BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 21 February 2023 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – BIG SECRETS LITTLE LIES by PAT NICHOLS

 

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 21 February 2023 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – BIG SECRETS LITTLE LIES by PAT NICHOLS

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – BIG SECRETS LITTLE LIES by PAT NICHOLS

 

 

THE BLURB

An intriguing and powerful story about a mysterious disappearance, a career in jeopardy, and a family confronting the truth about the past.
Daisy Butler, junior attorney in a prestigious New York law firm, is living the dream. But, beneath the surface a troubling question lingers. Was she hired based on merit or her connection to Curtis Butler, the wealthy grandfather she’s never met? When she learns Curtis is the reason for her promotion to senior associate, she is forced to choose. Will Daisy side with her father who is estranged from Curtis for reasons he keeps buried, or will she protect her job and risk breaking her father’s heart?
Poppy Butler lives a quiet life away from strangers’ stares and ridicule until investigative journalist, David Lambert, seeks to solve her mother’s thirty-five-year-old disappearance. To help solve the cold case, Poppy is compelled to reveal clues hidden in her private retreat—the same clapboard shack where she and her sister, Pansy, hid when their mother entertained men to earn a living.
While mother and daughter struggle to unravel secrets threatening their family’s legacy, Daisy’s infatuation with David complicates her romantic relationship with Michael Warner, the wealthy law firm partner who holds sway over her career and reputation.

 

THE AUTHOR

Pat Nichols began her writing journey after retiring from the corporate world. Now as an award-winning author, she’s proving it’s never too late to follow your dreams. She writes emotional southern women’s fiction and contemporary romance. Pat and her high-school-sweetheart husband of fifty-plus years live in an Atlanta suburb. She enjoys jigsaw puzzles, watching movies, riding in her hubby’s corvette, and spending time with family and friends. Her favorite indulgence, dark chocolate.

https://www.subscribepage.com/pat-nichols-newsletter

Follow Pat on Goodreads and Bookbub and connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

 

 

MY REVIEW

How many threads and layers can one story have? ‘Cause this one has more than its fair share! Ms. Nichols weaves them all together, teasing the reader page after page. She digs into the depths of the human soul and extracts loathing and depravity and avarice. But she also reveals kindness and love and forgiveness.

Caught in the crosshairs, Daisy navigates the highwire of her rising career and family bonds. With her brother, then with her dad, she faces [SPOILER].

From a corporate tightwire to a missing person mystery, Ms. Nichols takes her reader on a wild ride, into the depths of the heart and the shadows of secrets long kept. I appreciated the way the author balances the delicate character, Pansy, and gives her a vital spotlight.

The author takes the deep wounds from Danny’s past and casts shadows over his life and marriage; I read eagerly to find out what his secrets were. Page after page, she keeps the reader wondering, hoping, waiting to discover what happened to Poppy and Pansy’s mother.

Ms. Nichols takes her readers deep into the human psyche, peering at the truth of who we are, and what we can become.

 

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

FOUR FEATHERS

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Big Secrets Little Lies, Pat Nichols, Butler Family Legacy

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BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 17 January 2023 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – ROAST DATE by HEATHER DAY GILBERT

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – ROAST DATE by HEATHER DAY GILBERT

THE BLURB

Welcome to the Barks & Beans Cafe, a quaint place where folks pet shelter dogs while enjoying a cup of java…and where murder sometimes pays a visit.

After much cajoling, Macy gives in to her neighbor, Vera, and agrees to come to her book club’s Christmas party so she can share about the cafe. While public speaking isn’t Macy’s thing, she wants to brighten Vera’s lonely holiday season…and she can sell a little house blend on the side.

When a lively book discussion spirals into a public roast of the mayor—who happens to be sitting in their midst—things get uncomfortable. Soon afterward, the mayor shows up dead in Vera’s bathroom, and no amount of gingerbread cookies or eggnog can restore Vera to the club’s good graces. ‘Tis the season for Macy to find the murderer, or else Vera might be taking a long winter’s nap in a jail cell.

