The Girl from the Hidden Forest

 

Description

Eliza Ellis has stayed hidden in Balfour Forest for as long as she can remember. Perhaps her only friends are the trees, or her little dog, or her story-telling father called Captain. But at least she is safe from the cruel world outside, a world Captain has warned her against and protected her from.

 

That is, until a handsome stranger named Felton Northwood invades her quiet forest and steals her away. Why does he tell such lies? Why does he insist that her name is Miss Eliza Gillingham, daughter of a viscount, who disappeared fourteen years ago after the murder of her own mother? A murder Eliza is said to have witnessed.

 

When Felton returns Eliza to Monbury Manor and reunites her with a man who is told to be her father, all she remembers are the strange nightmares that have plagued her since childhood. Why have they suddenly grown worse? Are the answers hidden inside her own mind?

 

As danger mounts and lethal attempts are made on her life, Eliza and Felton must work together to uncover the identity of a killer who has stayed silent for fourteen years. When she finally uncovers the horrendous memories trapped in her mind, will divulging the truth cost her the man she loves—and both of their lives?

Review

Eerie and full of chills, The Girl from the Hidden Forest is Gothic Regency writing at its best. There were more twists and turns to the plot than the pathway to Eliza's hidden forest home. One minute you think one individual is the killer, but in the next chapter, someone else looks mighty suspicious...and then soon enough, that first suspect, well, they look guilty all over again! Hannah Linder has done an adept job at keeping the reader guessing until the final few pages. This is an excellent mystery bracketed by a slow-burn romance. Loved every word and will definitely be checking out more books by this author!

Thank you NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for a copy of this ARC for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

While the City Sleeps

 

Description

Katherine Schneider's workaday life as a dentist in 1913 New York is upended when a patient reveals details of a deadly plot while under the influence of laughing gas. As she is plunged into danger, she seeks help from the dashing Lieutenant Jonathan Birch, a police officer she has long admired from afar.

Jonathan has harbored powerful feelings toward Katherine for years but never acted on them, knowing his dark history is something she could never abide. Now, with her safety on the line, he works alongside her through the nights as they unravel the criminal conspiracy that threatens her. And throughout it all, Jonathan fears what will happen should Katherine ever learn his deepest secrets.

Review

This was another winning book by Elizabeth Camden. Whenever I see her name on a new release, I don't hesitate to pick up the book to enjoy! 

The author picked a very interesting setting for While the City Sleeps. Steeped in fascinating historical details about the "Painless Parker" dentistry, the nightlife of New York city in 1913, and the beginnings of the city's bomb squad - this story was such a treat to read! 

I loved Katherine's spunk and Jonathan's courage. Their relationship unfolds through a wild adventure with a whole lot of danger involving gangs, hitmen, bombs, and...laughing gas (ha!). 

A very enjoyable read, and I can't wait for the next book in this new series!

Many thanks to NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book to review. All opinions are my own.

Wildflower Falls

 

Description

He’s here to train her horses, and then he’s moving on. She’s keeping her true identity a secret. But their spark complicates both of their plans.

When her mother’s death leaves Charlotte Simpson bereft, she hopes the Robinson clan will accept her as one of their own and help fill the void. But a startling discovery dashes her hopes and leaves her wondering if she will ever know the father she’s always longed for.

Horse trainer Gunner Dawson has experienced profound loss and intends to avoid it. So he lives on the move without forming close bonds or putting down roots. When Charlotte hires him to work with her horses and help expand her ranch, he commits to staying for a few months. But he doesn’t count on getting caught up in Charlotte’s search for her biological father. Or on falling in love—with Riverbend Gap or with Charlotte. This time, he’s not sure if he’ll be able to move on—or if he even wants to.

The queen of heartwarming, small-town love stories returns to Riverbend Gap with a deeply satisfying tale of love’s healing power.

Review

I have a confession to make. It's a bit embarrassing, especially after reading and falling absolutely in love with Wildflower Falls, but this is the first book I've read by Denise Hunter. Crazy, right?! She has such long backlist of books which actually now makes me excited for all that I get to read!!

