Portrait of Vengeance ~ Review

Portrait of Vengeance
A Gwen Marcey Novel #4
By Carrie Stuart Parks

When the Interagency Major Crimes Unit that Gwen Marcey is currently working with is assigned a case that is too eerily like her past Gwen takes the case. The similarities to what she has hidden for years along with the proximity to where it happened is too coincidental to ignore.

But confronting her past may be more than Gwen can take when the very people she trying to help take offense with her very presence and her ex-husband is demanding sole custody of their daughter. But when Gwen targeted she can't help wondering if the danger is from the past or the present.

But with a young girl missing and the clock working against her Gwen has her work cut out for her. She is determined to bring Beatrice home and find the person responsible for what she believes is a string of serial killings. But is her determination to finally face her past making her see a pattern where none exists?

First off this is most definitely a mystery so mystery fans take note of this one. Second, this is the fourth book in the series, which I will admit I did not know before getting this book in my hands. Yes, I could have done a bit of research and easily found out that this was part of a series. But had I done so I might not have picked this book to review. Having not previously read the previous books I was not at a disadvantage when I started reading this book. I was not familiar with some references to previous cases, situations, etc., but that had no bearing on my reading experience.

I will admit there were a few scenes that were a tad gruesome for my normal reading fare but not to the point of where I felt a need to be done with the book. And her ex-husband is quite the "charmer" from the few scenes that he puts in an appearance. And in case you're wondering it is really hard to figure out just who the bad guy is in this one.

After reading Portrait of Vengeance and the small excerpt of the first book I have to read the other books (Time to pull out the library card!) If you want some reading that will keep up at night don't pass on this book. And for those who might find this of note Gwen is a cancer survivor and there are (I think) some attempts at humor in regard to this that I'm afraid I did not find humorous. But that could be me.

I was provided a review copy of this book by BookLook Bloggers /Fiction Guild with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:

An unsolved case. 

A tempest of memories. 

The future’s at stake—and time is running out . . .

Gwen Marcey has done a good job keeping the pain of her past boxed up. But as she investigates the case of a missing child in Lapwai, Idaho, details keep surfacing that are eerily similar to her childhood traumas. She doesn’t believe in coincidences. So what’s going on here?

No one knows more about the impact of the past than the Nez Perce people of Lapwai. Gwen finds herself an unwelcome visitor to some, making her investigation even more difficult. The questions keep piling up, but answers are slow in coming—and the clock is ticking for a missing little girl. Meanwhile, Gwen’s ex-husband is threatening to take sole custody of their daughter.

As Gwen’s past and present collide, she’s in a desperate race for the truth. Because only truth will ensure she still has a future.

The Legacy ~ Review

The Legacy
Secrets of the Shetlands #3
By Michael Phillips

This book is the conclusion to Michael Phillips's Secrets of the Shetlands series which takes the reader on a journey through time and place. This is a story told on two fronts the past and the present and both take place in America and the Shetland Islands. And as anyone who has read Michael Phillips in the past will readily agree his stories are a delight and the reader does not get lost with the changes between time.

Loni Ford has come to Whales Reef (Shetlands) because unknown to her she has familial ties to the land, ties that have given her unexpected inheritance. And this inheritance is more than one of monetary gain but rather the gift of knowing the part of her history that has been missing since her parents' deaths when she was but a young child. But Loni's arrival in the Shetlands was not without its drama as the island residents had to come to terms with an American, and a woman at that had inherited what they felt rightfully belonged to one of their own. And some claimants to the inheritance are not best pleased adding another layer to a complex story

But time has made Loni a favorite among the locals and her deepening feelings for David Tulloch seem to parallel the very journey her great-grandparents undertook in 1924. But will Loni be forced to choose between the long-held traditions of the Shetlands or the modern life she has created for herself in Washington, D.C.? But in 1924 it was Brogan Tulloch who was faced with choosing the life of the Islands and the role of chief and laird to the village or following his heart to the United States and a future with Emily Hanson.

