Review: Night Fall

Night Fall by Susan Sleeman
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

“She was dying, and it was his fault.”

With a first sentence like this, this story grabbed me from the start. 10 out of 10 for the author on the early twist. This was an exciting ride and I just adored the Byrd brothers who started their own protection agency. I just have a soft spot for a family series and finding a group of brothers a favourite due to their banter and need to be a hero mindset.

Granted, all five brothers who owned the agency had law enforcement experience, and two of the brothers had also served in special ops in the military.

I enjoyed the mystery of finding Harper's stalker, though some of the things he send I would say is more of an adult nature and thus probably more applicable to the mature reader. I also enjoyed the seriousness of the protection detail and the way it was described helped me "see" everything. The author also threw in a few twists and turns which kept me turning pages. I loved meeting all the characters in the Cold Harbor and Truth Seekers series which was thrown in this story and now want to read those series as well.

I also enjoyed Harper's journey back to God and how Aiden nudged her in the right direction.

“Because I know you, and I know God. You both have the same goals. You won’t give up until you find Him again, and He won’t give up on you either. He’ll keep after you until He gets your attention.”

Aiden was a typical oldest brother - he took all the responsibility on him and had quite a stubborn streak. I enjoyed his brothers' teasing and how they pushed him to stop being cautious, thinking he knows best, and take a change.

I will definitely continue this series. The next book releases in Dec with the other 4 books to be released in 2021.

*I won a copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.*

View all my reviews

About the book:

She faces dangerous situations all the time…
Olympic downhill skier, Harper Young, knows what it’s like to look danger in the face. After all, she does it every time she races down a ski slope. She’s fine with that danger and even excels under the pressure, winning Olympic gold. And as a governor’s daughter, she’s familiar with receiving threats from the general public. But when a stalker turns his sights on Harper, she possesses zero skills to protect herself.

But she has no idea what lurks in the shadows.

Former Navy SEAL and ATF Agent, Aiden Byrd of Nighthawk Security is well versed in protection skills and knows the dangers she faces. Problem is, there’s an instant attraction between Aiden and Harper, and Aiden has to fight hard to remain professional. As the stalker grows bolder and tries to end Harper’s life, Aiden’s only hope in keeping her safe is to deny his feelings. Something that borders on impossible.

Amazon link to buy

Weekend Wrap-up: November 29

 

  

I'm joining Christian Bookshelf Reviews in this weekly weekend wrap-up idea which I first saw on her blog.

See which books I've read this week, currently reading and planning to read.

Books I've finished this week

I've only finished one book this week, but it was really good and the first book of new series I'm excited to continue:

Review to be posted soon!

Currently reading

I am really enjoying Keep Holding On!

What is next:

I'm not sure which one I will start next, but these are my options:

Have you read any of my to-read-next options?

Series discovery: Deep Haven

I just finished this amazing contemporary Deep Haven series, filled with characters who also face some every day struggles with regards to their place in this world and their identity in Christ.  Then on top of that, they face a few crazy adventures, from sabotage, fires to drug lords out for revenge.

I would highly recommend this series to fans of contemporary fiction and to readers like me who just love series upon series upon series.  The writing is also superb - the author has a talent to provide characters with real life issues and raw emotions and then suddenly throws the reader in a suspenseful ride through twists and turns.  I have never been bored in one of Susan May Warren's stories and I love how she includes so many spiritual and biblical wisdom in her stories.

This Deep Haven series is the first series which introduced us to the small vacation town, Deep Haven and the vast amount of great characters which we get to know and then get to revisit in following connected series, the Christiansen family series:

The Christiansen family series was also a favourite series I've read.  All the characters and their journey's were so real and raw.  It was also a beautiful story of how, even though your parents might have a great legacy of faith, children still need to find their own way in their walk with God.

AND

If you still did not have enough of Deep Haven, and believe me you won't, there is a WHOLE NEW DEEP HAVEN series coming in 2021 and we get to revisit some of our favourite Deep Haven characters.  

I'm really looking forward to this new series.  Read all about it here: Sunrise publishing and the prequel is FREE Only You

Connected reviews:

You don't know me

Still the one

About the author:

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and RITA award-winning novelist of over sixty-five novels. An eight-time Christy award finalist, a three-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Carol Award.

