I planned for this to be my top 10 list but there are a few series that made the list making it more than 10 books. So in no particular order here is the list!
Me
Friday, December 31, 2021
Never Leave Me by Jody Hedlund
Never Leave Me is book two in the Waters Of Time series by Jody Hedlund. I sincerely hope there will be a book three as I adore the characters in these books. I want to know more about Ellen and Harrison's adventures and also about Marion and William's life in the past. These books are fascinating and compel one to read them quickly, leaving one longing for more. The setting, both contemporary and in the past is described in intricate detail. I loved the plot with all of its twists and turns. So grab yourself a copy and settle in for a fabulous story. Although you won't have the healing waters you can certainly brew up a pot of tea to enjoy while you read.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
From Amazon:
In the last stages of a genetic disease, Ellen Creighton has decided to live out her remaining days at the estate of her longtime friend Harrison Burlington. Harrison cares deeply for Ellen, but as a wheelchair-bound paraplegic, he's never allowed himself to get serious in a relationship. However, he's desperately trying to save her by finding the holy water that is believed to heal any disease.
When he locates two flasks, Ellen refuses to drink one of them because she believes the holy water killed her sister and father. In an effort to convince her to take it, Harrison ingests the contents first, and when Ellen witnesses the effects, she can no longer deny the power of the substance in the bottles. Dangerous criminals are also seeking the holy water, and Ellen soon learns they will go to any lengths to get the powerful drug--including sending her back into the past to find it for them.
Bestselling and award-winning author Jody Hedlund plunges you into the swiftly flowing river of history in a race against the clock in this breathtaking, emotional second Waters of Time story.
About the author:
Jody Hedlund is the author of over thirty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).
When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
Tuesday, December 28, 2021
Shadows Of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen
Julie Klassen's Shadows Of Swanford Abbey is the perfect book to curl up with on a cold snowy afternoon. Taking Place in s Regency England abandoned cloister remodeled into a Grand hotel full of mysterious corridors, romance, and perhaps a ghost or two. Is anyone who they claim to be? Follow Rebecca and Sir Frederick as they try to solve the mysterious goings-on at Swanford Abbey while resolving their own past. The plot is fast-moving and quite intriguing. I love the setting and all of the characters are fascinating. Ms. Klassen has once again created a delightful visit to a time long gone.
So brew up a pot of tea and settle in for an enjoyable afternoon.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
From Amazon:
Agatha Christie meets Jane Austen in this atmospheric Regency tale brimming with mystery, intrigue, and romance.
When Miss Rebecca Lane returns to her home village after a few years away, her brother begs for a favor: go to nearby Swanford Abbey and deliver his manuscript to an author staying there who could help him get published. Feeling responsible for her brother's desperate state, she reluctantly agrees.
The medieval monastery turned grand hotel is rumored to be haunted. Once there, Rebecca begins noticing strange things, including a figure in a hooded black gown gliding silently through the abbey's cloisters. For all its renovations and veneer of luxury, the ancient foundations seem to echo with whispers of the past--including her own. For there she encounters Sir Frederick--magistrate, widower, and former neighbor--who long ago broke her heart.
When the famous author is found murdered in the abbey, Sir Frederick begins questioning staff and guests and quickly discovers that several people held grudges against the man, including Miss Lane and her brother. Haunted by a painful betrayal in his past, Sir Frederick searches for answers but is torn between his growing feelings for Rebecca and his pursuit of the truth. For Miss Lane is clearly hiding something. . . .
About the author:
Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. She worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. Three of her novels have won the Christy Award for Historical Romance. She has also won the Minnesota Book Award, the Midwest Book Award, and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award. Julie is a graduate of the University of Illinois. She and her husband have two sons and live in St. Paul, Minnesota. Visit www.julieklassen.com and talesfromivyhill.com for more information.
https://smile.amazon.com/Julie-Klassen/e/B001JS6J70?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1640711391&sr=1-1
Thursday, December 16, 2021
Life Flight by Lynette Eason
A fast-paced romantic page-turner from the mistress of suspense Lynette Eason. Penny is definitely a strong woman and she has found her match in Holt. The story moves along quickly sucking you in, until wow...it's over. I loved the plot and all of the characters. After reading Life Flight I will probably never look at tea the same way again! I loved the theme of Faith in God that is prevalent throughout the book. If you are looking for a fantastic read look no further than Life Flight available January 4, 2022. [book:Life Flight|58211240]
From Amazon:
"A heart-stopping, breath-stealing masterpiece of romantic suspense!"-- Colleen Coble, USA Today bestselling author
***
EMS helicopter pilot Penny Carlton is used to high-stress situations, but being forced to land on a mountain in a raging storm with a critical patient--and a serial killer on the loose--tests her skills and her nerve to the limit. She survives with FBI Special Agent Holt Satterfield's help. But she's not out of the woods yet.
