The Dishonorable Miss Delancey

The Dishonorable Miss Delancey
Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace
Carolyn Miller
(Kregel)
ISBN: 978-0825444524
October 2017/296 pages/$14.99
Will a damaged reputation and desire for society's approval thwart the legacy of grace?

Tainted by scandal and forced to leave London for the quieter Brighton countryside, the Honorable Miss Clara DeLancey is a shadow of her former society self. She's lost the man she loved to another and, in a culture that has no patience for self-pity, is struggling with depression. A chance encounter brings her a healing friendship with the sisters of an injured naval captain. But Clara's society mama is appalled at the new company she's keeping.

Captain Benjamin Kemsley is not looking for a wife. But his gallant spirit won't let him ignore the penniless viscount's daughter--not when she so obviously needs assistance to keep moving forward from day to day. Can he protect his heart and still keep her safe?

When they're pushed into the highest echelons of society at the Prince Regent's Brighton Pavilion, this mismatched couple must decide if family honor is more important than their hopes. Can they right the wrongs of the past and find future happiness together--without finances, family support, or royal favor?

The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey is full of the captivating, flawed characters, fascinating historical details, and masterful writing that Carolyn Miller's fans have come to know in The Elusive Miss Ellison and The Captivating Lady Charlotte. If you love Lori Wick, Georgette Heyer, and other clean, wholesome Regency romance, you'll love this third book in the Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace series.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carolyn Miller lives in New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. A longtime lover of Regency romance, Carolyn’s novels have won a number of RWA and ACFW contests. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Australasian Christian Writers. Find out more about Carolyn at https://www.carolynmiller.org.

MY THOUGHTS

Carolyn Miller became one of my must-read authors with the release earlier this year of her debut novel, The Elusive Miss Ellison, and she has only endeared herself more with each book in this series. While each book stands alone, recurring characters result in a richer experience for those who read all of them. I was a bit skeptical that I would enjoy a story focused on Clara, who was the unequivocal Mean Girl in the last book, but Miller skillfully depicts her redemption while simultaneously allowing her to reap at least a portion of the harvest of the acerbic seeds she had sown, and my heart rooted for Clara to find her happily-ever-after. Carefully researched and authentic in both setting and characters, this engaging tale depicts the glamour and romance that make the Regency period so appealing as well as the societal mores and superficial relationships of the ton, generating a plethora of emotions as I read. Add this thoroughly satisfying book and series to your reading list!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Kregel Publications for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”



REGENCY BRIDES: A LEGACY OF GRACE - CLICK THE COVERS FOR MY REVIEWS

A Dangerous Legacy

A Dangerous Legacy
An Empire State Novel
Elizabeth Camden
(Bethany House Publishers)
ISBN: 978-0764218811
October 2017/352 pages/$15.99

Telegraph operator Lucy Drake is a master of Morse code and has made herself a valuable asset to the Associated Press news agency. But the sudden arrival of Sir Colin Beckwith at rival British news agency Reuters puts her hard-earned livelihood at risk. Colin is talented, handsome, insufferably charming--and keeping a secret that jeopardizes his reputation.

Despite their rivalry, Lucy can't deny that Colin has the connections she needs to give her family an edge in the long legal battle they've been waging over their rightful inheritance. But when she negotiates an unlikely alliance with him, the web of treachery they dive into proves to be far more dangerous than they ever could have known.


Read an excerpt.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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.

MY THOUGHTS

The intriguing title and my experience with Elizabeth Camden's previous novels promised an enjoyable read, and I was not disappointed. Camden once again drew me in with engaging characters and a compelling story set in the early twentieth century. What's not to love about a loyal brother and sister determined to break the power wielded by their uncle in a multi-generation family feud, not to mention the danger-at least to the heart-posed by the British newsman who is simultaneously maddening and helpful? The horrific plight of those trapped in the tenements of New York City touched my heart. Suspense and romance collide in this engrossing tale which is a perfect choice for a cozy fall evening.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Bethany House Publishing. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

When Did Everybody Get So Old?

