Tell Tale Book Reviews

Book Review - Unknown Threat by Lynn H. Blackburn

4/12/2021

Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Unknown Threat
Defend And Protect book 1
by Lynn H. Blackburn

-From Goodreads-

US Secret Service Special Agent Luke Powell is lucky to be alive. Three of his fellow agents have died in unusual circumstances in the past ten weeks. Luke is devastated by the loss of his friends and colleagues, and his inability to locate the killer feels like a personal failure. He's an expert at shielding others, but now the protectors are in need of protection.

FBI Special Agent Faith Malone is driven to succeed and confident in her ability to solve every case she's assigned. She's been put in charge of the investigation into the unprecedented attacks, and with Luke's life in danger, the stakes have never been higher. But it's hard to know how to fight back when you don't know who the enemy is.

As more agents are targeted, Luke and Faith will have to work together to bring a killer to justice and prevent any more names from joining their fallen brothers and sisters on the Secret Service Wall of Honor.

ISBN-13: 9780800737955

Can they solve this case before it's too late?

Ever read a book where you have a dozen theories as to whodunit and why, and you are proven right in the end, but you're proven wrong? Unknown Threat was a spine-tingling page-turner of a novel that did just that. Seriously, I don't think I got a breath in edgewise, Lynn H. Blackburn had me riveted from the first page.

This Book received a 5 Bark rating.

Lynn H. Blackburn

Author Website

Unknown Threat is the first book in Lynn H. Blackburn's brand new Defend And Protect series and if the succeeding books are as good as this one was I'll be in a seventh heaven of action-packed romantic suspense. Have I mentioned how much I enjoyed it? LOL!

I had the best time trying to figure things out alongside Faith and Luke and I think I can say that Unknown Threat is probably my favorite Lynn H. Blackburn book that I've read...so far, at least... I fully intend on reading every single Defend And Protect book as soon as I can...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Unknown Threat by Lynn H. Blackburn a 5 Bark rating.

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Book Review - The Bent Tree Bride by Denise Weimer

4/12/2021

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Genre:
Historical

The Bent Tree Bride
by Denise Weimer

-From Goodreads-

Susanna Moore can’t get him out of her mind—the learned lieutenant who delivered the commission from Andrew Jackson making her father colonel of the Cherokee Regiment. But the next time she sees Lieutenant Sam Hicks, he’s leading a string of prisoners into a frontier fort, and he’s wearing the garb of a Cherokee scout rather than the suit of a white gentleman.

As both Susanna’s father and Sam’s commanding officer, Colonel Moore couldn’t have made his directive to stay away from his daughter clearer to Sam. He wants a better match for Susanna—like the stuffy doctor who escorted her to Creek Territory. Then a suspected spy forces Moore to rely on Sam for military intelligence and Susanna’s protection, making it impossible for either to guard their heart.

ASIN: B08Q8K5YD6

Can they find love against all the odds?

I have been eagerly anticipating The Bent Tree Bride since first hearing about it some time ago. I've enjoyed every Denise Weimer book that I've read and I knew this one would be no exception. And, trust me, it was definitely no exception.

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Denise Weimer

Author Website

I've always liked the historical realism in Denise Weimer's books. The sights, the sounds, the smells, all of it captured on the printed page. And I particularly enjoy the fact that she writes about lesser known places and events in American history.

The Bent Tree Bride was even more special to me as it shed fictional light on what my own Cherokee ancestors may have experienced. I love family history, always have, so this novel was right up my alley. Not that the author romanticized the culture, she accurately portrayed the negative actions and thoughts of all of the cultures involved, but it was interesting to gain a little insight into the role of the Cherokee in the War of 1812.

The Bent Tree Bride is a little gritty, any book about the frontier in that era will be, but it lent to the authenticity and emotional aspects of the story. Because, this is one book that will truly tug at your emotions as Sam and Susanna struggle with the prejudice, the expectations of family, and trying to find their own place in a world that isn't friendly or forgiving.

Denise Weimer has a real winner with this book. I sincerely enjoyed it and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to fans of realistic historical fiction – with a little romance. Don't miss it!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Bent Tree Bride by Denise Weimer a 4.5 Bark rating.

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I Read With Audra - The Indebted Earl by Erica Vetsch (Review, Interview, Giveaway)

4/11/2021

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Can Captain Wyvern keep his new marriage of convenience all business--
or will it turn into something more?

Captain Charles Wyvern owes a great debt to the man who saved his life--especially since Major Richardson lost his own life in the process. The best way to honor that hero's dying wish is for Wyvern to escort the man's grieving fiance and mother safely to a new cottage home by the sea. But along the way, he learns of another obligation that has fallen on his shoulders: his uncle has died and the captain is now the Earl of Rothwell.

When he and the ladies arrive at his new manor house in Devon, they discover an estate in need of a leader and a gaggle of girls, all wards of the former earl. War the new earl knows; young ladies and properties he does not. Still wishing to provide for the bereaved Lady Sophia Haverly, Charles proposes a marriage of convenience.

Sophie is surprised to find she isn't opposed to the idea. It will help her care for her betrothed's elderly mother, and she's already fallen in love with the wayward girls on the Rothwell estate. This alliance is a chance to repay the captain who has done so much for her care, as well as divert her attention from her grief. When Wyvern returns to his sea commission, she'll stay behind to oversee his property and wards.

It sounds so simple. Until the stalwart captain is arrested on suspicion of smuggling, and Sophie realizes how much he's come to mean to her. Now she'll have to learn to fight, not only for his freedom but also for his love.

Click here to read an excerpt.

My Review

Can they both find a new dream...together?

I have to admit that the title of this book really made me curious. Why would they choose to call it The Indebted Earl? What did he owe and to whom? But, as Spencer Tracy said in the movie Desk Set, “Never assume!” And my initial guesses were quite charmingly proven wrong.

