resolute in the dark, watching the choppy seas splash along the cog's wooden hull." until the last sentence, "You are."  And between these two sentences exist words that will pull you into the world of Seare.

Fans of Tolkien, C.S. Lewis and George MacDonald have a new world to explore - Seare.

Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through their blog network in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

A Storm on the horizon.

A Brotherhood scattered.

A future denied.

Who will stand against the darkness?

Conor and Aine have barely escaped Seare with their lives. Conor knows he must return to 

find the harp that could end the Red Druid’s reign of terror, but in the midst of their escape, 

he and Aine are torn apart once more. Surrounded by despair and thrown into as much danger 

as they left behind, Conor and Aine must cling to the whispers of Comdiu’s plans for them and 

the homeland that depends on their survival. But at what cost? Will they learn to depend on 

Comdiu completely? Or will they give up hope?

Always on My Mind ~ Review

Welcome to a New Year and a New Christiansen Family novel

Always on My Mind
A Christiansen Family Novel #4
By Susan May Warren

Casper just can't stop thinking about the woman he left behind - the woman who broke his heart.  But Raina has a secret that just may totally destroy what little feelings Casper has left for her - she's expecting a baby and soon.  But the biggest blow is when Casper learns who is the father of Raina's baby.

But this time instead of running off in search of lost treasure Casper returns to Deep Haven determined to be someone that can be counted on.  But old feelings die hard and Casper still is seeking his worth.  A worth that he feels will forever be as hidden as the treasure that he seeks.

But trying to forget Raina seems impossible especially when she somehow ends up in Deep Haven too.  But Raina has told Casper that she wants nothing to do with him, even before Eden's wedding and the fight with Owen that tore their family apart.  But Casper can't stand to see Raina hurting and he's worried she might be hurt again.

Meanwhile the family's resort is still struggling to recover after the fire that nearly destroyed it.  But Darek is struggling to save the resort at the cost of his family.  But he can't let go and allow Casper to shoulder part of the load - after all Casper isn't dependable, always off seeking treasure.

Like most families the Christiansens are struggling.  Fearing that they won't measure up to their own expectations or those they think other have, they often overlook the offer of help from family.  Raina feels as if she is outside looking in wanting the very thing that the Christiansens have - family to love and support you even when you stumble.  And she is sure that the choice she made will forever keep her on the outside.

Adding to the the skill with which Susan May Warren crafts this story is a mystery of old - a mystery which sparked Casper's fascination with treasure.  And the time may be right for Casper to finally find the treasure which he has sought.  The only question is is it a treasure of the heart or one of worldly worth...

If you have read the previous Christiansen Family novels and novellas you won't be disappointed and you'll be eagerly anticipating book 5 The Wonder of You (summer 2015) which seems to be hinted at in the epilogue of Always on My Mind.

Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book: After a failed dig in Honduras, aspiring archaeologist Casper Christiansen heads home to Minnesota to face his unresolved feelings for Raina Beaumont, the woman of his dreams. But when he arrives unannounced on her doorstep, he receives the shock of a lifetime: Raina is pregnant with someone else’s baby.

Heartbroken, especially when he discovers the identity of the baby’s father, Casper tables his dreams and determines to be dependable for once, helping his older brother, Darek, prepare the family resort for its grand reopening. Casper longs to be the hero of at least one family story, but a never-ending Deep Haven winter and costly repairs threaten their efforts—and the future of the resort.

Worse, one of Casper’s new jobs constantly brings him into contact with Raina, whom he can’t seem to forget. A tentative friendship begins to heal fresh wounds, but can they possibly overcome past mistakes and current choices to discover a future together?

Guest Post from Author Cindy Thomson

Today we have a special treat - a guest post from Cindy Thomson.  Cindy is the author of the recently released Annie's Stories and its prequel Grace's Pictures.  Today Cindy shares a little about the special foods that play such an important part in a traditional Irish Christmas.  

With a month until Christmas Enjoy this gift from Cindy and be sure to check-out 

Cindy's live Facebook Christmas party on Monday December 1st 

5:00pm - 7:30pm EST  http://on.fb.me/1wTigIz!

Giveaways, chats, and guests are on the schedule!

Trim, County Meath Ireland from Flickr credited William Murphy

Why is it holidays seem to revolve around food? Possibly because sitting around a table to eat is the best way to bring families together for conversation and good times. I used food in my latest novel, Annie’s Stories, to evoke a sense of home for Annie who was searching for that place after her life was disrupted. (You can find some of the recipes from that novel here.)  http://cindyswriting.com/2014/07/06/early-20th-century-recipes-from-annies-stories/

Since my stories feature Irish characters, and much of what I’ve written centers on Ireland and Irish culture, I’d like to share some traditional Irish Christmas recipes with you.

