English

8.11.2021

Songs in the Night ~ Review

Songs in the Night
Wyldhaven #12
By Lynnette Bonner

Aurora McClure has taken Parson Clay's apparent disinterest in her a sign that she is to move on and the opportunity to attend the music conservatory just be the answer she's been praying for. Before she has a chance to leave Wyldhaven the reason for Preston Clay's disinterest seems to have stepped off the afternoon coach!

But sometimes what the eyes see isn't what truly is. Poppy Scarlatti is a part of Preston's past he never expected to have to deal with ever again. But here she is in Wyldhaven ready to do whatever it takes to get Preston to fold to her demands. And Poppy's demands are anything but law abiding! But Preston is no longer the man she knew and she'll just have to resort to a little subterfuge to get him willingly join her in her 'plan'.

Songs in the Night is altogether delightful story. This is the 12th book in the Wyldhaven series but can easily be read without reading the previous books. There are references to events from previous books (I think) but nothing that detracts from the understanding or enjoyment of this book. I also enjoyed getting to know the other characters who call Wyldhaven home. Life isn't easy and has moments anguish and joy and these characters experience both giving the reader a fully fleshed out book. Excellent for those who want clean inspiring reads.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion ~ All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:
Aurora McClure would like nothing more than to march into Parson Preston Clay’s church and give him a kiss that would knock him into the next county. But since she’s not that kind of woman, and he’s shown little inclination toward her, she’s decided to run instead. Leaving town will be infinitely better than remaining where she will need to continue fighting her feelings. If only she had peace about the decision! 

Parson Preston Clay sits at his desk and glares at newcomer Kane Carver, who’s just asked for permission to call on Aurora McClure. His jaw aches. He’s been suffocating his feelings for Aurora for years because his calling requires long hours with low pay and it’s not the kind of job for a family man. Yet . . . staring at Kane, he realizes if he doesn’t act, he might lose Aurora forever.

But just when he sets aside his hesitations, a woman from his past—his distant and nefarious past—rides into town. And though he’s far from the same man he once was, she hasn’t changed a bit. She thinks he’s running a con and wants him to use his safecracking skills to help her break into the bank. When he refuses, how far will she go to ensure his cooperation? And how much will Preston be willing to compromise when she takes Aurora captive?

In the darkest hours of the night, he desperately cries out to the only One who can help him. The One who gives songs in the night.

Take the next stagecoach to Wyldhaven, where the coffee's perked hot, the sheriff likes his apple pie fresh from the oven, and adventure invariably waits just around the next river bend.

8.10.2021

Set in Stone ~ Review with Giveaway

Set in Stone Just Read Blog + Review Tour 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 
Set in Stone by David James Warren, 


Set in Stone
The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone #4
By David James Warren

Every time Rembrandt Stone thinks he has a handle on what his altered past/present looks like everything shifts. Could his life get any worse? If the serial killer he is hunting has any say in the matter it just may. Worse it looks as if someone is trying cast doubt on Rem himself. 

This timeline finds Rem with part of his former life (the life lost in time) as it should be. But can he ever have anything more than almost? Or will further forays into the past destroy what he has recovered? And the Jackson killer has his eyes set on Rembrandt and when a serial killer fixates on you you know that is never good.

Now this is the fourth book in The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone series and you absolutely, positively have to read books 1-3 first, if you don't you will be more lost than Rem Stone has ever been on any of his steps into the past. This is a progressive series where each builds upon the actions of the one before it and in Rem's case, his mistakes are the driving catalyst behind everything - starting with the accidental activation of his late chief's watch. 

This book, this series has it all - mystery, suspense science fiction, romance. Don't miss out on what could be your reading experience of the year! Bring on books 5 and 6! Now, this is not a clean or a gentle read but there is nothing overly graphic or extraneous in this book. There is murder and violence but no gory descriptive details to bog you down or bring on nightmares. The nightmares are left to Rem, no matter which timeline he finds himself they persist. Highly recommend this book to fans of suspense!

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion - All thoughts expressed are my own.


ABOUT THE BOOK

The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren, and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing collectively as David James Warren.


Title: Set in Stone 
Series: The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone #4
Author: David James Warren
Publisher: TriStone Media
Release Date: August 10, 2021
Genre: Time Travel Detective Series

Rembrandt Stone is on the case of a serial killer. But when the killer finds him first, he puts the one person Rembrandt loves in his cross hairs. Now, Rembrandt must outwit time to save the people he loves.