A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: The Story Equation.

She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, and Novel.Academy, a school for aspiring novelists. You can find her online at www.susanmaywarren.com.

Review: You Don't Know Me

You Don't Know Me by Susan May Warren
My rating: 💛💛💛💛 

To be honest, this story started with a bang, lagging a bit there in the middle, but ended strong for me.

The prologue and beginning was edgy, promised of suspense and grabbed my attention. But Annalise and Frank's struggle to relocate the Deckers or not felt a bit dragged out and I personally would have wanted a bit more action. There was also things I saw coming, but a few twists and turns I didn't.

However, this story had the same elements I loved throughout this series as well as future series which plays off in Deep Haven: Characters who is not perfect, who, like us, faces challenges in their daily lives and learns a few lessons in their relationship journey with God.

I agree. God does give second chances. And He does protect us—even fixes the unfixable. Especially when we stand firm in our commitments.

I think my favourite parts in this book was meeting John Christiansen who I loved in the Christiansen family series (definitely a series to read starting with . I loved the wisdom he imparted to his close friend, Nathan. A lot which I could also take to heart.

Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be happy. And sometimes you have to find those happy places in between the pain.

There was a few times I did not like Annalise because of the way she treated Tucker Newman. My heart broke for this young boy who just wanted to fit in and be loved. I've already read his story in so knew what was waiting for him, but there was a few times I just wanted to take this broken boy, give him a hug and say everything will be okay.

Grace meant God knew her past and still offered her a beautiful future. An unbreakable happy ending.

This was a sweet story about God's grace and second chances. A heartwarming ending to the Deep Haven series, but not the end of Deep Haven. The Christiansen family series is also set in Deep Haven and coming in 2021 is a whole new Deep Haven series! is a free novella which kicks of the new Deep Haven series.


View all my reviews

About the book:

To everyone who knows her, Annalise Decker is a model wife and mother. She's a permanent member of the PTA, never misses her kids' sporting events, and is constantly campaigning for her husband's mayoral race.No one knows that Annalise was once Deidre O'Reilly, a troubled young woman whose testimony put a dangerous criminal behind bars. Relocated through the Witness Security Program to the sleepy town of Deep Haven, Deidre got a new identity and a fresh start, which began when she fell in love with local real estate agent Nathan Decker. Twenty years later, Annalise couldn't be more unprepared for her past to catch up with her. When Agent Frank Harrison arrives with news that the man she testified against is out on bail and out for revenge, Annalise is forced to face the consequences of her secrets. Will she run again, or will she finally find the grace to trust those she loves most with both her past and her future?

Amazon link to buy

This series is also available on Kindle Unlimited.

Review: Love Story

Love Story by Karen Kingsbury
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

I have such a sweet spot for the Baxters. They were the first family who introduced me to Christian fiction and one of my all time favourite fiction families (though, sometimes it feels like they exist in the real world). Their legacy of faith is so strong, even though they are not without their mistakes!

I enjoyed finally getting John and Elizabeth's back story. Through the previous 25+ books in the Baxter series, it is clear that John is a man of strong faith, so to see what happened between him and Elizabeth which lead to Dayne's adoption was great. And how promising, because no matter the mistakes of your past, God can change you and your future and make you known for a legacy of faith!

I also enjoyed Cody and Andi's love story and hope to see more off them in the rest of the series.

You do not have to read the 25+ books before this new series, there is a recap before the story starts. However, you will know the characters and their journey more in-depth if you do have time to read all the books.

Narrator: I loved the narrators. They read the story with emotion and I enjoyed that they jumped between male and female as the POV of the characters changed.

View all my reviews

About the book:

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury comes a new romantic story featuring everyone’s favorite family—the Baxters—which tells the story of how John and Elizabeth first fell in love.

From the day they met, John and Elizabeth were destined to fall in love. Their whirlwind romance started when they were young college students and lasted nearly thirty years.

So when John Baxter is asked to relive his long-ago love story with Elizabeth for his grandson Cole’s heritage project, he’s not sure he can do it. The sadness might simply be too great. But he agrees and allows his heart and soul to go places they haven’t gone in decades. Back to the breathless first moments, but also to the secret heartbreak that brought John and Elizabeth together.