But throughout is a thread of faith in both the past and present, one that binds the stories together in a legacy that has a definitive effect on the Island and those who call it home. Altogether this is a beautiful story that one has come to expect from Michael Phillips. If you haven't read the two previous books please do before starting this one. One can easily read this book on its own but the series as a whole is just some much richer. And don't be scared off by the occasional comments by the locals that tend towards the brogueish tongue - it will grow on you and adds a delightful touch.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:

The Dramatic Conclusion to Michael Phillips's Shetland Islands Saga

Loni Ford's unexpected inheritance of substantial real estate--not to mention a title--in the Shetland Islands has caused more than a stir in the quiet fishing hamlet of Whale's Reef. How is life ever to be the same with an outsider--and a woman, at that--playing such a pivotal role in the life of this conservative community? But it isn't just the locals who have deep misgivings about the current situation. Loni herself never imagined this in her wildest dreams. 

What Loni is more sure of, however, is that she is falling in love--with Whales Reef, with its hardy people, with its simple, peaceful way of life, and with local chieftain David Tulloch, whose inheritance she has usurped, at least in the eyes of some. 
But life in Whales Reef is not without drama. Deep rifts exist between certain lifelong residents, and when one local resident turns up dead, suspicion is cast in the direction of the island's most prominent family. How Loni and David deal with this challenge will go a long way in determining their future, and that of the quaint island community.  

The Soldier who Killed a King ~ Review

The Soldier Who Killed a King
By David Kitz

A true retelling of the Passion

Marcus Longinus has lived for years in the Judean region doing his duty for Rome. But this year the Passover celebration in Jerusalem is unlike any he has before experienced. The city and the people seem to be on the verge of an uprising. A most unlikely man is being heralded as if he were a conquering king - a man who has a most disconcerting ability of appearing to see into the very core of a person.

But the favor this man has found among the people is not shared with those who rule the spiritual and commercial aspects of the Jewish people. And this lack of favor is about to drag all who rule into its net. The week that follows is one that will make Marcus question what he has always believed.

The Soldier Who Killed a King is a look at the week leading up to the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus seen through the eyes of the man who is charged with seeing the will of Pilate carried out. This is an emotional journey that takes the reader on the journey of Christ's final Passover, one that would change the world forever.

I have to say this is an emotionally moving work. The pain that Jesus must have suffered in His sacrifice is portrayed in such a way that I can say I felt sick at just what He suffered. David Kitz has truly brought this week to life. His portrayal of Herod, Pilate, and Caiaphas and the actions of each man to try to work and manipulate the outcome of events is remarkable.

I recommend this book - it is graphic and horrific,  but to truly appreciate a sacrifice one must to be able to comprehend the cost and The Soldier Who Killed a King can bring this home.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.  

About the Book:

A stunning story of Holy Week through the eyes of a Roman centurion

Watch the triumphal entry of the donkey-riding king through the eyes of Marcus Longinus, the centurion charged with keeping the streets from erupting into open rebellion.

Look behind the scenes at the political plotting of King Herod, known as the scheming Fox for his ruthless shrewdness.

Get a front-row seat to the confrontation between the Jewish high priest Caiaphas and the Roman governor Pontius Pilate.

Understand as never before the horror of the decision to save a brutal terrorist in order to condemn the peaceful Jew to death.

If you've heard the story of Passion Week so often it's become stale, now is the time to rediscover the terrible events leading from Jesus's humble ride into the city to his crucifixion. The Soldier Who Killed a King will stun you afresh with how completely Christ's resurrection changed history, one life at a time.  

Historical and Theological Foundations of Law ~ Review

Historical and Theological
Foundations of Law 
By John Eidsmoe

If you are looking for something to read that has some depth and educational values I highly recommend this book. Well, books is a more accurate description as this is a 3 volume set.  Volume 1 covers Ancient Wisdom, Volume 2 Classical and Medieval, and Volume 3 Reformation and Colonial.

This set covers law in such a way that the reader is taken on a journey of world history with law being the thread that is followed from the earliest recorded moments of humanity up to the modern legal structures upon which America was founded (yes, I realize that to some the 18th Century is not considered modern) The rise and fall of nations is contrasted with what we know of their legal system and their commonly held beliefs in God or in gods.

