Review: The Not So Neutral Zone

The Not So Neutral Zone by Susan May Warren
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

This Rom-com was everything you would want - dashing gent and lady with a cute first meeting and fast forward to their second meeting which thrown them in a peculiar situation.

I was smiling and laughing but also felt the heartbreak of the characters. Both main characters had to learn their worth and rise above things and thoughts keeping them hostage.

But what stood out for me was the spiritual depth we also see through the struggles, challenges and questions of the characters.

And the added bonus of Conrad and Wyatt popping up with have fans of prior series feel a taste of home.

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

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About the book:

One perfect day in Barcelona. One kiss that changed everything. One goodbye that broke my heart.

I've always been the overlooked sister, the forgotten friend, the girl in the background of everyone else's love story. But when a handsome stranger rescued my purse—and then my entire day—I dared to believe my story might finally be starting.

Then he vanished. No explanation. No phone number. Not even a last name.

Classic.

Fast forward to six months later, when I discover my mystery man is Brody "Candy" Kane—NHL golden boy, my sister's fiancé's teammate—and he needs a favor. As in, a girlfriend to keep his reputation in good shape while he skates into a new contract. And frankly? I wouldn't mind a date to my sister's over-the-top wedding.

The Fake date through wedding season. Break up at the end. No harm, no foul.

The Fake smiles for the cameras. Fake hand-holding for the fans. Absolutely, positively, no falling for each other for real.

The The chemistry that sparked in Barcelona? Never actually went away. And pretending to be in love with someone you're already halfway in love with?

Terrible idea. 0/10. Would not recommend.

A swoony Christian romance about second chances, hidden identities, and discovering that the one man you shouldn't want might be exactly who you need. Fans of Emma St. Clair, Jenny Proctor, and Courtney Walsh will love this sweet and clean, fake dating rom-com with all the banter and none of the spice.

Review: Edge of Truth

Edge of Truth by Janice Cantore
My rating: 💛💛💛💛💛

Edge of Truth is a thriller which will keep readers up way past their bedtime, keep flipping pages to try and unravel what is going on.

This is the first book by this author which made me forget about all my responsibilities and other hobbies, including sleep, because I was not able to put the book down before I knew what happened and how everything turned out.

The emotions in this story were raw, fear for the safety of the characters real and right till the end I had hoped that everything will turn out okay.

Apart from the mystery which was suspenseful and action packed straight till the end, the spiritual journey of Lainie due to her work was a strong thread. Laine was not without faults and mistakes, and her path back to her faith and trust in God was relatable.

A book I will highly recommend to fellow thriller/romantic suspense fans.

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


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About the book:

One case almost destroyed her career. Now the past seems to have caught up with her. And as a high-stakes game of truth and lies unfolds, someone’s out for retribution at any cost.

As a detective in the Long Beach Police Department’s violent crimes division, Lainie Jensen is no stranger to hard-to-crack cases and unusual disappearances, but then her sister Evie vanishes on a trip to Hawaii. After traveling there to look for her, Lainie quickly realizes her brother-in-law Stan is telling law enforcement a story that doesn’t appear to add up.

FBI special agent Ben Isaacs has spent six months collecting evidence to take down a money laundering operation. While his fellow agent Efren Gomez goes undercover to infiltrate the ring, Ben investigates those connected to it, including Stan Moffitt, who Ben believes could help lead to the criminal kingpin. Then Stan’s wife goes missing just days after Ben contacted her seeking information, and he knows there’s more to this case, especially when he loses contact with Efren and law enforcement comes up short in their search for him.

When Ben’s and Lainie’s investigations converge, Lainie’s not eager to work alongside Ben given their complicated history, but she’s willing to do so if it means figuring out what Stan knows and locating Evie. Soon, Lainie can’t deny Ben’s dedication to finding the truth or her growing admiration for him. And the more the two examine the evidence, the more they suspect Evie’s disappearance is tied to a highly publicized criminal case from Lainie’s past . . . and someone is playing a perilous game aimed at personal revenge.

