Welcome to the Blog Tour for K-9 Ranch Protection by Darlene L. Turner, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
About the Book
Title: K-9 Ranch Protection Series: Crisis Rescue Team #6 Author: Darlene L Turner Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense Release Date: September 24, 2024 Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense A killer on the loose. A K-9 keeping watch. Police constable Izzy Tremblay knows her father’s death was no accident, so when she finally discovers a lead and is immediately attacked, her suspicions are confirmed. The ambush leaves her in the hospital with three hours of crucial memory missing, which she knows holds the key to finding her father’s murderer. For protection, she takes refuge with her ex-partner, Austin Murray, on his K-9 ranch while she races to uncover the truth. But with danger still lurking, can they stay alive long enough to take down a killer? PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Harlequin | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub More Books In This Series About the AuthorDarlene L. Turner is an award-winning and a Publishers Weekly best-selling author and lives with her husband Jeff in Ontario, Canada. Her love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message. Connect with Darlene by visiting darlenelturner.com, where there’s suspense beyond borders, to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
My Impressions
“We don’t hide our gifts. God gave them to us for a reason. Use it, Izzy.”
K-9 Ranch Protection by Darlene L. Turner has so many elements that make it exciting and fun! I loved learning about hyperthymesia in our female protagonist, Constable Izzy Tremblay. With her perfect memory, she can easily help solve cases. Until the one case closest to her, her father’s murder, officially ruled an accident, again turns into a dead end as Izzy suffers from amnesia.
We also have the male protagonist, Austin Murray, a former crush, who left the force after an important crisis. He has turned to raising and training police dogs on his ranch. I loved his deep connection with his dogs, especially Névé, a beautiful, sensitive Malamute. Izzy doesn’t want to trust Austin again… but no one else believes her father’s death was a murder.
You’ll read this romantic suspense, looking around every object and trying to see past the eyes of every character you meet. Just who could be the mastermind, “Padilla,” who seems to have inside info on Izzy and and Austin’s every move?
“They would never be safe from Padilla if they didn’t soon find answers to the missing pieces of her perfect memory. Somehow, they held the key.”
While searching for the killer, Izzy and Austin can only hope and pray to find him or her before he or she takes them or Izzy’s family out permanently. On the run physically, Austin deals with guilt over that long ago event and feels rejected by his birth parents. Izzy is upset with God because He is not clearly laying out His path for her.
Can Izzy and Austin safely find the murderous mastermind and make peace with their pasts and with God?
I did feel one character’s words didn’t line up with their actions timing-wise for me. But overall, a very enjoyable story!
I received a copy of the book from the author and Just Read Tours, plus I bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“It’s just the unknown and I hate the unknown.” She chewed on her lip. “It’s why I’m struggling with God right now. He seems to have hidden His path for me.”
“He was unworthy of love. His biological parents had proven that to him when they gave him up for adoption. They didn’t want him. And neither did any woman.”
“Son, being adopted is a gift. It means God loved you enough to send you into our lives for safekeeping. Until one day, when you grow up and have kids, you can show them how love works. It’s not about the bloodline. It’s about love—pure and simple.”
“It’s hard to see God’s journey for us when we can’t even see around the bend in front of us. He knows the big picture.”
“Austin positioned himself beside Izzy, his woodsy scent wafting into her space. Don’t do that to me. It was getting harder and harder to keep herself from falling for this man a second time.”
“Well, God doesn’t seem to show me His path for me anymore or be listening to my prayers.” “Sometimes God shows us, but our blinders prevent us from seeing His plan.”
”Trusting in Someone you can’t see isn’t easy.”
“I don’t understand why God chooses some circumstances to take longer than others, but what I do know is, He knows best and I trust His timing. I trust in His journey for me. For us.”
My Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Great! You have to love a K-9 trainer and an amnesia victim story!
Tour Giveaway
(4) winners will each receive a $25 Amazon egift card!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 23, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 30, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.
He’s bent on destroying everything she values, stealing her heart in the process.
As a vicar’s daughter, Emily Thompson has always put her family’s reputation first, even when it meant setting aside her aspirations of joining the Royal Art Academy. But when a notorious London rake is accosted in her sleepy Costwold village and her quick thinking saves the libertine’s blackened soul, that reputation she’s so carefully guarded is left vulnerable to vicious gossip.
Agent Lord Jacob Edward Warren’s silver tongue can’t save him when he’s staring down the barrel of a vengeful husband’s gun. but an enchanting damsel’s skill with a bow and arrow offers him the hope of tomorrow. Intrigued by Miss Thompson’s quiet charm, he commissions the budding artist to paint his portrait, but his intensions change when he discovers this beguiling beauty holds not only his chance at redemption but also the intelligence he’s been assigned to gather.
The time spent in Lord Warren’s company has Emily wondering if he’s hiding more than charm and wit behind his reputation as a rake. But when she’s drawn into Jacob’s noble cause, the web of danger proves more perilous than either of them are prepared to face.
Lorri Dudleyhas been a finalist in numerous writing contests and has a master’s degree in Psychology. She lives in Ashland, Massachusetts with her husband and three teenage sons, where writing romance allows her an escape from her testosterone filled household.
More from Lorri
Before I started writing books, I used to teach art at a local Christian school for first through fifth grade. Having a main character as an artist was a delight. I wrote Emily’s view of vibrant colors, light and shadows, shapes, and perspective from my personal experience and enjoyed putting an artist’s visual viewpoint into words.
A clash of characters—the Neoclassic vs. Romantic method
The early 1800s ushered in a change from the Neoclassical to the Romantic movement. (They had me at romantic.) Neoclassical art focused on traditional subject matter, often contemporary Lord and Ladies, political figures, or Roman mythological characters. The style used prominent horizontal and vertical renderings in a shallow space with sober colors, and brush strokes weren’t to be seen. Romanticism, on the other hand, focused on imagination, an awe of nature, emotion, and individualism. Romanticists painted with a broader brush—literally and figuratively.
Emily and Jacob’s relationship becomes the merging of the two art movements. Although Emily is artistic, she’s traditional and holds herself in check, afraid to make mistakes or act freely due to a fear of people’s perceptions and being a vicar’s daughter. She sees the world in bright colors and displays a touch of Romanticism in her artwork. When not painting, Emily sees herself and her future in plain and sobering colors. She keeps her world small and shallow to protect her family’s reputation, especially her beloved and impressionable younger brother.
Lord Jacob Warren is the born-to-be-wild, laugh in the face of danger, third-born son, who doesn’t care a wit what others think as long as he accomplishes his mission as a spy. However, his individualistic, romantic side is intrigued by the vicar’s daughter who saves his life, and he’s curious about the woman who’d pound on his chest and scream, “You will live, in Jesus’s name!” His emotions stir when Emily notices details about him that others never bothered to learn and becomes charmed by her natural beauty.
Jacob and Emily may paint with different brushstrokes, but their love, when blended, demonstrates a powerful masterpiece, the kind of love that only God could orchestrate.
Enjoy!
My Impressions
I enjoyed this historical fiction novel, Redeeming the Rake by Lorri Dudley. With a good girl falls for the bad guy trope, we see lots of action, intrigue, many faith nuggets, and much character growth in several different characters. Adoption, trying to penalize oneself for mistakes made, rejection, forgiveness for others and oneself are all themes. Although, the biggest theme is that God loves all people He has made and is willing to have even the worst turn to him in repentance and receive forgiveness.