At the same time, Baxter family friend Cody Coleman is working through the breakup of his complicated relationship with Andi Ellison. He is determined to move on when a chance sighting changes his plans—and heart. Can Cody convince Andi to give their love another try, or is it time for them to say goodbye for good?

As school comes to an end, Cole presents his report on the love story between his grandparents John and Elizabeth Baxter. It is a tale that touches the hearts of the entire family, and one that causes Cole to better understand his own beginning.

Whether you’re meeting the Baxter family for the first time or finding them all over again, Love Story will stir your heart and remind you of the generational impact of love and the eternal bond of family

Weekend Wrap-up: November 22

  

I'm joining Christian Bookshelf Reviews in this weekly weekend wrap-up idea which I first saw on her blog.

See which books I've read this week, currently reading and planning to read.

Books I've finished this week

I've finished a few good books this week.  I loved catching up with The Baxters and the town of Deep Haven:

Follow my Book reviews to see what I thought.  Two reviews to be posted soon!

Currently reading

I am still busy with the same non-fiction and paperback - with 2 kiddos, these take longer to finish!

What is next:

I read the first page or two of Night Fall and I think I'm in for a ride!  Also looking forward to finish the Song of Alaska series.

So, what about you?  What book are you reading which you are really enjoying?

Review: Falling for You

Falling for You by Becky Wade
My rating: 💛💛💛

Rating 3.5

I am a bit conflicted with my rating. Mainly due to a great start which grabbed my interest, but somewhere along the line the story seemed to slow down for me and I found myself not that eager to grab it during my reading time. Even the mystery around the disappearance of Charlotte's aunt ended up in a bit of a let down (I was expecting a bit more of a thrill).

However, the author has a great talent with her stories and descriptions she provides. The more books I read by her, the more I appreciate her talent with words.

Corbin was about as trustworthy as a toddler with a permanent marker.

She didn’t need Vitamin D. That smile was sunlight to her.

I could relate to Willow, I am also quite a rule follower and did what was expected when I was younger. I could also understand her struggle to forgive and trust Corbin again. Corbin, I had a like-dislike relationship with him. Some times I loved his humour and especially how he was around his niece, Charlotte.

He knew he was in trouble. He’d been a beast on the gridiron, but he was a marshmallow where Charlotte was concerned.

Other times he came around as bit of a player, arrogant, overbearing and manipulative when not taking no for an answer. However, at the end of the book we finally saw his heart and he became real with his emotions and won my affections. I think his personality fit perfectly with Willow, to not see life so serious. And I loved his matter of fact believe in what God says.

“Why all the guilt? The way the chaplain explained it to me, once we ask God for forgiveness, we’re forgiven. Right?”

What I liked most about this story was the broken and realistic characters. Willow and Corbin made mistakes in the past, realised they are sinners in need of a saviour and that it is a daily decision and journey.

Lord God, make something beautiful out of our mistakes, in your time.

View all my reviews

About the book:

Famously beautiful model Willow Bradford is taking a temporary break from her hectic schedule to work as the innkeeper at her family's small-town bed-and-breakfast. She was enjoying the peace of her hometown, Merryweather, Washington, right up until she came face-to-face with Corbin Stewart, the man she loves to hate. A thoughtful rule-follower by nature, Willow threw caution to the wind four years ago when she entrusted her heart to Corbin--and suffered the consequences when it all fell apart.

Former NFL quarterback Corbin is forceful, charming, and accustomed to getting what he wants . . . except where Willow Bradford is concerned. Unable to forget her, he's never stopped regretting what happened between them. When their paths unexpectedly cross again, he's determined to make her give him a second chance.

When a decades-old missing persons case finds Corbin and Willow working together, they're forced to confront their past and who they've become--and whether they can risk falling for one another all over again.

Amazon link to buy

Review: Finding Me

Finding Me by Kathryn Cushman
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

Rating 4.5

Wounded people tend to create more wounded people.

This was a really good story. It grabbed my attention from the start and I read the first 50% in two days! The mystery around what happened to Kelli and her dad was intriguing and the journey Kelli took to find the truth was heart breaking, especially some of the flash backs from her growing up years.

