Review: A Tender Hope

A Tender Hope by Amanda Cabot
My rating: 💛💛💛

For fans of romance, this story was not only filled with one love story, but three. All unique and sweet as the couples.

There was also a murder and suspense plot following Thea and ranger Jackson which kept my interest to find out what is going on.

I enjoyed meeting all the characters and seeing a sweet reconciliation.

*I listened to the audiobook on Everand.*

Review book 1: A Stolen Heart

Review book 2: A Borrowed Dream 

View all my reviews

About the book:

As far as Thea Michener is concerned, it's time for a change. With her husband murdered and her much-anticipated baby stillborn, there is nothing left for her in Ladreville. Having accepted a position as Cimarron Creek's midwife, she has no intention of remarrying and trying for another child. So when a handsome Texas Ranger appears on her doorstep with an abandoned baby, Thea isn't sure her heart can take it.

Ranger Jackson Guthrie isn't concerned only with the baby's welfare. He's been looking for Thea, convinced that her late husband was part of the gang that killed his brother. But it soon becomes clear that the situation is far more complicated than he anticipated--and he'll need Thea's help if he's ever to find the justice he seeks.

About the Author:

With both parents avid readers, it's no surprise that Amanda Cabot learned to read at an early age. From there it was only a small step to deciding to become a writer. Of course, deciding and becoming are two different things, as she soon discovered. Fortunately for the world, her first attempts at fiction were not published, but she did meet her goal of selling a novel by her thirtieth birthday. Since then she’s sold more than forty novels. When she’s not writing, Amanda enjoys sewing, cooking and – of course – reading.

Amanda Cabot invites readers back to Cimarron Creek for a tender story of loss, betrayal, and love in the majestic Texas Hill Country.

Review: The Lady of Galway Manor

The Lady of Galway Manor by Jennifer Deibel
My rating: 💛💛💛

With some lovable and wiser older characters and a beautiful setting in Ireland, readers can welcome a romance historical story.

Anna and Stephen’s story were a bit messy with Anna having family duty on her shoulders while trying to follow her heart and passions and Stephen with a past and hurt he needed to let go.

The side characters added to the enjoyment and success of the story.

The narrator had a beautiful voice which made listening a treat.

*I listened to the audiobook on Everand.*

View all my reviews

About the book:

In 1920, Annabeth De Lacy's father is appointed landlord of Galway Parish in Ireland. Bored without all the trappings of the British Court, Annabeth convinces her father to arrange an apprenticeship for her with the Jennings family--descendants of the creator of the famed Claddagh Ring.

Stephen Jennings longs to do anything other than run his family's jewelry shop. Having had his heart broken, he no longer believes in love and is weary of peddling the ÒliesÓ the Claddagh Ring promises.

Meanwhile, as the war for Irish independence gains strength, many locals resent the De Lacys and decide to take things into their own hands to display their displeasure. As events take a dangerous turn for Annabeth and her family, she and Stephen begin to see that perhaps the "other side" isn't quite as barbaric and uncultured as they'd been led to believe--and that the bonds of friendship, love, and loyalty are only made stronger when put through the refiner's fire.

Travel to the Emerald Isle for another poignant and romantic story from the enchanted pen of Jennifer Deibel.

About the author:

Jennifer Deibel is a middle school teacher and freelance writer. Her work has appeared on (in)courage, on

The Better Mom, in Missions Mosaic Magazine, and others. With firsthand immersive experience abroad, Jennifer writes stories that help redefine home through the lens of culture, history, and family. After nearly a decade of living in Ireland and Austria, she now lives in Arizona.

Debut novel, A Dance in Donegal, releases February 2, 2021 from Revell. Follow Moira Doherty to the wilds of rural Ireland in 1921. Available for preorder wherever books are sold.

Review: Her Darkest Secret

Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch
My rating: 💛💛💛💛💛

Just after the first page I knew two things. This book is going to be good. And I have a new favourite author to add to my list.

There was a creepy factor with being in the mind of the the killer, a relationship which was broken but clearly deep emotions still there and a spiritual thread with Asa just recently finding his way to a relationship with God. I loved this part since we could see he is trying to make better decisions, but the flesh is still weak. But Fiona could clearly see the change in him in ways he would previously reacted versus reacting now.

