Thank you to the author, Jayna Baas, for providing a complimentary copy for signing up for her email. A positive review was not required nor requestedThank you to the author, Jayna Baas, for providing a complimentary copy for signing up for her email. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
Having read the first two books in the series, I thought I’d read this short story as well.
And, it is a very short story, but introduces readers to Robert Boothe and his brother Mitchell shortly after their father’s death. Readers are also introduced to Magdalen Davies who will go on to marry Robert. They’re also introduced to Gunning, who is the manservant of Magdalen’s father, Alexander. It is told from Robert, Mitchell, and Magdalen’s POVs. This is set eight (8) years before the prologue of Preacher at the River (1767) which is mostly Robert’s story. The main story is 12 years after this book (1771).
This is short enough to get to, and stay on point; long enough to let readers know what perils existed pre-revolutionary war, and leading up to it. There is a mention of the morality of slavery as well as certain laws that prevent slaves from being freed. This is definitely a sensitive and controversial topic. Please keep an open mind as this is written from the perspective of the time, thus our current day morality cannot cloud the presentation.
This does feature strong religious tones. And, that was one of the issues leading up to the Revolutionary War – freedom of religion. There is mention of those who had issues moving away from the Church of England and becoming Baptists. And, a penalty for it.
While readers don’t get to see Robert and Magdalen’s relationship blossom, they will understand how the two got together, and what keeps them together.
This had the potential to be a 4-star or 5-star read, but it needed a bit more to it – perhaps the early years of Robert and Magdalen’s marriage. However, it is an enjoyable read.
There is some humor from Mitchell about folks mistaking him as a preacher. I had to laugh about him asking “Why does everyone think I’m a preacher?”
As I’ve read the first two books in the series already, I would be interested in seeing how far the author plans to go with the series and where it’ll end. So, I’m definitely going to stick around for the long haul.
One thing is for certain …
We know what happened after the Revolutionary War ...more
Thank you to the author, Jayna Baas, for providing a complimentary copy for signing up for her email. A positive review was not required nor requestedThank you to the author, Jayna Baas, for providing a complimentary copy for signing up for her email. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
It’s hard to believe that the first book came out over four and a half years ago (4½) in April 2020. I ended up reading it about three (3) years ago. I haven’t read too many Revolutionary War stories. I only know about John Jakes’ series. Baas offers a more religious and cleaner version. She tells the story from a character and story driven plot.
One reason for the religious aspect is that it was a key part of the Revolutionary War, as it offered a moral sanction for opposition to the British. One key component was the Brits (Loyalists, Tories, King’s Men) felt that the King was a higher authority than God. The “Americans” (Patriots, Whigs, Rebels) felt that God was more of an authority.
This comes to light with one of the characters – Rane Armistead. At the time, some believed that the king had a right to rule in matters of conscience. The “dangerous idea” that spread in the Colonies was that each man was responsible for themselves before God. Even Benjamin asks if the king is worthy of God’s loyalty. For those who are not familiar with the time – that question could’ve result in being tried and executed for treason.
Given the topic and time, this will have war violence in it; as well as mention of torture.
Since this is a series, I strongly recommend that readers sign up for the newsletter and get the short story, Promise of Refuge. Readers should also read the first book in this series, Preacher at the River. This picks up nine (9) years after the events of that book. Some of the events of that book are referenced in this one.
Patriot at the River is told in two parts, spanning October 1780-March 31, 1781.
Thank you to the publisher, Revell (a division of Baker Books), for providing a complimentary copy through their Revell Reads blogger program. A positThank you to the publisher, Revell (a division of Baker Books), for providing a complimentary copy through their Revell Reads blogger program. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
I read the first book in the series, which I got through the Revell Reads program as well.
And, like that one – this only as a singular POV – Delphinium’s. I was hoping to hear from some of the previous book’s characters, as well as the POVs of the other new characters too.