In the ensuing days, Penny finds herself under attack. And when news reaches Holt that he may not have gotten his man, after all, it will take all he and Penny have to catch a killer--before he catches one of them.
Bestselling and award-winning author Lynette Eason is back with another high-octane tale of close calls, narrow escapes, and the fight to bring a nefarious criminal to justice.
About the author:
Award-winning, best-selling author, Lynette Eason writes for Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense line and for Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Her books have hit the Publisher's Weekly, CBA, and ECPA bestseller lists and have won numerous awards such as the prestigious Carol Award, the Selah, the Daphne, the IRCC award and more. Lynette is married, has two children, and lives in Greenville, SC.
Tuesday, December 7, 2021
Tuesday, November 30, 2021
As Dawn Breaks by Kate Breslin
As Dawn Breaks by Kate Breslin was a fabulous book! Kate does a fabulous job of painting word pictures not only of the gorgeous Scottish countryside but also the harsh landscape of the munitions factories of WWI. She showcases life in a Scottish family home and has researched the cultural foods of the time. I was so intrigued that I made the Scottish tattie Scones and must say they were quite good. Rose/ Tilly and Alex were both honorable people hiding a secret from each other and everyone else. I love the story. So brew up a pot of Scottish breakfast tea to have with scones and jam, then settle in for a fabulous read.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley with no expectations. all thoughts are my own.
From Amazon:
Her daring bid for freedom could be her greatest undoing.
Amid the Great War in 1918 England, munitions worker Rosalind Graham is desperate to escape the arranged marriage being forced on her by her ruthless guardian and instead follow her own course. When the Chilwell factory explodes, killing hundreds of unidentified workers, Rose realizes the world believes she perished in the disaster. Seizing the chance to escape, she risks all and assumes a new identity, taking a supervisory position in Gretna, Scotland, as Miss Tilly Lockhart.
RAF Captain Alex Baird is returning home to Gretna on a secret mission to uncover the saboteur suspected in the Chilwell explosion, as Gretna's factory is likely next. Fearing for his family's safety, he's also haunted by guilt after failing to protect his brother. Alex is surprised to discover a young woman, Miss Lockhart, renting his boyhood room, but the two eventually bond over their mutual affection for his family--until Alex receives orders to surveil her.
Rose squirms beneath Alex's scrutiny while she struggles to gain her workers' respect. But when her deception turns to danger, she and Alex must find a way to put their painful pasts behind them and together try to safeguard the future.
"With her trademark attention to historical detail, Kate Breslin sweeps readers to a Great War home front full of intrigue, suspense, danger, and courage."--JOCELYN GREEN, Christy Award-winning author of Shadows of the White City
"Readers will be captivated by this exquisite blend of historical intrigue and heartfelt romance from one of the finest voices in inspirational fiction."--AMANDA BARRATT, author of My Dearest Dietrich and The White Rose Resists
About the Author:
Former bookseller-turned-author Kate Breslin enjoys life in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and family. A writer of travel articles and award-winning poetry, Kate received Christian Retailing's 2015 Best Award for First Time Author and her debut novel, For Such A Time, was shortlisted for both the Christy and RITA awards and received the American Christian Fiction Writer's 2015 Carol Award for Debut Novel. Kate's fourth novel, Far Side of the Sea, released March, 2019. When she's not writing inspirational fiction, Kate enjoys reading or taking long walks in Washington's beautiful woodlands. She also likes traveling to new places, within the U.S. and abroad, having toured Greece, Rome, and much of Western Europe. New destinations make for fresh story ideas. Please visit her at www.katebreslin.com.
I don't know about anyone else, but when reading about different times and cultures, I always google recipes for the different dishes mentioned in a book. In As The Dawn Breaks there were many interesting foods. I decided to try the Scottish Tattie scones, They are delicious and not too difficult to make. Here is a picture of mine served warm with butter and peach jam. I am including a link to the recipe I used. Give them a try, you won't be sorry!
Sunday, November 21, 2021
The Conqueror : Constantine's Empire book 1 by Bryan Litfin
I loved The Conqueror. The story flowed although sometimes violently. It is a reflection of the times, approximately 150 years before the Dark Ages. this is an epic adventure of love and war and the decision of which god is God. I enjoyed reading about the customs of Rome and how the early Christians had to choose whom to follow. Favia and Rex are fantastic examples of Star-crossed lovers as one is a Christian noblewoman and the other a barbarian warrior of Germanic descent. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next book in this series, Every Knee Shall Bow. I suggest you grab a favorite beverage and curl up for a wonderful tale.
All thoughts are my own.
