Anthologies · Book Reviews · Christian Fiction · Christian Romance · Historical Fiction · Historical Romance · Religion · Two Dogs Publishing

Come What May (Anthology)

Serial Heat (Emilie Haney)

1. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?

Anna Mae Stevens had been missing for over 2 weeks and PI Clancy Sullivan was out of leads. In Clancy’s search, he stumbled upon a decomposed body that could have been Anna. But, was it?

2. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?

Willa Martin, a close friend of Anna, firmly believed that Anna had not run away. With her strong determination and perseverance, Willa was confident that she would tirelessly work on Anna’s case, even though she was emotionally invested.

3. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?

Anna was Willa Martin’s best friend, how was it possible she was missing? After determining the corpse was not Anna, Clancy and Willa had to determine who the corpse was and find Anna.

4. How is the writing style or quality of the writing?

Embrace the captivating world of romantic suspense with this impeccably crafted book, filled with enticing twists and nail-biting moments.

5. (for Christian fiction) Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?

We are here for a reason, even if we can’t think of what that reason might be. God is bigger than our fears.

6. For whom would you recommend this book?

I would recommend this book to fans of mystery or suspense.

7. Why did you give it the star rating you did?

I give Serial Heat 5*/5* because of the strong female role and determination of Willa Martin.

8. Is the title memorable and/or emotion-grabbing?

Certainly! The title is truly memorable as it immediately sparks curiosity about the possibility of a thrilling serial killer.

The Art of Deception Cara Putman

1. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?

In a bold move, artist Charlotte Montgomery made the decision to change her name to Marie in order to safeguard her son. However, the burning question remains: Did this name change ensure their safety?

2. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?

CPA Thayer Jackson is set to prove that either Marie took part in organized crime or not.

3. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?

By purposefully creating distance between herself and her Italian boyfriend, who had audaciously requested her to engage in forgery, Marie’s resolute stance has imparted a striking significance to the artworks now displayed on the walls of Indiana. As we immerse ourselves in this enthralling narrative, we are compelled to embark on a quest to unravel the truth behind their origin and authenticate their remarkable journey. Rest assured, this remarkable tale will unfurl before our eyes, unveiling the extraordinary nature of these artistic creations.

4. Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?

We are deeply loved by the heavenly Father. Our value comes from Him and nothing else.

5. For whom would you recommend this book?

I would recommend The Art of Deception to fans of suspense.

6. Why did you give it the star rating you did?

I enthusiastically award The Art of Deception a perfect rating of 5 stars out of 5! This book marks the start of an exceptionally remarkable series that is sure to captivate readers.

To read what happens next for Drew and Carter be sure to read Secrets to Keep, releasing May 2024.

Real Justice Katy Lee

1. How did you feel about the setting?

I loved it because Savannah, Georgia has always intrigued me, with its riverfront and historical buildings.

2. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?

Marcus Cartwright’s friend’s body had washed ashore just a couple of days ago. He had dated Christina Moran but he no longer trusted her.

3. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?

Christina Moran had made the difficult decision to leave Georgia in order to shield her friends from the notorious Moran family. After a period of absence, she has now returned to the state, raising paramount concerns pertaining to the safety and well-being of herself and her companions. The pressing matter at hand demands an earnest inquiry: Will they be able to maintain their security amidst the potential risks and dangers that lie ahead?

4. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?

Marcus needed evidence that the Morans killed his partner. He believed they killed him or had him killed because he was getting too close to proving their part in selling guns to gangs. Even though Christina Moran had grown up in the deceitful Moran family she was different and she would set out to prove her worth and her family’s deceitfulness. Marcus planned to put an end to the dynasty.

5. Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?

Vengeance belongs to God, not man. God loves justice and He will get it. Real justice will be served by the One who avenges for us.

6. For whom would you recommend this book?

I would recommend Real Justice to fans of suspense.

7. Why did you give it the star rating you did?

I confidently give this riveting story a perfect 5*/5* rating, as it effortlessly captivates the reader with its engaging narrative and thrilling suspense.

8. Is the title memorable and/or emotion-grabbing?

Absolutely, as it compels the reader to ponder upon the crucial question of whether the Moran family will obtain the long-awaited and much-deserved justice they rightfully deserve.

Induction Chautona Havig

1. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?

