Sabotaged by Dani Pettrey, Book review

• Series: Alaskan Courage (Book 5)
• Paperback: 336 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (February 3, 2015)
• ISBN-13: 978-0764211966
• Also available in KINDLE format

SYNOPSIS:


Finally Returned Home, Reef McKeena
Finds His Beloved Alaska Facing Its Greatest ThreatGrowing up, goody-two-shoes Kirra Jacobs and troublemaker Reef McKenna were always at odds. Now, working together as search-and-rescue for Alaska's arduous Iditarod race, a growing attraction seems to be forcing aside old arguments. Then Reef catches Kirra sneaking from camp in the middle of the night. 

Kirra's uncle, a musher in the race, has disappeared. Kirra and Reef quickly track the man, but what they discover is harrowing: Frank's daughter has been kidnapped. Kirra and Reef, along with the entire McKenna family, are thrown into a race to stop a shadowy villain who is not only threatening a girl's life--but appears willing to unleash one of the largest disasters Alaska has ever seen. 


My thoughts:

From the Winner of the 2014 Daphne du Maurier Award for Inspirational Romantic Suspense, Sabotaged is a book you will want to check if you are looking for something to read and relax with!

Dani Pettrey delivers a tale of romance, true love, danger and intrigue and a reminder that God's promises are an undeniable reality in her latest novel. 
You will learn much about the Iditarod, its organization and the many volunteers who dedicate their time and skills to make this amazing race safe yet exciting! Amongst those are our protagonists Kirra Jacobs and Reef McKenna, both members of SAR (Search and Rescue), a vital part of the race as teams and mushers depend on their skills when lost or hurt.

Dangerous times begins when Kirra's uncle disappears then her cousin turns up missing and is believed kidnapped during the race. Both rescuers and the rest of the Reef family are soon involved in discovering why the two young people are being tracked by an assassin.

Heroes, villains and dark secrets mingle with a reminder that when you take the time to listen God will always show you the right path.

After enjoying Shattered  this past year I knew I would enjoy Pettrey' skillful storytelling and I was not disappointed! Entertaining and written with a special eye to details, I appreciate the subtle Christian reminders making this a read for all ages.

5 Stars!


Meet the Author:

A wife, homeschooling Mum and author, Dani Pettrey writes inspirational romantic suspense and she is a huge fan of dark chocolate (my kind of gal!). She loves traveling and the great outdoors (something you quickly realize when reading her novels!).

For more information check her website (HERE)


Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book courtesy of BETHANY HOUSE as part of the series promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

The Christmas Cat by Melody Carlson, Book review

• Hardcover: 176 pages
• Publisher: Revell (September 9, 2014)
• ISBN-13: 978-0800719661
• Also available in KINDLE format

SYNOPSIS:


After years abroad, Garrison Brown returns home to Vancouver to build a new life. When his beloved grandmother passes away a few weeks before Christmas, Garrison goes to her house to sort out her belongings, including six cats who need new homes. While Garrison hopes to dispense with the task quickly, his grandmother's instructions don't allow for speed. She has left Garrison with some challenging requirements for the future homes of her furry friends--plus a sizeable monetary gift for the new owners. Garrison's job is to match the cats with the right owners without disclosing the surprise gift. Along the way, he may just meet someone who can make him stay.

Humorous and heartwarming, this latest Christmas story from bestselling author Melody Carlson is the perfect gift for pet lovers and anyone in whose heart Christmas holds a special place.


My thoughts:

Anyone familiar with The Christmas Wish and The Christmas Pony will remember Melody Carlson's special touch of magic when it comes to the Season. This author writes wholeheartedly and brings a message of love, hope and yes, something magical. 

And if like me, you are an animal lover, you will find her story endearing for this one is about a familiar pet, a feline! And just look at the cover and you will know this is not just another cat, but The Cat! 

Returning from his missionary field in Uganda, Garrison faces the loss of his grandmother only to be told by her attorney she trusted him to find a suitable adoptive family for each of her cats, all six of them!

There is only one problem with the scheme devised by his beloved Grandmother: Garrison is highly allergic to cats and living in her home until such families can be found is tantamount to hell on earth. Very shortly, we find that Garrison resorts to wearing latex gloves, a mask and is considering a hazmat suit to boot!
But despite it all, Garrison founds himself caring for the felines, each of them with its endearing personality, including Harry, a Maine Coon with striking clear eyes who seems to gaze right through him. 

Melody Carlson's sense of humour reveals itself as you go on reading the story which is not only the perfect Christmas story, particularly for any cat lover, but sports just the right amount of introspection, a touch of romance and is easy to read!
Expect a clear message, just in time for the Season while reading this one in front of a good fire and sipping a cuppa!