Only three characters from the previous book appear, some are only for one scene –
Thank you in advance to the author, Barbara M. Britton, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review Thank you in advance to the author, Barbara M. Britton, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
Barbara M. Britton isn’t a new-to-me author. I had previously read a biblical fiction story of hers and LOVED it! So, I knew she was going to be a “must-read” author.
When I decided to read this, I didn’t know that it was the second book in a series. Because I had a gift card, I was able to get it – though I haven’t read it. Because of this, I HIGHLY and STRONGLY recommend that readers read the first book, Christmas at Whispering Springs. That introduces the characters, as well as events that continue in this book.
This literally picks up after that story. And, this one? Has a different take to it.
Readers of the first book will be happy to know most everyone returns:
Thank you in advance to the author, Heidi Main, for providing a complimentary review copy through her launch team. A positive review was not required Thank you in advance to the author, Heidi Main, for providing a complimentary review copy through her launch team. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
This is my third visit to the Triple C Ranch. Not only was I looking forward to checking in on some of the other characters, but to read about Autumn’s Service Dog venture. Over the past few months, I’ve seen a lot of posts on social media about how there is not only confusion, but discrimination over emotional support animals (ESAs) and service animals, or rather service dogs (SDs).
It was also a unique storyline, and one that I don’t see in many stories.
As this is the third in the Triple C Ranch series, readers should read the first two books in the series:
#1 – A Nanny for the Rancher’s Twins (Ethan & Laney) #2 – A Family for the Orphans (Walker & Trisha)
Thank you in advance to the author, Mindy Obenhaus, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review was Thank you in advance to the author, Mindy Obenhaus, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
While this is the fifth book in the series, this is my fourth visit to Hope Crossing. I wasn’t able to read book two. It and a few of her backlist titles are on a TBR that’s rivaling the Mariana Trench in depth/height. And, while I recommend people read the previous books in the series, it seems only the first (1st), third (3rd), and fourth (4th) books are connected.
Like she usually does, Obenhaus’ characters become like old friends, even the new ones we meet along the way. Some of the past characters return, while merging new ones:
Thank you in advance to the author, Cari Lynn Webb, for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and aThank you in advance to the author, Cari Lynn Webb, for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
This is a question that circulates a LOT in the book community –
Thank you in advance to the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positThank you in advance to the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
I’d only heard of the PROPER ROMANCE line from Shadow Mountain, so this is my first time reading a book from the line, and definitely my first book by the author.
Back in early 2021 (before the pandemic really took hold), I ended up with a copy of A Captain for Caroline Gray, but I hadn’t gotten around to reading it. So, I was only a smidge familiar with the line. Though I would see some titles here or there.
I haven’t been a regency romance fan for very long. And, while I’d heard of the Brontë sisters and Jane Austen – I wasn’t too keen on their books. I had read some “regency” fiction by an indie author in 2021, and liked it. She has a series, and I keep reading her books because they are SO good. I also got to feature a Regency suspense series on my Bookstagram page – and, although I haven’t read that series – it is on my priority TBR – like everything else it seems.
It wasn’t until 2022 when I saw the 1995 movie Sense and Sensibility that altered my perception of the genre. I fell in LOVE with Colonel Brandon ...more
Thank you in advance to the author, Laurie Winter, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review was nThank you in advance to the author, Laurie Winter, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
In an interesting, and VERY embarrassing admission ...more
Thank you in advance to the author, Dana R. Lynn, for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and allThank you in advance to the author, Dana R. Lynn, for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
I’ve been reading this series going back to May 2022’s Amish Cradle Conspiracy (book #13), and I have the first 12 books on my extensive and out-of-control TBR (which I am TRYING to get under control ...more
Thank you in advance to the author, Darlene L. Turner, for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, anThank you in advance to the author, Darlene L. Turner, for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
First …
CONGRATS!!!
This is the author’s 10th Love Inspired Suspense book. Some authors I’ve been following and reading, have been “new-to-me”. In Turner’s case, I was there from the start. In fact, the first book, Border Breach, has a rather cute story to its origins.