When Did Everybody Get So Old?
Indignities, Compromises, and the Unexpected
Grace of Midlife
Jennifer Grant
(Herald Press)
ISBN: 978-1513801315
May 2017/
From writer and veteran columnist Jennifer Grant comes an unflinching and spirited look at the transitions of midlife. When Did Everybody Else Get So Old? plumbs the physical, spiritual, and emotional changes unique to the middle years: from the emptying nest to the sagging effects of aging. Grant acknowledges the complexities and loss inherent in midlife and tells stories of sustaining disappointment, taking hard blows to the ego, undergoing a crisis of faith, and grieving the deaths not only of illusions but of loved ones. Yet she illuminates the confidence and grace that this season of life can also bring. Magnetic, good-humored, and full of hope in the sustaining power of the Spirit, this is a must-read for anyone facing the flux and flow of middle age.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jennifer Grant is a writer, editor, and speaker. A former health and family columnist for the Chicago Tribune, she is the author of four previous books, including the adoption memoir Love You More. She lives in the Chicago area with her husband, four children, and two rescue dogs. Find her online at jennifergrant.com or on Twitter @jennifercgrant.

MY THOUGHTS

Jennifer Grant takes a pragmatic and relatable look at the midlife years that will appeal to many in their forties and fifties, especially women. Down to earth and honest in her assessment of the challenges, foibles, and heartaches that accompany the years of emptying nests, body changes, and relational ups and downs, she discovers blessings, grace, and hope as well. I enjoyed much about this book although I can't wholeheartedly recommend it due to some theological differences regarding one chapter. Overall, it is an enjoyable read with a good perspective.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Herald Press and Handlebar Marketing. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Christmas at Carnton Introduces a New Series!

Christmas at Carnton
A Novella
Tamera Alexander
(Thomas Nelson)
ISBN: 978-0310293248
October 2017/256 pages/$12.99

A Christmas novella to launch a brand new three-book series . . . The Carnton Novels

Amid war and the fading dream of the Confederacy, a wounded soldier and a destitute widow discover the true meaning of Christmas – and of sacrificial love.

Recently widowed, Aletta Prescott struggles to hold life together for herself and her six-year old son. With the bank threatening to evict, she discovers an advertisement for the Women’s Relief Society auction and applies for a position – only to discover it’s been filled. Then a chance meeting with a wounded soldier offers another opportunity – and friendship. But can Aletta trust this man?

Captain Jake Winston, a revered Confederate sharpshooter, suffered a head wound at the Battle of Chickamauga. When doctors deliver their diagnosis, Jake fears losing not only his greatest skill but his very identity. As he heals, Jake is ordered to assist with a local Women’s Relief Society auction. He respectfully objects. Kowtowing to a bunch of “crinolines” isn’t his idea of soldiering. But orders are orders, and he soon discovers this group of ladies – one, in particular – is far more than he bargained for.

Set against the backdrop and history of the Carnton Plantation in Franklin, Tennessee, Christmas at Carnton is a story of hope renewed and faith restored at Christmas.


Read an excerpt.


ABOUT THTE AUTHOR

Tamera Alexander is the best-selling author of numerous books including A Lasting Impression and The Inheritance. Her richly-drawn characters and thought-provoking plots have earned her devoted readers worldwide. Tamera is a two-time Christy Award winner, two-time RITA winner, and a recipient of the prestigious Library Journal Award. Tamera and her husband recently returned to her Southern roots and now make their home in Nashville. Visit her website at www.tameraalexander.com Facebook: tamera.alexander Twitter: @tameraalexander

Tamera’s series novels are “standalones,” meaning the stories may be loosely connected by continuing characters, but each novel is a complete story in itself.


MY THOUGHTS

Few things delight my reader heart more than a novel by Tamera Alexander. And the fact that it's a Christmas novella to introduce her brand-new series makes it that much more enjoyable! In her trademark style, Tamera Alexander pens a story of love and loss in the setting of the War Between the States. Skillfully blending historic figures with masterfully created fictional characters, Alexander brings to life the heartaches and trials-and rare moments of joy-of this tumultuous era. A compelling story, magnificent prose, and a quiet but steadfast measure of faith make this more than just a feel-good holiday read but one with depth that will encourage your faith and remind you of the Hope this blessed season brings. Don't miss this charming short novel!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Tamera Alexander and Harper Collins/Thomas Nelson. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Blind Spot

Blind Spot
Chesapeake Valor, Book 3
Dani Pettrey
(Bethany House)
ISBN: 978-0764212963
October 2017/336 pages/$15.99
The Wrath is Coming. But They Don't Know Where--Or When.

"The wrath is coming" were the final words that FBI agent Declan Grey heard the suicide bomber say. Now Declan is in the chase of his life--but isn't sure exactly what he's chasing after or when the threat will be unleashed on American soil. When his investigation's best clue leads him to a closed immigrant community, he turns to Tanner Shaw for assistance. She's sought justice for refugees and the displaced around the world, and if there's anyone who can help him, it's Tanner.

