Book Review: First Date by Melody Carlson

First Date by Melody Carlson
Publisher: Revell
Publish Date: October 15, 2013
Paperback, 224 pages
ISBN: 9780800721312
The Dating Games #1


My Review:
First date is the story of five girls, Emma, Cassidy, Abby, Bryn and Devon and their quest to go on a first date. I love Melody Carlson and wanted to read this book to see how she handled the friendship dynamic and also to see how the whole idea of girls that are Juniors going on their first date.

Overall I think this was a fun story. I really had to suspend disbelief though to think that 5 girls who were witty, smart and mostly attractive had never been on dates. Even worse was suspending disbelief that guys would listen to a teacher and decide not to date during their Junior and Senior years. Maybe things are different now and different at a Christian high school, but 20 years ago, I know we were all about dating in 11th and 12th grade.

So once you get past that let me move onto what worked for me in the story. The girls and their friendship worked. Why? Because Devon is the new girl but she's been friends with Emma forever. So when she starts at Northwood Academy she falls right into the role of Emma's best friend and becomes part of her group. But of course this causes problems. Cassidy had been Emma's best friend so now she's feeling left out. All of this is normal. Also when one or two do something in the group at least one of the others becomes paranoid and feels left out. Also normal. So I think Ms. Carlson really captured the girl group dynamic well in this novel.

Another thing I liked is when the girls decided to form their secret club and go after the boys, a couple of them needed makeovers. The nice thing is even though Devon was a little outspoken and could seem mean, she and the others could always mainly play up and fix small things about the girls. Just a little makeup that suited them or a wardrobe update. So it wasn't as much about looks as it was appearance. Here's one quote that I loved:

"Maybe I don't base my self-worth on my looks," Emma said. "I know I'm smart and I have a few talents. I'm a good artist. I'm not a beauty queen. I never will be. Besides that, it's not healthy to obsess over your appearance."

As far as characters go, Devon was a little brash and unlikeable in the beginning but as the book progresses she becomes more likeable. Cassidy seemed too goody-two-shoes, but by the end of the book she was one of my favorite characters. Emma and Abby are the sweet girls, and Bryn is the attractive one that offers competition for Devon. They all have their niche and I liked getting to know each one. I found ways to relate to each one as well. I was sometimes the loner like Cassidy, feeling a little left out. I was Emma thinking people should see me for what was inside not outside. I was Devon, looking for a good time and wanting to liven things up at times. I am Bryn now because she found ways to improve herself, by working out, updating her clothes but she's not completely obsessed with herself. And finally I was Abby because she respects her parents, has a tight-knit family and constantly wants to please them. So I think girls or adults reading this would find something relate-able in each girl. Not necessarily what I did, but there are many facets to the girls.

Concerning the plot, again suspending disbelief, it's mainly centered around the girls getting the boys interested in taking them to the homecoming dance. Along the way their are bumps. The girls learn lessons. Christianity is discussed but in a low-key kind of way. There are examples of the girls going to church and Devon's not going to church. There is talk of prayer and Cassidy consults with a youth group leader about dating. All of this worked for me. Melody Carlson is a Christian writer so all of this was expected.

What I didn't like. The whole not dating in high school thing. It was just hard to wrap my head around that. Also sometimes the secret club and the tactics the girls used just seemed a little middle school. But that was just me. These definitely weren't technical problems with the book, just things that bothered me personally. I still enjoyed reading the book.

All-in-all, First Date was a quick read and an interesting introduction to Ms. Carlson's new series. I will be reading the next book just to see what is up next for the girls because I really felt a connection to each one. The characters were interesting and while the plot was a little out there, it was fun.

I'll leave with one of my favorite profound statements in the book, it's a little long, but I love it:

This is when Cassidy talks to Julia, one of her church's youth leader about whether she should be dating or not since she made a personal pledge not to date in high school. Julia's answer is:

"I think you need to ask God those questions. For sure, if God tells you not to date, then you better listen and obey. But sometimes we run ahead of God and start making up rules for ourselves. Rules that aren't eally from God. It's almost like we think we can impress God, which is totally ridiculous. The next thing we know we're caught up in legalism - you now where you make a rule and think God is going to be pleased with you for keeping it. That's not how it works. That's how religion works. But God doesn't want us to be religious. He wants us to have a relationship with him. Not a bunch of rules."