From Amazon:
It is AD 312. Rome teeters on the brink of war. Constantine's army is on the move. On the Rhine frontier, Brandulf Rex, a pagan Germanic barbarian, joins the Roman army as a spy and special forces operative. Down in Rome, Junia Flavia, the lovely and pious daughter of a nominally Christian senator, finds herself embroiled in anti-Christian politics as she works on behalf of the church.
As armies converge and forces beyond Rex's and Flavia's controls threaten to destroy everything they have worked for, these two people from different worlds will have to work together to bring down the evil Emperor Maxentius. But his villainous plans and devious henchmen are not easily overcome. Will the barbarian warrior and the senator's daughter live to see the Empire bow the knee to Christ? Or will their part in the story of Constantine's rise meet an untimely and brutal end?
Travel back to one of the most pivotal eras in history--a time when devotion to the pagan gods was fading and the Roman Empire was being conquered by the sign of the cross.
About the author:
Bryan Litfin is the author of the Chiveis Trilogy, as well as several works of nonfiction, including Early Christian Martyr Stories, After Acts, and Getting to Know the Church Fathers. A former professor of theology at the Moody Bible Institute, Litfin earned his Ph.D. in religious studies from the University of Virginia and his ThM in historical theology from Dallas Theological Seminary. He is currently a writer and editor at Moody Publishers. He and his wife have two adult children and live in Wheaton, Illinois. Learn more at www.bryanlitfin.com. Travel back to one of the most pivotal eras in history--a time when devotion to the pagan gods was fading and the Roman Empire was being conquered by the sign of the cross.
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Courting Misfortune by Regina Jennings
Regina Jenning's Courting Misfortune is a fun book about a female Pinkerton agent. CalistaYork accepts a case in her hometown with family all over the place. She is trying to earn a spot with the famous Pinkerton detectives. Unfortunately, not only her family but Missionary minded Matthew Cook shows up and wants to reform the wayward Miss york.
I love the humor that shines throughout this book along with faith and family. The plot is engaging and the characters are delightful. So if you want a fun read on a chilly day grab a pot of tea and settle in for an enjoyable day.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
From Amazon:
Calista York needs one more successful case as a Pinkerton operative to secure her job. When she's assigned to find the kidnapped daughter of a mob boss, she's sent to the rowdy mining town of Joplin, Missouri, despite having extended family in the area. Will their meddling expose her mission and keep Lila Seaton from being recovered?
When Matthew Cook decided to be a missionary, he never expected to be sent only a short train ride away. While fighting against corruption of all sorts, Matthew hears of a baby raffle being held to raise funds for a children's home. He'll do what he can to stop it, but he also wants to stop the reckless Miss York, whose bad judgment consistently seems to be putting her in harm's way.
Calista doesn't need the handsome pastor interfering with her investigation, and she can't let her disguise slip. Her job and the life of a young lady depend on keeping Matthew in the dark.
about the author:
Regina Jennings is the winner of the National Reader's Choice Award and a finalist for the Christy Award, the Golden Quill and the Oklahoma Book of the Year Award. A graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a minor in history, Regina has worked at the Mustang News and at First Baptist Church of Mustang, along with time at the Oklahoma National Stockyards and various livestock shows. She lives outside of Oklahoma City with her husband and four children when not traveling the world.
Visit Regina's website at www.reginajennings.com
Thursday, November 11, 2021
A Woman of Words (Jerusalem Road, #3) by Angela Elwell Hunt
| Beautifully told Biblical fiction about the writing of the Book of Matthew. In Ms. Hunt's book, it is postulated that Mary was the co-author of the book of Matthew. I loved the descriptions of places, customs, and foods of the Time of Christ. It was a fascinating glimpse into the life of Jesus' family and friends in the years after His Crucifixion and Resurrection. pour up your favorite beverage and cuddle up for a fabulous read. I was given a copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts are my own. From Amazon: Disciple Matthew, a former tax collector, is invited to work with Peter, James, and John in Jerusalem. He dreams of preaching and performing miracles like his fellow apostles, but he finds his dreams postponed because of a request from Yeshua's mother. Well aware of the passing years, Mary asks Matthew to help her record the stories of Yeshua while the eyewitnesses are still alive. Reluctantly, he agrees, though the longer he and Mary work together, the more difficult their task becomes. Not only are they pressured by opposition from friends and foes alike, but Gaius Caesar, better known as Caligula, is determined to raise a statue of himself in the Holy Temple, even if it means killing every man in Israel. As Matthew works to save his people, Mary encourages him to come to terms with issues from his past. When they finally near the completion of their project, Matthew realizes that the job he reluctantly accepted might be his God-given destiny. About the author:  |
Sunday, October 31, 2021
Dead Fall by Nancy Mehl
Nancy Mehl's Dead Fall is one of the most suspenseful books I have read this year. She had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who was plotting the deaths of the FBI's Behavioral Analysts. Alex Donovan is joined by Kaely Quinn an infamous analyst. I loved how the characters were fully developed and the plot was fast-moving and kept me guessing until the end. Nancy also wove her faith through the characters' lives in a fantastic way. I would advise clearing your schedule, fixing a pot of tea, and curling up in your favorite reading nook for a fantastic read.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
From Amazon:
He has a deadly endgame in mind--and he's already chosen each victim . . . including her.