Wildflower Falls is a sweet small-town romance that hits you in all the feels. The characters and all their d.r.a.m.a. (!) kept pulling me back into the story. I took my kindle with me everywhere there was a chance I had to sit and wait so I could sneak in a few more pages (waiting at appointments, waiting for the car to warm up, waiting for the toaster oven to finish...you get the idea!). 

Super enjoyed this book and if you don't hear from me in awhile...well, that might be because I'm too busy reading all of Denise's other books!

Many thanks to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for a copy of this book to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

You Make it Feel Like Christmas

 

Back Cover

It's the most wonderful time of the year - 

for everyone except Starr Lewis.

As if going home for the holidays jobless and single wasn't bad enough, she's dragged into a holiday season full of activities leading up to her sister's uber-romantic Christmas Eve wedding - to Starr's ex-boyfriend. But when her brother's best friend, Waylon Emmerson, attends their family Thanksgiving, she starts to wonder if maybe coming home for Christmas isn't so bad after all.

As Starr finds the perfect distraction in helping Waylon make over his late mother's Christmas shop, the most wonderful time of the year works its magic and the spark between them grows. But with the holidays fast approaching, Starr must decide what she wants out of life after the gifts are unwrapped and the ornaments are put away - to go back to New York City or to open her heart to a love that will last beyond Christmas Day?

Review

This was so sweet and so fun! Loved this little Christmas novella. Starr and Waylon are such a cute couple together, and I really enjoyed their relationship. You Make it Feel Like Christmas incorporated so many feel good themes like following your dreams, leaning into Jesus during trials, and opening your eyes (and heart!) to falling in love with the most unlikely person. This was a treat to read over the holidays, and I hope Toni Shiloh writes more Christmas novellas! 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

The Secrets Beneath

 

Back Cover

Some secrets can only stay buried for so long...

Anna Lakeman has spent her life working alongside her paleontologist father, drawing intricate sketches at ever dig. When they find dinosaur bones near their home in Wyoming Territory, they're given the opportunity of a lifetime and are swiftly caught up in the competitive era of the Bone Wars. But after her father becomes sick and an old beau returns for the summer, Anna's world is upended, and the practical, orderly life she has made for herself shatters.

Medical student Joshua Ziegler left his hometown to forget Anna, the one woman he truly loved and deeply hurt. But when he returns, time hasn't erased the feelings they've always had for each other. After Joshua's nephew goes missing - just like his sister did years ago - and Anna's job is threatened, tensions mount and dangerous secrets are unearthed.

Review

The Secrets Beneath was a bit of a surprise. I've read historicals by Kimberley Woodhouse before and really enjoyed how she brings an intriguing part of history to life in a very unique way. And in this novel, it was super fun to dive into the "Bone Wars" era (something I'd never heard of before!). Paleontology is something that's always fascinated me so I enjoyed exploring that a bit in The Secrets Beneath.

I enjoy historicals with a twist, and throwing in a mysterious crime angle certainly made this story unique. What I was bit surprised about was how DARK it turned the story. It was like unwittingly diving into a Criminal Minds episode, and I found myself flipping over pages that were in the villain's point of view. The villain was so downright creepy and disturbed, and I didn't like those parts at all. It was almost as if it didn't fit in with the story, but I suppose you don't usually read a Christian historical with some psychotic person in them!

In the end, The Secrets Beneath left me with some mixed emotions. The main character, Anna, was a bit difficult to like at first, but Joshua was sweetheart, and I did enjoy the rekindling of their romance. I'm really intrigued on the direction of this new series and hope the subsequent books don't have the same dark undertones...we shall see! 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

The Love Script

 

Back Cover

A Hollywood hair stylist.

Nevaeh Richards loves making those in the spotlight shine but prefers the anonymity of staying behind her stylist chair, where no one notices her. But when a photo of Nevaeh and Hollywood A-lister Lamont Booker goes viral for all the wrong reasons, her quiet life becomes the number-one trending topic.