The book was released April 2020, and I had wanted to read and review it, but I wasn’t unable to get a copy. I did participate as a host for the JustRead social blitz. I ended up winning the host prize, which was an Amazon gift card from the author. However, that went for an unexpected expense. But, it wasn't until I became a part of her Border Patrol review team in early 2021 that I decided I should get the first book in the series and read it.
From there – I KNEW she’d be a “must-read” author. [I have far too many, but is that ever really a problem?? ]
It’s interesting that the first book I read as part of her “Border Patrol” review team was Abducted in Alaska.
Why’d I mention Abducted in Alaska? Because, Layke Jackson returns. Yes, another character from a different series appears in this book (haven’t seen that happen too much in the LIS line). It isn’t a cameo. Layke has a starring role alongside Keeley and Brett. Even Hannah makes an appearance.
If you haven’t read Abducted in Alaska, you will definitely need to find a copy.
Is Yukon Wilderness Evidence connected to the others in the Crisis Rescue Team series? Not really. None of the other places or characters from the other books return. It’s more a “theme” based series as opposed to being connected by place or characters.
In addition to Keeley, Brett, and Layke … Turner introduces readers to Keeley’s controlling mother (and judge) Olivia, as well as Keeley’s sweet son MJ.
Of course, there are the baddies and the people who help the good guys (and gals) along the way.
There is going to be some triggering content with regard to the characters’ background. There will be mention of a Molotov cocktail resulting in an arson and a contributing factor in a teen’s death, gang homicide, parent suffering from cancer, and an incident of infidelity. Some of this is prior to the story. Only Brett’s father’s cancer battle is a part of the story.
The creepy and intense cover is only the beginning of the wild ride Turner has planned for her characters and readers. And, she doesn’t wait to drop everyone in the middle of danger. It doesn’t bode well when you have an opening sentence where a woman is alone in a creepy forest. Keeley is there to study some plants to see how long a set of remains has been buried.
That is how Turner starts off the story.
And, that is how Brett and Keeley reunite after he “dumped” her some 5-6 years earlier. She knew him under a different name – a nickname some of his college buddies gave him. One thing he doesn’t know – he’s the father to Kelley’s son. Of course, when that is brought up, he has his doubts because of another girl. Last Keeley knew, Brett was going to be a police officer, he’s now a paramedic. Not only did an incident change his course, but his father’s health. Still, his old supervisor will hold his job for him, which makes Keeley uneasy.
It's clear someone, or a group of people, don’t want the remains disturbed. They’ll go to any lengths, including kidnapping and murder, to prevent it. Even though Brett is a paramedic, his police training hasn’t left him. He wants to watch over her – even more so after her/their son is put in harm’s way.
Her mother, a domineering and controlling woman, has her own thoughts about Brett. And, she has her own thoughts about the work her daughter is doing – none of them good.
Keeley isn’t certain about Brett being around MJ, she doesn’t want her son’s heart broken – not after a disastrous breakup she had with another man. Still, she can’t deny the slow building bond between father and son. If only Brett’s own doubts didn’t cloud everything. Before any of them can have a future – whatever it is – they need to solve the case.
And, solving it won’t be easy without figuring out who they’re up against.
Turner keeps readers (and her characters) in the dark about everything. Despite even knowing who “might” be the baddies, there’s always something being missed, and some false lead. There are enough twists that this almost turns into a NASCAR road course. Circuit of the Americas (Austin, TX) comes to mind with 20 turns (The NASCAR cup series has raced there since 2021).
Turner keeps the story’s intensity flowing as well as packing edge-of-the-seat suspense into it. It’s hard to step away for any amount of time – but one has to; if only to catch their breath.
I absolutely loved the friendship between Brett and Keeley despite the tension over their son. Despite Brett’s doubts, he knows what the right thing to do is – protect them. Even his father is convinced about MJ without even meeting him. The father/son dynamic between Brett and his father was also beautiful and moving, and MJ was the cutest and sweetest little boy. The relationship between Brett and his father was a polar opposite from Keeley and her mother’s dynamic.