I enjoyed how the story was told during current events, letters and journal entries. I also loved Beth -she was a bit bossy but had such a sincere heart. I liked the connection she and Kelli had from the start.

Be even more grateful for your courage and integrity. Hold tight to them. Once you start to let them go, they’re almost impossible to get back.

There was so much healing in this story for Kelli, and especially finding a road to a relationship with God. I enjoyed all the different characters which played a role in steering Kelli to a revelation of what a relationship with God truly is.

We have to make the decision that we’re going to do the right thing no matter what it costs us before we get pressed in tight between the hard place and the easier place.

Kathryn Cushman has a way of taking you along with the characters and also writing a heartbreaking story. There was one event which was just raw and devastating.

The ending for me was a bit faster than what I wanted. There was a whole build op in this story and the ending felt a bit too easy/tame for me.

View all my reviews

About the book:

What would you do if you learned your life was a lie?

All her life, Kelli Huddleston has been told the story of a fire--a fire that killed her mother and two siblings when she was an infant. After her father's death though, she uncovers evidence of a different story, including clippings about a boat accident that killed a young father and his infant daughter. And Kelli quietly realizes the story of her life has been a fiction.


How far would you go to discover the truth?

Armed with only a few pictures of what she thinks might be her family, Kelli crosses the country to Tennessee, determined to uncover the truth about what happened over twenty years ago in a small southern town. When the trip threatens to open doors to the past better left shut, and her plans for the future are jeopardized, Kelli is faced with an agonizing choice that will change her life forever

Click to buy

Series Discovery: The Book of the Wars

 Do you like series? And what about a mystery to solve or the world to save? And a plot which starts in book 1 and then comes to an awesome conclusion in the final and third book?

You do? Then let me introduce you to:  The Book of the Wars

Genre: Military Thriller, aka, action and lots of action.

Mission: To save the world from an army of advanced soldiers who is Jason Bourne on ecstasy.

Characters:  Oh, there is so many characters to love and adore in this series:

 🌟 Leif - I just adore Leif - he was strong, protective, in search of so much answers and his struggles to find answers versus doing what was right, felt so realistic.  Plus...he is a Metcalfe.

 🌟 Iskra - she was strong an courageous and had a very traumatic past to overcome.  Some of my favourite scenes in book one was where she and Leif were fighting...sometimes each other...sometimes the enemy.

🌟 Mercy and Cell - This series had a lot of great supporting characters, but I think these two were my favourite due to the situations they gotten themselves into and all the sassy banter they provided.

🌟 The rest of the team - I would like to be able to highlight each member of the team.  The all played a vital role in this series and all added their own unique flavour to one great team, Devine's intervention always leaving an impact to the team's success.

Writing/The Author:  Ronie Kendig found won a place on my favourite authors' list with her gift of providing me with stories with never ending action, and action described in such a way that I can see the fight and feel the punches or bullets flying by.  Her famous banter among her characters always leaves a lasting impression along with the unforgettable heroes she introduces.  And this series is no different!  With all the action and great characters, as well as TWISTS and TURNS and you being afraid for your favourite characters, because yes, this author is not afraid of taking her heroes on rollercoaster rides, this series is one to spend time on!

BUT WAIT!

If you are like me and your like to read series in order, especially series which is connected, then first go and read Tox Files:

We meet Cell, Mercy and Leif in Tox files and there is a HUGE event in Tox files which is quite a spoiler if you read The Book of the Wars first!

Related posts:

Author discovery: Ronie Kendig

Book review: Soul raging

Ronie Kendig's books on amazon

Weekend Wrap-Up: November 15

 

I'm joining Christian Bookshelf Reviews in this weekly weekend wrap-up idea which I first saw on her blog.

See which books I've read this week, currently reading and planning to read.

Books I've finished this week

I've only managed to finish one book this week:

This was a really good book.  My Book review will be posted this week.

Currently reading

So originally I was planning a different kindle book.  Not sure about you but most of the time my plans change according to what I  feel like reading!

What is next:

I won a kindle copy of Night Fall.  I was so excited, I rarely, like never win.  So definitely want to read that soon!