The silver screen's latest heartthrob.

Lamont Booker's bold faith has gained him a platform, and the authenticity of his faith is well known...until the tabloids cause the world to question everything he claims to be. With his reputation on the line, he finds himself hearing out his agent's push for a fake relationship - something he never thought he'd consider in a million years.

A love that goes off script.

With their careers at risk, Nevaeh and Lamont have to convince the world that their scripted romance is more than just an act. But when fake seems to turn into something real, can Nevaeh trust her heart in a world where nothing is ever as it seems?

Review

If I had to sum this book up in one word, it would be FUN. The Love Script is a delightful rom-com that had me giggling like a little girl all the way through. It's a breath of fresh air having a bit of levity in a book and I simply loved it. Don't get me wrong: I still very much enjoy my suspense and dramatic historical novels, but every once in a while, you need a good comedy to lighten things up a bit.

The Love Script isn't all fun and games, however. One of my favourite aspects about a Toni Shiloh novel is that the characters undergo a wonderful faith arc where their relationship with Christ is deeply changed for the better. While yes, this is a fictional story with fictional characters, it's still encouraging to read how Nevaeh and Lamont learn to lean into the Lord during the trials in life as it's like seeing "faith in action". An excellent reminder that God is FOR us, not against us.

Loved this book!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Into the Fire

 

Back Cover

Instinct only takes you so far. 

After that, you need proof. 

But cunning killers hide their tracks.

As a former smokejumper, arson investigator Bri Tucker knows her way around fires. But after a mysterious blaze takes the life of a former colleague, Bri inherits a curious puzzle from him that raises questions about several fiery deaths. Someone, however, doesn't want her picking up where he left off in search of answers.

When she teams up with ATF Special Agent Marc Davis to solve the puzzle, the case heats up - as does the attraction between them. Sparks fly as the danger escalates, but will they mange to track down the person behind the mysterious deaths before their budding romance - and maybe even their lives - go up in flames?

In this pulse-pounding new series from the bestselling and award winning queen of romantic suspense, you'll be swept up in a whirlwind of danger, mystery, and romance. Get ready to burn through the pages as Bri and Marc race to solve the puzzle and uncover the truth.

Review

This book sure did turn the heat up! In her classic style, Irene Hannon has crafted a twisty suspense story with complex characters, a heated (but clean) romance, and one crazy villain. Into the Fire is one wild ride that I quickly devoured. Suspense lovers cannot go wrong in picking up one of Irene's books. You can tell she thoroughly researches before putting her story together and she just has a way in crafting very real, multi-dimensional characters.  I love that this is the kick-off to anther series revolving around siblings and can't wait for the next installment!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

A Royal Christmas

 

Back Cover

Adelaide Smith is too busy for fairy tales.

She's been working hard to put herself through law school, and she's determined to stay focused on her goals. Then she receives a letter notifying her that she is a direct descendant of King Maximillian Konig V, the ruler of a small European principality called Montovia.

What? No. That's the stuff of cheesy made-for-TV movies, not real life.

Still, curiosity gest the best of her, leading to a Christmas break trip chock-full of surprises, including a charming village, an opulent palace, family mysteries, royal jealousies, a handsome young member of Parliament, and the chance at a real-life fairy tale romance.

Review

This was a cute novella, perfect for the holiday season. Who didn't dream of being a princess or falling in love in a fairy-tale like land when they were a little girl? A Royal Christmas satisfies all those dreams through the story of Adelaide Smith. I was charmed by the descriptions of Montovia and wish it were possible to spend Christmas in the snowy, mountainous country! 

There was certainly a lot of drama packed into this little novella, and it could easily have been fleshed out to a full-length novel. As it was, it kept the pace of the story moving along at a good clip and held my interest until the very end. I really enjoyed reading A Royal Christmas over the holidays and will definitely be picking up some of Melody Carlson's other Christmas novellas to enjoy!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Voice of the Ancient

 

Back Cover

As the eldest son of a Levite and a Philistine, Avidan is torn between his duty to his family legacy and the desire for something more. After an enemy attack strikes close to home, he takes the opportunity to fight with his cousins for the newly crowned King Saul. But when one of the cousins goes missing during the battle, Avidan refuses to leave him behind.