My Rating: 4.0/5.0

*** Available October 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.  ***

About the Book:
Five high school friends have one thing in common as they start their sophomore year: none of them have ever been on a "real" date. With homecoming looming, they make a pact and start a secret club they call the DG (Dating Game). They're sworn to secrecy--and to purity--but the club is their way to set each other up on their first dates so they can report back to the DG. Of course, they all make different choices about how to deal with their parents and how to act on their dates, and they discover that they all have totally different experiences. Still, the things they learn about boys and dating will stick with them throughout high school. 

Bestselling author and teen favorite Melody Carlson starts off her newest series with a good dose of fun, tackling two topics teen girls love to read about--friends and boys.
 

***I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any other way except receiving the book for free.  ***

Book Review: That Certain Summer by Irene Hannon

That Certain Summer by Irene Hannon

Publisher: Revell

Publish Date: June 2013

Paperback, 304 pages
Fiction, Christian, Women's Fiction
 ISBN: 9780800722494

My Review:
While I love Irene Hannon's romantic suspense novels, when I heard she was releasing a women's fiction/general fiction/romantic element novel I had to read it.  Over the years Ms. Hannon has become one of my favorite go-to Christian authors so I will read anything she puts out.  While romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres, I enjoyed her departure (which is not really a departure, she just published mostly romantic suspense of late) to the general fiction genre.  As Ms. Hannon mentions in her afterword for That Certain Summer her focus has always been characters and the characters truly shine in That Certain Summer.

Character Development:
I loved getting to know Karen and Val sisters who have never been really close, but this summer they are thrown together as their Mom is recovering from a stroke and Karen can't do everything in her life and take care of her Mom too.  Val is a teacher so she's off for the summer and heads home to take care of her Mom and some other things on her mind.  Both characters have quite a bit of growth in very different ways and it's very enjoyable to read about.  In addition to Karen and Val who are the central characters, there is also David and Scott who have had difficulties of their own, again very different. One is returning home to Washington, Missouri and the other is trying to make a new start.  Ms. Hannon makes the intersection with the sisters seamless and believable.  It's truly a novel of trusting the Lord and knowing He will place what you need in your life when you need it, at least according to His timing.  Some people would call it coincidence but as both sisters learn it's simply Divine providence.  Two more minor characters are Kristen, Karen's daughter and Steve who's life has also been tragically altered.  While they are much more minor, they offer another realistic look into characters and add the addition of teenagers to the book, without bogging the story down.  I also love the pastor in this book!  He is like a few pastors I have had, very down-to-earth, loving and understanding with a slight injection of humor as well.

Plot:
While the focus of the book is on the characters the plot is very enjoyable as well.  Karen is battling with body image and living up to her sister.  Val has a secret that has burdened her for years.  Scott has been injured in an accident and trying to figure out what to do in life and how to get through his circumstances.  And David just wants a good life for him and his young daughter.  How the four intersect builds the novel plot and makes the book hard to put down.  Since you become so involved with the characters, you can't help turning page after page to find out what will happen next and whether each character will be able to work through their own problems. 

Christianity and That Certain Summer:
The Christian-element of the book is there throughout but not in a preachy way.   Honestly if more people had experiences with pastor's like the one in this book (and I have had several so he is realistic) then I think Christianity would not be put down as much.  The love of Jesus shines through several of the characters and then the others as they find it themselves.  Again not a preachy book, it dwells on the love of Jesus, not judging for past mistakes.  It also does not paint the picture that when you are Christian everything goes perfect which is great, because it is oh so true.  I think anyone could read this book, not just those who love Christian fiction.


Final Thoughts:
That Certain Summer is a perfect feel-good beach read.  Though no character has an easy go of it, you go into the book knowing things will work out. From the wonderful character development to the very enjoyable plot, I rank this as a wonderful start to my summer reading season. 

My Rating: 4.5/5.0

“Available June 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

About the Book:

With her trademark compelling characters and heartwarming hope, celebrated author Irene Hannon offers her readers an inspiring true-to-life tale of complex family relationships, transgressions revealed and forgiven and the complicated process of finding love.

