Category: November-2016

Genre:
Historical

From This Moment
by Elizabeth Camden

-From the back cover-

STELLA WEST'S ARTISTIC TALENT made her the toast of London, but when her beloved sister dies under mysterious circumstances she abandons everything and heads to Boston. With single-minded determination she fights to pierce the ring of secrecy her sister's death. Upon meeting Romulus White, a publisher with connections into every important power circle in the city, she quickly realizes he could be a valuable ally navigating Boston society.

Romulus has been pursuing Stella for years to create art for his magazine. Her luminous illustrations are the missing piece he needs to propel his magazine to the forefront of the industry, and he will stop at nothing to get her on board.

Sparks fly the instant they join forces, but Romulus is unsettled by the unwelcome attraction he feels toward Stella, fearing she might be the one woman who could disrupt his hard-won independence. He may have finally met his match in Stella, but is helping her solve the mystery of her sister's death worth the risk to his publishing empire?

ISBN-13: 978-0764217210

Is Boston big enough for them both?

Elizabeth Camden has quickly become one of my absolute favorite historical fiction authors and I eagerly await each new release. From the moment I first saw that gorgeous cover I wanted to read From This Moment, and when I found out that there was a suspense thread running through the story I was even more excited.

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Elizabeth Camden

From This Moment is about some very flawed characters, not the ones we usually call flawed, but genuinely flawed people who make some real and pretty big mistakes. They jump to conclusions, push their way through things like a battering ram, are totally hardheaded, lash out at each other, and just generally make all of the relationship mistakes that real people actually do. There were times I really didn't like any of them, but that just proved to me how talented Elizabeth Camden is in her craft. I was totally involved in the characters lives, riding the emotional rollercoasters, and just immersed in the setting. That's one of the things that I love about this author, her ability to completely immerse the reader into, not only the story, but also into the very time period itself.

From This Moment is a wonderful historical romance with a dash of mystery, a tense showdown with the villain, and one that will make readers delve down into our own often poor reactions to those closest to us.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives From This Moment by Elizabeth Camden a 4.5 Bark rating.

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Book Review - Deadly Encounter by DiAnn Mills

11/28/2016

Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Deadly Encounter
FBI Task Force book 1
by DiAnn Mills

-From the back cover-

IS IT MERE COINCIDENCE,
OR PART OF A CAREFULLY ORCHESTRATED PLAN?

Airport ranger volunteer Stacy Broussard expected a peaceful Saturday morning ride around the perimeter of Houston's airport. What she encounters instead is a brutal homicide and a baffling mystery. Next to the body is an injured dog, the dead man's motorcycle, and a drone armed with a laser capable of taking down a 747.
Though FBI Special Agent Alex LeBlanc sees a clear-cut case of terrorism, his past has taught him to be suspicious of everyone, even witnesses. Even bleeding-heart veterinarians like Stacy. But when her gruesome discovery is only the first in a string of incidents that throw her life into a tailspin, Alex begins to wonder if Stacy was targeted. As a health emergency endangers Stacy's community and the task force pulls in leads from all directions, Alex and Stacy must work together to prevent another deadly encounter.

ISBN-13: 978-1496410979

Certain death lies on all sides...

I've been a fan of DiAnn Mills' exciting and fast-paced romantic suspense for several years now. Eagerly awaiting each new title, reading the blurbs online, admiring the cover images, and then finally getting the chance to sit down and read the story.

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

DiAnn Mills

Deadly Encounter is yet another thrilling story from this talented author. There were a couple of characterizations that made me a little uncomfortable but they didn't stop me from becoming totally involved in the story. I think one of my favorite things about Deadly Encounter was Stacy's work with animals as a veterinarian, which is a profession you don't see a lot of in suspense. I'm a sucker for pets in a story, especially dogs and cats. Make no mistake, this book is a romantic suspense novel in every sense of the genre. There were times when I almost tripped over my own fingers flipping pages trying to find out what happened next.

DiAnn Mills has the beginning of another winning series in Deadly Encounter, and I'm looking forward to book 2 in the FBI Task Force series as I know it is sure to be just as good.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Deadly Encounter by DiAnn Mills a 4 Bark rating.

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Book Review - Wait Until Dark by Christy Barritt

11/28/2016

Genre:
Romantic Suspense

Wait Until Dark
Carolina Moon book 3
by Christy Barritt

-From the back cover-

Wait Until Dark

A woman grieving broken dreams. A man struggling to regain memories. A secret entrenched in folklore dating back two centuries.

Antiquarian Felicity French has no clue the trouble she's inviting in when she rescues a man outside her grandma's old plantation house during a treacherous snowstorm. All she wants is to nurse her battered heart and wounded ego, as well as come to terms with her past. Now she's stuck inside with a stranger sporting an old bullet wound and forgotten hours.

