Kill Devil ~ Review with Author Q & A

Kill Devil
A Jed Patrick novel #2
By Mike Dellosso

Jed Patrick thought he'd have more time before they found him. He was wrong.  And his family is once again in danger and their safety is being used as leverage against him. Can the information Jed possess about Centralia bring down this evil that has been hiding in the shadows?

With someone willing to do anything to force Jed to do their bidding, will he do whatever they demand to keep Karen and Lilly safe?  With trust at a premium Jed must learn where to place his if he hopes to survive the mission he's been given.

Meanwhile someone has stumbled upon the secret of Centralia and Tiffany Stockton's discovery could place her directly in the cross-hairs. What she has discovered is more distrubing than she ever could have imagined.  And she will have to act fast if she hopes to prevent what Centralia is planning next - a move that would cement their power within the U.S. government .

The psychological manipulation that was evidenced in Centralia is further explored in this book.  Jed has to determine what is real and what has been force fed into his mind. But when what you know has been stripped away and replaced how do you find that which you have lost? Can the faith that has given Lilly strength be the answer that Jed has been seeking?

This is a book that you need to read after first reading Centralia as this book picks up a couple of months after Centralia left off.  The Patrick family is living hidden away in the forested region of Idaho.  The thumb-drive given to Jed by Abernathy and Lawrence is the catalyst that sets everything in motion.

Kill Devil has an ending that could be the conclusion to the series or jump off for yet another story featuring some of these characters as there lives go on after these trying incidents. 

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


Author Q and A:
1. Kill Devil is the sequel to Centralia. How are the two books connected?

First and foremost they are connected by Jed Patrick and his family. Kill Devil picks up where Centralia left off. With the conclusion of Centralia we left Jed and Karen and Lilly headed to Idaho where they would assume new identities and a new life far from any government agency’s reach or knowledge. They would become obscure and live in safety, albeit secluded. But somehow, some way, they are found and in Kill Devil we see the results of that. There is also a continuation of the story behind the Centralia project, a ghost agency buried deep within the labyrinth of Washington politics. Jed is still battling this foe and continues to battle the enemy

within himself as well, his memories and mysterious past.

2. What role does faith play in the lives of some of the main characters—Jed, his wife Karen, daughter Lilly, Tiffany, and Jack?

Faith plays a huge role in all of their lives. In spite of everything they’ve been through, especially Jed with all the brainwashing and torture, their relationship with God has remained the one thing that has gone unchanged. Yes, Jed doubts it at times and had to rediscover it totally, but if there is one ribbon of hope that runs through their lives, it’s faith. Lilly’s faith is the strongest of the three of them, so childlike and unwavering. Jed draws strength from her and in Kill Devil learns that he needs to make her faith his own, he needs to stop channeling strength through her and find his own very real connection with God. Like all of us, their faith development and maturity is a journey with ups and downs and setbacks and growth spurts, but they move forward, learning more, discovering more, and being challenged more and more to simply trust.

3. Things are not always as they seem for Jed in Kill Devil. How is he able to discern what is true versus the lies he receives from people around him or the voices in his head?


At first he can’t. For most of the story and right up until the climax Jed is tortured with thoughts that can’t be his and a reality that seems too bizarre to be real. He isn’t sure what’s real and what’s not. But when everything is on the line he finally cries out to God, he goes back to his base faith, the one thing that has never lied to him, never let him down, never used him for its own purpose. And it’s there, of course, where he finds the truth. And how true is that in our own lives?

4. What is next for you, writing-wise?

I have some ideas for a third Jed Patrick novel and am bouncing them around to see which one fits best. I also have an idea for a stand-alone thriller. Other than that I’ve written a couple short stories featuring Jed Patrick and a bunch of articles and guest posts to promote Kill Devil.

About the Author:

Mike Dellosso is the author of several novels of suspense, an adjunct professor of creative writing and popular conference teacher, a husband, and a father. Born in Baltimore, Mike now resides in southern Pennsylvania with his wife and four daughters.    Visit him at mikedellossobooks.com.

Policed ~ Review

Policed
A Kennedy Stern Novel #3
By Alana Terry

Kennedy's first year at Harvard wasn't what she was expecting, especially her off campus issues. But she's finally getting her panic attacks under control.  And her friendship with Reuben has the possibility of becoming something more...