Karen and Val are family - yet they're anything but close. Karen has carried the burden of responsibility for her aging mother ever since her sister left town years ago to pursue a career in theater. But Val had darker reasons for leaving town – and had a secret to keep – so coming home has never been an option . . . until their mother suffers a stroke.

Reunited in their hometown, Karen and Val must grapple with their past mistakes, their own relationship and their issues with a mother who is far from ideal. When a physical therapist raising his daughter alone and a handsome but hurting musician enter the picture, the summer takes on a whole new dimension. As their lives intersect and entwine, can each sister learn how to forgive, how to let go and how to move on? And strengthened by the healing power of faith, might they also find the courage to love?

About the Author (from Goodreads.com): 

Irene Hannon is the author of more than 35 novels, including the bestselling Heroes of Quantico and Guardians of Justice series. Her books have been honored with two coveted RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, a Carol Award, a HOLT Medallion, a Daphne du Maurier Award and two Reviewers' Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine. Booklist also included one of her novels in its "Top 10 Inspirational Fiction" list for 2011. She lives in Saint Louis, Missouri.

For more information about her and her books, Irene invites you to visit her website at www.irenehannon.com.

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***I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any other way except receiving the book for free.  ***

Book Review: Vanished by Irene Hannon

Vanished by Irene Hannon
Publisher: Revell
Publish Date: January 1, 2013
Paperback, 328 pages
ISBN: 9780800721237
Fiction, Romantic Suspense, Christian
Private Justice #1



My Review:
Irene Hannon continues to shine in my book. Vanished starts a new series and as soon as I finished I was already eager for the next story in the series.

The Private Justice series introduces us to three Private Investigators in the Phoenix Inc. firm. This is not your everyday PI firm, they are upscale and they are dedicated to finding justice for their clients. Which is just what Moira needs. She was on the road one dark, rainy night and knows she hit a woman, but there is no proof and the police think she just imagined it. But when she meets Cal at Phoenix and talks it through with him and they start investigating things start falling into place and show her hunch was right.

Right from the start Vanished is a great thrill ride. I like how you get the story from both sides once Moira has a good feel for who the mystery helper might be. It makes the story exciting to see what he is doing and what Moira and Cal are doing too and how it will all culminate together. I was on the edge of my seat through the whole book. And even knowing who the bad guy was, Ms. Hannon still managed to throw quite a few surprises my way.

Not only is Vanished a great suspense book, there is also great character development. Getting to know Moira and Cal was wonderful and watching them grow together was even better. I liked seeing their romance bloom and surprise them. Ms. Hannon is a master at weaving the romance into the story and really making it work.

I love Irene Hannon's romantic suspense and always know when I pick one up I will not be disappointed. Vanished has amazing suspense and a wonderful romance. It has two great main characters who I enjoyed getting to know and also two supporting characters who I can't wait to get to know in future books and who I hope will also get their happily ever afters. I also love Nikki, their receptionist/helper, and can't wait to see more of her as well. Vanished is a great book and if you enjoy romantic suspense and are looking for a book to jump start your new year (or any time of the year) this is just the book to do it. I read it in one day and had a hard time putting it down when the kids needed to eat. Yes it was that good. So go grab it and see what you think.

My rating: 5.0/5.0

Available January 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

About Vanished:
Reporter Moira Harrisons is lost. In the dark. In a thunderstorm. When a confusing detour places her on a rural, wooded road, she's startled by the sudden appearance of a lone figure caught in the beam of her headlights. Though Moira jams on her brakes, the car careens across the wet pavement--and the solid thump against the side of the vehicle tells her she hit the person before she crashes into a tree on the far side of the road. 

A dazed Moira is relieved when a man opens her door, tells her he saw everything, and promises to call 911. Then everything fades to black. When she comes to an hour later, she is alone. No man. No 911. No injured person lying on the side of the road. But she can't forget the look of terror she saw on the person's face in the instant before her headlights swung away. The person she hit had been in trouble. She's sure of it. But she can't get anyone to believe her story--except a handsome former police detective, now a private eye, who agrees to take on the case. 

From the very first page, readers will be hooked into this fast-paced story full of shocking secrets from fan-favorite Irene Hannon. "Vanished" is the exciting first book in the Private Justice series: Three justice seekers who got burned playing by the rules now have a second chance to make things right.