Coast Guardsman Brody Joyner can't remember why he was out in such perilous weather, how he injured his head, or how a strange key got into his pocket. He also has no idea why his pint-sized savior has such a huge chip on her shoulder. He has no choice but to make the best of things until the storm passes.

Brody and Felicity's rocky start goes from tense to worse when danger closes in. Who else wants the mysterious key that somehow ended up in Brody's pocket? Why? The unlikely duo quickly becomes entrenched in an adventure of a lifetime, one that could have ties to local folklore and Felicity's ancestors. But sometimes the past leads to darkness . . . darkness that doesn't wait for anyone.

ISBN-13: 978-1534601260

They're future depends on the past...

This Book received a 5 Bark rating.

Christy Barritt

It doesn't get any better than Wait Until Dark! First, it's a Christy Barritt book which makes it a must read in my estimation. Second, secrets of the past and pirate tales?! You just can't beat that combination!

I've eagerly looked forward to each book in the Carolina Moon series, the stories connected but each stands on its own, and none of them have disappointed. They have a little bit more of a romantic suspense feel to them, which I love. A little darker, a little more chilling, and definitely a lot of fun to read! Believe me, Wait Until Dark has it all! From a delightfully mysterious cover to some great quirky characters, and lots of tense moments that will totally keep you on the edge of your seat breathlessly turning pages.

Wait Until Dark is a definite MUST read for romantic suspense fans and Christy Barritt fans. I'll warn you, though...you won't be able to put it down even if you try...

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Wait Until Dark by Christy Barritt a 4.5 Bark rating.

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Monday Movie - Bluebeard's Eighth Wife

11/28/2016

Bluebeard's Eighth Wife
starring
Claudette Colbert ■ Gary Cooper

(1938)

He married in haste and repeated in pleasure!

US multi-millionaire Michael Barndon marries his eight wife, Nicole, the daughter of a broken French Marquis. But she doesn't want to be only a number in the row of his ex-wives and starts her own strategy to "tame" him.

The 1930's featured some very funny movies and Bluebeard's Eighth Wife is one of the funniest. I first watched this movie because of Gary Cooper and because I enjoyed Claudette Colbert so much in It Happened One Night. I spied a few familiar faces in this movie like a very young David Niven and a gentleman who often appeared with Fred Astaire, Edward Everett Horton.

One of the things I found interesting while reading about this movie, after watching it this latest time, is that Claudette Colbert, who plays a French girl in this film, was actually born in France (she left when she was 3). And of course, Gary Cooper is notable as one of the most famous people born in Montana.

This movie is a hilarious battle of the sexes when Claudette determines to be Gary's LAST wife. It all starts with striped pj's and ends in a straitjacket. So fans of black/white comedies and classic movies should grab a bowl of popcorn and enjoy this funny movie.

And don't forget...A.I.K.A.V.O.L.S.....

Principal Cast

Claudette Colbert ... Nicole De Loiselle
Gary Cooper ... Michael Brandon
Edward Everett Horton ... The Marquis De Loiselle
David Niven ... Albert De Regnier
Elizabeth Patterson ... Aunt Hedwige
Herman Bing ... Monsieur Pepinard
Warren Hymer ... Kid Mulligan

Filming Location(s)

Paramount Studios, Hollywood, Los Angeles, California

Quotes

Nicole de Loiselle: I wish someone would tell you what I really think of you.

85 Minutes

DVD

6-MOVIE
DVD COLLECTION

Notice: I have an affiliate with Amazon so if you purchase a movie through the links provided I will receive a small kickback.

Thanks to IMDB.com for most of the info for this movie.

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Thanksgiving 2016

11/24/2016

from

1 Comment

WORD Wednesday 11-23-16

11/23/2016

11 And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto
the Lord; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward
Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised
the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid.

Ezra 3:11 KJV

1 Comment

Prism Book Tour - My Father's House by Rose Chandler Johnson Grand Finale + Giveaway

11/21/2016

2 Comments

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for My Father's House By Rose Chandler Johnson

Suspense and romance mix in this inspiring story. We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops, go back and check them out now...

Launch - The Inspiration for My Father's House

The setting needed to play a critical part in the story as well. So, with my roots firmly planted in Georgia, I modeled my fictional town after so many small Southern towns, and I set in some of my love of nature. Being a Southerner, I had definite ideas about elements I needed for this story to come alive. Besides fascinating characters and a distinctive setting, there had to be a little crazy, eccentric, and some downright meanness, mixed with suspense, romance, and lots of southern charm. And if the story makes you long for dirt roads and blackberry picking, shade trees and front porch visiting, then I’ve done my job.