Christmas dinners traditionally feature a roasted goose. Turkeys are a more recent substitution. Other dishes included three types of potato dishes: roasted, boiled, and mashed. You might also find roasted parsnips, cabbage, and brussels sprouts. For desert you’d have plum pudding. On St. Stephen’s Day (Dec. 26) you would serve Irish Spiced Beef.

If you’d like to learn about some Irish foods like mash, bread sauce, and celeriac, check out a post I did for the Irish Fireside. http://irishfireside.com/2013/12/16/christmas-dinner-irish-style/

Plum Pudding is no quick dish to make. Perhaps that’s why there are traditions about the family helping. Below is a recipe I copied. I’ve never made this myself. I’ll stick to cookies. But if you’re adventurous, go for it. I’d love to hear how yours came out. (You can contact me through my website www.cindyswriting.com)

Christmas Pudding from Flickr, credited: Peter Hilton 

Traditional Christmas plum pudding recipe

By CHEF MICHAEL GILLIGAN, Irish Central Staff Writer.

10 eggs
1 cup white flour 

4 teaspoon cinnamon
2 teaspoons allspice


2 teaspoons nutmeg
4 ounces chopped almond pieces

1 grated apple
1 pound light brown sugar 

1 medium carrot, grated (this optional ingredient probably crept into the recipe 

    during WWII when fruits was in short supply) 

Rind and juice of an orange and a lemon

3 pounds raisins use some currants, some yellow, and some sultanas. The more 

    variety in fruits, the better the pudding. 

8 ounces candied cherries or natural dried cherries

24 ounces bread crumbs

12 ounces candied peel (candied pineapple chunks, citron, mixed peel)

1 pint of Guinness

5 tablespoons of hard liquor 

1 pound butter or finely minced suet if preferred

Mix all the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Rub the raisins and other fruits with the flour and spices. The flour adheres to the stickiness of the fruits and gives the pud a nice even texture.

Cut the butter into fine pieces and mix well with the dry ingredients.

In a separate bowl mix the liquid ingredients. When the liquids have been well stirred, add them to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix all together very well.

The batter should be a bit loose, a little thicker than a cake mix. If it’s dry like bread dough, add more Guinness.

My mother would grease a big square of unbleached muslin and pour the pudding into this, tying off the top with string. In these modern times, heat-proof bowls are an acceptable substitute for the cloth bag method...and much easier.

Line the bowl with parchment paper; fill to within an inch of the top of the bowl. Cover the batter with parchment paper and use a lid for steaming. Sealing the top of the bowl with foil will work if there is no self-lid for the bowl. Fill the pot in which you are steaming the pudding to just below the top of the pudding bowl and gently boil for at least 12 hours. I use the slow cooker for this and it works very well. Depending on the size of the bowls used, you may get about three puddings from this recipe. I triple it and get at least a dozen quart-sized puddings. (Big family!)

When the pudding has cooled, remove it from the bowl, dribble brandy (or any other whiskey-type stuff) over the top of it, letting as much sink in as possible. Seal the puddings in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. (Don’t let the aluminum touch the pudding as there is a reaction that dulls the foil and I suspect this is not good for the pud or the people eating it.)

Let it sit for as long as possible before serving. Three or four months is not too long. Occasionally dribble the pudding with a shot of the spirit of your choice: brandy, whiskey, bourbon, etc.

Traditionally, the pudding was steamed again for an hour before serving. There are two possible methods: Remove the wrapping, return the pudding to the original bowl, and steam again for an hour.

Turn it out on a heat-proof serving plate and proceed to the lighting process that follows the brandy butter recipe---or---unwrap the pudding, place it on the serving platter, and microwave for 10 minutes at 50 percent power. The microwave method, though obviously not traditional, works exceptionally well, and has become traditional in my family!

Brandy Butter (Hard Sauce)

1 cup butter

1 cup confectioner's sugar


1/2 cup brandy (or whiskey, Irish or otherwise)

Soften butter. Beat the butter with an electric mixer until it’s fluffy. Slowly add an equal amount or more of confectioner’s sugar. You will see that the mixture changes texture. 

Slowly add the brandy after this textural change in the sugar/butter blend. Beat further until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Spoon the brandy butter into serving dishes and chill until firm. When turning the mixture into the serving dish, finish off the top by swirling it into a circular pattern with the bottom of the spoon for a decorative effect.

Garnish everything with Holly in berry if you have it.

