Friday, December 20, 2024

Review of "Tracking the Missing" by Sami A. Abrams

 




A search for three abducted teens—

and a K-9 on the case.

After surviving a vicious attack in the woods, Tori Campbell awakes to her worst nightmare—her son and his two friends are missing. She calls the one person she knows she can trust, her late husband’s best friend, former DEA agent Michael Lane. Together with his search-and-rescue K-9, they must track the boys and figure out who took them—and why. Only, the Indiana wilderness is full of dangers beyond their abductor. Can Michael and Tori find the teens…even if it means falling into a sinister trap?

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.


To Purchase


K-9 Search and Rescue

Book 1: Desert Rescue by Lisa Phillips
Book 2: Trailing a Killer by Carol J. Post
Book 3: Mountain Survival by Christy Barritt
Book 4: Search and Defend by Heather Woodhaven
Book 5: Following the Trail by Lynette Eason
Book 6: Dangerous Mountain Rescue by Christy Barritt
Book 7: Wilderness Hunt by Lisa Phillips
Book 8: Alaskan Mountain Search by Sarah Varland
Book 9: Alaskan Avalanche Escape by Darlene L. Turner
Book 10: Tracking Stolen Treasures by Lisa Phillips
Book 11: Alaskan Wilderness Rescue by Sarah Varland
Book 12: Lethal Mountain Pursuit by Christy Barritt
Book 13: Tracking the Missing by Sami A. Abrams
Book 14: K-9 Alaskan Defense by Sarah Varland
Book 15: Searching for Justice by Connie Queen


Thoughts on the Book

Tracking the Missing is a high suspense and mystery with a second chance at love added. It has everything you want in a suspense novel-an absolute page-turner. I finished it in one sitting.

The characters are amazing, intense with many layers. Due to their strengths, as well as their flaws, they became real to me. The setting of wintertime in the mountains, added an extra element of concern for the missing.

Michael's dog, Ducky, a search and rescue, never ceased to amaze me with his incredible instinct. Michael and Tori were both going through some emotional and physical setbacks that made them dig deep to resolve. The Christian element woven into the story gave it an even deeper meaning and touched my heart as I read.

I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

Julie




Thursday, December 19, 2024

Review of New Release- "Once Upon A Winter" by Heidi Eljarbo

 



An enchanting fairytale-like escape.

Nothing less than a miracle can free her from her parents’ choice of husband, but she’s determined to try.
Only fate can draw him back to the land of his ancestors and his legacy, and he must make it there before it’s too late.

Lady Starr desires to discover what life is like beyond the castle walls and ventures out on her own, dressed as a common villager. She’s heard of chance encounters that blossomed into romance in fairy tales and folklore, but can her dreams of finding a deep and forever love come true?

Hungry, sick, and destitute, Whit finds refuge from strife and war in a neighboring land. As a soldier in exile, he has no other choice but to beg for scraps at the marketplace and draw portraits for a pittance.

When Lady Starr asks the pauper to render her portrait, he is smitten…not only with her beauty but with the impression of goodness that surrounds her.

The gentle maiden seems to enjoy his company, but Whit carries a deeply hidden secret—one that cannot be revealed until the time is right…and that day may never come.

From award-winning author Heidi Eljarbo comes a clean and sweet romance novella about two people destined to be together. Goodness and perseverance combined with the magic of December and Christmastime may be what they need to help them both find a new start.

A royal Romeo and Juliet retelling with a feel-good ending for fans of Sarah M. Eden, Julie Klassen, Judy Hedlund, and Martha Keyes.



To Purchase on Amazon


Author Links


Official Author Website:
https://www.heidieljarbo.com/
https://www.facebook.com/authorheidie...
https://no.pinterest.com/heidieljarbo/





My Review


Once Upon a Winter reads like a fairytale. The setting in the days of Kings, in a village called Greenstall, brought the story to life by the vivid descriptions. The author's writing style is easy to read and the story magical.

The main characters each facing their own will to be themselves, had me enthralled from the beginning. Each one has a compassionate heart, a will to right wrongs, and an inner strength to endure to the end. There are some twists, surprises, and a budding romance. This is a sweet story that will bring a smile to your face and remind you of goodness and hope.