Homeschoolers, if you are looking for a suggestion in regards to a textbook or a supplement to an existing course on world history and government I personally believe this would be an excellent choice. This would be a great addition to any home, school or church library. Believe me when I say this is one set you'll want to re-read and take notes.

I was provided a copy for review purposes by the publisher through TBCN with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.



ABOUT THE BOOKS (1417 pages):

The Law! What is it, and where does it get its authority? Because someone with a crown and scepter has commanded it? Because a council has adopted it? Because a judge has upheld it? Or is law "law" because a Higher Authority has ordained it so? The Laws of Nature? And of Nature's God? Do "echoes of Eden" remain, faintly reminding us of an Original Plan? What is the Common Law? When did it begin? Is it relevant or binding today? And what of the Laws of the ancient Hebrews-an irrelevant footnote, or the cornerstone of all true Law?

With unparalleled scope and minute detail, Historical &Theological Foundations of Law studies the legal systems of ancient societies all across the earth, explores their common threads and differences, and traces their development through history, and notes common trends that should cause hope or alarm today. Embark with us on a journey to discover the earliest origins of Law.
Volume I - Ancient Wisdom

Volume II - Classical and Medieval

Volume III - Reformation and Colonial


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
John Eidsmoe brings to this study the combined disciplines of the soldier, jurist, theologian, and historian. A retired Lt. Colonel in the Air Force and a Colonel in the Alabama State Defense Force, Eidsmoe is an Adjunct Professor for the Oak Brook College of Law & Government Policy, for the Handong International Law School in South Korea, and for the Institute of Lutheran Theology.

The Memory of You ~ Review

The Memory of You
By Catherine West

For 13 years Natalie Mitchell has been living with the memory of her sister's death and trying to be what Nicole would have been. But Natalie isn't Nicole, she knows she can never become close to being the outgoing people person her twin sister was. And worse Natalie knows that she is a disappointment to her parents. On the brink of another breakdown, Natalie agrees to go to California, to her grandfather's home in the heart of Sonoma's wine country.

Her father has demanded that Natalie start proceedings to shut down Maoilios, the winery that her grandparents started. But returning to Maoilios may be the escape Natalie needs to recover and face her past.

But Tanner Collins is determined to send Natalie back to New York as soon as possible. He knows she's there at her father's bidding to shut down Maoilios and destroy everything he has worked for. But Hal Mitchell has faith in his granddaughter and knows that if Natalie is given the chance that she'll fight for Maoilios and her family's legacy if only he can convince Tanner to trust Natalie.

Tanner has his own issues revolving around his family and his guilt and as a result, he is an all around grump who is anything but helpful to Natalie's already fragile mental state. But when Natalie finds herself in need of help Tanner is the only one to whom she can turn.

Can working together help Tanner and Natalie heal from the wounds of the past that have left a mark on their hearts?  

The Memory of You is a moving and touching story that explores the value of family and the power of secrets and guilt upon the heart and mind. I really liked Natalie from the first chapter. Tanner really needed a good shake with his major attitude - it might have knocked the chip he was carrying around on his shoulder off. It was interesting to see how each character reacted differently to a situation and how it shaped them and their future responses.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the Fiction Guild with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
 

About the Book:
Thirteen years ago, Natalie lost a part of herself when her twin sister died. Will traveling back to the family winery finally put the memory to rest, or will it completely destroy her?

When Natalie Mitchell learns her beloved grandfather has had a heart attack, she’s forced to return to their family-owned winery in Sonoma, something she never intended to do. She’s avoided her grandparents’ sprawling home and all its memories since the summer her sister died—the awful summer Natalie’s nightmares began. But the winery is failing, and Natalie’s father wants her to shut it down. As the majority shareholder, she has the power to do so.

And Natalie never says no to her father.

Tanner Collins, the vintner on Maoilios, is trying to salvage a bad season and put the Mitchell family’s winery back in business. When Natalie shows up, Tanner sees his future about to be crushed. He knows Natalie intends to close the gates, and he's determined to convince her otherwise. But the Natalie he remembers from childhood is long gone, and he’s not so sure he likes the woman she’s become. Still, the haunted look she wears hints at secrets he wants to unearth. He soon discovers that on the night her sister died, the real Natalie died too. And Tanner must do whatever it takes to resurrect her.