But Kennedy's life is about to take another unexpected turn when she and Reuben decide to go to the musical Aida.  They never make it - instead they have a highly uncomfortable confrontation with a Boston police officer.  Is this a case of racism or just police brutality?  Kennedy and Reuben are faced with some serious decisions as they deal with the emotional and social fallout of what happened to them.

Feeling as if she is being pulled in multiple directions Kennedy must weight the potential outcomes of coming forward or staying silent. Is she a victim too or is Reuben alone the victim. Does the color of one's skin matter when determining whether or not a crime has been committed? Has Kennedy been blinded by her perceived notions of America?  And can prayer be the answer to help her figure out what she should do?

Policed could be taken from the headlines of today's news. But Alana Terry adds an extra dimension to the headline as she reveals Kennedy's frustrations, fears, and anger both during and after the event. The issue is debated by those closest to Kennedy and Carl and Sandy may once again be the stability that Kennedy needs in this latest storm she finds herself being tossed about by.  There is much food for thought in this book.

I was provided an advanced copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review.



About the Book:
When Kennedy Stern and her best friend Reuben drag themselves away from their grueling studies to enjoy a night off campus, getting pulled over by a belligerent cop isn’t in either of their plans. When the police altercation turns violent, the media notes Reuben’s dark skin and labels this instance of police brutality a hate crime. 

Those Kennedy trusts the most warn her not to get involved, but she owes it to Reuben to pursue justice regardless of the personal cost. Nothing remains a secret when a frenzied media and an embarrassed police department delve into Kennedy’s and Reuben’s backgrounds. 

Some truths, unfortunately, grow increasingly more painful the closer they get to the surface.

Sea Rose Lane ~ Review

Sea Rose Lane
A Hope Harbor Novel #2
By Irene Hannon

Eric Nash just wanted to return to his childhood home and regroup.  But a fender bender as soon as he gets to Hope Harbor gets him off on the wrong foot with the young woman who is remodeling his dad's home. 

BJ Stevens has seen the type before - ambitious, all-for-their-career guys who have no time for anything but the next rung on the corporate ladder and Eric Nash definitely fits the bill if she is any judge of character.  There is just one problem with her assessment everyone in Hope Harbor who knows Eric has nothing but praise for him.  The sooner Eric returns to his big city dreams the happier BJ will be.

Eric has some decisions to make but first he just wants to relax - unfortunately Hope Harbor and her residents have other plans for his time off.  Is it possible to change your life long dream for something else?  

If you've visited Hope Harbor before you can get reacquainted with some of the residents and meet some new ones as well.  Charley is back with his taco stand and we get to see more of him when he isn't cooking.  And then there is Floyd and Gladys a couple who have perfect timing and if you haven't met them yet you won't forget them once you do.

If this is your first visit don't worry you'll fall in love with both the town and her residents.  And you can always catch up with the town's backstory at a later date.

Sometimes our unplanned detours are our greatest blessings and Hope Harbor is a great place to start over after a detour.  And it is an even better place to visit as you read away during a hot summer afternoon

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

About the Book:

Two people starting over . . . in a town known for second chances

After a devastating layoff, attorney Eric Nash heads back to Hope Harbor--only to discover that his childhood home is being transformed into a bed and breakfast. Instead of plotting his next career move in peace, he's constantly distracted by noise, chaos--and BJ Stevens, the attractive but prickly blonde architect who's invaded the house with her motley crew. As for BJ, her client's son might be handsome, but after a disastrous romance, dating isn't high on her agenda. Yet when they join forces for to help Hope Harbor seniors, might they also find healing, hope, and a new beginning themselves?

~ Come home to Hope Harbor  ~

where hearts heal . . . 

and love blooms

The Beautiful Pretender ~ Review

The Beautiful Pretender
A Medieval Fairy Tale 2
By Melanie Dickerson

Fans of Melanie Dickerson's previous books will enjoy this newest book which follows some of the characters to whom we were introduced in The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest.  The Margrave of Thornbeck has been encouraged by King Carl to find a wife from among the daughters of the nobles and sooner rather than later.  But Reinhart Stolten has no desire to bind himself to some unknown woman simply to bring peace to region.

When Jorgen Hartman, his chancellor, suggests a way of testing these ten noble daughters for their suitability Reinhart has no choice but agree to this plan.  With the help Jorgen and his wife Odette, Reinhart prepares himself for the upcoming two weeks of observing and testing - a task he'd rather not be part of.