A heartfelt thank you to the author for providing great entertainment and to Revell, for once again presenting it in such a beautiful format!

5 Stars!

(Photo source HERE: I think you love the snapshots)

Meet the Author:

Melody Carlson has written around 200 books for teens, women and children. That's a lot of books, but mostly she considers herself a "storyteller." Her books range from serious issues like schizophrenia (Finding Alice) to lighter topics like house-flipping (A Mile in My Flip-Flops) but most of the inspiration behind her fiction comes right out of real life. 

Her young adult novels (Diary of a Teenage Girl, TrueColors etc.) appeal to teenage girls around the world. Her annual Christmas novellas become more popular each year. She's won a number of awards (including the Rita and Gold Medallion) and some of her books have been optioned for film/TV.

Visit her website (HERE)

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from BAKER REVELL as part of it's promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

What Follows After by Dan Walsh, Book review

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Revell (April 1, 2014)
• ISBN-13: 978-0800721206

SYNOPSIS:

In October 1962, Colt Harrison and his little brother, Timmy, hatched a plan. They would run away from their Florida home, head for their aunt's house in Savannah, Georgia, and refuse to come home until their parents got back together. But things go terribly, terribly wrong. Colt's mother and father must come to grips with years of neglect and mistrust in order to recover their beloved sons, their love for one another, and their broken marriage.

In this emotional story, Dan Walsh takes readers on a journey to rediscover the things that matter most in life--love, truth, and family.

My thoughts:

A gifted author, Dan Walsh brings us yet again a great novel filled with family values and Christian teaching!
For those of you who remember those times, What Follows After is painted against the Cuban missile crisis and with his usual equanimity, Dan weaves compelling characters and a thought provoking plot in and out of blind alleys leading his readers finally to the explosive ending! 

Misunderstandings, lies and deceptions disrupt the lives of an otherwise normal Florida family. On the surface, it would seem all is well for the Harrisons but behind closed doors, they cannot keep up the travesty. 
Eleven year old Colt and his little brother loathe the troubling atmosphere in their house and decide to run away.
Their goal is to travel by bus to a favourite aunt and uncle's home but things go horribly wrong when little Timmy is kidnapped at a rest stop.

For the rest of the story, you will have to beg, borrow or purchase your own copy Folks!

Dan Walsh is a marvelous storyteller and his stories reflect an emotional grasp of life itself readers appreciate from his obvious success! 

A riveting novel to be sure, with poignant moments and a few lessons to boot about what truly matters, What follows After is nothing but perfection! 
Don't miss it!

5 Stars!

About the Author:

Dan Walsh is the bestselling author of 9 novels, published by Revell and Guideposts, including The Unfinished Gift, The Reunion and The Dance. He has won 3 ACFW Carol Awards, 2 Selah Awards, and twice his novels have been named as finalists for RT Reviews Inspirational Novel of the Year.

For those who haven't read Dan's books, reviewers often compare him to Nicholas Sparks and Richard Paul Evans. His latest project is partnering with Gary Smalley on a 4-book fiction series. The first book, The Dance, released in April 2013. It hit both the CBA and ECPA bestsellers list. The 2nd novel, The Promise, released in September. 

Dan served as a pastor for 25 years and now writes full time. He and his wife Cindi have been married 36 years and have 2 grown children, both married, and 1 grandson. 

Visit his website (HERE).


Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book courtesy of REVELL, a Division of Baker Publishing Group as part of this book promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

Summer Of Joy by Ann H. Gabhart, Book review

Hollyhill Series, Book 3

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Revell (February 15, 2008)
• ISBN-13: 978-0800731700
• Also available in Hardback and KINDLE formats
• 
  

SYNOPSIS:


For Jocie Brooke, the summer of 1964 certainly was eventful, but it's nothing compared to what's coming to Hollyhill, Kentucky, and the Brooke family next. The past is coming to call, threatening to destroy the relationships that everyone thought were so strong. Two people--one thought to be gone for good and the other no one's ever heard of--are making their way to the small town. And it promises trouble for everyone.

This complex and beautifully written story is the perfect conclusion to The Heart of Hollyhill series. With true-to-life family drama, refreshing humor, and characters readers have come to love like dear friends, Summer of Joy will delight Gabhart's fans.

My thoughts:


Scent Of Lilacs, Book 1 in The Heart of Hollyhill Series (see review HERE) was a nostalgic reminder of the best of the Sixties, with a little of the Mayberry atmosphere, each character ready to tug at your heart with their wholesomeness just like Opie, Aunt Bee and Sheriff Andy.

