Review: The Deadly Shallows

The Deadly Shallows by Dani Pettrey
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

I delayed reading Deadly Shallows, not because I knew I wouldn’t like it, but because I knew I would and if I am done, then my time with the coastal guardians has ended.

The author’s books always take me on a suspenseful, action packed story which will keep me flipping pages and holding my breath, but more than that, she introduced me to a new group of friends who become like family.

This story will have loads of readers swooning over the leader who we all came to love in book one and finally get to see what hides behind that protective shield.

Sad to have this series ending, but I know I will also love what will come from this author in the future.

Review book 1: The Killing Tide

Review: book 2: The Crushing Depths

Review: Novella - The Shifting Tides


View all my reviews

About the book:

Coast Guard Flight Medic Brooke Kesler is ecstatic to watch her friend and mentee graduate from medic A-school, but her elation turns to anguish when men in ski masks open fire on the crowd.

CGIS Agent Noah Rowley is rocked to the core when he learns of a mass shooting raging on his Coast Guard base. Still, the shock is nothing compared to the heart-wrenching fear when he learns the woman he loves is at the graduation. Fortunately, his team rapidly ends the shooting melee, and Noah discovers Brooke is still alive. Once assured she's okay, he quickly turns to learning who is behind the attack.

Little do Brooke and Noah know that the shooting is part of a master plot, and that Brooke has overheard something that holds the key to exposing the mastermind's identity. Determined not to be caught, the cunning villain focuses on taking out Brooke and, if need be, those who would protect her. With targets on their backs, Brooke and Noah must race to find the killer before he strikes again.

Bestselling author Dani Pettrey again delivers a fast-paced story in an acclaimed style readers have come to love: full of snappy dialogue, thrilling adventure romance, and unexpected plot twists.

About the author:

Praised by New York Times best-selling author Dee Henderson as “a name to look for in romantic

suspense,” Dani Pettrey has sold more than half a million copies of her novels to readers eagerly awaiting the next release. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance. Her novels stand out for their “wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters” (Publishers Weekly), “gripping storyline[s],” (RT Book Reviews), and “sizzling undercurrent of romance” (USA Today).

Her Alaskan Courage series and Chesapeake Valor series have received praise from readers and critics alike and spent multiple months topping the CBA bestseller lists. Dani has also been honored with multiple awards, including the Daphne du Maurier Award, two HOLT Medallions, a Christy Award finalist, two National Readers’ Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, and Christian Retailing’s Best Award.

From her early years eagerly reading Nancy Drew mysteries, to paging through Agatha Christie novels or watching on-the-edge-of-her-seat adventure movies, Dani has always enjoyed mystery and suspense. She considers herself blessed to be able to write the kind of stories she loves—full of plot twists and peril, love, and longing for hope and redemption. Her greatest joy as an author is sharing the stories God lays on her heart. She researches murder and mayhem from her home in Maryland, where she lives with her husband. Their two daughters, a son-in-law, and two adorable grandsons also reside in Maryland. For more information about her novels, visit danipettrey.com.

Review: An Unconventional Lady

An Unconventional Lady by Sarah E. Ladd
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

The title of this book, an unconventional lady, stayed true to the story within these pages.

From the first page the story pulled me in for a gripping death and the after effects for the daughter who was left behind. Growing up in a family who loved to investigate and learn, it was no surprise that Ella would also grow up with this drive.

Gabriel’s investigative side of his job added mystery and danger to the story. I enjoyed investigating the truth with him and seeing how everything was connected.

The connection between Gabriel and Ella was sweet and I was hoping that the plans for Ella’s future would turn out differently than what her father planned.

It was sad to see how easily people were manipulated when they heard what they wanted to hear. But at the end, the light will shine through the darkness.

Sarah E Ladd is becoming a favourite name in my list of authors in the recency-romance-with-a-mystery-to-solve genre.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*


View all my reviews

About the book:

One woman works to expose a scientific fraud while also finding love in the latest sweet Regency romance by Sarah Ladd. Perfect for fans of Julie Klassen, An Unconventional Lady delivers what Publishers Weekly calls Ladd's "pitch-perfect blend of suspense and sweetness" (The Cloverton Charade).

She faces the worst ultimatum possible for a woman--marry a man she detests or lose the future she's always imagined.

