Favorite Books of 2018!

Another wonderful year of fiction gone by! My favorite books published in 2018 (not favorite books of all time, because that would be far too difficult) are:

  

A Defense of Honor by Kristi Ann Hunter (Bethany House); Haven Manor, book 1

I absolutely love Hunter's writing style, her humor and her heart. And the premise of this series is truly heart-felt, looking after the women who have been cast out from society, whether by choices they made or circumstances that were forced upon them.

A Rumored Fortune by Joanna Davidson Politano (Revell)

Politano is a fresh voice, and I've love how both of her novels have gone in unconventional directions. Besides sporting a fun Gothic feel, this one is full of profound analogies between viticulture and Christianity.

The Lieutenant's Bargain by Regina Jennings (Bethany House), Fort Reno, book 2

Jennings always writes fun romances, but this one is set apart by its deference to the American Indians. Historically there's not a lot of good during that time period, at least in terms of relations between the US government and the tribes, and so this book might be a bit on the rosy side, but I was impressed with the dignity she afforded them, especially one school boy.

  

Caught by Surprise by Jen Turano (Bethany House); Apart form the Crowd, book 3

I just can't resist Jen Turano's books. They are bubbly, infectious stories that can lift the lowest of spirits, even when sick, miserable, and falling asleep every half hour as I was when I read it (yes, not even a virus akin to Mono can derail my joy of a Turano book).

Sons of Blackbird Mountain by Joanne Bischof (Thomas Nelson); Blackbird Mountain, book 1

Bischof takes a daring and unique approach with a hero who is not only deaf, but also a severe alcoholic. She creates an incredibly inspiring story of overcoming, but it is also a heartbreaking story, and I hope for reconciliation in the sequel.

A Song Unheard by Roseanna M White (Bethany House); Shadows Over England, book 2

A family of thieves-turned-spies, brilliant musicians, a daring mission to war-torn Belgium--how can anyone resist?

  

The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond by Jaime Jo Wright (Bethany House)

A dual timeline book, with both a modern and early 20th century storyline, and both are intriguingly dark and mysterious; both suspenseful and bordering on horror, yet tastefully done. So intricately put together. Mmm.

Fantasy: 
Christian fantasy is one of subgenres that hasn't impressed me, until this year--now suddenly two of my 10-ish favorite stories from all of 2018 are Christian fantasy novels.

The Wounded Shadow by Patrick W Carr (Bethany House); Darkwater Saga, book 3

Really, one has to read the whole series to get the full impact of this tale (it's more like three parts of one intense story), but this was a spectacular conclusion. It's one of the best Christian fantasy series--actually, one of the best fantasy series either Christian or secular--that I've read in a long time.

Mark of the Raven by Morgan L. Busse (Bethany House); Ravenwood Saga, book 1

This story absolutely captured me. I didn't expect two spectacular Christian fantasy novels in one year (being as I'm so picky), but I loved it and can't wait to find out what happens next. The Wounded Shadow awed me, while Mark of the Raven captured my heart.


And for an honorable mention . . .
A Daring Venture by Elizabeth Camden

Though I didn't love this book as much as the first in the series, it wins for the most thought-provoking book of the year. I don't know how many days I mulled over the morality/ethics in the story, and I still can hardly shower without thinking of it (being as it focuses on water purification). And a book that can inspire me to think about it for even months afterwards is one worth a mention!

"A Bound Heart" by Laura Frantz

In a time when oppression is so hard that an entire island must rely on smuggled goods to survive, Lark MacDougall, beekeeper and stillroom maid to the laird Magnus MacLeish, finds her conscience torn. She knows the needs of her fellow islanders, but also feels the need to live an honest life. When an accident occurs and the blame lands on Lark, she is taken from her home and sentenced far across the sea, not anticipating just who will be exiled with her. Will she ever be able to return to her home, or will she find a place for her heart in this new land?

One thing I've found about Laura Frantz's books is the back cover copy never does the book justice. There is always so much more to the story, such different turns than the blurb would lead one to expect. It would be too easy to spoil the surprises of the story, so suffice to say, it took me far more places than I anticipated, in ways I couldn't have guessed.

The history of the time period is integral to the story--both in Scotland and across the sea. I forget what a dark time the 18th century was. Oppression wasn't limited to slaves on plantations; it's hard to believe that in Scotland wearing one's clan's plaid was a prison-worthy offense, and smuggling something so basic as salt worth a hanging. In spite of the very Scottish beginning, there were moments I wondered if the plot would go in the way of Captain Blood--we already had the next thing to a pirate, unjust sentencing, and transportation. But as aforementioned, the author has a delightful way of turning my expectations on their head.

It's a beautiful, captivating tale. Unjust, yet faith-filled, even in such dark circumstances. Above all, hopeful, even when it seems there is no hope to be had. Highly recommended!

Nancy Mehl's "Mind Games"

FBI profiler Kaely Quinn, daughter of a convicted serial killer, tries to stay out of the spotlight, but it's difficult with a reporter dogging her steps. When the reporter receives a threatening letter to Kaely, written in the form of a poem and hinting at multiple murders to come, they aren't sure whether to believe him, until a man fitting the description of the first victim in the poem is found dead. Then the hunt is on to find the killer before more people--and ultimately Kaely herself--meet their intended fates.

Mind Games is right--let's just say, it's not only the serial killer trying to mess with people's heads. There were some serious surprises in this story . . . I can only assume that they will be addressed in books to come, because that is a terrible (but brilliant) thing to drop on an unsuspecting reader.

I liked Kaely better than some other heroines with super-traumatic pasts that I've read--she's got major issues (no surprise), which aren't neatly wrapped up in the end, but there's hope on the horizon. And she wasn't cold, or completely holding everyone at arm's length; just incredibly wary with her trust, and with good reason. I like that Noah was careful in how he handled working with her and not letting his frustrations get the better of him; he's a good guy. I look forward to seeing him grow. And I enjoyed the team, particularly their boss, Solomon. It really felt like a high-profile, multi-agency case, where there were a lot of people working together (not just the main characters), and the majority of which were intent on catching a killer, not encouraging interdepartmental squabbles. Which is as it should be.

I was a little disappointed to have guessed the killer right away (not that I was without doubts on occasion). Though to be fair, my logic was based on experience with mystery novels rather than clues, which did ultimately point to the killer, but the author was pretty crafty in how she laid them out. It was still a satisfying mystery and clever suspense.

I'm glad to see there's another book already on the horizon, because this one demands a sequel, or more. (Not to say the case doesn't get solved--it does. But Mind Games.)

Thank you Bethany House and Goodreads for a free book. I was not required to write a review, and all opinions are my own.

Kaely Quinn Profiler
1. Mind Games
2. Fire Storm 
3. Dead End (spring 2020)

"The Bride of Ivy Green" by Julie Klassen - Tales from Ivy Hill, book 3

In the final installment of the Tales from Ivy Hill, Mercy Grove is mourning the loss of her girls' school and chafing under the management of her new sister-in-law, and the thought of resigning herself to spinsterhood and becoming a governess doesn't seem so bad . . . though the consequences are not what she'd ever imagined. Her friend Jane Bell is seriously considering marrying Gabriel Locke, even though it means destining another man to a childless marriage. And a secretive dressmaker sets up shop in town, and though the ladies try to befriend her, they soon suspect she isn't who she claims to be. All three have dreams waiting to be fulfilled . . .