Keziah is the daughter of one of the most powerful clan chiefs in the territory of Manasseh. On the brink of a forced marriage to a loathsome man decades older than her, she has no choice but to run, hoping to find sanctuary with her mother's family.

United during their journeys and battling to survive the dangers that surround them, Avidan and Keziah make a pact to travel together. As challenges pile up, they must not only rely on each other to stay alive but also learn to trust the true and eternal King of Israel to guide their every step.

Review

To me, Connilyn Cossette is the queen of Biblical fiction. I absolutely love each and every one of her books. Voice of the Ancient is no exception. Connilyn has crafted a unique storyline and memorable characters (yet again!). I love how faith in the Lord becomes so real to Avidan and Keziah. While that may be something expected in Biblical fiction, I've found that theme is difficult to pull off in any genre. Making the faith real, and not rote, strong, yet not preachy, is an art that Connilyn has perfected. Her books make the Old Testament settings come alive and her historical research adds a rich depth to the stories. I heartily enjoyed this first instalment in The King's Men series, and cannot wait for the sequel!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

In This Moment

 

Back Cover

Maggie inherited a gift from her time-crossing parents that allows her to live three separate lives in 1861, 1941, and 2001. Each night, she goes to sleep in one time period and wakes up in another. Until she turns twenty-one, when she will have to forfeit two of those lives - and everyone she knows in them - forever.

In 1861, Maggie is the daughter of a senator at the outbreak of the Civil War, navigating a capital full of Southern spies and wounded soldiers. In 1941, she is a navy nurse, grappling with her knowledge of the future when she joins a hospital ship going to Pearl Harbor. And in 2001, she's a brilliant young medical student, fulfilling her dream of becoming a surgeon.

While Maggie has sworn off romance until she makes her final choice, an intriguing man tugs at her heart in each era, only complicating the impossible decision she must make, which looms ever closer. With so much on the line, how can Maggie choose just one life to keep and the rest to lose?

Review

It's a rare occurrence when I finish a novel and want to reread it again right away. But along came In this Moment and every time I look at it (because I haven't yet stored it away in my bookcase), I want to dive into this amazing story all over again.

I loved the first book in the Timeless series, When the Day Comes, and didn't think it would be possible for the sequel to be better than the first. But goodness gracious, In This Moment is arguably one of my favourite reads of all time. I LOVED it. It's such a unique time-travel concept, and, don't call me crazy, but it almost feels believable. Maggie is a wonderful heroine and Gabrielle Meyer chose the perfect time periods as America is on the cusp of war in each of Maggie's lifetimes, making for a thrilling and suspenseful read.

Engaging, thought-provoking, and heartfelt, In This Moment is the perfect continuation of the Timeless series. I'm so excited that there will be two more books in this family time-traveling saga.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Crime Scene Conspiracy

Description
 

Too many mysterious deaths. 

Not enough clues.

A string of staged deaths forces Texas Ranger Emily O’Connell on a covert mission to investigate a governor’s connection to the deceased women. She doesn’t trust anyone—including crime scene cleaner Stone Spencer. But when Emily’s questioning makes her the serial killer’s next target, she must turn to ex-ranger Stone for help. With threats at every turn, outrunning a merciless villain could be the last thing they do.

Review

This was a fast-paced crime novel full of action with a plot that kept me guessing until the very end. I was a bit surprised at the high (and I mean HIGH) body count in the book, and the constant near-misses Emily and Stone endure pushed the boundaries of believability. While this book could've benefited from another sweep of the editor's brush, I appreciated the varied cast of characters and the tight-knit family group the Spencers portrayed. For me, Crime Scene Conspiracy didn't knock it out of the park, but this book is receiving some great reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, showing it's hitting the mark with many other readers. 