Join siblings Macy and Bo Hatfield as they sniff out crimes in their hometown…with plenty of dogs along for the ride! The Barks & Beans Cafe cozy mystery series features a small town, an amateur sleuth, and no swearing or graphic scenes.

THE SERIES

Book 1: No Filter
Book 2: Iced Over
Book 3: Fair Trade
Book 4: Spilled Milk
Book 5: Trouble Brewing
Book 6: Cold Drip
Book 7: Roast Date

THE AUTHOR

Award-winning novelist Heather Day Gilbert enjoys writing mysteries and Viking historicals. She brings authentic family relationships to the page, and she particularly delights in heroines who take a stand to protect those they love. Avid readers say Heather’s realistic characters–no matter what century–feel like best friends. When she’s not plotting stories, this native West Virginian can often be found hanging out with her husband and four children, playing video games, or reading Agatha Christie novels.

Find all her books and her newsletter signup at heatherdaygilbert.com.

MY REVIEW

If you’ve never visited the Barks and Beans Care, or met Macy Hatfield and her brother, Bo, then you’re in for a treat. Well, a treat with a bit of murder mixed in.

Ms. Gilbert weaves a cast of characters, friends and neighbors—red herrings—weaving in and out of the pages, coming and going to the café.

With every clue comes another twist, and more questions. The author keeps the reader engaged and guessing—and turning pages to the end.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Roast Date, Heather Day Gilbert, Barks & Beans Series

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BLOGWORDS – Friday 23 September 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-FRDAY – BOOK REVIEW – JENNY’S GRACE by PAT NICHOLS

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-FRIDAY – BOOK REVIEW – JENNY’S GRACE by PAT NICHOLS

THE BLURB

How far will she run to escape the past that holds her heart hostage?

After ten years and five cities, Chef Jenny Collins returns to Atlanta with two goals. Attract an investor and open her own restaurant to prove she’s nothing like her mother. Until a fateful decision compels her to pack all of her possessions in her car and flee again—this time to Madison, Georgia. Desperate for cash, she settles for a job serving customers and making donuts at Lou’s Coffee Shop—a far cry from the prestigious positions displayed in her chef portfolio. When she meets handsome real-estate agent, Sam Gibson, she pegs him as another short-term fling. Then she makes the mistake of falling in love. To protect him from the truth, she suppresses her emotions and feelings, hoping he’ll settle for friendship.
Sam Gibson, a regular at Lou’s Coffee Shop, is still reeling from a broken heart when Jenny walks into his office, broke and needing a place to rent. Eager to please her, he secures the one place she can afford to live—the apartment above his grandfather’s garage. As his desire for a life-long, passionate romance intensifies, her mixed signals confuse him. Despite his sister’s warnings and his growing frustration, he heeds his grandfather’s advice and vows to capture Jenny’s heart. Following her surprise announcement about a new opportunity in another town, will he summon the strength to continue fighting for her love?
When tragedy strikes, will Jenny find her way into Sam’s arms and tell him the shocking truth, or will she flee to another new beginning and keep her dark secret hidden forever?

THE AUTHOR

Pat Nichols began her writing journey after retiring from the corporate world. Now as an award-winning author, she’s proving it’s never too late to follow your dreams. She writes emotional southern women’s fiction and contemporary romance. Pat and her high-school-sweetheart husband of fifty-plus years live in an Atlanta suburb. She enjoys jigsaw puzzles, watching movies, riding in her hubby’s corvette, and spending time with family and friends. Her favorite indulgence, dark chocolate.

https://www.subscribepage.com/pat-nichols-newsletter

Follow Pat on Goodreads and Bookbub and connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

MY REVIEW

Ms. Nichols has a writing style that carries the reader into the story, not unlike chatting to friends over coffee. I really felt like I was there with the characters.

It’s a sad thing when someone is hurt so deeply they deny themselves love and happiness. To think that they’ve done something so bad, so evil that they are unforgiveable. That even Father God cannot or will not forgive. Jenny was.

She was so deeply scarred she set her sights on making her dream come true, looking only to what would make that happen.

But even when we give up on God—and love—He never gives up on us. He sees all and knows all, and makes a way not only when we cannot see a way but when we aren’t even looking for a way.