At last, all the heroines of Ivy Hill finally attain their dreams, whether having old dreams rebuilt or new ones developed (sometimes in ways I didn't expect). In the first two books it felt like more was at stake, but this one provides the satisfying conclusion to the series that I've been waiting for. (But if you haven't read the first two, I can't imagine this one would be nearly so enjoyable for you, so be sure to read them first!)

I have felt from the beginning of the series that there were too many eligible bachelors to find happiness with the number of heroines in Ivy Hill--uneven numbers, as it were--and, sadly, one of my favorites has yet to be lucky in love. But even in my disappointment over his love life, I do think he's not heart-broken either, having found satisfying love of a different sort than romantic. So at the same time I'm disappointed, but also rather happy with the way the author ended the story for him. Who knows--maybe he'll get his own book someday (that's my hope!).

I enjoyed the new intersections in the lives of the residents of the village, whether by the introduction of new characters like Victorine, or new connections among old. There also were some brief visitors to the village I didn't expect (yes, I recognized that dance master and his pretty wife). The series would make a great television mini series!

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Tales from Ivy Hill
1. The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill
2. The Ladies of Ivy Cottage
3. The Bride of Ivy Green

3.5 An Ivy Hill Christmas (novella)

Splickety SPARK: Literary Reimaginings

Writing flash fiction is a challenge (700 words makes for a mighty short story), but it's a lot of fun too. And the theme from February 2017, Literary Reimaginings (where one rewrites the ending of a classical story to something more exciting or satisfying or just plain different) was an exceptionally fun theme:

Our idea of a good time is a cup of licorice tea, a cozy blanket, and a well-worn classic novel. Jane Eyre, Pride and Prejudice, Gone with the Wind... books we read in high school and still pull out every year or so. 

Sometimes, though, we imagine different endings.

Our February issue of Spark--formerly known as Splickety Love-- explores the what-ifs of classic romantic novels. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, we’re bringing you tried and true romance with a twist.

These are classic love stories and famous romance with a twist. If you’ve ever wished for a different outcome, now’s your chance to read it. Our featured author, Julie Lessman, reimagines Gone With the Wind. It’s a must-read if you prefer happy over ambivalent endings. And Mirror, Mirror by Splickety’s Sarah Grimm will grab you by the heart. This year, we’re making it about lovers who are ready to tell a different story--one that may just be an improvement over the original.

I agree with Julie Lessman's story on how Gone With the Wind should have ended--hers is much more hopeful than the original! For my story I went with the classic play Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw (more popularly known as the musical, My Fair Lady). And as that story has one of the most ambivalent endings ever written (does Eliza stay with Henry Higgins, fetching his slippers forever? Or does she actually marry Freddy and make him fetch hers?), I created an actual ending for it. Just maybe not the one expected.


Sadly, Splickety will be closing its doors at the end of the year, but Havok will be emerging from Splickety's ashes in January, with more opportunities for writing and publishing flash fiction. Check it out!

"A Sparkle of Silver" by Liz Johnson - Georgia Coast Romance, book 1

Millie Sullivan is desperate for money to provide care for her grandmother, and when her grandma, in one of her lucid moments, tells her of Great-Grandma Ruth's diary containing the location of a hidden treasure at a local Chateau, she jumps at the hope of finding it. When Millie gets caught snooping by a security guard, Ben Thornton, she manages to convince him to help her, with the promise of splitting the treasure 50/50. As they work together, Millie and Ben get caught up in the adventure of uncovering the past and finding their way to an unexpected future.

There's just something irresistible about a treasure hunt, especially one that involves secret family history.

I enjoyed Millie's voice, especially the way she argues with her thoughts. It's funny, but it also points out when she is willfully denying something--a thing that I've done myself, when I know something to be true but don't really want to acknowledge it. I really liked Ben; he's such a stand-up guy, but it would be tough to be in his position. I can see why he would feel the need to pay back everyone for his mother's crimes, but that's a lot of pressure. But the winner for sweetest, tenderest, most-apt-to-make-me-cry character is Grandma Joy. So sweet and wise when in her right mind, but so hard to read about when the dementia takes control.

I loved the story of Millie's great-grandma hidden within the diary entries and old letters that Millie and Ben find. I got a bit tense when I realized that Ruth's husband was none of her love interests from the summer of 1929. Was her story going to end tragically? Who was the man who became her husband, and how did she end up marrying him? Would Ruth choose the right man or make choices she'd come to regret? The mystery of her romance was just as intriguing as the mystery of the hidden treasure.

Georgia Coast Romance
1. A Sparkle of Silver
2. A Glitter of Gold
3. A Dazzle of Diamonds

Morgan L Busse's "Mark of the Raven" - exciting new fantasy!

Lady Selene, heir to the Great House of Ravenwood, has awakened into her powers, the long-thought-eradicated ability to enter dreams. But as she learns, her ability extends beyond seeing within a persons dreams--she can use their dreams to spy or destroy them. When a summit of all the heads of the Great Houses convenes at Ravenwood, Selene is tasked with assassinating the man prophesied with destruction of her House, but can she destroy the one who also has also been prophesied to bring peace and hope to their nation?

It's a mark of a good story when upon finishing, you want to begin reading it all over again (that is, if book 2 isn't readily available to read instead). Which leads me to the point, by far the worst thing about this book is that book 2 isn't available RIGHT NOW. Not that it's a cliffhanger per say, but that ending! I really, really want to know what happens next!

I have to admit, I've had a hard time finding new fantasy novels that meet my [probably fairly high] standards. There are a lot of intriguing stories out there, but it's hard to find ones that are both clean and captivating, complex yet not compromised. They don't have to be light and sugary sweet to meet my standards (though that's fun on occasion too)--I can handle dark deeds and poor choices, just so long as they grow and eventually choose Right. Mark of the Raven is pretty dark--Selene is basically being trained as an assassin. But even so, there's light, there's hope, and we know that Selene can be so much more than her training allows so long as she chooses Right. A lot of this book is setting up for great things to come, and I can't wait to see how Selene grows and transforms throughout the series. And it is both clean and captivating, complex yet uncompromised.

Earlier this year Patrick W Carr's Darkwater Saga showed me what Christian fantasy could be--allegorical, yes, but wrapped up in such an intriguing, layered story that the allegory only enhances the story (even for me, someone who isn't all that fond of allegory). The Ravenwood Saga looks to be of the same vein (but written in a more feminine hand). I can't wait read the next!

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Ravenwood Saga
1. Mark of the Raven
2. Flight of the Raven
3. Cry of the Raven

Artwork by Rachael Koppendrayer, 2018

The Christmas Heirloom Novella Collection by Hunter, Witemeyer, Thomas, and Wade

If I'm going to read a novella collection, I love it to be like this--when authors that I am familiar with work together to create a collection with overarching tie-ins and themes, yet each bring their unique voice to the collection. The stories are all tied together by the heirloom brooch being handed down through the generations, yet each story is wildly different (and each heroine reacts differently to the lore of the brooch!). Each story is solidly a romance, yet each one has that mother--or mother figure--relationship that is integral to the tale. Christmas is a tie-in too, of course. Christmas stories don't really do much for me, but for the most part I didn't notice the Christmas theme--it's more that the stories happen to take place around Christmastime (which to me is just as good as any other time of the year); they aren't centered on the holiday.