That was one character that I absolutely couldn’t stand – Olivia. Oh, that woman! All I will say is … hypocrite. She had her own secrets, then treated Keeley the way she did? And, then to act like Keeley was an irresponsible parent? ...more
Thank you in advance to Kate Rock Book Tours for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all wordThank you in advance to Kate Rock Book Tours for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
While not a new author, I first read a book by the author about three (3) years ago – From Rome with Love. And, for the most part I enjoyed it. While I haven’t been able to read her other books, I have had my eye on a few. Lloyd writes both contemporary fiction, and Amish fiction. One of her Amish novellas was included in an anthology from a publisher I enjoy reading books from. So, I’d somewhat expected clean reads when it came to her writing.
I had seen a few good reviews about this book. And, when the chance came to read it – I was quite thrilled and looking forward to it.
However, I struggled when reading the book – for a few reasons that will be outlined here. And, I honestly struggled with this review. Trust me, I literally sat on this review for days and tried my best to soften it, yet be honest.
As with any book, from any genre, there is bound to be content – either mentioned or implied – that could be triggering for some readers. This book does contain some interesting topics/content: mention of miscarriage (prior to the story), reference to infidelity (the half-sister storyline), reference to teen drug use (Panda infers she does marijuana), DUI with injury and lack of punishment (Cliff getting “loaded” and slamming into another vehicle), auditory hallucinations (Joey), reference to mental illness (Joey being a “nutcase”), some inappropriate references about a teen’s body and clothing, and there are also two terms that are derogatory or offensive to Italians (pg. 24).
Thank you in advance to the publisher, Bethany House, for providing a complimentary review copy through the author’s launch team. A positive review waThank you in advance to the publisher, Bethany House, for providing a complimentary review copy through the author’s launch team. A positive review was not required or requested, and all words are my own.
I absolutely LOVE Christmas stories. I could read them year-round, and have done so many times. There’s just something so sweet and inspiring about a Christmas story.
And, as much as I love Christmas, I’ve never seen or read The Nutcracker. Though, I do love a few tunes from the ballet. One, the Russian Dance, was even featured in Home Alone.
Enjoying Christmas stories, and being a fan of the author – I HAD to read this. The stunning cover was definitely a draw. Easily puts one in the holiday mood. And, some of us desperately need that.
While this is a standalone book, and a novella at that, I’m also wondering if it might not be the beginning to a new series by the author, thus acting as a prequel.
Thank you in advance to the author, Danielle Thorne, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review wasThank you in advance to the author, Danielle Thorne, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
I’ve actually read one book by the author, and have another on my TBR stack which is never-ending.
And, after reading a few lackluster books (one I’m still trying to draft a review for), it was refreshing to get back to books that I thoroughly enjoyed.
That said …
I absolutely love the Love Inspired line. It’s my second favorite behind the Love Inspired Suspense. Most of the books are pretty formulaic – the leads are troubled, they have certain things in their past, and they have to overcome some hurdles in order to be together.
But, despite that – each story is unique, as is the author who tells the stories. And, the characters are just as unique.
Thorne has an interesting story right off – a beekeeper. And, let’s be honest – some of us are afraid of bees. If anyone has seen the 1991 movie, My Girl, anything “bee” related can be traumatizing. I’ve only seen snippets of that movie, and what I’ve seen – it hits ya in the feels. So, it’s easy to sympathize – if not empathize – with Heath over his bee concern ...more
Thank you in advance to the author, Laurel Blount, for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and alThank you in advance to the author, Laurel Blount, for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
It’s always great to revisit characters we’ve come to know and love – especially Ruby Sawyer, the sweet foster mom who changed a few kids’ lives. Though, this is the fifth (5th) and final book in the series. Because of some characters that are returning, and some situations from previous books might be mentioned, it is best to read the previous four books.
Some of the past characters return and/or are mentioned:
⛪ Neil & Maggie (Book #1 – Lost and Found Faith) ...more
Thank you in advance to Kate Rock Book Tours for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all wordThank you in advance to Kate Rock Book Tours for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
I’m absolutely no stranger to Amish fiction, even when it is suspense. And, I love a sweet second-chance romance. It’s more interesting when it is Amish/Englisch.