About the Author (from Goodreads.com):
Irene Hannon, who writes both romance and romantic suspense, is the author of more than 40 novels. Her books have been honored with two coveted RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America (the “Oscar” of romantic fiction), a National Readers' Choice Award, a HOLT Medallion, a Daphne du Maurier Award, a Retailers Choice Award and two Reviewers' Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine.

A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. In her spare time, she enjoys singing, long walks, cooking, gardening, traveling and spending time with family. She and her husband make their home in Missouri.

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***I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any other way except receiving the book for free.  ***

Book Review: The Christmas Pony by Melody Carlson

The Christmas Pony by Melody Carlson
Publisher: Revell
Publish Date: September 1, 2012
Hardcover, 169 pages
ISBN: 9780800719272 



My Review:
I have come to think of reading Ms. Carlson's Christmas books as a tradition and while I have to read them a little early for me in the season, they never fail to bring me good cheer and warm feelings when I read one of them. The Christmas Pony is no exception, in fact I think it's one of her best of the last three years that I have been reading.

The story focuses around a young girl who's family is making it for their small town after the great depression in 1937. All Lucy really wants for Christmas is the pony that is down the road that is for sale of trade, but she knows she probably won't get it. But that doesn't stop her for praying for it. Lucy lives with her Grandmother and widowed Mother and they take in boarders to make extra money so Lucy thinks it's magical when she happens to run into a beautiful woman and a well-dressed man in town that need a place to stay. And that's where the story and the magic start. Getting to know Lucy, George, Miriam and even annoying Veronica make the magic of this book. I adored George and his quiet wisdom and sweet ways with Lucy and Miriam.

Once you start reading this you won't want to put it down, and it's easy to read in an hour or so since it's under 200 pages. The magic of the Christmas season in the book will enthrall you and even though life isn't perfect for this little family you will learn to enjoy the little things right along with them. When I finished the book, I wanted to hug my little family, tell them I love them and carry the magic of The Christmas Pony with us right through Thanksgiving and into Advent and the Christmas season. Ms. Carlson captures the magic of the simple life, love and the spirit of giving so perfectly that you can't help closing this book with a smile on your face even if you are facing troubles in your life.

So I encourage you to grab this book, it's a quick read. It's uplifting, it's romantic, it's sweet. It's nice to see life through the eyes of a child and appreciate things that way. The Christmas Pony is a lovely book that I may just have to read again before Christmas.

My rating: 5.0/5.0

Available September 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

About the Book:
Eight-year-old Lucy Turnbull knew better than to wish for a pony that Christmas in 1937. Her mother had assured her in no uncertain terms that asking for a pony was the same as asking for the moon. Besides, the only extra mouths they needed at their boarding house were the paying kind. But when an interesting pair of strangers comes to town, Lucy starts to believe her Christmas wishes might just come true after all. 

The queen of the Christmas novel, Melody Carlson pens another magical tale of expectation and excitement as one little girl dreams big and the impossible becomes possible.

Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books with sales of more than five million. She is the author of several Christmas books from Revell, including the bestselling The Christmas Bus, The Christmas Dog, and Christmas at Harrington’s, which is being considered for a TV movie. She is also the author of many teen books, including Just Another Girl, Anything but Normal, Double Take, and the Diary of a Teenage Girl series. Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books in 2010 and 2011. She and her husband live in central Oregon. 

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***I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any other way except receiving the book for free.  ***

Book Review: Placebo by Steven James

Placebo: A Jevin Banks Novel by Steven James
Publisher: Revell
Publish Date: Nov. 1, 2012
Softcover, 416 pages
ISBN: 9780800719340
Suspense


My Review:

Placebo is a great introduction to a new series featuring Jevin Banks and his cohorts Charlene, Xavier and Fionna. It also offers something different from Stephen James other series and most other suspense novels I've read, Jevin is an escape artist and illusionist. It definitely makes things interesting and lends a new feel to the suspense genre which usually revolves around PIs, FBI agents, police officers and the like.

The first part of the novel moves a little slow, but with good reason. In this first part Mr. James is taking the time to introduce the reader to the characters and give the reader a good feel for the characters and the situation he is about to put them in. While I state it's slow, I don't mean it's boring, I just mean it's not the breakneck pace that will come later. I found it to be interesting from the beginning because I enjoy getting to know characters, getting inside their heads and understanding their motivations. The reader definitely gets this in Placebo.