The twists I did not see coming! I am looking forward to continue this series since there was a lot of things I felt was not immediately answered!

View all my reviews

About the book:

When a cold-case serial killer returns, FBI special agent Fiona Kelly has one last chance to stop him before he claims the prize he’s always wanted—her.

The sight of a goose feather at a murder scene modeled after a children’s poem is enough to make FBI special agent Fiona Kelly's blood turn to ice. Almost two decades ago, a feather was left with her sister's body—and with every subsequent victim of the Nursery Rhyme Killer. Now he's back. Only this time, his latest gruesome murder is a message to the only one who ever got away: Fiona.

Finding “Rhyme” is an obsession that's fueled Fiona's career—and destroyed her marriage to fellow FBI agent Asa Kodiak. Now Fiona and Asa have to put their past tensions aside and work together one last time. But Rhyme is watching, and catching this killer may force Fiona to reveal her biggest, darkest secret…the one only he knows.

“Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch grabbed me in the first scene of this edge-of-your-seat suspense and didn't let go until the end!”—Patricia Bradley, author of the Memphis Cold Case novels

About the author:

Publishers Weekly Bestselling author Jessica R. Patch is known for her dry wit and signature twists whether

she’s penned a romantic suspense, a cold case thriller, or a small-town romance. When she’s not getting into fictional mischief with her characters, you can find her cozy on the couch in her mid-south home reading books by some of her favorite authors, watching movies with her family, and collecting recipes to amazing dishes she’ll probably never cook. Sign up for her newsletter “Patched In” at www.jessicarpatch.com. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Management.

Can't Wait Wednesday: Rescued Faith

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

I am enjoying this series!

About the book: Rescued Faith

When private detective Penny Mitchell’s latest case takes her right back to the last place on earth she wants to go, she must make a choice—continue running from her past, leaving Last Chance County for good, or stay and ensure that her sister and her kids are safe. Even if that means running into her ex.

Rescue firefighter and notorious playboy Bryce Crawford is supposed to be a different guy now that he’s come to faith, but he isn’t exactly sure how to do that—especially when the woman who broke his heart comes back to town. As if seeing Penny isn’t dangerous enough, they have to work together on a new task force to find the criminals responsible for the recent string of explosions and epidemic of dangerous new weapons on the streets.

Together, Penny and Bryce must set aside their past and race against time to uncover the criminals’ end game…and stop them before it's too late.

Dive into this heart-pounding romantic suspense where danger lurks around every corner and second chances come at a price. Rescued Faith is a thrilling tale of redemption, forgiveness, and the unbreakable bonds of family in the face of adversity.

What are you waiting on this week?

Weekend Wrap-up: March 23rd

 

 It’s Monday! What are you reading? is hosted by Book Date.

A bit slower reading week this time.

Finished

(Reviews can be found under Book Review tag)

Currently reading

Next up:

What are you reading this week?

Blog Posts Recap:

Here is my past week's Blog Posts.

Top Ten Tuesday

Can't Wait Wednesday

Book Spotlight Fridays!

Saturday Series Discovery

Adding to the Bookshelf:

Which Avid Reader do not add to their shelves! I try to limit mine to review books since I have so many owned on my TBR to read.  So did I add to my shelf this week? 

None this week.

Bought: None

Freebies: None

Weekend Wrap-up: March 16th

 

It’s Monday! What are you reading? is hosted by Book Date.

A colder week again but we had a sunny weekend!

Finished

(Reviews can be found under Book Review tag)

Currently reading

Next up:

What are you reading this week?

Blog Posts Recap:

Here is my past week's Blog Posts.

Top Ten Tuesday

Can't Wait Wednesday

Book Spotlight Fridays!

Saturday Series Discovery

Adding to the Bookshelf:

Which Avid Reader do not add to their shelves! I try to limit mine to review books since I have so many owned on my TBR to read.  So did I add to my shelf this week? 

Two this week.

