My Review - Burden of Proof by Davis Bunn

4 out of 5 stars

BURDEN OF PROOF - another unique story from Davis Bunn.

Ethan’s days are numbered, and as he reflects on his fifty-five years, he feels the heaviness of remorse. However, when his sister-in-law and niece show up offering him a chance to right his most regretted wrong, he jumps at the chance.

So begins a Sci-Fi story of time travel and reflection.

Ethan travels back to the past, eighteen days prior to his brother’s murder, giving himself enough time to put in place the tools he needs to save his brother’s life. Leaving the future with one crucial purpose, he lands in the past realizing he wants to change so much more. Knowing what he does at the end of his life, Ethan sets out to right the wrongs of his selfish youth and the damage he created in the lives of the people he touched. However, as Ethan gathers information to change that fateful day, he begins to realize the event that took his brother’s life is not what it seems. There is more behind his death than a random gunman. Unfortunately, Ethan only has a few days to figure it out, or the past just might repeat itself.

There is so much more to say about this intriguing novel, but I don’t want to spoil those discoveries for others. Even so, here are a few quick observations. #1-Even though I’m not a fan of Sci-Fi or time travel, Davis Bunn has a unique way of drawing in the reader. His writing is intelligent. And to be honest, I don’t know if I would have read this book if it were not for the fact that he was the author. I have read his other books and appreciate his thought-provoking style. #2-The story has a slow build. You have to stick with it through the scientific jargon and some of the unhurried reflective scenes. Since I know his previous books had satisfying endings, that knowledge helped me press on through some of the slower sections. #3-Not all enjoyable books have the happily-ever-after ending that some readers prefer. Even so, a satisfying story can outweigh a cookie-cutter ending. #4-Even though this book was published by a Christian publishing house, I wouldn’t consider it a Christian novel that draws attention to Jesus Christ. It is a clean read that allows a person with conservative values to read a good book without the worry of foul language or gratuitous sexual content.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing for review purposes. However, I was not required to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

 

 

My Review - The ESCAPE by Lisa Harris

 4 our of 5 stars

A high-speed novel, THE ESCAPE by Lisa Harris, will keep you turning pages along into the night.

US Marshals Madison James and Jonas Quinn team up to escort two prisoners to Colorado. Having met before, they have a mutual respect each other and welcome the partnership. However, what they assume will be a routine assignment, is anything but. Standard procedure turns into a manhunt when their plane crashes and one of the prisoner’s escapes. Surviving a plane crash is one thing but trying to catch a felon who has mastered the art of persuasion and is always one step ahead of them has them racing against the clock.

On a personal level, both Madison and Jonas are dealing with unresolved grief from their past. Madison with the death of her husband, and Jonas with the rejection from the woman he thought he would marry. Having similar wounds, they spend time helping each other process. And even though they feel a closeness developing between them, they have very strong feelings about relationships—neither of them is ready to move on. And, with the added component of being partners, they both ignore the possibility that they could be good for each other and decide to keep their relationship at the friends level. But, can they just be friends when the care so deeply?

THE ESCAPE was captivating, and I’m intrigued because the ending wasn’t what I expected. I would’ve liked to see a little more romance, but I know I will get more in the next installment. I think the only issues I had with the story was how many times the fugitive slipped through their hands, and how few wounds Madison, Jonas, and the prisoner got. Crashing planes, plunging off bridges, I would have expected a few more injuries. Even so, I definitely look forward to the next installment in the US MARSHAL SERIES.

Though I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell, I was under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

 

My Review - Point of Danger by Irene Hannon

5 out of 5 stars

POINT OF DANGER was right on point with the political climate of today. Though others might not appreciate the political lean of the book, I loved it!

Not everyone agrees with radio talk show host, Eve Reilly. Even though she has a loyal following, someone in her audience wants to silence her. Not one to back down, Eve refuses to allow a disgruntle listener to influence her. Even so, she’s practical enough to know she needs someone on her side to keep her safe. In walks Brent Lange.

Detective Brent Lange doesn’t like the tone of the threats leveled against Eve, but without any strong leads, he’s grasping at straws to find a suspect. Working the case, he finds himself drawn to Eve. However, with a failed relationship in his past, he’s convinced that he’s not marriage material.

The more time Eve and Brent spend together, the more their connection grows. Unfortunately, the threats against Eve intensify as well. Playing beat the clock, Brent begins to piece together the puzzle that will lead to their suspect. But will it be in time?

POINT OF DANGER is another novel in a long line of books from Irene Hannon that kept me on the edge of my seat. Her books are always filled with great characters and unexpected foes. The banter between Eve and her sisters was great. It added just the right amount of levity to give the reader time to breath. Though Meg’s storyline was a bit depressing, it’s not uncommon in the world we live in. Without giving too much away, I loved how the tables were turned on Brent regarding his high-risk career. I also liked that Eve wasn’t afraid to show Brent how she felt. She was willing to be bold, and I found that a refreshing change from most heroines in Christian novels.

POINT OF DANGER is the first installment in the TRIPLE THREAT series. Assuming the series is set around the Reilly sisters, I can’t wait to learn more about Cate and Grace. If they are anything like Eve, their stories are sure to be page-turners.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 

My Review - The Price of Valor by Susan May Warren

 
5++ out of 5 stars

THE PRICE OF VALOR was an EPIC read!

5 stars are not a high enough rating nor are there enough high-speed adjectives to describe the rollercoaster journey Hamilton Jones and Signe Kincaid navigate in this romance/action/suspense novel.

Hamilton (Ham) Jones is still navigating fatherhood, and at times, finds himself asking the unanswerable question . . . why? Why did Signe leave him? Why did Signe hide his daughter from him? And why did Signe tell him ‘don’t try to find me?’ But soon, he might have answers to his questions. When it is thought that Signe is an operative with valuable information that she needs to pass to someone she can trust, Ham and his team head for Italy.

Signe Kincaid has sacrificed everything. Her child. Herself. And a life with the only man she ever loved. But, if she can keep them safe, it will have been worth it. On the lam—and fearing she’s being hunted—Signe needs to get the information she’s acquired into safe hands before she is found. When she spots Ham and his team, her heart and her head do battle. She knows he is there to find her, and she would like nothing better than to fall into his arms and beg his forgiveness, but she can’t. If Ham jeopardizes her plan, everything she’s sacrificed for the last ten years will have been for nothing.