Reading the author notes is always enlightening. It is interesting to learn that part of the story is based on historical legend and rumor.
Some great twists are involved in the story.
My fave secondary character is the vicar. He is so unassuming, yet he appears in the story at critical times to give wise, godly advise.
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“We all have worth. Do you know how I know?” Christian shook his head. “Because Jesus paid a high price for us.” “On the cross?” “Indeed.” Emily slid her fingers down his arms and squeezed Christian’s hands. “You and I are precious to God.”
“Once you’ve tasted purpose, you won’t be satisfied with merely living.”
“You’re a child of God. He created ye special, and God doesn’t make mistakes.”
“Welcome to the upside-down world of Jesus, where the meek inherit the earth and the poor in spirit are the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. Where we forgive those who have wronged us, and where whatever you do for the least of these you do for God.”
“Our sins don’t have to define us. It speaks to a person’s character when they genuinely repent.”
But when you take the couple out of Texas, is the romance lost too?
Ronnie Webb has broken her engagement to the love of her life, Carlos (Cal) Garcia, or would have if the stupid ring would come off her finger.
To find the space to get over him and the rest of what is going wrong in her life, she leaves her dad’s Texas ranch to visit her aunt and family in Kokomo, Indiana.
But hanging out with the Weather Girls, especially with their cardinal in the sycamore legend sending out strong vibes, Ronnie’s love life may not be as dead as she thinks.
Carlitos can’t believe the letter Ronnie left him right before Christmas—his last one at home before his enlistment starts. However, his broken wrist might just be the break he needs to get Ronnie back before it’s too late.
But what does this native Texan know about mid-western Hoosier romance?
And can he learn, or is this the end?
Ronnie: A Sweet, Quirky Romantic Yarn is book five in the Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue series. Inspired by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons’ 1960’s song of the name, this charming tale with a bit of western influence finishes off 1972 and brings you into the New Year in Kokomo, Indiana.
You will enjoy this sweet and wholesome romcom with a touch of western flavor because everyone dreams of their own cowboy romance.
Historical Christian Romance author, Jennifer Lynn Cary, likes to say you can take the girl out of Indiana, but you can’t take the Hoosier out of the girl. Now transplanted to the Arizona desert, this direct descendant of Davy Crockett and her husband of forty plus years enjoy time with family where she shares tales of her small-town heritage and family legacies with their grandchildren. She is the author of The Crockett Chronicles series, The Relentless series, and The Weather Girls trilogy as well as the stand-alone novel, Cheryl’s Going Home, her novella Tales of the Hob Nob Annex Café, and her split-time novels The Traveling Prayer Shawl and The Forgotten Gratitude Journal. Her current spin-off series, The Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue, contains standalones with a common thread.
More from Jennifer
In the first chapter of Ronnie, Carlitos comes home to his mom making his favorite, Pozole. It is a Mexican soup, and the first time I had it was at my neighbor’s house. She has given me her recipe and permission to share it with you all. Two things to keep in mind: first, she and I had to work to translate this from Spanish to English. We did our best, but if you don’t understand something, just give it your best shot—or ask me. I might be able to figure it out. Maybe. Two, she usually makes big batches of this, and she cut it back for a “normal” size. So feel free to adjust as needed.
Most of all, though, enjoy!
Pozole Recipe by Araceli Estrada (my amazing neighbor and friend)
Ingredients:
For meat pot-
4 lbs. of bone-in pork loin
½ white onion–diced
1 head of garlic—clean off the paper
2 bay leaves
1 T oregano
1 T ground cumin
1 T powdered chicken bouillon
1 large can of hominy
For chili sauce-
10 chili pods
10 Ancho chilis
10-15 black pepper corns
4 cloves of garlic
For garnish—
Shredded cabbage
Diced onion
Sliced radishes
Chopped cilantro
Chunked avocado
Lime wedges—to squeeze over
Directions:
Place in a Dutch oven, the pork loin, the half onion, the head of garlic, the bay leaves, the oregano, and cumin. Add enough water to cover up to ¾ of pot. Bring to a boil and then heat. Simmer for 2 hours stirring often and skimming off the foam.
Slice open chilis and remove seeds and membranes. In a second pot, add chili pods and Ancho chilis. Cover with water and bring to a boil. After two minutes, turn off heat and allow chilis to rest in hot water for at least ten minutes. The chilis should feel soft and pliable.
Remove from water and put into blender with black peppercorns, 4 cloves of garlic, and a cup of water. Add water a little at a time, careful to not add too much. Puree until smooth. Then pour through a strainer into the meat pot.
Strain the hominy and add it plus the chicken bouillon to the meat pot. Salt to taste. Allow to simmer while preparing the garnishes.
Set garnishes out so guests can choose. Serve with warm tortillas.
(From Jenny: Not sure how much this will serve, but it is so good!)
My Impressions
This 70s rom-com, Ronnie, by Jennifer Lynn Cary, is truly a blast from the past. I loved the many spot-on references to life in that decade, like the long telephone cords, calling and reversing charges, phrase “ringy- dingys” and fear of the draft. In some ways, it was a very confusing time to live, and Cary captures that climate very well as she portrays the angst and confusion surrounding Ronnie and Cal (Carlitos’s) engagement and relationship.
Finding out Cal has enlisted in the army without discussing it with her, Ronnie leaves him a Dear John letter and flees to the relatives’ in Kokomo, IN. How can she trust him, if he is making decisions for her, without her input? “Cal had kept her locked out of the decision-making process. Obviously, he didn’t trust her. So how could she trust him?”
I am amazed by Carlos’s patience (and yes, I don’t know what to call him, just like one of the Indiana relatives says.) “I’m getting confused by all of your names. You said you were Carlos, Alice calls you Carlitos, and Ronnie says you are Cal. What should I call you?”
Multiple names aside, Carlos goes after what he wants – but how long will he have to wait and how many times will he allow Ronnie to put his heart through the ringer?
I loved meeting the Weather girls ( I haven’t read their stories, but you can be sure each one is now on my TBR!) and their husbands. I loved how the cousins and aunts all truly enfold Ronnie in the family and care so much for her.
While Ronnie accuses Carlos of making decisions by himself that affect both of them , Ronnie, in her fear, seems to have blinders on. She doesn’t see that her decisions are also affecting both of them. Will she listen to her loving relatives as they encourage her to seek God’s solutions?
“Just be honest and ask.”
“Sometimes I let my imagination fill in the blanks of a situation, usually with me being the victim. That always leads to my feeling wronged and angry and others getting hurt. Straightforward asking, without trying to prove a point, is best.” This is a lesson Ronnie needs to practice towards Carlos, for sure!
And her fear will have to go. But can she really let it? “If you say you believe, then you have to also accept there’s going to be things you won’t understand, but His love is always true, no matter what.”
Notable Quotables:
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
“That’s what life had turned into these days. One loss after another.”
“I don’t want to be a burden though.” “Oh, no, you wouldn’t be. In fact, you just might be an answer to prayer.” Ronnie doubted that. God never acknowledged her prayers. But maybe He could hear things better from Kokomo than Hood County.”
“From the moment his three-year-old heart fell in love with her at first sight, he’d known his destiny was to be with her, grow old with her.”
