Dangerous Illusions ~ Review

Dangerous Illusions
Code of Honor #1
By Irene Hannon

When Trish Bailey's life starts to overwhelm her she starts making mistakes. But when one mistake leads to a tragedy Trish's life seems to close in around her. And then when her actions come under police scrutiny Trish can't believe that she could be charged with the murder of a loved one. Even worse is having to live with the knowledge that her error cost a life.

Called to the scene of an unexpected death, Detective Colin Flynn is tasked with determining whether or not Trish Bailey made a mistake or a deliberate decision in the death of her mother.

But something even more sinister is in play and all too soon more than one life is in danger. As Colin, with the help of Mac McGregor, works through the mounting evidence and the ever-growing list of questions he finds himself drawn to Trish.

Irene Hannon has debuted a new series with Dangerous Illusions and fans will love that she has again placed the story in the St. Louis area. There is a definite psychological element at play in this one and as to the whodunit, this is a real WOW. If this book is any indication this series will be real page-turners that will keep the reader up into the wee hours of the night.   

If you love mystery with a twist give this book a try!


About the Book:
Trish Bailey is on overload trying to deal with a demanding job, an ailing mother, and a healing heart. When a series of unsettling memory lapses leads to a tragic death--and puts Trish under police scrutiny--her world is once again thrown into turmoil.

Detective Colin Flynn isn't certain what to think of the facts he uncovers during his investigation. Did Trish simply make a terrible mistake or is there more to the case than meets the eye? As he searches for answers, disturbing information begins to emerge--and if the forces at work are as evil as he suspects, the situation isn't just dangerous . . . it's deadly.Bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon will capture your imagination with a mind-bending story that will have you doubling back to retrace your steps--and figure out what you missed! 

The Austen Escape ~ Review

The Austen Escape
By Katherine Reay

Mary Davies has given in to her best friend's persuasion and has most reluctantly agreed to a 2-week stay in Bath living the life of a character from one of Jane Austen's books. Isabel Dwyer has determined that immersing herself in Jane Austen's Bath is the only way to finish her dissertation and her English doctoral degree and Mary just has to go with.

With all the pressures at work, Mary is both reluctant and relieved. As an engineer, she is constantly developing new technology at WATT. But change has been creeping in and creativity is at a low and Mary wonders if she will have a job to return to. And then there is Nathan, the consultant who has been working with WATT. Mary hopes to have something more than a working relationship with Nathan, but Mary being Mary isn't going to make any ripples to change what is.

Bath is everything Austen and yes there are dresses and gowns which Mary is expected to wear. Isabel is in Austen paradise and LOVING every moment of it. But when something happens Isabel forgets everything except Regency living and Mary. Unfortunately for Mary, she is not an Austen aficionado - she crash-coursed just days before and is having to wing it with Isabel while monitoring the situation. But when secrets that Isabel has been keeping come to light while Isabel is not in the present Mary has to come to terms with just who Isabel is.

The Austen Escape is another interesting offering from Katherine Reay. This is the fifth book in which the author uses classic literature to give modern settings a unique twist. The characters all have a personality quirk that leaves them feeling as if they are not enough in and of themselves. In this book it is interesting how the distant past, the not some distant past and the present all come together so that the main characters are forced to confront what has been holding them back, to face their deficiencies and grow from there.

I really enjoy Katherine Reay's writing her characters are engaging and I really enjoy the tidbits of Austen found scattered throughout this newest book. These books are all standalone so no need to fear you'll be left standing in the dark with no clue as to what is going on. This would make an excellent book club selection and believe me, there would be plenty to discuss.

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



About the Book:

Falling into the past

will change their

futures forever.

Mary Davies finds safety in her ordered and productive life. Working as an engineer, she genuinely enjoys her job and her colleagues – particularly a certain adorable and intelligent consultant. But something is missing. When Mary’s estranged childhood friend, Isabel Dwyer offers her a two-week stay in a gorgeous manor house in England, she reluctantly agrees in hopes that the holiday will shake up her quiet life in just the right ways.

But Mary gets more than she bargained for when Isabel loses her memory and fully believes she lives in Jane Austen’s Bath. While Isabel rests and delights in the leisure of a Regency lady, attended by the other costume-clad guests, Mary uncovers startling truths about their shared past, who Isabel was, who she seems to be, and the man who now stands between them.

Outings are undertaken, misunderstandings play out, and dancing ensues as this company of clever, well-informed people, who have a great deal of conversation, work out their lives and hearts.