Bought: None

Freebies: None

Book Spotlight Friday! The Other Sister

Book Beginnings and Friday56

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by My Head is Full of Books and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your e-reader and share a non-spoiler sentence or two.  First Line Friday is a weekly meme hosted by Reading is my Superpower that asks you to share the first sentence of the book you're reading.

This was thrilling.

The Other Sister

About the book:

She thought she was the only one lying about her identity. Until she stepped into her sister’s life.

Charlotte Kane has always dreamed of a different life, one where she isn’t living paycheck to paycheck. An existence worlds away from the chaos of her own. Then her estranged mother dies, and Charlotte makes a stunning discovery—she has an identical twin who was given up for adoption.

Acelynn Benedict is polished, successful and seems to have everything Charlotte yearns for—a wealthy, doting family in Savannah, a handsome boyfriend, a great career. She’s just as surprised as Charlotte to learn she has a sister. But when tragedy hits and Charlotte is forced to assume Acelynn’s identity in a desperate moment, she uncovers something altogether darker…

No one in her sister’s life is quite who they seem to be. And every discovery leads Charlotte deeper into a web of deadly secrets. Charlotte may have wanted Acelynn’s life, yet now that she’s living it, she wants out. But if she reveals the truth about herself, it will mean returning to her old life—and she’s already a dead woman there.

*************************************************************

Book Beginnings

Her eyes are vacant orbs that pierce my soul and chill my bones.

Friday 56

The fear that always haunts me, forcing me to keep my mouth shut.

My thoughts so far

This psychological thriller kept me wondering right till the end. And what a twist at the end!

   ************************************************************* 

 

Can't Wait Wednesday! The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

Really looking forward to this one!

About the book: The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House

A clever young woman, a contested will, and an estate that does not easily give up its secrets.

It is 1901 when clockmaker and tinker Sydney Forrester receives a most unusual inheritance. Blakely House, the island estate of an estranged uncle she's never met, seems almost alive, revealing and hiding its secrets at will. It is filled with remarkable inventions, including an intriguing unfinished automaton Sydney is itching to get her skilled hands on.

The estate is also home to a number of peculiar people--including two men intent on removing this interloper from the island. Convinced that Sydney has something to do with their uncle's death, the late master's nephews contest the will and work against their cousin at every turn.

Sydney finds a sometimes-ally in the estate's butler, an ex-adventurer who ran aground on the island years ago. But when a mysterious man washes ashore with a stunning surprise that upsets everything, Sydney must prove she has inherited the late master's brilliance as well as his property--or someone else will.

What are you waiting on this week?

Review: The Filling Station: A Novel

The Filling Station: A Novel by Vanessa Miller
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

“What I see is a woman determined to survive. And that’s a beautiful thing in my sight.”

This was not an easy read. It was filled with a community who had to survive a horrific night, but not only that isolated night, months of rising up and moving forward even though no assistance was provided and the true guilty party placed blame at their feet.

“I’ve been where you are. I know how anger at unthinkable tragedy can cause bitterness toward God. But one day He came into my heart and removed all the bitterness. I wish the same for you.”

But it was filled with strong people who did survive, did move forward and through taking it day by day and keep on fighting, were able to heal and come out stronger.

Lifting the Bible again he added, “That’s how I feel about this book. When I read it, I’m fueling my spirit and my soul so I can get through the day, the week, the month. Some days are harder than others, but my filling station gives me the fuel I need to get to the other side of trouble.”

I LOVED all the scripture and the rawness and struggle to trust God. It made this book honest and real.

See, God is a gentleman. He will only come where He is invited.”

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

View all my reviews

About the book:

Two sisters. One unassuming haven. Endless opportunities for grace.

During Jim Crow America, there was only one place Black Americans could safely refuel their vehicles along what would eventually become iconic Route 66. But more than just a place to refuel, it was a place to fill up the soul, build community, and find strength. For two sisters, the Threatt Filling Station became the safe haven they needed after escaping the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.

After looking in the face of evil and leaving her whole world behind, Margaret Justice wants nothing more than to feel safe and hold tight to what she has left. Her sister, Evelyn, meanwhile, is a dreamer who longs for adventure and to follow her heart, even though she's been told repeatedly to not dream too big.