Charming and headstrong, Ella Wilde always knew she was different than other women. Thanks to her unorthodox upbringing as the daughter of Keatley Hall School for Young Men's headmaster, Ella has long dreamed of opening a school for girls that would meet the needs of inquisitive, brilliant, unconventional young women just like her--girls who longed for the education exclusively reserved for boys. But there's just one Unless she marries before her father dies, Keatley Hall will pass into the hands of a distant cousin. In that case, Ella will be left destitute, and at this point her only option appears to be an undesirable marriage.

Ella's family had long been proponents of phrenology, the belief that an individual's personality and dispositions were predetermined by the shape of their head. Shortly before her death, however, Ella's mother's views on phrenology changed, and she endeavored to expose phrenology as nothing more than a fraudulent parlor trick. Consequently, she earned the wrath of phrenologist community, who called her "unstable," "bizarre," even "dangerous"--and branded her daughter the same.

Now, renowned phrenologist Thomas Bauer is about to arrive at Keatley Hall to speak at the Natural Philosophers' Society gathering, and Ella embraces the opportunity to clear her mother's name--and her own--once and for all. And her partner in crime? None other than her childhood friend Gabriel Rowe, who's grown into an ambitious, handsome London solicitor.

Gabriel has his own scores to settle, and when he learns that Thomas Bauer is visiting Keatley Hall, he jumps at the chance to prove himself and right past wrongs. As he is drawn deeper into the unusual happenings, it's clear that he and Ella must work together if they want to unmask the truth. Over time, Gabriel's attraction to Ella's beauty and wit becomes impossible to ignore, and as the lines between professionalism and passion blur, they both must decide what they're willing to risk for happiness.

About the author:

I would love to connect with you on Facebook and talk about all things Regency! Be sure to like my page for updates: http://www.facebook.com/SarahLaddAuthor

Review: The Bird of Bedford Manor

The Bird of Bedford Manor by Michelle Griep
My rating:💛💛💛💛
“She smelled of the air just before a rain, hinting at storms and life and promise.”

Michelle Griep penned another regency mystery which grabbed and held my attention with her beautiful descriptive writing, interesting characters and mystery to solve.

Juliet grabbed my heartstrings from the start with her fighting spirit and doing what she needed to survive. Even when she found herself in a destitute situation, she fought to survive. Henry’s battle to prove to himself that he can protect and solve problems created high expectations, stress and anxiety.

I loved the scene between Henry and his father and how a proper conversation eased the weight on his shoulders.

There was a diversified cast of characters which all brought their own uniqueness and suspicions to the story. I did suspect the person behind everything, but enjoyed the journey to see how Juliet had to climb to the top for the person behind everything had to be captured.

This story will entertain readers while making one remember to look deeper than face value and to dig deeper.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*


View all my reviews

About the book:

Bedfordshire, England, 1820: Ruined by the sins of her father, Juliet Finch is cast into a life of self-reliance. Survival is a harsh taskmaster, but she is a quick learner and excels at tracking and snaring wild game to feed herself. Juliet embraces her new identity until the day Henry Russell catches her poaching on his land--a crime punishable by death. Henry, however, has other offenses on his mind: namely, the troublesome stalker who's making a misery of his sister's life. To try to put a stop to her torment, Henry charges Juliet with tracking the elusive villain so he can be brought to justice. Using her skills, Juliet hunts down the rogue. . .but may just become the prey herself.
Reader favorite Michelle Griep has penned yet another masterpiece with this page-turning adventure that has it all:

swoon-worthy romance
clever turn-of-phrase
colorfully memorable characters
charming British setting

About the author:

I hear voices. Loud. Incessant. And very real. Which basically gives me two options: choke back massive

amounts of Prozac or write fiction. I chose the latter. Way cheaper. I've been writing since I discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. I seek to glorify God in all that I write...except for that graffiti phase I went through as a teenager. Oops. Did I say that out loud?

Review: The Caregiver at Wounded Knee

The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debby Lee
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

This historical event is something I did not know until I read this book.

The struggle of the natives to fit in with the “new normal” but still keep their culture and traditions were difficult. It made me wonder why we can’t all work together to a new future but still embrace and respect everyone’s differences which makes us unique.

This story had me engaged. I planned to read 2 hours a day but ended up finishing it over two days.

It was a heartbreaking event and one of those things which could have been prevented if someone just took the time to learn about each other’s beliefs and traditions instead of forcing everyone to act the same.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*


View all my reviews

About the book:

Past and Present Collide on the Railway
 
When life seems weighed down by challenges, there are always pillars of enduring hope and love to be discovered.

