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2018 Reading Year In Review

12/31/2018

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Reading Year In Review

Goodreads Reading Challenge
Goal: 75 books
Started: January 1st
Completed: June 27th

« First Book Completed

Last Book Completed »

Fiction: 156 Non-Fiction: 6 Other: 1
Print Books: 116 E-Books: 42 Audiobooks: 5

« Shortest Book

Longest Book »

Total Number of Books Read: 163
Total Pages Read: 44,118
Percentage Of Challenge Completed: 217%

See My Book List

Review Stats

Total Number of Reviews: 126

Fiction: 117 Non-Fiction: 10*
Print Books: 96* E-Books: 30 Audiobooks: 5*
CDs: 1 Movies: 0 Other: 0

* Indicates there may have been more than one book in a single review.

« First Review

Last Review »

for sticking with us in 2018!

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Book Review - A Rumored Fortune by Joanna Davidson Politano

12/31/2018

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Genre:
Historical Romance / Gothic

A Rumored Fortune
by Joanna Davidson Politano

-From Goodreads-

Tressa Harlowe's father did not trust banks, but neither did he trust his greedy extended family. He kept his vast fortune hidden somewhere on his estate in the south of England and died suddenly, without telling anyone where he had concealed it. Tressa and her ailing mother are left with a mansion and an immense vineyard and no money to run it. It doesn't take long for a bevy of opportunists to flock to the estate under the guise of offering condolences. Tressa knows what they're really up to. She'll have to work with the rough and rusticated vineyard manager to keep the laborers content without pay and discover the key to finding her father's fortune--before someone else finds it first.

Award-winning author Joanna Davidson Politano welcomes readers to Trevelyan Castle, home of the poorest heiress in Victorian England, for a treasure hunt they'll not soon forget.

ISBN-13: 978-0800728731

Can she trust anyone...or no one...?

A Rumored Fortune is a book that I'm going to have to gush about. I LOVED IT! Not only was I totally immersed in the story with its very Gothic atmosphere but I found the overarching message to be both moving and powerful.

This Book received a 5 Bark rating.

Joanna Davidson Politano

Author Website

It's not often that you find a book, when finished, causes you to feel perfectly satisfied, content, but author Joanna Davidson Politano manages this with the polish of a well seasoned author.

A Rumored Fortune is a perfectly wonderful example of the best in Gothic historical romance. It has all of the elements necessary, from a sometimes creepy house, characters who are not what they seem, an innocent and sensitive heroine, a hero with secrets and a past, a search for hidden treasure, and the dark threads of greed and villainy creeping ever closer. But it really is darkest before the dawn as the old proverb states and readers are treated to a wonderful ending to a perfectly magnificent story.

Joanna Davidson Politano has a real winner in her second novel, a book that is most definitely going on my favorite reads of the year list. A must read for any lover of historical fiction or Gothic romance...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives A Rumored Fortune by Joanna Davidson Politano a 5 Bark rating.

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Book Review - A Secret To Die For by Lisa Harris

12/31/2018

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Genre:
Romantic Suspense

A Secret To Die For
by Lisa Harris

-From Amazon-

Psychologist Grace Callahan has no idea that she has a secret--one worth killing for. But when she finds out one of her clients has been murdered, she quickly realizes that the computer security specialist wasn't simply suffering from paranoia.

Detective Nate Quinn has just been cleared for active duty after a bombing killed eighteen people, including his partner, and left him dealing with PTSD. His first case back on the job involves the murder of Stephen Shaw, and his only lead turns out to be an old friend, Grace Callahan--and her life is in grave danger. Someone believes Shaw gave his psychologist information before he died. Information they are willing to kill for.

With her signature pulse-pounding suspense, Lisa Harris takes readers deep into the heart of fear in this race against the clock.

ISBN-13: 978-0800729158

It's a race against time...for life and love...

I've read quite a few of Lisa Harris's wonderful romantic suspense novels over recent years and I've come to expect a lot from her. She's one of my top favorite romantic suspense authors. But I have to say that I wasn't quite prepared for A Secret To Die For. While this book has her trademark edge-of-your-seat action and suspense, she has seriously upped the ante, and the stakes are higher than ever before. This time the hero and heroine race to stop an attack that will have far-reaching repercussions if the evil plot succeeds.

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Lisa Harris

Author Website

A Secret To Die For was an exciting, and a bit chilling, read, especially in light of some recent news events. In addition to the riveting suspense this book is also a story of loss and picking up the pieces . So, if you are looking for a novel that will keep you glued to the page, gasping at all the twists and turns, while still managing to tug at the heart, Lisa Harris's latest is a must read. I, for one, can't wait until her next release....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives A Secret To Die For by Lisa Harris a 4.5 Bark rating.

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Book Review - Caught By Surprise by Jen Turano

12/31/2018

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Genre:
Historical Romance / Romantic Comedy

Caught By Surprise
Apart From The Crowd book 3
by Jen Turano

-From Amazon-

Miss Temperance Flowerdew is on her way to work when a stranger suddenly grabs her off the street and sends her on a Chicago-bound train before she can figure out what happened.