I've now read all of the stories, 3 novels and a Christmas novella, in the Serendipity & Secrets series. I've enjoyed them all, how can you not love an Erica Vetsch story, but I think The Indebted Earl might just be one of my two favorites. It's fun, it's romantic, it's entertaining, and it even has a delightful dash of mystery. What secrets will come to light when the new, and unwilling, earl takes up residence, hmmm?

One thing I'd like to touch on was Erica Vetsch's gentle portrayal of one of my favorite characters, Mamie. If you've ever had a parent or grandparent with age-related memory problems you'll know the pain and joy that can come with it. That's Mamie in this book, but she never lets it stop her and it certainly doesn't prevent those around her from falling for her sweet charm. I know that the hero and heroine are supposed to be your favorite characters but I will confess that Mamie, as well as little Thea, quite stole my heart away.

I loved this third novel in the Serendipity & Secrets series and I was a bit sorry to say goodbye when I turned that last page. This entire Regency era series from Erica Vetsch is well worth reading so don't miss out on The Indebted Earl!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Indebted Earl by Erica Vetsch a 4.5 Bark rating.

An Interview with Erica Vetsch,
Author of The Indebted Earl

Erica Vetsch brings her much beloved Serendipity & Secrets series to a close with the highly anticipated release of The Indebted Earl (Kregel Publications). This latest installment tells the story of Lady Sophia Haverly, the free-spirited and energetic younger sister of Marcus Haverly readers will remember from The Gentleman Spy, and Captain Charles Wyvern, a longtime naval officer trying to find his footing on dry land.

Q: Both Lady Sophia Haverly and Captain Charles Wyvern feel a responsibility to care for someone that is left behind. From where does that sense of duty come?

Lady Sophia’s care of her fiancé’s mother is born out of her love for him. She was also instilled from birth with the social customs of noblesse oblige. As a woman of noble birth, she has an obligation to live up to that nobility by behaving nobly. While her fiancé is at war, he has entrusted her with the care and companionship of his mother, Lady Richardson. Sophie is delighted with the responsibility, because it allows her to demonstrate her love, and it gives her a bit of freedom that living in her older brother’s household would not afford.

Captain Wyvern naturally shoulders responsibility for his ship and his crew. As the leader, everyone under his command is also under his care. This responsibility extends to the dependents of his crew, including the fiancée of his late best friend. Charles feels he bears the blame for his friend’s death, and he must attempt to make some sort of amends. His natural leadership abilities cause him to throw his mantel of responsibility over Lady Sophia, Lady Richardson, the three waifs who wash up on his shore, and the estate and community he’s inherited.

Q: Marcus tries to get Sophie to come back to Haverly Manor with him after her fiancé dies. Would a single woman in her situation during the Regency period have the choice to live on her own?

It would be difficult for an unmarried woman in the Regency era to live on her own. Though Sophie had the financial means to live independently, it would have been considered improper for her to live alone. However, for her to continue to live with Lady Richardson, as her companion and friend, was entirely proper.

Though Marcus is acting out of an abundance of compassion and brotherly concern, Sophie is reluctant to return to his home. She’s reluctant to give up the freedom she’s gained, as well as reluctant to live in a house where everyone will be watching her grieve. She wants to remain at Primrose Cottage with Lady Richardson.

Q: Can you give us a quick lesson in peerage and the hierarchy of society during this time period?

There are five ranks of nonroyal peerage in Britain: duke, marquess, earl, viscount, and baron, in descending order of rank. Most titles were entailed, meaning they passed from father to son, or to the next closest male in the lineage. Often a peer would also hold subsidiary titles at the same time, and his heir would be given use of one of the lesser titles as a courtesy. For example, an earl may also hold the subsidiary title of viscount, and while the earl is alive, his son would use the lesser title of viscount until he came into his inheritance.

The British aristocracy during the Regency period was quite small compared to the entire population of England. The government was divided into the House of Lords (where one must be a member of the peerage to have a seat) and the House of Commons, which was open to any elected official. Land was most often owned by members of the peerage. As the Industrial Revolution gained momentum, more and more commoners became wealthy, which caused some friction. As the wealth of a member of the peerage declined, they might look outside their exclusive set to marry some of that new money.

Q: All of your leading men in the series end up with titles and responsibilities they weren’t expecting. Within moments of arriving at his new home, Charles’s new responsibilities multiply. Can you tell us about the surprise he receives?

Charles finds himself as the guardian to three young girls, sisters who were born on the estate. His uncle, the previous earl, had, for reasons of his own, taken on the orphaned girls as his wards and paid for them to go to boarding school. But at his death, the girls were returned to the estate.

The eldest is nearing womanhood and is a romantic, eager to fall in love and bewildering to Charles. The second is a daredevil, tomboy, and adventuress in whom Charles sees glimpses of his younger self. And the third is a girl barely six summers old, who is fascinated by Charles and imitates him at every turn. He’s not certain which of the girls scares him most, and as a collective, they have that crusty old sea captain shaking in his boots.

Q: Charles is comfortable leading a ship full of men but finds himself in a house full of women. Does the very stern military officer become a softy?

As a captain in the Royal Navy, Charles has been trained to show no softness, no weakness. Conditions were harsh aboard ship, discipline strict, and the dangers of nonconformity very real. In addition, he’s not spent much time around women in general and none at all around girls. He mistrusts their giggling, crying, emotion, and, above all, what he sees as their lack of discipline.

But as he is exposed to them and their bewildering array of emotions, they each in their own way begin to break down those walls of sternness and discipline, teaching him that kindness and love will not make him vulnerable but, instead, make him stronger than he’s ever been.

Q: Will you be sad to let this trilogy—your first Regency series—go? What can readers look forward to next?

There’s such a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction in seeing this series completed, but to answer your question . . . YES! I am so reluctant to let these stories and characters go that I’m bringing some of them back in my new series, the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mysteries!

The first book, The Debutante’s Code, should arrive in the fall of 2021 and features Lady Juliette Thorndike and Bow Street Runner Daniel Swann in a fast-paced tale of intrigue, espionage, and art thievery!

Erica Vetsch

Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling and ACFW Carol Award–winning author. She is a transplanted Kansan now living in Minnesota with her husband, who she claims is both her total opposite and soul mate.

Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum and cheering on her Kansas Jayhawks and New Zealand All Blacks.

A self-described history geek, she has been planning her first research trip to England.

Learn more about Erica Vetsch and her books at www.ericavetsch.com. She can also be found
on Facebook (@EricaVetschAuthor), Instagram (@EricaVetsch) and Pinterest (Erica Vetsch).

It's Time For A Giveaway!

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Movie Review - Colors Of Character (Giveaway)

4/8/2021

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With no formal training, Steve Skipper has broken down walls of racism in the world of fine art. God radically saved Skipper when he was a member of a notorious Birmingham, Alabama, street gang and immediately his life was transformed. Focused on his new-found faith and his talent for painting, Skipper faithfully seized opportunities that only God could have provided and he quickly began gaining notoriety in the sports world for his meticulous artistic style of super-realism. Now, Skipper is continuing his journey, painting the stories of the pioneers of the Civil Rights movement.

Dove.org approved for ages 12 & up!

“Skipper’s story is nothing short of extraordinary.” - CCM Magazine review

“Colors of Character is a remarkable, quality documentary.” - Dove.org review

Buy

My Review

When God says you WILL succeed...

As much as I enjoy documentaries I will admit that Colors Of Character is not my usual choice but I am so glad that I took a chance and stepped out of my norm. It's different from almost every other documentary that I've watched. Not only is it the inspirational story of man who rose above prejudice, beat drug addiction, escaped a brutal gang, and took his amazing art talents to heights he could never have imagined, but he gives all of the praise and glory to God for each step forward.

That was what really captured me about the story of artist Steve Skipper was how he credits God for everything. From the seemingly small things to events that can only be called truly miraculous. In my opinion, a man who can do that is one to be admired.

As far as documentaries go Colors Of Character was well done and I was impressed with the work that went into it. I especially enjoyed the storytelling part of the film. My favorite was Steve Skipper and his straightforward and rather animated way of talking.

If you are looking for a film that for your family to watch together, one that will spark a meaningful conversation, Colors Of Character is the perfect choice. It's both inspirational and faith-filled. And it will encourage you to never give up no matter the circumstances or obstacles you face...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Colors Of Character a 4 Bark rating.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Collide Distribution for providing this product/product information for review.Opinions are 100% my
own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

Enter to win a digital movie code for Colors Of Character
(North America ONLY)

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Just Read Tours - No Unturned Stone by David James Warren (Review, Giveaway)

4/7/2021

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Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for No Unturned Stone by David James Warren,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren, and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing collectively as David James Warren.

The One Rule Is, Don’t Mess With The Past

But he did, and now ex-detective Rembrandt Stone is reaping the devastation of ignoring those words when he traveled back in time to solve the one case that had haunted his dreams.

Yes, he solved the crime. Yes, he saved lives. But Rembrandt returns to find the unthinkable has happened and his life has shattered.

There’s only one answer: break the rule again. Go back in time once more, fix what went wrong, save what went right, and yeah, in his spare time solve another brutal crime.

But it’s not so easy to change time, especially when time turns you into a target. And of course there’s the strong possibility if he goes again, he’ll never get back.

Get ready for your mind to be blown in Book 2 of the time-travel suspense series,
The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone.

Publisher: TriStone Media
Release Date: April 6, 2021
Genre: Time Travel Detective Series

PURCHASE LINKS*:
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Other Books in the Series

CONNECT WITH REMBRANDT STONE:
Website | Instagram

My Review

He changed the past, can he handle his new future?

What if you had the power to travel back in time and fix your mistakes? But what if that 'fix' only made things worse? It's a fascinating thought and it's also the lesson that Rem seems bound to repeat over and over in The True Lies Of Rembrandt Stone series. I once heard that even the most introverted person will indirectly affect the lives of 10,000 people in their lifetime and that's one of the things that No Unturned Stone explores. Can the most minute choices change everything? What will the ripple effect be?

David James Warren, who, if you don't already know is the combined talent of 3 of the best authors, Susan May Warren, James Rubart, and David Warren, has done it again in this story. Captured my imagination, intrigued me, entertained me, and caused me to think, at least a little bit, outside of my self absorbed box and wonder how my choices affect those around me.

Heavy stuff? Maybe just a touch. But No Unturned Stone is nothing if not a thought-provoking gritty suspense novel that can appeal to men and women alike. It's got danger, mystery, romance, and hey, it's a time travel novel after all! Oh, and I just have to mention my favorite part, and that's the song drops that pepper, and are part of, the story. They are so much fun! I enjoyed the second book in The True Lies Of Rembrandt Stone and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives No Unturned Stone by David James Warren a 4 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

James L. Rubart is 28 years old, but lives trapped inside an older man’s body. He’s the best-selling, Christy Hall of Fame author of ten novels and loves to send readers on mind-bending journeys they’ll remember months after they finish one of his stories. He’s dad to the two most outstanding sons on the planet and lives with his amazing wife on a small lake in eastern Washington.
CONNECT WITH JAMES:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and RITA award–winning author of more than eighty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. The mother of four grown children, and married to her real-life hero for over 30 years, she loves traveling and telling stories about life, adventure, and faith. CONNECT WITH SUSAN:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

David Curtis Warren is making his literary debut in these novels, and he’s never been more excited. He looks forward to creating more riveting stories with Susie and Jim, as well as on his own. He’s grateful for his co-writers, family, and faith, buoying him during the pandemic of 2020, and this writing and publishing process.
CONNECT WITH DAVID: Instagram

It's Time For A Giveaway!

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Cast the First Stone & No Unturned Stone!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight April 6, 2021 and will last through
11:59 PM EST on April 13, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and
given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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

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WORD Wednesday - April 7th, 2021

4/7/2021

0 Comments

Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - The Purple Nightgown by A.D. Lawrence (Review, Guest Post, Giveaway)

4/2/2021

1 Comment

Marvel at true but forgotten history when patients
check into Linda Hazzard’s Washington state spa in
1912 and soon become victim of her twisted greed.