The Silver Dagger Scriptorium - A Sketch of Lily Rose’s Father, Michael Cates

Lily Rose’s relationship with her father sets the stage for her life and the story, My Father’s House. Although the reader gets only glimpses of her “Daddy”, they are telling glimpses which reveal who he is. Michael Cates takes the dominant role in his daughter’s early life and development. In that brief first chapter, the reader learns he takes particular pride and joy in his wife and daughter.

Wishful Endings - Excerpt

I followed him out onto the porch and watched him walk to the truck, stop, and turn. He fixed his gaze on me, and I knew he didn’t want to leave. I smiled then, and he nodded before getting in and backing down the driveway. He waved, and something about his smile and the gentle blue of the sky strengthened my heart. I watched him disappear down the street before I turned and walked back inside.

Falling Leaves - Excerpt

Something about his presence excited me. Maybe it was the way he lingered beside me and caressed me with his eyes. It was hard for me not to stare at his smooth olive hands as they moved back and forth around our table.

I suppose I got caught up in the moment because without thinking, I asked, “Would you take our picture?” I held the camera out at arm’s length to the dreamy eyed waiter. I smiled before saying “please” as sweet as pie.

Rockin' Book Reviews - Review

"What an excellent story! I really enjoyed reading it. . . . It was a good clean story with lots of action and suspense. I would recommend this book to all readers."

Tell Tale Book Reviews - Character Sketch of Lily Rose Cates

This dark-haired, green-eyed, slip of a girl is the protagonist of My Father’s House and the emotional heart of the story. The reader is drawn into her story that pulses with life, and can’t help feeling her joys, fears, and hopes. The development of Lily Rose’s character is central to the novel. As a child, she was nurtured and sheltered from the harsher realities of life. Innocent, good-hearted, with no experience with the evils of the world, the reader watches her struggle with her own naiveté and illusions of love.

Jessica and Gracie's Tree - The Antagonist and His Foil in My Father’s House

Sam is a foil to Manuel. Whereas Manny is controlling and harsh, Sam is soft spoken, easy-going and kind. Lily associates Manuel with cars, work, and high powered city living; whereas she constantly associates Sam with the animals, the outdoors, and community.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway below...

My Father's House by Rose Chandler Johnson Inspirational Romantic Suspense Paperback & ebook, 314 pages March 13th 2016 Growing up, life is idyllic for Lily Rose Cates due to her one constant – her father’s love. But in her sixteenth summer, all that changes without warning with her father’s sudden death. There begins Lily’s struggle to find herself and a life she thinks is gone forever. Marriage to her prince charming promises fulfillment, but their happily-ever-after barely survives the honeymoon. Beneath the sophisticated façade lies a brooding man who hides dark secrets. When all Lily’s illusions of happiness shatter, she must make hard choices – abandon her husband or risk losing much more than her marriage. She flees their home in Detroit and sets out on a fearful journey to a house in Georgia that her husband knows nothing about. In spite of heartbreak and regrets, will she find the strength to survive whatever comes? Or will her husband find her and shatter all her hopes . . . again. This is one woman’s compelling tale of love and survival as she finds her way back home to faith and who she’s meant to be . . . in her father’s house.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes and Noble│Book Depository

My Father’s House is Rose’s first novel. Her devotional journal, God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea: Experiencing God in the Midst of Everyday Moments won the Georgia Author of the Year Finalist Award in 2014. It was also awarded the Selah Finalist Award in the same year. Rose enjoys writing for her blog, Write Moments with God and engaging with her readers. A native Georgian, Rose has lived in a suburb of Augusta for the last thirty years. Before retiring from Georgia’s public school system, Rose taught English, French, and ESOL. She is currently an adjunct English instructor at a community college. In addition to reading and writing, Rose enjoys cooking, sewing, gardening, and spending time with her six children and their growing families. And yes, sweet iced tea is her beverage of choice.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest

Tour Giveaway

Copy of MY FATHER'S HOUSE (signed print if US, ebook if outside the US) and a $20 Amazon eGift Card Ends November 26th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

2 Comments

Monday Movie - Nancy Drew

11/21/2016

Nancy Drew
aka Nancy Drew: The Mystery In Hollywood Hills
starring
Emma Roberts

(2007)

Small Town Girl. Big Time Adventure.

Nancy Drew accompanies her father on a business trip to Los Angeles California. Nancy booked an abandoned house for them to stay in hiding the mystery of a movie star's murder from her father as a promise that she would stay out of trouble and be normal. Fitting into high school as a normal teen turns out to be harder than it sounds, for Nancy Drew. She soon befriends a younger boy and determines that the sleuthing world is where she belongs. While snooping through the attic, she finds a letter from the Hollywood star, Dehlia Draycott, written to someone named 'Z'. This leads Nancy on a wild goose chase as she tracks down more clues into the motive behind a decades old murder.