This story travels at such a high rate of speed, the only time I slowed down was to catch my breath. Ham, and the men and women who make up his team, are amazing characters. Each one is a hero in their own right, but it’s the tenderness and heartache they’ve all experienced that makes them so genuine. And a bonus . . . we not only follow Ham and Signe’s story, but Orion and Jenny from book two are front and center as well, along with numerous characters from other Susan May Warren series.  I cannot elaborate too much for fear of spoiling, but I will say, the Global Search and Rescue series is a MUST READ!

Another AMAZING series from Susan May Warren!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing with no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are mine.

My Review - Acceptable Risk by Lynette Eason

5+ out of 5 stars 

Wow! Another great adventure from Lynette Eason! I think I held my breath through the entire book!

Sarah Denning, a military journalist, is on emotional overload. Though she is thankful to be alive after surviving a hostage situation, she is angry her lieutenant general father is responsible for her freedom. She is grateful for the covert team who rescued her, but coming face-to-face with team leader, Gavin Black—a man she once had feelings for—scrambles her senses. Then, when she finds out her brother who is suffering from PTSD has committed suicide, along with a list of other Army veterans, she vows to figure out what is causing recovering men and women to take their own lives.

Former Army Ranger Gavin Black is thankful Sarah Denning got out of the Middle East in one piece, but his next obstacle is making sure she stays that way. Needing to stay focused, he tries to put his feelings for Sarah on the back burner, a task easier said than done. When it’s clear her life is still in danger, he and Sarah must race against the clock to find out what is happening to military veterans, and who wants Sarah dead.

ACCEPTABLE RISK was not just your run-of-the-mill romance/suspense. It was suspense on steroids! The story was intricately woven together with different threads from Sarah’s life, a life made up of many layers that were continually being peeled away as the story intensified. And then there was Gavin, the reluctant hero. Though he knew both he and Sarah were trying to process their past feelings for each other, he also knew at any moment she could discover the secret he was keeping from her and kick him to the curb. But no matter what happened, he vowed to keep her safe, a promise he had no intention of breaking.

ACCEPTABLE RISK is a fast-pace story that kept me on the edge of my seat. I can’t wait to read ACTIVE DEFENSE, book three in the Danger Never Sleeps series.

Though an advance copy of this book was provided to me by Revell, all opinions and comments are my own.

My Review - Don't Keep Silent by Elizabeth Goddard

4.5 out of 5 stars

DON’T KEEP SILENT is the final installment in the Uncommon Justice series, and for me, it was the best by far!

Rae Burke is an investigative reporter who will stop at nothing when pursuing a story. But when her sister-in-law goes missing, the stakes are raised to an even higher level. So much so, she reaches out to Liam McKade, the DEA agent who almost lost his life saving hers.

Trying to find himself, Liam McKade returns to his family ranch in Wyoming, but it isn’t peace that he finds. Rae Burke, of all people, seeks him out and asks for his help. Furious that she has the nerve to insert herself into his world, he tells her to leave. But knowing the danger she is toying with, he has no other option but to help.

What starts out as one dead-end after another, soon breaks open into a spiderweb of heinous activity involving: sex trafficking, drugs, and the dark web. Lives are in danger. Time is running out. And even though Rae and Liam feel an undeniable force pulling them together, they both struggle with the idea of endangering each other in their pursuit of the truth.

After reading all three installments in the Uncommon Justice series, I feel DON’T KEEP SILENT had the most action, twists and turns that were unexpected but credible, and a hero and heroine with insecurities and flaws that made them relatable and human. Rae isn’t used to someone else calling the shots, so her split decisions were completely in character even though they drove Liam crazy. And Liam’s protective nature wasn’t over-bearing, he just acted on his instincts . . . to keep the woman he loved (even though he didn’t know it yet) safe. At times, the integral plot and the number of players was difficult to keep straight, but it didn’t slow down the momentum. Though the ratio of suspense to romance was more on a 70/30 scale, a little less than I am looking for, it still kept my attention to the very end.

I received an advance copy of this book from Revell in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

My Review - The Heart of a Hero by Susan May Warren

5 out of 5 stars

THE HEART OF A HERO, book two in the Global Search and Rescue series was definitely action-packed, both physically and emotionally.

Former Navy SEAL, Jake Silvers, is coming to grips with who he is and what he’s become. A SEAL. A sniper. A villain. Does he protect people? Or does he eliminate threats? Dealing with these emotions and a tragedy from his childhood, Jake doesn’t see himself as settling down material. However, when he rescues Dr. Aria Sinclair from the slopes of Denali, and their paths continue to cross due to mutual friends, he has to do some soul-searching and decide what kind of man he wants to be.

Aria Sinclair’s life work is taking care of children. As a pediatric heart surgeon, she devotes herself to kids who are just like she was. Though personal tragedy gifted her with a new heart, she doesn’t feel deserving of it. She is constantly going above and beyond to prove herself worthy, leaving her lonely and without much of a personal life. That is until she meets Jake Silvers. She tries to convince herself that the feelings they shared for each other were merely the results of an emotion-filled, life-and-death experience. But every time she thinks of him, she can’t help but feel they are fighting the same demons, and in doing so they push their own happiness aside.

When Jake follows Aria to Florida, and they find themselves in a category 4 hurricane, their need for each other resurfaces. Now they have to hope and pray they survive not only the cataclysmic storm but the other dangers that threaten them.

THE HEART OF A HERO overflowed with action and danger. So much so, I found myself questioning each new hurdle that put our hero and heroine in jeopardy. I mean . . . how can two people be that unlucky? Even so, I continued on because that is what good fiction is all about. Entertainment. Escapism. A story that grabs you and doesn’t let you go. Characters you cheer for, and sometimes want to smack up the side of the head. Though I feel Aria’s struggles were a little more self-induced than Jake’s, their internal battles of self-worth were believable. While THE HEART OF A HERO was Jake and Aria’s story, we also got a glimpse into the life of Hamilton Jones, the focus of THE PRICE OF VALOR the next book in the series. Overall, I am thoroughly enjoying this series. Not that I had any doubt that I would. Ms. Warren always creates stories and characters that get your heart pumping and your pulse racing.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Revell. However, the opinions expressed are completely my own and without influence.