“it’s wrong to walk away from the fight. I won’t start one, but I can’t back down. You wouldn’t respect me if I did.”
“I realize you imagine you trust me, but you still think that you can control me. Is this how it will be when we get married?”
“Would she need to spend the rest of her life looking over her shoulder to make sure safe places were what they claimed to be?”
“Marriage is never perfect. It’s made up of imperfect people. But God’s love is perfect.”
“Looking back and trying to change the past showed disrespect for the future her Heavenly Father had in store for her.”
Authors: Kit Morgan, Chautona Havig, Tricia Goyer, Marylu Tyndall, Regina Scott, Marlene Bierworth, Linore Rose Burkard, Camille Elliot, Louise M. Goudge, Lisa M. Prysock, Teresa Slack, Marilyn Turk
Genre: Historical Christian Fiction
Release date: October 22, 2024
Once Upon a Courtship: A Sweet Historical Romance Collection A Limited-Time Collection of 12 books from 12 beloved Christian authors spanning rustic landscapes, elegant ballrooms, rugged cowboys, enigmatic spies, and daring pirates! Delight your romantic heart with Colonial, Regency, Victorian, Western, and Gilded Age Romance and preorder your copy today!
Mail-Order Millie by USA Today Bestselling Author Kit Morgan Imagine mail-order bride Millie’s surprise when she finds out her so-called husband is really a spy working for the president.
Courting Miss Darling by USA Today Bestselling Author Chautona Havig Muriel Darling thought her heart rode off with a cowboy, but when his boss writes letters, maybe romance is in Miss Darling’s future after all.
The Privateer’s Prize by Christy Award Finalist Author MaryLu Tyndall Left at the altar, a woman must rely on the man who broke her heart to deliver a message to change the course of the Revolutionary War.
Grace in the Storm by USA Today Bestselling Author Tricia Goyer As hurricane winds howl, a feisty pirate and a captivating tavern owner find their destinies changed by the storm’s fury.
Leftover Mail-Order Bride by Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling Author Regina Scott When mail-order bride Victoria’s groom left her at the altar, she vows to find love, but meets Jack, seeking help on the ranch, love optional.
Clara’s Compassion by Critically Acclaimed Author Marlene Bierworth Clara’s compassion for workers on the frontier of the Canadian Rockies proves conflicting for railroad boss, Graham, in matters of the heart.
Miss Spencer Meets Her Match by Multi-Award-winning Author Linore Rose Burkard Miss Spencer attends a Cinderella Ball unwillingly, not knowing the “prince” is in disguise.
Lissa and the Spy by USA Today Bestselling Author Camille Elliot Seeking a marriage of convenience, plain Lissa becomes entangled with enigmatic Lord Stoude and a secret mission for the Crown.
Abiding Faith, Freedom’s Call by Multi-Award-Winning Author Louise M. Gouge A pacifist Quaker widow and a prisoner of war officer risk their lives. Will the gap between peace and the American Revolution be a chasm too wide?
Jory’s Story by USA Today Bestselling Author Lisa M. Prysock When a spy and local adversaries descend, can a governess protect the duke’s children and her heart?
Priscilla’s Promise by Award-Winning Author Teresa Slack Priscilla Channing wants to honor her father by marrying the man he chose. But he’s not the same man, nor she, the same woman.
The Gilding of Minnie Tucker by Multi-Award-Winning Author Marilyn Turk A Biltmore maid opens the wrong door and stumbles into a guest whose mutual attraction could be their doom.
Twelve authors bring you stories that span from the Colonial era, through Regency, Victorian, Western, and into Edwardian and the Gilded Age.
More from Chautona
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to write historical fiction? Here’s a “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” version that sorta shows how it can go.
If you give an author a historical assignment, she’ll want to choose an era for it. If she chooses Colonial, she’ll need to research what that period included.
She’ll research it and discover that there were lots of places colonized by lots of countries.
She’ll pick one. If she picks American, she may discover how big of a role ships played in that period. A pirate might appear.
If a pirate appears, she’ll jump the Colonial ship for a swashbuckling one and buy an eyepatch—just to get into character.
While learning of how lawless the open sea could be, pictures of a lawless Old West with cowboys and sheriffs might tempt her to leave rolling sea waves for waving prairie seas.
She’ll buy a covered wagon. If she buys that wagon, her HOA will demand she get it out of her front yard. She’ll settle for spurs. The cat will not be amused.
If her cat protests too much, she’ll decide to get him a girlfriend. She’ll go online and order one. That will remind her of mail-order brides. She’ll begin researching. The idea of dip pens and beautiful paper and wax seals will make a serious hit to her budget. She’ll justify it as “research.” If she goes overboard, she might start a story-by-mail service with a new letter sent each week. Reams of paper fill her front yard. The HOA will send a sternly-written letter.
But the deadlines loom on the horizon. She’ll pray for help. Thinking about prayer will remind her that her (not-as-yet-to-be-put-on-paper) fictional town needs a church. And some civilizing. If she prays and all that happens… she’ll research more.
While researching, she’ll remember she meant to do a story from earlier in the century. She’ll buy a ball gown—Regency style. What’s a ball gown with nowhere to wear it? She needs a ball!
If she wants to go to a ball, she’ll need to know how to dance. She’ll sign up for English country dance lessons and learn that the waltz of that time is very different from ours.
She’ll research how it evolved. If she studies well, she’ll learn how scandalized folks were and decides to move her story forward. She likes the waltz. To prove it, she’ll buy vinyl albums of Strauss’ waltzes and play them nonstop.
If she plays the music too late, her neighbors will call in a noise complaint. The HOA will call an emergency meeting. She’ll miss it. She’s too busy deciding between that mail-order bride and an antebellum miss (and stuffing a thousand envelopes to mail tomorrow).
Pictures of waltzes at balls with hoopskirts and satin prompts her to order her own. If she puts it on, it threatens to get stuck when she tries to walk out the front door.
If she gets stuck, she’ll shimmy out of the dress (good thing it was a little big) and lets it sit there as décor.
The HOA comes armed with pitchforks and scissors. Fascinated, she wonders where they got the pitchforks. The gown does not survive.
Her indignation prompts her to reconsider and write something more Gilded Age—the long, close-fitting gowns (except for bustles as big as those hoopskirts!). If she puts one of those on and walks out the front door, she’ll find a man there. Gaping. She may think she looks stunning. If she thinks that, he might pull out a stungun—along with a court order to appear and pay a fine.
When she sees that fine, she may swoon (or it could be she didn’t know how to lace the corset correctly). He’ll catch her and help her to her couch (it’s not a fainting couch).
When he brings her a drink, she may tell him the whole story.
And if she tells him the whole story, he might suggest writing Sci-Fi would be safer.
After a long nap and a weird dream, she decides he’s right. She’ll write about people in space. And chances are, if she researches writing about people in space, she’ll discover that it’s just another Colonial story.
(Oh, and she’ll need a new home. She had to sell hers to pay the HOA fines. Anyone want to subscribe to her story letters?)
My Impressions
Once Upon a Courtship is an anthology of twelve different novellas by different authors. All are Christian-themed, sweet, and clean. They range from the Colonial to the Gilded Era. I read a sampling of four authors’ works: MaryLu Tyndale, Regina Scott, Marlene Bierworth, and Chautona Havig.
