Keeper of the Stars (A Kings Meadow Romance) by Robin Lee Hatcher

About the book: Forgiveness is the only cure for heartbreak.  But can Penny forgive the man she holds responsible for her brother’s death?  When her mother died from pneumonia, Penny Cartwright was heartbroken.  But now, after burying her younger brother just 12 years later, she is devastated.  Anger, guilt, and sorrow cloud Penny’s mind, and the last thing she wants is to be reminded of her pain – but that’s exactly what happens when a stranger comes to town.

Trevor Reynolds has been chasing fame for more than a dozen years, but his musical career can’t get off the ground.  While on the road, an accident kills his young drummer, Brad Cartwright. Trevor wasn’t behind the wheel, but he still blames himself…and so does Brad’s sister, Penny.  Now Trevor finds himself in Kings Meadow, determined to follow through on his final promise to his friend.

Still feeling the pain of Brad’s death, Penny and Trevor must learn that forgiveness is the only thing that can heal their hearts.  And if they do forgive, something beautiful may rise from the ashes of heart break.

Review: Keeper of the Stars is the third book in the series A Kings Meadow Romance by Robin Lee Hatcher.  I have not read any of the other books in this series and as I found out, you do not have to have read the other books before reading Keeper of the Stars.  There is no confusion of the characters or storyline.

When I started reading Keeper of the Stars, I anticipated it to be your typical romance novel and while it didn’t have any great surprises, it was very enjoyable to read.  I found myself sympathizing with both Penny and Trevor in how they were dealing with the loss of a brother and a friend.  I like how the author had “flashbacks” from the brother’s perspective that filled in details of why Brad was with Trevor when he died and also why he wanted Trevor to go to Kings Meadow.

Even though the book is fiction, there is nothing fictional about the way Robin Lee Hatcher writes about the forgiveness of God.  It is woven through each chapter of this book.  True forgiveness only comes from God and can only be extended to others through the help of God.  The author makes this very clear in her writings and I enjoyed that aspect as much as the actual story and characters.

“Keeper of the Stars” is a keeper! (rev. P.Howard)

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/20EmYLy

Read a sample chapter: http://bit.ly/1X0pYQ6

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DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group to facilitate this review. Opinions are those of the reviewer. No compensation was received.

Step by Step (Crisis Team) by Candace Calvert

About the book: Three years after a tragic accident left her a widow, ER nurse Taylor Cabot is determine to move on, checking off one item on her Survival List after another.  Her relationship with a handsome plastic surgeon even gives her hope for the last point – “fall in love again.”  At least until crisis chaplain Seth Donovan steps back into her life, reawakening unanswered questions about her husband’s death.

While in San Diego to train community volunteers, Seth hopes to learn why Taylor is backing away from the crisis team and from their friendship.  But nothing prepares him for the feelings that arise when he sees Taylor again…and sees her moving on with another man.

When a community crisis hits home and puts lives at risk, emotions run high and buried truths are unearthed.  Will hope make the Survival List?

Review: Step by Step is the second book in the Crisis Team series written by Candace Calvert.

When I started reading this book, I did not realize this was a series, much less the second book in that particular series.  However that did not keep me from enjoying this book.  The characters are easy to like or dislike and the story line is not too challenging to follow.

Candace Calvert knows “her stuff” when it comes to writing medical mysteries and Step by Step does not disappoint.  Good, clean fiction books are getting harder and harder to find.  Candace Calvert is an author you can depend upon to give you good characters and good story lines; and when an author also includes in her writings the underlying note that ultimately God is in control, then that is a win-win all around and Step by Step falls in this win-win category. (rev. P.Howard)

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by the author to facilitate this review. Opinions are those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

Double Cross (FBI Houston Series Book 2) by DiAnn Mills

About the book:  FBI Agent Laurel Evertson's investigation into a scam targeting the elderly takes an unexpected twist when key evidence leads her to Morton Wilmington, a felon she arrested five years ago on her first undercover assignment. That case has haunted her since, and though she's vowed to forget Wilmington--and what she sacrificed to put him away--he is now her best lead.Houston Police Officer Daniel Hilton fears his grandparents may be the scammer's next targets, and he'll do anything to protect his family--even force interagency cooperation. But he's quickly drawn to Laurel's empathy and zeal and agrees to follow her lead . . . even if it means teaming up with a felon.As the unlikely trio uncovers evidence suggesting the scam is more extensive and deadly than they imagined, both Laurel and Daniel find themselves in the crosshairs of a killer. Together they must decide if they can trust Wilmington's claims of redemption, or if he's leading them straight into a double cross.

Review: Double Cross captures the reader's attention with the involved, fast faced suspense tale where the FBI and local police work together to solve a scam that turns deadly.