When Mr. Gilbert Cavendish is called upon to rescue a missing woman, he follows the trail to Chicago only to discover that the woman is his good friend Temperance. Before they can discover who was behind the abduction, they're seen alone together by a New York society matron, putting their reputations at risk.

Gilbert is willing to propose marriage--except Temperance will have none of it. She's finally stepped out of the shadow of her relations and won't give up her independence. But when it becomes clear the misunderstanding in Chicago has escalated into a threat on her life and followed her to New York, accepting Gilbert's help in solving the mystery may lead to more than she ever could have dreamed.

ISBN-13: 978-0764217968

An utterly charming and delightful book!

I'm in love with another Jen Turano book! I just can't help it! Each book seems to get better and better! And it only takes one glance at the front to see why it is my favorite cover from all of the lovely ones from this series and earlier ones.

This Book received a 5 Bark rating.

Jen Turano

Author Website

Caught By Surprise is a completely delightful blend of romance, comedy, history, and suspense. I have to confess that it took me a little bit to warm up to Mr. Gilbert Cavendish, he is SUCH a stuffed shirt! However, I loved the surprising and whimsical Miss Temperance Flowerdew from the start.

With a cast of characters who are charming, quirky, villainous, and NEVER what you expect, Jen Turano's conclusion to her irresistible Apart From The Crowd series is sure to enchant any reader. Caught By Surprise more than lives up to its title, featuring many laugh-out-loud moments, and even a few poignant ones, quite a few surprises all around, and a perfectly wonderful Happy ending...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Caught By Surprise by Jen Turano a 5 bark rating.

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Book Review - Dead Drift by Dani Pettrey

12/30/2018

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Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Dead Drift
Chesapeake Valor book 4
by Dani Pettrey

-From Amazon-

Burning debris littering the ground . . . smoke pluming in the acrid air . . . this is just the beginning if he fails.

Seven years ago, operative Luke Gallagher vanished to become part of an elite team set on capturing a deadly terrorist. When Luke returns to face those he left behind, their help becomes his only hope of stopping his target's latest threat of an attack that would shake America to its core.

Private investigator Kate Maxwell never stopped loving or looking for Luke after he disappeared. But she also never imagined he left her or his life by choice. Now he's back, and together they must unravel a twisting thread of secrets, lies, and betrayal, all while on the brink of a biological disaster.

Will they and their love survive, or will Luke and Kate become the terrorist's next mark?

ISBN-13: 978-0764212970

It's a race against time...and a deadly killer...

Wow! Just WOW! Dani Pettrey has taken readers on a roller coaster ride before but the Chesapeake Valor series and especially Dead Drift really takes the cake!

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Dani Pettrey

Author Website

I was held captive from the first page to the last as the characters, and readers, finally get the long anticipated answers to both the terrorist crisis, that, by the way, could easily have been ripped from today's news headlines, and the painful mystery surrounding the murder that has haunted the group of friends for over a decade.

Tense, riveting, and full of surprises, Dead Drift is a powerful conclusion to another amazing romantic suspense series from author Dani Pettrey. While reading this book you'll run an whirlwind along with the characters as they try to put their lives back together while racing to literally save the world from a group of diabolical terrorists. Yeah, this story really is that action-packed and it's sure to keep the reader awake late into the night with the promised “just one more chapter...”

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Dead Drift by Dani Pettrey a 4.5 Bark rating.

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Book Review - Lady Of A Thousand Treasures by Sandra Byrd

12/30/2018

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Genre:
Historical Romance / Gothic

Lady Of A Thousand Treasures
The Victorian Ladies book 1
by Sandra Byrd

-From Amazon-

Miss Eleanor Sheffield is a talented evaluator of antiquities, trained to know the difference between a genuine artifact and a fraud. But with her father’s passing and her uncle’s decline into dementia, the family business is at risk. In the Victorian era, unmarried Eleanor cannot run Sheffield Brothers alone.

The death of a longtime client, Baron Lydney, offers an unexpected complication when Eleanor is appointed the temporary trustee of the baron’s legendary collection. She must choose whether to donate the priceless treasures to a museum or allow them to pass to the baron’s only living son, Harry—the man who broke Eleanor’s heart.

Eleanor distrusts the baron’s motives and her own ability to be unbiased regarding Harry’s future. Harry claims to still love her and Eleanor yearns to believe him, but his mysterious comments and actions fuel her doubts. When she learns an Italian beauty accompanied him on his return to England, her lingering hope for a future with Harry dims.

With the threat of debtor’s prison closing in, Eleanor knows that donating the baron’s collection would win her favor among potential clients, saving Sheffield Brothers. But the more time she spends with Harry, the more her faith in him grows. Might Harry be worthy of his inheritance, and her heart, after all? As pressures mount and time runs out, Eleanor must decide whom she can trust—who in her life is false or true, brass or gold—and what is meant to be treasured.