In a twist of events, Anna finds herself at the center of a mysterious case. Her husband, Roman, has unexpectedly vanished, leaving behind a trail of questions and suspicions. As the investigation intensifies, Anna’s arrest for fraud and a potential connection to a sinister act of murder send shockwaves through the community. Will the truth unravel, ultimately revealing the real culprit behind these perplexing events?

2. Why did you give it the star rating you did?

I confidently rate Induction 3 out of 5 stars. The plot unfolded rapidly, making it somewhat challenging to keep up with all the events.

“I wholeheartedly endorse this book, having received a personal copy from the author. Rest assured, my review is unbiased and reflects my genuine thoughts and opinions.”

Anthologies · Christian Fiction · Christian Romance · Historical Fiction · Historical Romance · Lisa Phillips · Mystery · Romance · Suspense · Two Dogs Publishing

Through Every Danger (Anthology)

Undertow (Lisa Phillips)

1. How did you feel about the setting?

The setting was a cruise ship. I always enjoy a good suspenseful book on a cruise ship and, this one didn’t let me down.

2. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?

Clare, Peter’s boss, gave him the job of protecting Selena while she worked on a cruise ship. This was his last mission before he became a full operative for Vanguard.

3. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?

My favorite supporting character was Selena because she was a strong woman mentally and physically.

4. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?

Selena was asked to come aboard a cruise ship by an Armenian General but, she doesn’t know what for. Seems like there is trouble a-brewing.

5. How is the writing style or quality of the writing?

The story’s structure is well thought out beginning from the first scene, six weeks before the present day. The main thesis of this story kept me reading past my bedtime.

6. Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?

We’re all broken and scarred however God will be there when we have nothing.

7. For whom would you recommend this book?

If you are looking for a fast read, with lots of suspense choose this one.

8. Why did you give it the star rating you did?

I gave Undertow 5*/5* because I was pulled in from the beginning of this cold case suspense story.

Swept Away (Michelle Aleckson)

1. How did you feel about the setting?

Venice Beach, California. The Pacific Ocean. What more could you want? I loved the setting.

2. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?

Lucas (Luke) was a strong, silent type, and easy on the eyes. He had no inclination for falling in love. He just wanted to be left alone.

3. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?

The supporting character that caught my interest the most was Malani Davis because she was the strong independant type. She cared about her foster sister and was adament about trying to find her.

4. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?

Malani Davis was stepping in as instructor for her foster sister. Her customer, Lukas (Luke) Berglund, didn’t seem dressed for the part in his boots and jeans. Oh well, it was only a 3-hour surf board lesson.

5. How is the writing style or quality of the writing?

The writing style is written in stong descriptive language. I felt as if I was living vicariously through this story.

6. For whom would you recommend this book?

I would recommend Swept Away for fans of well-written, clean suspense.

7. Why did you give it the star rating you did?

I give Swept Away 5*/5* because of the gentle way the author handled unwed pregnancy and foster care.

Fractured Memories (Lynn Shannon)

1. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?

Texas Ranger Felicity Capshaw was the youngest ranger in the state. She was also single and had no desire to date. She loved her job, but life was passing her by.

2. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?

Detective Noah Hodge was a widower who had no intentions of remarrying.

3. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?

Fifteen years ago Felicity Capshaw had witnessed the murder of her babysitter, Brooke Peterson. The suspect has never been caught. Safety was an illusion and the nightmares haunted her. Now, as a Texas Ranger, she had the training and skill to solve Brooke’s murder.

4. How is the writing style or quality of the writing?

The reader is taken on a journey to look into the past to find out who killed Brooke. They are also brought to the present where the same killer might be wanting to shut Felicity up, for good.

5. Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?

Yes, Trust in God.

6. For whom would you recommend this book?

I would recommend Fractured Memories to fans of well-written suspense.

7. Why did you give it the star rating you did?

I give Fractured Memories 5*/5* because the author did a good job with incorporating narrative writing.

Lethal Inheritance (Rebecca Hemlock)

1. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?

After Sergeant Kelly Blithe’s K-9 Labrador, Sandy, went into retirement she was given a K-9 German Shepherd, Chip. She preferred working with Labradors, even though Chip was the best narcotics detector she ever trained.

2. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?

Rugged, attractive Harry Miller, although he wouldn’t call himself attractive because of the scar on his face and neck.

3. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?

Sergeant Kelly Blithe wanted to prove her younger brother’s innocense by finding her older brother’s killer. But, was he really innocent?