This story involves undercover work with felons, charity scammers duping vulnerable senior citizens, and heroes turned bad.The depth of deception is not revealed until the final pages. A good read where Christian faith is presented as a source of strength and in a felon character who found redemption while in prison. A sweet blossoming romance is part of the story as well.

Author DiAnn Mills Website Author Facebook

DiAnn Mills talks about working with the FBI to research the FBI: Houston Series

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by Tyndale Blog Network on behalf of the publisher Tyndale Fiction to facilitate this review. Opinions are those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

By Your Side is book 1 in The Crisis Team Series by Candace Calvert (Review & Giveaway)

ER nurse Macy Wynn learned essential, gritty lessons in the California foster care system: land on your feet and trust no one. She’s finally located the fellow foster child she loves like a sister, but the girl’s in deep trouble. Macy’s determined to help, no matter what it takes. Her motto is to “make it happen” in any situation life throws at her—even when she butts heads with an idealistic cop.

Deputy Fletcher Holt believes in a higher plan, the fair outcome—and his ability to handle that by himself if necessary. Now he’s been yanked from Houston, his mother is battling cancer, and he’s attracted to a strong-willed nurse who could be the target of a brutal sniper.

Review: When trained nurse turned successful novelist considers crisis situations, you have a series of books called Crisis Team emerge. Calvert creates realistic and heroic yet human characters out of ER nurses and physicians, chaplains, EMS personnel, and law enforcement personnel.

As this unjoined team works to heal and relieve the stresses of their professions and the cruelties of life and keep the community a safe place in which to live, a lone gunman stalks his prey. Lives are lost randomly and he can’t seemingly be found.

What happens when the healers both of physical and emotional  injuries need help themselves? Who is their helper? What happens when those trying to build a life have their dreams and hopes shattered.

Woven into the thread of the Crisis Team’s very lives is a gentle thread of romance. A blossoming and tender story that is sure to capture the interest of man or woman alike as they cruise the pages of By Your Side.

Who doesn’t love a bit of romance, touch of suspense, and medical or emergency crisis all mixed together. Candace Calvert has brought us another well-written story from her plethora of experience.

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DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

The Secret of Pembrooke Park By: Julie Klassen

Review: Abigail Foster is the oldest of two daughters. She was the practical daughter and loved helping her dad with the financial aspect of their life. Her younger sister Louisa was more into fashion and finding the right suitor. When Abigail's life long friend Gilbert shows interest in Louisa it breaks Abigail's heart. She was just sure that the night of his going away party Gilbert was going to ask her to marry him. Instead he tells her not to shackle herself to him while he is away.That was just the start of shocking events to come.

Abigail had talked her father into investing their money in her Uncle's new banks. However the bank had to claim bankruptcy which led to the Foster's funds being low. They had to start making decisions to sell their house and other possessions. Abigail felt as if it was her fault. She willingly gave up her dowry and made finding new living arrangements her top priority.  One day a man named Mr. Arbeau came by the Foster house with a very interesting offer. He tells them that they have a distant relative that has an old manor house and is offering them to live there. The relative wants to keep his identity
hidden and wants the Foster's to know that they are not inheriting the house but cleaning it up and giving it life. The house is known as Pembrook Park.  Mr. Foster decides that the  timing couldn't not be more perfect.

Mr. Foster and Abigail head to Pembrooke Park and are shocked to see how run down it looks. They have a lot of work to do. While looking around a man comes out with a gun. He lets them know that he was once the caretaker and has made it his priority to keep theives and treasure hunters away. Mr. Foster assures him that they are not here for any treasures and tells him their reason for coming. The care taker introduces himself as Mac Chapman and lets them know that he will still be a part of keeping the manor safe.  Mac also tells them that he will be in charge of hiring their staff. He lets them know that they should not believe all that they hear around town.

The first night Abigail is awakened by strange noises. She feels as if some one is sneaking around the other rooms. When she awakes the next morning she is met with a letter that seems more like a journal entry.This letter contains information about a secret room, hidden treasures, and money. Abigail is now very interested in finding out the mysteries and back ground of the house and the family that used to live there.  While doing this she becomes friends with the son and daughter of Mac Chapman. They become very close after Abigail shows them they can trust her. Through their friendship the history of the manor is revealed.

Julie Klassen is one of my favorite authors and she didn't disappoint me in this book. She grabbed me from the beginning and had me until the last page.  This book was full of mystery. There were times when you thought you knew what was about to happen but were surprisingly off. You fell in love with the characters right away. I would recommend this book to women of all ages.(reviewed by S.Wall)

Read an excerpt - click here

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided to facilitate this review from the publisher, Bethany House a division of Baker Publishing Group. Opinions expressed are those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

The Healer's Touch by Lori Copeland

ISBN: 9780736956536 

About the book: Lyric Bolton desires friendship and acceptance from her Missouri community. Instead, her family is regarded with suspicion and fear because of her mother's mental illness. Resigned to living in isolation, Lyric doesn't see any way out---until Ian Cawley bolts into her life on a runaway stallion. But what will happen when he discovers her secrets?