MaryLu Tyndale’s story, The Privateer’s Prize, was just as enjoyable as her other pirate stories I’ve read. Jilted at the altar by Isaac, Thea encounters him as a hostile privateer as she attempts a journey North as a spy during the Revolutionary War. Attempting to force Isaac to band to her wishes, Thea’s actions cause damage that is hard for Isaac to forgive, even as he attempts to keep her safe. As the two struggle to stay ahead of their pursuers, they begin to see themselves as they had been years earlier, with flaws that would have torn them apart. Even now, God is refining each of them.
Isaac regrets the way he treated Thea in the past,
“He had not only broken her heart, but he had pushed her away from God, a far worse condition than being jilted.”
Even as Isaac realizes a deeper, truer love for Thea( and she for him) he still holds one possession firmly in his fisted hands.
“Isaac had turned back to God, had committed his life to Him, but he had never fully given Him everything. He had never put Him first. How could he justify such selfishness when Jesus had given His all, His very life, for Isaac?
***********
“Humility. One more item to add to the list of characteristics Mrs. Dalrymple expected Victoria’s husband to possess, along with patience, faithfulness, fiscal responsibility, kindness to animals, and frequent tithing. He would have to be an absolute paragon among men. She’d never find a groom to match.”
In Leftover Mail-Order Bride by Regina Scott, Victoria Milford has traveled west in 1870s Washington Territory to be the answer to a mail-order bride ad. Upon finding the gentleman already married when she arrives, Victoria must find work or a husband. Her hostess, Mrs. Dalrymple, fancies herself a matchmaker. Will Victoria follow Mrs. Dalrymple’s advice or her own heart? What happens when the gentleman who most appeals, Jack Willets, only wants a wife who will be an assett to the ranch?
***********
In Clara’s Compassion by Marlene Bierworth, a young woman travels West to the Canadian frontier, the Rockies, and the end of the current railroad. By marrying the railroad master there, Clara can still teach like she wants and receive her inheritance that may soon be lost. But will her compassion for all people, no matter their origins, blend with that of her husband-to-be, whose railroad exploits these same people?
When confronted about her activities that offend the self-righteous townspeople, Clara avers,
“Compassion for the needy holds no boundaries where God is concerned.” What will it take to make these two hearts like-minded and the townspeople willing to accept both Clara and her husband-to-be?
Notable Quotables:
“Does being accepted by the majority make ignoring the minority acceptable?”
“You are like my conscience taking bodily form.”
*************
In Courting Miss Darling, Chautona Havig does it again! She at once amuses me, admonishes me, teaches me, and entertains me. Muriel answers a letter of introduction and begins corresponding with a Dakota Territory rancher. We follow the correspondence of these two lonely people as they slowly reveal who they are on paper. I really admired Muriel for her strength, wisdom, and love she shows teaching the Casper, Wyoming children. Pete also has many good qualities, one being an ability to remember a “conversation” and ask more questions about someone in connection to that. That was one quality that endeared him to Muriel, and it was a real-life quality that endeared my hubby to me as we corresponded for awhile during our long-distance dating.
I enjoyed reading Pete’s mom’s admonition about self-confidence:
“you are a son of the King of Kings. That means you are to be humble, for you are not the King Himself, and confident because your Father is the King and will protect you against all manner of things.”
Ms.Havig leads the her characters on a very twisted path to matrimony. But, oh, the lessons they and you, the reader will learn as you journey together!
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book one of a new cozy mystery series.
The Hadley family ranch is struggling, so RaeLyn, her parents, and brothers decide to turn the old barn into an antique store. The only thing missing to go with the marketing of the store is Grandpa’s old red truck, Tilly, that was sold several years ago. Now coming back up on the auction block, Tilly would need a lot of work, but RaeLyn is sure it will be worth it—if only she can beat out other bidders and find out who stole Tilly after the auction ends. Hadley finds herself in the role of amateur sleuth, and the outcome could make or break the new family venture.
Janice Thompson hails from south Texas. She is a Christian author and mother of four grown daughters. Janice has written over forty books.
More from Janice
Welcome to Mabank, Y’all!
Some stories are written out of a passion for the characters. Others are written out of an idea for a unique and engaging plot. And some—like my new book, Tracking Tilly—are written out of pure love and devotion for a location.
We writers love to set our books in unique places. And because I’m a Texas gal, I usually set my stories in South Texas, often along the Gulf Coast. This time, however, I wanted to take a trek a little farther north, to the town of Mabank Texas.
Don’t know where Mabank is? No worries! It’s right next to Gunbarrel City, which is nestled next to Cedar Creek Reservoir, a gorgeous body of water that provides excellent fishing, boating, and camping. This neck of the woods is known as East Texas territory, and it’s unique from where I live in the Houston area—both in terrain and culture.
My familiarity with this region goes back to the early 1980s, when my mother remarried and moved to a 63-acre ranch with my step-dad. Though I hailed from Texas, I’d never been to this particular region. Turns out, I’d been missing out on a lot! Picture beautiful ranch-lands, perfect for raising horses, cows, goats, and chickens. Now imagine small-town churches, restaurants, and specialty shops. Add to that the beauty of a fabulous lake, one dotted with fishing boats, kayaks, and swimmer. Talk about beautiful. . .and perfect for a book series filled with the unexpected twists and turns found in most cozy mysteries.
Tracking Tilly is the first in a three-book series from Barbour called The Little Red Truck series. I used the ranch as the setting for my main character (RaeLyn Hadley) to live. And boy, does the story ever explore those beautiful Texas backdrops, all through her eyes! Tracking Tilly is set in the springtime, when bluebonnets and Indian Paintbrushes are in full bloom. I didn’t even have to research to know what those look like!
I loved setting this fun cozy mystery in mama’s hometown, and not just for nostalgic reasons. Sure, a quaint small town and a rustic 63-acre ranch provide the perfect backdrop for a mystery, but even more than that, I loved getting to know RaeLyn and her family. Plunking them down in my mama’s house allowed me to re-visit the location in my own imagination and to envision how RaeLyn would see it.
My mom passed away in 2017 and I rarely get back to Mabank and Gunbarrel City these days. But once I decided to set Tracking Tilly in this area I knew I had to make one more trip. So, I asked a close friend to join me and we made a day trip out of it. Over the river and through the woods, to my mama’s old house we went.
And while we were there, we drove by her church (First Baptist, Mabank). Oh, and we had to stop off at one of her favorite restaurants. Mostly, though, I wanted to see the lake. As I got out of my car at the water’s edge I was flooded with memories of driving over that lake on my way to visit mom when my kids were little. We spent nearly every holiday on that beautiful property.
As you read Tracking Tilly, I hope you find yourself captivated by the setting, but I also hope you see a little of yourself in RaeLyn. She’s an adventurous, inquisitive gal, loaded with zeal for life and a passion for her family. More than anything, I hope you discover a renewed sense of purpose in your own family’s story.
Thanks for reading, y’all!
My Impressions
“He said there’s no point in looking in the rearview mirror. You need to keep your focus on the road.”
Seeing Janice Thompson’s name on this cozy mystery about an old red truck, I couldn’t resist picking it up. Tracking Tilly does not disappoint. There is plenty of humor, a bit of romance, and some mystery with twists. Anytime you have a young, single woman and her 82-yr-old feisty aunt playing sleuth, you know there’s fun ahead!
