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Friday, November 5, 2021

Review: Lights Out

Lights Out by Natalie Walters
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

I enjoyed Natalie Walters' first series, Harbored Secrets, but early on in this book I realised she upped her level of writing.

If you have read and loved this author's first series, you will not be disappointed. This book also includes emotionally broken characters who are steady in their faith, in search of answers, which I've come to love from the first series.

“There's going to be chaos and bad stuff happening in the world, and I believe we're called to take a stand against it. But when our trust lies in the control we think we have, we're saying we don't trust the One who is completely in control and completely good.”

But on top of that, the suspense and action was intense and kept me guessing. And if you are like me, who enjoy the focus on the suspense side more than the romance, this book will be to your liking.

All the members of the SNAP agency grabbed my attention, all for their unique qualities, and I liked Jack and Brynn, but Kekoa stole my heart. He is such a different and interesting characters and some of his antics and interruption tendencies had me laughing. I can't wait for his story in book 2.

“I'm living with Captain Turkey Burger, remember? His refrigerator is like that weird aisle at Whole Foods.”

The plot had it's own ending, so if you are not like me (OCD-Series needs to be read in order), you can read as a stand alone, but since this is book 1 of the series, I would jump in straight away to get to know the team and be ready for Kekoa's book coming in 2022.

If you are a fan of Lynette Eason, Terri Blackstock and Susan May Warren, be sure to pick up a copy of this book.

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

Review of Prequel: Initium

View all my reviews

About the book:

CIA analyst Brynn Taylor developed a new program to combat terrorism, and she invited members of foreign intelligence agencies to America to foster cooperation between countries. Now one of them, Egyptian spy Remon Riad, is missing.

Jack Hudson has been working for the Strategic Neutralization and Protection Agency (SNAP) for almost nine years and takes the lead in hunting down the missing spy. But he isn't at all pleased to find out Brynn is involved. It's hard to trust a woman who's already betrayed you.

Every lead they follow draws them dangerously deeper into an international plot. Kidnapping, murder, explosions, poisoning--the terrorists will do anything to accomplish their goal of causing a digital blackout that will blind a strategic US military communications center and throw the world into chaos.

Can Brynn surrender control to a man who doesn't trust her? And can Jack ever get over what she did to him? The fate of the world--and their hearts--hangs in the balance.

About the author:

Also see: Author Discovery: Natalie Walters

My world revolves around GIJOE and our three adult (or almost adult) children who keep my life anything but predictable. Our boots hit the ground wherever the Army sends us but home is when we’re all together no matter the zipcode. My passion is writing stories where adventure meets love and share my belief that life rooted in purpose is a story worth telling.

Friday, October 29, 2021

Book Spotlight Fridays! Survival and Lights Out

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 Freda's Voice 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.

Spotlighting the start of two new series this week. Both is suspenseful and I have I expectations for this series.

Survival

About the book:

Welcome to Shadow Ridge, where Longmire meets Jericho.

A dead body. A missing suspect. A town fighting for survival.

In today’s world, law enforcement agencies across the country rely on forensic tools, DNA testing, and crime labs. But what if that technology was suddenly no longer available? No one in the small, west Texas town of Shadow Ridge knows what took down the power grid, or when it’s going to be back up, but everyone knows exactly where they were the moment it went down. And now, with no electricity, no internet, and no modern technology, the men and women responsible for keeping the town safe are going to have to learn how to fight crime all over again.

When one of the men in charge of storing food for the town of Shadow Ridge is found murdered execution style, it’s up to Jace McQuaid to find the killer. What he discovers is a group of organized raiders who are stealing supplies and selling them on the black market—and the survival of the town depends on stopping them.

Morgan Addison’s estranged brother, Ricky, shows up at her house demanding weapons and confirming her fears that he’s a part of the outlaws. Tensions are raised further when Ricky kidnaps her son to ensure his safe passage out of town. Jace must find a way to save Noah and ensure the survival of Shadow Ridge.