My thoughts: I do enjoy Lori Copeland’s books and she has written a lot of them. The Healer’s Touch was not a favorite of mine, though. I felt the title somewhat misleading as I anticipated a character who truly had a healer’s touch in that they were helpful with people’s injuries and sicknesses. That was not the case in the story.

Secondly, while folklore is replete with a variety of “lights” and things that go-bump-in-the-night, this story capitalized on a “spooklight” legend from the mountains. I felt it was a bit overplayed and overdone as far as its inclusion into the story.

The characters were nicely fleshed out and seemed to fill the bill of “hillbilly” mountain folks. Lyric was the female lead and a devoted daughter. She was hard working and fell in love with the stranger, Ian, who literally came bolting into her life. My favorite characters were Lark (sister to Lyric) and Boots (friend of Lark’s). There two were into everything, totally preteen-mountain-kids, and so very funny. You’ll literally chuckle at some of their conversations and actions.

So what do I think about The Healer’s Touch? I think it is a good book to read. Clean. Funny. Characters that put God first and who have compassionate hearts. I can easily recommend it for a light, easy read. It just wasn’t one of my favorite Lori Copeland books.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by Harvest House Publishing in exchange for this review. Opinions are those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

(Review & Giveaway) Farewell, Four Waters…A Novel based on True Events…One aid worker’s sudden escape from Afghanistan by Kate McCord {Review & Giveaway}

About the book: In 14 days, the life she knew would end on the streets of Kabul.  All Marie needed was a few stamps and signatures – the mandatory paperwork necessary for the Afghan government – and she could hold literacy classes in the rural town of Shektan.  Her hope:  Afghan women would learn to read.

Suddenly, shots resonated.  An aid worker killed at an intersection in Kabul.  The community scattered.
 Most decided to say farewell.  Not Marie; she chose to stay, to teach.  But she was unaware that this choice would make her a pawn at the center of a local feud.  Kidnapping was Marie’s worst fear.  She didn’t know treachery was more deadly.

Farewell, Four Waters is based on actual events the author and other aid workers faced in Afghanistan in 2008.  See through their eyes the dangers faced globally even today.

Review: This is an excellent book.  I was so intrigued by the author’s story – her desire to be in Afghanistan, to help the women and to also share truth about Jesus – to live in a country where women are viewed in a much lower way than we could ever possibly know as citizens of the United States.

The author shows us we can and should depend upon the Lord for guidance and protection; and while this is not the main topic of the book, it is a thread that runs throughout her story.  The author takes us into the country and beyond just what we may see on the evening news.  She shares with us the friendships she built, the deep sadness of leaving the country and the ultimate horror of watching innocent people being killed for little to no reason.

Farewell, Four Waters is the second book written by Kate McCord.  It is a sequel to In the Land of Blue Burqas and I will be reading it as soon as I can.  If it is anything like Farewell, Four Waters, I will not be disappointed and will perhaps have an greater understanding of the people in Afghanistan and an encouragement to pray for that country.

We take for granted all that we have here in the United States and think that a little trouble is great tragedy.  We do not have to worry about persecution for expressing our beliefs.  If we are persecuted, it is so small in comparison that it cannot be called persecution.  I highly recommend this book to our High School students and desire that through their reading of this story,  they may realize how very fortunate they are to be a citizen of the United States of America!

GIVEAWAY is open for USA & Canada for a print copy of Farewell Four Waters. Begins Dec. 12 & ENDS January 5 @ 12:01 a.m. ET.
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About Kate McCord: Kate McCord, a protective pseudonym, lived and worked in Afghanistan from 2005 to 2010. During her years in country, she worked as a humanitarian aid worker, delivering projects to benefit the people of Afghanistan. She also learned the local language and developed deep and lasting friendships with local Afghans. After evacuating from her home in Afghanistan, Kate transitioned into a mentoring, training, consulting and coaching role to other workers serving in the region. Prior to moving to Afghanistan, she worked in the international corporate community as a business process and strategy consultant. Today, Kate serves Christ through writing, speaking, mentoring and conducting workshops and seminars.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by Side Door Communications in exchange for our review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