4. How is the writing style or quality of the writing?

The author’s writing style is narrative because she is telling a story about what happened to someone.

5. Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?

“His relationship with the Lord was the only thing that got him through difficult times.”

“Some people face hard things in their lives because God feels they are strong enough to be the ones to help others who must go through the same thing. God doesn’t dictate what goes on here on earth. If He did, then He could just make us love Him and we wouldn’t have Free Will. Mankind makes choices that affect those around them, and sometimes we are in the splash zone.”

6. For whom would you recommend this book?

To fans of suspense.

7. Why did you give it the star rating you did?

I give Lethal Inheritance 5*/5* because it pulled me in and didn’t let go.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, the Libby app, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Anthologies · Christian Fiction · Christian Romance · Contemporary Fiction · Contemporary Romance · Historical Fiction · Historical Romance · Two Dogs Publishing

Stay With Me (Anthology)

Stay With Me is an anthology in the Christian Romantic Suspense series. It is installment #1.

Abandoned (Liz Bradford)

The story opens with a fire and a ten-month-old child trapped on the second floor. Zara Grant had to get the child out of the house.

Zara was new to Hazel Hill and the HHFD. As a newbie, she wondered about the emotions between her and Will Cooper.

I appreciated that the story spoke of Will’s family homeschooling. He had a large family which tends to come with homeschooled families. Faith is mentioned but not overwhelmingly.

Ascending Hope (Sara Blackard)

Emmy Glenn had a slight crush on her boss, Bradley Jacob. We begin her story with her throwing colored snow on Bradley’s Range Rover. Even though Bradley suffered with OCD he was more interested in Emmy than the dyed snow on his Range Rover.

Bradley’s company, Ascent, was close to launching a layer of clothing that would protect climbers from major injuries. However, Ascent had a mole. It had to be someone within the company. But who?

Runaway (Jennifer Pierce)

The setting was Willowdale, Arkansas. Ryan McGregor was new to the town. Ryan had moved to Willowdale so the Mob couldn’t find him.

Bethany Wilkinson worked at a doctor’s office. She knew something wasn’t right, but what? Why would Ryan want to keep Bethany safe? Especially since he was new to her neighborhood.

Rodeo Sabotage (Kari Trumbo)

Bull rider Jase Wheaton was about to live through the longest 8 seconds of his life. He loved the adrenaline of the screaming crowd. However, someone was out to get him, causing him havoc.

EMT Kelly Lane was quickly beside injured Jase Wheaton. How would Jase be able to explain that he knew someone wanted him dead?

Kelly Lane could not forget Jase and his cute dimple. But would he forget her?

I did not guess the suspect, which I rarely do anyway, but did enjoy the story.

Stay With Me started out slow and took me several days to read but after a while, the pace picked up. I give Stay With Me 4*/5*.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, the Libby app, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

#Zondervan · Amish · Anthologies · Book Reviews · Fiction · Mennonite · Net Galley · Romance · Zondervan Fiction

Amish Midwives (Anthology)

Amish Midwives is an anthology by three favorite writers.

Bundles of Blessing (Amy Clipston)

Kristina Byler loved being an aunt to fifteen-month-old Betsie Lin and her sister Katy. Betsie Lin enjoyed having Kristina live with her family in Bird-in Hand, Pennsylvania.

Aiden had been heartbroken again. He had when he left Bird-in-Hand. However, he was back and heartbroken again. He knew what being hurt and betrayed was like. Was he to be single or was there someone for him?

God had the best plan for both Kristina and Aiden.

A Midwife For Susie (Shelley Shepard Gray)

Joanna Zimmerman had sworn off her midwife duties forever. But, Dwight Eicher wanted her to deliver Susie’s baby. Could she tell Dwight a mother had died while she was overseeing the delivery? Could she ever forgive herself? She agreed to be Susie’s midwife but was she making a mistake? This is a beautiful story of love and forgiveness.

Christmas Cradles (Kelly Long)

Twenty-eight-year-old Asa Mast is strong and handsome. Beautiful Anna Stolis is twenty-six. She was serious, studious, and stern. yet Asa made her laugh. They were both single.

Amish Midwives is a beautiful anthology of the ups and downs of midwives and love. I give Amish Midwives 5*/5*.