It may be a cozy, but I was happy to see growth and change in a couple of characters, specifically RaeLyn and her mother. RaeLyn is holding grudges against, well, actually quite a few people. She has to learn the meaning of “water under the bridge.” RaeLyn does begin to understand different people’s possible points-of-view as the novel proceeds, which is good. RaeLyn’s mother has a few things to learn, too. (Like prayer requests should stay in the group!), although her gossip makes for a very entertaining story! Also, reserve your judgment on someone until you get to know them.
Bessie Mae is an instrument of reminder that God is in control, and He will work things out. “Sometimes life’s just not fair.” My aunt sighed. “But God is the one who will have the final say. That brings me some degree of peace when injustices happen.”
Boy, did I love it when RaeLyn comes to the conclusion that maybe her life isn’t all what people were doing to her, but how she was responding with jealousy. “There was still a teensy-tiny part of me that wondered why the Stephanies of this world always seemed to get the best—the high school prom king, the star quarterback, the cozy life in Iowa. She was Papaw. I was Wyatt Jackson.”
Definitely, if you like clean, Christian cozies with a great big dollop of laughter, pick up this book!
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
My Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Magnificent! Fun cozy set in the beautiful Texas bluebonnet countryside.
On a remote Outer Banks island, a serial killer collects his prized specimens. And to stop him, an FBI agent must confront his own twisted past.
FBI agent Tiberius Granger has seen his share of darkness. But a new case sets him on edge. It’s not just the macabre way both victims—found posed in front of lighthouses—are tattooed with flowers that match their names. There’s also the unsettling connection to the woman Ty once loved and to the shadowy cult they both risked everything to escape.
Bexley Hemmingway’s sister has gone missing, and she’ll do anything to find her—including teaming up with Ty. That may prove a mistake, and not just because Ty doesn’t know he’s the father of her teenaged son. It seems the killer is taunting Ty, drawing everyone close to him into deeper danger.
As the slashing winds and rain of a deadly hurricane approach the coast of North Carolina, the search leads Ty and Bex to an island that hides a grisly secret. But in his quest for the truth, Ty has ignored the fact that this time, he’s not just the hunter. Every move has been orchestrated by a killer into a perfect storm of terror, and they will need all their skills to survive…
Jessica R. Patch is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author known for her dry wit, signatures twists, and complex characters. She loves reading true crime books, discussing cold cases over chips and salsa with her girlfriends, and hunting down serial killers in her romantic suspense novels and psychological thrillers.
Jessica loves to encourage and inspire people to forward living devotionals through her monthly email newsletter. You’re invited to join the Patched In community at her website: http://www.jessicarpatch.com and receive a FREE short thriller, Nobody Has to Know.
She resides in the Memphis area with her husband and her spoiled tri-color Shetland Sheepdog since becoming empty nesters. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Management.
More from Jessica
Does Dark Subject Matter Belong in Inspirational Thrillers?
Spoil alert! Yes.
I am often asked why I write thrillers with darker subject matter and should I? My answer is easy and it’s biblical.
In the Bible, you’ll find all sorts of twisted, dark subject matter. Simply read the book of Judges. God didn’t sanitize the Bible or the people, which include sexual immorality, murder, gruesome violence against women and even cannibalism and child sacrifice (you won’t find child sacrifice in my books, so rest assured). He didn’t approve of these things nor did He condone them, but He also didn’t edit it out for easy reading pleasure. It was important to reveal the dark human condition and what happens apart from God; many heinous things were perpetrated by God’s people as they edged away from their faith into disobedience.
Reading this darker subject matter is hopeful because it reminds us of who we, too, can become apart from God actively in our lives and that God can still accomplish His redemptive purposes in the midst of that darkness. Light shines and is a beacon of hope. Of salvation.
So I don’t shy away from the underbelly of humanity whether it’s through an unbeliever or a believer who has run off the rails and needs brought to repentance and restoration. Light always shines in my books—God rescues, redeems, reconciles and redirects. I’m willing to go there in my stories because I know that it doesn’t stay dark. It doesn’t stay hopeless because we are never without hope.
In The Garden Girls, I wanted to explore that darkness but not with pointy horns and pitchforks. I think we all run from blatant evil that isn’t hiding or masking itself. But what about when evil masquerades as an angel of light? What about when it’s charming, smells good, offers pleasure, and seems harmless? Like a shiny lure that is attractive but when bitten, hooks and binds the unsuspecting victim. Biblical principles and truths weave through the story and in at the heart, it’s a redemptive story. One that takes hurricane force to bring a man to Truth, and choice to bow his heart and yield to sacrificial love.
My Impressions
“I don’t believe anything in our life is wasted. This shell is chipped and broken. Been tossed by the waves. No control and yet it’s here on this beach. It’s not so far destroyed that I can’t recognize what it’s meant to be or find the beauty in it. I think the broken shells have stronger, richer stories than those I find that are in mint condition.”
Jessica Patch has penned another very memorable thriller, The Garden Girls. While Book 3 in FBI: Strange Crimes Unit, Garden Girls stands well on its own.
Young women are disappearing, without a trace until tattooed bodies begin appearing by lighthouses in North Carolina. The Special Crimes Unit is activated and sets up a home base in the Outer Banks. Returning there id difficult for one of their members, Ty Granger. Years ago, he escaped a religious cult based there in the mountains. Plus, his former girlfriend, Bexley Hemingway, lives in the area.
I liked how the Special Crimes Unit is like a family. They look out for each other. Especially in Ty’s case, the members are closer to him than his real family. Yet, his real family with its twisted past has left an indelible mark on Ty. He may have escaped the cult. He may be the religious behavioral analyst on the team, but he refuses to go from belief in one over-controlling religion to faith in God, which he considers another controlling religion. While several of Ty’s teammates are believers, Ty feels they are in a cult just as dangerous as the one of his youth.
This is a very gritty novel that explores the darkness of man’s depravity without God. We see how dark the mind of the seri*l kill*r is. We even see how dark is the hopelessness that Ty experiences when that same mastermind has almost totally outwitted him. “This went far deeper than a killer wanting revenge. This was a killer who wanted complete dominion over Ty.” Ty begins to lose all hope. Will God step in and begin to show up for him?
“Without hope, there was no meaning in life. The ocean was vast and shadowy, always reminding her that darkness lurked and was immense, terrifying and unpredictable, but when dawn peeped over the horizon it brought light to the darkness and color. Vibrant and beautiful. That was hope—light piercing the darkness, overwhelming it with its glory and majesty, bringing a new day and fresh mercy. Light chased away shadows and sparkled on the shores, beckoning one to come and stand in its presence with outstretched arms and to be wrapped in its warmth. Yielding to hope was possible.” Ty has been self-sufficient for so long. Finally, the terrifying hurricane and the fiend Ty and his team are chasing bring Ty to the end of himself. Will he give up or let go and let God?
I always like to write down a guess mid-way through the book when I’ve figured out the culprit. I missed it by a mile. Patch does a great job of tangling the clues together like knotted fishing line.
I recommend this book for those who are fans of the NCSI series and its spin-offs. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“And the truth of drawing near to God rang true. He didn’t have to ask. He only had to draw.”
“He needed renewed strength. Not his own strength but something far greater and powerful—more powerful than this hurricane—to allow him to continue. Owen was right.
My Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Great!
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Jessica is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback copy of Her Darkest Secret, a paperback copy of A Cry in the Dark and a $35 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
Journalist Brogan Gilmore had been a rising star when an unethical shortcut on a story leads to his fall from grace. A chance encounter with convicted murderer Melender Harman a few months after her release from prison provides Brogan with a chance for career redemption—if he can land an interview with her.
After serving her 17-year sentence, Melender has one objective: To uncover the truth about what happened to her cousin the night the toddler disappeared. When Brogan pursues her for an exclusive story, she reluctantly agrees if he’ll help her reexamine the original investigation into Jesse’s presumed kidnapping and murder.
While re-investigating the case, Brogan struggles to keep his objectivity as he begins to believe Melender is innocent of the crime—and starts to envision a possible future together. Then a shocking discovery throws their relationship—and investigation—into turmoil.
As Brogan and Melender come closer to solving what happened to Jesse, will their budding relationship survive the truth?
An award-winning and best-selling author of inspirational romantic suspense, Sarah Hamaker loves writing books “where the hero and heroine fall in love while running for their lives.” She’s an AWSA certified writer and speaker coach, and podcaster of “The Romantic Side of Suspense.” Sarah lives in Virginia with her husband, four children and three cats.
More from Sarah
When Stories Teach Us Valuable Lessons
As a rather shy child, books became both my friends and teachers. While I had a few close friends, I spent hours of my childhood and teen years reading a plethora of books. I visited far away places and long ago times. I met famous people and viewed historical events. I solved my share of mysteries and wept with the characters over losses. I fell in love with heroes and rooted for heroines to save the day.
Researchers have discovered that literary fiction can improve your capacity to understand what others are thinking and feeling. Literary fiction also teaches us about social behavior, including how to view the world through other people’s eyes. In other words, reading fiction helps us develop empathy as well as allows us to experience the ups and downs of someone else’s life and thus become more able to handle similar situations in our own lives.
While I didn’t set out to write Justice Delayed with this research in mind, early reviews of the book have touched on that theme. For example, one reader said, “One of my favorite quotes is when [Melender, my heroine] defends her action of true forgiveness to [Brogan, my hero], ‘It was for my good and His eternal glory that I went to prison for a crime I didn’t commit. That didn’t mean I gave up trying to find justice in this world-it meant I didn’t despair when justice didn’t come.’ Wow! What a lesson in forgiveness and letting go of bitterness which in turn provided a peace that cannot be matched. She never allowed bitterness to take hold of her heart.”
Another reviewer said this: “Greed, politics and outright evil are a part of story, but the truth and goodness shine through it all as the walls start crumbling down, and you learn what truly happened that night. This was one of the best inspirational suspense books that I have read in quite some time. It left an impression on me, even if the message came from a fictional character.”
And another pointed this out: “Not only did Melender teach those around her how to forgive, but Melender taught me that lesson at well.”
While I had written Justice Delayed five years ago, I recently finished reading the late Tim Keller’s last book, Forgive, which touched on themes I explore in my book. Today, we so often ignore forgiveness as being too hard, too messy to offer and much too difficult to receive. Melender’s story is one example of how you can extend forgiveness even when it’s not been requested and to live a life of forgiveness in extremely arduous circumstances. Keller’s book has challenged me in many ways to forgive more without strings attached.
What have you learned from a book recently?
My Impressions
“Sometimes, the path to redemption takes some strange turns,” she said softly.”
“Brogan, I believe with all my heart God graciously put me in circumstances designed to strengthen my faith.”
Where do I start gushing about Delayed Justice by Sarah Hamaker? I totally identified with Melender, the 35-yr-old woman, who claims complete innocence of the heinous crime of which she’s been tried, convicted, and served her complete sentence. I also totally understood the thoughts of the disgraced, reformed investigative reporter, Brogan Gilmore, who agrees to help Melender for his own gain. Yet, as he investigates the past with her, more doubts, dangers, and inconsistencies arise. Is this woman he’s falling in love with, as innocent as she claims?
At times, due to Hamaker’s skillful and honest characterizations, I even felt empathy and sympathy for each of the angry, vindictive family members who want nothing more than to ruin the rest of Melender’s life. What amazed me, though, was Melender’s ability to forgive.
Grandmother Sudie, long dead, is a veritable influence for Jesus’s perfect forgiveness that Melender clings to in prison and lives out. “Child, when we allow anger over wrongs done to us to take root in our hearts, we’re saying to God Almighty that crimes committed against us are worse than crimes committed against Jesus. Our crimes against Jesus were nailed to the cross. How can we hang on to unforgiveness when our Savior does not?”
I understand these words in my head. I have repeated them, and used them in my own life. But… could I really draw on His power to employ them against such extreme evil done against me by those that should have my best interest at heart?! I am challenged to check my heart against the little foxes, so if there ever is a time when something this extreme were to happen, it will require no big change in my heart.
Life lessons, drama, fear, ( um, terror, should I say) very even pacing of suspense all the way through the novel had me enthralled. I only put down the book when life forced my hand. This was my first Sarah Hamaker novel, but I am thrilled to see it is also the first in its series! Hamaker’s combination of all the above factors with glorious reminders of life-changing truth could easily elevate romantic suspense to one of my fave categories!! Well done, Ms. Hamaker!!
Fave secondary character? The already passed away great-grandmother Sudie for her great wisdom, and spiritual admonitions given with heaping helpings of love and approval!
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“Find a young man who loves the Lord more than he loves you, and you won’t go wrong.”
“It was for my good and His eternal glory that I went to prison for a crime I didn’t commit. That didn’t mean I gave up trying to find justice in this world. It meant I didn’t despair when justice didn’t come.”
“life isn’t fair, especially to those who haven’t the ability to ensure an equal playing field.”
“Child, just when you think the Almighty has forgotten about our needs, He sends someone or something to remind us of His provision and His promise to never leave us nor forsake us. You remember that when you feel abandoned by Him.”
My Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Magnificent!! Justice Delayed just knocked out other fantastic romantic suspense novels for my fave in this category that I’ve read in 2024!!
To celebrate her tour, Sarah is giving away the grand prize package of a $75 Amazon Gift Card, a print copy of Justice Delayed, and the following Justice Delayed-themed swag: Canvas Tote, Notebook and pen, Drink Coaster, Bookmark, and Sticker!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
Book: Winning the Mountain Man’s Love (Brothers of Sapphire Ranch, Book 5)
Author: Misty M. Beller
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Release date: September 3, 2024
In the wild mountains of the Montana Territory, the Coulter ranch is a place of family, second chances…and a hidden fortune.
As the second brother of six, Jonah Coulter has no shortage of family, yet he’s more than ready to find a woman who doesn’t see him as her second choice. Haunted by the loss of his sister Lucy and the rejection of his former fiancée, he sets out to find the aunt of a lost child his family has taken in. Maybe reuniting the girl with her only remaining family will give him the purpose he craves.
After fleeing her past and the man who killed her late husband, Patience Whitman has reinvented herself in the untamed Montana Territory. Relying on her gambling skills to survive, she’s determined to earn enough to buy the life she dreams of—a bit of land and a home of her very own, far enough away from people that she can finally find peace. But then a man shows up in town searching for her and says his family has taken in her niece, Patsy’s perfectly laid plans go awry. If Anna really is here in the Montana Territory, Patience can’t abandon the only family she has left.