So, what about you?  Do you also have multiple books going?

Review: Still the One

Still the One by Rachel D. Russell
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

We can't earn anyone's love any more than we can earn God's love.

A sweet, emotionally deep and sometimes humorous debut from a new author set in Susan May Warren's popular Deep Haven.

Rachel D Russell provided me with all I've come to expect from the Deep Haven friends and family - supporting friends, a loving community and two great main characters who each had their own journey to discovering God's plans for their lives.

And she has a great sense of humour:

We may have, well, our lips may have possibly collided. What? Like your face fell and his lips caught yours?

This new author did a great job of giving Cole and Maegan their own unique voice, while maintaining the feel of the Deep Haven I've come to love. It was great catching up with Casper, Raina, Darek and Ivy. Even though her book was set in Susan May Warren's world, I could still feel her own unique voice to the town.

Cole was right up there with my favourite dashing heroes. And I loved Maegan's son Joshua.

The only thing that I struggled believing personally, is the feelings Maegan and Cole had for each other since childhood (age 12) - the way it was portrayed felt more relevant to 16/17 year old's than a 12 year old who, in my mind, should actually still be children.

Great debut and looking forward to the Deep Haven 2.0 series which I expect will be great! And how stunning is this cover!

*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.*

View all my reviews

About the book:

It’s never too late to finish a love story…

Cole Barrett, former Army Ranger, has a new mission objective. Sell his grandfather’s house and put Deep Haven, a place that holds too many hurts, in his rearview mirror as fast as possible. Recently divorced, single, and unattached, Cole just wants a new life as a US Marshal. One where he can forget the past and start new.

Unfortunately, there’s a tenant in the garage apartment who’s refusing to move. Even worse? It’s his childhood crush, Megan Carter, and her son.

Wedding planner and single mom Megan Carter loves Deep Haven. To her, it’s the place where she makes dreams come true—at least, everyone else’s. Her big dream is to purchase the Black Spruce Bed & Breakfast to turn it into a premier event venue and, if she can stay booked for enough weddings over winter, she’ll have the needed funds to buy the inn, move out of Grandpa Barrett’s garage apartment, and finally give her nine-year-old son, Josh, the life he deserves. She just needs four thousand dollars in the next thirty days.

Still, she’s oh, so close…until Cole Barrett returns to Deep Haven. Even if he’s not back to fulfill a silly childhood promise to marry her, but she never expected him to evict her! The last thing she needs is more expenses. Or for another man to walk into her heart…and break it.

When a blizzard strikes Deep Haven, and Megan is overrun with wedding catastrophes, it takes a former Ranger to step in and help. Besides, the more he comes to her rescue, the sooner she’ll be able to move out…and he can move on. And that’s what they both want, right?

Return to Deep Haven with this magical tale about the one who got away…and came back.

Review: Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe

Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe by Max Lucado
My rating: 3 of 5 stars 💛💛💛

If you had one question you know God will answer, what would you ask?

This was a sweet story of how, even when we do not feel it, God is there with us and Helping us.
I enjoyed seeing Chelsea grow and learning to forgive and enjoyed Manny's character, experiencing earth for the first time.

There was a few events which did seem a bit unrealistic, but then again, I have to think are we limiting what God can do in our every day lives because we are afraid to believe the supernatural - I know I sometimes avoid it because it is a bit unknown. And how will our lives be changed and what will we experience when we are brave enough to step out into the supernatural... after all, our battles is not against flesh and blood.

View all my reviews

About the book:

What if you could ask God anything? What would you ask, and how would He answer? Chelsea Chambers is on her own. After a public split from her NFL superstar husband, Chelsea takes a bold step out of the limelight and behind the counter of the Higher Grounds Caf�, an old-fashioned coffee shop in dire need of reinvention. But when her courage, expert planning, and out-of-this-world cupcakes fail to pay the bills, this newly single mom finds herself desperate for help. Better yet, a miracle.

Then a curious stranger lands on Chelsea's doorstep, and with him, an even more curious string of events. Soon, customers are flocking to the Higher Grounds Caf�, and not just for the cupcakes and cappuccino. They've come for the internet connection to the divine. Now the caf� has become the go-to place for people in search of answers to life's biggest questions.