As the book continues the pace begins to ramp up and gets to the point that the only reason I put the book down is because I fell asleep and the book fell on my face (true story, I take a sleeping pill, so don't think the book bored me). I picked the book right back up the following morning and didn't set it down until I finished it.

I enjoyed Placebo, I really enjoyed the characters the most. The plot was a little confusing at times, but it was exciting enough I could get past it. My only other complaint was it was a bit rushed at the end, probably victim to the development in the beginning which I wouldn't have wanted to lose. But all-in-all I found Placebo to be an enjoyable book. I like Jevin and his friends and can't wait to read the next book in this series. Characters make books for me and these characters and their jobs are different, fun and make the book exciting and leave me wanting more of them. Placebo is a very enjoyable suspense read, Steven James has done it again and has a dedicated reader for life with me.

My Rating: 4.0/5.0

Available November 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
About the Book:
While covertly investigating a controversial neurological research program, expose filmmaker Jevin Banks is drawn into a far-reaching conspiracy involving one of the world's largest pharmaceutical firms. After giving up his career as an escape artist and illusionist in the wake of his wife and sons' tragic death, Jevin is seeking not only answers about the questionable mind-to-mind communication program, but also answers to why his family suffered as they did. 

Rooted in ground-breaking science and inspired by actual research, "Placebo" explores the far reaches of science, consciousness, and faith. Readers will love this taut, intelligent, and emotionally gripping new thriller from master storyteller Steven James.

***I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any other way except receiving the book for free.  ***

Book Review: When a Heart Stops by Lynette Eason

When a Heart Stops by Lynette Eason

Publisher: Revell

Publish Date: October 1, 2012

Paperback, 340 pages 
Fiction, Romantic Suspense, Christian
 ISBN: 978-0800720070
Deadly Reunions #2

My Review:
Wow, I thought When the Smoke Clears was a pulse-pounding novel, When a Heart Stops definitely took it up a notch.  Case in point, I was able to read about half of this book coming home from a Boy Scout trip with two boy scouts and two other parents in the same SUV and no head phones.  Granted the boys were watching a movie and well-behaved, but lots was going on around me. When a Heart Stops held my attention fast so that the miles just went by quick and I could not wait to see how it would end. 

We've met Serena before in When the Smoke Clears (and I believe cameo in earlier books as well), she's the ME and friend of Alexia and Jillian the trio that make up this series of books.  But if you are just tuning in this book reads fine as a stand-alone.  I still would recommend reading When the Smoke Clears just because it's an excellent book and it does give background into what it going on in the over-arcing plot of the trilogy.  Back to Serena.  I really like her.  She's strong, independent and dealing with a lot at the start of this book, but I like how she just doesn't fall apart.  Ms. Eason makes her heroines strong, yet believable.  They come to rely on their men when they need to, but they don't "need" their men to survive.  It's a delicate balance and she manages to keep it.  And Dominic is amazing, a strong yet gentle man, but he'll do what it takes to protect Serena and those around her.  The characters are great.  I needed a little bit of a refresher when I started the book, and then it all started coming back to me, the various characters, bad guys and the plot. 

When a Heart Stops is a continuation of the first book which wrapped up in a way and didn't in a way.  The plot continues on with Serena, Dominic, Hunter and others on the hunt for a serial killer.  And what is someone after that Serena has?  All great plot devices to keep the reader interested and the plot moving.  The suspense along with the romance (the sparks do fly between these two) really work in this book.  I found myself turning page after page wondering what curveball Ms. Eason would throw at me next.  And they kept coming right up to the last page.

When a Heart Stops comes to a rather tidy conclusion for a book in a trilogy but there are of course unanswered questions and a cliffhanger left for the third and final book.  I an anxiously awaiting the third book to find out the answers to all the questions posed in the first two and more about the mysterious Jillian.  If you enjoy romantic suspense, then this trilogy is for you and the first and second books are both wonderful.  The momentum of the first book does not abate or stop in the second book, it keeps right on moving leaving you ready to tackle the third book as soon as Revell releases it!