God’s way brought Jenny to Madison, and to Lou’s café, landing her smack in the middle of the ‘family’ she never had but needed and wanted.

I love a story with characters who represent God’s love for us, who love us no matter what. Even when they know the worst about us. Even when we run away.

Lou and Sam and George and Paul—all poured love and kindness into Jenny’s wounded heart, the healing balm she so desperately needed.

Ms. Nichols takes the reader deep into the heart of faith with genuine characters who live what they believe. Who love unconditionally. The author has created a community of close-knit friends—not a clique that excludes outsiders, rather a circle who welcomes strangers, who embraces those who need them.

This story will keep you reading, nudging Jenny to accept what’s right in front of her face, begging Sam to not give up, turning (or swiping) page after page, through the twists and heartbreak to the very end.

This reader sincerely hopes Ms. Nichols will take her readers back to Madison with future stories.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-0n-Friday, #TRD, Book Review, Jenny’s Grace, Pat Nichols

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BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 6 September 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE BRIDE OF BLACKFRIARS LANE by MICHELLE GRIEP

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE BRIDE OF BLACKFRIARS LANE by MICHELLE GRIEP

THE BLURB

Detective Jackson Forge can hardly wait to marry the street-sly swindler who’s turned his life upside down. Kit Turner is equally excited to wed the handsome detective, and what better way to show her love than providing him with a gift any man of the law would love? She determines to bring to justice the men who years ago maimed his brother—despite Jackson’s warning to leave the past in the past. As she digs into the mystery of what happened, she unwittingly tumbles into her own history and endangers her future happiness with Jackson.

THE AUTHOR

I hear voices. Loud. Incessant. And very real. Which basically gives me two options: choke back massive amounts of Prozac or write fiction. I’ve been writing since I discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. I seek to glorify God in all that I write–except for that graffiti phase I went through as teenager.

MY REVIEW

Michelle Griep’s stories never disappoint, and The Bride of Blackfriars Lane, is no exception. She keeps her readers hopping, eager to see what happens next.

Saucy and brassy Kit Turner has faced her share of challenges. And always she comes out the winner. Until she tumbles—literally—into a mess she can’t quite get to the bottom of. One which also goes against her future husband’s wishes. And threatens their future marriage—and her whole world.

Jackson Forge holds a more traditional view of a woman’s role, even though he’s well familiar with Kit’s wiles. When he can’t rein her in (which infuriates Kit) he begins to question their entire relationship—and threatens their upcoming nuptials.

Not only are the characters intriguing and the setting vivid, but the story is compelling, taking the reader on a journey as twisted and convoluted as the streets and alleys of London. A journey of love and compromise and self-discovery.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, The Bride of Blackfriars Lane, Michelle Griep, The Thief of Blackfriars Lane

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BLOGWORDS – Friday 12 August 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-FRIDAY – BOOK REVIEW – SHOAL WATERS by NORMANDIE FISCHER

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-FRIDAY – BOOK REVIEW – SHOAL WATERS by NORMANDIE FISCHER

Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for Shoal Waters by Normandie Fischer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Shoal Waters

Series: Carolina Coast Stories #6

Author: Normandie Fischer

Publisher: Sleepy Creek Press

Release Date: June 14, 2022

Genre: Inspirational/Clean Women’s Fiction

THE BLURB

Dementia, mad gunmen, and a yearning for something more make life difficult for the Beaufort folk in this series finale.

Georgie’s mind threatens to go walkabout, and she’d better get help soon if she’s to stop her daughter from taking over. Enter granddaughter, Jeminy, a songwriter from L.A., and Eric, her lawyer.

Jeminy hates herself and is pretty sure God does, too. There’s that huge unforgiveable sin, plus the boyfriend/manager who dumped her and lost her a music deal. Her mistakes. Her fault.

When Mother plots to tuck Nana Georgie neatly into a nursing home to gain access to Nana’s money, Jeminy hightails it out of L.A. and back to Beaufort. God may still hate her in North Carolina, but at least she’ll be on hand to protect her beloved grandmother.