Following Orchard of Hope, (Book 2 in the Series now sitting on my night table ready to be enjoyed and reviewed in the near future) Summer of Joy was as I envisioned and the perfect tie for the end of the Series or is it? Ann, shall we look for Jocie in College or married perhaps in the future?

The Holiday Season is everything the Brooke family hoped for. Life is good for all in Hollyhill, KY and Pastor David and Leigh have finalized their plans for the future: Weddings bells will soon be ringing in their little town and Jocie will now have a complete family together with sister Tabitha, baby Stephen Lee and Scriptures spouting Aunt Love!

But first Jocie will have to weather a few hiccups in English class. Her teacher Mr. Creep, uh, Mr. Hammond, has it in for her it seems and Jocie is praying really hard the school year will soon be over. 

Jupiterian Wes remains Jocie's best friend and confidante but when someone from the past comes to claim his love, Jocie fears she might loose her adoptive motorcycle riding Grand'Pa.
Meanwhile DeeDee, Jocie's long estranged Mum, faces the ultimate challenge and must come to terms with the past.

Book 3 may be read as a stand alone thanks to Ann's expertise in reminding us here and there of her characters past exploits. 
Her warm heart stories reminds us of simpler times when families were eating and praying together, when a young girl kept journals and small town life was far remote from hot and cold wars and the teetering of an all nuclear conflict.

Family values and a solid faith remains Ann's strong points in these endearing stories, guaranteed to leave you with a good feeling and perhaps for some of us longing memories.
At times buoyant, others wistful, her plot line remains consistent with those beliefs and when all is revealed in the end, grants us the sweet entertainment we have learned to expect from Ann H. Gabhart.

4 stars!


Meet the Author:

Ann H. Gabhart caught the writing bug at the age of ten and has been writing ever since. She's published over twenty-five books for both adults and young adults. Scent of Lilacs, her first inspirational novel, was chosen as a Top Ten Books in Christian Fiction by Booklist magazine. Her first Shaker book, The Outsider, was a finalist for ECPA Christian Fiction Book of the Year and was a Top Pick by Romantic Times Book Review Magazine.

Ann lives on a farm in Kentucky not far from where she was born. She and her husband have three children and nine grandchildren. Ann loves hiking on her farm with her grandkids and her dog, Oscar.

For more on Oscar read (HERE) and for Ann's website see (HERE) and her blog (HERE)

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book courtesy of BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP as part of the book's promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

All Things Hidden by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse, Book review

• 
• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (January 7, 2014)
• ISBN-13: 978-0764211195

SYNOPSIS:

In 1935, Alaska is still a wild frontier, largely unexplored by Americans from the Lower 48. When the New Deal opens up the Matanuska Valley for settlement, Dr. Hillerman and his daughter Gwyn have no idea of the scale of the work before them in providing medical care for an entire new colony. 

After life seemingly turns against him, Dr. Jeremiah Vaughan of Chicago decides to head up and help Dr. Hillerman, whom he had known in his youth. Jeremiah arrives in Alaska full of secrets, but how long will he be able to keep them? 

Award-winning Peterson and Woodhouse have coauthored a marvelous story of love and adventure in the Alaskan frontier. Their characters spring to life against a background of historical events. The faith of the Hillermans and other characters in their exceptional circumstances rings true, and, indeed, they have little else to depend on.

 Readers will enjoy romance and excitement as Gwyn and Jeremiah figure out each other’s intentions and work hard to create a new life in beautiful and demanding Alaska.

(Source Booklist)

My Thoughts:

Drawn against the breathtaking Alaskan scenery at the time of the Matanuska project  'All Things Hidden' opened a scarcely known fact: In 1935, 203 pioneer families arrived in this last frontier valley to carve a new life for themselves.
I don't imagine many people would have known of the colony until Tracie and co author Kimberley released their story. I enjoyed 'the story behind the story' and I could not resist checking the list of the original settlers (HERE).

With dozens of novels to her credit Tracie Peterson needs little introduction. Her writings continues to delight many with her steady blend of love, faith with a little mystery and adventure thrown in for good measure.

Gwyn and her father love their Valley and despite the challenges of this beautiful land, have found a measure of happiness. Gwyn's estranged mother and sister have long departed for greater metropolis, their rather cold and selfish attitude a cloud on the young girl's life. 

Dr. Hillerman cares for all Valley folks, settlers and native alike for decades and prepares himself for the challenging task of doctoring also the new comers. Upon arrival some are discovered sick and not all are happy in their new situation.  A few of the newcomers also resent the nearby native settlement despite receiving a warm welcome and thoughtful gifts.