To light the plum pudding, pour a generous cup of Christian Brothers Brandy (none other!) on top. There’ll be a little puddle on the plate. That should light pretty easily and the blue flames will creep up the sides.

Douse the lights in the dining room to bring in the pudding to the acclaim of all at the table. Don’t be disappointed if the flame is out quickly. That’s how it goes.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Cindy Thomson is a writer and an avid genealogy enthusiast. Her love of history and her Scots-Irish heritage have inspired much of her writing, including her new Ellis Island series with Tyndale House Publishers. Cindy is also the author of Brigid of Ireland and Celtic Wisdom: Treasures from Ireland, and is co-author of the baseball biography Three Finger: The Mordecai Brown Story. In addition to books, Cindy has written on a regular basis for numerous online and print publications and is a mentor for the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and the Historical Novel Society. Cindy and her husband have three grown sons and live in central Ohio. 

Visit her online at www.cindyswriting.com or on Twitter: @cindyswriting.

The Remaining ~ Review

The Remaining
Novelization by Travis Thrasher

The Remaining is a story that you don't want to read right before bed.  If you do be prepared to stay up through the night because this is the type of book that will keep you up.

One year ago Lauren started having visions, visions that ended in pain and hurting.  And the pain was being felt by her best friends.  And on the day of Dan and Skylar's wedding Lauren's nightmares come true...

Tragedy strikes shortly after the marriage vows are exchanged. And on a day that should be filled with celebrations of new beginnings, everything is forever altered and those left to make sense of everything are baffled.  Carnage and chaos are making their presence known and the survivors have a choice to make.  A choice that will either end everything or be a new beginning.

Sometimes the path to true freedom is the one that comes with facing the nightmare.

The Remaining is a novelization of a movie of the same name.  This is an intense and dramatic Rapture story that is told through a variety of voices.  The gathering of friends and family for a wedding is the focal point of the book until the Rapture occurs.  This isn't your typical clothes left behind story which just from the cover of the book should be fairly obvious.  I mean look at the cover it is pretty creepy looking.

Fans of Ted Dekker and Frank Peretti should find this book to be highly appealing.

I was provided with a copy of this book by Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:
The Remaining is a novelization of the apocalyptic movie from Sony Affirm. Just after a young couple says their vows, the earth shakes, and some people die suddenly and are taken away. The rest of their wedding party and friends are left to wrestle with what happened and with their faith. Characters struggle with secret love, dreams, hopes, and beliefs as they continue to evaluate their faith. This book and movie are both action-packed thrillers that will encourage audiences to think about their beliefs.

Oath of the Brotherhood ~ Review

Oath of the Brotherhood
The Song of Seare 1
By C.E. Laureano

Connor Mac Nir is the son of the king.  A prince who has been fostered by Labhras O Maonagh while King Galbraith yet sits upon the throne.  And the time has come for him to return to his home.  But Connor knows he will be a disappointment - he has no skill in the ways of a warrior but rather the knowledge of a scholar and a gift with the harp.  But King Galbraith has found a use for his son he is to be a hostage of the kingdom of Faolan in exchange for an alliance between the kingdoms.

In Faolan, Connor's skill with music is encouraged.  And he is allowed to follow the Balian faith, a faith that has been forbidden in Tigh upon pain of death.  But it is his growing friendship with Aine, the king's youngest sister, that has the greatest influence upon him.  Aine and Connor develop a unique bond that allows both to further hone their gifts - gifts that have a tie to the ancient magics of the Balian faith.

An ancient evil is gaining power, bringing the threat of war with it.  Time is running out and Connor must leave everything he knows and loves behind to find his true path and how to use it for Comdiu's glory.  But is he truly prepared to pay the price that his path is about to cost?

This is a truly fantastic book and I can't wait until the second one is released in February 2015.  That in my opinion is the sign that a book is well-worth my time when I want to read a second book in the series.

About the Book:
In a kingdom where the Old Ways hold fast and a man’s worth lies entirely in his skill with the sword, Conor Mac Nir is a scholar, a musician, and a follower of the forbidden Balian faith: problematic for any man, but disastrous for the son of the king.

When Conor is sent as a hostage to a neighboring kingdom, he never expects to fall in love with the rival king’s sister, Aine. Nor does he suspect his gift with the harp (and Aine’s ability to heal) touches on the realm of magic. Then his clan begins a campaign to eliminate all Balians from the isle of Seare, putting his newfound home in peril and entangling him in a plot for control of the island that has been unfolding since long before his birth.