Enter Eric, the lawyer hired to help Georgie protect herself–and possibly Jeminy, too. But Eric just rescued his orphaned stepson from Social Services, and while he’s adept at legal briefs and courtroom dramas, classrooms and angry second graders are brand new territory.

Guitar in hand, Jeminy tries to write songs to jumpstart her flagging career, but when someone threatens her life, she has to ask why. Could it have to do with the money missing from her bank accounts (and maybe her unstable ex)? If she prays for help, will God even listen to someone with her baggage?

With the help of the Beaufort crew, a new father and a terrified musician struggle to safeguard everyone they love, but it’s going to take more than good neighbors to show each of them the true meaning of grace.

PURCHASE LINKS*:

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub

 

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

 

THE AUTHOR

Normandie Fischer had the best of several worlds: a Southern heritage, access to schooling in the DC area (which meant lots of cultural adventures), and several years of sculpture studies in Italy. It might have been better for her if she’d used all these opportunities more wisely, but it’s possible that the imperfect and the unwise also add fodder for the artist and the writer.

Her life changed radically when she married the love of her life at an age when some would have said she was over the hill and way past her prime. (Clichés often speak the truth, don’t they?) A lifelong sailor, she was delighted to find that Michael also longed to cruise lovely waters, which is what they did from Northern CA to Mexico, spending too-few years in the incomparable Sea of Cortez. Sea Venture, their 50′ ketch, is back home in North Carolina now because Normandie’s mama needed care. Still, it’s gorgeous there, too, and she can write from home as easily as she could on the boat.

Her two grown children and two step-sons are handsome (or gorgeous, as the case may be), talented, and a delight. And now there’s a granddaughter and grandson in the mix–woohoo! She just wishes they lived a lot closer to home.

Connect with Normandie by visiting normandiefischer.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

MY REVIEW

What a treat, two Normandie Fischer stories back-to-back!

I related personally to many of the issues The Sea Prayers; Shoal Waters not so much.

I did, however, connect with Jemimy as an artist. And I well identified with having a mother who was so disparaging of her life, and the internal conflict that creates.

Ms. Fischer weaves her stories together unlike any other author I’ve read—the cast of characters whose stories criss-cross, the band of friends, and just enough red herrings to sustain the mystery and suspense.

Life hurts, it bruises us and leaves us scarred. Ms. Fischer points her characters and her readers to the One who heals and wipes away all tears. Dialogue that holds hope and faith. That “still, small voice” that speaks to all who will hear—even an unbeliever. The incident in the car [SPOILER] was clearly a God moment; Jemimy “just happened” to turn at that specific moment; Georgie “just happened” to be reclined in her seat.

My heart hurt for Jemimy as she struggled through her life, the abuse, her own choices and mistakes. And yet gently caring for her granny as “Georgie’s mind threatens to go walkabout.”

Oh, and fighting romance!

Eric carried his own burdens and heartache and insecurities. He, too, is fighting romance, and not just for professional reasons.

This story propels the reader forward, page after emotional page, eager to reach the final pages, the mystery solved, relationships resolved, and faith embraced.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card and one signed book written by Normandie Fischer (winner’s choice)!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 10, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 17, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Friday, #TRD, Book Review, Shoal Waters, Normandie Fischer, Carolina Coast Novel, JustRead Publicity

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BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 2 August 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – FOUR-BOOK REVIEW BLITZ – THE SEA PRAYERS by NORMANDIE FISCHER

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 2 August 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE SEA PRAYERS by NORMANDIE FISCHER

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE SEA PRAYERS by NORMANDIE FISCHER

THE BLURB

A waitress, a megastar, and an ex-addict wage war for the heart of a young girl.
Thirteen years ago, a spiked drink left Agnes with a permanent reminder of the man who date-raped her.
Her daughter looks like him, sounds like him, and even listens to his platinum records (of course, the dude’s a mega star because nothing is fair) but Brisa is everything Agnes has in the world. At least, she is until the day this music star sets his sights on getting himself a ready-made family.
He’s got millions of dollars, millions of fans, a high-powered legal team, and half Brisa’s DNA. Agnes has a run-down house, a friend who’s almost three years sober and afraid to say he loves her, and a lawyer willing to work pro bono.
Oh, and the whole town of Beaufort. That’s right. She’s got all those Beaufort folk at her back, praying to the God she has rejected, and not one of them is going to let Brisa go without a fight.
Another story of faith and redemption from the author of Sailing out of Darkness.