As they both grapple with love, loss, and racism, Margaret and Evelyn realize that they can't hide out at the filling station when Greenwood and their father's legacy needs to be rebuilt. Going back will take strength they're not sure they have. But for the love of Greenwood, they will risk it all and just may be the catalyst to bring Black Wall Street back to its former glory.

About the Author:

Vanessa Miller is a best-selling author, entrepreneur, playwright, and motivational speaker. She started writing as a child, spending countless hours either reading or writing poetry, short stories, stage plays and novels. Vanessa’s creative endeavors took on new meaning in1994 when she became a Christian. Since then, her writing has been centered on themes of redemption, often focusing on characters facing multi-dimensional struggles.

Vanessa’s novels have received rave reviews, with several appearing on Essence Magazine’s Bestseller’s List. Miller’s work has receiving numerous awards, including “Best Christian Fiction Mahogany Award” and the “Red Rose Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction.” Miller graduated from Capital University with a degree in Organizational Communication. She is an ordained minister in her church, explaining, “God has called me to minister to readers and to help them rediscover their place with the Lord.”
· Essence Bestsellers’ List March 2008; May 2008 (Former Rain)
· Essence Bestsellers’ List September 2008 (Rain Storm)
· Black Expressions Book Club Alternate Selection 2007, 2008, 2009 & 2010
· #1 Ebook for fiction on Amazon.com November 2010 (Long Time Coming)
· #1 on BCNN/BCBC Bestsellers’ List November 2010 (Long Time Coming)
She has worked with numerous publishers: Urban Christian, Kimani Romance, Abingdon Press and Whitaker House. She is currently working on Something Good with Thomas Nelson (HarperCollins) which releases in March 2022.

In 2016, Vanessa launched the Christian Book Lover’s Retreat in an effort to bring readers and authors of Christian fiction together in an environment that’s all about Faith, Fun & Fellowship. To learn more about Vanessa, please visit her website: www.vanessamiller.com. If you would like to know more about the Christian Book Lover’s Retreat that is currently held in Charlotte, NC during the last week in October you can visit: http://www.christianbookloversretreat...
Vanessa lives in North Carolina with her husband and family. She graduated from Capital University with a degree in Organizational Communication.

Most of Vanessa’s published novels depict characters that are lost and in need of redemption. The books have received countless favorable reviews.

“. . . Heartwarming, drama-packed and tender in just the right places.”—Romantic Times Book Review.

“Recommended for readers of redemption stories.” –Library Journal.

www.vanessamiller.com

Don’t forget to join my mailing list:
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Website: www.vanessamiller.com
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Review: Rescued Duty

Rescued Duty by Lisa Phillips
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

Just like her faith walk. One step at a time.

Rescued Duty was dangerous, action packed and suspenseful. But it was also an emotional journey which focused on growing up in the foster care system.

Both Naya and Zack had a tough time growing up, but Zack’s story of how he felt blamed for his parents’ death and also bringing trouble wherever he went, pulled me more in than Naya’s. I just have a soft spot for heroes who look rough and tough, but are hiding a soft and generous heart.

“You are a child of God. Your past does not define you. You have been made new and now live in the Spirit, producing good fruit.”

The plot surrounding the possible chemical spill was intriguing and with danger and attacks around every turn kept me in suspense right till the end.

Love this series and I'm looking forward to the next book!

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




View all my reviews

About the book:

After growing up in foster care, investigative reporter Naya Michél has learned there’s usually more to a situation than meets the eye. When she’s assigned a story about the current water contamination crisis in town, Naya is ready to show her boss she has what it takes to secure a promotion—especially since the events surrounding the story have personal ties to her childhood. When her investigation makes her the target of someone who wants the truth kept quiet, how far will Naya’s determination take her before the cost becomes too much?

Rescue Squad firefighter and former foster kid Zack Stephens is ready to step up his game at work when his boss hands him a cold case for hazmat training. As Zack delves into the case, he uncovers a shocking revelation—his parents’ deaths weren’t accidental. Determined to find their murderer, Zack throws himself into the investigation. But he doesn’t expect his search to collide with Naya, the girl he promised to protect when they lived in foster care together.