But one of the honored young woman has no intention of becoming a pawn in her father's desire to strengthen alliances with Thornbeck. The Earl of Pilmmvald has no intention of offending the Margrave and if his wayward daughter refuses to corporate her maidservant Avelina will just have to fill her mistress's shoes (literally and figuratively).  But can a young woman born of servants and working as a servant convince the nobility that she is Lady Dorothea and their equal?

The two most dangerous weeks of her life are about to begin - if she is found out her life, her family and all the people of Pilmmvald are at risk.  But there are even greater dangers awaiting at the castle of Thornbeck than Avelina could have ever anticipated, especially when her highly unusual opinion and skill sets catch the eye of the Margrave. An engagement to the Margrave is the farthest thing from Avelina's efforts - after all a noble taking a servant for his wife is not only scandalous, it could very well be the means by which Reinhart could lose his title and the king's favor.

Can Avelina pretend an interest in the Margrave and yet make him pick a young woman of her choosing?  Determined to keep those she holds dearest Avelina is about to follow the commands of her lord even if she must break her own heart in the process.

This is yet another delight from Melanie Dickerson, one that will keep your attention as the danger increases.  Fans of young adult and historical romantic fiction will enjoy this story set in the 14th century.  Life, most definitely, was not easier as one's life and very being depended on the whims of those who ruled.

I was provided a copy of this book through BookLook in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:
After inheriting his title from his brother, the margrave has two weeks to find a noble bride. What will happen when he learns he has fallen for a lovely servant girl in disguise?

The Margrave of Thornbeck has to find a bride, fast. He invites ten noble born ladies who meet the king’s approval to be his guests at Thornbeck Castle for two weeks, a time to test these ladies and reveal their true character.

Avelina has only two instructions: keep her true identity a secret and make sure the margrave doesn’t select her as his bride. Since the latter seems unlikely, she concentrates on not getting caught. No one must know she is merely a maidservant, sent by the Earl of Plimmwald to stand in for his daughter, Dorothea.

Despite Avelina’s best attempts at diverting attention from herself, the margrave has taken notice. And try as she might, she can’t deny her own growing feelings. But something else is afoot in the castle. Something sinister that could have far worse—far deadlier—consequences

All Summer Long ~ Review

All Summer Long
Follow Your Heart #2
By Melody Carlson

A San Francisco Romance

Tia D'Amico is about to change her life.  She's been given the opportunity of a lifetime, a chance to fulfill her dreams.  Her Aunt Julie has offered her a job - helping to turn an inherited yacht into an upscale restaurant offering dinner cruises.  How could she possible say no?

Having been to San Francisco when she was sixteen years old, Tia has always had fond memories of her summer, especially the week spent at sailing camp and Leo Parker.  And when Leo turns out be to be the captain of Julie's newly acquired yacht, Tia couldn't be more thrilled, until she learns that Leo is engaged.

As Tia and Leo work together to bring Julie's dream into being they develop a special bond of friendship.  And then there is Natalie the woman who has captured Leo's heart.  This is about to be a summer Tia won't soon forget as she faces a family crisis, makes new friends, and works towards her dream job.

Fans of Melody Carlson's writing will enjoy this second book in the Follow Your Heart series.  If you haven't read Once Upon a Summertime don't worry this is a stand-alone book, all new character to love and set in the San Francisco Bay area.  A truly enjoyable getaway that you can take from your favorite reading spot.

This story is seen from Tia's view point and it is fun to get into her as she navigates the new life she is creating for herself.  Tia is the kind of person anyone would love to call a friend.

I was provided a copy of this book by Revell in exchange for my honest review.


About the Book:
She's ready to take on a new challenge. What she doesn't expect is an old flame.

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

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

Get ready for a romantic summer in San Francisco, where the future glistens brighter than the Bay at sunset.

Centralia ~ Review

Centralia
A Jed Patrick Novel #1
By Mike Dellosso

He thought he knew who he was and what his life should be, but now he's not so sure.  His wife and daughter are missing.  Were they killed in the fiery accident as he was told, or are they alive and in trouble as his instincts lead him to believe?

When he discovers a clue that could lead him to the truth he seeks, he finds his life suddenly in danger.  Not knowing who he can trust Peter finds himself on the run.  But those who are hunting him are determined to bring him down and they will use any means necessary to do it.