"Legacy of Love" by Kristi Ann Hunter: I just love everything she writes. A good half of it is her writing style, but her sense of humor, the heartfelt, touching moments that even in such a short story are powerful enough to bring tears--she gets it just right every time.

"Gift of the Heart" by Karen Witemeyer: The problem with including children in a story is that they tend to steal the show, and Naomi is adorable, both sweet and wise for one so young, as she demonstrates in her unreserved love Beauregard, even before he (by worldly standards) earns it. But the romance is sweet too. Really, Bo is just plain sweet and not at all the stereotypical wealthy tycoon one would expect.

"A Shot at Love" by Sarah Loudin Thomas: This one felt the most different to me, partly because Fleeta is a sharp-shooting tomboy with no need for romance, and partly because I simply haven't read many stories that take place in the 1950's; it took a bit to wrap my head around the time period. I liked it, though; I really liked how Hank is able to respect Fleeta's well-honed abilities, yet not overlook her femininity just because she shoots and dresses like a man.

"Because of You" by Becky Wade: Again, an author whose writing style I love. Love the humor, love the ties to the Bradford Sisters series, and I loved the tender story of navigating grief while moving on to something new.


Related novels:

Haven Manor by Kristi Ann Hunter
0.5: "A Search for Refuge" (free prequel e-novella)
1. A Defense of Honor

2. A Return of Devotion
3. A Pursuit of Home 
3.5: "Legacy of Love" (published in The Christmas Heirloom novella collection)

A Sound of Rain by Sarah Loudin Thomas

Bradford Sisters Romances by Becky Wade:
0.5: "Then Came You" (prequel novella)
1. True to You
2. Falling for You
2.5 "Because of You" (published in The Christmas Heirloom Novella Collection)
3. Sweet on You

Connilyn Cossette's "Shelter of the Most High" - Cities of Refuge, book 2

Captured by marauders, Sofea and her cousin are taken from Sicily to Canaan, where they end up in Kedesh, a city of refuge. Eitan has lived in the city most of his life, haunted by a childhood tragedy and unable to leave lest his life be forfeit. When the two foreign women are brought into Eitan's home, Sofea catches his eye immediately. As she adapts to the new culture and new language, Sofea begins to appreciate her new home and the possibility of love with Eitan. But when trouble takes her out of the gates, will he be able to follow?

I don't read a lot of biblical fiction, but I definitely appreciate Connilyn Cossette's stories, and I especially enjoy these that are taking place in that little-known time period in the transition from Joshua to Judges.

I tend to forget that people inhabited a lot more of the world in old testament times than just the Middle East, and I enjoyed starting the story out in Sicily. This book, through Sophea's eyes, makes it clear just how wildly different Israel was from the pagan nations around the world, just what a difference the true God can make in the lives of a nation, even when some in the nation who are turning away from God.

I was afraid Eitan would be more bitter than he was; thankfully, it's more that he wants to make a difference in the world and chafes at his restraints. He's still the sweet boy from the previous book, except all grown up. It was really interesting reading about someone who has taken the Nazirite vow and upheld it (unlike the the classic example of disobedience to it, Samson). I also really enjoyed the relationship between Sofea and her cousin Prezi as they take turns upholding each other.

A good portion of the conflict in this story is a direct result of what happened in the previous book, yet it stands on its own surprisingly well, maybe because a good dozen years have passed between books. And after reading this book, I am not too surprised about who the main characters of the next book will be . . . in another dozen or so years (book time, not real time).

And Shelter of the Most High is the winner of the 2019 CHristy Award for Best Historical Fiction!

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Cities of Refuge
1. A Light on the Hill
2. Shelter of the Most High
3. Until the Mountains Fall (July 2019)

Irene Hannon's "Hidden Peril" - Code of Honor, book 2

Kristin Dane's fair trade shop features products from all around the world, geared toward making the world a better place. But as  people connected to the shop are brutally murdered, Kristin--with good reason--begins fearing for her life, relying on Detective Luke Carter to keep her safe.

I love the relationship Kristin has with her two best friends; the boys are wonderfully protective and brother-like. It's refreshing to see that friend relationship portrayed without sexual tension between her and the boys--just mutual love and respect.

Though he's not a major character, I liked Yusef Bishara and the choice he makes--it's much better than watching him give in to blackmail and travel down a road of self-destruction, which is what I was afraid would happen. Impressively, the main villain was both incredibly smart and sensible--it's actually pretty impressive that they figure out his identity. It was fun having such an intelligent villain, even if he was easy to peg pretty early on (for me as a reader, anyway. In their shoes, I would probably still be hunting high and low with no hope of figuring out his identity).

Terrorists aren't my favorite suspense subject, though antiquities smuggling is fascinating--especially when done so cleverly as in this book. It was a great surprise that characters from an older series managed to get roped into this book (being as it takes place in their territory, crime-wise); crossovers are always fun, especially when one is familiar with the guests!

Thank you Revell and Netgalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Code of Honor
1. Dangerous Illusions
2. Hidden Peril

"The Reluctant Warrior" by Mary Connealy

Former cavalry officer Cameron Scott came to fetch his daughter and nephew from the people who rescued them from a wagon train massacre, but since arriving, nothing has gone right. First, he has been snowed in with them for the entire winter; second, the children are still terrified of him, even months later; and third, he's pretty sure that pretty Gwen Harkness is trying to keep them. Which is not far from the truth--Gwen is definitely reluctant to give up these children she loves as her own. But when a murdering dry-gulcher descends on the ranch and Cam gets injured, he ends up in Gwen's care, where he learns just why children love her so much. But will she love him back?

This book picks up shortly after the first book leaves off--a couple months later, but everyone is still solidly snowed in for the winter, and the situation from the end of book one hasn't really changed. Thus I highly recommend starting with book 1, as they are quite interconnected.

Some days one just needs a lighthearted story where the good guys are good (though definitely not perfect), the bad guys are bad (and through some soul-searching, this villain determines that yes, he just really likes being bad [I rather liked that about him]), and there's just enough romance to sweeten the story.

I rather liked Cameron and wanted to defend him, even when he wasn't right. He might be a bossy grouch, but there's no denying his love and heartbreak for his children, and that absolutely tilted the scales in his favor. I can understand Gwen's reluctance to give them to him; he really has no concept of how to deal with kids. But as they begin to work together to connect him and the kids, there are some really sweet moments.

This book clearly sets up the next, and I look forward to Penny and John's story! It was fun getting to know them a bit in this book, and should be even more fun seeing what trouble they get into!

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

High Sierra Sweethearts
1. The Accidental Guardian
2. The Reluctant Warrior
3. The Unexpected Champion

Cara Putman's "Delayed Justice"

Wounded as a child, criminal defense attorney Jaime Nichols has finally gathered the courage to do something about it. But when she takes that first step of pressing charges, she finds herself attacked on multiple fronts. Her mentor ropes her into a case that hits too close to home, but also throws her together with her neighbor Chandler Bolton, a veteran whose therapy dog--when not terrorizing her cat--proves vital to helping victims cope with trauma. Will she be able to move past the trauma of her own past to help a wounded child?

I guess I never actually read the blurb on what this book is about--just having read the other books in the series, I went straight into it. I didn't expect the theme of child molestation--one of those subjects that may not be taboo, but is definitely 'handle-with-care'--but to my [to be fair, naive] eyes, the author handled it with compassion, grace, and incredible, raw emotion. The other two books in the series were good, but this one . . . wow.

