Book Reviews – Page 2 – Life of Literature

March 7, 2023March 7, 2023

Under Fire by Lynn H. Blackburn

About the Book

Special Agent Tessa Reed almost lost everything, but she has emerged from her painful past healed and healthy. That is, until she is placed on special assignment to assist with protecting the President of the United States and her past comes rushing back to haunt her. She is at least excited to work once again with her old friend USSS Special Agent Zane Thacker, who is tasked with protecting the President. As threats against the President intensify, Tessa and Zane must race against the clock to discover the enemy before it is too late.

About the Author

Lynn H. Blackburn is the award-winning author of Unknown Threat and Malicious Intent, as well as the Dive Team Investigations series. She believes in the power of stories, especially those that remind us that true love exists, a gift from the Truest Love. She lives in Simpsonville, South Carolina, with her true love, Brian, and their three children. Learn more at http://www.lynnhblackburn.com.

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My Thoughts

It was easy to get sucked into this novel from the beginning pages of the prologue. I had one of those moments where I told myself I would just read a few chapters before bed and suddenly found myself devouring the book late into the night! I loved everything about this novel. The suspense has creative twists and turns that kept me guessing, the characters are flawed and real and easy to like, and both the romance and spiritual themes are woven into the plot so well that they added depth to the story without sacrificing any of the fast paced suspense. My favorite romance trope is great friends to lovers, and this novel had me cheering for Tessa and Zane from the beginning. Their witty banter is the perfect lightness to the suspense in the story. This has been a fantastic series and I am a little sad for it to end, but I can’t wait to see what this talented author pens next!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

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March 6, 2023March 13, 2023

Daughter of Eden by Jill Eileen Smith

About the Book

Eve is blessed with a wonderful husband and a beautiful garden beyond comprehension, a gift given to her by the Creator. Yet, with one choice one day, everything changes. She and Adam must now manage a completely new world with sin, pain, and sorrow. Despite the separation from the Creator in Eden, however, Eve begins to experience moments of closeness with Him, and she and Adam learn to survive in a world forever changed.

About the Author

Jill Eileen Smith is the bestselling and award-winning author of the biblical fiction series The Wives of King David, Wives of the Patriarchs, and Daughters of the Promised Land, as well as The Heart of a King, Star of Persia: Esther’s Story, Miriam’s Song, and The Prince and the Prodigal. She is also the author of the nonfiction books When Life Doesn’t Match Your Dreams and She Walked Before Us. Her research has taken her from the Bible to Israel, and she particularly enjoys learning how women lived in biblical times. Jill lives with her family in southeast Michigan. Learn more at http://www.jilleileensmith.com.

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My Thoughts

This novel has fantastic descriptions that transported me to a fictional telling of the true story of Eve. I felt her emotions and her struggles as she went from the perfect Eden to a scary sinful world. I was struck for the first time, despite reading her story many times in the Bible, of the crazy circumstances Eve must have faced as one of two of the first humans on earth. Despite the realistic sin told in the novel, there is a thread of hope in the book, especially since we know that the enemy has already been defeated. I really liked the perspective of this book and once again, I felt like this author made the Bible come alive in a new way for me. I highly recommend this book to those who love Biblical fiction and also to those who want to give Biblical fiction a try!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

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February 27, 2023February 26, 2023

To Win Her Hand by Jen Geigle Johnson

Thank you for joining me today on my blog as I feature To Win Her Hand by Jen Geigle Johnson, on tour with Austen Prose Tours!

Book Details

Title: To Win Her Hand
Series: A Gentleman’s Match (Book 1)
Author: Jen Geigle Johnson
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction
Publisher: King’s Row Press
Publication date: December 15, 2022
Length: 272 pages
Format: Hardcover, Trade Paperback, & eBook
ISBN: 978-1737592174
Tour Dates: February 27 – March 13, 2023

About the Book

An expert at winning a woman’s hand. A woman who cannot be won.

Lord Featherstone has the world on his shoulders. Or at least his world. With two brothers and a failing estate he must make funds somehow. But what happens when he falls for a woman? Will his tactics work when the situation is so close and personal?

Everyone thinks Lady Loveluck is a wealthy widow. What they don’t know is that she is on the brink of hiring herself out as a Governess in order to pay for her next meal. The only thing keeping her from employment is a growing reputation as a matchmaker. As long as she never falls for another man, as long as she doesn’t allow herself to be fooled into marrying, she will be just fine.