I received an ARC from the author and voluntarily choose to review it; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.


Julie


Tuesday, December 17, 2024

Review of Dead Weight by Kathy Cassel

 

 


About the Book

 


Book: Dead Weight: An Abbi Kincaid Suspense Novel

Author: Kathy Cassel

Genre: Suspense

Release date: August 29, 2023

When Florida Panhandle police officer Abbi Kincaid obtains a coveted position on the Bay County dive team, she has no inkling her first mission will be anything but routine. Recovering a murder weapon eighty feet below the ocean surface is a simple assignment until Abbi finds herself face-to-face with a mutilated body.

Then a fisherman pulls up a second body, and the similarities set off a search for a connection between the two murder victims. The quest leads to the murky world of high-stakes underwater salvage and treasure-hunting. But what instigated this killing spree, and why now?

A horrific new trail of evidence is uncovered, and Abbi begins to wonder if her beloved brother Brad’s recent death is unrelated or whether he is yet another victim of this predator, even as she wrestles with age-old questions of why God allows good people to die.

When one more salvage diver goes missing, Abbi is pulled into a dangerous mission to rescue him. Trapped by the killer in an underwater cave, Abbi can no longer keep running but must face her worst fears head-on. With time and air running out, can she find a way to save not just herself but the others trapped with her? Does she have the strength, courage, and faith to do so before time runs out?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author



Kathy Cassel is the author of more than a dozen fiction and non-fiction titles for preteens and teens, including 2021 Selah Award finalist Freerunner, Catching Hope, and 2023 Selah Award finalist and Christian Indie Award finalist, A Thousand Lies. Dead Weight is her first adult suspense novel and the first book in the Abbi Kincaid Suspense series.

Kathy has lived on three continents with her USAF husband, has eight children, five adopted of them adopted, three from Haiti, and six grandchildren. To better relate to her characters, she enjoys learning their skills such as whitewater rafting, scuba diving, and riding a motorcycle, but draws the line at sky diving.

More from Kathy

In 2015, my daughter Jessica and I had the idea to write an underwater crime scene series. She was in the FSUPC’s underwater crime scene program, but I had never dived. I kept asking her questions about scuba techniques to make the scenes authentic, but I didn’t have a feel for it. So I took the four-hour intro to scuba class. I did not expect to like it because I am a bit claustrophobic and also didn’t think I had enough air to clear my mask. But in reality, I did fine. In fact, I liked it enough that I signed up for Padi Basic on the spot.

Jessica and I worked on the book, and I continued learning to dive, ending up with my SDI open water advanced with some specialties. But it turns out we didn’t know what we were doing when it came to writing a fiction novel. So I enlisted the help of a fiction coach. We basically started the whole book over.

But by this time, my daughter and her husband were starting a family, and she decided to go to nursing school instead of going into law enforcement. Meanwhile, I pressed on alone with the book.

I decided that since my main character rode a motorcycle, it might be helpful to try that, too, so that the scenes where she rides would sound realistic. That was not without its own challenges, but I eventually got my certification, bought a cycle, and also learned to shoot a gun.

So, because of Abbi, I learned to dive, ride, and shoot!



The plot had changed drastically by now. I became so overwhelmed that I quit three times! During those times, I wrote three YA novels (Freerunner, Catching Hope, and A Thousand Lies). But I always knew I’d return to the underwater crime scene story. And I did. I kept pushing, and finally, with the help of my fiction coach, I finished the book. I hope you enjoy it.


My Review

Dead Weight: An Abbi Kincaid Suspense is by a new-to-me author. After reading this first in the series, I can't wait until the next one comes out. I'm hooked! Put together a dive team, an ME, and police homicide unit; add in a few dead bodies and it's a great story.

I have traveled to some of the locations mentioned in the book and the vivid descriptions brought them to life. The characters appeared real. They dealt with real situations, had faith issues, and heartache.

The suspense and mystery in the story kept me on the edge of my seat, wondering how everything would turn out. Lots of surprises and twists I didn't see coming. Everything wrapped up nicely in the end.