ISBN-13: 978-1496426833

Her decision may cost them everything...

This Book received a 5 Bark rating.

Sandra Byrd

Author Website

There are two types of Gothic romance, the good, and the trashy. Lady Of A Thousand Treasures is one of the best of the good. I was intrigued, first by the fact that I love Sandra Byrd's historical Gothic romances, and second because the back cover said that the heroine is an evaluator of antiquities. As a museum fan and history nut this rather unusual occupation, especially for a woman, really appealed to me.

Lady Of A Thousand Treasures was everything I had hoped it would be an more. Cleverly woven into the rich tapestry of historical detail and captivating characters is a story of loss and redemption. I very quickly became totally immersed in Eleanor's world. Author Sandra Byrd's distinctive writing style making me feel as if I were right there with her characters.

Lady Of A Thousand Treasures is more than just a historical romance with a forebodingly Gothic atmosphere, it's also a very moving and engrossing story. One phrase that really stuck out to me was Eleanor's belief that she was “no one's treasure” which is a feeling that I think so many of us girls have struggled with ourselves. Of course, God does not leave our heroine in that place of brokenness.

Sandra Byrd's latest book is a treasure unto itself, a story that will stick in the mind and heart even after it has been long finished. And I have no compunction in saying that it is one of my favorite books read this year...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Lady Of A Thousand Treasures by Sandra Byrd a 5 Bark rating.

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Book Review - In Too Deep by Lynn H. Blackburn

12/30/2018

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Genre:
Romantic Suspense

In Too Deep
Dive Team Investigations book 2
by Lynn H. Blackburn

-From Goodreads-

When the dive team is called in to recover a body from a submerged car, they aren't prepared to find an encrypted laptop--or an unsettling connection between investigator Adam Campbell and the dead accountant.

Adam turns to his friend Dr. Sabrina Fleming--a professor at the local university with unparalleled computer security and forensics skills--to recover the files from the laptop. But the deeper they dig, the deadlier the investigation becomes. When evidence uncovers a human trafficking ring and implicates members of Adam's own family, he and Sabrina will have to risk everything to solve the case.

The truth could set hundreds free--but someone is willing to do whatever it takes to silence anyone who threatens to reveal their secrets. Award-winning author Lynn H. Blackburn invites readers back to Carrington, North Carolina, where everything is not as it seems and sinister elements lurk behind the idyllic facade.

ISBN-13: 978-0800729295

They are seriously In Too Deep...

I really loved the first book in the Dive Team Investigations series so I was really looking forward to book two. When I saw the cover, I think it's probably one of my favorites from 2018, I was even more intrigued and anxious to get my hands on the story.

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

Lynn H. Blackburn

Author Website

One of the things that I've really liked about this series is that while each book delivers the same edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense the type of investigation is different. With In Too Deep author Lynn H. Blackburn takes on a very difficult topic, human trafficking. But we are not talking about human trafficking in Africa or some other country half a world away, no, this is the evil that happens every day on any given street in the good ol' USA. I have to say that this isn't something that I normally read about but this book did give me a lot to think to about.

I have to say that Sabrina is one of the most interesting heroines that I've read about this year. She has some quirks that are peculiar to her – and they keep the hero, Adam, on his toes. I really enjoyed watching the romance develop between the hero and heroine even as they dodged bullets, thugs, and all manner of mayhem while getting In Too Deep. Author Lynn H. Blackburn sure takes her characters, and readers, through the wringer in this adventure!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives In Too Deep by Lynn H. Blackburn a 4 Bark rating.

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Book Review - Who I Am With You by Robin Lee Hatcher

12/29/2018

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Genre:
Women's Fiction / Romance

Who I Am With You
A Legacy Of Faith Novel book 1
by Robin Lee Hatcher

-From Amazon-

For these two broken hearts, the first step
toward love will be a huge leap of faith.

Jessica Mason isn’t looking for love when she meets Ridley Chesterfield. Instead she is still reeling from the tragic, unexpected loss of her husband and daughter—and awaiting the arrival of her unborn child. Harboring the secret of her husband’s betrayal, her pain is deeper than anyone knows.

Ridley Chesterfield is hiding out in Hope Springs, Idaho, avoiding a political scandal and the barrage of false media headlines that have tarnished his good name. The last thing Ridley wants is a relationship—but when fate leads Ridley to form a friendship with his reclusive and pregnant neighbor, he wonders if this small-town hideout might be more of a long-term destination.

When Jessica begins to read her great-grandfather’s Bible, she finds a connection with a man she never knew. Somehow the verses he marked and the words he wrote in the margins open her heart to healing. And as Ridley and Jessica help each other forgive the people who have wronged them, they must decide if the past will define them or if they will choose to love again.

Who I Am With You weaves together a modern-day romance with Jessica’s great-grandfather’s story from the 1930s, reminding us that some truths can cross generations and that faith has the power to transform families forever.