Only by committing himself to an ancient warrior brotherhood can Conor discover the part he’s meant to play in Seare’s future. But is he willing to sacrifice everything—even the woman he loves—to follow the path his God has laid before him?

All for a Story ~ Review

All for a Story
By Allison Pittman

Monica Bisbaine is determined to live life her way.  And her way is having as much fun as she can, flirting with any man who is within a mile of her, and having a boyfriend who's married.

But Max Moore, her new boss at Capitol Chatter, has other plans when he takes over.  He wants to find the good in Washington D.C. and he wants it reported.  And when one of Monica's articles brings both her and the paper to the notice of local gangsters, Max is determined to bring new values to the paper.  His first assignment for Monica join the Anti-Flirt Society and report on their efforts.

But Monica isn't changing her ways without a fight and she's determined to bring Max down (to the fun and illegal life of speakeasies and liquor).  But Monica is about to be broken and see herself in a new light.

About the Book:
Monica Bisbaine loves being a modern girl in the Roaring Twenties. Her job writing a gossip column allows her access to all the local speakeasys in Washington, D.C., where she can dance the night away—and find fodder for her next article. But when the owner of the Capitol Chatter newspaper passes away, Monica wonders what will happen to her job, and the lifestyle she loves.

Max Moore may hold the title of editor-in-chief for evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson’s paper, The Bridal Call, but Aimee calls all the shots. So when Max learns that his great-uncle has passed away, leaving him all his earthly possessions, Max resigns and heads to D.C. Determined to take over the Capitol Chatter, infuse it with his values, and turn it into a respectable paper, Max is soon bumping up against the equally determined Monica Bisbane.

Under Max’s direction, Monica embarks on her most challenging assignment yet: infiltrating and reporting on the Anti-Flirt Society. Though reluctant at first, as Monica meets and mingles with the young women of the club, she begins to question the innocence of her flirtatious lifestyle. And when romance begins to blossom between Max and Monica, she must choose where her loyalties lie: with the young women of the society or the alluring pull of the speakeasy and its inhabitants.

Born of Persuasion ~ Review

Born of Persuasion
Price of Privilege #1
By Jessica Dotta

Julia Elliston has just lost her mother and finds herself at the mercy of an unknown guardian who seems determined to hide her away as a servant in Scotland.  But Julia has one chance to secure her own future when she is allowed a short visit with her dearest friend.

But Julia's plans of escape are dashed when she discovers that a marriage with Edward is no longer an option.  Julia attempts to take matters into her own hands, but soon finds herself caught up in a world of which she has no understanding.

Can Julia extract herself from the web in which she has unwittingly trapped herself?  And what about Edward, has she truly lost him forever?

This is the first in a trilogy by Jessica Dotta that explores a world in which so many are currently fascinated.

About the Book:

The year is 1838, and seventeen-year-old Julia Elliston’s position has never been more fragile. Orphaned and unmarried in a time when women are legal property of their fathers, husbands, and guardians, she finds herself at the mercy of an anonymous guardian who plans to establish her as a servant in far-off Scotland.

With two months to devise a better plan, Julia’s first choice to marry her childhood sweetheart is denied. But when a titled dowager offers to introduce Julia into society, a realm of possibilities opens. However, treachery and deception are as much a part of Victorian society as titles and decorum, and Julia quickly discovers her present is deeply entangled with her mother’s mysterious past. Before she knows what’s happening, Julia finds herself a pawn in a deadly game between two of the country’s most powerful men. With no laws to protect her, she must unravel the secrets on her own. But sometimes truth is elusive and knowledge is deadly.

Evergreen ~ Review

Evergreen
A Christiansen Winter Novella
By Susan May Warren

Evergreen is Ingrid and John Christiansen's story.  With their children all grown and gone Ingrid and John have a chance to do things they weren't able to do before.  But John's planned Christmas surprise is thwarted when Ingrid volunteers them for their church's major Christmas project.

But John's determined to still surprise Ingrid, until the money he needs goes towards Butter's emergency surgery.  When he accidentally reveals what he planned Ingrid is not impressed and almost angry with him.

When a family member reaches out for help Ingrid offers her assistance.  This is yet another issue that seems to come between the two.

For some reason neither can understand they've drifted apart over the years.  As they struggle to make their marriage work they must come to terms with an old heartache that they've been avoiding for years.  But the biggest thing standing their way is whether they can even face this issue even now.

This one Christmas the Christiansens of Deep Haven aren't soon to forget as they struggle through old hurts and come to a new understanding with each other and a new trust in God.  Though it is under 200 pages this is a book that packs a whole lota story in the pages.  And be sure to have a tissue or two on hand, you just may need it.

Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
About the Book:
An empty nest has Ingrid Christiansen dreading the upcoming holidays, but her husband, John, couldn't be more excited about this new season of life. He even has a surprise trip abroad planned. He's sure she'll love it. What's more romantic than Christmas in Paris? 

Before he can stop her, however, Ingrid agrees to spearhead a major church project. Then their faithful dog, Butterscotch, needs emergency surgery, draining their savings. And then—because disasters strike in threes—an unexpected guest arrives, dredging up old hurts. 

As a beautiful blanket of snow transforms the north woods into a winter wonderland, a deep chill settles over John and Ingrid's marriage. With the holidays fast approaching, their only hope of keeping their love evergreen depends on turning the page on the past and embracing a new chapter of their future. 

Every Waking Moment ~ Review

Every Waking Moment
By Chris Fabry

Treha Langsam has a gift, but most people can't see it because it is hidden away inside the body of woman who is damaged.  She has no memory of her childhood, though she longs for one.  In fact Treha is so intent on have a story and past that she'll borrow someone else's story to see if she can make it her own.

But the residents of Desert Gardens see and recognize Treha's gift, because she uses it in her daily dealings with them.  She helps them in a way no one can truly understand.  She draws them back to a awareness of what they use to be.

But Treha's past is missing for a reason.  She is the answer to some baffling medical issues that have recently been brought to light.  But her very existence is also a threat.

Who is Treha?  And can her life ever be anything more than it is?  These are the questions that are the thread of the story.  And the answers lie in having respect for others, dignity during all stages of life, and the responsibilities of science.  This is a powerful and moving story that will touch your heart.

There are other stories running throughout Every Waking Moment - there is Miriam Howard who is the director of Desert Gardens and also Treha's advocate.  There is Dr. Crenshaw who takes a special interest in Treha and her talents.  Devin Hillis is documenting the residents of Desert Gardens hoping that he will find The Story that will make his fledgling company take flight.  And then Du'Relle who is Treha's young neighbor who is determined to be her protector though he has his own problems to deal with.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.

Life Support ~ Review

Life Support
Grace Medical 3
By Candace Calvert

Lauren Barclay's life is all about nursing and her younger sister Jessica.
Meanwhile PA Elijah Landry's own life is in turmoil with a disabled brother with health issues, a father threatening him, and a young daughter to raise on his own.

But their personal and professional lives aren't the only storms affecting Houston.  With a hurricane bearing down on the Gulf Coast Lauren and Elijah's lives are going to get to a whole lot more stormy.

Lauren and Eli seem to feel that the future if their siblings rest on their shoulders.  Can these two hurting people learn to put their trust on God?  And can their families move past their pains and bridge the distances that have slowly worked their way into their lives?

Fans of Candace Calvert won't be disappointed in this  her newest book.  Get ready for some medical intrigue with a generous helping of romance thrown into the mix.

About the Book:

Nurse Lauren Barclay put her life on hold to keep a watchful eye on her troubled sister. It’s why she’s back in Houston. But that means confronting the brooding physician assistant who caused painful turmoil in her family—and left Lauren with memories her heart can’t forget.

PA and single parent Elijah Landry is no stranger to stormy relationships, including one with his father, who is threatening him with a restraining order. It won’t stop Eli from protecting his disabled brother—or from making peace with Lauren. He wants that and so much more.

But as Lauren and Eli draw closer, a powerful hurricane roars toward Houston. Survival instincts take priority and everything changes. Can hope weather the storm?

Firewall ~ Review

Firewall
FBI Houston 1
By Diann Mills

Taryn Young's life is just about perfect.  A whirlwind romance.  Marriage to the perfect man.  And now she's about to leave on her dream honeymoon.

But then everything is shattered.  The airport is the site of a terror attack no one saw coming.  Her new husband is missing.  She's in the hospital, being questioned as if she was the criminal behind this nightmare. But more is on the line than proving her innocence - the lives of those closest to her are now in danger.

The FBI has its job cut out for it.  All the evidence seems to be pointing towards Taryn and her new husband.  But Taryn maintains her innocence and something about her pleas makes Agent Grayson Hall wonder if Taryn may be just another victim, or if she might actually be the target.  But little evidence supports Taryn's claims.

As time passes the dangers and threats increase.  But who is behind this attack?  Is it domestic? or foreign? The truth will surprise you.

Fans of Diann Mills will not be disappointed in her newest book.  If you like romantic suspense this book is for you.