Blue Ridge Sunrise ~ Review

Blue Ridge Sunrise
Blue Ridge Romance #1
By Denise Hunter

Five years ago Zoe Collins made a decision that she has had to live - one that took her away from her family and Copper Creek. But when Granny dies unexpectedly Zoe is left feeling the loss in ways she never expected. But Granny knew that Zoe needed to return to the place that she once called home and leaving the peach orchard that Zoe used to love working on to her just might be what is needed to bring her home for good.

But returning to Copper Creek means facing her past and the pain that she left behind and facing Cruz Huntley once again. And then there is Gracie the daughter that no one in Copper Creek has ever met. Can her daughter help her reconnect with her brother and her father or will this be yet another wedge to drive them further apart?

But Zoe is determined to keep the legacy left to her regardless of pressure from her boyfriend, Kyle, to sell. But with loans to pay back and a not too great growing season can she hope to hold the orchard? When she is offered a possibility to make a greater profit on her harvest Zoe sees hope for her future, but first, she must confront the secret that drove her from home.

Now Blue Ridge Sunrise as a title has such a beautiful sound to it and one would expect a story equal to such a title. Zoe is her own worst enemy, yes her dad has problems with her, but she is (or was) someone who decided what she wanted and when she wanted it. In fact, Zoe's very stubbornness is what finds her in her current situation separated from friends and family and kowtowing to a real jerk of a boyfriend. Worse she comes home and continues keeping secrets that are a further wedge in her already fragile relationships. And Zoe is somewhat manipulative, disregarding the opinion of others, and determined to do things her way. I can't say I feel too much empathy for Zoe, she more than anything annoys me. Cruz is okay, but he is too easily manipulated by Zoe. Yes, both of them are young but time doesn't seem to mature them too much in the five years between Zoe's escape and return. I think, character-wise, I prefer Zoe's brother Brady, who I hope gets a bigger role in the next book.

Don't get me wrong the book isn't bad, it's just that the two main characters just really annoy me with their hard-headedness. A whole lotta trouble could have been avoided if they could have talked and listened. And did I mention I love the cover - I would love to step into said orchard and pick a few. Now one thing this book lacks is reference to God or faith so if you are looking for Christian fiction (as the Library of Congress cataloging data states) you will be disappointed in this Thomas Nelson offering.

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


About the Book:
Former free spirit Zoe Collins swore she’d never again set foot in Copper Creek or speak to the man who broke her heart. But return she must when her beloved Granny dies, leaving the family legacy to Zoe—a peach orchard nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

When Zoe returns home with her daughter and boyfriend Kyle, she finds that she’s the only person in town who doesn’t expect her to give up the life she’s established far away from Copper Creek. Everyone believes she was born to run the orchard, but how can she make it her home after so many years?

Cruz Huntley never quite got over his first love, Zoe Collins, the little sister of his best friend Brady. Not when she cheated on him during their “break,” not when she took off to parts unknown with good-for-nothing Kyle Jenkins, and not even now—five years later.

As life-changing decisions and a history with Cruz hang over Zoe’s head, tensions rise between her and Kyle. Even as she comes to terms with the shifting relationships in her life, Zoe still isn’t sure if she can remain in Copper Creek with her new responsibilities . . . and her first love. 

Blind Spot ~ Review

Blind Spot 
Chesapeake Valor #3
By Dani Pettrey

Declan Gray is determined to track down and stop the terrorist threat that he knows is here. There's just one problem, someone is seemingly a step ahead of him thwarting his efforts. When he is partnered with Tanner Shaw his investigation is about to get a whole lot more interesting and dangerous.

Going back to the beginning seems to be their best chance at discovering when and where the attack is going to occur. Soon the two find themselves investigating Steven Burke's murder and his unauthorized investigation.

Meanwhile, Parker, Avery, Griffin, Finley, and Kate are helping out an old friend who is in need of their special skills. But soon their investigation takes a drastic change when murder comes into play.  This is one annual weekend retreat that they'll wish had been canceled.

When Declan's case becomes even more dangerous he needs to call on his friends, especially when the past comes calling. With time against them, and his heart caught up in this case, Declan needs to rely on those he trusts and the levelheadedness he is known for if he hopes to protect those he is sworn to protect.

Blind Spot is the third book in the Chesapeake Valor series, and for fans of Dani Pettrey, not the last. The action is almost none stop in this race against a growing terrorist threat. And for those who have been following the Luke thread that has been through the series, we are given a little more Luke story. And if you like a dramatic ending this one offers it in a big way.