As threats mount and Naya is caught in the crosshairs, can Zack reconcile the mistakes of his past and find a killer before someone deals a lethal blow? And can the two of them learn to trust—and love—each other again despite the pain of their past?

Rescued Duty is a pulse-pounding tale of second chances, found family, and the unbreakable bonds forged in the face of adversity.

Weekend Wrap-up: March 9th

 

 It’s Monday! What are you reading? is hosted by Book Date.

We had warm autumn weather this week with lots of sun! It was fun spending time outdoors.

Finished

(Reviews can be found under Book Review tag)

Currently reading

Next up:

What are you reading this week?

Blog Posts Recap:

Here is my past week's Blog Posts.

Top Ten Tuesday

Can't Wait Wednesday

Book Spotlight Fridays!

Saturday Series Discovery

Adding to the Bookshelf:

Which Avid Reader do not add to their shelves! I try to limit mine to review books since I have so many owned on my TBR to read.  So did I add to my shelf this week? 

None this week.

Bought: None

Freebies: None

Review: When the Sky Burned: October 8, 1871

When the Sky Burned: October 8, 1871 by Liz Tolsma
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

I have always heard about the Chicago fire, but never have I heard about this fire in Wisconsin which was more devastating and deathly than the Chicago fire.

I really enjoyed the characters which we have met. Mariah had a beautiful innocence to her who looked at the world with painters eyes. The tragedy she went through and her struggles and questions towards God felt raw, real and honest.

Jay was a strong and solid hero who everyone overlooked because he was always the quiet humble bookkeeper. The danger that threatened him in search of the truth kept this reader in suspense.

I really loved the ending though I was wondering if everyone will be able to get the happiness they deserve.

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


View all my reviews

About the book:

A Tornado of Fire and Embezzlement Sweep through a Community  
 
Enjoy a series of 6 exciting novels featuring historic disasters that transformed landscapes and multiple lives. Whether by nature or by man, these disasters changed history and were a day to be remembered.
 
Promising painter Mariah Randolph longs to have her canvases displayed in the world’s best museums, and Hollis Stanford, the heir of a railroad tycoon, is her ticket to success. The railroad’s bookkeeper, Jay Franklin, discovers discrepancies and is convinced that Hollis is stealing from the company. But any proof of his dirty dealings go up in smoke when fire utterly destroys the town of Peshtigo, Wisconsin, October 8, 1871.
 
The fire leaves Mariah blind, but Jay befriends her and even helps her to start painting again. But a trip to Chicago to return Hollis’s daughter to him could put both Mariah and Jay in more danger than even the fire that devastated the town and their lives.
 
Also available in the A Day to Remember
When the Waters Came by Candice Sue Patterson
When the Flames Ravaged by Rhonda Dragomir
When Hope Sank by Denise Weimer
When the Mountain Crumbled by Angela K. Couch
When the Avalanche Roared by Lauralee Bliss

About the author:

Liz Tolsma has lived in Wisconsin most of her life, and she now resides next to a farm field with her

husband, their son, and their two daughters. All of their children have been adopted internationally and one has special needs. Her novella, Under His Wings, appeared in the New York Times bestselling collection, A Log Cabin Christmas. Her debut novel, Snow on the Tulips, released in August of 2013. Daisies Are Forever released in May 2014. When not busy putting words to paper, she enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping with her family. Please visit her blog at www.liztolsma.blogspot.com and follow her on Facebook and Twitter (@LizTolsma). She is also a regular contributor to the Barn Door blog.

Monthly Recap: February 2025

 

 

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

February was cold, but we had some sunny days and went on our first family ski-trip.

 

What I've read:

(Reviews can be found under Book Review tag)

Kindle:

Audio:

Paperback:

Still in progress

What I would like to read in March:

Upcoming reads (hopeful):

Did I buy any new books?

Bought: Three

Freebies: Two

Did I read everything I wanted too?

The following I had to carry over

January:

February:

ARC/Netgalley update:

ARC/Netgalley books downloaded this month:

A bit better this month with the ARCs:

ARC/Netgalley books read and reviewed:

Send feedback on the following:

How was your month?