My Review - Standoff by Patricia Bradley

4.5 out of 5 stars

STANDOFF by Patricia Bradley embodies the meaning of the word suspense. The intrigue builds as the characters are fleshed out and the complexity of the story intensifies.

Brooke Danvers, a newly commissioned park ranger, will stop at nothing to find out who killed her father and why. What she did not plan for is having Luke Fereday help in her quest. Her childhood crush is an enigma. When he magically appears on the scene, with a vague story of why he is back home, she doesn’t think much of it. But, the more he inserts himself in her investigation, the more she realizes he isn’t who he says he is. Keeping him at arm’s length is her plan, but her heart is not following her lead.

Luke Fereday can’t explain to Brooke his interest in her father’s death or the other homicides plaguing the city of Natchez. He also can’t convince his heart to stay out of the matter. Even though his feelings for Brooke deepen, he knows she deserves more than he can offer her. Especially since the most eligible bachelor in town is pursing her. As Luke races to find out who all the players are in the drug cartel he is investigating, Brooke finds herself smack dab in the middle.

STANDOFF exemplifies romance/suspense.  The rate in which the suspense builds keeps pace with the development of the romance between Brooke and Luke, even adding the twist of Jeremy and Molly to pull on Brooke’s heartstrings. Though I applaud STANDOFF, the reason I didn’t give it five stars is because, though the momentum did build, the beginning starts out a bit slow. However, being a fan of Ms. Bradley, I knew she would deliver the goods in the end.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

My Review - She Walks in Majesty by MaryLu Tyndall

5+ out of 5 stars

Sadly, SHE WALKS IN MAJESTY, is the conclusion to the Protector of the Spear series by MaryLu Tyndall, but that is the only negative to this book.

A thrilling ride.

A treacherous journey.

A battle between evil and good.

And a love story that grows despite trials and tribulations.  

Seraphina de Mowbray, the protector of the spear, must make her way to the capital city of Regalis. Her mission . . . an audience with His Majesty, King Peter II. Her hope . . . to clear her friends, the D’Clere sisters of the charge of witchcraft and Sir Ronar LePeine and Jarin the Just of treason. Even so, the journey is not without its obstacles. Evil surrounds her and there are those who want to see her stopped, dead even. But with the spear to protect her, she bravely trudges on knowing her friends face certain death. And even though she worries for Sir Damien’s safety, she is thankful to have him near.

Sir Damien struggles to do right. His heart is smitten with the beautiful Mistress Seraphina and wants only to keep her safe. Though he knows she has feelings for him, she also knows the minute he steps foot in Regalis, he will be arrested. But that doesn’t stop Sir Damien. He

insists on continuing with her on her journey, no matter the cost. However, when faced with the opportunity of finding out the person responsible for the death of his parents, he just might sacrifice it all for his ferocious revenge.

Good versus evil. Angels of light versus powers of darkness. Love and sacrifice. Brave knights. Strong heroines. Sacrifice and service. Kingdoms and spiritual realms. Ms. Tyndall spins them all together to create an amazing story that will keep you on the very edge of your seat. I can’t say enough about the incredible journey SHE WALKS IN MAJESTY will take you on. Though I am disappointed it’s the end of the series, I am more than thankful for the adventure.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All opinions are my own.

My Review - Collateral Damage by Lynette Eason

5 out of 5 stars

COLLATERAL DAMAGE by Lynette Eason was a real page turner, exactly what I have come to expect from this author.

Discharged military psychiatrist, Brooke Adams, wants to help others. Unfortunately, she has her own nightmares to deal with and the prospect that someone might want her dead.

Former Special Ops Sergeant Asher James finally acknowledges he needs help dealing with the demons in his past. He decides to visit Brooke Adams, only to find her stateside office in shambles and a target on her back.

As they both seek answers to the death of a mutual friend, and the peculiarities surrounding an Afghanistan bombing, Brooke and Asher grow closer together. When they realize their mutual respect for each other has turned into something more, they race against the clock to find out who wants Brooke dead and how it ties back to the bombing that first brought them together.

COLLATERAL DAMAGE—as already mentioned—was a true page-turner. Knowing that is how I feel whenever I pick up a book by Lynette Eason, I waited until I had uninterrupted time on my hands before reading it. Less than twenty-four hours later, I am writing this review, and adding another amazing book to my list of favorites.

Ms. Eason knows how to capture the attention of her readers. Her intricate plotlines and the magnetism of her characters immediately draw you into the story and holds your interest until the always satisfying conclusion. I loved the way the relationship between Brooke and Asher grew organically. What starts off as mutual respect and a desire to help each other, quickly develops into a deep-seeded connection. Their military experiences create a bond—a comradery—others don’t understand. Ms. Eason is also good at building a well-rounded group of secondary characters. Knowing some of these characters will step into the spotlight as the series progresses, adds to the enjoyment of reading Lynette Eason’s books.

I can’t wait for the release of ACCEPTABLE RISK, book two in the DANGER NEVER SLEEPS series.

I received a complimentary copy of COLLATERAL DAMAGE from Revell Reads for reviewing purposes. A positive review was not required. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

My Review - She Walks in Love by MaryLu Tyndall

5 out of 5 stars

There aren’t enough adjectives to describe SHE WALKS IN LOVE, the second installment in the Protector of the Spear series by MaryLu Tyndall. Amazing imagery, intense spiritual warfare, thrilling adventure, and captivating chemistry between Lady Cristiana D’Clere, the protector of the Spear, and Sir Jarin the Just, the knight determined to see her returned to her rightful place at Luxley Castle.

As the book starts, Lady Cristiana has already escaped from one who has poisoned her, left Sir Cedric LeGode at the altar, and has taken refuge at Braewood Castle, only to find out Lord Braewood is not the benevolent benefactor she thought him to be. So, she flees with Thebe, a two-year-old orphan she has become very attached to. With Jarin the Just as her aid, she sets her sights on Luxley Castle, but they must navigate a path littered with those who seek to kill her and take the precious Spear and the power it holds.