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 Wrath is Coming. 

But They Don't Know Where--

Or When.

"The wrath is coming" were the final words that FBI agent Declan Grey heard the suicide bomber say. Now Declan is in the chase of his life--but isn't sure exactly what he's chasing after or when the threat will be unleashed on American soil. When his investigation's best clue leads him to a closed immigrant community, he turns to Tanner Shaw for assistance. She's sought justice for refugees and the displaced around the world, and if there's anyone who can help him, it's Tanner.

Tanner Shaw has joined the FBI as a crisis counselor . . . meaning she now has more opportunity to butt heads with Declan. As they work together to uncover the mounting threat, the tension between them also includes a spark she can't deny--and she's pretty sure Declan feels the same. But before anything more can develop, they find themselves in a race against time to stop the coming "wrath" that could cost thousands their lives.

The Space Between Words ~ Review

The Space Between Words
By Michele Phoenix

This book can be summed up in a single word ~ WOW. But a single word does not do this book justice. I've read Michele Phoenix's work in the past and, though it was well-written and the story good, it did not grab me the way this book did. This book, this story, is very moving.

The Space Between Words is a convergence of two stories, of two times, of two women, caught up in pain of hate and loss.

Adeline Baillard is living for her faith though it came at great cost ~ as a Huguenot Adeline is living a life persecuted by the French government. But her faith is the backbone of her life and for this she is willing to give her life.

Jessica is living in the present day, visiting France with her friends Patrick and Vonda. But when an attack occurs shattering Jessica's world and her sense of safety with it. Pushed to continue the trip that had been planned before the attack Jess finds an antique sewing box that holds a long-hidden secret that reveals part of Adeline's story.

Connecting to this young woman of conviction sets Jess on a journey to discover the fate of the Baillard family. But this journey may be just what Jess needs as she searches for the truth of the past and confronts the recent pain of her present.

This is a story not to be missed - just be sure to have a box of tissues nearby there are some especially moving scenes. (Yes, I admit it a couple of times I was moved to tears which does not happen often). I really liked the way the stories were told together. They were woven in such a way that it didn't feel forced. 

If you are looking for something different to read or are just a fan of fiction give The Space Between Words a try. It has a freshness to it that is interesting to explore and it doesn't shy away from the topics it is exploring. This would be an excellent book club selection if you are looking for a suggestion.

I was provided a complimentary review copy of this book by the Fiction Guild, a positive review was not expected, all opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:

"There were seconds, when I woke, when the world felt unshrouded. 

Then memory returned."

When Jessica regains consciousness in a French hospital on the day after the Paris attacks, all she can think of is fleeing the site of the horror she survived. But Patrick, the steadfast friend who hasn’t left her side, urges her to reconsider her decision. Worn down by his insistence, she reluctantly agrees to follow through with the trip they’d planned before the tragedy.

“The pages found you,” Patrick whispered.  

“Now you need to figure out what they’re trying to say.”

During a stop at a country flea market, Jessica finds a faded document concealed in an antique. As new friends help her to translate the archaic French, they uncover the story of Adeline Baillard, a young woman who lived centuries before—her faith condemned, her life endangered, her community decimated by the Huguenot persecution.

“I write for our descendants, for those who will 

not understand the cost of our survival.”

Determined to learn the Baillard family’s fate, Jessica retraces their flight from France to England, spurred on by a need she doesn’t understand.

Could this stranger who lived three hundred years 

before hold the key to Jessica’s survival?

The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey ~ Review

The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey
Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace #3
By Carolyn Miller

Clara DeLancey has had enough of the scandal and whisperings about her. But with her well-known pursuit of the Earl of Hawkesbury and the unfortunate state of her dowry, Miss DeLancey is the least desired woman of the Season. And when offered a friendship Clara accepts though it is hardly the thing to do and if her mother finds out what a-to-do that will follow.

But the friendship of the Kemsley sisters Mattie and Tessa is just the thing to help Clara get over her disappointments. And when she meets their brother Benjamin she is startled to discover that the two have met on a previous occasion, one that Clara can't but hope that he will be unaware of. But there is something about Ben that touches a part of Clara's heart that she had thought forever broken.