Book 10 in the True Colors series—Fiction Based on Strange-But True History

Heiress Stella Burke is plagued by insincere suitors and nonstop headaches. Exhausting all other medical aides for her migraines, Stella reads Fasting for the Cure of Disease by Linda Hazzard and determines to go to the spa the author runs. Stella’s chauffer and long-time friend, Henry Clayton, is reluctant to leave her at the spa. Something doesn’t feel right to him, still Stella submits herself into Linda Hazzard’s care. Stella soon learns the spa has a dark side and Linda a mean streak. But when Stella has had enough, all ways to leave are suddenly blocked. Will Stella become a walking skeleton like many of the other patients or succumb to a worse fate?

Genre: Christian Historical Suspense
Release date: March, 2021

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

She's desperate to find health, can he save her?

It's hard to believe that we are already to the tenth book in the True Colors series! I have eagerly anticipated each new release since reading the first book. And I've never been disappointed. The Purple Nightgown was one that I looked forward to as I was already at least somewhat familiar with the historical true crime events and I was totally curious as to what direction A.D. Lawrence might take her characters, real and fictional.

I had such mixed feelings about the characters! One the one hand I thought Stella was spoiled, gullible, and deliberately foolish, but, on the other hand I still liked her and wanted so much for her to have a happy ending. I genuinely liked Henry but sometimes I wanted to just shake some sense into him and yell at him to stop letting class get in the way. Can you tell that I was emotionally involved? Just a little bit?

I will say this. Whether you are interested in alternative medicine or not, this villain sure is one crazy woman, Linda Buzzard...err...Hazzard sure gave/gives it a bad name. I'm not sure I'll ever see orange juice in quite the same way again...

While I have liked some of the previous True Colors books a little better I thought that The Purple Nightgown was a sold addition to the series. It was interesting, it was entertaining, and A.D. Lawrence did a really great job surprising me with the showdown with some of the bad guys. I just did not see that particular scene coming. Now I just can't wait to read the next book...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Purple Nightgown by A.D. Lawrence a 4 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

More from A.D. Lawrence

Times have changed. And like so many things, health retreats have experienced their own metamorphosis. Sure, they’ve always catered to people with both spare money and time, but aside from similar clientele, the face of the health spa is nothing like its early 20th century sister.

If you could afford a getaway to a modern-day health spa like The Golden Door, you’d be treated to the luxury of rest. Yoga on the beach. Deep tissue massages. A much-needed break from technology and life’s constant pressures. Mental well-being is valued almost as highly as physical health, and the two are thought to be connected. After days or weeks of pampering, you would return home relaxed, recharged, and ready to dip back into the hustle of the real world.

In 1911, during the time of The Purple Nightgown, the medical community took a diametrically different approach to health. Weight equaled health.The prevailing assumption was that any ailments were directly connected to weight. Thus, ‘fat camps’ grew in popularity. Men and women checked into sanatoriums where the aides put them through grueling exercise regimes and provided them with just enough food to sustain life. No coddling. Not many of us would subject ourselves to the treatments early health spas required.

In this era of already extreme health measures, Linda Hazzard made her mark in Washington State. Obsessed with fasting, she ran her patients through an unfathomable course of ‘diet and exercise’ that proved the undoing of many. She did give massages though, which you’ll learn more about when you read The Purple Nightgown.

Although it’s fun to long for a simpler time while reading historical books and watching shows like Little House on the Prairie, there are some modern ways of thinking and advances in human comfort I’d rather not give up. One of those is the vastly superior spa experience we have today. Somehow, a facial with soothing background music sounds much more appealing than running mile after mile every day with nothing to look forward to but a glass of orange juice or a bowl of canned tomato broth.

Hot stone massage anyone?

A.D. Lawrence

A.D. Lawrence makes her home in Northeastern Nebraska. She has been passionate about writing and true crime for years, and her two obsessions melded into the goal of authorship. She is an active member of the ACFW, writes a true crime blog, won the 2019 Crown Award and was a 2019 First Impressions finalist.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, A.D. is giving away the grand prize package
of a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/1098d/the-purple-nightgown-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 23
lakesidelivingsite, March 23
The Meanderings of a Bookworm, March 23
For Him and My Family, March 24
Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, March 24
Godly Book Reviews, March 24
Through the Fire Blogs, March 25
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 25
For the Love of Literature, March 26
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 26
Mary Hake, March 26
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 27
deb’s Book Review, March 27
Pause for Tales, March 28
Remembrancy, March 28
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 28
Connie’s History Classroom, March 29
Genesis 5020, March 29
Melissa Wardwell’s Back Porch Reads, March 29
Babbling Becky L’sBook Impressions, March 30
Texas Book-aholic, March 30
Inklings and notions, March 31
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 31 (Author Interview)
Cathe Swanson, March 31
Older & Smarter?, April 1
Betti Mace, April 1
Rebecca Tews, April 1
Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 2
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 2
Vicky Sluiter, April 2
Locks, Hooks and Books, April 3
Amanda Tero, blog, April 3
Blossoms and Blessings, April 3
Christian Bookaholic, April 4
Blogging With Carol, April 4
Spoken from the Heart, April 4
Splashes of Joy, April 5
Artistic Nobody, April 5 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)
Southern Gal Loves to Read, April 5

1 Comment

Author Interview with Mary Alford

4/1/2021

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Seeking refuge in Amish country
puts everyone she loves in danger.

On the run after discovering her brother-in-law was behind her husband’s murder, Faith Cooper can think of only one safe place—her Amish grandmother’s home. But when danger follows Faith to the quiet Amish community, her childhood friend Eli Shetler is her only protection. And their survival depends on outlasting a relentless killer…one who has nothing left to lose.

ISBN-13: 9781335722355

PURCHASE
Amazon ■ Barnes and Noble ■ Kobo ■ Google Play

Author Interview with Mary Alford

#1. What started you on the “Alpine Path” (writing career)?
My writing career started because of a love of reading. I don’t remember when I fell in love with reading, I just remember reading—everything.