The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren, and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing as DAVID JAMES WARREN.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub

BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

CONNECT WITH REMBRANDT STONE: Website | Instagram

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren, David Curtis Warren 

James L. Rubart is 28 years old, but lives trapped inside an older man’s body. He’s the best-selling, Christy Hall of Fame author of ten novels and loves to send readers on mind-bending journeys they’ll remember months after they finish one of his stories. He’s dad to the two most outstanding sons on the planet and lives with his amazing wife on a small lake in eastern Washington. More at http://jameslrubart.com/

CONNECT WITH JAMES: WebsiteFacebook | Instagram | Twitter

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and RITA award–winning author of more than eighty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. The mother of four grown children, and married to her real-life hero for over 30 years, she loves traveling and telling stories about life, adventure, and faith. For exciting updates on her new releases, previous books, and more, visit her website at www.susanmaywarren.com

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: WebsiteFacebook | Instagram | Twitter 

David Curtis Warren is making his literary debut in these novels, and he’s never been more excited. He looks forward to creating more riveting stories with Susie and Jim, as well as on his own. He’s grateful for his co-writers, family, and faith, buoying him during the pandemic of 2020, and this writing and publishing process.

CONNECT WITH DAVID: 
Instagram

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Set in Stone and a $15 Amazon gift card!

Set in Stone JustRead Blog Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 10, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 17, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Secrets in the Mist ~ Review

Secrets in the Mist
Skyworld #1
By Morgan L. Busse

The Mist rules their world - for years it has been feared altering those touched by it into something horrific. The Touched are to be feared - no longer living yet walking carriers of the Mist.

Cass managed to avoid the Purge that took her parents, but life is hard scavenging to find enough to live on. But living further up the mountain is not for the likes of her as she has been reminded on more than one occasion. But Cass longs for something more than mere existence which she gets when she gets caught aboard the airship Daedalus. Offered a job as a diver Cass has a decision to make - one that would raise her above the clouds and offer her hope. But this choice comes with great danger as she would go into the Mist and face the unknown dangers that lurk within it.

The Mist has given the Five Families that rule from sky islands great power over all who live on the lands beneath. Lands that have limited space and even fewer resources.  When the population of the lowest grows they order the Purge to slow the demand on resources and doom those cast into the Mist of an existence as one of the Touched.

Theodore Winchester wants to stop the Mist. But no one wants to help him prove that the Mist can be stopped or altered. When his questions threaten the very foundations of his world he has to decide what he will do. Delve for answers that may cost him his life? Or close off his mind and embrace a life of power and privilege instead?

When long held secrets are revealed a course is set and the fate of the world and humanity hangs in the balance. 

If you are a fan of Dystopian or Steampunk fiction you will have to read Secrets in the Mist as it combines the best of both for a page-turning experience you don't want to miss. And as this is the open book of a new series you'll want, no you'll need to be ready for when book 2 releases. This is one of those can't-put-it-down books and believe me putting it down is not easy. You will want to stay up all night reading it and the sleep depravation is well worth it! The characters, the setting, pacing - everything is a perfect world to get lost in - but beware the Mist...

I was provided a complimentary pre-release copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book:
What’s lurking in the Mist is the least of their worries…

In a world where humanity lives in the sky to escape a deadly mist below, Cass’s only goal is survival. That is, until she finds a job on the airship Daedalus as a diver. Now she explores ruined cities, looking for treasure and people’s lost heirlooms until a young man hires her to find the impossible: a way to eradicate the Mist.

Theodore Winchester is a member of one of the Five Families that rule the skies. Following in his father’s footsteps, he searches for the source of the Mist and hopes to stop the purges used to control overpopulation. But what he finds are horrifying secrets and lethal ambition. If he continues his quest, it could mean his own death.

The Mist is rising and soon the world will be enveloped in its deadly embrace, turning what's left of humanity into the undead.

8.08.2021

Written in Ink ~ Review

Written in Ink
The Rose Tattoo trilogy#2
By Sara Davison

He's given fifteen years of his life, of his love to Renee Dawson when she suddenly calls an end to everything. His hopes and dreams of a forever with her are shattered. She claims that Cash is a distraction she doesn't need in the pursuit of her career, but the truth is something that will shatter him even more.

Renee has spent her life trying to prove she isn't the failure her father has always made her feel like. She has never had a moment of doubt about Cash McCall's love but she knows when he learns the truth his feelings will change. But the decision is hers alone to make and make it she will. 