As with all such projects, there are glitches and concerns are raised particularly with Winter on the horizon. A race to finish the housing necessary for all settlers leaves little time for the Hillermans to enjoy their usual peaceful relationship.

Gwyn does not like changes and wish everything would remain as it was whilst a concerned Dr. Hillerman invites a well known young physician to help him care for the new settlers in addition to his own patients.

However Dr. Jeremiah Vaughan has left rather suddenly his practice in Chicago after his fiancee discovers his medical license has been suspended. He carries his guilt around and fears discovery. His attraction to young Gwyn does not help alleviate his concerns. What will she and her father think when they discover the truth?

The historical background of this particular Depression era, the sweet characters and dramatic plotline were consistent with Tracie's writings praising God and His work in our lives. 
The combined team work of Tracie and co author Kimberley Woodhouse, All Things Hidden provided a light reading if a little predictable,  ideal for the many rainy days we have experienced lately and suited to any age.

4 Stars!


Meet the Authors:

Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than eighty-five novels. Tracie also teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research. She and her family live in Montana.

Visit her website (HERE)

Kimberley Woodhouse is a wife, mother, author, and musician with a quick wit and positive outlook despite difficult circumstances. 
A popular speaker, she's shared at more than 600 venues across the country. Kimberley and her family's story have garnered national media attention for many years, but most recently her family was chosen for ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, The Montel Williams Show, and Discovery Health channel's Mystery ER. Welcome Home: Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy, releases from Tyndale House Publishers September first. 
In addition to her non-fiction, she also writes romantic suspense and children's books. Kimberley lives, writes, and homeschools in Colorado with her husband and two children in their truly "extreme" home. 

Visit her website (HERE)


Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book courtesy of BETHANY HOUSE PUBLISHERS as part of this book promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

A Simple Christmas Wish by Melody Carlson, Book review

• 
  
• Publisher: Revell (September 15, 2013)
• ISBN-13: 978-0800719654

SYNOPSIS:

One girl in need of a home. 

One woman in search of a home for her heart. 

One Christmas where it all seems possible.

Rachel Milligan is caring for her seven-year-old niece, Holly, at her home in Chicago when she receives devastating news: Holly's parents have been killed in a plane crash. Because Rachel is Holly's only known relative, she assumes that she will be her beloved niece's guardian. However, custody is awarded to Lydia, a distant aunt who happens to be Amish. Just a week before Christmas, Rachel takes Holly to the Amish community in the hopes of persuading Aunt Lydia to relinquish custody. Instead, Lydia sets out to teach Holly to live according to the Amish way. As family secrets emerge and old wounds are healed, Rachel realizes that she will do whatever it takes to ensure that Holly has the loving family she needs.

Combining an Amish family saga with the anticipation of Christmas cheer and the promise of a budding romance, this newest Christmas story from beloved author Melody Carlson is sure to please.

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

Here are my thoughts:

For those of you familiar with The Christmas Pony Melody Carlson's latest Christmas story brings once again a wholesome offering for the Season! 
There is something gratifying in holding Melody's novels, each cover beautifully illustrated and featuring raised letters, the synopsis an indication this is just the sort of novel you can and will share in all probability with everyone! She writes with her heart like any good storyteller!

A stirring tale of a small child who loses both parents to a tragedy during the Christmas season only to find out the aunt who is taking care of her must give her up to a whole unknown branch of the family! 

There has been many stories written about the Amish but this has a twist! How far will someone go to keep someone they love?

For Rachel who has lost her brother and his young wife to an airplane crash, the reading of their will brings a bitter twist to her hastily revised plans for the future. According to the legal document she must relinquish Holly to the little girl's Amish aunt...

Melody Carlson weaves a touching story of hope and love mingled with despair and even anger, drawn against the plain Amish world. 

A lighthearted tale of bridges built across two worlds and a simple Christmas wish...

You'll enjoy this one tucked in by the fire with a cuppa! 

4 stars!

About the Author:

Melody Carlson has written around 200 books for teens, women and children. That's a lot of books, but mostly she considers herself a "storyteller." 

Her books range from serious issues like schizophrenia (Finding Alice) to lighter topics like house-flipping (A Mile in My Flip-Flops) but most of the inspiration behind her fiction comes right out of real life. Her young adult novels (Diary of a Teenage Girl, True Colors etc.) appeal to teenage girls around the world. 

Her annual Christmas novellas become more popular each year. She's won a number of awards (including the Rita and Gold Medallion) and some of her books have been optioned for film/TV. 

Carlson has two grown sons and makes her home in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and yellow Lab dog.

Visit her website (HERE)

I received a copy of this title from BAKER/REVELL to review . I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.