When a catastrophe strikes and her ex comes calling, Chelsea begins to wonder if the whole universe is conspiring against her quest to make it on her own. After a shocking discovery opens her eyes to the unseen world around her, Chelsea finds the courage to ask God a question of her own--and heaven answers in a most unexpected way.

Review: Final Vows

Final Vows by Karen Kingsbury
My rating: 2 of 5 stars  💛💛

This was one of the first books Karen Kingsbury wrote before she started Christian fiction. I prefer her Christian fiction. This book is based on a true crime and basically feels like an extended newspaper article.

The crime was interesting and I managed to finish it because I wanted to see what happened to Dan. This story did not have a happy ending and it was actually shocking how the police and DA worked the circumstantial evidence to support their theory - even if it was true or not.

I gave it two stars because I didn’t like the so documentary writing style . I found a lot of it boring and found myself scanning though parts to get to interesting facts again.

Even though Dan was a very unlikeable guy I did end up feeling sorry for him.

View all my reviews

About the book:

When Carol Montecalvo began writing to a man in prison through a program at her church, she considered it her Christian duty. But these letters soon became her lifeline, something she actually looked forward to sending and receiving. She fell in love with Dan, the man behind the letters. In Final Vows, #1 New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury chronicles a couples unlikely romance and marriage, and what led to Carol's bloody death on her kitchen floor. It seems her husband has obvious motives for murder. But is this former felon really guilty? Or could he actually be a grieving widower, in the wrong place at the wrong time, showing the wrong type of emotions when faced with his wife's lifeless body?

Weekend Wrap-up: November 8

 

I'm joining Christian Bookshelf Reviews in this weekly weekend wrap-up idea which I first saw on her blog.

See which books I've read this week, currently reading and planning to read.

Books I've finished this week

(This week will be a longer week: Sunday 1st to Sunday 8th)

Check out my thoughts under Book Reviews

Currently reading

What is next:

So, what about you?  Do you also have multiple books going?

Author discovery: Ronie Kendig

 I love suspense.  Before 2014 I knew about 3 suspense authors: Lynette Eason, Colleen Coble and Terri Blackstock.  Then a colleague told me about this reading site, Goodreads and I remember someone directing me to this list: Best Christian suspense.  

On the top of the list was Ronie Kendig's Discarded Heroes series.  I remember thinking her books look good and then one day saw the Discarded Heroes series on sale on Amazon and took the leap and purchased it.

I've been a fan since.

Not only have I been send on some amazing military adventures, but I've met some strong military heroes who can win a fight and dodge bullets at one moment, and then be vulnerable with the women they love the next moment.  And I've read some of the best banter between these men.

So, have you discovered Ronie Kendig yet? No? 

If you like military heroes, but heroes who can also bleed and feel pain - you should meet some of Ronie Kendig's military men.

Oh, and I can't forget to mention all of her TWISTS and TURNS.  Ronie Kendig has had me holding my breath multiple times and had my heart beating at rapid speed at other times.  And I am now afraid to fall in love with any of the heroes in her stories... because she can just one day decide that a certain character must die!  No, I will probably never get over that one!

So, what are you waiting for!  Amazon link to books

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: Soul Raging

Soul Raging by Ronie Kendig
My rating: 4 of 5 stars 💛💛💛💛

You know that feeling you get when you meet up with a best friend after a very long time, this is what I felt when I go this book. This is the final book in "The Book of the Wars series" and you should definitely read it in order. If you can you should also read "The Tox Files" before you read this series, since you meet Leif and other vital members of the team in that series.

Back to 'Soul Raging' - it was everything I've come to expect from Ronie Kendig. Action, action and more action. Heroes with a tender side (I totally felt Leif's struggle with getting answers to his questions and doing what he knows is right), twists and turns - there was so many "oh no" and "really!" moments, and Ronie Kendig's famous banter. At the end the story felt too short. I would have loved to spend more time with Leif and Iskra and Mercy, but the conclusion was really sweet. I am secretly hoping for a Novella.

I loved Canyon Metcalfe in this. A novella or series about the Metcalfe brothers would be high on my wish list.