THE AUTHOR

Normandie had the best of several worlds: a Southern heritage, access to schooling in the DC area (which meant lots of cultural adventures), and several years of sculpture studies in Italy. It might have been better for her if she’d used all these opportunities more wisely, but it’s possible that the imperfect and the unwise also add fodder for the artist and the writer.

Her life changed radically when she married the love of her life at an age when some would have said she was over the hill and way past her prime. (Clichés often speak the truth, don’t they?) A lifelong sailor, she was delighted to find that Michael also longed to cruise lovely waters, which is what they did from Northern CA to Mexico, spending too-few years in the incomparable Sea of Cortez. Sea Venture, their 50′ ketch, is back home in North Carolina now because Normandie’s mama needed care. Still, it’s gorgeous there, too, and she can write from home as easily as she could on the boat.

Her two grown children and two step-sons are handsome (or gorgeous, as the case may be), talented, and a delight. And now there’s a granddaughter and grandson in the mix–woohoo! She just wishes they lived a lot closer to home.

MY REVIEW

HOLY MOLY! This author have done READ MY MAIL!! I identified with so many elements in this story!

I don’t even know where to begin this review! The depth of spiritual truth, unraveling years unforgiveness, addiction and its aftermath, rape and its aftermath, the unbound freedom of worship, the precious cost of fame and fortune.

This reader could almost tangibly feel Agnes’ sense of—no, lack of—self-worth. (too many years…) An outsider in a close community, she is welcomed and embraced by neighbors, and by mothers of Brisa’s friends.

Brisa, those dangling preteen years. All of them spent without a father, or any other family for that matter.

Henry. Precious, adorable Henry. Battling demons and yet a heart of gold.

Becca! I adored her. Faith and joy that walks in a room with her. A faith of such confidence and substance. Well, and Mama Bea. Kindred souls, those two. Clinging to roots and family, and to God’s Spirit.

Darling. Caught up in a lifestyle not of his own making. Living the dream, and yet not loving it.

Ms. Fischer writes characters with such depth, such humanity, such authenticity, I felt as though they might ring my doorbell at any moment.

The author’s style is delightful—even in telling the more sordid bits. Like friends chatting over tea. Reading a story by Ms. Fischer is a treat, even when—especially when—the subject matter is not. I appreciate her honesty in presenting the uglier side of life, while not drawing the reader into its dark depths.

I’ve not read any by Ms. Fischer before but I can guarantee you that I surely will! I’d give this story a dozen feathers! Fifty! A hundred!

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

ALL | THE | FEATHERS!      ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was under no obligation to read it or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, The Sea Prayers, Normandie Fischer, A Carolina Coast Novel, JustRead Publicity

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BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 2 August 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – FOUR-BOOK REVIEW BLITZ – MANUSCRIPT FOR MURDER by CHAUTONA HAVIG

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 2 August 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – MANUSCRIPT FOR MURDER by CHAUTONA HAVIG

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – MANUSCRIPT FOR MURDER by CHAUTONA HAVIG

THE BLURB

Alexa Hartfield. Author, local celebrity, fashion connoisseur. She chose Fairbury for its close proximity to Rockland, its small town atmosphere, and its low crime rate.
Then someone made her life a literary cliché. A mysterious accident with a light bulb sparked an interesting idea for her latest novel—and for Fairbury’s new serial killer. The first replication infuriated her. The second left an even worse taste in her mouth. The third blasted more than her self-confidence, and the fourth beat her down so far she’s considering giving up writing completely.
Who is killing Fairbury’s citizens, and furthermore, why and how are they using her novels to do it?

THE AUTHOR

Using story to connect readers with the Master Storyteller. (rem: J’ADORE this tag!)

Chautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours, and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her at chautona.com and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.