But she never counted on being caught up in the beguiling tactics of London’s renowned and not so secret matchmaker for men.

About the Author

Jen Geigle Johnson is an award-winning author, including the GOLD in Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards and LDSPMA Praiseworthy’s top award for Romance,

Jen has more stories circulating in her brain than can possibly be told. She discovered her passion for England while kayaking on the Thames near London as a young teenager. History is her main jam. Her literary heroes include the greats: Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. But she has modern sensibilities as well.

Six children and an inspiring husband keep her going and make certain she doesn’t stay glued to a keyboard or lost in obscure fascinating details of old castles.

Now, she loves to share bits of history that might otherwise be forgotten. Whether in Regency England, the French Revolution, or Colonial America, her romance novels are much like life is supposed to be: full of adventure.

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Advance Praise

“I loved the character growth, watching them learn more about the other’s heart and hardships, and the realization that perhaps they had more choices than they first thought. Such a sweet regency. I’m so grateful I had the chance to read this one.”— Makayla Branson, Reading Past Bedtime
“The house party, the quiet moments, the collection of other characters, and much more all combined together made this is delightful read.”— Julie Carpenter, Goodreads
“Two matchmakers with a wager. What fun for all! [A] heart touching story.”— Shauna Jones, Goodreads

My Thoughts

Witty banter and heart throbbing romance abound in this Regency novel! I really enjoyed the two main matchmaking characters and found their lively interactions to be entertaining. They are both facing financial situations that give their characters some realistic struggles, and they had sweet vulnerable moments woven among the humor to give the book some depth. Lord Featherstone’s sincere pursuit of Lady Loveluck is truly endearing. I found a few plot points a bit confusing and the story jumped around too much, especially with the secondary characters, but I did enjoy the novel overall. I think perhaps this first book was setting us up for future novels. I love Regency novels and this book has all the history, balls, gowns, and manors of that time period well described and incorporated. I wish the ending hadn’t been quite so rushed, but I’m hoping we read more of these two in the next book. For those who love Regency novels, give this one a try!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

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February 23, 2023February 24, 2023

The Sound of Light by Sarah Sundin

About the Book

American physicist Dr. Else Jensen is doing research in Copenhagen and finds herself facing an imminent invasion from Germany, but she refuses to leave her hard work and flee to safety. She is intrigued by the mysterious and silent shipyard worker in her boardinghouse who has also chosen to stay in the city despite the turmoil. Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt has exchanged his nobility for anonymity in order to aid the Danish Resistance. As danger grows, Else and Henrik each face painful sacrifices with the hope of greater rewards.

About the Author

Sarah Sundin is the bestselling author of When Twilight Breaks, Until Leaves Fall in Paris, and the popular WWII series Sunrise at Normandy, among others. She is a Christy Award finalist and a Carol Award winner, and her novels have received starred reviews from Booklist, Library Journal, and Publishers Weekly, and have appeared on Booklist‘s “101 Best Romance Novels of the Last 10 Years.” Sarah lives in California. Visit http://www.sarahsundin.com for more information.

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My Thoughts

Gripping and thrilling, this story grabbed my heart from the beginning and is still lingering with me long after I have finished. I love the way this author writes, poetic and lyrical with such rich descriptions and settings. The history is very interesting. I have read a lot of World War II books, but I don’t think I’ve read one set in Denmark and I found it very fascinating. And the characters are exactly what you want in a novel—a little flawed, a little messy, and a lot of amazing traits that made me fall in love with them. Else is my favorite because she is smart, independent, and bold. This novel tackles courage, faith, and conviction with ease, and I was so invested in the story, it made me cry more than once. I absolutely loved this novel and most highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

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February 21, 2023March 20, 2023

The Maid of Ballymacool by Jennifer Deibel

About the Book

Brianna Kelly passes her free time working at Ballymacool House and Boarding School by exploring the grounds and looking for hidden treasure. When she finds a mysterious silver platter in the woods, she is determined to figure out its origin. She turns to handsome newcomer Michael Wray, who is the son of local gentry and recently returned to town to handle a family matter. However, both Brianna and Michael hold secrets that may change everything.