After a 70 year absence Nancy Drew made her return to the Silver Screen to delight and inspire an entirely new generation of girls in sleuthing and in facing everyday challenges.

One similarity between this movie and the 1930's ones is Nancy's age. In both versions she seems to be about 16, and is still in school. If you remember the hardcover books she was 18....but...in the original versions of the very first few books she was actually 16, they aged her two years when they re-edited the books.

So, if you are looking for a super-smart mystery movie, look elsewhere. This Nancy Drew is so over-the-top nerdy it's almost ridiculous. But if you are looking for a tween movie that encourages kids to be smart, resourceful, polite, helpful to those in need, try this one. Nancy Drew is nerdy but she faces high school bullying with grace and dignity...and comes out a true winner in the end.

I actually saw this movie before most of the older 1930's ones. A relative knew how much I loved the old Nancy Drew books so she gave this movie to me as a gift. Every so once in awhile I drag it out, pop it into the DVD player, and sit back to enjoy Nancy Drew as she solves another case....

99 Minutes

Principal Cast

Emma Roberts ... Nancy Drew
Max Thieriot ... Ned Nickerson
Tate Donovan ... Carson Drew
Laura Harring ... Dehlia Draycott (as Laura Elena Harring)
Marshall Bell ... John Leshing
Daniella Monet ... Inga Veinshtein
Kelly Vitz ... Trish
Josh Flitter ... Corky Veinshtein

Filming Location(s)

Pasadena, California
Burbank, California
Hollywood, Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles, California
La Cañada-Flintridge, Calif., (Dehlia Draycott's mansion)
Long Beach, California
Santa Clarita, California

Quotes

[first lines]
Thug: Who are you?
Nancy Drew: Hello. I'm Nancy Drew. It's nice to meet you. May I ask who you are?

Inga: I noticed you were wearing Penny Loafers. Did your podiatrist suggest them are or you being ironic?
Nancy Drew: I like old fashioned things.
Inga: Oh... we've noticed.

Nancy Drew: I wonder who tried to kill us?
Corky: Yeah, I'm wondering that too. In fact, I'm kind of freaking out about it!

Nancy Drew: If you shoot me, that'll leave all kinds of evidence. Really messy.
[thug prepares to strangle her]
Nancy Drew: Strangulation leaves a traceable handprint.

Ned Nickerson: There it is. Just like clockwork.
Nancy Drew: What?
Ned Nickerson: Postpartum depression. You're sad the case is over.
Nancy Drew: That's ridiculous. I'm glad it all worked out.
Ned Nickerson: You're only happy when there is trouble. This I know for sure.

DVD

STREAMING VIDEO

Notice: I have an affiliate with Amazon so if you purchase a movie through the links provided I will receive a small kickback.

Thanks to IMDB.com for most of the info for this movie.

0 Comments

Book Review - Poison by Jordyn Redwood

11/19/2016

Genre:
Medical Thriller

Poison
Bloodline Trilogy book 2
by Jordyn Redwood

-From the back cover-

Five years ago, Keelyn Blake's stepfather took her family hostage, raving about Lucent, a being who forced him to commit unspeakable acts. Some of the family made it out alive; the rest did not. Even Lee Watson, the best of the FBI's hostage negotiators, failed to overcome the man's delusions and end the standoff peacefully.
Now Lucent is back – and he's no hallucination. He has kidnapped Keelyn's niece, and although Keelyn is estranged from her half-sister, Raven, she feels compelled to save what little family she has left. But Raven is nowhere to be found, and when others involved in that fateful day start dying under mysterious circumstances, Keelyn wonders if she and Lee – and their budding relationship – will survive.
Poison follows Proof in the Bloodline Trilogy with another rollercoaster plot that makes it an irresistible adventure for all suspense fiction fans

ISBN-13: 978-0825442124

Evils from the past endanger the future...

Gripping. Intense. Chilling. Gritty. All of those words, and more, apply to Poison, the second book in Jordyn Redwood's spine-tingling Bloodline Trilogy. From the dramatic cover to the very last page Jordyn Redwood holds readers hostage, gasping at each twist and turn, unable to put the book down.

I've totally gotten hooked on this series and the author's writing. There is a bit of a Ted Dekkerish feel in Poison, and the previous book, that I really enjoyed. Darker, suspenseful, and yet, the thread of hope is very evident on each page.

This Book received a 4.5 Bark rating.

Jordyn Redwood

I will admit that couple of characterizations made me a tad uncomfortable BUT I absolutely loved Poison, quickly becoming emotionally invested in the characters lives, and on tenterhooks as to the outcome. Each book can be read standalone but the stories are intertwined enough that I totally can't wait to read book three in this series.