Like a lot of suspense authors, I fell in love with Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys. I read all their books and then, later, graduated to Phyllis Whitney, Victoria Holt, Mary Stewart to name a few. I devoured their books and just somehow knew I wanted to do what they did. And so, I wrote my first book as a pre-teen. It was set in Hawaii and filled with awful cliches. But the fire was lit even though it wouldn’t be until much later that I chose to take that desire to write seriously. When I sold my first Love Inspired Suspense in 2012, it was a dream come true and I still remember the feeling I experienced at getting “the call”.

#2. Are you a full-time author or do you have another job?
I am blessed to be able to write fulltime. When I worked at my last job and hated it, my dream was to one day become a fulltime author. Thanks to my amazing husband and his support, I was able to do that.

#3. What is the hardest part of being an author?
Sitting in front of a blank page on a new story. It’s scary and intimidating, but it is also exciting. And when those first words begin to flow, well, it’s hard to stop for anything, food included.

#4. How has becoming a published author changed your life?
I get to create stories for a living. That’s so awesome. As a suspense author I get to work out the intricate details of my characters worst nightmares and give them a happy ending. I can’t imagine doing anything else and I wish that I could do that for those who are hurting in real life. Wish it were that simple.

#5. What genre(s) do you write and what drew you to it/them?
I tried several different genres when I first started out, but those old books by Victoria Holt and Phyllis Whitney as well as Mary Stewart kept tugging me toward the suspense genre. I started reading all the Christian suspense books I could get my hands on and knew that was where God had been leading me all along.

#6. What is the craziest thing you've done in the name of research?
I would hate for anyone to look at my browser history. There are searches on terrorists, nuclear weapons, how to build bombs, different methods to kill. To someone looking in who didn’t know I was a writer, they’d probably think I had something terrible planned. I’m sure I would end up on several watch lists, if not in an interrogation room being grilled about my allegiances.

#7. If you could give your younger self one piece of advice what would it be?
Follow your dream sooner. I wish I had started writing seriously much earlier.

#8. Tell us something funny, sad, embarrassing, whatever, that has happened in your life as
writer.
My big break came while I was sitting in the parking lot of Ace Hardware in Pagosa Springs, Colorado on my laptop because that was the only place, I could get internet to do my pitch to Love Inspired. If I hadn’t done that interview, I might still be striving for my first book sale. God always works things together for good.

When I look back at all the things that brought me to the place where I am here today, I see God’s hand through it all. When I went off on my own, in a direction that wasn’t what He wanted, I failed. But when I trusted Him. Let Him pave the way for me, He blessed me beyond what I could ever have dreamed.

In April, my 10th Love Inspired Suspense releases. Shielding The Amish Witness comes out April 1st in ebook, and print on April 13th.

Mary Alford

USA Today Bestselling Author, Mary Alford, loves giving her readers the unexpected, whether it be in a rugged mountain setting or a peaceful Amish community.
Her books have appeared on the USA Today Bestselling List, Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling List, and have been finalists in the Daphne Du Maurier award of excellence, The Beverly, The Maggie, and The Selah Awards.
Mary lives in Texas with her husband, two very spoiled cats, and a sweet rescue dog named Cody. Mary is very active online and would love to connect with readers on Facebook and Twitter or any social platforms listed at www.maryalford.net.

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Book Review - Covert Amish Christmas by Mary Alford

3/29/2021

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Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Covert Amish Christmas
Love Inspired Suspense
by Mary Alford

-From Goodreads-

Fleeing to Amish country
might be the only way to survive Christmas…

Hiding in Amish country, former CIA agent Victoria Kauffman’s determined to find evidence to catch the corrupt agents who killed her partner. But when her Christmas refuge is discovered, the sole person she can trust is Amish widower Aaron Shetler. With ruthless—and dangerously powerful—enemies after them, Victoria must use all her training to make sure they live through the holidays.

ISBN-13: 9781335403155

Can he protect her in spite of his beliefs?

I've been a fan of Mary Alford's for several years now, but I was beyond thrilled when she chose to place several of her spine-tingling Love Inspired Suspense novels in the Amish community of West Kootenai in Montana. Needless to say, I was looking forward to Covert Amish Christmas and I was not disappointed.

Filled with chills, and not just from the cold, plenty of thrills, and even a few spills, Covert Amish Christmas was quite the exciting read! Smuggling, betrayal, murder, rogue government agents, and the deadly Montana winter landscape – not to mention an unexpected and inopportune romance – are all of the ingredients needed to make a real page-turner.

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

Mary Alford

Author Website

My question is, what are you waiting for? This may be a holiday story but you can definitely read it any time of the year and any Love Inspired Suspense novel from Mary Alford is sure to intrigue and entertain. Don't miss out!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Covert Amish Christmas by Mary Alford a 4 Bark rating.

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - A Dark Beauty by Clarissa Kae (Review, Guest Post, Giveaway)

3/29/2021

6 Comments

A Victorian Twist on Beauty And The Beast

Bold and brilliant, Georgiana has a gift for fixing machines—from clocks to carriages—while her father has a penchant for finding trouble. In an accidental fire, Georgiana and her father scar the once handsome face of Lord Pichon, cousin to the queen.

Rumors of Georgiana’s gift raise her family’s status. Her incomparable beauty captures the eye of many gentlemen and the wrath of Lord Pichon. Abandoned by his peers and alone in his cold castle, Lord Pichon is determined to enact revenge.

When Georgiana’s father makes a terrible mistake, she sacrifices herself to pay his debt—as a lowly maid in Lord Pichon’s castle.

Her wit and warmth begin to thaw Lord Pichon’s estate, making him question his version of the past. Will her kindness break the beastly lord or will he hold her family hostage forever?

Genre: Fairytale
Release date: March 9, 2021

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

She destroyed his life, now he will destroy hers...

As a kid I collected fairytale books. As a teen I discovered fairytale retellings. I was intrigued by A Dark Beauty when I first saw the pretty cover, and, as soon as I found out it was a Beauty And The Beast retelling I knew I had to read it.