It is intense; maybe not as much in the suspense aspect as the previous books, but just in the incredible wounds of Jaime's past and her fight to overcome them in the present. With his own experiences with PTSD and his job in counseling, Chandler is the perfect hero for her; he knows not to push, not to rush her, not to invade her space. In everything he does, his actions show that he cherishes her, something that has been missing from her life.

And I love that the Jaime and Caroline's friendship is brought to the forefront, by virtue of Caroline's needing a temporary place to stay. In spite of Jaime's tendencies to close herself off, she and Caroline are still very good friends--they know when to dig deep and how to uphold each other, even when they don't have the same philosophy of life (at least to start). Caroline's insistence on praying for her friend is inspiring; this book whetted my appetite even more to find out her story. Hopefully it will be forthcoming!

Thank you Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Hidden Justice
1. Beyond Justice
2. Imperfect Justice
3. Delayed Justice
4. Forbidden Justice (2019)

"The Perilous Gard" by Elizabeth Marie Pope

Exiled by Queen Mary in 1558, Kate Sutten ends up at the Perilous Gard, a remote and mysterious castle, full of superstitions. The lord's brother Christopher blames himself for the loss of his niece, but when Kate discovers there is a chance she is still alive--taken by the Fair Folk--he will do anything to get her back, even offer himself in exchange. But when Kate tries to help, she herself ends up in the clutches of the Fair Folk, with little hope of escape.

To my knowledge, Elizabeth Marie Pope only ever published two novels, but they are both winners. While The Sherwood Ring (1958) is a whimsical delight, The Perilous Gard (1974) is deeper, more layered--on the surface, it's another young adult retelling of a fairy tale, but there is surprising symbolism, the heart valued over beauty, and wisdom treated with a queenly reverence.

It's based on the ballad of Tam Lin, but more loosely (and tastefully) than some other retellings of the fairy tale. Kate is a sensible heroine; not a beauty like her sister, but innately practical and with surprising wisdom for one so young. She accepts who she is, clumsiness, plain features, and all. I love her friendship with Christopher, how she manages to draw out his dreams and gets caught up in them too. The development of her relationship with the fairy queen is also interesting to watch: she goes from essentially a domesticated animal to a favorite pet to a person to an equal.

I've never seen this marketed as anything but a fantasy, or maybe a historical fantasy (as it takes place in Tudor England), but it actually has a lot of Christian elements. Even in the midst of a fairy tale that feels like it has pretty pagan roots (though surprisingly little--if any--actual magic), the main character, Kate, lays out the gospel in simple, clear terms. And it's pretty easy how Christopher's actions are a reflection of Christ's.

It may be nearly 45 years old, but it is definitely a story that stands the test of time.

"An Hour Unspent" by Roseanna M White

Eldest of the of the home-made family of thieves-turned-mostly straight, Barclay Pearce is tasked by the government to get the plans for a synchronized propeller from a local clockmaker. While he finds surprising friendship with the Manning, it's the man's independent daughter Evelina that really throws him. When Manning disappears after a row with his family, Evelina believes that he has abandoned them, but Barclay, knowing the man's secret project, has different suspicions. Can the thief find a man who can't be found, and steal a woman's heart in the process?

Barclay is such a dear, living up to every hope I had for him. I loved that he's trying to do things in such a way that he won't be ashamed to stand before God, even when it's his skills at theft that the government so desires. I especially loved that he is honest about his motives and intent when he meets with Evelina's father to discuss the propeller plans. It's refreshing to see an example of honesty as the best policy from the outset, even when it is his nature to con his way in rather than tell the straightforward truth.

Evelina was a little harder to understand, especially when she goes off the rails from Basil's unexpected gift. I didn't dislike her, but I didn't completely get her. In her dysfunctional household, I can see how independence would be so highly desired--and thus her involvement in the suffrage movement, though I appreciate that she has a heart for more than just for other suffragettes. On a historical note, I hadn't known about the disparity in the movement before, that many of the wealthier suffragettes only wanted the vote for the wealthy women--that they didn't want the lower classes included.

While I have really enjoyed this series on a family of thieves (and would love to read about more of the younger ones), now what I'd really like to read is a book on V--just those few, brief lines of his history were enough to win me over to what must be an incredible tale. May it someday be told in full!

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Shadows Over England (second chronologically)
1. A Name Unknown
2. A Song Unheard
3. An Hour Unspent

Related series:
Ladies of the Manor (first chronologically)
1. The Lost Heiress
2. The Reluctant Duchess
3. A Lady Unrivaled

The Codebreakers (third chronologically)
1. The Number of Love
2. On Wings of Devotion
3. A Portrait of Loyalty

Ronie Kendig's "Thirst of Steel" - Tox Files, book 3

With the evil AFO on the search for Goliath's sword--a sword that has cursed a line for generations and that the AFO wants to turn back on David's seed--Cole Russel is sent in bring down the Order from the inside. However, it gets all the more complicated as the Order is holding Tzivia and Ram Khalon's father over them, as a way to force Tzivia into helping retrieve the sword. Will the team be able to bring down the AFO once and for all?

This just might be the best of the trilogy, and I was really glad I went back and read the other books again before delving into this one--it would be easy to get lost otherwise, with all the characters and complex relationships. Because it has such  broad cast, there were things that felt a little neglected in the end (would have loved more on Runt and his acceptance into Wraith, more on Mercy, maybe even a bit on President Galen, who featured more prominently in the earlier books).

There definitely were a lot of surprises in this book--not only about Ram's history, but about a bunch of other characters one thought one knew (but cannot be named for spoilers). And not just backstory stuff--things happen that I really didn't think would happen to our cast of well-beloved characters. The story is more powerful for it, but . . . but . . .

The A-Team aspects are fun, the Mission Impossible parts exciting, the Indiana Jones bits fascinating. Overall a highly enjoyable conclusion to the series!

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Tox Files
0.5: "The Warrior's Seal"
1. Conspiracy of Silence
2. Crown of Souls
3. Thirst of Steel

Related series:
Book of the Wars
1. Storm Rising
2. Kings Falling
3. Soul Raging

"Caught by Surprise" by Jen Turano

When a kidnapping and case of mistaken identity lands her in Chicago, Temperance Flowerdew is rather flustered and annoyed--especially when she finds out the reason for the kidnapping. Her dear friend Gilbert Cavendish rides to the rescue (though expecting someone else to need rescuing), and when they're spotted together in a compromising position by a society matron, Gilbert feels obliged to propose marriage. However, now that Temperance finally has the gumption to go for what she wants--no more sitting at the sidelines for this society wallflower--she turns him down and refuses to listen to reason. And that is only the beginning of their troubles: between murder attempts, a possible missing inheritance, and matchmaking old ladies (and gentlemen), there's barely time to fall in love.

It was sweet to see Temperance and Gilbert go from friends to falling in love, even if Temperance is a bit stubborn about it (though it must be said, Gilbert's proposals--if such they could be called--rival Mr Darcy's first proposal for romanticism and endearment. Which is to say, exhibits neither at all.). They really do feel like good friends, with their ability to read each other and anticipate each others' moods, and the definite feeling of history between their two families. Though the Grand Gestures of Romance are not quite so crazy in this book as the previous, they are pretty adorable nonetheless.

As always, the characters are fun and crazy; I especially liked what happened with our erstwhile kidnappers. There were a lot of surprises in this book; even with being able to guess a few bits of the mystery, I was still constantly surprised by twists in the plot (but had no trouble following it).