If you are into medical thrillers or slightly grittier Christian fiction I totally recommend checking out Poison and the rest of Jordyn Redwood's heart-stopping Bloodline Trilogy.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives Poison by Jordyn Redwood a 4.5 Bark rating.

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Prism Book Tour - My Father's House by Rose Chandler Johnson + Guest Post & Giveaway

11/18/2016

3 Comments

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

My Father's House
by Rose Chandler Johnson

Growing up, life is idyllic for Lily Rose Cates due to her one constant – her father’s love. But in her sixteenth summer, all that changes without warning with her father’s sudden death. There begins Lily’s struggle to find herself and a life she thinks is gone forever.

Marriage to her prince charming promises fulfillment, but their happily-ever-after barely survives the honeymoon. Beneath the sophisticated façade lies a brooding man who hides dark secrets. When all Lily’s illusions of happiness shatter, she must make hard choices – abandon her husband or risk losing much more than her marriage. She flees their home in Detroit and sets out on a fearful journey to a house in Georgia that her husband knows nothing about.

In spite of heartbreak and regrets, will she find the strength to survive whatever comes? Or will her husband find her and shatter all her hopes . . . again. This is one woman’s compelling tale of love and survival as she finds her way back home to faith and who she’s meant to be . . . in her father’s house.

Inspirational Romantic Suspense
Paperback & ebook, 314 pages
March 13th 2016

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes and Noble│Book Depository

Character Sketch of Lily Rose Cates
(the protagonist of My Father’s House)

Lily Rose, youngest child and only daughter in the Cates family, came into the world during her forty-seven-year-old father’s favorite time of year. It was Easter, and apparently inspired by the beauty of the season, he named her after the lovely flowers. Beloved by her father and brother, and ignored by her clinically depressed mother, Lily Rose is raised by the nanny, Annie Ruth, who became a part of the family when Lily was born. Annie Ruth is unflagging in her devotion to the family and she and Lily have a life-long relationship. From the beginning, the reader senses that Lily is who she is due to this woman’s steadfast guidance and because of her father’s love, and his loss creates a tremendous hole in her heart. Because of her relationship with her father, her heart can only be satisfied by a love relationship marked by kindness, respect, and mutual emotional dependence. This dark-haired, green-eyed, slip of a girl is the protagonist of My Father’s House and the emotional heart of the story. The reader is drawn into her story that pulses with life, and can’t help feeling her joys, fears, and hopes. The development of Lily Rose’s character is central to the novel. As a child, she was nurtured and sheltered from the harsher realities of life. Innocent, good-hearted, with no experience with the evils of the world, the reader watches her struggle with her own naiveté and illusions of love. Her needs and values are continually tested, and she must learn to balance the frequently conflicting aspects of life with her Christian beliefs. She is not without flaws, but her open-hearted vitality makes them forgivable. Although initially depressed and dismayed over her marriage and the disappointments she suffers, her instincts rise up against it. Annie Ruth’s words often come to mind like a true compass showing the way. Lily Rose determines to survive. She demonstrates her bravery time and again on her journey back to faith. Back in Georgia, at her father’s old family home, and in the bosom of a loving community, the fresh air, flowers, and sunshine reflect her vigor and renewal, and we see her blossoming into the woman she was meant to be.

Take the journey with her. It’s a story you’re not likely to forget.

Rose Chandler Johnson

In addition to reading and writing, Rose enjoys cooking, sewing, gardening, and spending time with her six children and their growing families. And yes, sweet iced tea is her beverage of choice.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest

It's Time For A Giveaway!

Copy of MY FATHER'S HOUSE
(signed print if US, ebook if outside the US)
and a $20 Amazon eGift Card
Ends November 26th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Schedule

November 14th
Launch
November 15th
The Silver Dagger Scriptorium
November 16th
Wishful Endings
November 17th
Falling Leaves
November 18th
Rockin' Book Reviews
Tell Tale Book Reviews
November 20th
Jessica and Gracie's Tree
November 21st
Grand Finale

3 Comments

Book Review - End Of The Roadie by Elizabeth Flynn

11/18/2016

Genre:
Police Mystery

End Of The Roadie
A Mystery For D.I. Costello book 2
by Elizabeth Flynn

-From the back cover-

The gig at the Apollo was a triumph.
Apart from the dead body outside
the stage door.

Rock-star Brendan Phelan knows how to thrill a crowd – gunshots and cracking whips punctuate the thudding bass and crashing guitar chords.
But after the show has ended, another shot is fired and Oliver Joplin, long-time roadie, is found lifeless, with a shocked Phelan towering over him.
Detective Inspector Costello is called and quickly discovers Joplin was widely disliked and distrusted. His emails reveal the presence of a shadowy figure stalking the dead man. But who would profit from his death?
Little by little Costello unpicks and tangled web of lies. But secrets have left tongues tied and unless someone breaks the silence, the killer may never be found...