But seriously, if you have never read Ronie Kendig's Military thrillers, you need need to give it a try.
I will keep reading anything new she brings out and are almost caught up on her backlist.

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

View all my reviews

About the Book:

Sometimes, the only hope is the enemy.

Leif Metcalfe is done waiting for answers and seizes control, a move that comes with a high price and a deadly risk: teaming up with the enemy. He can only hope that what he uncovers will heal the wounds he's inflicted on those he loves.

Iskra Todorova believes Leif is on a collision course with death and knows firsthand the irrevocable cost of that path to the soul. While trying to protect her daughter and intervene with Leif, Iskra is forced to set her sights on the man behind the evil organization ArC--Ciro Veratti.

Torn apart by injuries and opposing views on how to handle Leif's act of treachery, team Reaper hunts one of their own. The only thing they agree on is not stopping but starting the final battle prophesied in the Book of the Wars.

Review: The Gold Digger

The Gold Digger by Liz Tolsma
My rating: 5 of 5 stars 💛💛💛💛💛

This was such a great thriller and the best book I’ve yet read by this author. The author drew me in from the start with the great cast of characters she gave and the way she told the story.

I knew it was based on real events but the plot felt so twisted and gruesome, could it really be true? And then the author had me confused so many times about what happened to the men and who did it, that my head was spinning in circles about what was going on - I could probably have googled these crimes but then I would have lost the enjoyment of the journey.

And the ending was surprising and also did not feel concluded. I kept reading and feeling like something else is probably going to happen.

The romance was also secondary to the suspense story which I liked.

I’m still a bit shocked about these crimes and would probably not recommend this to sensitive readers. Though, if you love thrillers, you would love this story. For me this was the best yet in the series.

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

View all my reviews

About the book:

Men Are Disappearing in LaPorte, Indiana

In 1907, shy but loyal Ingrid Storset travels from Norway to support her grieving sister, Belle Gunness, who owns a farm in LaPorte, Indiana. Well-to-do widow Belle, who has lost two husbands and several children, provides Ingrid with enough money to start a small business. But Ingrid is confused by the string of men Belle claims to be interviewing for her next husband. When Nils Lindherud comes to town looking for his missing brother, who said he was going to marry Belle, Ingrid has a sinking feeling her sister is up to no good.

Click to buy

Monthly Recap: October reads

 

I first saw this monthly reflections ideas on: Christian bookshelf reviews

What I've read:

I had a great month for reading.  I finished 9 books! And there was a few great ones!

It is difficult to say which was my favourite, I enjoyed all of them.  I will highlight the following though:

The one most excited for:  Soul raging (review coming November)

The one with high expectations which was met: The Pawn

You can find all my reviews on what I've read this month under: Book review  - Still the One and Soul raging's review will be posted in November.

November plans:

Since my two boys affect my reading time, I don't plan on how many books I want to read.  I do however want to try to finish a few series I have going.

I also added the entire Montana Marshall series by Susan May Warren to my TBR and I can't wait to start that, but also am delaying it because I know it will be good, but then it will also be over.

So, how did your October go and do you have reading plans for November?

Review: Stealing the Preacher

Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars 💛💛💛💛

I loved Crockett the most of all the Archer brothers I’ve met in book one, Short-Straw bride and was really looking forward to his book. I enjoyed it, but I liked book one a tiny bit more.

I really liked Crocket and Joanna and their story. They both had a strong faith in God which was evident in their daily lives. I again enjoyed the humour Karen Witemeyer included, especially during the first chapter when Crockett was kidnapped.

I also enjoyed the supporting characters of which Silas and Jackson were my favourite. I did not like Holly at all and her part in the story did take away some of my enjoyment, but that is because I don’t like these type of storylines and characters like Holly. I did appreciate how Crockett put her in her place.

I wished there was more scenes with the Archer brothers. The relationship they have and was seen in book 1 is what made me love them and I would have liked to see more, but understand why we couldn’t.

All the scripture references and the road to redemption for one character was very clear and strong. Even the ending for me was a beautiful picture of how God forgives our sins and not give us the punishment we deserve.

Another great enjoyable story by Karen Witemeyer.