While it is sad to see this hilarious series come to close, it does mean one good thing: another (no doubt just as hilarious) is right around the corner.

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Apart from the Crowd
0.5: "At Your Request" (free prequel novella)
1. Behind the Scenes
2. Out of the Ordinary
3. Caught by Surprise

Splickety: Outdoor Misadventure

Splickety magazine--a flash fiction publication--presents:

OUTDOOR MISADVENTURE (June 2016)

The great outdoors—where misadventure awaits! Our “ Outdoor Misadventures” issue is full of uh-ohs and should-haves that will make you laugh and shudder, from wild animals to crazy camping and barely boating.

Be sure to catch the feature story by Mark Hancock (author and CEO of Trail Life USA) with his hilarious go-around involving Pop-Tarts and marshmallows.

Whether you’re headed to the beach, the mountains, or planning a staycation, you’ll want this issue on your summer reading list.

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This edition includes my second--and shortest--story published with Splickety, coming in at a mere 100 words, and set at the Devil's Kettle on the Brule River north of Grand Marais, MN (though the reality of the Kettle is slightly less dramatic, at least in non-flood stage). Since rights have reverted back to me, I can even share the story, "Promontory," here:

The current pitches me against the rocks, and I scramble up the outcropping. At the sight, my spirit sinks. I am not on shore; I’m at the division of the river, far beyond the landing. To my left, the Brule plummets fifty feet before racing to Superior’s icy depths. To my right, it plunges my kayak into the Devil’s Kettle, a massive pothole with no known outlet. I cannot go back, yet either way forward spells my doom. Will I die—starving, lonely, afraid—on this desolate promontory awaiting rescue? Or choose between the devil and the deep blue sea?

"A Rumored Fortune" by Joanna Davidson Politano

At news of her father's death, Tressa Harlowe becomes the poorest heiress in England--mainly because her father didn't see fit to trust anyone with the location of his amassed and well-hidden fortune, and their laborers and creditors are waiting eagerly for long-awaited funds. As friends, family, and fortune hunters, under the pretense of offering condolences, descend on the estate to try to find the treasure for themselves, Tressa finds herself leaning on the new manager of the vineyard, Donegan Vance. But can they find the hidden fortune before they lose the estate?

There's a lovely Gothic flavor to this story, with an old castle, rumors of hidden treasure, and a possible saboteur. Tressa is a sweet, creative heroine, but no doormat. And while Donegan is a little rough around the edges and apt to jump to wrong conclusions where she is concerned, he's also a wonderfully wise and thoughtful hero.

There is a lot of food for thought--and biblical teaching--in this story, the most obvious being the metaphor of the vine and the branches. But there's also God's role as Father--the perfect Father our human father can never be. I appreciated that though Tressa often turns to God, it takes a long time to learn that God is the only one she can lean on, trust implicitly, and be loved by unconditionally--one of those simple things that we ourselves should know, yet it can be just as difficult for us to learn as for Tressa.

I thought it interesting how money proved to be an idol in so many different ways in the story--in the traditional sense for Tressa's mother; as something hated by Tressa's father yet given the power to consume his thoughts and cloud his dealings with everyone, including his daughter; in Donegan's case, not as something to be loved or hated, but rather the key to righting his mistakes; as a (deceptive) form of security for Tressa's cousins. How easy is it for us to fall into the same traps?

It's a lovely story, with beautiful, lyrical writing. I look forward to more from the author!

Thank you Revell for the complimentary book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Splickety HAVOK: Fairy Tales Unfettered

April 2016 issue

From the April 2016 issue of Splickety Havok:

Everyone loves a good Fairytale. Most of us grew up hearing them as bedtime stories, and now they’re back, better than ever, in movies and TV and books. And this issue of Havok is on board with that.

From the Old World to the New, from classics reworked to originals, Fairytales: Unfettered does not disappoint. There are stories that will make you shudder, stories that will make you smile, and everything in between, so curl up somewhere comfy and get ready to lose yourself in a world of magic where dreams come true... but sometimes they kill you.

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For those who aren't familiar with Splickety, it is a flash fiction magazine (also available digitally), full of short stories 1,000 words long or less. Each issue is on a specific theme, and stories can be submitted by anyone and are hand-picked by the editors.

"Twelve Dancing Co-eds," a Roaring Twenties retelling of the classic fairy tale "Twelve Dancing Princesses," was my first story ever published with Splickety, in what I think is one of the most fun themes they have ever done (but then, I love fairy tales). My favorite story in the issue is the 100-word "Diamond Cabbages," by Nemma Wollenfang. She has created one of the funniest--and shortest--stories I've ever read.

"Dead Drift" by Dani Pettrey

Private Investigator Kate Maxwell never stopped loving Luke Gallagher after he disappeared. Now he's back, and together they must unravel a twisting thread of secrets, lies, and betrayal while on the brink of a biological disaster that will shake America to its core. Will they and their love survive, or will Luke and Kate become the terrorist's next target?

The final book of the Chesapeake Valor series is just as fast-paced and suspenseful as I had expected and hoped.

I'm not sure how I feel about the two different cases going on at the same time; part of me was expecting them to intersect somewhere, though it would have been a real stretch to make it work. They are both continued from the previous book, so it was good to reach a conclusion on them, and I enjoyed that we continued to follow more of the group than just Luke and Kate. However, I was drawn a lot more to the mystery of Jenna's killer (since it was so personal to the group, particularly Griffin and Parker) than I was to the terrorist plot, though the terrorist plot was the larger portion of the story.

As disparate as the cases were, they were balanced nicely in the book, with constant progress and danger to keep the reader's attention as it flips between them.

The book makes a great conclusion to the series and gives us more time with the entire gang, but I did enjoy the other books a little more.

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Chesapeake Valor
1. Cold Shot
2. Still Life
3. Blind Spot
4. Dead Drift

"A Defense of Honor" by Kristi Ann Hunter

Forced to run for her life, Kit FitzGilbert finds herself in the very place she swore never to return to--a London ballroom. There she encounters Lord Graham Wharton, who believes Kit holds the key to a mystery he's trying to solve. As much as she wishes that she could tell him everything, she can't reveal the truth without endangering those she loves.

Ever since A Noble Masquerade, I have expected great things from this author, and goodness, if she hasn't surpassed expectations! It has all the humor and touching message I expected, but the story is so tender, so compassionate toward and passionate for unwed mothers and their children. I confess my eyes were not quite dry on more than one occasion.


Graham is completely charming: smart, funny, compassionate, and great with kids. Utterly adorable. Kit, on the other hand, is more complex and ever so human. I worried she would be pretty hardened, given her blackmailing and guilt, but there is still softness to her. And who doesn't try to control their own lives? It's really hard to let go of control and trust that God has your back, especially when evidence of hardship and pain is all around you. I liked her a lot, and it was so wonderful to see her transformation when she finally lets go and embraces the freedom of trusting God when everything else seems to be falling apart around her.

I loved that Jess from the Hawthorne House books made her way to Haven Manor. I hope--no, I expect! one of the upcoming books will be devoted to her so we finally get her whole story. It will be a good one.

This is Christian fiction at its best.