My Rating: 5.0/5.0

Available October 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

About the Book:
Spunky and outgoing, nothing much bothers medical examiner Serena Hopkins--except for the thought of falling in love again. But when a serial killer is picking off her former classmates, Serena's life becomes intertwined with her old high school crush, FBI agent Dominic Allen. Is the secret she's keeping putting her next on the killer's hit list? Can she trust Dominic with the truth before it's too late? 

Intense, emotional, and fast-paced, "When a Heart Stops" will have readers up late as they race to the finish to find out what happens

About the Author (from Goodreads.com): 
Lynette Eason grew up in Greenville, SC. She graduated from the University of South Carolina, Columbia, and then obtained her masters in education from Converse College. Author of eight inspirational romantic suspense books, she is also a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Romance Writers of America (RWA). In 1996, Lynette married "the boy next door" and now she and her husband and their two children make their home in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

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FTC Information: I received this book from the Revell (the publisher) for an honest review. 

Book Review: Lethal Legacy by Irene Hannon

Lethal Legacy by Irene Hannon
Publisher: Revell
Pub Date: Aug. 1, 2012
Paperback, 352 pages
ISBN: 9780800734589

My rating: 5.0/5.0



My Review:
Irene Hannon has scored another winner in the Guardians of Justice series with Lethal Legacy. But don't let the fact that this book is number three in this series scare you away from reading it if you haven't read any of the other books. It makes a great stand-alone with mentions of characters and their happily ever afters from the previous books, but no real spoilers to keep you from going back and reading them. Lethal Legacy can easily stand on it's own, but it is a part of a great romantic suspense series so I suggest if you read this one, you go back and read the others as well!

As usual Ms. Hannon works wonders with her characters. I felt connections to Cole who I met in an earlier book but really got to know in this book and to Kelly who is mourning the loss of her father and dead set on finding who killed him. It is her doggedness that leads her to meet Cole and their meeting seems serendipitous. First Cole is a great investigator and if he can find something he will and second, he feels an instant attraction for Kelly and she feels one for him. Of course to be a romance a problem more than the suspense element has to work it's way in and in this novel it's the fact that Cole has moved away from God and Kelly is a devout and caring Christian. But I like that Kelly never shoves Cole to the side, she cares enough to want to understand and help him like a real Christian would. I have loved all of the romances in Ms. Hannnon's books, but I think this is one of the best. I felt the romance more in this one, felt it was more of an element even with the suspense playing a starring role.

And the suspense, wow, it's great again. We get a peek at the overall bad guy and eventually the hit man and it's surprising, but even with this knowledge, there are still many surpises in store with the book. I pretty much eagerly awaited the end of my workday on Tuesday and encouraged my husband to work late so I could finish this in one sitting. It's just that good.

The suspense is edge of your seat. The romance is just awe-inspiring. Both work so well together to make this one of Irene Hannon's best books to date and that is saying something. I think I have been reading all of her books since 2010 and have loved each one, but this one really resonated with me as a book I loved. If you enjoy romantic suspense this is an excellent choice for your next book to pick up. It has Christian elements, but they are not overwhelming, and they are very well-done. Ms. Hannon is a master at writing a book that doesn't personify the Christians as perfect people and I like that. So give Lethal Legacy a try, it's a great page-turner with a great side of romance to make it a perfect novel for the lover of romantic suspense!

Available August 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

About the Book:

The police say her father's death was suicide. But Kelly Warren says it was murder--and she has new evidence that she believes proves it. Detective Cole Taylor doesn't put much credence in her claim, and nothing in his case review suggests foul play. But when Kelly ends up in the emergency room with a suspicious life-threatening medical condition, the incident strikes him as more than just coincidence. Digging deeper, he discovers she's linked to a long-ago crime. Is history repeating itself? And who wants Kelly silenced? 

With her trademark high-intensity action and taut suspense, Irene Hannon closes out her Guardians of Justice series with a story of old grudges and budding romance that is sure to increase her substantial fan base.

About the Author:
Irene Hannon is the author of more than 35 novels, including the bestselling Heroes of Quantico and Guardians of Justice series. Her books have been honored with two coveted RITA awards from Romance Writers of America, a Carol Award, a HOLT Medallion, a Daphne du Maurier Award and two Reviewers' Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine. She lives in St. Louis, Missouri.