I also enjoy discovering new-to-me authors.
I’d been seeing this book, or rather information about this book, floating around social media for a few months. So, when I got the chance to read it – I was pretty happy.
I have to admit, that seeing “city folks” transplanted to rural areas, can be amusing in itself. I was born in a small town, but raised in cities. However, some of my family was raised in rural and farm areas, so I got to know that life through them. Also, from a few friends I’d made in my adult years.
Truth be told, I wouldn’t mind living in a farm or rural area. Just need internet, electricity and indoor plumbing. Which, brings me to this read.
Thank you in advance to the authors for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not requested nor required, and all words are my Thank you in advance to the authors for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not requested nor required, and all words are my own.
This book came to me at an interesting time in my life. As soon as I knew that Liana George was a part of this, I definitely had to read it. After all, her Hopeful Hearts series was based on someone like Marie Kondo – a professional organizer. While I have the entire series, I’ve only read the last book. Though, I am hoping to get the other two books read … someday.
Prior to publishing, George sent out an email asking readers to vote on the cover. I voted on this cover. And, how could I not? How cute is it? That cute little house with the hearts above it. It’s always great to be part of the process – whether it is voting on a cover or reading and reviewing a book.
I do want to start off with another disclaimer …
I am not into non-fiction books. That just isn’t my genre. I also don’t go for the self-help ones either. Not that I have anything against them or the authors.
The problem is that there are so many different ways of doing things as … SURPRISE … we’re all different. I say it like that because on social media, there always seems to be SOME influencer that thinks their way is the 100% foolproof way of doing something – fitness, dieting, even living ...more
Thank you in advance to the publisher, Revell Books (a division of Baker Books), for providing a complimentary review copy through their Revell Reads Thank you in advance to the publisher, Revell Books (a division of Baker Books), for providing a complimentary review copy through their Revell Reads blogger program. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
I got introduced to the author’s writing when I won the first book in her #SeasonsinPinecraft book, as an ARC from Library Thing. I then won the second book (ARC), and the third book (finished copy) from them as well.
I still need to read books #2 & #3.
That said …
This looked and sounded like a suspense kind of read. But, it is actually Contemporary Fiction. Though Amazon has it (and the second book) listed as an “Amish Romantic Suspense Story”. So, I could’ve been right. The intense, dark, and almost sinister cover does tend more to suspense.
Thank you in advance to the author, Jill Weatherholt, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review waThank you in advance to the author, Jill Weatherholt, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review was not required or requested, and all words are my own.
The Love Inspired line of romance books features themes of faith; which often include forgiveness, hope, and second chances.
Weatherholt is among a long list of “must-read” authors.
I was introduced to her writing in 2021 with Searching for Home. Since then, I’ve tried to read her new releases, and even have some backlist titles on my TBR. There are a few more I do need: A Father for Bella and Second Chance Romance. Trying to track down some reasonably priced paperback copies.
While this isn’t listed as a series “per se” (I’ve been using Bluebell Canyon, however it has been listed as Beckett Brothers), there are two connected books:
#1 – Searching for Home (Luke Beckett) #2 – Their Inseparable Bond (Jake Beckett)
This is Logan Beckett’s story, so I have it listed as book #3 in the series.
Before I continue – the new size of the books takes some getting used to, and packing them in a box for storage or moving – that’s going to be a challenge. Even more so for people, like me, that want to keep them in order – by author and series. Thankfully, I haven’t had to pack them away … yet. Bookcases? Yikes! I know the height difference alone might bother some people. I did see someone put them together and it was a bit – odd.
However, I do have to admit – it makes it easier to read, and I feel as though I can read it faster. It also seemed to have shorter chapters, which I don’t mind at all.
That said – the book’s format is publisher based and not the fault of the author. There is a slight formatting issue on page 94 though. It didn’t impact the story once I got past it.
In addition to Logan Beckett, Weatherholt introduces:
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