Though Jarin the Just has given up believing in God, he can’t deny the miracles that have happened as he and Lady Cristiana continue on their treacherous journey. He also can’t deny his growing feelings for Cristiana and the little imp, Thebe. Though he has sworn off the thought of marriage and family, time spent with these two give him a glimpse of what family looks like, and for the first time in his life, he feels himself yearn for a life with one woman, and a child that pulls at his heartstrings. Even as he entertains such an idea, he knows his volatile past and his womanizing reputation are not worthy of Lady Cristiana. So, he suppresses his feelings and remains diligent in his quest to see her safely returned to Luxley Castle.

MaryLu Tyndall had expertly woven together a Medieval fantasy with Christian romance, and the very real battle of good versus evil in the spiritual realm. She expertly paints a picture of Ephesians 6:12 - For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but again the rulers, against authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. I am not a person who enjoys books like Harry Potter or movies containing sorcery, but I LOVED how MaryLu portrayed the wicked and sinister, and the very real oppression that can happen when people allow themselves to be entertained by evil. 

If you like Christian romance books, you will love the intese attraction between Cristiana and Jarin. If you like Medieval era, and all that comes with it-castles, knights, ladies, chivalry, etc., you will LOVE this latest installment from MaryLu Tyndall. But, do yourself a favor, read SHE WALKS IN POWER, the first book in the series as well as SHE WALKS IN LOVE. It will double your enjoyment!

I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.

Coming Soon - Grace Will Lead You Home

I am excited to announce the release of my 8th novel. 

Here is the back cover synopsis to give you a glimpse. Or, click on the link to the right to read the first two chapters.

Home is the last place Cassidy wants to go.

It holds nothing but painful memories and heartache.

But home is exactly where she needs to be.

To heal, to love, to find her faith again.

After suffering a devastating loss in high school, Cassidy Martin has one clear goal—leave Liberty, Wyoming far behind her. With an art scholarship in hand, she heads to New York with dreams of becoming an artist. Nine years and an abusive marriage later, she finds herself back in Liberty, butting heads with her ultra-conservative father.

Once the high school geek, Wilbur (Wil) Marsh, is now a successful veterinarian and self-appointed caretaker to Joseph Martin, Cassidy’s dad. When Cassidy blows back into town with her big-city cynicism and self-destructive attitude, Wil cuts her little slack in his attempt to protect Joseph from her caustic behavior.

Though Cassidy is drowning in a sea of hurt and betrayal, she refuses to let anyone in. She blames God for the pain and disappointment in her life, takes exception to her father’s constant God-filled talks, and is jealous of the close relationship Wil shares with her father.

Despite her contemptuous opinion that Liberty is a dead-end place with nothing to offer, Cassidy’s heart begins to soften. She works hard to restore her relationship with her dad and God, and begins to acknowledge her growing feelings for Wil. Taking one day at a time, Cassidy finally feels she is on the right track, until another devastating blow threatens to turn her world upside down.

My Review - Convergence by Ginny L. Yttrup

3 out of 5 stars

CONVERGENCE by Ginny Yttrup is suspenseful, but only for the patient. And with a misleading back cover, a reader might feel deceived from the very beginning.

Psychologist, Dr. Denilyn Rossi is experiencing Déjà vu of the worst kind. Though she tries to rationalize and ignore her gut instincts, she fears her stalker is back. Doing everything she can to protect the people she loves, she risks her own safety to bring an end to a diabolical game of cat and mouse.

That’s about all I can say regarding the plot without giving the story away. The suspense in CONVERGENCE built slowly but didn’t really gain momentum until halfway through. If it wasn’t for the fact that I wanted to complete the book for review purposes, I probably would have given up before reaching the halfway mark.

A major issue I had with the book was the format in which it was written. Ms. Yttrup jumps back and forth between the years 2009, 2010, and 2017; and from two different character’s POV. Many times, I felt as if I was coming in during the middle of a scene, since the characters were talking about things I knew nothing about. I had to do a lot of mental juggling to not forget key hints or dangling clues. And then the POV would change again, and I would have to adjust my mindset to a different character and timeframe.

Even with all that said, I am glad I kept reading. I finally found a rhythm about halfway through. But that might have been because I had identified the stalker and was reading with a new perspective.

Unfortunately, I was a little disappointed with the ending. Denilyn went to great lengths to confront her attacker, so I expected a climactic scene where she riddles him with questions and demands answers. But the end came to quickly for me, and I felt many things were left unsaid.

I am giving this book 3 stars because the meat of the book still kept my interest, and I wanted to know the outcome. But the choppiness of the book definitely took away from the pleasure of reading it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

My Review - The Liberty Bride by Marylu Tyndall

5 out of 5 stars

The latest in the Daughters of the Mayflower series, THE LIBERTY BRIDE by Marylu Tyndall is historical/romance at its best!

It’s 1812, England and America are at war, and Emeline Baratt is just trying to get home. While sailing for Baltimore on one of her father’s privateer ships, they are intercepted by the HMS Marauder. Taken captive, along with the rest of the crew, Emeline claims to be a British spy to procure her safety. Between her nursing skills and her artistry, she hopes to stay on the captain’s good side, so she can obtain information that will help American forces. However, the perplexing First Lieutenant Owen Masters is making it difficult for her to keep her feelings in check. His hot and cold behavior towards her, keeps her off balance, and she fears he will find out that she is not the traitor she claims to be.

Owen Marshall is on a mission. With the promise of his own ship in return for information on England’s plan of attack, Owen’s uncle encourages him to infiltrate the British navy. Owen has played his part to the hilt but having American prisoners on board is testing his resolve. Especially, one Emeline Baratt. She’s unlike any woman he’s ever known, but the thought of her betraying America is something he cannot tolerate. Though he tries to put space between them, he can’t seem to get her off his mind.

When Captain Blackwell assigns Emeline, Owen, and two other soldiers to go ashore to discover the strengths and weaknesses of the American forces, both Emeline and Owen have a hard time guarding their truth – that they will do anything to ensure England is defeated. Even if it means sacrificing their hearts in the battle.