Clarissa Kae is a new-to-me author but this won't be the last book of hers that I read. Nope, I enjoyed this one and will certainly be wanting to get my hands on the next Victorian Retellings novel. I was curious where the author would take her beauty and beast, and, despite having read the back cover blurb I was still a bit surprised. From the Palace of St. James to the wild spaces of Wales, betrayal and political intrigue, this book has it all. However, what I loved the most were the witty barbs zinging back and forth between Georgiana and Lord Pichon. Ouch!

A Dark Beauty was a fairly quick read, aimed a little bit more towards older teens I still had no problem enjoying the story as an adult. I liked the fact that the original fairytale elements were all there but Clarissa Kae certainly made the story her own and told it in her own voice. If you love fairytale retellings I would easily suggest adding the first Victorian Retellings book to your shelf...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives A Dark Beauty by Clarissa Kae a 4 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

More from Clarissa

As a young girl most of the fairy tales talked about beauty as the only attribute but when Disney came out with Beauty and the Beast, my world was rocked. For the first time the heroine was a woman with a brain and a plan. I began researching the fairy tale and read every version.

When my youngest daughter was born (with dark hair and big beautiful brown eyes) I named her Isla Belle. For as long as I can remember, I dreamed of writing a Beauty and the Beast retelling. And finally, that dream as come true.

Clarissa Kae

Clarissa Kae is a preeminent voice whose professional career began as a freelance editor in 2007. She’s the former president of her local California Writers Club after spending several years as the Critique Director.
Since her first novel, she’s explored different writing genres and created a loyal group of fans who eagerly await her upcoming release. With numerous awards to her name, Clarissa continues to honor the role of storyteller.
Aside from the writing community, she and her daughters founded Kind Girls Make Strong Women to help undervalued nonprofit organizations—from reuniting children with families to giving Junior Olympic athletes their shot at success.
She lives in the agricultural belly of California with her family and farm of horses, chickens, dogs and kittens aplenty.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Clarissa is giving away to two winners
one $25 Amazon gift card each!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/109d3/a-dark-beauty-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

For Him and My Family, March 25
Labor Not in Vain, March 25
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 26
The Write Escape, March 26
Books and Everyday Life, March 26
Texas Book-aholic, March 27
Breny and Books, March 27
The Christian Fiction Girl, March 28
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 28
Melissa Wardwell’s Back Porch Reads, March 28
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, March 29
Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 29
Through the Fire Blog, March 30
Inklings and notions, March 30
deb’s Book Review, March 31
Connect in Fiction, March 31
Inside the Wong Mind, March 31
Locks, Hooks and Books, April 1
Inspiration Clothesline, April 1
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 2
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 2
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, April 3
To Everything There Is A Season, April 3
Beauty in the Binding, April 3
Connie’s History Classroom, April 4
Blogging With Carol, April 4
A Baker’s Perspective, April 5
Genesis 5020, April 5
Pause for Tales, April 5
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 6
Godly Book Reviews, April 6
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 7
Adventures of a Travelers Wife, April 7
Mary Hake, April 7

6 Comments

Book Review - His Holiday Prayer by Tina Radcliffe

3/28/2021

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Genre:
Romance

His Holiday Prayer
Hearts Of Oklahoma book 3
(Love Inspired)
by Tina Radcliffe

-From Goodreads-

A new beginning could be closer than he thinks.

What he wants for Christmas…
may not be what he needs.

After receiving an unexpected job offer in Texas, widower Tucker Rainbolt decides he and his twins need a fresh start. But moving on means leaving his best friend, Jena Harper, and their vet clinic behind. For the first time, Tucker sees Jena as more than a buddy. What if leaving isn’t the answer? Maybe what he’s been missing has been right beside him the whole time…

ISBN-13: 9781335488558

His choice may break her heart...

You ever find one of those authors who, no matter what series it is, manages to make you feel right at home and friends with the characters whether you are starting with book 1 or book 3? Tina Radcliffe is one of those authors for me. I can just jump right into any of her stories and feel completely comfortable. While I have read all of the Hearts Of Oklahoma books in order, it is a little while between books, and since I read so much I don't always remember everything right off the bat. But that's just not a problem with His Holiday Prayer or any of the others.

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

Tina Radcliffe

Author Website

Spring may have just started to sprung where I live but I still enjoyed all of the Christmasy-iness of His Holiday Prayer. It's another sweet romance from the talented Tina Radcliffe and no matter what time of year it happens to be it's still a good time for one of her books.

If you love pets this is the book for you! As a pet lover myself, the four-legged characters in this book really won my heart, especially little Miss Ernie and Chester. Of course, in my opinion, you can't go wrong reading any of the Hearts Of Oklahoma books. Don't miss a one!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives His Holiday Prayer by Tina Radcliffe a 4 Bark rating.

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Screen the Church People movie!

3/26/2021

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Weary from the showiness and materialism that has overtaken his ministry efforts, Guy (Ramsey) goes on a journey to get back in touch with the heart of ministry and be a real role model to his youth group kids. He makes the difficult decision to cut short his speaking tour managed by his money-focused agent (Faison) after realizing that his reputation has become more fame-based than Gospel-driven.

But when Guy attempts to return to regular youth ministry, he is thrust into the throes of dissuading the youth group from performing a strange and potentially blasphemous stunt for the upcoming Easter service, starring a young, zealous new believer, Blaise. In attempting to manage his youth group while navigating an unexpected love interest in the Senior Pastor’s daughter (Cahill) and being a new father to his grown daughter (Manfredi), Guy ultimately rediscovers and puts on a powerful presentation of why we all need to put our hope in Jesus and not in ourselves.

Review

There's a new way to see Church People!
Virtual Screening Online!
Check it out by clicking below!

Watch Church People

#ChurchPeopleFilm #ChurchPeopleMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Hosea's Heart by Linda Wood Rondeau (Interview, Guest Post, Giveaway)

3/24/2021

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How much should a wronged husband forgive?