As Jonah and Patsy navigate the treacherous landscape of their pasts and little Anna’s future, they must confront their deepest fears and learn to trust each other. But when Patsy’s dangerous past catches up to them, they must risk everything to claim the happily ever after they both crave.
From a USA Today bestselling author comes a mountain family saga filled with high stakes adventure, a surprise guardianship, and love that heals wounded hearts.
Misty M. Belleris a USA Todaybestselling author with over 1 million books old. She writes romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.
Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.
Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.
Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.
More from Misty
A glimpse into our heroine’s world
In Winning the Mountain Man’s Love, Patience’s work as a gambler in the mining town Missoula Mills plays a significant role in shaping her character and her journey. But what was the reality of gambling in this time and place?
During the 1870s, the Montana Territory was a wild, untamed land, attracting adventurers, miners, and those seeking to make their fortune by profiting from the miners. With the influx of men and money, gambling became a prevalent pastime and a lucrative business. Saloons, gaming houses, and even street corners became hubs for various games of chance, including poker, faro, and dice.
For many, gambling offered a quick path to wealth, but it also led to addiction, debt, and desperation. The lack of regulation and high stakes often attracted unsavory characters, making the gambling scene a dangerous and unpredictable world.
Women like Patience, who found themselves caught up in this world, faced even greater challenges. They were often viewed as mere entertainers or worse, and their involvement in gambling was seen as a mark of moral failure. However, for some women, gambling provided a means of survival in a society that offered few opportunities for financial independence.
Despite the risks and the societal stigma, gambling continued to thrive in the Montana Territory throughout the 1870s. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that anti-gambling laws and reformers began to push back against the pervasive gaming culture.
Thankfully, Patience didn’t have to wait so long to leave the gambling world behind her, but that life certainly left its mark on her. I won’t share any spoilers, but I pray you enjoy Patience and Jonah’s story in Winning the Mountain Man’s Love!
Blessings!
Misty
My Impressions
“He knew what it was to be judged for the surface of things, for the mistakes and missteps. He knew what it was to need someone to look deeper, to see the true heart beneath.”
Misty Beller writes great historical fiction, using the Rocky Mountains and frontier times for her background setting. Winning the Mountain Man’s Love is the fifth book in the Brothers of Sapphire Ranch series and tells Jonah’s story. Because each story builds a little more of the reader’s understanding of the unique occupation and relationship of the brothers, I suggest reading these books in order. You will be happy for the answers found in each new book!
That said, Jonah has lost at life and love…again. To take his mind off this, he volunteers to be the one to leave the Montana territory ranch in search of little Anna’s aunt. All 8-year-old Anna can tell them is that her aunt’s name is “Patsy” and she has very red hair. Plus, her aunt came west to be married.
Little does Jonah realize that in trying to bring healing to a new “family” member, he will bring heartache to himself and many of those he loves. I feel for Jonah. Because he has been unlucky in love, he feels like he is inferior in the eyes of women. Because he is never quite perfect enough in his family’s eyes, and is an easy target for their mocking laughter, great furrows of hurt have been plowed deep into his soul.
When Jonah meets Patience, he quickly recognizes she may be Anna’s aunt. But she has seen so much meanness and abuse from men, she’s not about to trust another, even though Jonah seems so kind. She wants “freedom from the control of any man. Even this one, as tempting as he was right now. He wouldn’t always be like this. No man could be trusted.” Can Jonah convince her he can see past her surface, into her soul, like he himself longs to be seen?
Yikes! The whole social question that is still very alive today- is a child better off with family, because they are related, or might they be better off where they have been placed for a while, and are loved? What is in the best interest of the child? I wanted to shake Patience a few times with her insistence on following her path. Maybe call out the social workers, too!!
Patience having two different names just about drove me crazy. I wanted her to be called one name or the other. But maybe, the way she seems to teeter back and forth on a couple of major decisions, the double name is on purpose?
As always, just when it seems we could be ready for a happy settlement, the “Oregon Trail” music cues, and disaster strikes. This sets us up for more excitement, more chances to forgive, and more chances to restore relationships. This also gives us a headstart on yet another brother’s story.
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“God wants more than anything for us to turn to Him when trials come. He wants us to hide in His protection when it seems nothing can go right. To let Him show us just how much He loves us. He does hate sin, but He’s not a God of punishment. He’s made a way for us to be free, so that when we come to Him and ask His forgiveness, our sin disappears. Then He wraps us in His arms…and loves us.”
“It seems like scratching at a sore again and again for years would make it hard to heal.”
“Don’t let fear hold you back from reaching for something better.”
“But just ’cause you’re good at something don’t mean it’s where you belong forever.”
My Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Great! I’m always ready for the next Misty M. Beller story!
When a lighthouse keeper’s daughter finds a mysterious sailor with amnesia, the secrets she uncovers may change her life forever.
Elizabeth Montonna, daughter of the Tibbett’s Point Lighthouse keeper, thought she’d love the lighthouse life forever—until her mother, on her deathbed, reveals a long-buried secret. Now Elizabeth’s world has been turned upside down, making her question if she’ll ever truly belong and be loved. But when a dashing young sailor appears on her shore, wounded and disoriented, she finds purpose in helping him recover. Although the man knows nothing about his past or identity, his kindness and character steal a little more of her heart each day. If only she knew his full name.
When Owen awakes on the shore of Lake Ontario with no knowledge of who he is, or where he was headed when his ship wrecked, he has no choice but to accept the hospitality of the lighthouse keeper and his lovely daughter. But as Owen works to repay their kindness, and his relationship with Libby turns into something more, he knows their budding romance can go no further until he uncovers his past.
With each passing day, Owen inches closer to discovering the secrets of his identity, but will the revelations bring him closer to Libby or tear them apart forever?
Susan G Mathisis an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands, her childhood stomping ground in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has twelve in her fiction line including, The Fabric of Hope: An Irish Family Legacy, Christmas Charity, Katelyn’s Choice, Devyn’s Dilemma, Sara’s Surprise, Reagan’s Reward, Colleen’s Confession, Peyton’s Promise, Rachel’s Reunion, Mary’s Moment, A Summer at Thousand Island House and Libby’s Lighthouse, the first in her three-book lighthouse series. Book two, Julia’s Joy, comes out in October, and book three, Emma’s Engagement, releases in January 2025. Her book awards include three Illumination Book Awards, four American Fiction Awards, three Indie Excellence Book Awards, five Literary Titan Book Awards, two Golden Scroll Awards, and a Selah Award.
Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, two children’s picture books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan makes her home in Northern Virginia and enjoys traveling around the world but returns each summer to enjoy the Thousand Islands.
More from Susan
A Character Interview with Libby, the heroine in Libby’s Lighthouse.
Good day, Libby! Thank you for taking the time to sit down with me. Could you please share a little about yourself?
Good day to you as well! My real name is Elizabeth Eliza, but I’ve always gone by Libby. I’m twenty years old, born on February 2, 1874. I must say, my journey through life has been quite an interesting one so far.
I hear you’ve been raised as a proper upper-class woman. Could you elaborate on that?
Certainly! My mother was well-educated and came from an upper-class background. She passed on her knowledge to me, teaching me etiquette, manners, and all the skills expected of a lady in society. I’ve learned to sew my own clothes, play the piano, and entertain guests with grace. But I haven’t always been ladylike, and that vexed my mother something fierce.