THE LIBERTY BRIDE has everything you’ve come to expect from Marylu Tyndall. A heroine with pluck, a hero with a heart, and a seafaring adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat. No one tells a shipboard story like Ms. Tyndall. You can picture the ratlines and sails, hear the creaks and groans of the ship, and taste the salty spray from the turbulent ocean. All while enjoying the romance of two people destined to be together. I applaud the work and research that went in to THE LIBERTY BRIDE, the telling of a story that lines up with history. I also enjoyed the history notes at the back of the book that told the rest of the story.

Touché, Ms. Tyndall! Thank you for giving us another captivating story on the high seas.

I received a free copy of this book fro the author but was under no obligation to post a positive review. This review reflects my own opinions.

My Review - Stratagem by Robin Caroll

4 out of 5 stars

STRATAGEM by Robin Caroll is an enjoyable whodunit, that keeps you on your toes.

Grayson Thibodeaux is a psychologist who uses his skills to set up mind-bending games for corporations looking for team building exercises. He’s good at what he does, so good in fact, his ex-wife’s company hires his team to organize a game that will decide the companies next promotion. But when Grayson’s ex-wife dies during the game, he becomes the main suspect. Though his ex-wife treated him cruelly, Grayson still loved her, but convincing the police of his innocence is proving to be harder than he thought.

I thoroughly enjoyed STRATAGEM. The keen character development enriched an already suspenseful story, and the police interviews were a great way to get to know each person involved. The escape room/team building format made for a unique setting and an intriguing plot. Even though there was plenty of suspects to choose from, I figured out the killer early in the book, but that did not lessen my enjoyment. Definitely a captivating story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

My Review - Lethal Target by Janice Cantore

4.5 out of 5 stars

LETHAL TARGET – A great follow-up to CRISIS SHOT!

Though it was difficult circumstances that led Police Chief Tess O’Rourke to Rogue’s Hollow, she’s beginning to settle in and think of it as home. Like any small town, it has its quirks, and characters, and local politics, but overall, it’s a close-knit community. That’s why the legalization of pot farms and the possibility of selling marijuana within the city limits is causing turmoil in the sleepy town. However, when a teenager is found dead from what appears to be an opioid overdose, Tess is afraid she has an even bigger problem. Without any leads, and a troublemaker from her past taunting her publicly, the citizens of Rogue’s Hollow begin to question Tess’s ability to police the town properly. When a murder points to Tess as the perpetrator, her career begins to spiral. And if that isn’t enough, her relationship with a fellow police officer has hit the skids because of her unwillingness to commit.

Pastor Oliver Macpherson offers a sympathetic ear and a sounding board while Tess struggles. He knows the death of her father, and her loss of faith in God are stumbling blocks preventing her from moving forward, but also sensitive subjects she doesn’t want to talk about. Navigating a friendship with Tess has its boundaries, but Oliver is willing to wait for her to come around.

Juggling personal, professional, and political turmoil, Tess finds herself questioning everything.

Once again, Janice Cantore uses her experience as a retired police officer to pen a believable, plot driven story. Though LETHAL TARGET can be read as a standalone novel, you’ll learn more about the characters by reading CRISIS SHOT. There are several secondary characters that add to the backbone of the story and the community of Rogue’s Hollow, some you’ll like-some you won’t. My only negative is the Fiction/Romance/Suspense label. There wasn’t enough romance to garner its inclusion. I was even disappointed to find out the relationship that was established in the previous book didn’t make it to this one. Other than that, a good police read for anyone who is interested in the genre.

I received a complimentary copy of LETHAL TARGET from Tyndale Publishing, with no obligations to write a review. My opinions are solely my own. 

My Review - Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse

3 out of 5 stars

THE PATRIOT BRIDE by Kimberley Woodhouse is the perfect book for those who want to immerse themselves in history. Unfortunately, I am not one of those people.

Faith Jackson is willing to do anything for the cause of freedom. Widowed, wealthy, and fearless, she inserts herself in the dangerous practice of passing messages to a spy among the Loyalist. Even though her meetings with Matthew Weber are brief and in the shadows of darkness, she soon feels a spark of interest that surpasses patriotism.

Matthew Weber has put himself in a dangerous position. With friends on both sides of the political tension, he becomes a spy in both camps. Backing the Patriot’s battle for freedom, he must find a way to get messages to their leaders. When Faith becomes his go-between, his heart becomes involved. When the fear of being captured heightens, Matthew worries that the woman he loves is putting herself in danger. Especially when he finds out an admirer of hers is obsessive in his pursuit for Faith’s affections.

As I said earlier, THE PATRIOT BRIDE is loaded with historical information and references. Since I’m not a history buff, the number of pages dedicated to these facts bogged down the story. I liked the characters of Faith and Matthew, and the references to George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Paul Revere, and Clayton’s interactions with Faith always made me smile. Even so, I am not a fan of novels that are labeled “romance” when the main characters are kept at arms-length for the majority of the book. That being said, if your interest in history is more than the average reader, you will enjoy THE PATRIOT BRIDE.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

My Review - Reckless by Marylu Tyndall

4.5 out of 5 stars

Being the best female pirate isn’t enough for Captain Reena Charlisse. She has two goals she’s determined to achieve—find the Fountain of Youth and find the love of her life. The only problem . . . she might have to sacrifice one for the other.

Leaving his pirate life behind, Fredrick Carlton has chosen to follow God and walk away from the only woman he’s ever loved. Knowing he needs to put as much distance between Reena and himself, Fredrick boards a Royal Navy ship where he can preach the Word of God to the men on board. But joining the Royal Navy doesn’t stop Reena’s pursuit. She “liberates” Frederick from his ship, which labels him a deserter. Wanting to set the record straight, Fredrick demands Reena take him to Kingston, Jamaica where he can plead his case. Reena agrees to take him back, but not before she finds the elusive Fountain of Youth. 

Fredrick battles the feelings he still has for Reena, knowing he cannot serve God and live the life they once shared. But Reena is convinced if Fredrick co-captains her ship long enough, he will once again be lured by the adventures and excitement of sailing the high seas as the pirates they are. And when she finds the Fountain of Youth, they will be able to live their love for eternity.