ISBN-13: 978-0785219262

Only those closest can hurt us the most...

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Robin Lee Hatcher

Author Website

I have to admit that I really don't read a lot of women's fiction. Probably because they usually deal with the messier side of life and emotion. My favorite genres pretty much involve dead bodies or long dresses with multiple petticoats. I was first drawn to Who I Am With You because of the author. I've read a number of Robin Lee Hatcher's historical romances in the past and I decided that it was high time I try one of her contemporary stories. I'm really glad I did. Yeah, there was the expected fallout, but there was so much more to the story. I quickly found myself immersed in the lives of the characters and entirely unable to put the book aside.

The theme of forgiveness ran through both the historical and contemporary threads as the characters found themselves wading through the mire of betrayal and loss. But none of them, Jessica, Ridley, nor Jessica's great-grandfather, let that mire totally overwhelm them. They reach out to grasp the hand of the only One who can truly lift them out of the messy quagmire that sometimes threatens to engulf.

Who I Am With You is a beautiful story. It's a poignant story. And sometimes it's a bittersweet story. But most importantly it's a story you won't soon forget. Robin Lee Hatcher's message of faith and forgiveness is one that will linger on long after the last page is turned...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Who I Am With You by Robin Lee Hatcher a 4.5 Bark rating.

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Book Review - The Captive Brides Collection by Susan Page Davis, Cynthia Hickey, Jennifer AlLee, Angela Breidenbach, Darlene Franklin, Patty Smith Hall, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Lucy Thompson, Gina Welborn

12/28/2018

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Genre:
Historical Romance

The Captive Brides Collection
by Susan Page Davis, Cynthia Hickey, Jennifer AlLee,
Angela Breidenbach, Darlene Franklin, Patty Smith Hall,
Carrie Fancett Pagels, Lucy Thompson, Gina Welborn

-From Goodreads-

Love Brings Freedom in 9 Historical Romances

Journey along as nine historical women are about to make their escape from some of life’s greatest challenges. Can their captive hearts be freed to dream, to dare, to love?

Love’s Labours Found by Jennifer AlLee - Montserrat, West Indies, 1655
Temperance Simms only wanted a better life. Instead, she finds herself labeled a criminal and sold as an indentured servant. After a kind man saves her life, can Temperance trust that God will turn her sorrow into something beautiful?

His Indentured Bride by Angela Breidenbach - Pennsylvania, 1770-1775
Leaving Scotland for a short indenture with her betrothed, Maire Gree’s contract is sold when disaster strikes her kindly owner, and then extended through cruel circumstances. Can Kirk Lachlan’s service in the American Revolution save her or will she lose love and freedom forever?

The Suspect Bride by Susan Page Davis - Oregon, 1890s
Verity Ames cooks at the restaurant where shy lawyer Jack Whitwell eats lunch daily. As Jack works up courage to ask her for a date, the sheriff walks into the restaurant and arrests her for murder.

His Golden Treasure by Darlene Franklin - Barbary Coast, San Francisco, CA, 1873
Goldie Hatfield grows up on in the Barbary Coast until her guardian demands she pay the cost of her upbringing—or work at her brothel. How far will Pastor Joshua Kerr go to set Goldie free?

Through Stormy Waters by Patty Smith Hall - Atlantic Ocean, 1755
Deported to the British colonies for her father’s crimes, Charlotte Singleton helps Captain Andrew Randell when an epidemic breaks out on the ship. Can two battered hearts find love in the midst of a storm?

Moira’s Quest by Cynthia Hickey - New York, 1869
A quest for revenge ends in a marriage of convenience and a feisty Irish lass discovers that not everything is as it seems as family secrets are revealed. An Irish cop, bent on saving the fallen women of Five Points, New York, finds himself thrust into the role of husband with a woman determined to break down a notorious crime boss. Can these two pull together and find a love bigger than they are?

Love’s Escape by Carrie Fancett Pagels - Virginia, 1850
With her life in peril, Lettie seeks escape from slavery. When Nathan offers to “conduct” her North via an unusual segment on the Underground Railroad, will his efforts help or do them both harm?

Waltzing Matilda by Lucy Thompson - Sydney, Australia, 1821
Henry didn’t plan on a runaway convict masquerading as a shepherd. Or on the woman’s baby. Keeping them safe will cost him his freedom—or will it?

A Score to Settle by Gina Welborn - On the Missouri River, 1870
For JoJo the kiss was a means to an end—she wanted his wallet. For Cyrus her kiss changed everything. He vows to help her escape the snake oil salesman she works for, but exposing the man’s lies may mean settling a score at a cost neither JoJo nor Cyrus can pay.

ISBN-13: 978-1683223368

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Susan P. Davis

Jennifer AlLee

Darlene Franklin

Carrie F. Pagels

Gina Welborn

Cynthia Hickey

Angela Breidenbach

Patty S. Hall

Lucy Thompson

Captivity comes in many forms...but so does love...