I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

                   Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 16

Bizwings Blog, December 17

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 18

Stories By Gina, December 19 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, December 19

Betti Mace, December 20

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 21

Simple Harvest Reads, December 22 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, December 23

Artistic Nobody, December 24 (Author Interview)

Book Looks by Lisa, December 25

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 26

Fiction Book Lover, December 27 (Author Interview)

Leslie’s Library Escape, December 27

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 28

Blogging With Carol, December 29


                     Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Kathy is giving away the grand prize of a copy of the book and a $40 Books a Million gift card!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54121/

Monday, December 16, 2024

Review of Line of Fire by Taylor S. Newport

 

Line of Fire JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Line of Fire by Taylor S. Newport, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Line of Fire

Title: Line of Fire
Series: Dauntless Defenders #1
Author: Taylor S Newport
Publisher:
Independently Published
Release Date: November 7, 2024
Genre:
Christian Action Thriller

The enemy is relentless, but they made one fatal mistake: they underestimated him. 

Australian mercenary Tyler Reid, known as "The Ghost of OZ," has a talent for evading detection, a skill that has caught the eye of multiple government agencies. When a shadowy group targets a CIA asset and her revolutionary drug ND1, the Deputy Director calls in Tyler. Eager for action, Tyler takes the job. He soon realizes that the enemy is not only after the drug, but also out for his blood. Then the mission goes south, and he is forced to seek an unlikely ally. 

For covert foreign operative Alexandra Romanova, freedom is a distant dream. Escaping one prison only led her to a more dangerous one. Her deadly skills are at her boss's disposal, but she’ll use them only to escape. Her final chance hinges on retrieving ND1, but the elusive Ghost of Oz complicates things. Tyler Reid isn’t an easy mark, and the better she gets to know him, the more she questions the mission she's tasked with. Soon she faces a dire choice: kill a man she is convinced is good, or pay with her own life. 

As Tyler and Alex venture beyond their orders, the line between enemy and ally blurs. On the edge of failure, trust becomes a dangerous gamble with every decision dragging them deeper into the line of fire. As enemies close in and alliances shift, they are ensnared in a ruthless battle where survival depends on split-second choices. In this high-stakes fight, time is running out, and the margin for error is zero.  

Line of Fire is the first book in the Christian thriller series Dauntless Defenders. It is NOT a standalone novel.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | From the Author | Amazon | BookBub


My Review

Line of fire is a non-stop action thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I was hooked from the first chapter. The plot is complex with a well-developed set of characters. The main character, Taylor, appears super-human as he fights off the bad guys.

The characters are well-developed with lots of layers.  I enjoyed seeing them all revealed. 

Lots of twists to this high-energy story. I read it in one sitting. The ending wrapped up most things but left some unanswered questions for the next book in the series, which I can't wait to read.

I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.


About the Author

Taylor Newport

Taylor S Newport is an up and coming Christian author. Four years of research has brought her to release her first high-octane novel to the world. In 2024, she placed as a Finalist in the ACFW Genesis Contest. Currently, she travels the United States with her family and GSD mix, Bella, probably writing her next novel.

Connect with Taylor by visiting taylorsnewport.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive an ebook copy of Line of Fire and a $15 Amazon Gift Card!

Line of Fire JustRead Tours blog giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 16, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 23, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

Saturday, December 14, 2024

Review of "His Final Answer" by Christopher D. White and Jennifer Curran

 


My Thoughts on the Book

His final answer is well written, and the characters have many layers that will take you on a gamut of emotions as you turn the pages. I was touched by the many phases of change in Daniel Pallson's life.

The entire read is a mixture of loss, grief, and the ability to come back and embrace life again. I found myself rooting for Daniel's spiritual change. The ending wrapped everything up but not without some surprises.

I loved the book and would recommend it to anyone going through grief, loss, or on the fence about the importance of life and what really matters. Very inspirational and hopeful overall. 

This would make an excellent Christmas gift for those you love.  They will ponder the story long after they close the last page. If you only read one book in December, you will want to make it this one!