Tanner Shaw has joined the FBI as a crisis counselor . . . meaning she now has more opportunity to butt heads with Declan. As they work together to uncover the mounting threat, the tension between them also includes a spark she can't deny--and she's pretty sure Declan feels the same. But before anything more can develop, they find themselves in a race against time to stop the coming "wrath" that could cost thousands their lives.


Read an excerpt.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Praised by New York Times bestselling author Dee Henderson as "a name to look for in romantic suspense," Dani Pettrey's novels have sold more than 300,000 copies. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance novel. Her novels stand out for their "wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters" (Publishers Weekly), "gripping storyline[s]," (RT Book Reviews), and "sizzling undercurrent of romance" (USA Today).

MY THOUGHTS

I am loving this series, and Dani Pettrey continues to raise -- and meet -- her own bar in this third novel. Blind Spot gripped me from the opening pages and wouldn't let go with its unrelenting danger and suspense and its cast of authentic personalities. Fast-paced action and dialogue keep the pages flying and make this one hard to set aside at the end of a chapter. Declan, Tanner, and their cohorts are tops in their respective fields yet Pettrey also depicts them realistically dealing with the challenges of life and jobs in the context of their faith, whether strong or struggling, which makes them even more likable. A satisfying resolution ties up the story while a thread leaves readers eager for book 4. Blind Spot is a great addition to your fall TBR pile. Grab your copy today!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Dani Pettrey and Baker/Bethany House for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”



CHESAPEAKE VALOR - Click on the covers for my reviews!




Q&A WITH DANI PETTREY

1. Can you share a little about yourself?

My husband Mike and I have been married twenty-five years. We have two beautiful daughters, two adorable grandsons, an awesome son-in-law, and a one-hundred-and-twenty pound Newfoundland puppy that looks more like a bear than a dog, but has the sweetest temperament ever. I’ve been writing for fourteen years, published for seven, and my tenth book will release in July 2018. I love hiking, kayaking, traveling, and the beach, and I am always in search of the world’s best iced mocha. I love connecting with readers, so please drop by danipettrey.com and say hi!

2. Can you tell us a little about Blind Spot?

Blind Spot features federal agent Declan Grey and crisis counselor Tanner Shaw as they face one of the greatest terrorist threats to America since 9/11.

3. What do you love most about Declan and Tanner?

I love their passion for fighting injustice, their desire to help those hurting and in need, and their deep-rooted faith in God. They are people of character trying to make a difference in a world where they face fierce opposition, and it’s only through the Lord that they are able to overcome and prevail.

4. What’s the theme of Blind Spot?

I don’t set out to write a story with a particular theme in mind. Rather, I sit down and write the story the Lord lays on my heart, and then I look back and discover the common theme running throughout the characters’ journeys. Hope is the theme of Blind Spot. Hope in friendships, family, loved ones, and, most important, hope in Christ and all that we have in and through Him and His constant presence and love.

5. Your heroine, Tanner Shaw, works to combat human trafficking and continues to help victims make new lives for themselves in the aftermath. How does she handle such darkness and evil in the world?

Tanner’s hope and faith in God, and in His calling on her life, equips her to break the atrocious chains of bondage for victims of human and sex trafficking. Her faith sustains her through the darkness, and the battle is worth every scary situation she encounters, even if just to help set one woman free.

6. What are you working on now? What can readers look forward to next from you?

I’m currently working on two projects. I’m in the revision process for book four of the Cheaspeake Valor series, Dead Drift, which will release in July 2018. I’m also extremely excited to be partnering again with Dee Henderson and Lynette Eason on a novella collection. When those projects are complete, I will dive into my new series, Coastal Guardians, which features Coast Guard Investigative Service special agents and is set in coastal North Carolina. I’m thrilled to be able to bring new characters and new settings to my readers in the coming years.


Many thanks to Bethany House Pulishers and Dani Pettrey for providing this fun chat!

Christmas Captive

Christmas Captive
Men of Valor
Liz Johnson
(Love Inspired Suspense)
ISBN: 978-0373457373
October 2017/224 pages/$5.99
SABOTAGE AT SEA

On his cousin's Christmas cruise wedding, navy SEAL Jordan Somerton anticipated having the typical best man duties—not facing down criminals boarding the ship. But when the luxury liner is infiltrated by men determined to kidnap the flower girl, he's plunged into an unexpected mission. Maid of honor and DEA agent Amy Delgado hasn't forgiven Jordan for a misunderstanding in their pasts. But with her young niece targeted, she must draw on Jordan's skills as a protector. Signs point to an inside job. With a traitor in their midst, can they ensure that every passenger returns home safely for the holidays…even as they find love amid deepening danger?