As always, I couldn’t wait for another installment in the Legacy of the King’s Pirates series. With each generation the adventure grows. Though the story was focused on Reena, I enjoyed the character of Fredrick “Freddy” more. In fact, Reena was downright irritating at times with her self-centered behavior. She insisted she loved Freddy, and wanted to recapture what they once shared, but her obsession with the Fountain of Youth and her lust for eternal youth, constantly derailed her promise to return Freddy to Kingston. On the other hand, I sympathized with Freddy. Even though he felt the pull to his former life, and knew pirate blood ran through his veins, his devotion to God helped him set his course to what was good, and right, and pure. Nevertheless, even with my frustration with Reena, I loved the story. I loved the characters. I loved the adventure. Marylu Tyndall paints scenes that are so vivid—you smell the salt air, feel the roll of the ship’s deck beneath your feet, and imagine the juggle foliage that is the perfect setting for Reena and Freddy to reignite the relationship they once shared. 

Reckless is the perfect blend of romance, adventure, and redemption. The only reason that prevents me from giving RECKLESS 5-stars, is the pacing. The back and forth between Reena and Freddy became a little redundant. But other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to post a review. 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. 

My Review - Before I Saw You by Amy K. Sorrells

4 out of 5 stars

BEFORE I SAW YOU by Amy K. Sorrells was moving, thought provoking, and genuine, making for an emotional but fulfilling read.

Jaycee Givens’ life has been a difficult one. Loss, betrayal, and tragedies have plagued her, even before reaching adulthood. Even so, with her overcoming spirit, she refuses to give up on life, even if at times the obstacles before her seem insurmountable.

Jaycee has a unique circle of friends she has come to rely on and is making the best of her lowly situation. But when Jaycee literally stumbles into Gabe Corwin, a new guy in town, her daily life slowly changes. There is a spark between Jaycee and Gabe, and soon a friendship forms. However, when Gabe finds out Jaycee is pregnant, she feels his judgment in the way he keeps his distance. Gabe eventually apologizes for his behavior and soon becomes one of Jaycee’s strongest allies. Even though Jaycee has the support of her little community of friends, she realizes she has a very difficult decision to make-keep her child or give him the chance she never had.

BEFORE I SAW YOU draws you in, even if the pacing seems a bit slow. Amy Sorrell allows the story to build with an unhurried momentum which may not sit well with all audiences, but I think it allows the reader to absorb Jaycee’s story at a thought-provoking tempo. I would recommend BEFORE I SAW YOU to anyone who enjoys stories about real life without a lot of sugarcoating or frills.

Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.

My Review - Fearful Symmetry by C.F. Dunn

5 out of 5 stars

FEARFUL SYMMETRY – Just a few adjectives to start. WOW! Exhilarating! Suspenseful! Edge of your seat fiction! If you like a story that transports and completely draws you in, you need to read The Secret of the Journal series.

Though this is not my genre of choice-I’m not usually drawn to fiction that departs from reality- this series is the exception. I actually started the series by reading book two – Death Be Not Proud. I agreed to review book two for the publishing house not knowing the series had a Sci-Fi bent to it. So, I read with skepticism but that quickly changed. I was absolutely mesmerized! Wanting to find out more back story regarding the characters, I read book one. Again, I was completely blown away by the suspense, the intrigue, and the imagination of the author. I bought in to Matthew’s situation hook, line, and sinker.

So as not to give away the intricacies of the story, I will only say that C.F. Dunn birthed an exceptional series, hitting all the criteria. The chemistry between Matthew and Emma is off the charts. The intrigue-not knowing what is going to happen to them-is compelling. The suspense of not knowing when Matthew and Emma would finally let down their guard had me reading late into the night. Though I would’ve liked the series to continue, FEARFUL SYMMETRY provided for me a satisfying conclusion. It left me with peace regarding the characters and their future.

The Secret of the Journal series is escapism at its best!

My Review - Just Let Go by Courtney Walsh

4 out of 5 stars

JUST LET GO by Courtney Walsh is the typical opposites attract story but wrapped in a unique package.

Quinn Collins has been in a holding pattern for the last twenty years. That’s when her mother left town and never came back. However, when she buys the flower shop her mom once owned, and enters a floral contest her mom now judges, Quinn hopes to prove to her mother and herself, that she’s worthy of her mother’s approval. A small-town girl who has never ventured far from home, Quinn’s life is simple and quiet, but that is all about to change.

Grady Benson is a hotshot skier who can’t seem to stay out of trouble. He’s wild and irresponsible, and about to lose his spot on the Olympic team. When he gets into trouble in the small town of Harbor Pointe, Grady figures he’ll pay a fine and be on his way, but the judge has something else in mind. Community service. With only a few competitions left where he can qualify for the Olympic team, and him stuck in the little no-nothing town, Grady feels his chances slipping away.

When Grady is assigned to work with Quinn on the local Winter Carnival, they immediately butt heads. Quinn wants nothing to do with his arrogant, full-of-himself ways, and Grady thinks she’s too up tight for her own good. But, the more time they spend together, the more Quinn sees Grady’s softer side, and the more Grady sees an attractive, caring woman hiding behind a tough-as-nails façade. Though it takes a little time, eventually they come to realize their feelings for each other are genuine. Even so, they never really get a chance to explore those feelings before Quinn discovers Grady has lied to her.

With a lot of back and forth, and push and pull, JUST LET GO is a book you can’t put down for long. I found myself putting it down then picking it right back up again because I wanted to see how Quinn and Grady would navigate the latest obstacle they allowed to come between them. The townspeople of Harbor Pointe and Quinn’s family were lively, providing a colorful backdrop to the story. And with a few unexpected twists, JUST LET GO kept me engaged from start to finish.

I received a complimentary copy of JUST LET GO from Tyndale House Publishers.

NEW RELEASE - REUNION

Proud to announce my newest release.

REUNION is available on Amazon, Kindle, and tamaratilley.com

Click on the link to the right to read the first two chapters.

My Review - The Captured Bride

4 out of 5 stars

THE CAPTURED BRIDE, the next installment in The Daughters of the Mayflower series, was an adventurous ride I thoroughly enjoyed.

Mercy Lytton is no ordinary woman. Raised among the Mohawks, and gifted with extremely good eyesight, she is chosen to be a scout on a dangerous journey. She’s not thrilled to be a part of the ruse to move valuable cargo to a distant fort, but having to work with traitor, Elias Dubois, is almost more than she can handle.