ISBN-13: 978-1782642053

It all starts with a body & a rock star

This Book received a 4 Bark rating.

Elizabeth Flynn

A new generation of British mystery authors have made their way across The Pond much to the delight of fans of the genre. End Of The Roadie is the first book that I've read from the A Mystery For D.I. Costello series but I definitely enjoyed the adventure and also finding out a little bit about British police procedures and even the music industry. Another thing I really liked about it is Elizabeth Flynn's use of British slang, I now have a few more to add to my collection started when I got hooked on Agatha Christie and Mary Stewart. My only word of caution would that this book is more PG because of some language. Other than that, End Of The Roadie was a great police mystery, with a really catchy cover, and made for some great reading on a cold afternoon. If you love books set in England, enjoy a slightly gritty read, or like to curl up with a good mystery, you might just want to check out Elizabeth Flynn's A Mystery For D.I. Costello series.

Tell Tale Book Reviews gives End Of The Roadie by Elizabeth Flynn a 4 Bark rating.

0 Comments

WORD Wednesday 11-16-16

11/16/2016

25 Therefore the Lord hath recompensed me according to my
righteousness; according to my cleanness in his eye sight.

2 Samuel 22:25 KJV

0 Comments

Monday Movie - Nancy Drew And The Hidden Staircase

11/14/2016

Nancy Drew And The Hidden Staircase
starring
Bonita Granville

(1939)

Nancy Drew and Ted Nickerson solve a murder and save two elderly ladies from losing their family home. The old mansion is complete with a moving wall and a hidden staircase.

As far as I know Nancy Drew And The Hidden Staircase would be the last Nancy Drew movie for nearly 70 years. This movie features a Nancy that readers of the old yellow hardbacks won't exactly recognize, I mean Nancy actually forging 'evidence'??? Yep, she sure does! This movie seemed to have elements from more than one of the books, plus plenty of its own adventure and silly comedy.

It's rather a pity this is the last of the Nancy Drew movies starring Bonita Granville, and even more so that Nancy Drew wouldn't make it onto screens until the 70's and then 90's TV shows and the silver screen with the 2007 movie.

For any Nancy Drew fan these 1930's movies are all a must watch. They are a fun look into a time gone by, when The Depression was starting to ease and World War 2 was just around the corner. Enjoy the costumes, the lovely black/white film technology, and especially the perky acting of Bonita Granville as she once again tricks and bamboozles her friend Ted into helping her solve the mystery.

60 Minutes

Principal Cast

Bonita Granville ... Nancy Drew
Frankie Thomas ... Ted Nickerson
John Litel ... Carson Drew
Frank Orth ... Captain Tweedy
Renie Riano ... Effie Schneider
Vera Lewis ... Miss Rosemary Turnbull
Louise Carter ... Miss Floretta Turnbull
William Gould ... Daniel Talbert
George Guhl ... Smitty

Filming Location(s)

Warner Brothers Burbank Studios, Burbank, California

Quotes

Carson Drew: Here's a check for the butcher. Tell him he's been cutting the meat so thin lately it only has one side.
Effie Schneider, the Housekeeper: Yes sir, shall I tell him which side?

Ted Nickerson: [frustratedly] Some day I'm gonna get psychoanalyzed and find out why I'm such a dope.

Captain Tweedy: Smitty, go down to the Turnbull house and put yourself on guard. Find anybody around there, throw 'em out.
Smitty, a Policeman: Single-handed?
Captain Tweedy: Oh, use both hands, I don't care.

Ted Nickerson: [to Nancy] I can only hope you can keep up with me when I start retreatin'.

Nancy Drew: Dad! Ted's in jail again! Come on!

DVD

Notice: I have an affiliate with Amazon so if you purchase a movie through the links provided I will receive a small kickback.

Thanks to IMDB.com for most of the info for this movie.

1 Comment

Prism Blog Tour Grand Finale - A Convenient Christmas Wedding by Regina Scott + Giveaway

11/13/2016

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for A Convenient Christmas Wedding By Regina Scott

Ready for a little early holiday spirit? How about a sweet romance? Find both in this newest release and enjoy the reviews, excerpts and guest posts from the tour...

Launch - Tour Welcome

My latest release, A Convenient Christmas Wedding, is about sharing Christmas with family and friends as well. I hope you’ll enjoy it and share it with those you love.

Backing Books - Review

"This story really pushed hard on the theme of just what a marriage should look like, with both partners helping and respecting each other while still encouraging the other to grow."