Read an excerpt.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Liz Johnson is the director of marketing for a Christian radio network. She finds time to write late at night and is a two-time ACFW Carol Award finalist. Liz makes her home in Tucson, AZ, where she enjoys going to the theater and spending time with her nieces and nephews. She's happiest writing stories of true love with happy endings and shares about her adventures in writing at www.LizJohnsonBooks.com.

MY THOUGHTS

One of my favorite things about October is the release of Christmas novels, and when the book is also a suspense by Liz Johnson, that just doubles the pleasure! This is another fabulous addition to her Men of Valor series. This small tome teems with danger and escalating suspense, and the fact that a child's life is at stake only increases the tension. The cruise ship provides a unique setting but the delineated boundaries do not ensure instant success. Well-paced and filled with intriguing characters, Christmas Captive will keep you reading late into the night. Grab your copy today!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Liz Johnson and Love Inspired Suspense. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

ACFW New Releases - October 2017

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Contemporary Romance:

The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck by Bethany Turner -- Becoming a Christian is the best and worst thing that has ever happened to Sarah Hollenbeck. Best because, well, that's obvious. Worst because, up to this point, she's made her very comfortable living as a well-known, bestselling author of steamy romance novels that would leave the members of her new church blushing. Now Sarah is trying to reconcile her past with the future she's chosen. She's still under contract with her publisher and on the hook with her enormous fan base for the kind of book she's not sure she can write anymore. She's beginning to think that the church might frown on her tithing on royalties from a "scandalous" book. And the fact that she's falling in love with her pastor doesn't make things any easier. (Contemporary Romance from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

A Waltz for Amber by Kimberly Rose Johnson -- Amber, a struggling dance teacher, is desperate to make a success of her studio. The quickly approaching Christmas recital should help except for one problem—the high school music teacher scheduled the holiday program on the same night, causing a conflict for her students. Will she be able to sustain her business or will she lose everything in the pursuit of her dream? Chris is thrilled to be back in his hometown. However, his past won’t stay in the past, and the pretty dance instructor is a constant reminder of his failings. He wants to make up for his youthful mistake directed at her, but how? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Secret Christmas Twins by Lee Tobin McClain -- Christmas came early for Erica Lindholm! Suddenly a mom to adorable twin baby boys and part owner of a snowy small-town Pennsylvania farm, Erica is living her dream. Until the boys' estranged uncle, Jason Stephanidis, comes home to celebrate the holidays. The handsome, brooding detective turns out to be a natural with the babies...and with Erica's wounded heart. But if Jason knew the truth about their identities, her picture-perfect life could melt away. Will Erica's secret cost her everything? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Fall Into Romance by Melanie D. Snitker Surround yourself in the romance of the autumn season with 10 heartwarming, sweet novellas from USA Today, national bestselling, and award-winning authors. Each story takes you inside the heart of a small town—its people—and features adorable animal friends in need of a forever home.
Take a trip to Romance, Oregon, where falling in love has never been easier and happily-ever-after is guaranteed! (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

A Texas Holiday Reunion by Shannon Taylor Vannatter -- With her foreman out of commission, Resa McCall needs horse trainer Colson Kincaid to run her family ranch through the holidays. But having the handsome single dad back in Bandera, Texas, is unsettling. Colson broke Resa's heart years ago, and she can't risk getting close again. Still, working with him and bonding with his sweet little girl is making the ranch feel merry and bright. Being at Resa's side stirs up emotions Colson thought were long gone. But he has a powerful secret that could keep them apart forever. Can Colson give Resa the one Christmas present that might finally bring them back together—the truth? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

The Gift of Christmas Past by Cindy Woodsmall and Erin Woodsmall -- Arson wasn't the only fire that ignited between them. Promises shattered. Lies spoken. She was arrested. He returned to the safety of his wealthy parents.
Almost ten years later, Hadley and Monroe are both specialists in the field of speech therapy. They meet again . . . thrown together to help a four-year-old-girl rendered mute after being rescued from a fire. Years of secrets and anger beg to be set free as Hadley and Monroe try to push aside past hurts and find common ground in order to help the traumatized child and her family. Can the love of Christmas past drift into the present, bringing healing and hope for all? (Contemporary Romance from Woodsmall Press)