~Survival is book one in the new Fallout series. Each novel contains a standalone mystery, but there are overarching stories that tie together the entire series.

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

Book Beginnings

Garrett McQuaid looked up into the barrel of the gun and knew at that moment he was going to die.

Friday 56

No, Shadow Ridge couldn't be where he settled down permanently. Someday this would all be over and he could go back to living his life. But what if his father was right? What if closing his heart to love ended up costing him everything?

My thoughts so far

Really liking this. What would you do if you can't buy food and depend on electricity? This one has some action and mysteries which I'm looking forward to solve.

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

Lights Out

About the book:

CIA analyst Brynn Taylor developed a new program to combat terrorism, and she invited members of foreign intelligence agencies to America to foster cooperation between countries. Now one of them, Egyptian spy Remon Riad, is missing.

Jack Hudson has been working for the Strategic Neutralization and Protection Agency (SNAP) for almost nine years and takes the lead in hunting down the missing spy. But he isn't at all pleased to find out Brynn is involved. It's hard to trust a woman who's already betrayed you.

Every lead they follow draws them dangerously deeper into an international plot. Kidnapping, murder, explosions, poisoning--the terrorists will do anything to accomplish their goal of causing a digital blackout that will blind a strategic US military communications center and throw the world into chaos.

Can Brynn surrender control to a man who doesn't trust her? And can Jack ever get over what she did to him? The fate of the world--and their hearts--hangs in the balance.

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

Book Beginnings

Seif El-Deeb watched the noisy trio of American boys cross the street away from Cairo American College.

Friday 56

Grovel? No Way. She did not grovel.

My thoughts so far

Natalie Walters is a newly published author, with this only being her second series. I'm only 17% in, but have a feeling that she upped her writing standard with this one.

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

Tuesday, September 28, 2021

Can't Wait Wednesday! Lights Out

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'm looking forward to this new series by Natalie Walters coming November 2nd. I'm expecting lots of action!

About the book: Lights Out

What are you waiting on this week?

Wednesday, April 5, 2023

Review: Blind Trust

Blind Trust by Natalie Walters
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

Rating 4.5

Blind Trust makes a 360 turn and connects it all with the Novella Initium, so if you have not yet read that novella, it might be good for the full picture to read the novella before picking up Blind trust.

I flew through this story. The plot with twists and turns created a nail-biting suspense, but it was the underlying chemistry between Lyla and Garcia, and Lyla’s tendency to run first and think later, which made me flip the pages as fast as I could.

Lyla’s insecurities of really belonging and being loved for her impulsive self was such an integral part of her actions. Readers got glimpses of who she was behind her bubbly bold personality. Garcia with his serious tough exterior had also so much more to give readers.

Kekoa still remained a favourite character and some of the banter in this book had me in smiles a lot.

I am sad to say goodbye to the Snap Agency, but Natalie Walters stepped it up with her second series and I am expecting more great stories from her in the future.

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

Review of Prequel: Initium

Review book 1: Lights out

Review book2: Fatal Code

View all my reviews

About the book:

Lyla Fox knows she has a reputation at the SNAP Agency for impulsivity, but when she receives a threatening letter from a man she helped put in prison, she can't stop herself from going all in to find out why he's coming after her. Unfortunately, she's going to need the help of the one person who questions her reckless choices more than anyone else.

Explosives and weapons specialist Nicol�s Garcia agrees to help Lyla in order to keep her safe, but her recklessness continues to be a major concern, especially when her investigation into a conspiracy puts a target on her back. Dealing with bombs is dangerous. Working with Lyla is proving to be just as treacherous--to both the mission and his heart.

Natalie Walters closes out her SNAP Agency series with a bang with this nail-biting story of a deadly government conspiracy, an unlikely couple, and an ending that will leave you breathless.

About the author:

Also see: Author Discovery: Natalie Walters

My world revolves around GIJOE and our three adult (or almost adult) children who keep my life anything but predictable. Our boots hit the ground wherever the Army sends us but home is when we’re all together no matter the zipcode. My passion is writing stories where adventure meets love and share my belief that life rooted in purpose is a story worth telling.