About the Author

Jennifer Deibel is the author of A Dance in Donegal (winner of the Kipp Award for Historical Romance) and The Lady of Galway Manor (a Parable Group bestseller). Her work has appeared on (in)courage, on The Better Mom, in Missions Mosaic magazine, and in other publications. With firsthand immersive experience abroad, Jennifer writes stories that help redefine home through the lens of culture, history, and family. After nearly a decade of living in Ireland and Austria, she now lives in Arizona with her husband and their three children. You can find her online at http://www.jenniferdeibel.com.

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My Thoughts

I was so excited to be transported to picturesque Ireland with the help of this talented author once again. I think she does a fantastic job describing the scenery that serves as a perfect backdrop for this story. I really liked reading about Brianna. Despite difficult circumstances, she looks for ways to be happy and I was cheering for her to find her happily ever after throughout the novel. There is such tender forgiveness and restoration woven among the pages. I love how the author includes spiritual truths without seeming preachy. I was also captivated by the secrets and mystery in this novel and I could not put it down as I wished to know the ending. The romance is sweet and realistic. I truly loved this novel and I am looking forward to reading more by this author.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

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February 14, 2023March 8, 2023

Counterfeit Hope by Crystal Caudill

About the Book

Secret Service agent Andrew Darlington is sent to rural Indiana to investigate a counterfeit case, during which he clashes with a criminal family that has haunted him before. Lu Thorne was interested in testifying against the infamous Thorne family, but the Marshal assisting her suddenly ends up dead. Forced to work with Andrew, she worries that his secrets could destroy everything she has worked so hard for, and Andrew, too, starts to wonder if the widow Lu is hiding something as well.

About the Author

Crystal Caudill is the author of “dangerously good historical romance,” with her work garnering awards from Romance Writers of America and ACFW. She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, Caudill can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio. Find out more at crystalcaudill.com.

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My Thoughts

An amazing story full of faith, forgiveness, and second chances, this novel grabbed my heart from the beginning and wouldn’t let go! I enjoyed the historical setting and thought the historical details were well told. I really liked the twists and turns of the mystery and had a hard time guessing the ending. My favorite parts of the novel, however, were the realistic characters and their deep struggles that spoke of trials, all told with a thread of hope in the story. I loved Lu and her growth as she learns about God’s great forgiveness. And the romance is slow burning and perfect as well. I found myself completely captivated by this book and I cannot wait to read what this talented author pens next.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

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February 13, 2023

The Last Chance Cowboy by Jody Hedlund

About the Book

After Catherine Remington helps deliver an infant in the middle of the night in a bad part of town, she finds herself suddenly witnessing a dangerous crime. Forced to escape the area, she decides to honor her patient’s last wish to bring the newborn infant to his father in Colorado. She is not sure what to expect, but she is not expecting the father to be the sheriff of Fairplay. Dylan McQuaid is stunned when Catherine shows up with an infant she claims is his son, but he wants to do the right thing and care for the baby. As Dylan and Catherine attempt to navigate the tricky situation, they form a bond that soon develops into something more.

About the Author

Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of over 40 historical novels for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards, including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Awards. Jody lives in Michigan with her husband, busy family, and five spoiled cats. Learn more at jodyhedlund.com.

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My Thoughts

Fantastic characters and sizzling romance abound in this novel! This is one of my favorite romance tropes. I really liked Catherine and her strength. She was such an easy character to cheer for throughout the novel. And I really enjoyed reading about Dylan’s continued journey towards redemption and forgiveness. Although this novel stands well on is own, I think the reader gets good background information on the characters in the earlier books. I thought the plot had some great twists that kept it interesting and surprised me along the way. This has been a fantastic series and I am somewhat sad that it is ending. Highly recommended!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

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February 7, 2023February 8, 2023

The Weight of Air by Kimberly Duffy

About the Book

Mabel MacGinnis, “Europe’s Strongest Woman,” finds herself adrift and aimless after her father, a renowned strongman, suddenly passes away. Just as she is to commit to a new act, she is informed that her mother, long thought to be dead, is alive and a famous aerialist in America. She decides to make the trip to America to find her mother. Jake Cunningham, a close friend of her family from the circus, cannot bear to let Mabel make the trip alone, so he decides to help her search for her mother in America on his way to see his family in Kansas. However, soon the circus calls once more to Mabel and Jake, forcing them to have to make a decision about which road they must travel to discover their place in the world.