MY REVIEW

I gotta say, I just love Alexis Hartfield!! I love writing (and reading, of course.) I love her poise and quirkiness to dress in period clothing. (Might even steal that idea for myself.)

Living a quiet life if not secluded, Alexis enjoys the simplicity and freedom of having no attachments. Free to write, free to travel, free to socialize or not. Living in a small town offers amenities (or embarrassments) of knowing your neighbors—and knowing their business. And everyone in town is a neighbor or relative.

So when someone starts playing copycat to Alexis’ fiction—before it’s even published—the list of suspects is short; it’s hard to imagine someone you know doing such things. Then again, no one is beyond suspicion because it has to be somebody, right?

Ms. Havig takes her reader on quite the ride, as one murder turns into two, then three. Clues abound but provide more confusion than solutions.

The author has created characters with depth and personality, inviting her readers right into the action (if not the danger.)

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

I purchased this book, and offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my own honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Manuscript for Murder, Chautona Havig, The Hartfield Mysteries

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BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 2 August 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – FOUR-BOOK REVIEW BLITZ – DEADLY SECRETS ON MACKINAC ISLAND by CARA PUTMAN

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 2 August 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – DEADLY SECRETS ON MACKINAC ISLAND by CARA PUTMAN

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – DEADLY SECRETS ON MACKINAC ISLAND by CARA PUTMAN

THE BLURB

Join attorney Alanna Stone as she returns home despite her determination to never set foot on Mackinac Island again. Once again in close proximity to Jonathan Covington, her first love, she vows to protect her privacy and her heart from the man who still makes her pulse race. But when her worst fears are realized and history repeats itself—landing her in the midst of a murder investigation—Jonathan may be her only hope. Will they be able to lay aside the past and let God heal their hearts, or will reconciliation come too late?

Previously released as A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island.

THE AUTHOR

Since the time I could read Nancy Drew, I have wanted to write mysteries. In 2005 I attended a book signing at my local Christian bookstore. The rest, as they say, is history. There I met Colleen Coble. With prompting from my husband, I shared my dream with Colleen. Since those infamous words, I’ve been writing award-winning books with the count currently at 35 published and more in the works.

In addition to writing, I am a mom of four, attorney, lecturer at a Big Ten university, active in women’s ministry, and all around crazy woman. Crazy about God, my husband, and my kids. I graduated with honors from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (Go Huskers!), George Mason Law School, and Purdue University’s MBA program. You can learn more about my books at http://www.caraputman.com. And if you’d like a copy of my legal suspense novella, Dying for Love, simply connect with me here (http://www.caraputman.com/contact/) , and I’ll send you the link.

MY REVIEW

I suppose there are all manner of reasons for “not going home” again. But Ms. Putman raises the stakes with Alanna’s decision—murder!

Then the author raises them even further—with another murder.

Family secrets unravel and truth leaks out—and not just about the crime.

Jonathan has never let go of Alanna. Not truly and fully. Locked away in the depth of his heart is the hope their love, even though years gone by, has survived.

Working together, Alanna and Jonathan uncover not only what happened all those years ago—and clearing her brother’s name—but the depth of their feelings for one another.

Ms. Putman tells a gripping story, holding her readers captive to the final page.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

FOUR FEATHERS

I purchased this book, and offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my own honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Deadly Secrets on Mackinac Island, Cara Putman

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BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 2 August 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – FOUR-BOOK REVIEW BLITZ – IF SHE DARES by MIKAL DAWN

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 2 August 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – IF SHE DARES by MIKAL DAWN

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – IF SHE DARES by MIKAL DAWN

THE BLURB

He’s a board game champion, but can he win her heart?
Lia Walker burned the bridges—and her boss’s tie—when she quit her job at a car dealership to go work for the chancellor of a prestigious university. But when she arrives only to find out she can’t start her job, she’s burning with only one question: how will she pay her rent?
Garrison McGarville returned from working in Europe a champion—of a Ticket to Ride board game tournament. But his latest job—informing a distressed beauty she doesn’t actually have a job yet—has him feeling more like a loser.
When Garrison comes up with what he hopes is a game-winning move, will Lia dare to accept?