Thursday, October 14, 2021

Author Discovery: Natalie Walters

So, I first got introduced to Natalie Walters when her first book, Living Lies, came up as Read Now on Netgalley. To be 100% honest, I did enjoy her first book, but this new author had some big Romantic Suspense Names to live up to... Lynette Eason, Irene Hannon, Terri Blackstock, Colleen Coble and Susan May Warren, just to name a few favourites, so I added her name to follow, but at that point it was not a priority.

Lucky for me, I am OCD with series, so if I like a series I started, I definitely want to read all the books in the series, especially if it is in my favourite genre, Suspense. So, then I picked up Deadly Deceit and this author went on my Next to Buy list, which is basically my priority book list when I have money to spend.

Why did this author won me over, to add to favourites among the big names I listed above?

💜 Her characters is real - they have their own issues and challenges they need to work through and it was easy to connect to them.

💜 The banter between her characters was fun!

💜 Her suspense kept me guessing and the twists and turns was not expected!

💜 This author seems down to earth and has time to personally connect with her readers.

So, hopefully I intrigued you enough to try Natalie's books, but if you need some additional motivation, keep on reading for some interview questions Natalie answered:

Author Questions

1. Tell us, in two sentences, about you.

I’m married to my Army soldier who I affectionately call GIJOE and we have three adult children and a son-in-love. I love reading, writing, traveling, game nights, tea, and chocolate.

2. Who had the most influence in your life?

I would say my Gigipa. He’s no longer alive but when he was, he taught me to value family, creating memories, not to sweat the big stuff, and what true, unconditional, and sacrificial love is.

3. What is your greatest accomplishment to date?

Raising my kids. Being a parent isn’t easy and I’ve made plenty of mistakes along the way but I am incredibly proud of my children.

4. What is the biggest mistake you have made?

Not actually realizing how fleeting time is and getting caught up in the to-do’s of life instead of enjoying more time being present with my kids. There’s that quote, “The days are long but the years are short.” It’s so true, so if I could go back in time, I’d leave the dishes, laundry, chores, and play with my kids more, hug them more, read to them more, be with them more.

5. What do you love about the characters you create?

I love creating fun characters with their own sense of humor and flaws that make them vulnerable and so real I want to hang out with them in real life.

6. Why do you enjoy writing?

I think this goes back to why I love reading. I love being transported into a life that’s not my own. Experience new things through the words of a story and I love doing that in my writing too.

7. What genre do you enjoy reading?

Romantic suspense and contemporary romance

8. Which authors is on your auto-buy list and give a short reason why.

Joel C. Rosenburg, fast-paced political thrillers seemingly ripped from the headlines that make my heart pound.

Melissa Tagg, strong characters, swoony romance, fabulous cast of characters that literally make me wish they were real and I could visit them.

9. Why should readers read your books—what do you hope they learn from reading your stories?

I want readers to have fun when they read my books; to meet authentic characters who find their way into reader’s hearts; to experience exciting suspense; and to finish the book believing that hope exists through Christ no matter the circumstances any of us face.

10. Which of your books would you recommend a reader to start with?

Probably Living Lies since it’s my debut novel and the message within is personal and special to my family.

Or the first book in my new SNAP Agency series, Lights Out, which I think is just a really exciting plot and great team of characters.

11. Anything else you want readers to know about you?

Hanging out with readers is my favorite! They can find me on social media but I love getting to meet up in person too. Depending on where I travel, I’ll announce my location and meet up with local readers for a cup of tea and to chat all things life and books!

12. Preference:

Kindle/paperback/audio: Paperback

Coffee/tea: Tea (hot or cold)

Sweet/savory: Ooh, this is hard. Probably savory…but it depends on my mood!

Rain/sun: Both

Morning person/night owl: I’m definitely more productive in the morning but I love my sleep!