General Contemporary (includes Women's Fiction):

Piper's Passion by Lee Carver -- Piper Jordan, an American reared in Brazil, had her pilot’s license before she could drive and her aviation maintenance certificate before her business degree. Pulled between two countries, two career paths, and separated parents, she strives to determine what is significant and what to do with her life.
Kyle Chamberlain, pilot with Outreach for Christ, wears a wedding ring that says he’s not ready to date again after Rosanna’s death. Wielding a wrench with the cutest pilot/mechanic he’s ever seen turns his head. But would a dynamic woman with her talents and eventual inheritance accept his missionary life in the Amazon? (Contemporary Women's Fiction, Independently Published)

Grace in Strange Disguise by Christine Dillon -- Physiotherapist Esther Macdonald is living the Australian dream, and it doesn’t surprise her. After all, her father has always said, “Follow Jesus and be blessed.” But at twenty-eight, her world shatters. Everyone assures her God will come through for her, but what happens when he doesn’t? Has she offended God? Is her faith too small? So many conflicting explanations. Will finding the truth cost her the people closest to her heart? (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Historical:

Lady Jayne Disappears by Joanna Davidson Politano -- When Aurelie Harcourt's father dies in debtor's prison, he leaves her just two things: his wealthy family, whom she has never met, and his famous pen name, Nathaniel Droll. Her new family greets her with apathy and even resentment. Only the quiet houseguest, Silas Rotherham, welcomes her company. When Aurelie decides to complete her father's unfinished serial novel, writing the family into the story as unflattering characters, she must keep her identity as Nathaniel Droll hidden while searching for the truth about her mother's disappearance--and perhaps even her father's death. (Historical from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

The Other Side of Freedom by Cynthia T Toney -- In 1925, a thirteen-year-old boy witnesses a crime—the murder of a family friend—and must choose whether to remain silent as his father asks or defy mobsters and corrupt police to save his family. (Historical from Write Integrity Press)

Historical Romance:

Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander -- In the midst of war and the fading dream of the Confederacy, a wounded soldier and a destitute widow discover the true meaning of Christmas, the cost of love . . . and of loving again. (Historical Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing)

The Captive Brides Collection by Jennifer AlLee, Angela Breidenbach, Susan Page Davis, Darlene Franklin, Patty Smith Hall, Cynthia Hickey, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Lucy Thompson, and Gina Welborn -- Journey along as nine historical women are about to make their escape from some of life’s greatest challenges. Can their captive hearts be freed to dream, to dare, to love? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

A Mountain Christmas Romance by Misty M. Beller -- Stripped of the family so important to his Viking heritage, Matthias Bjork is now on the hunt for his sister. Despite combing the entire Wyoming Territory, he hasn’t found any substantial leads regarding his sister’s whereabouts, but he has discovered a most unusual woman.
Opal Boyd has finally found the haven she’s longed for all her life, in a most unlikely place—working for a German couple in this remote Wyoming mountain town. She learned long ago that most men couldn’t be trusted, but when a mountain man stops in the boarding house where she works, he seems to have the respect and affection of the two people she’s learned to trust implicitly.
But when Matthias’ search for his sister takes an unexpected twist, Opal is forced to make a choice that will alter the course of her life—no matter which answer she chooses. When Matthias’ decisions land Opal in danger, what must he sacrifice to rescue her? (Historical Romance, ACFW Qualified Independently Published)

Fool’s Notion by Lisa J. Flickinger -- Feisty Alda Lealand braves fifteen hundred miles with a pack string of mules—and the help of an unexpected cowboy--to save the family farm. (Historical Romance from Forget Me Not Romances [Winged Publications])

Playing by Heart by Carmela A. Martino -- Emilia Salvini dreams of marrying a man who loves music as she does. But in 18th-century Milan, being the “second sister” means she’ll likely be sent to a convent instead. Ironically, Emilia’s pious older sister, Maria, would gladly become a nun. But Father won’t allow it—her brilliant language skills are too important to his quest for noble status. Emilia’s only hope is to prove her musical talents are as indispensable as her sister’s skills. First, though, Emilia must win over her music tutor, who disdains her simply for being a girl. Before she can carry out her plan, though, Emilia's mother dies in childbirth. In her sorrow, Emilia composes a heartrending sonata that causes the maestro to finally recognize her talent. He begins teaching her music theory alongside handsome violinist Antonio Bellini, the great-nephew of a wealthy marquis. The two begin as rivals, but Emilia gradually falls in love with him. (Historical Romance from Vinspire Publishing)

