From A Distance by Tamera Alexander

 

Elizabeth Westbrook is in Colorado Territory competing for a job working for a newspaper. Her goal is to be a woman photo journalist. Elizabeth will do anything to get the job. Including scaling mountains. Elizabeth is desirous of capturing the Mesa's with her camera but she needs an escort. Daniel Ranslett would be the perfect escort but he refuses. Daniel values his solitude and no woman is going to talk him into escorting her through treacherous terrain. Will they be able to work out a deal between them?

I enjoyed this story very much. It has sat languishing on my Kindle for far too long. I asked my daughter's mother-in-law to make me a sign for a jar for my To Be Read books. 

She didn't think I could fill it up! So here is my TBR and this is the first book I picked out of it to read. Let's see how many I can get through.

Back to FROM A DISTANCE. I enjoyed the developing relationship between Elizabeth and Daniel. I liked how outspoken Elizabeth was and I really liked her relationship with the former slave that was helping her with her photography. Daniel had demons of his own to work through and I liked how he came to care for both Elizabeth and Josiah. I did feel that the ending was a little rushed, but alas, a book cannot go on forever and needs to be wrapped up at some point. This was a sweet read with a little suspense and danger thrown in. I enjoyed it.

Lost Cause

 

The Lost Lake Locators have been hired by an elderly client to find a lost artifact. When former sheriff Abby Day shows up on the island their client lives on she is greeted by a mansion that is in disrepair. The front door is wide open but nobody seems to be home. Then detective Burke Ulrich shows up. Abby and Burke have worked together before. There is an attraction there, but neither are in a place to act on it. Abby has no need in her life for controlling people and Burke is very controlling. Burke has trust issues where women are concerned so there is no way he would act on his attraction for Abby. Can these two work together to find out the secrets of a buried past or will they both let down the people that count on them the most? 

I loved the creepiness of when Abby first arrived on the island. Fog, mansion in disrepair, nobody around. So perfectly creepy! I liked Burke and Abby's characters. I liked as they opened up to each other their ability to become vulnerable. I loved that even though Abby wasn't close to the Lord she was still willing to help and comfort someone by praying for them and with them. The spiritual lessons learned throughout the story are always much appreciated and real to life. I'm looking forward to the rest of the Lost Lake teams stories! 

Out Of Time by Irene Hannon

 

Cara is an historical anthropologist on sabbatical to collaborate in the translation of some historical journals. Natalie's family has had the journals for years. Written in a vanishing language, Natalie is one of the only people left that can translate the journals into english. But will Cara's plan to translate be thwarted before they even start? When she arrives at Natalie's secluded home all kinds of emergency vehicles are there. What caused Natalie, who is normally healthy, to have a dizzy spell? With mysterious lights in the woods, a reclusive grounds keeper wandering around, will Cara be safe while on sabbatical? And what about Natalie's doting nephew Steven and the local Sheriff Brad? Will either of those men capture Cara's eye? 

Out Of Time was an exciting read! The pace was fast and the mystery was intriguing. The suspects were crawling out of the woodwork! I found it interesting that the author revealed who the bad guy was way before the book ended. But it gave the reader a look into the person's reasoning and showed how the others were duped into never suspecting who it was. I enjoyed the romance that developed. I also enjoyed the interaction that Cara had with her brother Jack and sister Bri. They still have their monthly get-togethers and still keep in close contact even though Jack and Bri have significant others of their own. Out Of Time was an exciting read and a great ending to the Undaunted Courage series. Check out my reviews of those here: Into The Fire and Over The Edge. 

Seven Seconds by Bethany Klassen

 

Clayton is a rising young star on the PBR tour until an accident sidelines him and could potentially ruin his career. Alinda helps out at her family resort and does part-time work at a local coffee shop. Alinda knows she needs to steer clear of Clayton. He is not a believer and Alinda must protect her heart from the charming bull-rider. Can a 7-second bull ride be the means by which the Lord brings Clayton to himself? 

This was such a sweet story. I had all of the feels while reading it. I felt excitement and nervousness each time Clayton got on a bull. I've watched the PBR and so I could vividly imagine each scene. I got teary in several places as a character was going through something tough or emotional. I got all warm and squishy inside as Clayton and Alinda came to care for each other. And I felt victory when the Lord won out over sin! I love reading sweet romances that don't have a lot of angst or drama. I especially love to read a Christian romance that doesn't shy away from sharing the gospel. I definitely recommend Seven Seconds as a feel-good read that will touch your heart and maybe even change your soul. 