Favorite reading spot: In a comfy chair with a blanket and a cup of tea nearby. My family too, so long as they don’t interrupt me ;)

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Review: Fatal Code

Fatal Code by Natalie Walters
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

Rating 4.5

Faith requires trust.

This story had suspense, danger, fun, sweet romance and depth with Kekoa struggling with an event from his past and learning to let go and give it to God.

Ever since I closed the cover on book 1, I was looking forward and excited for Kekoa's story and I was not disappointed. The fun, Hawaiian guy from book one was back, but there was also so much more to him - not only did we see his fun humour again, but we could also see his struggles and regrets. I loved the scene with him and his dad in Maryland, it was such a deep and crucial event for Kekoa.

It wasn't through his own strength that he could let go, it was by leaning into the strength of the One so much bigger than the the hurt and the pain.

Elinor was a great fit to Kekoa and found herself in a mystery without realising she is in it. I liked how the author gave the reader inside information so we could see things before the characters got to that conclusion.

The suspense element was milder than book one, but it grew in intensity as the story developed and there was a few scenes which made me gasp, hold my breath, and scared for the characters.

Now, to get to see what is the story between Lyla and Garcia!

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

Review book 1: Lights out

View all my reviews

About the book:

In 1964, a group of scientists called the Los Alamos Five came close to finishing a nuclear energy project for the United States government when they were abruptly disbanded. Now the granddaughter of one of those five scientists, aerospace engineer Elinor Mitchell, discovers that she has highly sensitive information on the project in her possession--and a target on her back.

SNAP agent and former Navy cryptologist Kekoa Young is tasked with monitoring Elinor. This is both convenient since she's his neighbor in Washington, DC, and decidedly inconvenient because . . . well, he kind of likes her.

As Elinor follows the clues her grandfather left behind to a top-secret nuclear project, Kekoa has no choice but to step in. When Elinor learns he has been spying on her, she's crushed. But with danger closing in on all sides, she'll have to trust him to ensure her discoveries stay out of enemy hands.

Natalie Walters sucks you into the global race for space domination in this perfectly paced second installment of her SNAP Agency romantic suspense series.

About the author:

Also see: Author Discovery: Natalie Walters

My world revolves around GIJOE and our three adult (or almost adult) children who keep my life anything but predictable. Our boots hit the ground wherever the Army sends us but home is when we’re all together no matter the zipcode. My passion is writing stories where adventure meets love and share my belief that life rooted in purpose is a story worth telling.

Friday, October 8, 2021

Review: Initium

Initium by Natalie Walters
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

This was a great introduction to the SNAP team. For a Novella, the story did not feel rushed or short and I enjoyed the historical story playing out in Ireland. The author did a great job of showing the fun and adventure side of the CIA, but also the risk and loss.

Looking forward to the first book in the SNAP Agency series!

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

Until 2 November, if you pre-order book 1 in the SNAP series, you may claim this Novella as a free pre-order goody.

View all my reviews

About the book:

When an explosion rattled the cobblestone streets of Ireland in 1998, it left the CIA questioning one of their own, but Intel officer Tom Walsh refuses to believe his friend Sean is guilty. Tom is certain Sean wasn’t behind the misdirection of information that led to the deaths of dozens, but he’s missing and the CIA won’t go back to find him or the truth.

Unwilling to let Sean become a scapegoat for a botched mission, Tom quits the CIA and takes an unsanctioned contract job with the hopes of finding his friend and those responsible for the deadly attack. But when the new mission goes awry, Tom finds himself in a battle against an Irish dissident paramilitary group determined to strike again.

With only a hunch to go on and a red-headed bartender’s help, Tom puts himself in the path of danger and discovers his own passion for stepping in where the government can’t.

Get ready for Lights Out with this glimpse into the life of the man behind the SNAP Agency and what pushed him to find a better way to strategically protect and neutralize threats against America and her citizens. In this fast-paced novella you’ll meet Director Walsh as he assembles his team: Jack Hudson, Lyla Fox, Nicolás Garcia, and Kekoa Young.