I Am A Reader - Brides for the Frontier

Yes, I know, my series is called Frontier Bachelors, but the whole idea started with brides, and a story I heard when I was a girl. You see, the Civil War left thousands of East Coast women without fathers, husbands, and sweethearts, while in pioneer Seattle, loggers, miners, and farmers were pining away for wives. An enterprising young fellow named Asa Mercer decided to unite the two factions. He made two trips, the first time bringing a dozen women to Seattle, the second time bringing around sixty. Nearly all of those women married and became the founding mothers of the Territory.

Christy's Cozy Corners - Review

"I love Christmas stories like this. This is a sweet and clean book that will make you smile as you read. It’s fast-paced and an easy read. Even if you haven’t read the other books in the series, you’ll be able to keep up just fine. I definitely recommend you read A Convenient Christmas Wedding this Christmas season."

Getting Your Read On - Review

"This was such a sweet, gentle romance novel. It was filled with charming characters and scenes that warmed my heart. This is the fifth novel in this series but it can easily stand alone."

Rockin' Book Reviews - Review

"This was such a twist of the normal arrangements for that time period. . . . It was refreshingly clean. There was slight humor and the various characters created were so real and interesting. The scenes described were easily visualized."

Falling Leaves - Excerpt

“Mr. Wallin,” she said, the sound of her thundering heart nearly eclipsing her voice in her ears. “I’m Nora Underhill, and I have a proposal for you.”

He frowned. His brows were a shade darker than his short, light-brown hair. They made a firm slash across his tanned skin. Those green eyes were like chips of jade as he gazed down at her. “A proposal?”

“Yes,” she said, amazed at her own audacity. “An actual proposal. Simon Wallin, I want you to marry me.”

i blog 4 books - Review

"This is a perfect book for readers who enjoy frontier settings, marriage of convenience stories, feisty women, and sweet romance. Highly recommend!"

Mel's Shelves - Review

"I enjoy a good marriage of convenience story and this one fits the bill! It's a heartwarming story that is a perfect read for this time of year!"

Katie's Clean Book Collection - Review

"Watching sweet, hard-working, gentle characters make their ways in life, find satisfaction and happiness, and even love, is so heartening. This book is like drinking a mug of thick, chocolatey hot chocolate on a cold winter's day--it'll warm your insides, melt your heart, and leave you with a contented feeling."

Reading Is My SuperPower - Review

"Fans of marriage-of-convenience stories will find much to love about A Convenient Christmas Wedding. (Plus – isn’t that cover so pretty?!?) Nora is easy to love, and Simon is one of those deliciously brooding-but-good-hearted heroes we all adore. . . . Regina Scott sweeps you away to the Pacific Northwest frontier and gives you a front row seat to a sweet and Christmasy story to cozy up with on a cold winter’s night."

Wishful Endings - Review

"A story with some charming humor, inspiring moments, and lovely romance that is sure to delight inspirational romance readers."

Bookworm Lisa - Review

"This is a feel good book that is perfect for the holidays. . . . While this book starts out as a marriage of convenience, it doesn't take long for the reader to see that they are perfect for each other and it needs to become a romantic relationship. I loved how they seem to find mishap after mishap that throws them into situations where they learn to trust each other and develop affection."

Bookworm Nation - Five Reasons to Agree to a Marriage of Convenience

I wrote more than a dozen Regency romances before I ever wrote my first marriage of convenience story. Since joining the Love Inspired Historical family, however, I find myself embracing the idea. A marriage of convenience is when two people agree to marry with no commitment of love. What makes a good marriage of convenience story is when love starts to grow, despite circumstances and protests from the bride and groom’s hearts.

Heidi Reads... - Review

"I adore a well-written marriage of convenience story, and this one did not disappoint! . . . A sweet holiday romance that's perfect for the season! I've read one of the other books in the series and loved it as well, I'm looking forward to reading the rest!"

The Power of Words - Review

"A Convenient Christmas Wedding is one of my favorite stories in the series, and I just can’t get enough of the Wallin family. Within the Love Inspired line, 5 stars. Highly recommend."

Singing Librarian Books - Review

"Regina Scott has written a cute and sweet holiday romance in her fifth book in the Frontier Bachelors Series, A Convenient Christmas Wedding. . . . I would recommend this novel to readers that have enjoyed Scott’s previous work, as well as those that want a little historical holiday romance."

Christian Chick's Thoughts - Review

"I really enjoyed reading Nora and Simon's story. It reminded me a bit of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers—no, the plot isn't too similar, but the setting is. And I could easily see the Wallin boys fitting in with Seven Brides'Pontipee brothers. . . . I really enjoyed A Convenient Christmas Wedding—it's the perfect book for a winter night."