Elias Dubois is sentenced to death. But, when offered a deal in exchange for his freedom, he teams with Captain Matthew Prinn, and Mercy Lytton to move French gold under the guise of being a family who is relocating. Immediately, he clashes with Mercy. She is an anomaly he just can’t figure out. However, his growing attraction to her begins to monopolize his thoughts. He knows Mercy only sees him as a traitor, and a man unworthy of her attention, but if she only knew his deepest secret, maybe she would see the man he wants to be.

THE CAPTURED BRIDE has a little of everything. Romance, drama, tension, twists, tragedy, and adventure. The interaction between Mercy and Elias, is electric from day one, and Matthew was a wonderful father figure. All the characters were skillfully crafted, allowing you to feel their hurts and their triumphs. I loved Mercy’s character because she was sharp and independent, but vulnerable, too. Her struggle to come to grips with her past, while trying to figure out her future, made Mercy a great heroine.

If you romance, colored with action and adventure, you’ll enjoy THE CAPTURED BRIDE.

“I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.”

My Review - My Heart Belongs in Glenwood Springs, Colorado

4 out of 5 stars

MY HEART BELONGS IN GLENWOOD SPRINGS, COLORADO was an enjoyable read, though heart-wrenching at times.

Millie Cooper is a professional. So, when she is asked to be a nursemaid to a woman who never approved of her station in life, by a man that told her she wasn’t good enough for his brother, she accepts the job offer, no matter the personal toll it is sure to take on her.

I couldn’t believe the premise for this book. How could any woman see to the needs of a family that treated her so poorly? But that’s exactly what Millie does. She is strong, intelligent, capable, and intends on doing what she was hired to do. Only a saint would be a mid-wife to her ex-fiancés pregnant wife. But Millie seeks God’s guidance and feels this is what He would have her to do. Who could have imaged where this would lead? Certainly not Millie.

This story is full of twists and turns. Ups and downs. Struggles and heartache. An 1800s romance set in Colorado that is sure to please.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

My Review - Shadows of Hope by Georgiana Daniels

5 out of 5 stars

SHADOWS OF HOPE by Georgiana Daniels is a griping tale of love lost, love found, and love deceived. Written with a healthy dose of realism—which I absolutely love—SHADOWS OF HOPE does not sugarcoat or whitewash the effects the loss of communication and the sin of self-centeredness can have on a marriage, nor does it take a messy situation and tie it up in a nice neat bow.

Marissa suspects her husband is having an affair. Knowing she isn’t without fault for the distance in her marriage, she sets out to make things right. Colin is having an affair because he can’t take the pressure at home. With Marissa laser-focused on conceiving, their marriage has spiraled to the point of perfunctory sex in order to get pregnant. Kaitlyn knows her relationship with her professor is wrong on many levels, but what she feels for Colin is worth the risk, until she gets pregnant.

What transpires is a cruel twist of fate. Marissa befriends Kaitlyn when she shows up at the pregnancy center Marissa manages. Feeling lost and alone, Kaitlyn’s relationship with Marissa becomes a lifeline. When Colin finds out Kaitlyn is pregnant, he’s devastated, knowing it will destroy Marissa and jeopardize his chance at tenure, but his desire to be a father also makes it that he wants to be involved with Kaitlyn’s pregnancy. When Colin finally tells Marissa about his affair, and that he and his mistress have conceived a child, Marissa is shattered. Finding out it is Kaitlyn, is beyond anything she ever expected.

SHADOWS OF HOPE is absolutely compelling. As the reader, you know everything that is going on behind the scenes, and the angst you feel builds, knowing Marissa and Kaitlyn are going to be devastated when they find out what they share besides friendship is the same man. I give the author credit for pointing out shortcomings in each of the characters, not just placing the blame on Colin, and even going as far as to portray Colin as a man with a compassionate heart, even if it is skewed. SHADOWS OF HOPE shows how easily people can fall away from their faith when they take even a single compromising step, and how we justify sin when we want what we know is wrong. Marissa put her desire for a child before her husband. Colin put his needs of fulfillment before the needs of his wife. And Kaitlyn justified a sexual relationship because she thought it was based on love. SHADOWS OF HOPE explores infidelity, deception, jealousy, adultery, selfishness, the need for communication in marriage, pressure from outside sources and how it can damage a marriage, etc., etc. The ending might be unsatisfying to some, but it is realistic. A heavy subject, but definitely a story that needs to be told, prompting readers to evaluate what compromises they might be making in their own lives.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

My Review - The Pirate Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo

4 out of 5 stars

This is only the second book I’ve read from Kathleen Y’Bardo, but I don’t think it will be my last. Anyone looking for a seafaring adventure, or are a fan of MaryLu Tyndall’s, Legacy of the King’s Pirates series, you will want to pick up THE PIRATE BRIDE.

Maribel Cordoba is only twelve when she finds herself aboard Jean-Luc’s privateering vessel. With all family members dead, Jean-Luc makes it his duty to see her safe to her destination. Maribel proves herself to be quite seaworthy and is often found in the riggings overhead acting as a lookout, always with a book in hand. Her tomboyish antics endear her to the men aboard the ship, and her sense of adventure feeds her boldness. But when all is lost, Jean-Luc morns the death of the little girl he longed to protect.

Maribel Cordoba doesn’t remember much about her childhood. Rescued at sea, she has spent the last twelve years in an orphanage with only spotty memories from her youth. The Mother Superior assures Maribel her memories are but dreams, but Maribel feels a pull toward the ocean, and the ships she sees sailing in and out of the tiny inlet below the orphanage.

I really enjoyed THE PIRATE BRIDE. Even though it is book two in a series, I enjoyed it as a stand-alone novel. The characters were rich and intriguing. I relished Maribel’s feisty side, and Jean-Luc was dashing and quite the gentleman privateer. The secondary characters rounded out the cast, with charm and charisma that ran deeper than first glance. And the villain was well written, making the reader hungry for his just punishment. There are some twists I did not expect, and I would have liked to see more story devoted to the reunion of Maribel and Jean-Luc, but that did not interfere with my enjoyment. It would have only enhanced it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

My Review - My Heart Belongs in Castle Gate, Utah

3 out of 5 stars

MY HEART BELONGS IN CASTLE GATE, UTAH, was a sweet book with genuine characters. Though the pacing was a little slow for my liking, overall, the story kept me interested.