But Renee's decision leads directly her into the path of extremists who will do whatever it takes to silence any and all who could stand in the way of their goals. After all, what's one more death when compared to the millions of innocents who have paid the price.

Now I will admit that this book covered several topics I wasn't expecting from the book description - abortion, pro-life extremists, and premarital sex. Now the topics were presented in a sensitive and thoughtful manner as various characters deal with these issues from differing perspectives. Though not what I was expecting and possibly not one I would have picked up if I had known, it was well written. The characters came across as believable and as people, one could have day-to-day interactions with. This is the second book in the Rose Tattoo Trilogy and it was able to be read as a standalone book. I have not read the previous book and other than some references to events that may have occurred in that book it was easy to follow the story from beginning to end. Overall an excellent and well-presented book. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion - All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:
Series: The Rose Tattoo Trilogy #2
Publisher: Independently Published / The Mosaic Collection
Release Date: August 4, 2021
Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense

Everything he has built his life and future on has been torn away.

Cash McCall has loved Dr. Renee Dawson for half his life. Although they’ve talked about a future together, she has never believed it was the right time for them to get engaged. Now she has ended their relationship, and he has no idea why.

Everything Renee worked so hard for is in jeopardy. One agonizing decision has changed everything, and she has been forced to shatter the heart of the man she loves. And her own.

The extremist militant group The Arm is on a mission. Its leader doesn’t care how many innocent lives are lost in the pursuit of the group’s end goal, and Renee has seen something she was not supposed to see.

If Cash can’t get to her in time, Renee could end up in the crosshairs of the terrorists, and he may lose her—and any chance at the life he’d always envisioned—forever.

8.06.2021

A Future to Fight For ~ Review

A Future to Fight For
By Mindy Obenhaus
Publisher Love Inspired
Paisley Wainwright's life came crashing down around her five years ago and now she has a chance to rekindle her dreams with Renwick Castle. There is just one tiny catch. Well, maybe not so tiny - Crockett Devereaux is anything but tiny. And she has to share her dream with Crockett the man who has thwarted all her efforts in anything, but unless they can work together neither of their dreams will come true.
After his now ex-wife left their family, Crockett's trust in women is about as low as it can get and Paisley Wainwright is no exception. But to bring the dream, his grandfather had, to life, he'll have to work with her. But can two dreams become one? Only time will tell...
This is a sweet read with moments of heartache as both Paisley and Crockett deal with the past that has most definitely left its mark on their lives. Will trusting their dreams with each other lead to something more? I'll never tell but this is A Bliss, Texas Romance. Settle down in your favorite reading cozy and prepare your favorite cup of tea or coffee and enjoy an escape to Texas.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion - All thoughts expressed are my own.


Purchase Link Amazon 

About the Book:

All their dreams will come true… if they can work together.

Widow Paisley Wainwright’s so close to taking her Texas event-planning business to the next level by turning Renwick Castle into a wedding venue. Only one thing stands in the way: her longtime rival, Crockett Devereaux, who wants the building to become a museum. When the building’s owners insist they collaborate to implement both plans, can Paisley and Crockett put their differences aside…and fight for their dreams together?

8.05.2021

Betrayed ~ Review

Betrayed
The Gifted #2
By Lisa T. Bergren

Now I will start off by saying before you read this book you must read Begotten, the first book in the series. This book starts where the Begotten leaves off.

The Gifted have fled their place of refuge as the enemy closed in around them. But fleeing won't stop those who seek to control them and the gifts they have been blessed with. 

Betrayed is an interesting read and as the story progresses it continues to hold one's attention as the Gifted seek to know and do what they are meant to.  If you are looking for a read that has a spiritual aspect to it while offering a well-written and engaging story you have found it in this book and series. "'As it shows in the illuminations,' Daria said. 'The dragon will hunt the peacock.'" This quote taken from the latter few pages of the book gives one a glimpse in what is to come in the final book of the series.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:
They have gathered.
And now others gather against them...

An illuminated letter, long buried by the Church—prophesying a fellowship of men and women possessing powerful spiritual gifts—is the catalyst for a profound war that will bring either a new age of enlightenment or a darkness the world has never before seen. As the Gifted gather, gain strength and follow God's clues, their enemies grow determined to control them.