Love's Labours Found by Jennifer AlLee
What a great way to start off this themed collection. Not only is this the oldest setting (1655) but it features a girl who signs up to be an indentured servant but finds herself sold into awful circumstances. But through it all she never gives up, through her faith and determination she finds love and a family.

His Indentured Bride by Angela Breidenbach
The bride in this story has got to be about the most patient in the world. I felt annoyed on her behalf as circumstances, and other people, caused her to have to wait so long for her day in church. Lots of Scottish accents, a dastardly villain, and the beginning of the Revolution made this one exciting story.

The Suspect Bride by Susan Page Davis
Probably my favorite, at least so far, in the collection, this story had the flavor of the Old West with a dash of mystery thrown in for good measure. In only a few short pages I really began to care for Verity and Jack. On the other hand there were 2 other characters I wanted slap for stupidity and meanness.

His Golden Treasure by Darlene Franklin
This was one of those stories that makes you stop and think. To remember that some people have made choices based on desperation, to ponder the compassion of Jesus, and to evaluate whether your Christian witness is one of hope or of judgment. All of this against the backdrop of the Barbary Coast.

Through Stormy Waters by Patty Smith Hall
I think this is probably my second favorite in the collection. There are a lot of historical details showing how far the justice system has come since the 1700s. I also loved the shipboard setting, complete with a handsome captain seeking atonement. Will their romance come to and end once they dock in America?

Moira's Quest by Cynthia Hickey
There was a lot to like about this novella! For starters who wouldn't love a spunky Irish miss as the heroine? This story had quite a bit of action and danger which kept it moving at a pretty fast clip. The author did a great job bringing to life the perils of living in Five Points, a slum New York City.

Love's Escape by Carrie Fancett Pagels
This was a great story to include in a collection about women held captive. Slavery, no matter the color of the person, really is the epitome of captivity. I enjoyed the little details about traveling north on the Underground Railroad, that travel being accomplished by the usual, and some very unusual, methods.

Waltzing Matilda by Lucy Thompson
When reading the inside flaps of the book I think this was the story I looked forward to the most. I've always been a little fascinated with the wildness of Australia, both in its landscape and its founding. This novella had everything you could wish for in a story set in the convict days of Australia.

A Score To Settle by Gina Welborn
What a way to conclude this collection of novellas! Danger, escape plans, a dastardly villain, and several weeks on a riverboat. Not to mention a hero who steps out of his predictable comfort zone for the hurting girl who stole his wallet! This story was definitely another favorite in the collection.

Overall
I've read a number of Barbour's historical romance novella collections and I think this one probably had some of the most varied stories. From indentured servants headed to America to a girl working in the infamous Barbary coast, from the Underground Railroad to an Australian convict. From 9 very talented Christian fiction authors The Captive Brides Collection is a great addition to Barbour's lineup and one of my favorites.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Captive Brides Collection by Susan Page Davis, Cynthia Hickey, Jennifer AlLee, Angela Breidenbach, Darlene Franklin, Patty Smith Hall, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Lucy Thompson, Gina Welborn a 4.5 Bark rating.

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Book Review - Kappy King And The Pie Kaper by Amy Lillard

12/27/2018

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Genre:
Amish / Mystery

Kappy King And The Pie Kaper
An Amish Mystery book 3
by Amy Lillard

-From Amazon-

Kathryn “Kappy” King’s skill at making
kapps for the Amish women of Blue Sky, Pennsylvania, is unparalleled. But she’s
also dangerously good at discovering
dark truths beneath this peaceful valley…

When an “accident” puts beloved bishop's wife Alma Miller in a coma, many in Blue Sky are quick to blame struggling widow Frannie Lehman. Both women are the best bakers around, but for years Alma’s boysenberry pies have been more award-winning—and profitable—than Frannie’s. And with Alma out of this fall’s county festival, Frannie’s pie finally wins first prize. But when Alma dies and Frannie’s children fall victim to gossip and bullying, Kappy is determined to uncover the real truth.

Soon Kappy and her outcast friend Edie have their hands full of odd clues. What do Alma’s strange last words mean? Why would someone break into her house just to steal a quilt? Who is the mysterious new piemaker in town—and why is she still in Blue Sky after losing the festival competition? When long-buried family secrets and contested legacies start getting into the mix, Kappy and Edie must work fast before another victim gets a deadly pie in the face…

ISBN-13: 978-1420143010

Is this pie recipe actually to die for?

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Amy Lillard

Author Website

I've been looking forward to another adventure with Kappy, Edie, and Jimmy, since I read the final pages in the last Amish Mystery book. The three of them, and Elmer the puppy, have quite captured my heart with their amateur sleuthing in their Amish community. A place, I might add that most people would consider to be the LAST place for murder. But murder has struck three times in Blue Sky and it has never been quite so tasty as in Kappy King And The Pie Kaper.

When I sat down with my copy I honestly thought I would finish it the next day. Yeah, well, that didn't happen. I kept telling myself “just one more page” and “just one more chapter” and before I knew it I was turning the last page. I just HAD to know if my suspicions were correct and if I was right about who the killer was.