Thank you Bethany House for the free book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Haven Manor
0.5: "A Search for Refuge" (free prequel e-novella)
1. A Defense of Honor

2. A Return of Devotion
3. A Pursuit of Home
3.5: "Legacy of Love" (published in The Christmas Heirloom novella collection)

Related Series (takes place chronologically before Haven Manor):

Hawthorne House
0.5 "A Lady of Esteem" - a free novella introduction to the Hawthornes and friends!
1. A Noble Masquerade
2. An Elegant Facade
3. An Uncommon Courtship

4. An Inconvenient Beauty

Related Series (takes place chronologically after Haven Manor):
Hearts on the Heath
1. Vying for the Viscount
2. Winning the Gentleman

"The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond" by Jaime Jo Wright - delightfully eerie

When Annalise Forsythe unexpectedly inherits the dilapidated trailer from an old recluse, it's a shock to everyone that it is filled with pictures of her--even pictures from the hidden, secret part of her life. Along with those photos are clippings, photographs, and obituaries from a century before: obituaries that had been delivered to the news office where Libby Sheffield worked hours before the subject had even died . . . As Annalise delves into Gossamer Grove's dark history from the present and Libby works to unravel the mystery from past, both young women find themselves in danger from those who don't want the secrets of Gossamer Grove's inhabitants revealed.

I'm not a fan of horror stories, but I do enjoy the occasional eerie, Gothic-style tale, and this book was marvelous. I loved the premise of the obituary arriving before the death takes place. It's a sign of a good dual timeline book that neither the past nor the present story overwhelms the other; I was constantly hooked on whichever timeline I was reading at the time, which is definitely not always the case in this style of book. I did like the plot of the past timeline a little better (it's that Gothic thing), but the highly emotional relationship development of the present balanced it out. Equally captivating, just in different ways.

There is a lot of depth to both stories, and they are heavy with themes of guilt, grace, and forgiveness, but instead of slowing down the suspense of the story, they add to it, being so intimately entwined with the characters and the dangers they are facing.

Hats off to the author for developing such a complex, well thought-out tale; I don't know how she kept track of details to keep the mystery(ies) so well balanced between the two timelines, peeling them back layer after layer until all connections are revealed, but it was impressive.

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

"The Hope of Azure Springs" by Rachel Fordham - a tender story of love and loss

Found half-dead after her guardian is murdered, Em is thankful to be taken in and cared for by a kind family, but her heart yearns to find her sister, separated on the orphan train seven years before. Sheriff Caleb Reynolds hates a puzzle he can't solve, and Em is one. With her help, he plans to track down the murderers, but not even he can anticipate the effect the strange young woman will have on his heart.

One of the best (and worst) things about reading a book by a new author is that you have no idea what to expect. There was more danger and excitement than I would have pegged from reading the back cover copy, with sprinkles of humor and fun, but my overall impression is one of overwhelming tenderness. There is a lot of loss in the book (though most happen before the story actually takes place), and grief to go with those losses. But, most important, there is healing.

I really enjoyed Em and came to love Caleb more as he learned to appreciate her. I still sometimes wanted to wallop him over the head for being slow, but I loved the message that he receives--that beauty is not dependent on outward appearance. And how we perceive outward appearance can change based on how we feel about the person inside. The ending was more bittersweet than I expected, but it was good--quite possibly better for it. I will gladly read more books by this author in future!

Thank you Revell for the free book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Joanne Bischof's "Sons of Blackbird Mountain"

When Aven Norgaard leaves Norway to become a housekeeper to her dead husband's kin in Appalachia, she is expecting to care for three young boys, not three grown men. While Aven finds a brother in the eldest and friendship with youngest, it is Thor, isolated by his deafness and addicted to the fruits of his craft, that tugs at her heart. But the fight to sobriety is a hard one, as Aven has seen and Thor has experienced.

This was a beautiful love story. Heart-wrenching at times, and a bit bittersweet, but very tender and moving.

I loved how the author was able to convey a deaf character so well, both in how Thor communicates and his frustrations in not being able to always understand and be understood, even amongst those who know him best. And it's made all the harder with alcoholism and the process of breaking that addiction.

The brotherly love--and rivalry--is also very well done. Their relationships are complex, especially as Aven comes between Thor and Haakon, while Jorgen tries to be supportive and keep the peace. It's really easy to root for Thor, who desperately wants to change, but knows all too well the pain of failure. Haakon definitely has some growing up to do. I wouldn't call his gesture at the end redeeming, but at least he makes an expression of his love and regret, imperfect though it is. I'm glad to see Haakon will have his chance at true redemption in the sequel!

Aven is altogether a lovely character; I loved that she makes an effort to communicate with Thor, to get over the awkwardness of not knowing how to deal with a deaf person. And it is awkward at first, but she is good at looking past man's outward appearance and instead looking at the heart. Pretty much the entire secondary cast was spectacular; I especially loved the bravery shown by certain ones in spite of ties to the Ku Klux Klan.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Blackbird Mountain
1. Sons of Blackbird Mountain
2. Daughters of Northern Shores

Cathy Marie Hake's "Letter Perfect"

Ruth Caldwell always has the best of intentions in whatever she does, no matter many finishing schools she's been kicked out of. When she is handed off the stage into Josh McCain's hands, he's astounded first by her beauty, and then aghast when he discovers she has a legitimate claim to half his ranch. Though he's worked hard to bring the ranch to where it is, he knows he has to do the honorable thing, so he offers her shelter in his home. Ruth certainly livens up the ranch and makes instant friends his lonely sister, but when her accidents go beyond her usual bumbling to something potentially sinister, Josh has to decide where his loyalties lie.

I'm pretty sure this is the fourth time I've read this book, and I still love it.

Sweet, lively, and accident-prone, Ruth is such a fun heroine. She knows how to laugh at herself, and she's never down for long. I love how she embraces Laney as her best friend. Their friendship is another part of what makes the book great, as they each build the other up and encourage each other. At the same time, I also really appreciate their relationship with Mrs. O'Sullivan, who is a wonderful, Godly mentor to them, fulfilling the biblical admonishment for older women to teach the younger.

Ruth and Josh's relationship develops beautifully, first into friendship and then into love, as they each observe God-honoring attributes in the other. I love the humor and also the bits of wisdom that Hake slips in throughout the story. It's one of my favorites!

California Historicals
1. Letter Perfect
2. Bittersweet

"A Daring Venture" by Elizabeth Camden - fascinating historical controversy

Rosalind Warner has made it her life's work to eradicate water-borne diseases, while Nickolas Drake, new Commissioner of Water for New York, has fought his whole life to bring water to even the poorest tenements of Manhattan. However, the two land on opposite sides of a lawsuit involving water filtration. Rosalind's new technology could mean safe water for New York, but in spite of his attraction to the scientist, Nick is unconvinced by her arguments. But not even Nick can stand aside when someone systematically sets out to destroy Rosalind.

One thing I can always count on in opening up a book by Elizabeth Camden, it will be so much more than I expect; there will be twists and turns such that the plot will end up in a totally different place than the book blurb implies, and I love it. (Not to call the blurb inaccurate--it isn't. The story is just so much more than the blurb.) While this is far from the most faith-filled of her novels, it is a fascinating story, full of controversy that's not unlike what we go through today with modern strides in science.

The title is apt--it truly was a daring venture to chlorinate the water system in the middle of a lawsuit and without permission (a historically accurate portion of the story, even if Rosalind and Nick are fictional). On the one hand, it's easy to approve of the chlorination project knowing what we do now and having a century of successful chlorination history. Rosalind was right that something had to be done to eliminate deadly water-borne disease that was so prevalent up until chlorination. But on the other hand, like Nick, I wouldn't have wanted my family to be the lab rats in testing the long-term consequences of chlorination, not when it was new. And I really wouldn't have been happy to find out it had been done without my knowledge and without giving me a choice in the matter; it's a major betrayal of trust. In this case it all worked out, but I'm not convinced they did right in going about it in secret.