Aubrey Beaumont has spent the last fifteen years in search of his runaway, drug-addicted wife. Now a respected Silver Spring pastor and chaplain, ready to give up and move on, his life takes unexpected turns when she suddenly contacts him. Terminally ill and having found faith, she begs Aubrey’s forgiveness. How can he overlook her past prostitution and liaison with one of Washington’s most vicious drug lords?

Grateful for a chance at reconciliation, Joanna Beaumont prays that her seemingly wasted life might serve some purpose in her final days. Perhaps her testimony against her former lover’s cartel will bring her the peace she craves.

Joanna and Aubrey’s paths will crisscross the Capital District’s underworld where they discover how God weaves threads of failure into tapestries of hope.

Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction
Release date: 2018

Click here to get your copy!

Interview with Linda

#1. What was the inspiration for this book?
Before I started writing professionally, I worked in the human services field: family services, adult protective services, child protective services, medical services, senior services, and nursing home social services, as well as hospital social services and as an in-school case manager. All these roles gave me many insights into the spiral of addiction and the profound impact addiction has on those who love the victim of substance abuse. Those who don’t understand are quick to judge and slow to develop compassion … much like my character Gregg Fischer, who hated drug addicts because of his personal loss. I wanted to write a book to show addicts are as much in need of love as anyone and how true love can only be extended through the power of the Holy Spirit. I hoped to show how God’s healing power transcends our failures.

#2. Do you have favorite character(s) in this book?
I am hard pressed to pick a favorite out of my main characters in Hosea’s Heart. I see myself in all of them, even the male characters. But perhaps, my favorite is a secondary character, Percy Logan. I love his spunk. Even though he is in the early stages of dementia, he turns his life over to God. His end is better than his beginning. He struggles to make up for the lost years with his estranged daughter. Sometimes the aged babe in Christ can demonstrate more spiritual wisdom than the one

who has walked with the Lord his whole life. Perhaps the most difficult character for me to write in Hosea’s Heart, was Joanna. As a social worker, I understood the personal struggles of the addicted soul. I wanted to show the tragedy of Joanna’s circumstances and her fear she’d come to the Lord too late to find a purpose for her life. I wept for her as she pleads with God to let the little time she has left on earth to have meaning.

#3. Tell us a little about yourself, your family, friends.
I think as you get older, there is a process called life review. We examine the whole of our lives and try to make sense of all our experiences, it’s successes and disappointments. In youth, we give little thought to how the complexities of our lives create a web God can use in our later years. I am a product of emotional abuse and divorce. God did give me three wonderful children. I remarried and have been with this wonderful man for forty-three years. As mentioned previously, much of my work experience has been in human services, though I

trained as a high school English teacher. I am a cancer survivor, and do encourage women to get their mammograms on a regular basis. My twenties, especially as a single parent, proved to be a time of great struggle. Yet, God sustained me, though admittedly, I was not always faithful to him. I questioned every tenet I’d been taught growing up in a fundamentalist church. God saved me from long-term consequences of my bad choices during those years. Today, through God’s pruning and patience, I’m enjoying the retirement life, though again not without

its challenges. I am the mother of three and grandmother of nine, all of whom bring me special blessings. When able, the hubs and I enjoy playing golf, going to museums, and walking. I watch a lot of television, justifying the time spent as “studying the elements of story.” We’ve been fairly isolated during this pandemic, but we do enjoy our online friendships. Though we lived most of our married life in the tundra of Northern New York, we spent six years post-retirement in Florida, opting to move to Hagerstown, MD to be nearer our children and grandchildren. We actually enjoy having four seasons again without the frigid temperatures. We are active in our local church, mostly in short-term ministry projects and in support capacities.

#4. What one piece of advice would you like to give readers?
Coming to the Lord near the end of her terminal illness, Joanna felt her life had been wasted, that her addiction had robbed her of leaving a lasting legacy. She never lived to know her true legacy. Her struggles were the catalyst that prompted Aubrey to start a mission to impact hundreds. Eventually, Joanna surrendered her doubts and chose to believe God would somehow bring about some good from all she endured.
Where we see weakness and defeat, God sees strength and possibilities.
Romans 8:28 reminds us how God can take our worst past to make our best future once we have surrendered our messes to him:

#5. Share with us a thought, Bible verse, whatever is on your mind/heart.
My favorite Bible verse is John 10:10.

For many years, I only wanted to quote the second half of this verse. Then I realized, Satan is the thief. He wants to sabotage God’s good work in us with his many arrows of lies, to make us feel discouraged and doubtful in times of trouble. But God’s intent for us is to enjoy his many blessings, abundantly so. When trouble comes, we have a choice. We can let Satan bog us down with anger, resentment, or bitterness. Or we can trust the God who wants to provide a blessing even in this circumstance.

More from Linda

Folks ask me why I kept searching for Joanna.

I don’t really see myself as a martyr, self-sacrificing, or even like the prophet Hosea as some have compared me to.

Perhaps I searched so long because Joanna was the only woman I ever truly loved. We met at the Top Notch Lounge when I had stopped in to buy a getaway package for my parents’ twenty-fifth anniversary.

I turned to my friend, Gregg, a private detective, and said, “See that girl over there? I’m going to marry her.

Gregg shook his head “You’re crazy. That broad is nothing but trouble.”

“And you know this, how?”

“Instinct, buddy.”

I left Gregg standing at the reservation desk and walked confidently toward a future that I could only guess. She smiled at me as I approached her table and glanced at her beverage. “Cinnamon tea?” I asked.

I sniffed the scent. Then, it was like an aphrodisiac. Now the aroma makes me nauseous. If I had known then what I know now? Moot question because life rarely offers a mulligan.

Gregg gave me a sign that he’d wait for me at the restaurant.

I sat down next to her. “Aubrey Beaumont.”

“Joanna Curtis.”

We talked, though not about anything of importance. I knew no more about her after an hour than her name and that she’d been deserted by her boyfriend. Yet, I knew I loved her.