Schoolteacher, Leanna McKee is trying to find her purpose. Widowed, and feeling guilty she wasn’t the wife she should have been, Leanna is convinced she needs to leave the town of Castle Gate if she hopes to have a fresh start in life. But, when asked to help a local Greek family-by walking their children to and from school-Leanna agrees, and is quickly smitten by the Pappas family. Maria and Teddy are adorable children, and their Uncle Alex is sweet, and kind, and quite handsome. Alex’s father and mother are very traditional and set in their way, but gracious to her nonetheless. Though Leanna feels an immediate attraction for Alex, he is Greek, and she is not.

Alex Pappas is a hardworking man who tries to stay positive, and does all he can for his family. Also widowed, he feels he has a unique understanding about the guilt and pain Leanna McKee feels over the loss of her husband. When he asks her to oversee his niece and nephew, he looks forward to their short conversations and makes sure their paths cross often. Soon, he is inviting her to his family restaurant, merely as a thank you for all she is doing. But, his family sees that his interest in Leanna runs deep. Knowing that social lines exist between Greeks and Americans, his family discourage him from perusing Leanna. But his heart cannot be so easily swayed.

The township of Castle Gate is unhappy with the influx of Greek immigrants living in their city, taking their jobs. Tension is thick. Threats are made. Accidents happen. Leanna fears what will happen to Alex or his family if they pursue a relationship. When direct threats are made, she decides to leave Castle Gate, even if she’s leaving her heart behind.

MY HEART BELONGS IN CASTLE GATE, UTAH, was enjoyable to read, but at times I found the constant inner voice of Leanna and Alex a little redundant. We know early on how they feel and what they struggle with, but their inner conflict is rehashed several times throughout the book. I think the parts I found most distracting, was when Leanna lamented her dead husband, his vices, and the way she treated him. I couldn’t tell if it was self-loathing that plagued her, or if she really had been that belligerent to him. During these segments, I found myself straddling the fence regarding my feelings for Leanna. It almost made her feel unlikable. But Alex, was easy to like and root for. You saw the struggle he had to be respectful of his parents and their traditions, but also wanting to be his own man.

Overall, an enjoyable book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

OUTSTANDING NOVELS FROM TAMARA LEIGH!

AN OVERWHELMING 5 OUT OF 5 STARS

Two amazing series from author Tamara Leigh, THE AGE OF FAITH SERIES and THE FUED are absolutely incredible!

I’m not going to review the books individually, because I read both series so fast (nine books in all), I have too many stories buzzing around in my head; I would not do them the justice they deserve. Needless to say, it was an incredible journey filled with knights and ladies, castles and baronies, romance, intrigue, and tragedy.

The true center of THE AGE OF FAITH SERIES is the Wulfrith family. Baron Wulfrith, Lady Beatrix, Lady Gaynor, Sir Abel, and Sir Everard, these are the main characters, and each has a book devoted to them. Everything about their stories captivated me, including the alluring covers. Currently, there are six books in this series, with the seventh to be released in Winter 2018. I can’t wait!

The FUED series tells the tale of three noblemen: the Baron of Godsmere, the Baron of Blackwood, and the Baron of Emberly, and their family feud that spans twenty-five years. The King wants an end to the feud, so he demands that the families inter-marry, creating bonds instead of rivals. Begrudgingly, the families follow the King’s command, and the stories that unfold keep you turning page after page.

My genre of preference is usually contemporary pieces. I’m not one for Regency era, Amish, or fantasy, so I don’t generally give period pieces my attention. However, a blogger I follow and respect (relzreviewz.com), showcased books by Tamara Leigh, on more than one occasion, so I decided to give them a try. After reading, THE UNVEILING from THE AGE OF FAITH SERIES, and THE BARON OF GODSMERE from THE FUED SERIES, I was hooked, and immediately bought the other seven books that completed these two series. Each story transported me to a dark but magical era. Passion and pride, rivals and rogues, deception and dalliances. These series are escapism at its best! Exactly what I look for in a book. Thank you, Ms. Leigh, for an incredible journey.

My Review - 12 Days at Bleakly Manor by Michelle Griep

3 out of 5 stars

12 DAYS AT BLEAKLY MANOR was an interesting read, but not altogether original. Besides the love story between Clara Chapman and Benjamin Lane, the overall premise reminds me of the 1976 movie, Murder by Death, written by Neil Simon. 

It’s Christmas Eve in 1850s London. Several eccentric characters are summoned to Bleakly Manor with a promise. Whoever stays twelve days with receive a prize that will change their lives. Clara Chapman is promised five hundred pounds. Since her ex-fiancé ran off with her family fortune, receiving such a sum of money to care for her, and her ailing aunt would be a Christmas miracle. However, once she arrives at Bleakly Manor, she is stunned to see Benjamin Lane, the man that left her standing at the altar while he ran off with her family’s funds and embezzled from Blythe Shipping.

Benjamin Lane is shocked when he is the recipient of a valuable proposition. All he has to do is spend twelve days in Bleakly Manor. With nothing to lose, he agrees. When he shows up, he sees Clara Chapman, the woman who ignored him for the past nine months. 

Along with the other guests at Bleakly Manor, Clara and Benjamin are committed to staying until they receive their promised due. As the days drag on, the guest list dwindles. Some by accidents, others because they feel they found what they were looking for and had no reason to stay longer. As for Clara and Ben, they discover the difference between truths and lies—discoveries that could change their futures forever.

12 DAYS AT BLEAKLY MANOR was a little too erratic for me. Other than Clara and Benjamin, the other characters beckoned to Bleakly Manor were crazy and hard to get attached to. The last fifty pages held enough excitement to keep me reading, and the bazaar twist at the end added some originality to what would’ve been considered a predictable ending. Though 12 DAYS AT BLEAKLY MANOR was not my cup of tea, those who enjoy quirky characters might find themselves more engaged then I was. However, I did like the packaging of this novel. The tattered pages and pseudo dustcover was very attractive and added old-world charm. 

“I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.”