Your desire for family and a sense of belonging is quite strong. Can you tell me more about that?
Above all else, I long for a sense of family and belonging. Before my mother died, she revealed to me a terrible secret. I’ve kept this knowledge a secret from my father, as I’m unsure of how he would react. That uncertainty, combined with my fear of always being alone, fuels my desire for a family of my own.
How has your faith has been shaken after learning about your true heritage?
The secret has shaken the foundation of what I believed to be true about myself and my identity. It made me question my place in the world and my connection to my family. It’s been a struggle to reconcile this new information with my faith, but I’m working through it, hoping to find a sense of peace and acceptance.
Can you share more about your love for poetry and playing the piano.?
Oh, how I adore poetry and music! Poetry has a way of touching my heart, making me laugh or cry, and connecting me to the deepest emotions. I’ve memorized many beautiful poems over the years, and they bring me great joy to recite and share. As for the piano, it’s as if my fingers dance across the keys, expressing emotions that words alone cannot convey. It’s a form of artistic expression that brings me immense fulfillment.
Thanks for stopping by, Libby. It was great getting to know you!
My Impressions
“Mama had betrayed her. Kept the essence of who Libby was from her all her life.”
Twenty-year-old Libby Montanna lives in the lightkeeper’s cottage with her lightkeeper father, brother, and his family. Libby loves helping her father in his duties at the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse on the St. Lawrence River in New York, very close to Canada.
When Libby finds a shipwrecked man with amnesia, he is brought to the keeper’s cottage to recuperate. Owen is frustrated by his inability to remember who he is and his past, while Libby is frustrated by her mother’s secret that knocks her mooring out from beneath her. As they both uncover more of their pasts, will they be brought together or torn apart?
I appreciated Libby’s father’s wisdom many times. He tells Owen, “Every person has a wound. Some you can see. Others are hidden deep in the recesses of one’s heart or mind. Only hope and love can bring it out into the light where it can be healed. And more than not, a lot of patience.”
I was as unhappy as Libby with the family’s distrust of Owen as he recovers. Perhaps they felt she was assuaging her grief over her mother’s passing by spending so much time with Owen.
It seemed to me that a lot of hurt could have been avoided in Libby’s case if her parents had been honest with her early in life. Even later, Libby’s father keeps a secret that adds to the tension among the small family group.
Forgiveness is certainly a theme in the book. I would enjoy discussing this book with a book club, because it brings up questions about forgiveness and other issues illuminated in the novel.
I enjoyed the romance, and I always like the amnesia trope. I also enjoyed seeing a glimpse of a character we saw in a previous book and a referenced event I remembered. Fun!
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“The simple act of blessing others with words of thanksgiving can change a person’s life.”
“…the past is a lighthouse, not a port. I suppose we all must choose to move beyond our past and not get stuck there.”
“Love is what makes us feel fully alive, so when someone we love departs, we tend to question our own existence.”
This woman and her K-9 protect others. Now who will protect them?
After a brutal attack, it took Nevaeh Williams six years to rebuild her life. Now a security specialist at the Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency, she faces danger nearly every day. But when an old friend is targeted, her fragile stability begins to crumble.
Celebrity bodyguard Branson Aaberg could lose more than his career if he fails to end the mysterious threat against his client. Soon he’s more concerned with rescuing the tough but vulnerable woman who joins his security team.
Nevaeh is there to protect her friend, but what if she needs protection? What if the feeling she’s being watched isn’t the result of her traumatized imagination? If the danger is real, Nevaeh’s only hope for survival may be the God powerful enough to defeat her worst enemy—the one she doesn’t see before it’s too late.
Jerusha Agenimagines danger around every corner but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes romantic suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats, often while reading or watching movies.
More from Jerusha
For as long as I can remember, I’ve struggled with fear. As a child, fear of bugs, thunderstorms, and being left behind shadowed my otherwise happy days.
Though I’m all grown up now, I still haven’t shed that shadow of fear. My fears are more grown-up, too. Now I fear losing loved ones, physical dangers, and death.
People in our culture love to tell us it’s okay to fear. They say fear is natural and even helpful. But the Bible tells a counter-cultural story. The Bible tells us the truth that fear of anything in this world is sinful.
So the Lord has been taking me on a journey to fearless in recent years. And along that journey’s path, I encountered Nevaeh Williams. The heroine of Unseen Danger, Nevaeh experienced life-threatening, terrifying trauma when she was attacked.
Six years later, she’s still haunted by PTSD and frightening memories. As a security specialist and protection dog handler with the Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency, Nevaeh tries to hide her fear. She can function well most of the time, as long as she avoids the trigger of getting close to any large, strong men.
Nevaeh’s story was a powerful one for me to write since she is crippled by fears even worse than my own. Culture would say her fears are “legitimate” and “useful.” Some of Nevaeh’s friends and even her boss encourage her to use her fear as a tool.
But that approach doesn’t help Nevaeh find freedom from fear. Tolerating my own fears doesn’t help me either. Excusing and condoning fear only makes fear worse. Because such fear is a sin which, when allowed to fester, will grow and spread until it takes control of my life.
Nevaeh’s battle against fear is an inspiration to me and anyone else who struggles with worry, anxiety, and any form of fear. Her story shows that defeat of fear is possible. Freedom is possible. Victory is possible. Fearless is possible, only through the power of Jesus Christ.
Do you want to battle your fears alongside me and Nevaeh? Reading Unseen Danger might be a good place to start.
My Impressions
“But PTSD didn’t listen to reason.”
“Fear blinds you and controls you. But you can get rid of fear if you learn to handle whatever scares you and come out on top. Fear loses its power if you know how to defeat the thing that scares you.”
I have been wanting to read some of Jerusha Agen’s romantic suspense books for quite a while, and was very pleased when I could schedule in Agen’s Unseen Danger. A security specialist with PTSD! How on earth is this combo going to work?
I loved many aspects of the story. I loved the close friendship of Niveah and Jazz. They know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and are quick to have each other’s back. I loved the closeness of the Phoenix K-9 group. They were all very different, and some were persons of faith and some not, but all are loving and accepted, without judgment.
The PTSD that Niveah struggles with was difficult to read. As a phobia sufferer myself, I could identify with the feelings, if not the actions. It truly is crippling. I would agree that “Fear can be our worst enemy. You can’t let it fester, or it’ll grow until it controls you. You have to beat it.” However, sometimes a person in our fallen world needs a little medicinal or therapeutic help to get to the point where they can adequately deal with phobias and PTSD. I wish the author would have included a note that not only does one fight a spiritual battle against fear, but sometimes God has provided medicine and wise counsel to help a person be able to deal with those fears.
I thought Agen did a great job of showing the two main characters coming the end of themselves, finding that God is their only hope! I loved the twist at the end, as well as the storybook ending.
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“Have you asked God what He wants you to do?”
“Be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. He’d known exactly what he should’ve said. Exactly what would help D-Chop with his guilt and the dark hopelessness of his life.”
“You gettin’ lost in that darkness, child. Focus on the blessings.”
To celebrate her tour, Jerusha is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Barnes and Noble gift card, a signed paperback of Unseen Danger, an Unseen Danger tote bag, magnet, and keychain, plus more swag!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions 