About the Book:
Series: Freedom Lake
Genre:  Adult, Christian, Contemporary, Romance
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: September 26, 2017

Jo Ellen Baker is shocked to find out that the boy who teased her mercilessly throughout high school, has returned to their hometown of Freedom Lake, and he’s missing a leg. When his mother asks her to renovate their carriage house to give him a place to gain his independence back, she wants to say no. But one look at him brings a rush of forgotten feelings.

Evan Carter can’t believe he has to return home and live with his parents. Every hope and dream he ever had dissipated in a car crash that cost him his leg. Stuck in a wheelchair, he’s forced to reexamine his relationship with God and the local carpenter, Jo Ellen Baker.

Will renovating his home open the door for a mended relationship, or are some wounds too deep to heal from?  ​
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Snippet from the Book:
Evan Carter stared at his girlfriend, admiring her beauty. Brenda’s pixie haircut framed her pretty face and a soft smile graced her lips. She wore charm and gentleness like a cloak as she gracefully changed lanes. She drove his new Altima like it was made for her.
He loved that Brenda suited every aspect of his life. She was a slam dunk in the girlfriend department. He ran his fingers over the velvet box in his pocket. Tonight was the night. The restaurant staff had been informed of his plans. With their help, his proposal would be flawless.
“Should I adjust the temp?” he asked.
“I’m good, sweetie,” she smiled at him, then quickly faced forward again.
Brenda would make the best high-school coach’s wife. His students loved her and she loved basketball as much as he did. It was so easy to be with her.
“Evan, you made the perfect choice. This car is so quiet. I can’t believe we can’t hear the outside noise.”
“I know. That’s what sold me.” He pointed up ahead. “Make a right at the light.” He hadn’t revealed their dinner location. If he didn’t pay close attention, they’d miss a turn.
“Are you sure you don’t want to tell me where we’re going?”
“I’m sure. I still think you should have let me drive. Then it would really be a surprise.”
She laughed. “Of course, it would have been better, but I’ve been itching to get behind the wheel ever since you bought it.”
“Well now—”
A black truck swerved in and out of their lane.
“Baby, slow down. Watch out for that truck!”
There was nowhere to pull over, no way to avoid the impending collision. The two-lane road had no shoulder and the truck was picking up speed.
The black truck righted itself. But before Evan could even sigh in relief, the truck corrected, ending up in their lane, headed straight for them.
They were going to collide.
Evan held his breath, clenched his eyes, and braced for impact. Brenda’s scream pierced the air, but it seemed far away. His seat belt locked tight as the car came to an abrupt stop.
A weight dropped onto his leg. Pain exploded, smoke filled his nose. His body struggled to make sense of what happened. Finally, he closed his eyes and gave in to the darkness.
​
My Thoughts:
Shiloh tackles the tough issues of wading through anger in the wake of personal tragedy, learning to trust again after friendship is shattered, and making peace with a loving God that we don’t always understand. As Evan has to face all he’s lost from the car accident- his leg, his girlfriend, his job- and Jo grieves her father’s death, both have to wrestle with the deep-seated anger and hurt brought on by personal circumstances that forever altered their lives. However, God uses their new circumstances, the family and friends surrounding them, and even each other to bring healing and hope. And in the midst of it all, Evan and Jo discover the possibility of a new future together as their discorded friendship mends and their hearts are open for love. 

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I received a complimentary book from Singing Librarian Books for this book tour. This review was voluntary and was not required.

​Toni Shiloh is a wife, mom, and Christian fiction writer. Once she understood the powerful saving grace thanks to the love of Christ, she was moved to honor her Savior. She writes to bring Him glory and to learn more about His goodness.
​
She spends her days hanging out with her husband and their two boys. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and president of the Virginia Chapter.

You can find her on her website at http://tonishiloh.wordpress.com.
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About the Book:
After catching her boyfriend cheating on her, Becky Sawyer decides she’s had it with love. This declaration puts her in quite the predicament, however, when she learns that not only is her beloved grandfather who raised her dying, but his last wish is to see her happily married. Turning to scripture for solace, Becky comes across the story of the deep love and commitment shared by Isaac and Rebekah even though they had an arranged marriage. Her mind made up, she asks her best friend to accomplish the impossible in modern times- find a man who is willing to marry her without even meeting her first. Lisa finds the perfect match in Luke Masterson- her boyfriend’s cousin. After presenting the arranged marriage idea to Luke, he immediately refuses. But as he, too, begins searching for God’s direction, he finds himself thinking about Becky and the idea of marrying her constantly until he senses the Holy Spirit nudging him to make a commitment to love Becky and marry her. As the two tie the knot and are joined as husband and wife, they face many challenges including getting to know one another, slowly building intimacy, and creating a foundation of trust as they try to carve a path to lasting love.

My Thoughts:
In a modern culture where commitment seems disposable, The Isaac Project stands as a beacon of promise of what God’s vision of “death do us part” should look like as love being a choice made daily by two people. I was so intrigued with the concept of this plot because arranged marriages in modern day America are completely unheard of. As I read, I found that the arranged marriage was the perfect backdrop for displaying what “commitment” truly means. I love that Luke went into the marriage with eyes wide open choosing to love her, protect her, shelter her, partner with her, and woo her with the expectation that the “romantic” type of love would eventually follow. Oh my and his wooing! How sweet, tender, and at times playful it was! Amazing story that showcases the depth of love God intended a couple to share in the cocoon of marriage.
 
This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

Sarah Monzon is a Navy chaplain's wife and a stay at home mom to the two cutest littles in the world. Playing pretend all day with them isn't enough, she spends the evenings after their heads hit the pillow to create her own imaginary characters. When she isn't in the world of make believe, she can be found in the pine forests of western Washington taking care of her family, fostering friendships, and enjoying all the adventures each day brings. Her debut novel, The Isaac Project, skyrocketed to Amazon bestseller status while her Sophomore book, Finders Keepers, won the 2017 SELAH award for contemporary romance. Connect with her at http://www.sarahmonzonwrites.com/.

​About the Book:
Sara Witherspoon and six of her friends have formed a unique, tight-knit friendship that’s closer than family. Sara feels closest to Luke- he’s not only her best friend but has held her heart since the day they met completely unbeknownst to him. Big changes are on the horizon for this group of friends, however, in the span of one short summer. While Sara is thrilled that one of the friends in the group gets engaged, she is crushed when Luke begins dating one of the other girls in the group. With a broken heart she is faced with the daunting task of “being happy” for Luke and Debra while secretly hiding the pain of seeing their romance bloom. Until Everett enters the picture. Sara and Everett meet as his sister, Addison, plans her Christmas nuptials, and the two hit it off even though Everett lives in another state. But as Everett begins to understand the depth of Sara and Luke’s past, her heart is shaken after Everett reveals he suspects there may be more going on in Luke’s heart toward Sara than just friendship. And no one in the group would suspect what happens in the weeks following the wedding as relationships are changed forever.

My Thoughts:
Oh.My.Stars. I can’t tell you how much I loved this book! This book was so emotionally riveting I couldn’t put it down! I felt like I was the 8th member of this group of friends! Bruce drew me into each scene. I felt Sara’s breaking heart when she learned that Luke and Debra were dating, cried when the characters cried (and got lots of funny looks from my husband!), sensed the thrill of hope when Sara was introduced to Everett and he couldn’t take his eyes off of her, wanted to throw things when the characters miscommunicated, and could hear the sarcasm dripping from every word spoken by the rejected. And I’ll have to say the plot took an exciting twist when Everett entered the picture and swept Sara off her feet. I truly did not know which direction Bruce would take Sara’s heart. The suspense was killing me! The emotional roller coaster ride was well worth it as love covered in grace conquered!

This review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

Brandy Bruce is the author of Looks Like Love and the Romano foodie series. She's worked in book publishing for more than ten years--editing, writing, reading, and making good use of online dictionaries. She's a graduate of Liberty University and currently works as a freelance book editor. She and her husband make their home in Colorado with their three children. When Brandy isn't editing manuscripts or writing novels, she loves spending time with her family, baking any kind of cheesecake, watching movies based on Jane Austen novels, or curling up with a favorite book. You can contact her through her blog at brandybruce.blogspot.com. Find her on Twitter at @BrandyBruce.

About the Book:
When both parents are killed in an avalanche accident, little baby Sara finds herself in the middle of a custody dispute. Although she has been living with her aunt, Kendra, since her parents’ deaths, Sara’s long lost uncle, Zeke, shows up unexpectedly to take custody of her. Zeke feels his wealth and Christian faith will afford a better life for Sara, not to mention that he questions Kendra’s moral character. However, when the will is read another unexpected kink is thrown into the mix. Sara’s parents desire for Kendra and Zeke to share custody, and if they can’t come to an amicable agreement, then custody would defer to long-time family friend, Jimmy. Waiting for the legal process to unfold, Zeke decides to stick around so he can be near Sara. While Zeke and Kendra spend time together jointly caring for Sara, a spark of attraction ignites, although both are reluctant to pursue their attraction. Kendra feels that she won’t measure up to Zeke’s high standards, and Zeke is not only wary about the age gap between them, but is also still uncertain about Kendra’s wavering faith not to mention what he perceives as her slippery morals. As they volley for custody of Sara, their growing feelings and strong attraction to one another creates complications until Kendra and Zeke are drawn to a decision point about all of their futures.

My Thoughts:
I chose to read this book for a book challenge I was participating in and thought the plot sounded interesting. However, I walk away from this book feeling disappointed. There was so much potential here that never surfaced. Character development was minimal. The “attraction” between Zeke and Kendra seemed more lust on his side and more infatuation with an older man on Kendra’s side. In time their feelings did seem to development more romantically but not enough to validate the ending of the story in my opinion. I also felt that the middle of the book dragged, and it seemed that Zeke especially just kept going round and round on the same issues- attraction to Kendra, she’s not good enough for him, his moral standards are so much grander, he can provide a better life, soft spot for something Kendra does, back to attraction for Kendra, and the whole cycle starts over. Could have been so much more here, so much potential for a richer, deeper story. 

This review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

Lee Tobin McClain read Gone With The Wind in the third grade and has been an incurable romantic ever since. When she not writing emotional Christian romances, she's probably driving around a carload of snarky teen girls, playing with her rescue dog and cat, or teaching aspiring writers in Seton Hill University's MFA program. She is probably not cleaning her house. You can find Lee online at http://www.leetobinmcclain.com and on Twitter @LeeTobinMcClain. Like her on Facebook or email her at LeeMcClain@comcast.net. She loves to hear from readers!

​About the Book:
Bear McKinley has tried to keep his past behind him and make something out of his life. After taking the fall for his brother’s crimes and serving time in jail, Bear has sought to make his life meaningful by serving others in a mission church in Brazil. However, after multiple vandalisms occur at the church, the mission board is wary of Bear fearing that he is responsible for the crimes considering his past. Dismayed, Bear is asked to leave the mission and heads to his old hometown after receiving an alarming letter from his sister-in-law. Discovering that his brother is missing and that danger is encroaching on his brother’s family, Bear agrees to temporarily safeguard his niece and nephew returning to the safe haven of small town Maple Valley. Meanwhile, Raegan comes face-to-face with her own “life purpose” crisis and is given a second chance at pursuing her dream of creating art when she is recruited to paint a special mural for the town’s upcoming art festival. Bear and Raegan soon cross paths picking up their friendship and assisting each other in their recent life developments- Bear with the children and Raegan with her art. As the two become closer, Raegan reveals to Bear that she has been having panic attacks for years, and Bear slowly begins opening up about his past and the upbringing that has plagued him. As the romantic tension swells, they finally admit their love for one another and venture into exploring their relationship. However, what they find is that their secrets and having to face their past fears may make creating a future together more difficult than they ever imagined.

My Thoughts:
Finally, readers longing for Bear and Raegan’s story will have their fill in All This Time! Bear and Raegan have appeared in each novel of Tagg’s Walker Family Series. Although in each encounter previously it’s been obvious that they have feelings for one another, their relationship has remained in the “potential” stage never gaining ground. When they finally cross that threshold and admit their feelings for one another, the longing each has been holding back comes out in a sweet intertwining of hearts. The support and encouragement they give one another which each of their crises is heartwarming- Bear with the past he is ashamed of and that is now endangering those he loves, and Raegan having to face the root of her panic attacks and how it has stalled her life. I have to admit that as Bear makes decisions on how to best handle the danger that has surfaced from his brother’s decisions, I was worried about the direction Bear and Raegan’s romance would take. Let’s just say that I was not disappointed in the least! My favorite in the Walker Family Series by far!

This review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

Award-winning author Melissa Tagg is a former reporter, current nonprofit grant writer and total Iowa girl. She writes romantic comedies in the banter-filled style of her favorite 1930s and 40s classic films. The second book in her popular Walker Family series, Like Never Before, was named to one of Publisher's Weekly's Spring 2016 Top 10 lists. When she's not writing she can be found hanging out with the coolest family ever, watching old movies, and daydreaming about her next book. Melissa loves connecting with readers at www.melissatagg.com and on Facebook and Instagram.

About the Book:
Riley and Paige have been best friends since their early teenage years. But when they were seventeen, Riley’s feelings shifted to something more unbeknownst to Paige. Keeping his feelings hidden, Riley had to watch Paige fall for his older brother. In turmoil over their relationship, Riley ran from his heartache by enlisting in the Marines. It only took time for Paige and Riley’s brother to break up, leading Riley to make the decision while still enlisted that he was going to win Paige’s heart and carve out a future together. That dream was shattered, however, when Riley finds himself returning home as an amputee after an IED explosion. He is also dismayed to learn that his family has arranged for him to stay with Paige while he recuperates. Excited to have Riley safe and at home, Paige is thrilled to care for her best friend even though he struggles with his recovery, and she senses her own feelings shifting into romantic territory with Riley. When the course of events lead to an intimate setting and the two share a kiss (actually more than one!), their true feelings for one another are exposed. After only a short time together, however, Riley continues to struggle with feeling like he is not enough for Paige and deserts her leaving her heartbroken. Only after spending time away from those he cares about most, Riley finally begins emotionally healing from the trauma he has experienced and realizes that he may have lost Paige for good.
 
My Thoughts:
Just a Kiss is a classic tragedy love story with the added twist of the two main characters being best friends. Hunter paints a realistic picture of the emotional devastation Riley is experiencing with the loss of his leg and his self-confidence. The transition from “best friends” to “best friends who fell in love” is sweet and memorable. I especially liked the way Dan’s character was used as an instrument in Riley’s healing. Realistic love story that shows true love will weather the dark times and come out stronger on the other side.
 
This review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.
 
Denise Hunter is the internationally published bestselling author of more than 20 books, including Dancing with Fireflies and The Convenient Groom. She has won The Holt Medallion Award, The Reader's Choice Award, The Foreword Book of the Year Award, and is a RITA finalist. When Denise isn't orchestrating love lives on the written page, she enjoys traveling with her family, drinking green tea, and playing drums. Denise makes her home in Indiana where she and her husband are raising three boys. You can learn more about Denise through her website DeniseHunterBooks.com or by visiting her FaceBook page atfacebook.com/authordenisehunter

About the Book:
In the Field of Grace is a retelling of the story of Ruth and Boaz from the Bible and chronicles their romance through the author’s imagination. Overlooked by her own family, Ruth finds love and acceptance when she marries Mahlon. After Mahlon and his brother dies, Ruth chooses to remain with her mother-in-law, Naomi, after Naomi chooses to return to her homeland. The two widows scratch out a living by Ruth’s daily trek to the fields to glean leftover barley and wheat for their sustenance. The owner of the fields, Boaz, notices Ruth’s beauty, grace, and dedication to his cousin, Naomi, almost immediately. Although he, too, is a widow, his recurring interactions with her ignite a long dormant flame in his heart. Ruth also begins falling in love with Boaz, but accepts that she would never capture his heart due to her lowly state. However, against all odds and at Naomi’s prodding, Ruth takes a bold step to claim her man’s heart not knowing if the end result will be rejection or the beginning of an abiding love.

My Thoughts:
This was my first true “Biblical novel” with the setting actually taking place during Biblical times. I read the Book of Ruth as my devotion at the time I was reading this book, and I very much appreciate Afshar closely following the Bible’s account of these two people’s lives as they intersect into one. Her explanation of some of the customs and traditions occurring during the story also helped me understand the culture at the time. I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about the fictional part of the story, but again, I was pleasantly surprised by Afshar’s interpretation of how Ruth and Boaz’s romance may have unfolded. We sometimes forget that people in the Bible were real humans with the same emotions, heartaches, joys, and struggles as us. I enjoyed the realness of Afshar’s writing. A very tender love story for the ages (literally!).

This review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

Tessa Afshar is an award-winning author of historical and biblical fiction. Her novel, Land of Silence was voted by Library Journal as one of five top Christian Fiction titles of 2016, and nominated for the 2016 RT Reviewer’s Choice Award for best Inspirational Romance. Harvest of Gold won the prestigious 2014 Christy Award in the Historical Romance category. Her book, Harvest of Rubies was a finalist for the 2013 ECPA Book Award in the fiction category. Her first novel, Pearl in the Sand, won her “New Author of the Year” by the Family Fiction sponsored Reader’s Choice Awards 2011. Tessa was born in Iran and lived there for the first fourteen years of her life. She moved to England where she survived boarding school for girls and fell in love with Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte, before moving to the United States permanently. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life forever. Tessa holds an MDiv from Yale University where she served as cochair of the Evangelical Fellowship at the Divinity School. She serves on the staff of one of the oldest churches in America. But that has not cured her from being addicted to chocolate. Contact Tessa at tessaafshar.com or on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessaAfshar/

About the Book:
Redeeming Love is the beautiful retelling of the Biblical account of the prophet Hosea and his prostitute wife, Gomer. Rivers chooses the mid-1800’s gold rush period as the setting for the novel which lends itself nicely to the events unfolding in the plot. After suffering unspeakable horrors as a child after being sold into prostitution at the tender age of 8, “Angel” is bitter, hollow, and sees her only worth as what pleasure she can give a man. When Michael Hosea first sees her, he immediately feels the Holy Spirit’s nudging that he is to make her his wife. Wanting to follow God’s leading but perplexed as to why God would choose this woman, Michael rescues Angel from the brothel where she works and marries her. As they try to carve out a new life, Angel is constantly defying Michael bucking his attempts at creating some semblance of a marriage. She only sees herself as a prostitute, not as a woman deserving love. Michael remains consistent showing her patient, enduring love as he tries to open her eyes to the value she has as a child of God and as his wife. After multiple attempts at leaving Michael- and his repeated rescue of her- Angel finally leaves for good after realizing she has fallen in love with him but feeling he is deserving of a better wife. Brokenhearted at her final abandonment, Michael is left to trust God for her healing, her love, and the hope that she will one day return.

My Thoughts:
Redeeming Love can be considered one of the classics in Christian fiction because of the richness and depth found between its pages. Rivers does a fine job unfolding not only the love story between Michael and Angel, but also the story of God’s love for us, how He continually pursues us with an unrelenting love, and how only He can make us whole and complete. The novel is disturbing to read in many places as Rivers delves into the dark world of prostitution, rape, and incest (although it is not descriptive). However, as Michael and Angel’s marriage evolves, she also presents the beauty and purity of sex the way God originally intended it- between a husband and wife. Facing our past, forgiveness, commitment in marriage, and recognizing the boundless extent of God’s love for us grace the pages of this novel making it a must read!

This review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

New York Times bestselling author Francine Rivers continues to win both industry acclaim and reader loyalty around the globe. Her numerous bestsellers include Redeeming Love, A Voice in the Wind, and Bridge to Haven, and her work has been translated into more than thirty different languages. She is a member of Romance Writers of America's coveted Hall of Fame as well as a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Visit Francine online at www.francinerivers.com and connect with her on Facebook (www.facebook.com/FrancineRivers) and Twitter (@FrancineRivers).

About the Book:
Fifteen years ago, Natalie O'Ryan left Prince Edward Island and never looked back leaving her painful childhood, whispers from town gossips, and Justin, her best friend, behind. But to her dismay, her fiance has "surprised" her by booking their upcoming nuptials in her hometown not knowing the embarrassing past that Natalie has kept secret. Hoping to skirt the town gossip mill and Justin, Natalie tries to lay low only to find her efforts in vain resulting in one of the local gossips sabotaging her plans for the reception venue. As Natalie scrambles for a replacement, her wedding planner suggests refurbishing the old barn on Justin's family's dairy farm. With no other options available, Natalie reluctantly agrees. As Russell, Natalie's fiance, must suddenly return home to attend to urgent business, Natalie is left to remodel the barn- and finish planning the wedding details- with Justin at Russell's urging. As they begin spending time together, Natalie and Justin address the circumstances regarding her abrupt departure fifteen years prior, and their friendship not only begins to mend, but deeper feelings that have been dormant since their teen years begin to surface. When Russell finally returns days before the wedding, Justin has come to realize he is in love with Natalie while she is faced with sorting through her feelings for Justin, the real reasons she agreed to marry Russell, and the past that has haunted and controlled her life for decades.

My Thoughts:
On Love's Gentle Shore was a good story. But, I had some reservations about giving it more than 3 1/2 stars. I felt certain details were just way too convenient, irrelevant or too predictable which took away from the story for me. I also did not like Natalie's character very much. She seemed rather spoiled, selfish and overdramatic, and quite frankly, in my opinion she was the one in the wrong for leaving in the first place. Sure, her impulsive decision could be blamed on being 17 at the time, but in 15 years she didn't mature enough to realize she basically abandoned her best friend in his greatest time of need? Decent story, I'm sure others will enjoy it, but I'm giving it 3 1/2 stars. I do, however, look forward to reading more books from this author.

This review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

Liz Johnson fell in love with Prince Edward Island the first time she set foot on it. When she's not plotting her next trip to the island, she works as director of marketing for a Christian radio network. She is the author of several novels including The Red Door Inn and Where Two Hearts Meet, a New York Times bestselling novella, and a handful of short stories. She makes her home in Tucson, Arizona.

​About the Book
From the first time they met, the attraction between Lucy Drake- a telegrapher for the American-owned AP news agency- and Sir Colin Beckwith- director of the British-owned Reuters news agency- was undeniable. Besides their professions and attraction, however, Lucy and Colin share an unusual connection- both are wrangling with long-standing family battles that have proven to consume their lives. Lucy and her brother have been fighting a 40-year legal battle with their extended family to regain part of their inheritance from a business deal gone bad pre-Civil War, and Colin is seeking to marry an American heiress who can subsidize his family’s centuries-old estate in England from ruin. Since Lucy is not wealthy and his situation is dire, Colin immediately dissuades any type of romance from forming between them. Interestingly, both also have secrets that the other discovers, and in an attempt to find a truce, they agree to help each other so that their secrets remain so. As a friendship forms, Colin becomes more deeply involved with the legal battle Lucy is pursuing and uses his influence to launch covert information-gathering visits with her extended family. Together, their efforts not only draw them closer strengthening the romantic tension building between them, but they also uncover a political scandal that is greater than either of them could have imagined. Danger escalates as they work with local officials to neutralize the threat. When the scandal is finally resolved, Lucy and Colin reluctantly return to their routine lives and part ways. It is only when both of them face the entrapments of their family legacies and understand the freedom of making their own choices that Lucy and Colin begin to forge a new future.
 
My Thoughts
A Dangerous Legacy was quite refreshing as Camden offers a twist on the familiar tale of forlorn love. Lucy’s battle with her family provides enough suspense and danger to not only draw the reader into the crime plot, but also amplifies the desperate and futile romantic hopes of a relationship forming between her and Colin. Lucy’s (and eventually Colin’s) realization that they do not have to be controlled by past circumstances provides a good reflection opportunity for the reader, as well. The sweet conclusion to their relationship will delight readers!
 
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. However, this review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book.  
 
Elizabeth Camden is the author of ten historical novels and two historical novellas and has been honored with both the RITA Award and the Christy Award. With a master's in history and a master's in library science, she is a research librarian by day and scribbles away on her next novel by night. She lives with her husband in Florida. Learn more at www.elizabethcamden.com.

About the Book:
The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck is a delicious little tale about love at first sight, reconciling our past with the beautiful future God has in store for us, and taming intense physical attraction within the confines of a Christ-honoring relationship. After her marriage dies a slow and painful death and she catches her husband cheating on her, Sarah Hollenbeck finds her voice as a trashy romance novelist catapulting her into both fame and fortune. But when she accepts Christ as her Savior, she chooses to reinvent herself as a Christian romance novelist as her newfound faith creates a strong desire to show women that love, passion, and desire can fit into God’s plan for love while still honoring Him. When sparks fly after a chance encounter with a dashing man at her church, Sarah is convinced she has found her soul mate. The only complication is that her dream guy just so happens to be her new pastor! As Ben and Sarah pursue the unexpected love growing between them, they face many challenges growing both personally and in their relationship with each other. Chief among the challenges are the awkward and very public nature of a pastor dating a reformed trashy romance novelist along with Ben and Sarah’s intense physical chemistry. When both of their pasts collide, a storm rages that tests their commitment to one another, their faith, and their futures.

My Thoughts:
First, let me address the “realness” of this book- THANK YOU Bethany Turner for tactfully addressing the very real struggle of sexual attraction within a Christian romantic relationship. Christians don’t hide in caves- we very much experience the same desires as anyone else. Turner has set the record straight that these intense desires are not only normal but were created by God and can be shared between a man and woman within the boundaries that He has set. She also makes very clear that God’s boundaries for sex are designed to be shared between a husband and wife. Ben and Sarah’s struggle- and triumph- of keeping their intense physical attraction for each other under control demonstrates that Christian couples don’t have to bend to pop culture’s version of romance, but can instead seek to glorify God while still expressing love physically in appropriate ways. In addition to the sizzling chemistry between these two, I also appreciated the maturity displayed in other ways in their relationship. Ben’s admission of his vulnerability and weakness during a tempting encounter showed the depth of trust he had with Sarah, and her response of “being his strength” in that moment showcased the spiritual maturity- and love for Ben- that Sarah was developing. Likewise, the multiple trials they experienced were handled with both realism and grace keeping their commitment to each other and to Jesus at the center of it all. This will be a book I take off my shelf to read again and again! Loved it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. However, this review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book.  

Bethany Turner is the director of administration for Rock Springs Church in Southwest Colorado. A former VP/operations manager of a commercial bank and a three-time cancer survivor (all before she turned 35), Bethany knows that when God has plans for your life, it doesn't matter what anyone else has to say. Because of that, she's chosen to follow his call to write. She lives with her husband and their two sons in Colorado, where she writes for a new generation of readers who crave fiction that tackles the thorny issues of life with humor and insight. To learn more, visit Bethany's website at http://seebethanywrite.com/.

About the Book:
Mourning the loss of her family who were killed on the mission field in India, Rebecca Ravenshaw returns to England to her ancestral home only to receive a great shock. A year prior, another woman showed up with her Indian servant claiming to be Rebecca, but later committed suicide. With very little physical evidence, Rebecca is forced to prove her identity by undergoing the scrutiny of the mission board and waiting for confirmation from sources in India who can validate her claims. Meanwhile, Captain Luke Whitfield, Rebecca's very distant cousin who inherited the estate after the impersonator's death, agrees to allow Rebecca to stay at Headbourne House until the matter is sufficiently resolved. She immediately finds him charming and companionable. As her feelings deepen for the handsome captain, she believes that his feelings have also shifted to a romantic interest, but she can't help but wonder if he truly loves her or simply wants to re-gain the estate through her. And always at the back of her mind is whether or not he had ill intentions toward the first "Rebecca" that led to her death.

My Thoughts:
I LOVE a good mystery. I LOVE a good romance. Mist of Midnight combines the two for an unforgettable story that was delightful! First, Byrd skillfully keeps the reader guessing about the true identity of the first "Rebecca", the circumstances surrounding her death, and the true nature of Luke's feelings for the real Rebecca. I wondered how in the world the impostor's identity could be challenged and wondered throughout the book "who is she?" The revelation created an "Ahhhh, now I see it!" moment. Second, the love story between Luke and Rebecca had me swinging between believing his Hussar reputation was befitting to swooning at the tender nature of his exchanges with her. I was quite satisfied with how their relationship played out. This book was well done as both a mystery/suspense thriller and a Gothic romance.

This review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

 Award-winning and bestselling author Sandra Byrd has published four dozen books in the fiction and nonfiction markets, including Mist of Midnight, Bride of a Distant Isle (A Romantic Times Book Reviews Top Pick), and her most recent, A Lady in Disguise. For nearly two decades, Sandra has shared her secrets with the many writers she edits, mentors, and coaches. She lives in the Seattle, Washington area. For more information, visit her website at http://www.sandrabyrd.com/​.

Strong characters, desperate circumstances, and a gentle romance pave the way for a western adventure readers are sure to love in Spencer's first offering of the Front Range Brides series! When Mae Ann Remington answers a mail order bride ad after her mother's death, her hopes are settled on the prospect of a home and a secure future. However, when her fiance is killed in a bank robbery before they can say " I do," she is left with no money, no home, no family, and no future. With nothing to lose- and a husband to gain- Mae Ann boldly proposes a "business arrangement" with the handsome hero at the bank, Cade Parker. After Cade agrees, the two set off straight to the preacher to tie the knot. Together, they try to make the best of an unexpected situation and eventually fall into a steady daily cadence running their ranch as "husband and wife". In time, however, both of their feelings develop into something deeper without each knowing how the other feels. As they fight for the land Mae Ann's intended groom left her and her stubborn ways put her in danger, Cade realizes he must share what's in his heart before he loses her.

Spencer offers a heartwarming romance laced with savvy wit and unforgettable characters.  Sensing their attraction from the beginning despite the unusual circumstances, Cade and Mae Ann's change of heart shifts subtley as during their day-to-day life together their attraction builds into affection and mutual respect which then blooms into love. I loved Spencer's choice of characters and the traits each possessed. Cade embodies the Western hero- he's brave, strong in both character and brute, and he will do anything to protect his woman. Mae Ann is not a fainting flower- she's strong, resilient and independent yet wholly feminine and soft offering the men of the house the gentle touches only a woman can provide that makes life a little more bearable and a house a home. And Deacon- oh, my I loved this old coot! Especially how he straightens up and seems totally smitten in Mae Ann's presence! An Improper Proposal deserves not just an INSPY in my opinion, but I can totally see it playing out as a Hallmark movie, too! Great read!

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I was offered a complimentary copy of this book from the author.

​Western romance author Davalynn Spencer is partial to telling the cowboy’s story as well as the heroine’s. An ECPA and Publisher's Weekly bestselling author and winner of the Will Rogers Gold Medallion for Inspirational Western Fiction, she writes heart-tugging, cowboy romance set along the Front Range of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. She is the wife and mother of professional rodeo bullfighters and an award-winning former rodeo journalist and crime-beat reporter. Davalynn makes her home in Colorado with Blue the Cowdog and mouse detectors Annie and Oakley and loves hearing from readers. Connect with her via her website at www.davalynnspencer.comwww.davalynnspencer.com.