About the Book:

After a whirlwind romance, Taryn Young is preparing to board a plane at Houston International Airport, bound for a dream honeymoon, when a bomb decimates the terminal. Injured but still alive, she awakens to discover her husband is missing and they’re both considered prime suspects in the attack. Further, the FBI is convinced her husband isn’t who he appears to be.

Agent Grayson Hall’s number-one priority is to catch those responsible for the day’s act of terror. All evidence is pointing to Taryn and her new husband. But his instinct tells him her pleas of innocence are genuine. Is her naiveté just for show, or could she truly be another victim of a master scheme, possibly linked to the software she recently developed for her company?

With both their lives and reputations on the line, and the media outcry for justice increasing with each passing minute, Taryn and Grayson have no choice but to trust one another . . . and pray they can uncover the truth before they become two more casualties.

All For a Sister ~ Review

All For a Sister
By Allison Pittman

Celeste DuFrane has lost her mother to cancer.  At 20 she is now alone, but she has just found out that she a coheir to everything her parents left.  And the woman she is to share everything with is the woman who killed her sister more than 20 years ago.  But Dana Lundgren doesn't seem like a cold-blooded killer.

Celeste and Dana are bound by secrets that are over 20 years old.  The question is will these secrets destroy them or bring them together?  And why did the truth have to wait so long to be revealed?

When she was 12 years old Dana was accused of killing the Dufrane's baby daughter Mary.  A crime for which she was never tried, but for which she lost 20 years of her life.  The world as she knew it no longer existed.  Every new experience is frightening in the very its very newness.

Celeste can't understand why the woman accused of killing her older sister would be given a share in her parents possessions.  Dana too can't understand the reasoning behind this.  But Marguerite DuFrane left behind a confession written almost from her deathbed and a lifetime of secrets begin to come to light.

It is amazing the power hate can have over one's life and the power money and prestige can hold.  One woman's power and hate were the driving force that shaped the lives of those around her.  I think of the books in this series I like this book the best.  I like the glimpses of Celeste and Dana together and the growth of their characters as they live together and discover who they both truly are.  I like the character of Werner Ostermann who sees Dana for who she was and who she can become.  He understands her fears and is there to help her get past them.

I was provided with a copy of this book by the publisher Tyndale through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

In Hollywood during the Roaring Twenties, Celeste DuFrane has it all. Her father’s work with color movie film opens doors that lead to the stardom she’s always aspired to. But after losing her mother, she discovers that half the estate has been left to a woman accused of killing Celeste’s baby sister before Celeste was even born.
Dana Lundgren arrives on the steps of the DuFrane mansion having spent most of her life imprisoned for a crime that never happened. After accusing her of murder so many years ago, why did Marguerite DuFrane leave her a sizeable inheritance?


As Celeste and Dana learn each other’s stories, they come up with more questions than answers. Then a surprising discovery begins to fill in the missing pieces: Marguerite DuFrane’s written confession, penned shortly before her death. Uncovering the treachery and deceit that changed the course of countless lives—most of all, their own—the two women find more than they ever dreamed of.

About the Author:

Allison Pittman is the author of For Time and Eternity, Stealing Home, the Crossroads of Grace series, and her nonfiction debut, Saturdays With Stella. A high-school English teacher, she serves as director of the theater arts group at her church. She is also the co-president of a dynamic Christian writers group in the San Antonio, Texas area, where she makes her home with her husband and their three boys.

Mark of Distinction ~ Review

Mark of Distinction
The Price of Privilege #2
By Jessica Dotta

Julia Elliston has escaped.  At least for the moment.  But she has been caught in a web of deceit from which she never emerge.  In Born of Persuasion Julia had seemingly escaped from the designs of her guardian, until she found herself forced into a marriage she didn't want to a Mr. Chance Macy.  To Julia's surprise and horror she was the unwitting pawn in a game of chess between Mr. Macy and Lord Pierson, the father she never knew of.   With the help of Edward Auburn Julia escaped Mr. Macy and made her way to Maplecroft, her father's home.

But now she is at the mercy of her father's schemes to destroy Mr. Macy and to secure political future of Lord Issac Dalry.  Julia is left with little choice in what her life has become as Lord Pierson manipulates the lives of those around him.

Mark of Distinction is an intriguing book as one tries to figure out what exactly who is doing what and what their ultimate goal is.  One feels sorry for Julia, though some of her problems are of her own making.  I think Issac is the one person empathize the most with.  He too is at the beck-and-call of Lord Pierson.  But he truly cares about Julia and her feelings.

This is a book that I don't think you could read without first reading the previous book.  You need to read Born of Persuasion to fully grasp the nuances of the characters and their relationships.  I can't wait to read book 3 to find out what happens.  Does Julia have a happy ending?  Or will she bow to her father's demands?