I have never seen an author to compare with Elizabeth Camden for putting two people on opposite sides of an issue and having them both be right; it makes for a fascinating and thought-provoking read.

For the record, it's not all science and politics; besides a roller coaster of a romance, there's also a strong tie with the previous book in the Drake family issues that make for some additional suspense. I appreciated Nick's attempts to reconcile the families, and his ability to show compassion to someone who didn't deserve it. And I like the glimpse of where the next book in the series is going, and how Nick's job (and subsequent actions) in this story will have such an impact on the next.

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Empire State
1. A Dangerous Legacy
2. A Daring Venture
3. A Desperate Hope

"More than Meets the Eye" by Karen Witemeyer

Seeking justice from the gambler who destroyed his family, Logan Fowler is doing everything he can to learn the man's weaknesses before confronting him, until he encounters the man's sister, Evangeline Hamilton, who is sunshine personified. Evie might have mismatched eyes that kept her from being adopted, but she doesn't let it stop her from loving her equally unwanted brothers or their closed-off new neighbor with a soft heart that he can't hide. Will Logan be able to hold his resolve with Evie--and God--working on his heart?

Though even she has her moments of pain and discouragement, Evangeline a marvelous heroine, sweet and full of hope--the perfect tonic for a man who is being eaten alive by the desire for revenge. There are a lot of good, thought-provoking quotes in this book, and she says most of them. One of my favorites was, "Trusting the wrong person might lead to temporary heartache, but trusting the right one provides a strength that can fuel you for a lifetime." How often do we hold back from trusting or being vulnerable because we're afraid they'll hurt us? It's the difference between living in fear and living in love, and we are not called to live in fear.

I enjoyed the turns the plot took--not where I was expecting! The bit of mystery was fun, as was the pet pig (the cause of some of the funniest moments in the story). In some ways it reminded me of the Archer brothers books, with the Hamilton family being isolated the way they are (though less by desire for isolation). I loved how the author was able to pull in different physical flaws (or in Zach's case, his disagreeableness) and turn them into something worth loving. I'm really looking forward to Zach's story--I think he has a ways to go yet in accepting grace for himself, and I want to see him get there!

Another wonderful story by one of my favorite authors!

Patchwork Family
1. More Than Meets the Eye
2. More Than Words Can Say
2.5: "More Than a Pretty Face" (originally published in the Serving Up Love novella collection)

"A Rebel Heart" by Beth White

Five years after the end of the Civil War, Selah Daughtry is running out of options for saving her family plantation. Pinkerton Agent Levi Riggins is investigating a series of robberies and sabotage that seem to be leading back to the Daughtry plantation. Posing as hotel management for the railroad, he convinces Selah to turn her home into a fancy hotel for the railroad. Selah will do almost anything to save her home, but can she trust the slick-talking Yankee?

I really enjoyed the complexity of the characters in this story. Selah is a very strong and intelligent woman, but still very feminine. Maybe the best way to describe her is that rather than denying some aspect of her personality or looks, she's always pushing to become more of herself. The secondary characters are very well drawn too--whether it's the former slaves that Selah is hoping to employ in her hotel, or the boy she brings home from the train wreck, they all have distinct personalities, and none are perfect, not even the wise old mammy who half-raised Selah. Along with their good qualities, they have prejudices and fears, making them feel very real. I hope we get to see more of them in the future books! And I really like how the author portrays Selah's father; he's very broken, but he's not a monster; he's still her father.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that liars in fiction will be found out, generally at the worst possible moment--even (or especially) if the liar is a good man who has to withhold certain facts due to his job a Pinkerton agent. Selah's inevitable misunderstanding during that revelation aside, I thought the story has a unique plot as Levi helps the Daughtry girls set up business for themselves, while at the same time untangling the case he's investigating. The story shows the good that comes of a community working together, and how it can revitalize a place.

I thought it was really interesting with the varying racial tensions the author brings to the story--not just between black and white, but even within the black community. She brings up points that I never would have thought of but that make sense for the Reconstruction time period.

Thank you Revell for the free book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Daughtry House
1. A Rebel Heart

Becky Wade's "Falling for You"

Willow Bradford is content to take a break from modeling to watch after her parents' inn, until she runs face to face with NFL quarterback Corbin Stewart--the man who broke her heart. When they end up working together on an ancient missing-persons case, they have to decide if they can risk their hearts working together again.

Becky Wade is talented at writing stories that make me both smile and cry.

In no other realm but the eyes of a child would a model and a football player make an ideal investigative team, but for all their inexperience and lack of authority, Willow and Corbin do a great job (justifying Charlotte's faith in them). The mystery was a fun touch to the story, and I liked that they were able to call on Nora's expertise in research. I really liked Corbin's niece Charlotte; she reminded me of a friend of mine at that age: bright, mature, not afraid to reach for dreams that should be beyond her grasp, and a lover of questionable boy bands. She's an authentic middle schooler (rather than the bratty kind of stereotypical middle schooler).

I really liked how the author dealt with Willow's past. I get Willow's position when it comes to her and Corbin's pre-book break-up, yet I really respect her for eventually owning up to her part in it. It would be so easy to blame it all on Corbin and push her part under the rug, but the truth is she did make mistakes. Turning her back on her beliefs--even so briefly--spiraled quickly into a disaster of her own making, and their relationship suffered because of it. I love how authentic each of the characters are--not just Willow and Corbin, but Charlotte, Corbin's dad, Willow's grandma, even the gardener. They all feel like real people.

And you know a series is good when it keeps winning awards . . . Not only was book 1 True to You the winner of the 2018 Christy Award for both Contemporary Romance and Book of the Year, but Falling for You is the winner of the 2019 Christy Award for Best Contemporary Romance!

Thank you Bethany House for the free book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Bradford Sisters Romances
0.5: "Then Came You" (prequel novella)
1. True to You
2. Falling for You
2.5 "Because of You" (published in The Christmas Heirloom Novella Collection)
3. Sweet on You

"The Captive Bride" by Michelle Griep - a French and Indian War adventure

Daughter of a Mohawk leader and a captive, Mercy Lytton straddles multiple worlds as she takes on the role of a scout. She is hired with a group of men to transport a shipment of stolen gold to the British, posing as a settler's wife. The only man available to send with as her husband is a condemned traitor--offered a stay of execution if he can succeed in this mission. Elias Dubois is grateful for the reprieve, but he has a mission of his own that isn't completely in line with with the rest of his companions. Of course, this is all dependent on them not being killed on the way by the French, enemy tribes, or thieves. And as they get a glimpse into each other's characters, Mercy and Elias find themselves in a different kind of danger--a danger to their hearts.

I really enjoy stories set in the French and Indian War, and this one is no exception. There's lots of action and adventure and a marvelous sense of the untamed wilderness. Twists and turns abound, with a number of fun surprises. Honor and dishonor are not relegated to specific sides in the war.