Amy Lillard has a really winner with this series that is half Amish fiction and half cozy mystery. I've enjoyed each of the three books immensely and I very much look forward to further Kappy adventures, that, and her crazy words-of-the-day...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Kappy King And The Pie Kaper by Amy Lillard a 4.5 Bark rating.

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Book Review - The Reckoning At Gossamer Pond by Jaime Jo Wright

12/26/2018

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Genre:
Suspense / Time-Slip

The Reckoning At Gossamer Pond
by Jaime Jo Wright

-From Amazon-

For over a century, the town of Gossamer Grove has thrived on its charm and midwestern values, but Annalise Forsythe knows painful secrets, including her own, hover just beneath the pleasant facade. When a man is found dead in his run-down trailer home, Annalise inherits the trailer, along with the pictures, vintage obituaries, and old revival posters covering its walls. As she sorts through the collection, she's wholly unprepared for the ramifications of the dark and deadly secrets she'll uncover.

A century earlier, Gossamer Grove has been stirred into chaos by the arrival of controversial and charismatic twin revivalists. The chaos takes a murderous turn when Libby Sheffield, working at her father's newspaper, receives an obituary for a reputable church deacon hours before his death. As she works with the deacon's son to unravel the mystery behind the crime, it becomes undeniably clear that a reckoning has come to town--but it isn't until another obituary arrives that they realize the true depths of the danger they've waded into.

Two women, separated by a hundred years, must uncover the secrets within the borders of their own town before it's too late and they lose their future--or their very souls.

ASIN: B079C1ND2S

Dark secrets from the past merge with the present...

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Jaime Jo Wright

Author Website

I just finished The Reckoning At Gossamer Pond a little while ago and I'm still digesting what I read. I have to confess that it isn't as often as it should be that I find a story's message to be of just as much importance as the entertainment value. Jaime Jo Wright has penned a truly moving story with a powerful message.

I have to admit that after the initial 'whoa!' moment it did take me a little bit to get into the historical thread. It was a little harder for me to connect with the historical characters than it was for the contemporary characters. But don't get me wrong, I LOVED this book! The parallels between the past and present were delightfully spooky.

Creepy. Eerie. Chilling. All of those words describe The Reckoning At Gossamer Pond to a 'T'. Not only are the dark secrets, past and present, enough to make you want to leave a light on but the overtones of Poe add an extra icy chill skittering up and down the spine.

If you love a good suspense story but can't decide between a contemporary or historical setting, why not try both? You really can't go wrong with one of Jaime Jo Wright's books! But beware of a tapping, rapping, on your chamber door...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives The Reckoning At Gossamer Pond by Jaime Jo Wright a 4.5 Bark rating.

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Celebrate Blog Tour - Catching Christmas by Terri Blackstock + Review & Guest Post & Giveaway

12/26/2018

4 Comments

This Year, Christmas Comes Just in Time
As a first-year law associate, Sydney Batson knows she will be updating her resume by New Year’s if she loses her current court case. So when her grandmother gets inexplicably ill while she’s in court, Sydney arranges for a cab to get her to the clinic.

The last thing cab driver Finn Parrish wants is to be saddled with a wheelchair-bound old lady with dementia. But because Miss Callie reminds him of his own mother, whom he failed miserably in her last days, he can’t say no when she keeps calling him for rides. Once a successful gourmet chef, Finn’s biggest concern now is making his rent, but half the time Callie doesn’t remember to pay him. And as she starts to feel better, she leads him on wild goose chases to find a Christmas date for her granddaughter.

When Finn meets Sydney, he’s quite sure that she’s never needed help finding a date. Does Miss Callie have an ulterior motive, or is this just a mission driven by delusions? He’s willing to do whatever he can to help fulfill Callie’s Christmas wish. He just never expected to be a vital part of it.

Genre: Christian Fiction, Romance, Christmas
Release Date: October 9, 2018

Click here to purchase your copy.

My Review

Can they help an elderly woman get her Christmas wish?

To say that I am only used to Terri Blackstock's suspense novels would be an understatement. I had NO idea that she ever stepped out of that genre. But, when I saw that she was the author of Catching Christmas I thought I would take the chance and step out of my usual limit on reading only a select few holiday-themed books during the season. I'm glad I did.

Catching Christmas is sweet, funny, poignant, and a bit of a tear-jerker. Believe me, you'll run the gamut of emotions at the hands of Terri Blackstock's delightful characters. And if you've ever loved someone with dementia etc. this book will be particularly touching.

The characters in this book are truly something else. I fell in love with the blunt wanna-be-gruff-but-is-really-a-softy Finn right away. Sidney took me a little longer to warm up to but just about anyone can understand the sheer pressure of caring for an elderly relative while trying to hold down a demanding full-time job. And then there's Callie, your heart just goes out to her as she faces declining health while trying to remember “where are my manners?” She's a sweet lady with a faith as big as the ocean, a faith that reaches out and touches the granddaughter she loves and the hurting cabbie she takes into her heart.