In The House Of The Lord by Debbie Viguie

 

Let the parties begin!!! Cindy and the girls are headed to a secluded, undisclosed (per Genie) place to have Cindy's bachelorette party. The guys are headed to Vegas with Kyle (Cindy's brother) as the entertainment planner. Do we really think that either of these parties are going to be without mishap or mayhem? 

Cindy and her group soon find out that they are not alone in the mansion that Genie chose for their gathering. They are soon battling unseen forces and hidden rooms. Kyle has planned a weekend of misery for more than half of the men in the group. Actually at least three of those men would like nothing better than to get rid of Kyle...permanently! Will they all survive their weekend of supposed fun?

So much happens in this one! Switching back and forth between the two parties heightened the suspense as we would leave one party at a crucial moment and jump to the other party in the midst of their own crisis. As always there was humor sprinkled throughout the dialogue that lightened the suspense a bit. This one definitely seemed to have more of a spiritual slant to it, which I'm not mad about. As always I loved all of the characters. Martin! I cannot wait for the last book in the series. The final wrap-up. FOREVER comes out in December I believe. I don't think it will be the end of Cindy and Jeremiah's story, but it will be the end of the Psalm 23 Mysteries. I think there are many spin-offs so I am guessing that they will appear in others. Hang on y'all, I think that we are going to be in for quite a roller-coaster of emotions in the next book! 

I Will Dwell by Debbie Viguie

 

Not much longer and Cindy and Jeremiah will be married. But in the meantime Cindy has acquired a stalker that is ramping up his interest in her. Also a couple of Jeremiah's family members need his help. Once again their lives are in danger and the group becomes more determined to protect those they love. 

Always a 5 star review for this series! I always think well it can't get much better than the last one and always the author surprises me and has me once again unable to put the book down! This had me on the edge of my seat practically the whole time I was reading it! At one point Cindy has a meltdown and I felt every bit of her emotions because they do seem like they can't catch a break. Cindy and Jeremiah are just realizing all of their differences in their faiths. As they navigate those issues along comes the visit from Jeremiah's family and Cindy's stalker. So much danger and so much excitement. As I said, definitely an un-put-downable book! I can't wait for the next one which is supposed to come out sometime this month! I hope soon! If you haven't read this series I would definitely recommend it! Read it and then let's talk!!!

Hidden Legacy by Christina Rost-RELEASE DAY!!

 

ABOUT THE BOOK:

When Emersyn Zucker meets Lucas Bennett, it’s love at first sight. But both harbor family secrets, and their blossoming romance soon gets tangled in a web of deception.

After uncovering her great-grandfather’s connection to a clandestine society known as H & G, Emersyn begins to question everything she’s ever known. Should she embrace the society or distance herself from her family ties and renounce her great-grandfather’s legacy? And if she joins H & G, how would Lucas react to her secret double life?

The mysterious disappearance of a century-old Bible forces Emersyn to choose where her true loyalties lie, because if the ancient text falls into the wrong hands, the consequences could be deadly.

Thrust into the treacherous world of treasure hunting, Emersyn and Lucas embark on a perilous journey where secrets abound—and trust is a luxury Emersyn can’t afford.

Release Day August 5th!

Get your copy today: 

Click here to order your copy of Hidden Legacy today!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Christina Rost is an award-winning author, mother to three amazing children, and is married to her high school sweetheart. While she currently resides in Oklahoma City, she’s lived all over the US, a few years in the UK, and loves to travel. When she isn’t spending time with her family or writing you’ll find her chatting over coffee and perusing antique stores for tattered books.

MY REVIEW:

I loved Emersyn and Lucas's characters! They were both sweet even though they were holding secrets from each other and their families. I feel like they both grew throughout the story. The mystery was exciting and truly had my pulse pumping several times with the danger the characters faced, but also in those steamy kisses they shared! The story kept me turning the pages to find out how everything turned out. It was an exciting read. There were some spiritual aspects to the story, enough for the reader to know that Emersyn and Lucas were both people of faith and that their kisses, while steamy, didn't go any further than they should. I think this book could be read without reading the first in the series, but then you would miss some of the character significance in Hidden Legacy. So go grab Best Seller and read it and then dive into this one. I don't think you will be disappointed in either! 

The Blonde Who Came In From The Cold by Ally Carter

 

Alex and King have known each other since Spy School. They don't like each other. Now they are on a mission together because someone is after them. Will they be able to work together? Trust each other? Find out in this exciting sequel to The Blonde Identity. 