But finding freedom from the past means facing it. For both of them.

Beneath Copper Falls ~ Review

Beneath Copper Falls
A Rock Harbor Novel #6
By Colleen Coble

Dana Newell is returning to Rock Harbor, leaving behind an abusive and domineering fiance behind (at least that's the plan). Thankfully her brother Chris has offered to let her share his new home and she has a job waiting for her as a 911 dispatcher.

But the peace that Dana was seeking in Rock Harbor is all too soon shattered when a friend from her past makes a desperate plea for help to 911. Has Dana brought the danger with her or is there something more sinister at work in this town that she has called home since her parents' deaths?

Beneath Copper Falls is an intense page turning book that will keep the reader guessing as to the identity of who the perpetrator truly is. Colleen Coble truly keeps the reader guessing as to who did what to whom. This book might literally keep the reader up well past the last page if read before bed. Can I just say creepy....WOW! Now I need to go back and read the previous Rock Harbor books.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book through the Fiction Guild with no expectations of a review positive or otherwise. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Dana has already learned that love isn’t safe . . . 

but could it be different in Rock Harbor?

As a 911 dispatcher, Dana Newell takes pride in being calm in tough circumstances. In addition to her emotionally-charged career, she’s faced enough emergencies in her own life. She recently escaped her abusive fiancé to move to tranquil Rock Harbor where she hopes life will be more peaceful.

But the idyllic town hides more danger and secrets than it first appeared. Dana is continually drawn to her new friend Boone, who has scars inside and out. Then she answers a call at her job only to hear a friend’s desperate screams on the other end. Soon the pain in her past collides with the mysteries of her new home—and threatens to keep her from the future she’s always wanted.

Chasing Secrets ~ Review

Chasing Secrets
Elite Guardians #4
By Lynette Eason

Haley Callaghan's early life in Ireland wasn't easy but she has no idea just what she lost years ago and the truth is about to come out. And someone is determined to keep her from learning the truth that has been hidden for over 25 years.

Living in South Carolina, Haley has no idea that her past is about to find her and place her and those around her in the crosshairs of danger. And her job with Elite Guardians places her in enough danger as it is and Haley has just taken on a case that has made her an enemy that has a way of escaping justice. With more than one target on her back, Haley has caught the attention of Detective Steven Rothwell is determined to help her stay safe.

Now Haley just has to survive long enough to discover who wants her dead and rescue those who've been put in danger because she cares. With Steven determined to not lose another person under his protection and the rest of the Elite Guardians backing her up, Haley has a fighting chance to see tomorrow. And Haley has a whole reason to see tomorrow - one she never expected to have.

This is the concluding book in the Elite Guardians series and fans of the series should not be disappointed though it would have been interesting to learn the back story on some of the later additions to the group. Haley's story is interesting and the various potential suspects and the overlapping of personal and professional just adds another layer to the suspense. I can honestly say I was left guessing up to the big reveal.

For readers who haven't previously read any or all of the books in this series don't worry you won't get lost as each book focuses on a different character or characters. Each story builds on the previous one much like one's own life - time passes and new acquaintances enter while others leave. The old and new in your life don't have to meet in order to enjoy (or not) spending time with you. So take the time to get to know Haley as she uncovers secrets from her past.


About the Book:

Intensity. 

Skill. 

Tenacity.

The bodyguards of Elite Guardians Agency have it all.

When a photo leads investigators in West Ireland to open a twenty-five-year-old cold case, Elite Guardians bodyguard Haley Callaghan's life is suddenly in danger. Haley knows how to take care of herself; after all, she's made a career out of taking care of others. But after she has an uncomfortably close call, Detective Steven Rothwell takes it upon himself to stay with her--and the young client she has taken under her wing. A protector at heart, he's not about to let Haley fight this battle alone.

In a sweeping plot that takes them into long-buried memories--and the depths of the heart--Haley and Steven will have to solve the mystery of Haley's past while dodging bullets, bombs, and bad guys who just won't quit.