Great for fans of thrillers by Lynette Eason, Colleen Coble, and Allison BrennanPolice procedural featuring a detective and an FBI agent written by a former police officerClean, stand-alone romantic suspense novel filled with high stakes, edge-of-your-seat adventure, elements of mystery, and themes of fighting for justiceIncludes discussion questions for book clubs

About the author:

A former Long Beach, California, police officer of twenty-two years, Janice Cantore worked a variety of

assignments, including patrol, administration, juvenile investigations, and training. She’s always enjoyed writing and published two short articles on faith at work for Cop and Christ and Today’s Christian Woman before tackling novels. Janice writes suspense novels designed to keep readers engrossed and leave them inspired. Her first series of novels is the Pacific Coast Justice series, featuring Carly Edwards in books Accused, Abducted and Avenged. Janice also authored the Brinna’s Heart series, which includes Critical Pursuit and Visable Threat. Her latest series is the Line of Duty series, featuring Crisis Shot, Lethal Target and the soon to be released Cold Aim www.janicecantore.com and connect with her on Facebook.

Review: Without a Clue

Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson
My rating: 💛💛💛

Without a clue is a difficult one for me to rate. I enjoyed it overall, and certain parts were intriguing and really pulled me in, especially trying to find the murderer, other times it felt a bit strange, almost a bit wacky and unbelievable.

The big reveal at the end I guessed from the start. There were a few hints which if you know what to look out for will give it away.

So yes, if you want a story which will really help you escape reality and give you a bit of a ride out of sanity, this book will be just that.

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


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About the book:

When a mystery writer mysteriously dies on a cruise filled with rabid fans, his protégé (and personal assistant) teams up with a rugged cowboy and fellow writer to crack the case. One part Only Murders in the Building, one part Book Lovers, and a whole lot of laughs, Without a Clue will keep readers guessing and swooning until the very end.

If there's one thing Penelope Mae Dupont prizes most, it's her composure--her ability to stay calm in the face of stress. It's a vital trait in her job as a personal assistant to renowned mystery author Hugh Griffin. But when Pip organizes a book cruise featuring The Fabulous Seven--seven celebrated authors from different genres who have supported each other through thick and thin--her famed composure is in danger of sailing away. One boat, hundreds of devoted readers, and seven Big Personalities. What could possibly go wrong?

Disaster strikes when, on the second day of the cruise, Hugh is found murdered. And, in the face of gross incompetence by the on-board security force, Pip realizes she'll need to be the one to discover who did it. With the ship stranded in the middle of the Atlantic and no help on the horizon, it's up to her to unravel the mystery. Along with her friend Nash--a dreamy Western author who's just as rugged as the cowboys he writes about. As Pip's composure starts to sink faster than a leaky dinghy, Nash becomes her anchor in a storm of clues and red herrings.

With Nash at her side, Penelope dives into the murky depths of the mystery, navigating treacherous waters filled with unexpected twists and turns. No one, not even a desperately hopeful mystery sleuth named Pip, could anticipate the wild ride ahead. Whether she likes it or not, she is on the adventure of a lifetime . . . and maybe, just maybe, she'll find love along the way.

In this laugh-out-loud funny Clue-meets-Emily-Henry rom-com, Penelope Mae Dupont is about to find out that in the world of mystery and romance, you have to risk going overboard to find the truth.

About the author:

Bestselling author Melissa Ferguson lives in Tennessee, where she enjoys chasing her children and writing

romantic comedies full of humor and heart. Her favorite hobby is taking friends and acquaintances and turning them into characters in her books without their knowledge.

Connect with her (and prepare for the possibility of becoming her next character) at:

Instagram: @our_friendly_farmhouse

TikTok: @ourfriendlyfarmhouse

Website: https://melissaferguson.com/

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


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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.*


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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.*


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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.*


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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.*


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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