Loved this one! So much excitement. So much banter between characters. So much restrained romance! I truly enjoyed this one a bit more than the first one. I will admit that I got lost sometimes with the changing of timeframes, but no worries as it all wrapped up beautifully. I swear I heard action hero music playing throughout the story as I read! Author Ally Carter is known for her strong female characters and Alex did not disappoint! If you enjoy adventures, things that go boom and a bit of romance you definitely need to check this out! It won't disappoint!

Hidden Legacy by Christina Rost-One more day to launch!

 

Romance + Mystery = Hidden Legacy, your next must-read!

Tropes you’ll love:

 Fake Identities

 Secret Society

 Cinnamon Roll Hero

 Amateur Sleuth

Hidden Legacy  #RomanceMystery

Ready to dive into your next favorite mystery?

Pre-order now and join the adventure!

www.scrivenngs.link/hiddenlegacy

Paperback Available August 5th!

#HiddenLegacy #ChristinaRost #RomanceReaders #BookLaunch #Bookstagram  #KissingBook  #Romance  #MysteryBook

Y'all! Just one more day until this book is out! I can't wait to share my review with you! Come back tomorrow! 

Hidden Legacy by Christina Rost-4 days til release day!

 

 Strike! Love and Mystery Collide in Hidden Legacy 

Get ready to roll into the captivating world of Hidden Legacy! Book 2 of the H & G Mystery Series!

 This fun romance is packed with mystery, love, and unforgettable moments. 

Ready to dive into a story that’ll steal your heart? 

Pre-order now and join the adventure!

www.scrivenngs.link/hiddenlegacy

Paperback Available August 5th!

#HiddenLegacy #ChristinaRost #RomanceReaders #BookLaunch #Bookstagram  #KissingBook  #Romance  #MysteryBook

Y'all! I am enjoying this book so much! I'm so excited for release day on Tuesday! Have you Pre-ordered yet? And if you haven't read the first book go ahead and get that one too! Both are very good!

Hidden Legacy by Christina Rost-5 days!

 

Counting down to the release of Hidden Legacy by Christina Rost!

 This heartfelt romance is packed with mystery, love, and unforgettable moments. 

Ready to dive into a story that’ll steal your heart? Pre-order now and join the adventure!

www.scrivenngs.link/hiddenlegacy

#HiddenLegacy #ChristinaRost #RomanceReaders #BookLaunch #Bookstagram

Getting closer to release day! Make sure you go order your copy today!

Hidden Legacy by Christina Rost-ONE WEEK!

 

ONE WEEK y'all! Have you pre-ordered your copy? I have! And while you're at it go ahead and get book 1 in the series as well! 

ONE WEEK until the big reveal! Get ready to dive into Hidden Legacy, Book 2 of the H & G Mystery Series. Your next romantic adventure awaits! #oneweektogo #bookrelease

Pre-Order now : www.scrivenings.link/hiddenlegacy

Paperback: Available August 5th!

Hidden Legacy by Christina Rost

 Hey All! I'm on the launch team for Hidden Legacy! The second book in the H&G Mystery series. I can't wait to read it!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

When Emersyn Zucker meets Lucas Bennett, it’s love at first sight. But both harbor family secrets, and their blossoming romance soon gets tangled in a web of deception.

Pre-Order now : www.scrivenings.link/hiddenlegacy

Paperback: Available August 5th!

Lost Truth by Susan Sleeman

 

Hayden Kraus is part of the Lost Lake Locators team. They have been hired to find a local man who's son has reported missing. Cadence Vaughn is a reporter looking into her father's death which she has just found out was murder. Both Hayden and Cady are focused on their careers. Hayden needs to control every situation in his life including not falling in love with someone like Cady whom he would risk losing if he were unable to protect her. Cady has no desire to become involved with anyone because she has goals for her career and after her mother left her father and herself what makes Cady think she wouldn't do the same thing? Can they each learn to trust that God has control of their lives and step out in faith?

Such an exciting read! As always! I loved Hayden and Cady's relationship. I thought they fit perfectly together and I also loved how they learned to tentatively lean into their trust in God to work in all situations. The mystery was exciting and had me hoping the good guys would win! The subject material was a hard one for me to read. But I knew that the bad guys would get their comeuppance and the author did not disappoint in that area! This team is developing in my affections and with each story I enjoy them more and more. 

Finale by Stephanie Garber

 

The final book in the Caraval series(or is it?). Caraval is over, but now the sisters are playing a game of life and death. Secrets that have long been buried are coming to the surface. The fates are wreaking havoc and Tella and Scarlet must figure out how to kill the strongest fate of all. Will love win in the end or are the sisters destined to lose this final battle? 