Fall is just around the corner here in the mountains! I look forward to the changing colors of the leaves, cooler weather, warm sweaters, hot chocolate, the smell of wood burning in a fireplace, and cozying up with a good book! Here is a list of my top anticipated new releases for the fall 2017! What’s on your list? Consider adding some of these to your TBR pile! 
​
Justice Buried by Patricia Bradley
Crisis Shot by Janice Cantore
Deadly Proof by Rachel Dylan
The Esther Paradigm by Sarah Monzon
Cherished Mercy by Tracie Peterson
Blind Spot by Dani Pettrey
Imperfect Justice by Cara Putman
All This time by Melissa Tagg
The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck by Bethany Turner
The House on Foster Hill by Jaime Jo Wright
 

About the Book:
After surviving the Whitman Massacre as a child, Mercy Flanagan is all grown up with a strong faith and generous spirit. So when family friend, Eletta Browning, who is suffering from a difficult pregnancy asks for Mercy's help, she is more than willing to move to the Rogue River Valley and the Browning Mission to lend a hand. Adam Browning, one of the on-site preachers and brother to the founding missionary, is skeptical, however, that bringing a "city girl" to the mission will do nothing but cause problems. But, Mercy quickly befriends many of the Tututni Indians and shows she is not afraid of hard work and sacrifice. Adam and Mercy quickly fall in love, but Adam is reluctant to express his feelings because he fears Mercy will reject him once she learns the truth of his lineage. As tensions rise between white settlers and the natives, the Browning Mission is placed in the middle and Adam's brother, Isaac, is killed. After finally having to flee for their safety and Mercy's assurance that Adam's lineage does not trump her love, they are wed and begin their trek back to Oregon City with their niece, Faith, after Eletta dies from complications in her pregnancy. Not only is the journey long and arduous, but Mercy also worries that Faith will be rejected by her sister, Hope, who is Faith's biological mother.

My Thoughts:
Cherished Mercy  provided an intimate look into Mercy's search for purpose, finding true love, and the hope and healing that can be found in showing compassion. Her strength in protecting the Tututni women and children during the attack and the love and acceptance she showed Faith were truly remarkable. Although I wish more time had been spent in developing Adam and Mercy's budding relationship in the early phases, I enjoyed the growth they showed as the plot progressed. They displayed a very sweet and tender love for one that was solidified even more through the trials they persevered through together. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. However, this review reflects an honest view of my own thoughts and opinions regarding this book. 

Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than one hundred books. Tracie also teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research. She and her family live in Montana. Visit her website at http://traciepetersonbooks.com/. ​

Both Kate Walker and Colton Greene find their lives shifting in directions they not only did not anticipate, but didn’t want. Kate finds herself feeling hollow and unfulfilled when her career as a screenwriter stalls, and Colton despises feeling like his life is drifting with no purpose when an injury ends his career as an NFL superstar. Both find themselves in Maple Valley as Kate returns in alarm after a tornado hits her beloved hometown and Colton seeks solitude and direction in his best friend, Logan’s, small hometown. When their paths cross, sparks fly and soon their friendship begins to deepen into something more as they help each other heal. However, the strides they’ve made personally and in their fledgling romance take two steps back when a flashback of his parent’s ill-timed death and the resulting car wreck involving Colton and Kate create an invisible separation pushing them apart and clouding their futures in uncertainty.
 
As the first full-novel installment of Tagg’s Walker Family Series, From the Start establishes the hometown goodness found in Maple Valley introducing new characters and members of the Walker family. This novel lays out a “boy meets girl” plot where both characters struggle with their uncertain futures. Colton’s journey through detangling his raw emotions over his parent’s death and his subsequent stint in the foster care system is moving and is a beautiful display of how one person giving of themselves can turn a life around. I was, however, disappointed in Kate and Colton’s romance. It seemed to take forever to develop and was rather dull in its execution in my opinion. Nevertheless, I enjoyed catching glimpses of the new Walker family members and townspeople introduced in the novel and look forward to reading more!
 
This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I have not been compensated in any form by the publisher or author.
 
Award-winning author Melissa Tagg is a former reporter, current nonprofit grant writer and total Iowa girl. She writes romantic comedies in the banter-filled style of her favorite 1930s and 40s classic films. The second book in her popular Walker Family series, Like Never Before, was named to one of Publisher's Weekly's Spring 2016 Top 10 lists. When she's not writing she can be found hanging out with the coolest family ever, watching old movies, and daydreaming about her next book. Melissa loves connecting with readers at www.melissatagg.com and on Facebook and Instagram.

"Jack" Rogers has found her place and her passion in restoring vintage airplanes. However, her world is shaken when her abusive ex-fiance returns to stake his claim to her- his possession. After Lt. Michael Carrington finds himself stateside after losing an arm and a leg in a freak accident, he agrees to keep watch over his best friend and flying partner's sister who has just discovered trouble from her past has returned. As Michael and Jack begin spending time together, their friendship is grounded in trust and respect. But when Michael accepts that his feelings for Jack are pushing the boundaries of friendship and he desires something more, his struggle with feeling unworthy and undeserving causes him to take pause and step back even if it means breaking Jack's heart.

Michael's struggle over his feelings and desire to be with Jack versus his view of himself as being "less-than" because of his accident is heart-wrenching and tragic. My heart just broke for him as he grappled with his self-worth and need to find purpose and a plan for the adjustments life threw at him. He, in turn, unwittingly feeds Jack's insecurities as he tries to be one kind of hero not realizing he already is a hero to her. Touching story of acceptance and seeking God's face in the midst of darkness wrapped in a beautiful love story. In addition, I did not see the correlation of the secondary story of Alice during WWII in 1944 until the very end when Alice, Jack, and Michael's story intertwine for a satisfying conclusion to the story.

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

Sarah Monzon is a Navy chaplain's wife and a stay at home mom to the two cutest littles in the world. Playing pretend all day with them isn't enough, she spends the evenings after their heads hit the pillow to create her own imaginary characters. When she isn't in the world of make believe, she can be found in the pine forests of western Washington taking care of her family, fostering friendships, and enjoying all the adventures each day brings. Her debut novel, The Isaac Project, skyrocketed to Amazon bestseller status while her Sophomore book, Finders Keepers, won the 2017 SELAH award for contemporary romance. Connect with her at http://www.sarahmonzonwrites.com/.