Lily Mae Dodge flees Wyoming by night to find her mother, who sent her west on an orphan train ten years ago. After she's arrested in Chicago, help comes from a man with a rare vision impairment whom she only just met on a train. Francis Basnett is a roustabout for the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace circus, where he helps Lily gain employment. Their friendship grows into more, and it seems Lily is closer than ever to finding her mother. . .until the night a rogue troop train slams into the stalled circus train, killing dozens and splintering hope.
 
More from the Enduring Hope
The Angel of Second Street by Barbara Tifft Blakey
The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly J. Goshorn
The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debby Lee

Review: Atlas

Atlas by Ronie Kendig
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

Reading Atlas was like spending time with loved ones who you haven’t seen for a while.

When I learned that the author is bringing out a series featuring the children of the Nightshade team in the Discarded Hero series, I was excited and knew I wanted to read the series ASAP.
And the interaction between Atlas and the members of the Nightshade team reminded me why the author won my heart with this group of heroes.

I enjoyed the action and suspense and seeing how old and new worked together. The danger element was never ending and Atlas’s desire and struggle to measure up to a legacy believable.
The banter between team members I have come to love in the author’s books was also overflowing in this story.

There is a thread which was mentioned in the beginning of the book but not solved, which I am expecting will wrap up at the end of the series.

If you love military thrillers and fell in love with the Discarded heroes, you will enjoy this book as well.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*


View all my reviews

About the book:

Some hearts are worth fighting for—even when the battle comes home.

Olympic sharpshooter McKenna Neeley thought her biggest challenge was living up to her legendary father's legacy as Nightshade's team sniper. But working as a junior Consular Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Armenia, she's about to face her most perilous mission yet—and it has nothing to do with diplomacy.

When a high-stakes dinner party brings Dante Riddell back into her life, McKenna's carefully ordered world tilts off its axis. The brooding security specialist from Omen Tactical Group was her childhood crush, but now he's all grown up—and guarding secrets as closely as he guards his VIP clients.

Despite finally being claimed by his father as a teen, Dante has spent his life believing he isn’t worthy of the Nightshade legacy. When his duty collides with McKenna's consular work sparks fly and keeping their distance becomes impossible. She's everything he remembers and more—brilliant, compassionate, and dangerously distracting. His job is complete the mission and walk away before his damaged heart gets involved.

But when a deadly enemy disrupts peace talks, simple plans shatter like glass.

Trapped together in a web of international intrigue, McKenna and Dante must trust each other—and God’s plan—forging a love that's been years in the making. Because sometimes the greatest battles aren't fought with weapons, but with faith, forgiveness, and the courage to believe in second chances.

Can two wounded hearts find healing in each other's arms, or will the shadows of their past destroy their chance at forever?

"A beautiful blend of faith, heart-pounding suspense, and swoon-worthy romance. This book touched my soul!" — Susan May Warren, USA Today bestselling author

Discarded Scions
Book 1: Atlas
Book 2: Apollo
Book 3: Achilles

About the author:

An Army brat, Ronie Kendig grew up in the classic military family, with her father often TDY and her mother holding down the proverbial fort. Their family moved often, which left Ronie attending six schools by the time she’d entered fourth grade. Her respite and “friends” during this time were the characters she created.

It was no surprise when she married a military veteran—her real-life hero—in June 1990 and recently celebrated their 30th Anniversary. Despite the craziness of life, Ronie finds balance and peace with her faith, family, retired military working dog VVolt N629, and Benning the Stealth Golden a short train ride from New York City.

Ronie has a deep love and passion for people, which is why she earned a degree in Psychology from Liberty University. Ronie speaks and teaches across the country and mentors other writers.

Ronie Kendig's website

Review: The Other Side of Goodbye

The Other Side of Goodbye by Heidi McCahan
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

With this story, readers will be taken on the ups and downs of surviving loss and heartbreak and trying to move on and hope for a happy future.

I've met Chase in the novella and understood and felt Tisha’s loss and grief. In her story we could see that everyone has their own pace of letting go and moving forward. I adored her mother-in-law and how she supported Tisha but wanted her to step into God’s future of happiness.

Ethan has to find his way as a single parent and I loved seeing how he grew in this.

Sadie and Brody were adorable but I feel the author pinned their characters down very well. Children who had to deal with the loss of a parent.

This story will take readers on the truest journey of how to let go but still remember and to trust that God has still has a happy future planned.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

View all my reviews

About the book:

Where broken hearts come to heal.