THE AUTHOR

Mikal Dawn is an inspirational romance author, wedding enthusiast and proud military (retired) wife. By day she works for an international sports ministry, and by night she mutters to imaginary friends, performs sketchy Google searches, and procrastinates (like any good writer!). When she isn’t writing about faith, fun, and forever, she is obsessively scouring Pinterest (with coffee in hand, of course!) for wedding ideas for her characters.

Born and raised just outside of Vancouver, Canada, Mikal lived throughout the southern and Midwestern United States, before moving to Oklahoma with her husband, two of her three kids, and one ferocious feline.

MY REVIEW

Lia Walker’s new job ended before she even started. At least the face that delivered the news was easy on the eyes. The face that offered her an alternate job, albeit a temporary one.

Garrison McGarville didn’t work at the university. Worked in cybersecurity, he said. And the occasional board game championship. (Google it, it’s a real thing! Who knew?)

I enjoyed the author’s quirky sense of style, and the quirky twist of a meet-cute. Oh, and Liz was a tad quirky, too.

As she works through her new quirky job [SPOILER] and spends more time with Garrison—he’s not micro-managing so much as protecting his “interests.” And feeding his growing interest in Lia—she is learning more about the handsome man who offered her a “quirky” sort of job.

A delightful read, each page filled with more quirkiness and just enough romantic tension to keep the reader engaged to the happily ever after.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

FOUR FEATHERS

I purchased this book, and offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my own honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, If She Dares, Mikal Dawn

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BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 26 July 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – SIX-BOOK REVIEW BLITZ – HER UNLIKELY HOMECOMING by RACHELLE PAIGE CAMPBELL

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 26 July 2022 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – HER UNLIKELY HOMECOMING by RACHELLE PAIGE CAMPBELL

TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – HER UNLIKELY HOMECOMING by RACHELLE PAIGE CAMPBELL

THE BLURB

Following a tragic accident over a decade ago, Zoey Wright vowed to never move home to Harmony, Illinois. When her career stalls, however, she’s back in town and working with her high school sweetheart, Noah Kidwell, on his company’s special collaboration. Dealing with her ex is the last thing she wants to do, but she has to take the opportunity to snag a much-needed promotion. Besides, she a professional—she can handle Noah for a few days, right?.

Determined to prove he’s not the same irresponsible guy she left behind, Noah works one on one with Zoey to launch his new clothing line. Learning her true motives, he realizes she’s not the same person anymore, either, and when he confronts her, she resorts to doing what she does best—she runs. This time, though, he’s not letting her get away. Will they be able to forgive the past and forge a new future? Or is it time to move on for good?

THE AUTHOR

Rachelle stumbled into the world of romance novels in college; as a way to help speed up her reading to make it through Art History textbooks. After years in the professional world writing very dry grant proposals and auction descriptions, she started writing the contemporary romance stories she wanted to read. Setting her books in some of her favorite destinations was her inspired way to require plenty of research trips every year with her family.

Check out her website, http://www.rachellepaigecampbell.com. Sign up for her newsletter: eepurl.com/dEjzZz

MY REVIEW

* This review contains a SPOILER ALERT.

Ms. Campbell puts a different spin on a familiar trope. As a designer the collaboration between Zoey and Noah held special interest to me. But I just couldn’t get into the story, or the characters. One issues in particular —SPOILER ALERT—was Zoey’s cousin, Amy. All through the book, the author refers to her as Zoey’s cousin. But she explains that Amy’s parents died when she was a baby and Zoey’s parents adopted her. For a passing moment, the author refers to the girls as sisters. It totally took this reader out of the story. —SPOILER ALERT OVER—

The back and forth between Zoey and Noah volleyed from professional and into personal territory. And, of course, old feelings stirred. Their professional collaboration developed nicely, and the project was a smashing success. I was particularly glad that Noah saw through the pretense Zoey’s boss tried to stage. And especially glad at the final resolution Ms. Campbell offered her characters, a very realistic solution that made everyone happy—except, of course, Zoey’s conniving boss.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

THREE FEATHERS

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Her Unlikely Homecoming, Rachelle Paige Campbell

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