Catching Christmas is a fairly quick read but it's a story that will linger long after the wrapping paper has been thrown away and the twinkle lights have been put away for another year...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Catching Christmas by Terri Blackstock a 4.5 Bark rating.

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

Guest Post

from Terri Blackstock

Enjoy this premium excerpt from Catching Christmas
https://aerbook.com/books/-128993.html?utm_source=pubpage

To get you in the Christmas mood, here’s a holiday playlist:
“White Christmas” sung by Bing Crosby
“I Heard the Bells” sung by MercyMe
“Light of the World” sung by Lauren Daigle
“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” sung by Amy Grant
“Don’t Save it All for Christmas Day” sung by Avalon
“Till the Season Comes ‘Round Again” sung by the Katinas

-Terri Blackstock-

Terri Blackstock

Terri Blackstock has sold over seven million books worldwide and is a New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author. She is the award-winning author of Intervention, Vicious Cycle, and Downfall, as well as such series as Cape Refuge, Newpointe 911, the SunCoast Chronicles, and the Restoration Series. Catching Christmas is her first Christmas romance.

Visit her website at www.terriblackstock.com
Facebook: tblackstock
Twitter: @terriblackstock

It's Time For A Giveaway!

To celebrate her tour, Terri is giving away a grand prize of a
finished copy of Catching Christmas and a Christmas Tree Ornament!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway!
Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/d776/catching-christmas-celebration-tour-giveaway

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December 18
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Merry Christmas!

12/25/2018

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Book Review - Lone Star Christmas Witness by Margaret Daley

12/24/2018

0 Comments

Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Lone Star Christmas Witness
Lone Star Justice book 5
(Love Inspired Suspense)
by Margaret Daley

-From Amazon-

To protect a child witness
Lone Star Justice must prevail

With a killer at large, Texas Ranger Taylor Blackburn must safeguard little Ben Markham—the sole survivor of a mass shooting. But allowing Ben and his beautiful aunt, Sierra Walker, into his life is riskier than Taylor imagined. While he can distract Ben with Christmas planning, Taylor can’t ignore how Sierra makes him feel. The only thing harder than protecting them is guarding his own heart…

ISBN-13: 978-1335490780

Will a killer silence the only witness...?

I've enjoyed the Lone Star Justice mini-series as each one has released over the last few years. I have to say that Lone Star Christmas Witness is Margaret Daley's best yet! You are dropped right into the action on page one and are taken on a wild ride from there on. Just when you think you've got it all figured out, you don't. I had a hard time putting the book down and found myself still reading into the wee hours of the morning until even the proverbial toothpicks couldn't keep my eyes open.

This Book received a 5 Bark rating.

Margaret Daley

Author Website

In addition to non-stop action and danger, plus a budding romance, Lone Star Christmas Witness is also very much a story of loss and the slow road from tragedy toward healing. So if you enjoy a good romantic suspense that also tugs at the heart you really should check out Margaret Daley's latest chilling Lone Star Justice novel, it's a good one!

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Lone Star Christmas Witness by Margaret Daley a 5 Bark rating.

0 Comments

E-Book Review - Edge Of Peril by Christy Barritt

12/24/2018

0 Comments

Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Edge Of Peril
Fog Lake Mysteries book 1
by Christy Barritt

-From Goodreads-

When evil descends like fog on a mountain community, no one feels safe.

After hearing about a string of murders in a Smoky Mountain town, journalist Harper Jennings realizes a startling truth. She knows who may be responsible—the same person who tried to kill her three years ago. Now Harper must convince the cops to believe her before the killer strikes again.

Sheriff Luke Wilder returned to his hometown, determined to keep the promise he made to his dying father. The sleepy tourist area with a tragic past hadn’t seen a murder in decades—until now. Keeping the community safe seems impossible as darkness edges closer, threatening to consume everything in its path.

As The Watcher grows desperate, Harper and Luke must work together in order to defeat him. But the peril around them escalates, making it clear the killer will stop at nothing to get what he wants.

ASIN: B07KDZ61HL

Evil lurks in the shadows of Fog Lake...

If you are looking for a wild ride where little is as it seems and very few people are as they first appear, where a diabolical hides in plain sight within a seemingly charming mountain town, Edge Of Peril will be a sure hit for you.

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

Christy Barritt

Author Website

I freely confess that I am a Christy Barritt fan, have been for several years, so it really wasn't a big surprise when I couldn't even wait a few days after downloading this book to my Kindle before I just HAD to pick it up and read it. Edge Of Peril was every bit as good as anticipated and Christy Barritt kept me guessing and second guessing myself from beginning to end. I finally had the killer narrowed down to two suspects but for the life of me I couldn't decide between them, turned out one of them was the right person which was a good thing because I was really starting to question my powers of deduction.