For more information about her and her books, visit her web site at www.irenehannon.com and follow her on Twitter at @IreneHannon.

***I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any other way except receiving the book for free.  ***

Book Review: The Discovery by Dan Walsh

The Discovery by Dan Walsh

Publisher: Revell Books

Publish Date: April 1, 2012

Paperback, 346 pages
Fiction, Historical, Romantic Elements
 ISBN: 978-0800719814

My Review: 

The Discovery captured me from the very first page.  First off you have a man who is celebrating the life of his grandfather.  He misses him, he's sad he has passed, but he's okay with it.  I also love that he's not money hungry and anxious about what he's getting and neither is his wife.  Yes they are excited (and they should be) once the will has been read but no one in the family is obsessed with the money part.  They all seemed to love the grandfather dearly.  So that endeared me to this first.  No arguing, bickering family members.  Yes there is Michael's sister who wants to know the family history, but there is really no arguing.

After the dust settles the real story starts, and the real story is not Michael's story, but a the book that Michael finds that Gerard wrote and never published.  I loved the book-in-a-book angle.  And of course you as the reader know it's Gerard's real story, but that doesn't take away from the beauty of the story or the wonder of finding out just what Gerard's story was.  Sharing this with Michael was amazing.  I was enthralled.  I must admit that I love reading about the World War II era so this was right up my alley.  It just seems like things were simpler then.  We had a national pride, we were behind the war and our soldiers.  I know things were tough and it was a harsh war, but I love stories set on our home soil during this time frame and this one was so different from what I was use to that it was completely refreshing.


While reading, this quote from the book really stood out to me and brought me to tears.  It's taken from a scene where Ben in Gerard's book is talking to a Catholic priest and he's trying to work through the secrets he carries, the priest responds with this quote which just struck me as very powerful at the time:

"Priests are just people. But the thing is, God see through it all. He sees our hearts as they are, That's why we don't have to play games with him, try to pretend we're doing okay when we're actually hurting inside. We can come in whatever condition we're in, knowing he loves us and knows exactly what we're thinking and feeling. I've been through something myself recently, where I've rediscovered just how true that is."

Wow, just wow.  And don't get scared off, the book is not preachy, in fact that's probably as preachy as it gets with this beautiful quote. 

The Discovery is sweet, there is action and adventure, there is romance, and there is a love that spans a lifetime and proves love can endure anything.  This book gave me hope, left me feeling happy and refreshed in the end and looking for my husband to tell him I love him.  Dan Walsh has done it for me again by writing another winner that I read from beginning to end in one sitting.  So come fall in love with Michael and his grandfather and make your own discovery while reading this book.

My Rating: 5.0/5.0

Available April 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

About the Book:
Gerard Warner was not only a literary giant whose suspense novels sold in the millions, he was also a man devoted to his family, especially his wife of nearly 60 years. When he dies he leaves his Charleston estate to his grandson, Michael, an aspiring writer himself. Michael settles in to write his own first novel and discovers an unpublished manuscript his grandfather had written, something he'd kept hidden from everyone but clearly intended Michael to find. Michael begins to read an exciting tale about Nazi spies and sabotage, but something about this story is different from all of Gerard Warner's other books. It's actually a love story. 

As Michael delves deeper into the story he discovers something that has the power to change not only his future but his past as well. Laced with suspense and intrigue, "The Discovery" is a richly woven novel that explores the incredible sacrifices that must be made to forge the love of a lifetime. Author Dan Walsh delivers yet another unique and heartfelt story that will stick with readers long after they turn the last page

About the Author (from Goodreads.com): 
Dan Walsh's debut novel, The Unfinished Gift, rec'd a 4.5 Stars/Top Pick rating from RT Book Reviews magazine and won 2 ACFW Carol Awards. Oasis Audio released an audio book version in 2010 and it's since been released in several different countries.

The sequel, The Homecoming, released in June 2010 and also received a 4.5 Star rating from RT Book Reviews. They likened his writing to NY Times bestselling author, Nicholas Sparks. Collen Coble, CBA bestselling author called it, "One of the most delightful and touching love stories I've ever read."

Dan's 3rd novel, The Deepest Waters, released in April to more rave reviews. His 4th novel, Remembering Christmas, releases in September. Like Dan's first book, it received a 4.5 Stars/Top Pick rating from RT Book Reviews.