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book to review. All opinions are my own.

Kingdom of Love

 

Description

Kidnapping. . .Murder. . .Revenge.
If Only the Fortress Walls Could Talk!

From bestselling author Tracie Peterson come 3 unique historical novels, rereleased for old and new fans alike. Liberty and love--even life itself--are fragile commodities those living in medieval England. Will God's love and power triumph in the lives of these three courageous women? Find out in soul-searing historical novels of romance and suspense!

A Kingdom Divided
Raised in a home filled with violence, Arianne Pemberton experiences love and gentleness only after her arranged marriage to Richard, Duke of Gavenshire. But before she can feel confident both in Richard's love and in God's personal care for her, a mysterious enemy from Richard's Past over-powers the castle and takes Arianne hostage. Who is Tancred, and why is he set on revenge? What fuels the animosity between the two men? Exercising her new faith, Arianne risks her life to restore peace and unite a kingdom divided. 
 
Alas, My Love
England in the Middle Ages is far from a jolly place for an unprotected young woman. Yet the savagery of her stepbrother and the devious schemes of her stepsister have given golden-haired Helena Talbot little choice. She must find shelter elsewhere. Afforded protection by the magnanimouse Duke of Gavenshire, Helena nonetheless lives under an assumed name, ever fearful her whereabouts will be revealed to her stepbrother. Only one dream transports her above her worries, the desire that one day she will be reunited with brave Tancred. Years have passed since they were together and now an ocean and a king's decree keep them apart. But are those obstacles stronger than a woman's prayer for love? 
 
If Only
The year is 1349, the place, England. As the bubonic shadow spreads across the land, Mary Beckett finds herself alone and desperate. Her father, a physician who has been accused of consorting with the devil, has been murdered. Even her own interest in medicine has brought cries of witchcraft. Mary's only hope is to journey north to the home of her godly grandmother, a woman her father once rejected. Doctors and pilgrims will cross her path, and, last but not least, Peter Donne, a knight on a mission from the king. Hundreds will beg her to heal them. Will Mary Beckett, a lonely pilgrim herself, find a way to help her people and herself? If only she could reach her grandmother's home, if only she could find her own way to God. . . .

Review

As I began reading the first novella in Kingdom of Love, I quickly realized that this book was a repackaged version of Castles, a four-part novella collection released by Tracie Peterson a number of years ago. I had devoured Castles as a teen, thoroughly swept away by the tales of knights and maidens and the romance and dangers that swirled around them.

While Tracie Peterson's incredible writing talent has grown over the years, I still enjoyed revisiting the heroes and heroines in Kingdom of Love. The knights are still dashing, the heroines are still strong, and the romance is very sweet. I think this book would appeal more so to the NA market, but avid Tracie Peterson fans will find much to like in this medieval escape.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Barbour Books for a copy of this book to review. All opinions are my own.

The All-American

About

It is 1952, and nearly all the girls Bertha Harding knows dream of getting married, keeping house, and raising children. Bertha dreams of baseball. She reads every story in the sports section, she plays ball with the neighborhood boys--she even writes letters to the pitcher for the Workington Sweet Peas, part of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.

When Bertha's father is accused of being part of the Communist Party by the House Un-American Activities Committee, life comes crashing down. But dreams are hard to kill, and when Bertha gets a chance to try out for the Workington Sweet Peas, she packs her bags for an adventure she'll never forget.

Join award-winning author Susie Finkbeiner for a summer of chasing down your dreams and discovering the place you truly belong.

Review

I'm not a huge baseball fan.

To be honest, the only sports I watch are equestrian showjumping, downhill mountain biking, and supercross/motorcross. Maybe the occasional hockey when my Dad is cheering on the Flyers in the playoffs.

But you don't have to be an avid baseball follower to enjoy Susie Finkbeiner's The All-American. To borrow a game term, Susie knocked it out of the park for me!