Watching the Gifted from afar is Cardinal Boeri, who wants to use the blessed power of the Gifted to secure his own place in the hierarchy of the Church, while the duke of Venezia has reasons of his own to seize control. But the greatest menace is Lord Abramo Amidei, driven to turn the healer, Daria d'Angelo, to his own fold—or to destroy her. And as he schemes to tear apart the fabric of her faith by preying upon those she loves, Amidei knows that together the Gifted are undeniably strong and growing stronger. But if he can succeed in dividing them, the Gifted—and then the world—will be his.

8.04.2021

Then Came You ~ Review with Giveaway

Then Came You JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for
Then Came You by Rachel D. Russell presented by Susan May Warren,

Then Came You
Then Came You
Deep Haven Collection #4

By Rachel D. Russell
presented by Susan May Warren

A forced "vacation" is the last thing, Detective Daniel "Boone" Buckam wants and ordered to spend it in Deep Haven is almost more than he can stand. But his R&R takes a most unexpected and rather pleasant turn when Vivien Calhoun comes into his life.

Vivien needs a stand-in boyfriend to counter her half-sister's venomous disposition. But she gets more than that when she manages to get them caught up in a parade. After Boone's rescue, Vivie determines that she will help Boone out but trouble seems determined to mess up her carefully laid plans.

But one can't tell the heart how to behave and who to like. But Vivien knows she is a mess and not at all who Boone needs in his life, especially if he plans on returning home and becoming Chief of Police. 

Then Came You is a fun addition to the world of Deep Haven that readers have come to know and love over the years. This is a chance for two characters to find healing and perhaps love in the process. And there is a mystery with a touch of danger running through the story, as well, perfect for Boone to put his detective skills to work. I really love this newest addition to Deep Haven and love how past characters are present and integral parts of the story. Now this book is part of a series but it is able to be enjoyed as a complete story on its own, you just won't have all the back story.  So sit back and get ready to enjoy a perfect summer read.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Then Came You
Series: Deep Haven Collection #4
Author: Rachel D. Russell presented by Susan May Warren
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing
Release Date: July 6, 2021
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

He doesn’t need any trouble. She can’t seem to escape it.

Detective Daniel “Boone” Buckam is more than burned out. After fourteen stellar years on the job, one bad judgment call—and, fine, a whole lot of cynicism—has forced him into a mandatory vacation in Deep Haven. If he can get his head on straight, there’s a job as Police Chief waiting for him back in his Minneapolis suburb. And then, he meets Vivien. 

Actress Vivien Calhoun isn’t really a drama queen. Sure, she gets swept up in the emotions of life—but please, she’s an actress. Or, um, was until a stalker made her flee the bright lights of Broadway. Now, she’s passionate about directing her local theater production. But when she accidentally ropes an uptight police detective on vacation into her cast, she can’t help but wonder if he might be the leading man she’s always longed for. 

Boone can’t help but like Vivien. He might even have a type—vivacious and bubbly, with a penchant for attracting danger. He can smell trouble even if she can’t, and is pretty sure her stalker has hunted her all the way to Deep Haven. He’ll have to stay by her side—even if it means being in her silly play—to keep her safe. But Vivien is more than he expected as she helps him discover a part of him he’s locked away…the part that said he could never love again. 

It’s summertime in Deep Haven, and the fun is heating up in this laugh-out-loud, charming story. 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & NobleBook Depository | IndieBoundChristianbook | BookBub

ALSO AVAILABLE


ABOUT THE AUTHORS

 SMW & Rachel Russell

Susan May Warren is the USA Today best-selling novelist of 80 books. With more than 1.5 million books in print, she is beloved by reviewers and readers around the world. Visit Susan at www.susanmaywarren.com.

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | FacebookInstagram | Twitter

Rachel D. Russell is a member of Oregon Christian Writers and My Book Therapy’s Novel Academy, and is a regular contributor to the Learn How to Write a Novel blog. The mother of two teenagers, she often interrogates her husband on his own military and law enforcement experience to craft believable heroes in uniform. The rest of her time is spent cantering her horse down the Oregon trails. Visit Rachel at www.racheldrussell.com.

CONNECT WITH RACHEL: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter 

Merging the creative energies of best-selling authors Susan May Warren and Lindsay Harrel, Sunrise Publishing is the matchmaker for established authors who want to build on their current success for future growth and aspiring authors looking to break out, build an audience, and hone their writing skills. 


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $15 Amazon gift card + 3 Then Came You ebooks (one ebook for the winner and two to give to friends)!

Then Came You JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 3, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 10, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.