Historical Western:

Too Far Down by Mary Connealy -- A citified mine operator and a tough western cowgirl are the most unlikely couple of all as they team up to fight the outlaws that want the Cimarron Ranch. (Historical Western from Bethany House [Baker])

Romantic Suspense:

Dangerous Ground by Gayla K. Hiss -- Deputy Marshal Kate Phillips comes to the Great Smoky Mountains in search of answers concerning her uncle’s suspicious death, and finds herself in the middle of an ancient family feud and a land dispute with handsome first responder, David Jennings. (Romantic Suspense from Mountain Brook Ink)

Christmas Captive by Liz Johnson -- On his cousin's Christmas cruise wedding, navy SEAL Jordan Somerton anticipated having the typical best man duties—not facing down criminals boarding the ship. But when the luxury liner is infiltrated by men determined to kidnap the flower girl, he's plunged into an unexpected mission. Maid of honor and DEA agent Amy Delgado hasn't forgiven Jordan for a misunderstanding in their pasts. But with her young niece targeted, she must draw on Jordan's skills as a protector. Signs point to an inside job. With a traitor in their midst, can they ensure that every passenger returns home safely for the holidays…even as they find love amid deepening danger? (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Speculative:

Transfusion by Victoria Buck -- The world's first transhuman must save the world, or save the woman he loves. (Speculative from Harbourlight Books [Pelican])

Suspense:

Kill Zone by Rick Acker, Christy Barritt, Patricia Bradley, Braxton DeGarmo, Luana Ehrlich, Heather Day Gilbert, Heather I. James, Robert Liparulo, Jordyn Redwood, and Jan Thompson -- Espionage, hacking, police procedural, international crime and intrigue, covert action, spy, secret police, revenge, snipers...and so much more! Ten brand-new, never-before published novellas of suspense, intrigue, and thrills from ten bestselling Christian thriller authors, all packed into this one anthology. (Suspense from Georgia Press LLC)

Bringing Maggie Home

Bringing Maggie Home
Kim Vogel Sawyer
(WaterBrook)
ISBN: 978-0735290037
September 2017/352 pages/$14.99

Decades of loss, an unsolved mystery, and a rift spanning three generations

Hazel DeFord is a woman haunted by her past. While berry picking in a blackberry thicket in 1943, ten-year old Hazel momentarily turns her back on her three-year old sister Maggie and the young girl disappears.

Almost seventy years later, the mystery remains unsolved and the secret guilt Hazel carries has alienated her from her daughter Diane, who can’t understand her mother’s overprotectiveness and near paranoia. While Diane resents her mother’s inexplicable eccentricities, her daughter Meghan—a cold case agent—cherishes her grandmother’s lavish attention and affection.

When a traffic accident forces Meghan to take a six-week leave-of-absence to recover, all three generations of DeFord women find themselves unexpectedly under the same roof. Meghan knows she will have to act as a mediator between the two headstrong and contentious women. But when they uncover Hazel’s painful secret, will Meghan also be able to use her investigative prowess to solve the family mystery and help both women recover all that’s been lost?


Read the first chapter.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kim Vogel Sawyer is a highly acclaimed, best-selling author with more than one million books in print, in several different languages. Her titles have earned numerous accolades including the ACFW Carol Award, the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Kim lives in central Kansas with her retired military husband Don, where she continues to write gentle stories of hope and redemption. She enjoys spending time with her three daughters and grandchildren. Find out more about Kim at www.kimvogelsawyer.com.



MY THOUGHTS

I almost hesitated to read this book because the cover and title pained my momma heart, but Kim Vogel Sawyer's name persuaded me. Sawyer did not disappoint as she has created a vibrant tale that evokes a plethora of emotions. I ached for young Hazel as her sister's disappearance upends her life and results in her parents' inability to cope and provide her with the love she needs. The impact and pain is palpable as Sawyer masterfully portrays the family dynamics of Hazel's childhood and her relationships decades later with her daughter and granddaughter. So much is tucked inside the pages of this book - mother/daughter issues, sister love, and more. Poignant and worth every tender ache, Bringing Maggie Home brims with love, loss, hope, and faith. I suggest reading this novel with a tissue in one hand and setting aside plenty of time, for you won't be able to leisurely read it in small portions. Don't miss it!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from WaterBrook Press and Litfuse Publicity Group for a blog tour. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”