Dan writes fulltime, lives in the Daytona Beach area with his wife, Cindi, where he's busy researching and writing his next novel. They've been married for 34 years and have 2 grown children and 2 grandchildren.

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FTC Information: I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.  I do make money from purchases made at The Book Depository, Alibris and B&N.com, but all money is used to fund giveaways and shipping for giveaways from the blog.

Book Review: When the Smoke Clears by Lynette Eason

When the Smoke Clears by Lynette Eason

Publisher: Revell

Publish Date: February 1, 2012

Paperback, 340 pages 
Fiction, Romantic Suspense, Christian
 ISBN: 978-0800720070
Deadly Reunions #1

My Review:
I will admit that I love Lynette Eason's books but When the Smoke Clears topped all of her others with the suspense and the romance.  This one I could not put down.  It kept me guessing and even when I kind of figured out the who, there were still things I didn't understand and made me keep reading the book until the very last page when I closed the book and just said "Wow".

Lynette Eason is by far one of my favorite Christian romantic suspense authors and When the Smoke Clears really takes her books up by another level as I stated before.  The characters are well-developed and interesting.  Alexia comes from a troubled past that is alluded to in the prologue and then it's slowly developed for the reader as Alexia remembers things in the present.  She is strong, but she learns when she needs to lean on someone in this book.  That someone is Hunter a lot of the time in this book, but it is also God as well, and I really like how Ms. Eason handles this part of the book.  Alexia is not a current Christian and doesn't really know how God could work in her life when it has been so messed up.  But through her friends they show her God's love.  It's really well done and not in-your-face.  I wish everyone had friends like Alexia does.  Hunter is a great character too.  The older brother, he's dealing with some issues of his own with his little brother who is drinking a little too much.  But he keeps moving and going with his job, his friends and his faith.  Hunter was so great with Alexia, the sparks just flew anytime they were around each other and I loved it.  He was sweet, a gentleman, and all man wrapped up in a nice package.

The plot moved along really fast.  As soon as Alexia arrives in town bad things start happening to her and it's honestly hard to put the book down for even a few minutes.  I was hooked and had to  know what would happen next.  The pacing was perfect.  A lot of great build up then the climax at the perfect time and then the book was done setting up for the next book.  This book was tied up, but there are some loose ends for the whole series.  I cannot wait for the next book and I hope I get to see some of Hunter and Alexia in that one and some of the other cast of characters I have gotten to know in When the Smoke Clears.

An amazing book from start to finish.  If you are a fan of romantic suspsense or just suspense, you should run out and get this one.  It's a edge of your seat thriller with a great romance as the side dish and it's hard to put down.  I loved it, can't say enough good things about it and can't wait for Deadly Reunions book #2 to come out.  I think I have graduated to huge Lynette Eason fangirl, and I may move to stalker :)


My Rating: 5.0/5.0

Available February 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

About the Book:
As a member of the North Cascades Smokejumpers, Alexia Allen always takes care of the equipment that keeps her safe. So when she nearly dies in a fire due to equipment failure, she knows something is up. Ordered to take time off while the investigation continues, Alexia makes a last-minute decision to recuperate at her mother’s home and attend her high school reunion. Yet trouble seems to be following her, and within hours of arriving home she’s involved with murder, arson—and a handsome detective. But the conflicts ahead are nothing compared to the ghosts of her past. As she strives to remember and forgive her family history, she must also decide if
the secret she’s been guarding for the last ten years must finally come to light.

Chock-full of the suspense and romantic tension readers have come to expect from Lynette Eason, When the Smoke Clears is the explosive first book in the Deadly reunions series.

About the Author (from Goodreads.com): 
Lynette Eason grew up in Greenville, SC. She graduated from the University of South Carolina, Columbia, and then obtained her masters in education from Converse College. Author of eight inspirational romantic suspense books, she is also a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Romance Writers of America (RWA). In 1996, Lynette married "the boy next door" and now she and her husband and their two children make their home in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

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FTC Information: I received this book from the Revell (the publisher) for an honest review.  I do make money from purchases made at The Book Depository and B&N.com, but all money is used to fund giveaways and shipping for giveaways from the blog.