In Perfect Time by Sarah Sundlin

About the book: Bold, sophisticated, and flirtatious, Army Air Force flight nurse Lt. Kay Jobson collects hearts wherever she flies, leaving men pining in airfields all across Europe. So how can ruggedly handsome C-47 pilot Lt. Roger Cooper be all but immune to her considerable charms? In fact, he seems to do everything he can to avoid her. Still, as they cross the skies between Italy and southern France, evacuating the wounded and delivering paratroopers and supplies, every beat of their hearts draws them closer to where they don't want to go. Can they confront the fears and misunderstandings in their pasts? Review:  Sarah Sudin is an author whose research into the World War II period can be depended upon and she brings a wealth of rich history to her stories. In Perfect Time brings the 802nd Medical air Evacuation Transport Squadron to the forefront.  A real event that is brought to life in the book (novel) is a crash landing and ultimate rescue in Albania in Nazi-occupied territory. Events aboard the 64th Troop Carrier become real.  There are true scenes strewn throughout this story of war and romance. There is more romance and intense flirting involved in this story that I care to recommend unless it is for mature readers. That is not to say it is vulgar or steamy, it just reveals girl/boy or woman/man relationships that I believe is best not read by our teenage girls. Visit Sarah Sudin’s Pinterestboard for In Perfect Time to see some of the World War II pictures and information she garnered in her research. About the author: Sarah Sundin is the author of With Every Letter and the Wings of Glory series. In 2011, A Memory Between Us was a final ist in the Inspirational Reader's Choice Awards, and Sarah received the Writer of the Year Award at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. A graduate of UC San Francisco School of Pharmacy, she works on call as a hospital pharmacist. During WWII, her grandfather served as a pharmacist's mate (medic) in the Navy and her great-uncle flew with the US Eighth Air Force in England. Sarah lives in California with her husband and three children. Find Sarah online: website, Facebook, Twitter

For more reviews about In Perfect Time

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for this review. Opinions expressed are the reviewer's alone. No compensation was received for this review.

Circle of Spies by Roseanna M. White

ISBN-13: 9780736951036

O.k. history lovers, this story involves the Culper Spy Ring during the American Civil War. The author has previously written two books involving the Culper Ring during other periods of history. 

Now a question for you, my Reader's Haven Reviews readers….. 

• “What do you know of the Culper Spy Ring?” 
• “How did it actually begin?” 
• “Is it alive and well today?”  

Here are links to tantalize you into doing a bit of internet (or perhaps public library) research - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culper_Ring and another from Mike the History Guy.

In Circle of Spies we encounter a flirtatious widow, a Pinkerton Detective, a cruel railroad owner, a free-black and his slave wife and child, and a host of others who flesh out this journey into the days leading up to the end of the war and the assassination of President Lincoln.

I found the book a bit plodding at times and then a bit too romantic at times. But as it was gaining momentum it garnered my interest better. It romped to a finality (we all know the President was assassinated) with a wild train ride, a tied and gagged heroine, and hidden treasure. A good book and worth the plodding moments. I especially enjoyed Slade (Pinkerton Detective).

I liked that the heroine came to faith and trust in her Savior and found she could trust His forgiveness in her life.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by Harvest House Publishers in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

When I Fall in Love – a Christiansen Family novel by Susan May Warren

About the book (back of book):  Hawaii was the last place Grace Christiansen ever imagined she’d vacation, much less fall in love.  But when her family surprises her with a cooking retreat in paradise, she is pulled – or maybe yanked – away from her predictable, safe life and thrown headfirst into the adventure of a lifetime.

Maxwell Sharpe may make his living on the ice as a pro hockey player, but he feels most at home in the kitchen.  Which is why he lives for the three-week culinary vacation he takes each year in Hawaii.  Upon being paired with Grace for a cooking competition, Max finds himself drawn to her passion, confidence, and perseverance.  But just when Grace dares to dream of a future beyond her hometown, Max pulls away.

Wrestling with personal demons, Max fights against opening his heart to a love he knows he should never hope for.  And as his unfold, Grace is torn between the safe path in front of her and what her heart truly desires.  If love means sacrificing her ideal happily ever after, Grace’s faith will face its toughest test yet.

Review: When I Fall in Love is the third book in a series called Christiansen Family novels.  In fact, it is the first book I have read written by Susan May Warren.  I will not hesitate to read any of her other books!  One of the things I liked about this book is that I didn’t feel that I had to have read the first two to know the characters.

I found this book easy to read and very engaging.  The setting of the story – Hawaii – what could be better and who doesn’t love food!  I enjoyed the way the author wrote about the faith and how a relationship with the Lord is the answer to handling life’s challenges.  The main characters, Max and Grace, were very likable, relatable and believable.   While at times I wish Grace had been a little stronger and Max had shown a little more faith, I found myself recognizing that this very sentiment applies to all Christians at some point in their walk with Christ.

When I Fall in Love is simply a good book!

Read more reviews of When I Fall In Love - CLICK HERE

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary review copy was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of Susan May Warren, author, and the publisher in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

The Imagination Station: Captured on the High Seas by Marianne Hering and Nancy Sanders

Review: I read The Imagination Station: Captured on the High Seas by Marianne Hering and Nancy Sanders. Focus on the Family does another great job with an adventure story in this book. We meet the two heroes as they are on their way back home, but suddenly get thrown into another adventure.