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher Tyndale through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review. 

About Book:

London is said to be the glittering jewel of society, a world unto itself--but to Julia Elliston it is a city of shadows.  Her life is swiftly dissolving into scandal.  And in Victorian society, even a whisper of scandal--substantiated or not--can be the death of a young woman's reputation. Now under the watchful eye of Lord Roy Pierson, one of most influential men in England, Julia begrudgingly accepts his protection.  But Chance Macy's power is far-reaching as well, and he is eager to assert his claim over her.

Thrust into society as the Emerald Heiress, Julia is the toast of London, a celebrated curiosity. But in reality she's trapped between the clutches of two powerful men.  Aided only by a gentleman whose intentions she prays she can trust, Julia must finally take control of her own fate--but outwitting one's foe rarely goes according to plan.

About Author:

Jessica Dotta has always been fascinated by the intricacies of society that existed in England from the Regency through the Edwardian era. She writes in a manner that blends past and modern fiction techniques. She lives in the Nashville area and works as a free lance media consultant and publicist. Her first novel Born of Persuasion releases in September of 2013.

When I Fall in Love ~ Review

When I Fall in Love
A Christiansen Family novel
By Susan May Warren

This is the third book in the Christiansen Family series and Grace Christiansen is the featured family member.  But all the Christiansens are in When I Fall in Love and this is an interesting and intriguing story to say the least.

Grace's life is safe and predictable as long as she stays home in Deep Haven.  But no one gets it - when she's away from home she's miserable and disaster is just waiting to catch her with her guard down. So when her family surprises her with a 3-week (3-weeks away from home in the middle of an ocean!) culinary vacation in Hawaii Grace is less than thrilled.  But her family won't take no for an answer.  So Grace is off to Hawaii and thanks to big sister Eden and her fiancé Jace she is going to be babysat by Jace's former teammate Max Sharpe.

Max has no time for romance.  He's all business and for him business is hockey except for the 3 weeks he spends each year in Hawaii cooking.  The last thing Max wants is to babysit the needy soon-to-be sister-in-law of his teammate.  And Max has a secret - a secret that he refuses to share with anyone - a secret that is controlling his life.

But life has a way of surprising us and Max and Grace are both in for one when they seem to hit it off almost immediately.  Friendship seems safe if only they can make their hearts listen.

Meanwhile back in Deep Haven Owen is slipping further into his no regrets rebellion- no matter who it hurts in the process.  And he is about to cause some big hurt in his family with his latest actions.

Eden and Jace are moving forward with their wedding plans and want Grace to cater it.  And Derek just may have found someone.  Take a trip back to Deep Haven and visit with the Christiansen family as they navigate the twist and turns of life - some of it good and some of it bad.  When I Fall in Love is a book that you'll enjoy and just like the song of the same name it is forever which is how love should be viewed.

Hawaii was the last place Grace Christiansen ever imagined she’d vacation, much less fall in love. But when her family surprises her with a cooking retreat in paradise, she is pulled—or maybe yanked—away from her predictable, safe life and thrown headfirst into the adventure of a lifetime.

Max Sharpe may make his living on the ice as a pro hockey player, but he feels most at home in the kitchen. Which is why he lives for the three-week culinary vacation he takes each year in Hawaii. Upon being paired with Grace for a cooking competition, Max finds himself drawn to her passion, confidence, and perseverance. But just when Grace dares to dream of a future beyond her hometown, Max pulls away.

Wrestling with personal demons, Max fights against opening his heart to a love he knows he should never hope for. And as his secrets unfold, Grace is torn between the safe path in front of her and what her heart truly desires. If love means sacrificing her ideal happily ever after, Grace’s faith will face its toughest test yet.

Annie's Stories ~ Review

Annie's Stories
A Ellis Island Novel
By Cindy Thomson

Annie Gallagher has a problem with trust, but after her father's death her trust in others severely damaged at the hands of those she should have been able to put it in.  Fortunately she was rescued from the situation in which she found herself, and Ireland is far away from New York.  But home is also far away, but not just because of distance.  

Can Annie ever find "home" ever again?  After all family means home and Annie's parents are gone.

Stephen Adams works for the the Post Office, making deliveries to Hawkins House. Stephen Adams is delighted that he and Annie share a fondness for books and the new book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is a delightful book that they both love. 