"Just because you lost Chase doesn't mean you have to shut me out... “

Sometimes the greatest love stories begin with the deepest losses.

When widow Tisha Binford arrives in Redemption, Alaska with her seven-year-old daughter Sadie, she's carrying more than just their belongings—she's carrying the weight of her late husband's memory and the hope of giving Sadie a connection to the father she barely knew. Working at her in-laws' café and perfecting her pie recipes, Tisha believes she's building a quiet, safe life in this small coastal town.

But Redemption has other plans.

Ethan McGuire, a recently retired Coast Guard pilot, has returned home with his own heavy burden—raising his eight-year-old son Brody alone after losing his wife to cancer. Determined to be the father Brody needs, Ethan thinks he has his future mapped help with the family resort, support his struggling son, and keep his heart carefully guarded.

When a school conflict brings their children together as unlikely friends, Tisha and Ethan find themselves drawn into each other's orbits. But moving forward means confronting painful Can you honor the past while embracing the future? How do you teach children to love again when your own heart is still learning?

As Redemption faces an unexpected natural disaster, both families must discover that sometimes the other side of goodbye isn't an ending—it's the beginning of something beautiful, messy, and worth fighting for.

A heartwarming story about second chances, blended families, and the courage to love again, set against the stunning backdrop of small-town Alaska.
________________________________________
Perfect for readers who
• Small-town romance with heart
• Stories of healing and hope
• Complex family dynamics
• Alaskan settings
• Characters who feel like real people facing real challenges

Welcome to Redemption, Alaska
Book 1: The Other Side of Goodbye
Book 2: The Long Way Back to You
Book 3: The Last Mile Between Us
Book 4: The Hidden Light of Her

About the author:

Heidi McCahan writes uplifting inspirational romance novels set in small towns. She is a bestselling author of several books, including Her Alaskan Family and A Baby in Alaska. A perfect day for Heidi includes a huge cup of good coffee, dark chocolate, and reading stories with happy endings. She makes her home in North Carolina with her handsome husband, three amazing boys, and the world’s greatest Goldendoodle. Heidi is represented by Steve Laube of The Steve Laube Agency. A Winter of Sweet Secrets, Heidi’s next novel with Harlequin Love Inspired, releases on September 30, 2025.

Review: The Lies We Trade

The Lies We Trade by Kristine Delano
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

This debut was well written and will keep readers engaged, and up late at night trying to find out what is going on and who is behind everything.

The premise of the story is about the stock market. The author did a great job of explaining the terms she used with basic everyday examples.

Though I was pulled in and totally committed to find out the truth, there was a lot happening in the story with lota of detail and characters which made the book feel a bit too busy.

However, the main character was driven but flawed and her relationship troubles added a realistic element to the story.

The author also did a great job of giving readers a little bit of leads, but then throwing them off with some twists and turns.

This debut thriller will be a great addition to the TBR of readers who are looking for clean but engaging thriller.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

View all my reviews

About the book:

A high-powered Wall Street career, a beautiful family in a quiet suburban neighborhood—she seems to have everything. Which means she has everything to lose.

Meredith Hansel should be having the best week of her life. After establishing herself as a portfolio manager at a prestigious Wall Street firm, she’s in the national spotlight for the innovative funds she created. But as Meredith prepares to celebrate, the plates she’s kept spinning for years begin to Her strained marriage reaches a breaking point. Her conscientious teenage daughter acts out under mysterious pressures. Someone vandalizes her home with disturbing graffiti. And Betsey, her most trusted ally at the financial firm, goes rogue, and Meredith is forced to sign a restraining order against her.

Then her worlds collide when she receives a thumb drive and a cryptic note from Betsey threatening to reveal a secret that could have devastating effects on Meredith’s family . . . unless she can figure out what Betsey wants and deliver it in time.

As Meredith begins to dig into the data, however, she begins to suspect that it’s no coincidence her life is crumbling. That maybe what’s happening to her family is connected to what’s boiling beneath the surface at her investment company. Soon Meredith realizes there’s only one way to avoid taking the fall, and it all hinges on Betsey’s true motives. Was she really threatening Meredith or trying to warn her?

Great for fans of Colleen Coble, Laura Dave, Dani Pettrey, and Lisa ScottolineClean, high-stakes women’s domestic suspense with workplace secrets and family dramaA stand-alone Wall Street thriller. Includes discussion questions for book clubs.