The story takes place at sea during the American Revolution where our two heroes are captured by the British and taken to a slave ship. Along the way, they try to frustrate the British Navy any way they can. One neat aspect to the story is our heroes meeting two other people who are real characters from American history. The book gives a clear picture of what life was like for the captured during this time.

This book is a quick read and part of a series that children will enjoy. My daughter read the book, and she really enjoyed it!(Reviewed by B.Lyles)

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher, Tyndale House,  in exchange for our honest review. No compensation was received for this review.

Raptor 6 by Ronie Kendig (Review & Giveaway)

ISBN: 978-1-61626-0408

About the book: Captain Dean Watters keeps these parts of his life in laser-like focus. So when hackers threaten both his mission and his team, Dean's Special Forces training kicks into high gear. Ten military super-secure computers are missing-which if opened, would give America's enemies a blueprint of US military intelligence. Failing to stop the hackers isn't an option.

Zahrah Zarrick is a missionary teacher to Afghan children in Mazar-e Sharif. She's also a target. Her expertise in quantum cryptology makes her an unwitting pawn in the hackers' deadly game. They're coming for her, and Dean and his team must stop them.

Before the team can get to Zahrah, she disappears. Now Dean must race to rescue her and stop the hackers from unleashing terror on millions across the globe. But to do so, Dean will be forced to crack open the steel box around his heart-a move that might come at the highest cost.

Review: This is an interesting story that is centered around a Green Beret Special Forces team. The team is working in Afghanistan. The author did a great job in making the action of the story feel very real. She even helped describe what life is like there and the tensions between Afghan people and American soldiers. 

The plot centers around the theft of a super computer that contains information that can be used to bring down the American military and wreak havoc on the nation. A half American half Afghan woman who is the daughter of a retired American General is kidnapped. She has the expertise to hack into the stolen computer, and her captors will stop at nothing to get her to give them access to the computer. There is a love story between the leader of the Special Forces team and this woman. 

A sub-plot to the story involves one of the members of the team going back to the states to spend the last days of his newlywed wife suffering from cancer.  

Scattered throughout the novel are elements where different people reveal their personal walks with God. Plenty is found in this story to show people’s dependence on God. 

The language is very clean considering the dialogue of soldiers. This would be a great book for teenagers interested in fictional stories centered around military operations. It is a good read and a quick read. At first, I had trouble keeping up with the many characters introduced almost all at once. Often, the author uses military acronyms, but she includes a glossary at the front of the book to understand them all. The book ends openly revealing there are more books to follow within the series. (guest reviewer, B.Lyles, teacher and band instructor)

GIVEAWAY: A copy has been provided by Litfuse for one of our readers to win. Begins June 10 & ENDS July 2 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. Open for US addresses only.

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About the author: Ronie Kendig is an award-winning, bestselling author who grew up an Army brat. After twenty-plus years of marriage, she and her hunky hero husband have a full life with four children and a Maltese Menace in northern Virginia. Author and speaker, Ronie loves engaging readers through her Rapid-Fire Fiction. Ronie can be found at www.roniekendig.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/xoyE1

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of the author and publisher in exchange for a review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

Deeper Than Red (Book #3 in Red Returning Series) by Sue Duffy

• ISBN-13: 9780825442674

About the book: Twenty-year-old Tally Greyson isn’t consumed with her own education, social life, or career goals like most young women her age. Instead, she’s trying to save her mother from the grasp of a seductive cult. What Tally doesn’t realize is that in this community, there’s a far greater danger than any she can imagine—and she and her mother aren’t the only ones in its sights. There are plots brewing here that will threaten the fate of the world.

Concert pianist Liesl Bower has put her own dangerous past behind her, and in her Charleston family home, surrounded by those who love her, she’s preparing for a world concert tour with her dear friend, violinist Max Morozov. She thinks she’s safe; the man who tried to kill her is dead, his coconspirators have been rounded up, and no one knows she had anything to do with saving the world from a new revolution.

That is, until a world leader is assassinated on the other side of the globe, setting events into motion that could kill the U.S. president, destroy Washington—and take everything and everyone Liesl loves with it. A madman is at the controls now. Even with the backup of the CIA and the dubious protection of a former KGB agent, this time they may all be too late. The heart-pounding final book in the Red Returning trilogy, Deeper Than Red goes further into the world of espionage and action than ever before, delving into the very worst powers of darkness, and pitting them against the light of faith, love, and forgiveness.

Review: This book would be great for anyone who loves adventure or spy thrillers.  There was much going on, with several different scenarios at the same time.  The book has several settings in America, as well as Europe.  The author did a very good job of telling about the characters and the back story behind each of them.

The main character is a pianist, Liesl, who was brought into the spy world by accident.  She is a very brave heroine and does what she can to stand for what is right.  She is a Christian and often prays for those around her.