About the Author

Kimberly Duffy is a Long Island native currently living in southwest Ohio. When she’s not homeschooling her four kids, she writes historical fiction that takes her readers back in time and across oceans. She loves trips that require a passport, recipe books, and practicing kissing scenes with her husband of twenty-three years. He doesn’t mind. Learn more at kimberlyduffy.com.

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My Thoughts

This author is one of my favorites because she has such a gift in writing rich characters that become alive in your mind and stay with you long after you have finished the book. I really, really liked Mabel. She is so sweet with such a big heart. I enjoyed reading about her relationship with Jake. I liked that the characters are not perfect and have very realistic struggles. This novel handles themes of forgiveness and trust very well, and I loved reading how Mabel and Isabella made peace with their pasts and learned to move forward with hope and love. I was also captivated by the circus life of 1910 and thought the author did a fantastic job describing the scenes such that it was easy to envision the setting. The author’s lyrical writing style flows so well and allows me to effortlessly immerse myself into the story. I have loved every one of her novels and this one was another great book. Highly recommended!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

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February 7, 2023February 7, 2023

Cold Light of Day by Elizabeth Goddard

About the Book

Autumn Long is police chief of Shadow Gap, Alaska, but she is feeling incompetent after a series of unexplained murders and an attack on a family member leave her shaken. She is naturally distrustful of those not in her close-knit community, but she finds herself oddly trusting Grier Brenner, despite the fact that he is a newcomer. But Grier has secrets and a dark past, part of which may catch up to him and endanger not only himself but also Autumn and their entire community.

About the Author

Elizabeth Goddard is the USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than 50 novels, including the Rocky Mountain Courage and Uncommon Justice series. Her books have sold over 1 million copies. She is a Carol Award winner and a Daphne du Maurier Award finalist. When she’s not writing, she loves spending time with her family, traveling to find inspiration for her next book, and serving with her husband in ministry. For more information about her books, visit her website at http://www.elizabethgoddard.com.

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My Thoughts

Chilling and suspenseful, this novel pulls you in, grips you tight, and keeps you reading long into the night! I really liked the setting of this newest series by a talented author. It was easy to imagine the frigid Alaskan frontier. I also loved the interactions of Autumn and Grier. Their relationship developed believably as the fast-paced action never let up. The characters are realistic and relatable, and I enjoyed the growth of faith they experienced. And let’s not forget the incredible action and twists and turns in this novel, with eerie villains and an ending I did not see coming. This is one of those books where you want to call in sick to work so you can cozy up with a blanket and read it straight through so you can find out what happens! I highly recommend this book and I cannot wait to read the next one in the series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

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February 5, 2023

Everything Is Just Beginning by Erin Bartels

About the Book

Michael Sullivan has big dreams of being a musician, but when he suddenly finds himself without a job or a future, he is uncertain that his dreams will ever come true. That is until an invitation to a fancy New Year’s Eve party sets events in motion that could forever change his future. Natalie Wheeler may be an heir to a musical dynasty, but the fading of her family’s name means she must now find her own way in life. When she meets Mike on that New Year’s Eve, they are both changed forever.

About the Author

Erin Bartels is the award-winning author of We Hope for Better Things, The Words between Us, All That We Carried, and The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water. A two-time Christy finalist and winner of two 2020 WFWA Star Awards and the 2020 Michigan Notable Book Award, Erin has been a publishing professional for twenty years. She lives in Lansing, Michigan, with her husband, Zachary, and their son. Find her online at http://www.erinbartels.com.

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My Thoughts

I overall enjoyed this story, packed as it is with raw emotion and some good character development. I found Natalie to be endearing and she effortlessly captured my attention with her positive outlook on life and her upbeat attitude despite many trials that she faced. Michael’s journey is riddled with good character growth, although I would have liked to see a bit more of the spiritual changes in him detailed as well. This is made up for in the delight that is Deb, who is a kind and generous mother to Natalie and a great addition to the novel. I thought the chapters were cleverly laid out in tracks instead of chapters and I found myself wishing I could listen to the music they were discussing in the novel. I read a lot of Christian romance fiction and I found it interesting that this novel took on the perspective of Mike for the story. I think the author did a good job of creating a story with depth that made me want to keep reading. I recommend this book to those who enjoy romantic stories.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.