With not only his life on the line but the lives and safety of his missing wife and daughter as well, Peter discovers skills he never knew he possessed.  Discovering who he is may be the key he needs to survive, but he'll need to put his trust in something other than his own strength.  Peter Ryan needs to rediscover his faith.

A scrap of paper with a clue is all he has to go on - now Peter needs to learn the truth about Centralia!

This is an incredible book that will keep you wondering who is Peter Ryan?  There are layers that need to be peeled back if the truth is to be exposed.  But whose version of truth is real and whose is an elaborate lie?  This is a psychological thriller that will keep you turning the pages late into the night.

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


About the Book:
       Peter Ryan wakes up on a typical morning only to find his house empty, his wife and daughter nowhere to be found. His world is shattered after a phone call to a friend confirms the impossible: his wife and daughter died in a car accident he does not remember. 

         Haunted by faint memories and flashes of details, Peter becomes convinced that something isn’t right and begins to question reality. When he discovers a note in his daughter’s handwriting, strange memories begin to surface that cause him to second-guess nearly everything he once believed. Suddenly armed men show up at Peter’s home, turning the mysterious puzzle of his past into a dangerous game of cat and mouse. 

         On the run and unsure whom to trust, Peter has to discover what’s real and what isn’t . . . before he loses everything.

About the Author:
Mike is the author of seven novels of suspense and several short stories. He also writes family dramas under the pseudonym, Michael King. In addition to his novels he's written for periodicals, websites, and is a regular conference teacher and speaker. 

Born in Baltimore, Mike now resides in Pennsylvania. He is also a colon cancer survivor and speaks often about dealing with suffering. 

Find out more about Mike on his website, www.MikeDellossoBooks.com.

Forever Safe ~ Review

Forever Safe
Beacons of Hope #4
By Jody Hedlund

Three times Victoria Cole has been a bride-to-be, hopefully the third time will see her actually make it down the aisle and back again.  But something has kept Victoria Cole from actually saying "I do."   Nathaniel Winthrop III is perfect - he has wealth, an elite name, handsome and fashionable appearance, and he'll do anything for Victoria.  What more could a young lady of refined society want?

But something could stand in the way of Victoria's happily ever after someone has threatened her life.  And it is no idle threat as her long time bodyguard nearly lost his life protecting her.  With her marriage just weeks away Henry Cole has no choice but to hire Tom Cushman to guard his daughter.

But when another attack almost succeeds, Victoria is hidden away in a secluded location known only to her father and Tom.  But to pull off Tom's plan to keep her safe, the two must pose as newlyweds and convince Tom's parents of their "wedded bliss".

One problem with Tom's plan - Victoria has to leave behind the luxuries and comforts of her pampered life.  Can Victoria survive a month of making due without maids and a housekeeper?

Keeping Victoria safe is Tom's number one goal. But he must keep her at arm's length if he is to finish the job with his heart intact.

But even if Victoria's attacker is caught will she ever truly feel safe?

Forever Safe can be read without reading the previous Beacons of Hope books, but it is interesting to see the series progress and read about the various light houses and the history behind them and the characters upon whom the draw on. Unlike the previous books in this series this book is not set in the Great Lakes region but rather the East Coast. Fans of historical romance will enjoy this book and fans of Jody Hedlund will enjoy this continuance in her series that has a touch of mystery that will keep you in suspense.

I was provided an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.


About the Book:
Race Point, Massachusetts, 1876

Will she ever be able to stop running, even when she believes she’s finally safe?

Heiress to a vast fortune, Victoria Cole has everything she wants, including the perfect fiancé. Having left two other men at the altar, Victoria is sure that now she’s found her true love and will finally live happily ever after. As her wedding draws near, however, Victoria’s life is threatened. To keep her safe, Victoria’s father hires a bodyguard.

Tom Cushman’s number one priority is protecting his clients, which means no personal entanglements. But he’s never guarded someone as beautiful and winsome as Victoria. After a near-kidnapping, the wedding is cancelled, and Tom hides Victoria at Cape Cod’s Race Point Lighthouse until her attacker can be found. Appointed as assistant light keeper with Victoria posing as his wife, Tom believes the isolation of the lighthouse will keep her safe.

As Victoria struggles to live without familiar luxuries, her heart betrays her with growing feelings for her protector. Determined to help Tom stop fleeing from his haunted past, can the runaway bride learn to face her own fears? With the attacker closing in, will both of them ever be able to stop running and find the safety they long for?