Before her father died, he wrote out the stories that he created for Annie.  This last act of love means the world to Annie.  These stories represent the happiness of home, family, and Ireland to Annie.  When Stephen gets a glimpse of the stories he is delighted with them and he thinks Annie should publish them.  But Annie doesn't want to share her stories, her father with the world.  But these stories could prove to be the answer to Annie's dreams.

But trouble is lurking just around the corner and Hawkins House could be shut down when accusations against the newest boarder are threatened to be exposed and Annie's prayers seem to have no affect at all. And everyone seems to be keeping secrets, secrets that are of importance to Annie.  

Annie's Stories brings to life the plight of those coming to America seeking a better life.  The characters that we were introduced to in Grace's Pictures are back in this latest offering from the pen of Cindy Thomson. As the characters work to create the lives they dream of we are drawn to America of 1901.  We often refer to "simpler times" but the struggles of living were and are the same we face today.

Prepare to be delighted as you step into Annie's world and discover with Annie the importance of trusting in others.

I was provided a copy of this book by the author/publisher in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Book:
The year is 1901, the literary sensation The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is taking New York City by storm, and everyone wonders where the next great book will come from. But to Annie Gallagher, stories are more than entertainment—they’re a sweet reminder of her storyteller father. After his death, Annie fled Ireland for the land of dreams, finding work at Hawkins House.

But when a fellow boarder with something to hide is accused of misconduct and authorities threaten to shut down the boardinghouse, Annie fears she may lose her new friends, her housekeeping job . . . and her means of funding her dream: a memorial library to honor her father. Furthermore, the friendly postman shows a little too much interest in Annie—and in her father’s unpublished stories. In fact, he suspects these tales may hold a grand secret.

About the Book:
Though the postman’s intentions seem pure, Annie wants to share her father’s stories on her own terms. Determined to prove herself, Annie must forge her own path to aid her friend and create the future she’s always envisioned . . . where dreams really do come true.

Cindy Thomson

Cindy Thomson is a writer and an avid genealogy enthusiast. 

Her love of history and her Scots-Irish heritage have inspired

 much of her writing, including her new Ellis Island series. Cindy 

is also the author of Brigid of Ireland and Celtic Wisdom: Treasures 

from Ireland. She combined her love of history and baseball to co-author 

the biography Three Finger: The Mordecai Brown Story, which was a 

finalist for the Society for American Baseball Research's Larry Ritter Book Award. 

In addition to books, Cindy has written on a regular basis for numerous online and print publications and is a 

mentor for the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild. She is also a member of American Christian Fiction 

Writers and the Historical Novel Society. Cindy and her husband have three grown sons and live in central Ohio. 

Visit her online at www.cindyswriting.com.

The Advocate ~ Review

The Advocate
Randy Singer

He defied an emperor

and inspired a faith

I've read Randy Singer in the past and have enjoyed his legal thrillers, so I was intrigued by the premise of The Advocate.  A young man determined to bring justice to an empire that willingly sacrifices the blood of the "guilty" for pleasure.

When an incident in school teaches fourteen year old Theophilus the true horrors of crucifixion he determines to become a champion of the accused innocents of Rome.  

But Theophilus's chosen path is not one of ease.  In fact it takes him to one of the most troubled regions within the empire - Judea.  And during his assignment in Judea, Theophilus has a front row seat at the trial of Jesus, a rabbi accused of threatening the power and supremacy of Rome!  This is one encounter Theophilus will not be forgetting and it will set the stage for what is about to come.

 As Rome falls further into the decay brought about Caesars who are more deranged than their predecessor Theophilus comes to an understanding of the message that the Nazarene brought.  But this understanding could very well cost him his life.

If you like historical fiction that brings you into the story with all the detail you will love this book.  Randy Singer has created an incredible and moving experience that will give you a greater appreciation of the days of Jesus and the persecution the early believers faced in the first century.

I was provided a copy of this book by the Tyndale Blogger Network in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:
At the trial of Christ, Theophilus, brilliant young assessore raised in the Roman aristocracy, stands behind Pontius Pilate and whispers, “Offer to release Barabbas.” The strategy backfires, and Theophilus never forgets the sight of an innocent man unjustly suffering the worst of all possible deaths—Roman crucifixion.

Three decades later, Theophilus has proven himself in the legal ranks of the Roman Empire. He has survived the insane rule of Caligula and has weathered the cruel tyrant’s quest to control the woman he loves. He has endured the mindless violence of the gladiator games and the backstabbing intrigue of the treason trials.

Now he must face another evil Caesar, defending the man Paul in Nero’s deranged court. Can Theophilus mount a defense that will keep another innocent man from execution?

The advocate’s first trial altered the course of history. His last will change the fate of an empire.