One of the characters is entrenched in a spiritualist camp and her daughter is desperately trying to save her.  Even though this is a fictional book, I know there are people who believe in psychics and have séances and this part of the story is very real.  There is a Christian man in the camp who is watching out for the daughter and tries to get her to see the Light and help her save her mom.

The international ties in the book are between the president of the United States and his half brother, a Russian, who was an illegitimate son of his father.

There are many other characters who add to the excitement of this book.  Two of my favorites are the father of Liesl and her husband's grandfather.  They are a pair and do what they can to help protect Leisl.

I really enjoyed this book and want to go read the first two in the series! (reviewed by T.Lyles, teacher)

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by Kregel Publications in exchange for our review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was for this review.

Life Support (Grace Medical Series #3) by Candace Calvert

As the third installment in the Grace Medical Series, Life Support doesn’t disappoint. Author Candace Calvert has drawn again on her personal professional medical experience and expertise to develop real-to-life events and solutions involving believable characters whom she fully develops and brings to life.

Life Support deals with intense subjects cushioned with a sweet, downplayed romance. We see the case of mental illness and how it impacts individuals, families, and the work place as well as those involved in the treatment of the condition.

Spiritual issues are somewhat lightly dealt with but in a truly Biblical fashion that involves grace. It is a pleasure to read intense, medical suspense written by a Christian author and dealt with in such a way that you are not ashamed to share with a teen or grandmother.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review/

Storming the Black Ice: Pacific Rim Series by Don Brown (Author of the Navy Justice Series)

Zondervan
ISBN:  9780310330165

About the book:  When a Venezuelan surprise-attack against a secret British research station in Antarctica triggers a shooting war between the great nations, Chile and Britain ask America for help. For two couples separated by the raging battle, the outcome will be either love reunited or devastating heartbreak. When British geologists secretly discover the world’s largest oil reserves under the desolate, icy tundra of Antarctica, Britain and Chile form a top-secret alliance against Venezuela, Argentina, and Russia for control of resources that will rival the economic power of OPEC. But the secret of the discovery is soon uncovered by an Argentinean intelligence officer using highly sophisticated monitoring equipment. When a Venezuelan surprise-attack against a secret British research station in Antarctica triggers a shooting war between the great nations, Chile and Britain ask America for help.

For two couples separated by the raging battle, the outcome will be either love reunited or devastating heartbreak. There is no in-between and no turning back.

For a young boy living with his mother in London, the life of the boy’s father and mother’s long-lost love is on the line. And for an American sub commander detailed on a special military assignment to his father’s homeland of Chile, any hope of a future is in danger. But will his fate be a crushing death under the icy-cold waters of the Antarctic Ocean, or a fate of life, light, and a second chance for love?

  
Review:  This is a very well written story whose greatest appeal will most assuredly be men. While women can enjoy it, the plot which is intricately woven throughout with scenes of naval action on submarines. Conflict militarily. Abuse of prisoners. Descriptions replete with strategic maneuvers and the complexities of South America and Antarctica geography and political atmosphere. References to the Falkland Island war of 30 years past are important to this story. International intrigue that span oceans and continents.

The romantic by play is a very minor subplot though it does exist and is part of the story.

The supposition and potential of a real "Black Ice" scenario is not a far cry from what could happen. Men and the nations they inhabit are greedy and often it takes the conflict of warfare to control that greed. The book will surely be enjoyable by those who delight in a submarine thriller. I found the following scene moving. The setting: An opposing submarine has just been sunk....

     Pete took the shipwide microphone. "Now hear this.This is the captain speaking. Both active and passive sonar have verified that the enemy sub has been destroyed."
     Cheering erupted throughout the sub.
     "Silence!" Pete demanded.
     The cheering stopped.
     "There will be no cheering, no reveling, no applause for what we have done. For what we have done is our duty. We have defeated a worthy opponent and taken the life of a great warrior who, if he had an extra second or two on his side, would have killed us first. He battled gallantly, commanding a boat that is inferior to ours.
     "There is no rejoicing at the death of a warrior. Only by the grace of God are we still alive, and only by his grace did we have weapons of war that were superior to the weapons of the enemy.
     "Join me in a moment of silence and remembrance."
     More sounds of grinding, whining metal over passive sonar--the death sounds of a sub falling to its watery grave.
     "That is all. This is the captain."

A very intense book sure to capture the attention of someone who desires a griping and intense read.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary review copy was provided by BookLook Blog Review Program in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed were solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review. (Rev. VG)

Beyond These Hills by Sandra Robinson

ISBN: 9780736948883
Harvest House Publishers

About the book:  It's 1935, and Laurel Jackson fears the life she's always known is about to become a memory. The government is purchasing property to establish the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and nearly all the families in Cades Cove have decided to sell. Laurel is determined to save the land her family has lived on for a hundred years.

Andrew Brady, the son of a wealthy Virginia congressman, arrives in the Cove to convince the remaining landowners to sell. Sparks fly when he meets Laurel, the outspoken young woman who is determined to thwart his every effort. Will they ever be able to put aside their differences and accept what their hearts already know?

In the third and final book in the Smoky Mountain Dreams series, acclaimed author Sandra Robbins brings a dramatic conclusion to the story of the families of Cades Cove.

Review:  This was one of those books that you pick up and then cannot put down until you have read the last page.  In it you will find a beautiful love story, conflict, a glimpse into history, and the overarching theme that God is in control of all things and uses those "all things" for our good and His Glory.

Laurel Jackson and her family live in the community of Cades Cove in the Great Smokey Mountains of Tennessee. The year is 1934 and the US government is moving ahead with the developmental of the National Park system - no matter who is affected.  Laurel's family has lived on this land for over a hundred years and the thoughts of loosing her beloved home is more than Laurel can bear.  Then arrives Andrew Brady, son of a Virginia congressman, who has been hired by the government to persuade the remaining landowners to sell.  Upon initially meeting Laurel there is an immediate attraction, but of course, neither knows about the conflict about to ensue over the land that Laurel loves so dearly.

Through various circumstances including great tragedy,  the families come to realize that they must leave.  Laurel and Andrew cannot escape the attraction they feel, but how can they pursue any relationship in the midst of such differences?  Yet, God who is full of grace and wisdom, directs in every circumstance to use all the details of life for His glory.

Read and enjoy this dramatic historic fiction by Sandra Robinson. (rev.  J. La Tour)

DISCLOSURE:  A complimentary copy of Beyond These Hills was provided by Harvest House Publishers in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn By Lori Benton

ISBN13: 9780307731494

About the book:  Western North Carolina, 1787 ~ To escape a threatening stepfather and an unwanted marriage, Tamsen Littlejohn enlists the aid of Jesse Bird, a frontiersman she barely knows, to spirit her away from Morganton, North Carolina, west beyond the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Review:  After only one meeting with her expected suitor, Tamsen Littlejohn is confident that Ambrose Kincaid will turn out much like her harsh and demanding stepfather, Hezekiah Parrish.  Ambrose is handsome, socially polished, and the heir of his wealthy grandfather, Alexander Kincaid.  But soon after their first meeting, Tamsen sees in Ambrose, a cruelness of character not unlike her hateful stepfather.  Taking matters into her own hands, Tamsen decides to escape a potentially disastrous arranged marriage to a man she does not love.  She escapes her would-be suitor and her stepfather by enlisting the help of a frontiersman from the western part of North Carolina, Jesse Bird.  Together they travel west through the wilderness, avoiding the dangers of Indians and wild beasts, all the while evading the trackers hired by Ambrose Kincaid and her stepfather.

Life on the frontier has many challenges for Tamsen.  She has only known a cushioned life in the past, one with servants and fine luxuries, but now Tamsen has to learn to cook, clean, and make do with the roughness of wilderness living.  Slowly over time, Tamsen learns to appreciate her new life on the frontier; she even begins to fall in love with Jesse, the man who has risked so much for her.  But just as her life is becoming more stable, Ambrose Kincaid and her father’s trackers find her whereabouts.  Will Jesse and Tamsen be able to continue evading them, or will Tamsen be forced to return home with her stepfather to an arranged marriage?

• Author's Web site
• More Info
• Read Chapter One
• Author Bio

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn was provided by  Blogging for Books in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

“A Bride for Noah” by Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith: The Lady and the Lumberjack

About the book: It’s 1851, and Evie Lawrence is penniless and heartbroken after a failed romance. When a kind elderly man announces his plan to move west and make his fortune, Evie jumps at the chance to go with him and start a new life. She says goodbye to the only home she’s ever known and sets out for the Northwest.

There she meets Noah Hughes, a handsome young man who has gambled everything he owns on the chance to make a fresh start. Living the rugged life of a lumberjack, he too is determined to one day make his fortune. The last thing he’s looking for is a bride…so why can’t he get Evie out of his mind?

In this first book of the Seattle Brides series, two people learn what it means to move beyond their expectations and embrace the very best God has for them.

Review:  A woman is inadvertently given the opportunity by her employer to move to the west and make something of herself. After making the decision to cut ties with her fiancé, she takes her employer up on his offer. Dragging along some husband-seeking friends with her, Evangeline Lawrence sets out to reform part of the west, starting with a restaurant in the middle of a settlement made up entirely of a lumberjacking community. Evie herself is a woman on a mission; she is determined and hardheaded, and for the most part sensible. Noah Hughes, the man who is not of her dreams, is equally stubborn; however, he is a man with a troubled past which sometimes manifests itself when he deals with Evie.