I really liked Elias--he's my kind of hero. He's woods-savvy and deadly, yet he is always a gentleman, even in the wilderness. He treats Mercy with both honor and respect, and always like a lady, even though she is more at home scouting the trail than in a town. He's stealthy, sweet, smart, and faith-filled. I loved it every time the author revealed another of his surprising skills, backstory, and personality. It took me longer to warm up to Mercy, a very strong woman, but stubbornly anti-feminine to begin with. But she softens as the story continues, and it eventually reveals the reason for her attitude, which also helped me like her more.

This is my favorite book I've read by the author so far, and it just bumped up into first place for the Daughters of the Mayflower series (which are by a number of different authors). It is most enjoyable.

Thank you Barbour and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Daughters of the Mayflower
1. The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse
2. The Pirate Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo
3. The Captured Bride by Michelle Griep
4. The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse
5. The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear
6. The Liberty Bride by MaryLu Tyndall

The Darkwater Saga by Patrick W Carr

I had considered the reviewing each book of the trilogy separately, but the reality is they could be one near-1500 page volume, so close do the books follow on each other and so intricately are they entwined. There's hardly any repeat of information from the previous books (which I, reading them all in the course of a week, appreciated, but I feel for anyone who had to wait a year to complete the series).

Willet Dura, an investigator in the king's service, suffers from the aftereffects of war, one of the more peculiar traits being a subconscious knowledge of when a murder has occurred in the city. His investigations lead him from mysterious murders to secrets sects and an evil from the Darkwater that could spell the end of humanity.

This is one intricately-plotted story. Nothing is wasted; everything is important enough to come back again, no matter how inconsequential it seems at the beginning. The world-building is incredibly intricate, with complex politics not only amongst monarchs and their courts, but also within the church (and their relations to said monarchs), and even those politics vary by region, as they would in real life. From one kingdom to the next, cultures change, traditions differ, accents appear. There was a ton of thought put into building this world.

The characters, no matter how young or old, wise or foolish, all have their flaws, and all are given ample opportunity to grow. It's discouraging at times how long it takes the members of the Vigil to trust Willet, but in spite of his frustration and anger, he doesn't give in to pettiness, but learns profound grace, as they themselves also learn. I liked how the author created Willet; there is no doubt he's a good guy, but he is much darker than the typical hero, and he stands out all the more for it.

As allegory goes, it isn't nearly as heavy-handed as CS Lewis. There are many parallels with the bible--Lucifer's fall, the triune God, gifts of the Spirit; there are also many parallels with today's church, in both its truth and brokenness, that can convict from this fantasy world as easily as straight up admonitions from ours. There are powerful examples of grace and redemption, especially in the final volume. The author does an incredible job of pointing to truth while remaining true to the spirit of his story.

While I enjoyed the earlier volumes of the story, the final is truly the masterpiece. I can't see any way it could have more fittingly concluded the story. It's bittersweet, as the best heroic tales are (such as Lord of the Rings), and the world can never be as it once was, but maybe--in time, when healing has run its course and some of the horror has washed away--it can be better, and they'll be better prepared when evil raises its head again.

A 5-star series.

The Darkwater Saga
0.5: "By Divine Rite" (prequel novella, highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the world and Willet Dura)
1. The Shock of Night
2. The Shattered Vigil
3. The Wounded Shadow

Susan May Warren's "Storm Front"

When a tornado hits a small town in Minnesota, a number of track students go missing, as well as PEAK Rescue leader Chet King. Ty Remington, along with the rest of the PEAK team, come out to search for him. What Ty isn't expecting is to run straight into photographer Brette Arnold--the woman who stole his heart two years ago. Can they find the missing before the next storm hits?

Ty is definitely my favorite of the PEAK guys--he's wounded and sometimes down on himself, but he's not prone to idiotic decisions. He's genuine. Incredibly sweet. Never gives up hope. And he has a protective streak (or maybe a hero complex) that has him stepping in time and time again to rescue whoever needs help. He is undeniably the best.

Having seen people going through breast cancer, I had no trouble picturing the emaciated, short-haired Brette we see in this book. Given all that she has been through, I can understand how she has utterly lost hope and cares so little for her survival. But that's why Ty is such a great match for her--he refuses to let go of hope, loves her where she's at.

It was fun having this book take place in Minnesota (being the best state, of course). As I've come to expect from this series, the adventure was intense--nature is forceful and capricious enough almost to be its own character. This might be my favorite of the series thus far.

Thank you Revell and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Montana Rescue
1. Wild Montana Skies
2. Rescue Me
3. A Matter of Trust
4. Troubled Waters

5. Storm Front
6. Wait For Me (November 2018)

"How to be a Perfect Christian: Your Comprehensive Guide to Flawless Spiritual Living" by the Babylon Bee

With a biting, satirical style reminiscent of The Onion, How to Be a Perfect Christian takes a humorous look at the quirks of cultural Christianity while subtly challenging the reader to search for more than a cultural faith.

If you read A Modest Proposal in high school English and came out believing that Jonathan Swift was advocating the eating of babies to alleviate the Irish potato famine, then you probably shouldn't read this book. Because like A Modest Proposal, How to be a Perfect Christian is a very pointed satire, and none of the advice in it should be taken literally.

If you are looking for a book that gives practical advice on how to improve your walk with Christ, then this probably isn't the book for you. Does it include truth? Yes. The gospel? Yes. But this is first and foremost a satire: it's pointing out traps we fall into as we strive to be the perfect Christians, rather than obtaining perfection through the Holy Spirit and Christ. And it's doing it in a way that sounds like it's advocating one thing, but in truth it's advocating something quite different.

Conclusion: If you don't get satire, don't read this book.

That said, this is an incredibly funny book for Christians who appreciate satire and sarcastic humor (and know when not to take the written word at face value). It makes fun of all the nit-picky little things we do that don't actually have a bearing on our salvation, as well as things that we sometimes elevate to greater importance than, say, the gospel, salvation, and glorifying God.

There were a few moments when the satire felt uncomfortably pointed and hit closer to the home than was fun, but that's basically the point of satire: to point out the follies of a system in order to redirect it to what it should be. And this book certainly does that.

Thank you, WaterBrook Multnomah, for the complimentary book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Rachel Dylan's "Lone Witness"

Prosecutor Sophie Dawson is the lone witness to a gang-related double-homicide. Though threats against her are escalating, Sophie is more concerned with prosecuting her latest case--an embezzlement case that might be more than it seems.  Private security guard Cooper Knight comes along side to protect her, but as the danger increases, will he be able to keep her safe?

It was interesting seeing yet again different aspects of the justice system; the first book in the series was an eye-opener for me, and this one managed to cover significantly different ground. I really enjoyed the legal aspects of the story--both Sophie's prosecution case and her trial as a witness. I have to say, both cases went in directions I did not anticipate, and that makes it all the more enjoyable for me, though I'd have loved to see more of Sophie in her role as a prosecutor. I also had fun trying to determine if/how the two cases would intertwine (not an uncommon occurrence in a suspense novel).

I thought the Ashley-Patrick dynamic was an interesting one--and more dynamic, actually than the romance between Sophie and Cooper--even though this secondary couple's relationship isn't a romantic one (though I would lay even odds it could go that way). I'd had high hopes for both Cooper and Sophie after the first book, so it was a little disappointing to realize I'd have enjoyed the story just as much or more if there had been no romance at all.

However, it is a solid legal suspense. It would make a great courtroom drama for TV.

Thank you Bethany House for the complimentary book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Atlanta Justice
1. Deadly Proof
2. Lone Witness
3. Breach of Trust