Dark, gritty, and delightfully chilling, Edge of Peril is another great read from one of the best authors of faith-filled romantic suspense. So, step into the foggy night to hunt for a killer...that is, if you dare....

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Edge Of Peril by Christy Barritt a 4 Bark rating.

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2018 Reading Year In Review

Reading Year In Review

Book Review - A Rumored Fortune by Joanna Davidson Politano

A Rumored Fortune
by Joanna Davidson Politano

Book Review - A Secret To Die For by Lisa Harris

A Secret To Die For
by Lisa Harris

Book Review - Caught By Surprise by Jen Turano

Caught By Surprise
Apart From The Crowd book 3
by Jen Turano

Book Review - Dead Drift by Dani Pettrey

Dead Drift
Chesapeake Valor book 4
by Dani Pettrey

Book Review - Lady Of A Thousand Treasures by Sandra Byrd

Lady Of A Thousand Treasures
The Victorian Ladies book 1
by Sandra Byrd

Book Review - In Too Deep by Lynn H. Blackburn

In Too Deep
Dive Team Investigations book 2
by Lynn H. Blackburn

Book Review - Who I Am With You by Robin Lee Hatcher

Who I Am With You
A Legacy Of Faith Novel book 1
by Robin Lee Hatcher

Book Review - The Captive Brides Collection by Susan Page Davis, Cynthia Hickey, Jennifer AlLee, Angela Breidenbach, Darlene Franklin, Patty Smith Hall, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Lucy Thompson, Gina Welborn

The Captive Brides Collection
by Susan Page Davis, Cynthia Hickey, Jennifer AlLee,
Angela Breidenbach, Darlene Franklin, Patty Smith Hall,
Carrie Fancett Pagels, Lucy Thompson, Gina Welborn

Book Review - Kappy King And The Pie Kaper by Amy Lillard

Kappy King And The Pie Kaper
An Amish Mystery book 3
by Amy Lillard

Book Review - The Reckoning At Gossamer Pond by Jaime Jo Wright

The Reckoning At Gossamer Pond
by Jaime Jo Wright

Celebrate Blog Tour - Catching Christmas by Terri Blackstock + Review & Guest Post & Giveaway

Guest Post

-Terri Blackstock-

It's Time For A Giveaway!

Blog Stops

Merry Christmas!

Book Review - Lone Star Christmas Witness by Margaret Daley

Lone Star Christmas Witness
Lone Star Justice book 5
(Love Inspired Suspense)
by Margaret Daley

E-Book Review - Edge Of Peril by Christy Barritt

Edge Of Peril
Fog Lake Mysteries book 1
by Christy Barritt

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Reading Year In Review

A Rumored Fortune by Joanna Davidson Politano

A Secret To Die For by Lisa Harris

Caught By Surprise Apart From The Crowd book 3 by Jen Turano

Dead Drift Chesapeake Valor book 4 by Dani Pettrey

Lady Of A Thousand Treasures The Victorian Ladies book 1 by Sandra Byrd

In Too Deep Dive Team Investigations book 2 by Lynn H. Blackburn

​Who I Am With YouA Legacy Of Faith Novel book 1by Robin Lee Hatcher

The Captive Brides Collection by Susan Page Davis, Cynthia Hickey, Jennifer AlLee,Angela Breidenbach, Darlene Franklin, Patty Smith Hall,Carrie Fancett Pagels, Lucy Thompson, Gina Welborn

Kappy King And The Pie KaperAn Amish Mystery book 3by Amy Lillard

The Reckoning At Gossamer Pondby Jaime Jo Wright

Guest Post

-Terri Blackstock-

It's Time For A Giveaway!

Blog Stops

Lone Star Christmas WitnessLone Star Justice book 5(Love Inspired Suspense)by Margaret Daley

Edge Of Peril Fog Lake Mysteries book 1 by Christy Barritt

Author

Follow Us

Get new posts by email:

Archives

Categories

A Rumored Fortune
by Joanna Davidson Politano

A Secret To Die For
by Lisa Harris

Caught By Surprise
Apart From The Crowd book 3
by Jen Turano

Dead Drift
Chesapeake Valor book 4
by Dani Pettrey

Lady Of A Thousand Treasures
The Victorian Ladies book 1
by Sandra Byrd

In Too Deep
Dive Team Investigations book 2
by Lynn H. Blackburn

Who I Am With You
A Legacy Of Faith Novel book 1
by Robin Lee Hatcher

The Captive Brides Collection
by Susan Page Davis, Cynthia Hickey, Jennifer AlLee,
Angela Breidenbach, Darlene Franklin, Patty Smith Hall,
Carrie Fancett Pagels, Lucy Thompson, Gina Welborn

Kappy King And The Pie Kaper
An Amish Mystery book 3
by Amy Lillard

The Reckoning At Gossamer Pond
by Jaime Jo Wright

Lone Star Christmas Witness
Lone Star Justice book 5
(Love Inspired Suspense)
by Margaret Daley

Edge Of Peril
Fog Lake Mysteries book 1
by Christy Barritt