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

1865-1880 (US Reconstruction) · 1869-1896 (Gilded Age) · 1900's · Allegory · Anthologies · Barbour Publishing · Book Reviews · Christian · Christian Fiction · Christian Romance · Net Galley · Western Christian Fiction · Western Romance

Courting Calamity (Anthology)

Courting Calamity is a Christian fiction anthology.

Lady and the Tramps by Jennifer Uhlarik (California, 1874)

Wells Fargo Detective Jake Hickens has a safe to protect from outlaws. Meanwhile, Mattie Welling and her orphan charges are approached by the same outlaws. Can Jake protect Mattie and the orphans, as well as the safe? I liked this story.

The Secondhand Bride of Polecat Creek by Kathleen Y’Barbo. (Texas, 1890)

Abigail Cooper was born beautiful, and Lizzie Cooper was born smart. Lizzie was known best as Abigail’s sister. Abigail was the favored daughter. Marrying Abigail seemed right to Zeke. If Zeke wasn’t married within a month he would be in jail. This was a great story.

The Bride of Basswood Hill by Gabrielle Meyer. (Minnesota, 1900)

Alex would be honoring a dying man’s last wish if he married Sofia Bellini. But could Alex love her, or was he just marrying her to appease the dying man’s wish? This was a sweet story.

Echoes of the Heart by Amanda Barratt  (New York City, 1909)

This story features immigrants coming to America and a fight for justice and equality. Readers are reminded that Abraham Lincoln gave a speech denouncing slavery at Cooper Union. This was my favorite story.

All of the stories were wonderful and although a short story, they were meaty. I give Courting Calamity 5*/5*

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 

1861-1865 (Civil War) · 1865-1880 (US Reconstruction) · Anthologies · Barbour Publishing · Book Reviews · Christian Fiction · Christian Romance · Historical Fiction · Historical Romance · Net Galley

Blacksmith Brides (Anthology)

The Blacksmith Brides is a well-written Christian historical fiction anthology.

Worth Fighting For (1774—Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) by Pegg Thomas

There is talk of war, however, Meg McCraken has no time for such talk. Meg is seventeen and wants to find a beau. While Meg’s brothers and father are getting ready to fight in the war the blacksmith, Alexander Ogilvie, refused to go to war. Instead, Alexander had a desire to go west.

I was very surprised to see a distinguished visitor show up in the story and was eager to learn more. I would love to see a continuation of this story.

Forging Forever (1798—Cornwall, England) by Amanda Barratt

In his dying breath, Charles Bainbridge deeded his property to Josiah Hendrick instead of to his cousin Phineas Treverick. Elowyn Brody’s father auctioned her off calling her comely. Would her life be better? How could it? This was a beautiful story.

A Tempered Heart (1861—Charlottesville, Virginia) By Angela K. Couch

Thomas Flynn’s reward after serving as an apprentice for fifteen years was a run-down shop, a heavy lease, and debt. When Esther Mathews’s husband passed he left her with a hefty sum and with a young son. This was a wonderful story.

A Malleable Heart (California—1870) by Jennifer Uhlarik

After the passing of her parents, Leah Guthrie was appointed caretaker for her two sisters and one mischievous brother. Bo Allen and Leah Guthrie are introduced to one another because of the antics of her brother. I felt Bo and Leah worked well together.

I loved each of these stories and give Blacksmith Brides 5*/5*

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 

Amish · Anthologies · Barbour Publishing · Book Reviews · Christian Fiction · Christian Romance · Net Galley · Romance

Twice as Nice Amish Romance Collection (Jean Brunstetter; Wanda E. Brunstetter)

Twice As Nice Amish is an Amish romance collection by author(s) Wanda Brunstetter and Jean Brunstetter.

The Lopsided Christmas Cake

Elma and Thelma Hochstetler were twins who inherited their grandparents’ house and store. Thelma saw it as an adventure, however, Elma was overwhelmed. They would be 300 miles away from where they grew up. Thelma saw the adventure through rose-colored glasses. Elma saw it as work.

The Farmers’ Market Mishap

The Farmers’ Market Mishap continues with Elma and Thelma. It is well-written with an immersive setting. The twins had always been close, never wanting to depart. Promising never to marry unless the other twin married, too.

Twice As Nice Amish Romance Collection had realistic characters and a slow pace, that I enjoyed.

I give Twice As Nice Amish Romance Collection 4*/5*

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255