​Kendig gives readers their money’s worth yet again in this heart pounding, high adrenaline, breath-stealing adventure with Tox Russell and Team Wraith! After enjoying some down time away from chasing terrorists and mysterious artifacts, Tox and the crew quickly get swept back up into the fray when Tox is hit by sniper fire. After discovering that the shooter is an old friend and fellow soldier, Alec King, Tox and the team discover Alec is tied to several gruesome murders that he claims as vengeance against the wrongs committed by his victims. While everyone else involved wants to see King stopped regardless of what it takes, Tox holds onto the hope that Alec can still be redeemed. When Alec finally begins targeting innocent people- including the woman Tox loves- in an effort to blackmail him into joining his twisted family of despots, he must dig deep within himself to overcome his greatest fears and insecurities even if it means relationships will be severed with those he cares about most.
 
I cannot say enough how much I enjoy Kendig’s writing and her ability to have me completely engrossed in the action and adventure dripping from each page of Team Wraith’s missions! Of special note in Crown of Souls is her maneuvering of the delicate topic of a soldier’s duty to kill with honor in the pursuit of justice versus murder. Kendig bravely addresses Tox's deep-rooted struggle with this dilemma drawing the reader into their own reflection of evil versus good and where the line is drawn between a soldier's duty and God's providence. I also appreciated the development in Tox and Haven's relationship. Fairy-tale romance it is not, but rather two imperfect people with an imperfect romance facing real challenges in their relationship that will either strengthen them or tear them apart. Was especially grateful- and surprised- to see Tox's vulnerabilities surface repeatedly in relation to their courtship.  

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher.

Ronie Kendig is an award-winning, bestselling author who grew up an Army brat. She's penned over a dozen novels, including The Quiet Professionals series and the A Breed Apart series. She and her hunky hero hubby have a fun, crazy life with their children and a retired military working dog in Northern Virginia.

During a time of war and uncertainty, Carnton Plantation serves as a source of hope- and healing- for those in Franklin, TN. After first losing her husband to battle and then her job in a factory, Aletta Prescott is fearful of the future. Desperately seeking a position with the Women’s Relief Society, Aletta is devastated to find out the job at Carnton Plantation has been filled. However, she eagerly accepts an alternate job at the sudden vacancy of the baker’s position. Captain Jake Winston has come to Carnton for a very different reason and not of his own accord. Injured from a shoulder and head wound that has incapacitated him as a Confederate sniper, Jake is ordered to assist with the Women’s Relief Society fundraiser while his body heals. During their time together at Carnton, Aletta and Jake come to grips with their current realities and discover a new path to love for the future.
 
Christmas at Carnton beautifully depicts the hope that can be found in tragedy as a community comes together to support one another and share in each other’s grief. The bond portrayed between the ladies of the Women’s Relief Society displayed unprecedented strength, grace, and dignity in their quiet support of one another. Although Jake’s attraction to Aletta was not startling, I was surprised that Aletta displayed interest in him so soon after her husband’s death. Nevertheless, their deepening friendship-turned-romance was a welcome plot line. I look forward to spending time with Carnton’s characters in future installments in this series!
 
This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
 
Tamera Alexander is a USA Today bestselling author and one of today's most popular writers in the historical fiction genre. She and her husband live in Nashville, Tennessee, not far from the Southern mansions that serve as the backdrop for six of her award-winning novels. For more about Tamera's books, visit www.TameraAlexander.com.
 

Although Charlie Lionheart receives resounding applause every night as the handsome and daring lion tamer in the traveling circus, his heart belongs to sweet little Holland- his infant niece. For you see, Charlie paid a dear personal price to protect precious Holland from being exploited as a sideshow attraction knowing full well his choice would leave him isolated and alone for the rest of his life. However, after Holland becomes ill and a local nurse, Ella Beckley, shows compassion and cares for the ailing infant, he tentatively invites her into his mysterious world under the big top and sees a possible thread of hope that he may be able to find love after all. As their worlds collide, past wounds surface, and the future seems insurmountable, Charlie and Ella wonder if love can conquer all or is simply a pipe dream out of their reach. 
​
Once in awhile a book will come along that is so rich, so deep that it makes you speechless. This is one of those books for me. I am not even certain that I could do this book justice in my review, but I will try to convey the immense value this book offers the reader. First, I have to address Charlie's absolute passion and purity of love for those he cares most deeply for- Holland, Ella, and his lion "brothers". Charlie loves without abandon and gives of himself so freely and unselfishly it's just breathtakingly beautiful. Next, I love the literary metaphor of Charlie's sacrifice paralleling Jesus's. When faced with Holland's future plight, Charlie willingly offered himself as a substitute even with the foreknowledge that he would be rejected, shunned and isolated for his choice just as Jesus willingly came and took our place so that we could be redeemed. There are so many beautiful moments threaded throughout this book that it will surely become a classic. At the least, it will be read over and over by this girl. I can definitely understand why it is an INSPY award winner. Bravo, Ms. Bischof!

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I have not been compensated in any way by the publisher or author. 

A Carol Award and three-time Christy Award-finalist, Joanne Bischof writes deeply layered fiction that tugs at the reader's heartstrings. She lives in the mountains of Southern California with her three children. To learn more, visit www.joannebischof.com.