The All-American follows two sisters as they navigate life during the 1950s. Bertha is an avid baseball player at a time when women players aren't always accepted in society, regardless of the fact that Bertha is often besting the boys on her team. She's the star player and can't help but dream of joining her favourite women's team, Workington Sweet Peas.  Her younger sister, Flossie, is a real hoot! She's dramatic, excitable, a huge bookworm, and downright hilarious. Their simple life is forever shaken when their Dad, a renown author, is accused of Communist activities.

This was just such a deeply engrossing, enjoyable read. I felt all the highs and lows along with Bertha and Flossie. Susie Finkbeiner does such an excellent job of fleshing out her characters, making them relatable, and bringing them to life. If you haven't read a masterpiece by Susie yet, you are sorely missing out! 

With a story that hits you in all the feels, I highly recommend The All-American!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Cloak of Scarlet

 

Description

She was an orphan of no importance . . .

He was an ordinary knight serving the baron . . .

Suddenly the kingdom depends on both of them.

Violet Lambton never imagined herself as anything but average. Adopted as a young child, she’s content with her comfortable life in her small medieval town with her faith, her books, and her baking . . . and the vivid red cloak her grandmother gifted her. Her one dream: to find a love that is pure and true. Then, her beloved grandmother is robbed by the villainous Baron Dunham. Outraged, Violet finds herself in the midst of the action and determines to put an end to the evil baron’s mis­treatment of the hardworking people.

Sir Merek, a knight in the service of Baron Dunham, has pledged his life to fighting injustice and defending the weak. But when he encounters the spirited and beautiful Violet and discovers the depths of the baron’s treachery, he realizes that serving his employer is not serving the kingdom—and so he sets out on a daring journey to go behind the baron’s back to expose his deceitfulness to the king.

But before Merek and Violet can act to bring the corruption to light, Violet is captured and brought directly to Dunham—where she shockingly discov­ers a secret that shakes her entire world . . . and the future she dreams of. Thrown together in the baron’s quarters in a race against time to save the lives of their loved ones and themselves, Violet and Merek must learn to trust each other to expose Dunham’s treachery to the king—all while suc­cumbing to their growing feelings for each other. Can the two find their happily ever after against all odds, or will the wolves amongst them drive them apart?

From New York Times bestselling author Melanie Dickerson comes a thrilling retelling of “Little Red Riding Hood,” where two hearts must learn to trust themselves and each other in order to save a kingdom.

Review

I really, really wanted to love this book. A medieval read with knights, a damsel in distress, and an evil baron sounded so promising! And I really appreciated the strong faith messages shown throughout the pages. Unfortunately, the story fell flat for me, and I wasn't even able to finish it. The evil baron was almost cartoonish in nature and the budding romance between Violet and Marek wasn't very believable. The writing lacked a smooth flow, and the plot was rather simple. I hate writing negative reviews, and while there are a lot of readers who thoroughly enjoyed this book, "Cloak of Secrets" just wasn't for me.

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for a copy of this book!

The Woman from Lydia

Back Cover

Widowed Euodia, known to her neighbors as "the Lydian woman," seeks to make a fresh start by moving to the foreign city of Philippi. She finds new purpose after meeting Paulos, apostle to the Gentiles, who opens her eyes to helping those in need, particularly women and those who have been enslaved.

Retired Roman soldier Hector has settled in Philippi with dreams of a future filled with wealth and status, pooling his army earnings with Lucius, his fellow comrade-in-arms turned business partner. His hopes are dashed, however, when Paulos robs their youngest enslaved girl of her lucrative ability to foretell the future, rendering her worthless to Hector's ambition.

Determined to find someone to restore the girl's valuable "gift," Hector is willing to travel to the ends of the earth to do so. Following close behind him, Euodia and her servants embark on a journey to rescue Sabina and set her free forever.