After putting to rest the most personal case of her career, Alex Donovan is ready to move on and focus on her future at the FBI's elite Behavioral Analysis Unit. When the BAU cofounder is discovered dead in his hotel room, the FBI is called in to work on the strangest case they've ever faced. How do you find a killer who murders his victims from a distance?
When it becomes clear that the killer is targeting agents in Alex's unit, they are ordered into lockdown, sheltered in the dorms at Quantico. Alex bunks with controversial agent Kaely Quinn, and as they work together, Alex discovers in Kaely the role model she's never had--despite being warned away.
As Alex questions the type of agent she wants to become, things get personal when the brilliant killer strikes close to home. Now Alex will do anything to find the killer--even at the risk of her own life.
About the author:
All of Nancy's novels have an added touch - something for your spirit as well as your soul. "I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing," Nancy says. "It's a part of me and of everything I think or do. God is number one in my life. I wouldn't be writing at all if I didn't believe that this is what He's called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan especially for your life, and there is nothing you can't overcome with His help."
You can find out more about Nancy by visiting her Web site at: www.nancymehl.com. She also is active on the Suspense Sisters: www.suspensesisters.blogspot.com and on FaceBook!
Thursday, October 28, 2021
The Heart Of A Cowboy by Jody Hedlund
Jody Hedlund's Heart Of A Cowboy is a beautiful story about Linnea Newberry a scientist and a proponent of woman's rights and Flynn McQuaid an overprotective cowboy. I enjoyed reading about their journey west. Flynn has vowed never to marry, while Linnea, recently widowed will only settle for love. I loved watching their faith grow as their love for each other also grows. The plot is fast-moving and the characters are believable.
I suggest you fix your favorite coffee and settle into a cozy chair for an awesome read.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
From Amazon:
When he agreed to guard her, he never bargained on having to guard his heart.
Brilliant scientist Linnea Newberry is on the adventure of a lifetime, traveling the Santa Fe Trail with her grandfather, Dr. Howell, on a botanical expedition to Colorado Territory. She longs to be valued for her contributions and not seen as a helpless liability. But at every calamity she faces, her grandfather threatens to send her home.
After watching his ma suffer and die in childbirth, Flynn McQuaid has sworn off women and marriage forever. Headed west to start a new life, he has his hands full not only taking care of his younger siblings but also delivering cattle to his older brother. He doesn't need more complications.
When Flynn rescues Linnea from drowning during a river crossing, Dr. Howell promptly
hires Flynn--unbeknownst to Linnea--to act as her bodyguard for the rest of the trip. As
Flynn fights against the many dangers of the trail, he soon finds himself in the greatest danger of all--falling for a woman he's determined not to love.
About the author:
Jody Hedlund is the author of over thirty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).
When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
Enamored, Knights Of The Brethren book 1 by Jody Hedlund
Jody Hedlund is fast becoming one of my favorite YA authors. I love her storytelling skills. She creates wonderful tales of time gone by, with reasonable explanations for dragons! I love her characters, she fully develops both good and evil characters that keep one engaged in the story. Jody brings to life beautiful settings and weaves her faith throughout the tale.
Brew up a pot of tea to enjoy with a slice of quick bread and curl up in a comfy spot on a chilly afternoon for an awesome read! Fortunately, I won't have to wait long for Entwined, book 2 in the Knights Of The Brethren series.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
From Amazon:
During a time when legends were born . . .
ENAMORED
A princess in need of a husband, a young Sage who cannot have her, and a web of deceit that threatens their love.
Having been raised by her childless aunt and uncle, the king and queen, Princess Elinor finds herself the only heir to the throne of Norvegia. As she comes of age, she must choose a husband to rule beside her, but she struggles to make her selection from among a dozen noblemen during a weeklong courtship.
With aspirations to become the wisest man in the land, Maxim is summoned home by his father Rasmus, a Royal Sage. Reunited with Elinor, once his closest friend, Maxim is quickly enamored with her even though he can never be considered a prospect for her husband.
Elinor’s feelings for Maxim are rekindled too . . . until she learns he has been unwillingly drawn into Rasmus’s scheme to take control of the throne. With the kingdom under attack both from within and without, can Elinor and Maxim overcome the deceit spinning around them? Or will it destroy their love once and for all?
The real story of Excalibur.
About the author:
About Jody Hedlund
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