Holy Moly! This book has 489 pages! That's 489 pages people! It was LONG! It took me a month to get through it. Not because it was boring in any way. Not because it was slow. Not because it didn't keep my interest. Y'all, this has been a busy busy month! I love the world that the author has created. I love the characters. Especially Donatella and Scarlett. I liked how I saw a good vs. evil theme and that sacrifices were made in the name of love and for the good of others. I loved this ending and am quite satisfied with how everything turned out. If you love fantasy and magic definitely add this to your reading list! It won't disappoint!

Fathoms by Lisa T. Bergren

 

Ercole has firmly ensconced himself in castle Paratore and has managed to gain favor with many to align themselves against the Forelli's. His demands to make peace come at a high price. Thwarted from marrying Tiliani he demands the hand of a child-Lady Celeste is just 9 years old! He agrees to allow Luciana and Tiliani to chaperone the child until she comes of age. Everyone knows he cannot be trusted, their only hope is to be able to convince others to stand with them to defeat him. 

Such an exciting and stressful read! Time travel, castles, battles, intrigue and romance. Along with a villain that one cannot wait gets his comeuppance! I love seeing the strong women characters. They definitely deserve the title She-Wolves! Ercole is the perfect villain. I hate to say I wanted him to die a gruesome death, but I really did! He was evil! Confession: it took me almost a month to read this! Not because it was boring, not because I didn't enjoy every bit of it, but because I would get so stressed I'd have to put it down! And then when I read the last page...I missed all of the characters and wanted more! I loved the River of Time series, and I loved the Ocean of Time series just as much. I fell in love with the time travel and I fell in love with all of the characters. Seriously, read this series! 

 

Not They Who Soar by Amanda Flower

 

Katherine Wright is attending the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis while visiting her dearest friend. On their first day touring the fair Katherine stumbles upon a murder. Katherine is determined to find out who killed the girl and why. The mystery seems to be centered around the aeronautics competition which the Wright brothers refused to enter. There are plenty of other competitors in the game though so who has the most motive for murder?

I loved the history sprinkled throughout the story! I love that real people are scattered throughout the story along with some entertaining made-up characters. The mystery was pretty good as well and did offer some surprises at the end. As with most of author Amanda Flower's books there is an animal character. You'll have to read the book to find out what kind! Very entertaining and well-written. I enjoyed the book very much. 

Best Seller by Christina Rost

 

Kelly's publisher asks her to step outside of her normal writing genre and write a memoir of Abram Zucker. Abram and Kelly become close after collaborating on the book. One problem, Abram likes to talk in riddles. There is a mystery that Abram wants Kelly to solve. Once the book hits the best-seller list Kelly's life is threatened. Someone wants what they think Kelly knows. Nathan is hired to be her bodyguard. Kelly doesn't want a bodyguard, but with the threats ramping up she has no choice. Who can Kelly trust with the secrets that Abram shared with her? 

I really enjoyed this story. I loved the characters. I liked Kelly as she was a kind and caring person. I loved the relationship she built with Abram. Both Declan and Nathan's pursuit of Kelly was believable but I found myself liking one way better than the other! The mystery was interesting. A bit of treasure hunting, intrigue and danger. Romance and suspense are always right up my alley and I was quite happy with this book and am looking forward to the next one in the series! 

Legendary by Stephanie Garber

 

Book 2 in the Caraval series. This book is centered more on Tella's story. Tella has made a deal with the Prince of Hearts to find her mother. Caraval never has back to back games, but this year it will as they go to celebrate the Empress of Elantine's birthday. Donatella is determined to win Caraval in order to hopefully find her mother and set her free from whatever curse she is under. Can Tella's heart take what transpires throughout the game? And is this round of Caraval really a game or has it transformed into reality? Whatever the ending it will be legendary for sure! 

Magic, heartbreak, romance. Legendary has it all! I enjoyed reading this. It was fast-paced. I liked the twists and turns it took. Donatella finds herself engaged to the heir of Elantine, but not everyone is who they claim to be! Tella is still attracted to Dante, but is determined that she cannot fall in love with him. Her only goal throughout the game is to find her mother. But is her mother worth the cost to find? Some secrets are revealed, but by the end of the game hearts are still unsettled and secrets are still hidden. Will all be revealed in Finale? If you enjoy a good fantasy then this is a series that will keep you entertained!