Review

This was an engrossing piece of historical fiction that explores a "what if" question of the Lydian woman referenced in the Biblical book of Acts. I thoroughly enjoyed the rich historical details  - there were so many interesting facts about the customs, culture, and even wardrobe peppered throughout the pages. And the story itself - my goodness, what an adventure! The best part of it all was how the Gospel is steeped in every written line. It was a beautiful story to read where the love of Christ and the transforming power of His grace is exemplified through Euodia and her fellow believers. Not much is said in the Bible about the "seller of purple", but I love Angela Hunt's spin on Euodia's tale. The Woman from Lydia will greatly appeal to fans of historical fiction, and I highly recommend it.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Lost in Darkness

 

Back Cover

Even if there be monsters, 

there is none so fierce as that 

which resides in man's own heart.

England, 1815

Amelia Balfour has one dream...to tour Egypt as a travel writer. But when her wish is finally within reach, her father dies, and her malformed brother, Colin, depends upon her to arrange for a revolutionary surgery.

Former Navy surgeon Graham Lambert is sick - of travelling, loneliness, and especially the injustice of the world. Leaving behind the military, he partners with a renowned surgeon, the man who promises new life to Amelia's brother.

But just as the operation begins, Graham suspects the surgeon is a fraud. After a botched procedure, Colin goes mad and escapes, terrorizing their neighbour, author Mary Goodwin - planting the seed for her greatest creation, Frankenstein.

Can Amelia and Graham stop Colin before he destroys everyone in his path and find the tender soul still trapped inside...or will they be too late?

Review

Lost in Darkness is a spectacular addition to the Gothic novels genre. While it will particularly appeal to readers of Jaime Jo Wright's works, even those new to the genre will find lots to love with this hauntingly suspenseful tale. Michelle Griep has penned complex characters, an engrossing tale, and a rich setting that's a character all on its own. I loved this book and can't wait to read more by this author!

Many thanks to NetGalley, Barbour Publishing, and the author for a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

In the Shadow of the River

Back Cover

In 1881, Jacci Reed is only five years old when a man attempts to kidnap her from the steamboat her mother, Irena, works on. Badly wounded during the confrontation, Irena takes Jacci aboard the Kingston Floating Palace, a showboat tied up beside them. There, Jacci's actor grandfather tends to her mother, and Jacci gets a first taste for the life she will come to lead.

Fifteen years later, Jacci is an actress aboard that same showboat and largely contented with her adopted family of actors, singers, and dancers. Especially Gabe, who has always supported her, and the gruff grandfather she has come to know and love. Jacci's mother has been gone for years, but the memory of the altercation that ultimately took her life - and the cryptic things Jacci has overheard about her past - is always there, lurking in the back of her mind.

When someone on the showboat tries to kill Jacci, it's clear her questions demand answers. But secrets have a way of staying in the shadows...and the answers she craves will not come easily.

Review

I've been a huge fan of this author for a very long time. Ann H. Gabhart is a talented author and delivers unique and heartfelt stories. I've always enjoyed her detailed historical dramas and realistic characters. In the Shadow of the River is an interesting tale full of secrets and drama in a fascinating historical setting. I so enjoyed the colourful cast of characters and the budding romance between innocent Jacci and the gallant Gabe. 

The only hiccup I came across was the rather long prelude into Jacci's earlier life. The attempted kidnapping and moving onto the showboat, while only a very brief moment in time, lasted 100 pages and was the source of a lot of information dumping. It slowed down the pace of the story, and I couldn't help but wonder if a more brief prologue or simple chapter would have been sufficient for the purposes of the story. I understand wanting to set the scene and lay some historical groundwork, but I found myself getting impatient to move ahead to the main time period in the story. 

Overall, this was still an intriguing historical read. I loved the glimpses into the showboat lifestyle as it was a world I'd never actually heard of before. It reminded me a bit of a circus, full of talented, eccentric performers. In the Shadow of the River delivers a very satisfying conclusion, and I enjoyed my stop at this point in history.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Pixels and Paint

 

Description

For Emma Trinket, life is a delicate balancing act between loving her family and pursuing interests they don't understand. When the opportunity arises to finally impress them with her job as a computer programmer, she jumps at it even if it means immersing herself in a world she's despised since childhood.