While reading “A Bride for Noah” I truly appreciated the sensory details that were often included. I could actually place myself in Evie’s shoes, and visualize the camp to an extent. One can certainly appreciate the research that must have been put forth to compile facts about lumberjacks and the Indian traditions of that era. I highly recommend this book, if just for the laughs it evokes. (rev. Jael B.)


DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of A Bride for Noah was provided by Harvest House Publishers in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

“The Quaker and the Rebel” by Mary Ellis: A Civil War Romeo and Juliet Story

About the book: Emily Harrison’s life has been turned upside down. At the beginning of the Civil War, she bravely attempted to continue her parents’ work as conductors in the Underground Railroad until their Ohio farm was sold in foreclosure. Now alone, she accepts a position as a governess with a doctor’s family in slave-holding Virginia. Perhaps she can continue her rescue efforts from there.

Alexander Hunt is the doctor’s handsome nephew. While he does not deny a growing attraction to his uncle’s newest employee, he cannot take time to pursue Emily. Alex is not at all what he seems—rich, spoiled, and indolent. He is the elusive Gray Wraith, a Quaker leader of Rebel partisans. A man of the shadows, he carries no firearm and wholeheartedly believes in Emily’s antislavery convictions.

The path before Alex and Emily is complicated and sometimes life threatening. The war brings betrayal, entrapment, and danger to both of them. Amid their growing feelings for each other, can they find faith in God amid the challenges they face and trust in the possibility for a bright future together?

Review:  A young Quaker woman, who is loyal to the Union, becomes a governess with a doctor’s family in Virginia. Despite its dangerous nature, she continues to assist in the escape of slaves. Becoming involved with a man who is secretly a famous Confederate soldier is not in her best interest, but they are drawn to each other anyway. Filled with intrigue, twists around every chapter, and nail-biting tension, ‘The Quaker and the Rebel” is a well-rounded book bound to enthrall. Upon doing some research I found that romantic novels seldom ever include Quakers as subject matter; when reflecting on the many similar books that I had read in the past I was shocked to find that this was indeed the case. Therefore, it was refreshing to read a novel that incorporated the less literary explored life of the average Quaker. You will fall in love with the spunky character of Emily Harrison as well as her dashing Gray Wraith, Alexander Hunt, as they tiptoe across serious political and moral issues, such as slavery, as well as cross enemy lines. I recommend this book to anyone with an appetite for adventure and romance. (reviewed by Jael B.)

 About the author:  Mary Ellis is the bestselling author of many books, including A Widow's Hope, An Amish Family Reunion, and Living in Harmony. She and her husband live in central Ohio, where they try to live a simpler style of life. What Mary Ellis says.... “The Quaker and the Rebel is first of a new series that allowed me to put years of stomping around Civil War battlefields, sleeping in drafty B&B's, and reading dozens of non-fictional bios of famous generals to good use. My historical romance pits a Yankee pacifist against a Southern planter's son, allowing both to come to new understanding of God's will during wartime. I hope you enjoy!”

DISCLOSURE:  A complimentary copy was provided by Harvest House Publishers  in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.

Rachel (Wives of the Patriarchs) by Jill Eileen Smith

ISBN13: 9780800734312
Paperback: $14.99
Revell a division of Baker
Publishing Group

About the book: Combining meticulous research with her own imaginings, Jill Eileen Smith not only tells one of the most famous love stories of all time but will manage to surprise even those who think they know the story inside and out

Review:  Rachel is a lovely young lady who loves adventure. She loves helping her father and brother's with the sheep. One day she goes to the well and meets a handsome young man named Jacob. He ends up being her cousin. Rachel and Jacob fall in love right away. Jacob makes a deal with her father, Laban, to work seven years for her hand in marriage.

Rachel has an older sister named Leah who is not married. In the culture of Biblical times, it would look bad on the family for the younger sister to marry first. So Laban goes to Leah and tells her that she is going to marry Jacob. Leah tries to argue with him but to no avail. When Laban tells Rachel, she can not believe that her father would do this to her and Jacob. Laban has Leah keep her identity secret through out the wedding festivities.

When Jacob awoke the morning after his wedding and saw Leah instead of Rachel he was furious. He confronted Laban and said he had to make things right. Laban tells him that he could marry Rachel at the end of the wedding week if he promised to work another seven years. Jacob agrees and at the end of the week marries Rachel. Now Rachel has to share the man she loves with her sister.

It was a struggle from day one. Rachel is unable to have children and watches her sister Leah have four. It causes Rachel much grief and bitterness. The sisters are in a constant battle of trying to win Jacob's attention. Finally Rachel has a son for Jacob. This son's name is Joseph and Jacob favors him over all of Leah's children.  Many years pass before she is able to have another son. Rachel dies during his birth. This sons name was Benjamin.

I would recommend this book. It was a very good take on what life would have been like for Rachel.

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy was provided by Revell a division of Baker Publishing in exchange for our honest review. Opinions expressed are solely those of the reviewer. No compensation was received for this review.