“Have you had dinner yet?”

“No. Actually, I haven’t eaten all day. I should keep up my strength. I’m eating for two.”

I suppose most men would be scared away at that point. But something tugged at me. I sensed she didn’t need me—but I needed her, as intoxicating as any drug.

“Why not join me and my friend at the restaurant downstairs.”

Despite Gregg’s loud protests, Joanna and I married two days later. I adopted her unborn daughter, though not of my flesh, a child of my heart. I didn’t know about Joanna’s addiction until the first time she left us. Though she had been to rehab numerous times, she relapsed again and again. The last time she left, I held her note in my hand, my heart sliced by the knowledge she’d not be back.

The intelligent thing would be to let her disappear … what she wanted. I always led with my heart, not common sense. Perhaps why God called me into the ministry after Joanna’s first relapse.

My fruitless search took me into the Capital District where I pastored a church in Silver Spring. Hope waned … and I even thought I might find love again with a woman named Cynthia. Until Joanna found me and called me to her side.

Fifteen years have passed since she left me the last time. Now, here I stand … face-to-face with reality. Cancer will take Joanna away forever. What does God require of me now? I can forgive her addiction. But sometimes a wife’s betrayal goes beyond the forgivable –her liaison with Joey Juarez, the worst drug czar in the Washington, D.C. area.

I have every right, scripturally and logically, to divorce her and move on. Yet, that same voice that called me to her so many years ago calls to me now. “Till death part us.”

READER:
What would you do if you were Aubrey? How would you advise him?

Linda Wood Rondeau

A veteran social worker, Linda Wood Rondeau has earned critical acclaim for her heart-warming stories of deliverance and forgiveness. The author now resides in Hagerstown, MD with her husband of forty years. Active in her local church, she enjoys playing the occasional round of golf, a common feature in many of her books. Readers may contact the author through Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Pinterest, and Instagram or visit her website: www.lindarondeau.com.

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Linda is giving away the grand prize
of a book from her Amazon Author page!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

https://promosimple.com/ps/10986/hosea-s-heart-celebration-tour-giveaway

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 17
Susan K. Beatty, Author, March 18 (Author Interview)
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 18
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, March 19
Texas Book-aholic, March 20
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 21
Locks, Hooks and Books, March 22
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 23
Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 24 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 25
For Him and My Family, March 26
Inklings and notions, March 27
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 28
deb’s Book Review, March 29
By The Book, March 30 (Author Interview)
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 30

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First Line Friday - March 19th, 2021 (late)

3/21/2021

1 Comment

Buy

E-Book

Includes affiliate links.

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Celebrate Lit Blog Tour - Texas Target Standoff by Virginia Vaughan (Review, Guest Post, Giveaway)

3/21/2021

5 Comments

A sniper lurks closer…
and only a navy SEAL can save her.

When psychologist Shelby Warren suddenly becomes a sniper’s target, navy SEAL Paul Avery springs into action to protect her. He needs her evaluation to get back to his team…and rescuing her might finally give him the redemption he’s been searching for. But when danger follows them to his family’s Texas ranch, keeping Shelby safe could be his most difficult assignment yet.

Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense
Release date: March 1, 2021

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

She can ruin his career, can he save her life?

Let me start by saying that it's because of books like Texas Target Standoff that I enjoy Love Inspired Suspense, and in particular Virginia Vaughan, as much as I do. I liked it almost as much as I did the first Cowboy Lawmen novel, Texas Twin Abduction, which is my favorite Virginia Vaughan book of all time....for now at least.

Texas Target Standoff had all of the danger, mystery, drama, tension, and romance my little mayhem-loving heart could wish for. It's a fairly short read but the author packs all of the action and suspense she can into approximately 220 pages.

Fans of Virginia Vaughan and Love Inspired Suspense are sure to love her Cowboy Lawmen series. Texas Target Standoff is book 3 but each one can be read standalone. I can tell you from personal experience, though, that you won't want to miss a single one!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Texas Target Standoff by Virginia Vaughan a 4.5 Bark rating.

(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

More from Virginia

As writers, we discover many new and interesting things while researching a story. For TEXAS TARGET STANDOFF, I decided I wanted the hero to have a dog so I started looking at different photographs of dogs online until I found the one image I wanted to use—a sweet little border collie I named Bullet. He helps my navy SEAL hero find comfort and friendship while he’s recovering from injuries at his family’s ranch. But looking at dog photos on the internet did more than help my character grow, it also inspired me to adopt a dog of my own.

My home had been pet-free for many years since my beloved dog Miss Duchess died from cancer five years ago and, although the ten-year-old nephew I’m raising had been asking for a dog for about a year, I hadn’t reached the point of pulling the trigger and bringing another one home. Only the research I did for this book reopened that desire inside of me for canine companionship. In September of 2020, my son and I searched the shelters in search of a family dog and, when I spotted this adorable border collie mix, I knew we had to bring her home. We named her Ivy and, since joining our family, this sweet girl has brought us lots of love and laughter, plus a new adventure—dog training. I’ve never trained a dog in my life and little Ivy is a stubborn one. I’ve scoured YouTube for videos, taken classes, and worked daily on the simplest of commands like sit, wait, lie down. Slowly, we are making progress although barking, jumping, and walking on a leash are still some areas where we’re struggling.

I’d love to hear about your pets or your best training tips! To learn more about my family, including my training journey with Ivy, follow me on Facebook or subscribe to my newsletter at the links below. And look out for the next book—little sister Kellyanne’s story—in my Cowboy Lawmen series coming June 29, 2021.

Blessings!
Virginia

Virginia Vaughan

Bestselling author Virginia Vaughan writes inspirational romantic suspense. Blessed to come from a large, southern family, her fondest memories include listening to stories recounted by family and friends around the large dinner table. She was a lover of books even from a young age, devouring gothic romance novels and stories of romance, danger, and love. She soon started writing them herself. A former investigator for the State of Mississippi, Virginia utilizes her criminal justice background with her love or writing to transform words into powerful stories of romance and danger.