But Ben is just a lowly former captain and not the match her parents expect. Can Clara marry for love rather than fortune or will the dictates of society decide the future for her? With the friendship of Mattie and Tessa, Clara soon realizes just how shallow her past life was. Friendship just for the purpose of friendship and not social climbing is something Clara has never before had. And despite her parents' misgivings, Clara is determined to make decisions, not for society, but rather for the purpose of a true friendship and the good of her soul.

But the past isn't ready to let Clara go and the future of all whom she holds dear depend upon the decisions she is forced to make.

This is the third and final book in the Legacy of Grace series and it is interesting to see the characters from the two previous books and how they interact (or don't) with Clara and the DeLancey family. Reading the first two books isn't absolutely necessary to enjoy this book but it does provide some background to referenced past events so you will want to go back later to read them. This is a delightful book and series and one that one will want to revisit. The characters are ones you will want to share a cup of tea with so brew up a pot and have a shortbread cookie or two and sit back for an enjoyable afternoon reading.

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

About the Book:
Will a damaged reputation and desire for society's approval thwart the legacy of grace?

Tainted by scandal and forced to leave London for the quieter Brighton countryside, the Honorable Miss Clara DeLancey is a shadow of her former society self. She's lost the man she loved to another and, in a culture that has no patience for self-pity, is struggling with depression. A chance encounter brings her a healing friendship with the sisters of an injured naval captain. But Clara's society mama is appalled at the new company she's keeping.

Captain Benjamin Kemsley is not looking for a wife. But his gallant spirit won't let him ignore the penniless viscount's daughter--not when she so obviously needs assistance to keep moving forward from day to day. Can he protect his heart and still keep her safe?

When they're pushed into the highest echelons of society at the Prince Regent's Brighton Pavilion, this mismatched couple must decide if family honor is more important than their hopes. Can they right the wrongs of the past and find future happiness together--without finances, family support, or royal favor?

The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey is full of the captivating, flawed characters, fascinating historical details, and masterful writing that Carolyn Miller's fans have come to know in The Elusive MissEllison and The Captivating Lady Charlotte. If you love Lori Wick, Georgette Heyer, and other clean, wholesome Regency romance, you'll love this third book in the Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace series.

12 Days at Bleakly Manor ~ Review

12 Days at Bleakly Manor
Once Upon a Dickens Christmas #1
By Michelle Griep

What could be better than a Christmas story? Maybe a Victorian Christmas story? Even better is a Victorian Christmas mystery.

12 Days at Bleakly Manor takes the reader back to 1850 London where Clara Chapman is living on the charity of her Aunt Mitchell since Benjamin Lane left her waiting at the altar with no word of apology or explanation. For nine months Clara has been angry at Ben for his betrayal and the ruin he brought to her and her family.

For the last nine months, Benjamin Lane has been calling a dank cell within Millbank Prison home. Without warning his life as he knew it ended on the day he was to wed. Ben knew that he had been betrayed the only question in his mind was why and whom?

When both Clara and Ben receive mysterious invitations to attend the Twelve Days of Christmas at Bleakly Manor it seems someone has a cruel streak taunting them both with what could have been. But these two are not the only guests and their host remains anonymous and absent. Each guest is offered a special gift if they make it through the entirety of the twelve days. But when strange things begin happening the surety of completing the entire twelve days is soon in doubt. Could this be just random occurrences or is something more sinister at work?

One thing is certain if they live through this visit it will be a Christmas none will soon forget...
   
This is a fun read and very much a holiday mystery. If you want something a little different to read that is easy to get into this would be an excellent choice. Even more fun would be reading this book aloud, enjoying it with friends and family as you attempt to determine who did or didn't do what. This book promises to be the first in a delightful series that makes a definite nod to Charles Dickens that Dickens fans will love!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:
A mysterious invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home may bring danger...and love?

England, 1850: When Clara Chapman receives an intriguing invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home, she is hesitant yet feels compelled to attend—for if she remains the duration of the twelve-day celebration, she is promised a sum of five hundred pounds. That's enough money to bring her brother back from America and reinstate their stolen family fortune. But is she walking into danger? It appears so, especially when she comes face to face with one of the other guests—her former fiancé, Benjamin Lane.

Imprisoned unjustly, Ben wants revenge on the unknown person who stole his honor. When he’s given the chance to gain his freedom, he jumps at it—and is blindsided by the anger of the woman he left at the altar. 

Brought together under mysterious circumstances for the 12 Days of Christmas, Clara and Ben discover that what they’ve been striving for isn’t what ultimately matters. What matters most is what Christmas is all about . . . love.