View all my reviews

About the book:

On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can scarcely believe it when he's forced off the train by a retired outlaw and presented to the man's daughter as the minister she requested for her birthday. Worried this unfortunate detour will ruin his chances of finally serving a congregation of his own, Crockett is determined to escape. But when he finally gets away, he's haunted by the memory of the young woman he left behind--a woman whose dreams now hinge on him.

For months, Joanna Robbins prayed for a preacher. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. A man to help her discover answers to the questions that have been on her heart for so long. But just when it seems God has answered her prayers, it turns out the person is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere. Is there any way she can convince Crockett to stay in her little backwoods community? And does the attraction between them have any chance of blossoming when Joanna's outlaw father is dead set against his daughter courting a preacher?

Click to buy

Review: The Shadow of Your Smile

The Shadow of Your Smile by Susan May Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars 💛💛💛💛

This was a raw, emotion-filled roller coaster towards forgiveness and reconciliation. Susan May Warren has a talent of providing characters with emotion, taking you with them to the lowest lows and highest highs, their journey in discovering God’s plans in their lives and then just throw in some action for suspense, because who doesn’t like a few twists and turns.

Starting this novel I was a bit wary and not connecting to Noelle, because she came across mean - but I didn’t just lose my memory, thinking I was 25 years younger... but as the story developed, I experienced Noelle’s journey in discovering her life and herself.

Eli, Noelle and the sub characters had so much to deal with - quilt, letting go, forgiving others and oneself. I loved the spiritual walks each character had to take to get to the point of reconciliation to God and others. And the flashbacks to the past and the major event which turned their lives upside down was so full of emotion, I was drawn in and could feel what the characters feel!

There is so much more to say about this novel, but I will leave you to discover it on your own.

“Kelsey told me once that faith wasn’t about trusting God when it was easy. Faith appeared when God seemed farthest away.”

“She always said our job was to trust. God’s job was to overflow us with joy.”

“God never intended for us to go through life alone.”



View all my reviews

About the book:

Sometimes love requires a little forgetting.

A beautiful blanket of snow may cover the town of Deep Haven each winter, but it can’t quite hide the wreckage of Noelle and Eli Hueston’s marriage. After twenty-five years, they’re on the brink of divorce when an accident erases part of Noelle’s memory. Though her other injuries are minor, she doesn’t remember Eli, their children, or the tragedy that has ripped them apart.

What’s more, Noelle is shocked that her life turned out nothing like she dreamed it would. What happened to her ambitions? Could she really be married to this grizzly man?

As she steps back into her role as wife and mother, Eli attempts to help with both humorous and heartwarming results. But can she fall in love again with a man she can’t remember? Will the secrets she discovers destroy them . . . or has erasing the past given them a chance for the future? (from the product page at Amazon.com).

Click to buy

Review: Double Blind

Double Blind by Brandilyn Collins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars 💛💛💛💛

Finishing this in three days should be evident on how "edge of your seat" suspense this was. The plot was interesting and kept me guessing on what was going to happen or just when I think something will happen, the author threw in a twist that had me rethinking my whole thought process.

Yes, there was some unrealistic events, like moving around and driving after major brain surgery, but the way the author has written this story, especially the visions Lisa saw, had me so completely interested in how this will end, this small details I was okay to overlook.

I liked how the author used Lisa's mom as her rock in this crisis and how this crisis brought them together, made the talk about past hurts and reconciled their relationship.

This was a good suspense by an author I still have lots of books to catch up on.

View all my reviews

About the book:

Twenty-nine-year-old Lisa Newberry can barely make it through the day. Suddenly widowed and a survivor of a near-fatal attack, she is wracked with grief and despair. Then she hears of a medical trial for a tiny brain chip that emits electrical pulses to heal severe depression. At rope’s end, Lisa offers herself as a candidate.

When she receives her letter of acceptance for the trial, Lisa is at first hopeful. But—brain surgery. Can she really go through with that? What if she receives only the placebo?

What if something far worse goes wrong?

Written in the relentless style for which Brandilyn Collins is known, Double Blind is a psychological thriller with mind-bending twists. Lisa faces choices that drive her to the brink, and one wrong move could cost the lives of many.