About the author:

My world revolves around GIJOE and our three adult (or almost adult) children who keep my life anything but predictable. Our boots hit the ground wherever the Army sends us but home is when we’re all together no matter the zipcode. My passion is writing stories where adventure meets love and share my belief that life rooted in purpose is a story worth telling.

Monday, December 27, 2021

Top Ten Tuesday: Best Books I Read In 2021

Join in the Top Ten Tuesday fun! Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together.

I have read so many books in 2021 (about 150), so how do you select the top 10? There is so many I would recommend! But lets try (okay, and yes, I will cheat a bit here and there by highlighting series as well 😊):

1. The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone Series

By far the best series I've read this year! Series Discovery Post

2. The Bowers Files - The New York Years Series

Finally read and Loved this series about serial killers. This series was published later, but is the prequel series to the Patrick Bowers Files (see nr 3 below). Series Discovery Post

3. The Patrick Bowers Files Series

This series, and the prequel is great on audio as well. Series Discovery Post

4. Come back to Me

Time Travel was a new genre I tried in 2021 and totally enjoyed it. Review

5. When Twilight Breaks

I absolutely Loved this Historical fiction. Review

6. Montana Marshall Series

This series was great and needs to be read in order! Series Discovery Post

7. Lights Out

I've enjoyed this author's first series. But this new series started at a higher standard! Review

8. Saving Mrs. Roosevelt

Another great historical fiction I really enjoyed. Review

9. Danger Never Sleeps Series

Lynette Eason never disappoints me and this series was another 5-star one! Series Discovery Post

10. Redeeming Love

I've reread this one a few times and it always remains a great read! Review

11. To Treasure an Heiress

I loved this one, all thanks to Sheridan! Review

12. Stone

Waited for this one for over a year and was not disappointed. Review

Monday, June 28, 2021

Top Ten Tuesday: Most Anticipated Books of the Second Half of 2021

Again, there is so many new releases I'm excited for which will be released in the second half of 2021. Here is 10 of them:

1. The Scarlet Pen - releasing July 1st

2. The Chase - releasing July 6th

3. Hostile Intent - releasing August 3rd

4. Set in Stone - releasing August 10th

5. Hanging by a moment - releasing September 14th

6. Labyrinth of Lies - releasing October 5th

7. Blood from Stone - releasing October 5th

8. Deadly Target - releasing November 2nd

9. Lights Out - releasing November 2nd

10. Heart of Stone - releasing November 23rd

TOP TEN for 1st half of 2021 Update:

The following was the top 10 books of the first 6 months I was excited about. So lets see if I've read it or need to still get to!

My Top 10:

The following books will be released in the next 6 months on which I really want to read:

A few of my favourite suspense authors will be releasing new books:

1. Active Defense

Read it and loved it! See review

2. Aftermath - still to read

Terri Blackstock is an auto buy. I love her suspense and looking forward to this one!

3. Three missing days - still to read

Okay, so I still need to read book two, but totally excited to continue this series!

4. Unknown Threat

Read it! See Review

Other releases

5. On the Cliffs of Fixglove Manor - still to read

I always enjoy Jaime Jo Wright's darker feel to her mysteries.

6. Cast the First Stone

Read it! See Review

10. From this moment - still to read

I haven't yet read a book by Kim Vogel Sawyer I haven't enjoy. This cover is so beautiful and I'm sure the story will be as well.

And two extras:

11. Dreams of Savannah - still to read

Roseanna M White always gives me a great balance of regency romance with some mystery.

12. Legal Intent - still to read

Cara Putman writes thrilling legal suspense and I'm looking forward to reading her latest.

Monday, November 15, 2021

Top Ten Tuesday: Books to Read If You Love Suspense/Romantic Suspense

If you have followed my blog or reviews on Goodreads for a while, you will know my favourite genre is Suspense/Romantic suspense. So, if you also enjoy books which keeps you on the edge of your seat, here is some of my 10 top favourites (I tried to select one per author):

1. If I Run

Make sure you have all the books in this series. One of the best series by this author.