Tell Tale Book Reviews - How to Have a Pioneer Christmas

For one thing, Christmas celebrations didn’t start until very close to the actual day. Oh, there might be some scurrying around making presents—a hand-knit scarf for Uncle Joe, a new bonnet for the baby—and the goose would have to be plucked days before it went into the oven, but often even the decorating didn’t happen until Christmas Eve.

Don't forget to enter the fabulous giveaway below...

A Convenient Christmas Wedding (Frontier Bachelors #5) by Regina Scott Christian Historical Romance Paperback & ebook, 288 pages November 8th 2016 by Love Inspired The Marriage Agreement Proposing a marriage of convenience to a rugged logger is the boldest move of Nora Underhill's sheltered life. In return for Simon Wallin's protection from her overbearing family, the unassuming seamstress offers prime frontier farmland. But their paper marriage changes when Nora's greedy brother tries to draw her back into a life of drudgery. Her only option: move to Simon's farm, and into the center of his loving, unruly family. Years of shouldering responsibility have left Simon cynical and reserved. But little by little, Nora's warmth opens his shuttered heart to joy. With their marriage claim under threat, can this practical arrangement blossom over the holidays…and become a love for all seasons? Fifth book in the Frontier Bachelors series, following The Bride Ship, Would-Be Wilderness Wife, Frontier Engagement, and Instant Frontier Family. Frontier Bachelors: Bold, rugged, and bound to be grooms.

Other Books in the Series

The Bride Ship (Frontier Bachelors #1) by Regina Scott Christian Historical Romance Paperback & ebook, 288 pages November 1st 2014 by Love Inspired

SWEETHEART REUNION

What was his brother's widow–his first love–doing on a ship full of prospective brides headed out West? Clay Howard had been tasked with escorting the Boston belle home, but he didn't anticipate Allegra being so strong-willed–or that he'd wind up traveling with her just to keep her from leaving without him!

Allegra Banks Howard isn't going to let Clay interfere with her plans for a new life with her daughter on the frontier. True, Allegra needs his wilderness savvy, but if Clay thinks he can rekindle what they once shared, he had better think again. Because risking her heart for a second chance at being his bride isn't something she'll undertake lightly...

Frontier Bachelors: Bold, rugged–and bound to be grooms

Would-Be Wilderness Wife (Frontier Bachelors #2) by Regina Scott Christian Historical Romance Paperback & ebook, 288 pages March 1st 2015 by Love Inspired

The Kidnapped Bride

Drew Wallin's youngest brother is determined to see him married—so he kidnaps Drew a prospective bride. Not only is Catherine Stanway beautiful, but she's a nurse who can help their ailing mother. Drew doesn't have time for distractions—he's too busy watching over his fatherless siblings. Yet he's drawn to this woman who carries loss and pain equal to his own.

Catherine has traveled West to use her nursing skills to save lives, not to find a husband. She knows if she gives in to Drew's matchmaking family, she'll be risking her already bruised heart. But maybe it's time she takes the ultimate risk to win the groom she didn't know she wanted!

Frontier Bachelors: Bold, rugged—and bound to be grooms

Frontier Engagement (Frontier Bachelors #3) by Regina Scott Christian Historical Romance Paperback & ebook, 288 pages August 1st 2015 by Love Inspired

School Bells and Wedding Bells

James Wallin's family is depending on him to find a schoolteacher for their frontier town. Alexandrina Fosgrave seems to be exactly what he needs to help fulfill his father's dream of building a new community. If only James could convince her to accept the position.

Alexandrina has traveled west to seek a fresh start, not to find a groom. But after she's stranded in the wilderness with James, he offers her his hand in marriage to protect her reputation. Both are afraid to fall in love, but maybe an engagement of convenience could make them reconsider…

Frontier Bachelors: Bold, rugged—and bound to be grooms.

Instant Frontier Family (Frontier Bachelors #4) by Regina Scott Christian Historical Romance Paperback & ebook, 288 pages January 5th 2016 by Love Inspired

LITTLE MATCHMAKERS

Maddie O'Rourke's orphaned half brother and half sister have arrived safely in Seattle—with a man they hope she'll wed! Though Michael Haggerty's not the escort she planned for, Maddie allows him to work off his passage by assisting in her bakery…and helping care for her siblings. But she'll never risk her newfound independence by marrying the strapping Irishman—or anyone else.

In New York, Michael ran afoul of a notorious gang. Traveling west was a necessity, not a choice. The longshoreman grew fond of his young charges, and now he's quickly becoming partial to their beautiful sister, too. So when danger follows him, threatening Maddie and the children, he'll do anything to protect them—and the future he hopes to build.

Frontier Bachelors: Bold, rugged–and bound to be grooms