Unfortunately, the one man who could crush her prospects is also the best person to help her navigate the lessons she needs to be a success.

Artistic expression is both Carter Anderson's safe space and his livelihood, but his fading inspiration has him worried about his place in life. His encounters with Emma spark a passion to create that he hasn't felt in years and he isn't ready to let go of his new muse even if she's threatening the sanctity of his art world with her digital technologies.

As each tries to gain an advantage from the other, Emma and Carter discover they actually might be more compatible than they thought. Will that be enough to unify their opposing missions or will the real differences between pixels and paint tear them apart?

Review

I loved this book from the opening pages. The colourful characters, witty dialogue, and the humorous trope of opposites attracting...perfect! 

I've been a huge fan of Kristi Ann Hunter's Regency romance novels, and was so excited to see her next book was a contemporary romance. Pixels and Paint is a delightful rom-com that I devoured in two days. I couldn't stop reading it, staying up long into the night, eagerly wanting to know what happens next, while also dreading finishing the book as it's so fun to read. Kristi Ann Hunter has proven she can write knock-out Regency stories AND rom-coms!  I can't wait to read the next book in this series!

Many thanks to NetGalley and the author for a copy of this book to review! All opinions are my own.

The Swindler's Daughter

 

Back Cover

A surprise inheritance. A cache of family secrets. 

A choice that will change her life forever.

Lillian Doyle has lived her entire high-society life with her widowed mother, believing her father died long ago. But when news arrives that her estranged father only recently passed away - in jail - Lillian is startled to find that he has left a business and all his possessions to her, making her a rather unusual heiress.

When she arrives at her father's house in the backwoods Georgia town, the dilapidated structure is already occupied by a woman who claims it was promised to her son, Jonah. In her attempts to untangle the mess, Lillian will discover not only a family she never knew she had, but a family business that is more than meets the eye - and has put a target on her back.

To discover the truth and take hold of the independence she's always dreamed of, she'll have to make friends with adversaries and strangers - and Jonah, the dusty and unrefined cowboy who has secret aspirations of his own.

Review

This was another sweet, historical read peppered with a lot of mystery. It was the interesting premise and eye-catching cover that compelled me to pick up this book, and I'm glad I did. The questions surrounding Lillian's Dad and his life and business dealings not only moved the story along at a steady pace, but also kept me intrigued. 

My only hiccup was that the timeline of the romantic relationship between Lillian and Jonah felt rushed, and wasn't allowed to grow more organically, especially considering as it was along the lines of an "enemies/strangers to lovers" trope. 

Otherwise, I heartily enjoyed the cast of characters (Jonah's mom is a real hoot) and the theme of being able to trust God with the outcome of every situation.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

The Heart's Choice

 

Back Cover

After witnessing a wrongful conviction as a young girl, Rebecca Whitman - the first female court reporter in Montana - is now determined to defend the innocent. During a murder trial, something doesn't sit well with her about the case, but no one except the handsome new Carnegie librarian will listen to her.

Librarian Mark Andrew's father sent him to college hoping he would take over the business side of the family ranch, but Mark would rather wrangle books than cows. When a patron seeks help with research in hopes of proving a man's innocent, Mark is immediately drawn to her and her cause.

In a race against time, will Rebecca and Mark find the evidence they need - and open their hearts to love - before it's too late?

Review

When you pick up a novel by Tracie Peterson and/or Kimberley Woodhouse, you know you're guaranteed a sweet, western romance. The Heart's Choice threw in an intriguing mystery element that spiced up the story. I loved the premise of following a female court reporter trailblazing in her own right in a western town. Rebecca is a determined, likeable female lead character and my favourite part was how the authors dove deep into her faith journey. It was a very encouraging part of the story and added a layer of depth to Rebecca's character.

The Heart's Choice is guaranteed to become a favourite of readers who love western romances with its rich characters, strong theme of faith, sweet romance, and a dash of suspense. A perfect summer read!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.