I received a copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.


Enter the Giveaway     https://www.blessedfreebies.com/his-final-answer-586814.html


Book Description:

This story is about the wrath of tragic grief and how self-renewal is the key for any future possibilities or reconciliation of the past.

Daniel Pallson is considered by most to have everything one could ask for as one of the wealthiest self made people in the world, however in reality since he tragically lost his son twenty years ago he has been one of the emptiest. Since then he has shut most everything out of his life including his wife, extended family, faith in himself, spirituality and all except his successful business.

A long time American citizen and resident Daniel returns to his native Iceland for a very important business project. While on this trip he suffers a life threatening event that does not allow him to leave the country any time soon. Daniels only option where to convalesce is at his estranged brothers ranch where they both grew up. Daniels wife Doris with whom he separated from years ago also comes from her home in Boston knowing this is a life or death situation. To his complete dismay Daniel must now face not only his own mortality but all he shunned all these years. What is his final answer?

Book Trailer

Thursday, December 12, 2024

"The Sweetest Gift: A Lakeview Falls Romance Book 1 by J.E. Grace

 



The Sweetest Gift is FREE on Amazon from Dec. 8th through Dec. 12th.

My Christmas Gift to You!


Description:

Becca Tate, a talented set designer for a Broadway company, finds herself at a crossroads when she unexpectedly inherits her grandmother's charming house in the quaint town of Lakeview Falls. Fueled by a sense of adventure and longing for a change, Becca courageously quits her job and embarks on a journey to start anew.


However, her fresh start takes an intriguing turn when she uncovers peculiar secrets hidden within the walls of her grandmother's house. Among these discoveries is a collection of enchanting Christmas ornaments.

Meanwhile, Grant Jacobs is confronted with turmoil as he inherits a house and a trove of belongings from a grandfather, he never had the chance to know. Wrestling with unresolved emotions and familial complexities, Grant's path intersects with Becca's, leading to unexpected twists and turns that neither of them could have anticipated.

Set against the backdrop of a charming small-town Christmas, this heartwarming romance explores themes of love, redemption, and the transformative power of the holiday spirit. Becca and Grant embark on a journey of self-discovery and romance that will warm the hearts of readers and leave them believing in the magic of Christmas.


FREE on Amazon

If you enjoy the book, the best gift you can give an author is to leave a review.  Also, feel free to follow me on Amazon if you would like to keep track of sales or new releases. 


Have a Merry Christmas,

J. E Grace

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Review of "Once Upon a Horse" by Helena Smrcek

 

Once Upon a Horse JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Once Upon a Horse by Helena Smrcek, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Once Upon a Horse

Title: Once Upon a Horse
Series:
The Vets of Heavenbrooke County #1
Author:
Helena Smrcek
Publisher:
EverWind Press
Release Date:
November 15, 2024
Genre:
Sweet Contemporary Romance

In the charming Heavenbrooke county, where country life meets big-city dreams, 28-year-old accountant Stella Barkley is about to discover that sometimes love arrives when you least expect it. 

After a flat tire leaves her stranded on the side of the road, a handsome stranger comes to her rescue—Dr. Jason Alba, a dedicated veterinarian with a heart as big as his ambitions. Their initial encounter sparks an undeniable connection, aided by Stella's spirited Jack Russell Terrier, Milkbone, who takes an immediate liking to Jason thanks to his pocket full of treats. 

As their paths intertwine, Stella finds herself drawn to Jason, despite their differing views on farm life and future aspirations. Their budding romance takes unexpected turns, especially when a mysterious missing horse from a local breeder, Enrique Rodriguez, complicates matters. 

When Thanksgiving arrives, Jason becomes Stella's unexpected hero, saving her from a culinary disaster and charming her city friends with his warm spirit. But just as their relationship begins to flourish, a crisis emerges in the barn: the missing mare, Starling, is discovered in distress, leading Jason to perform a life-saving surgery that brings them even closer. 

However, secrets and misunderstandings threaten to tear them apart. Stella’s desperate attempt to protect a champion mare sends her on a collision course with both Jason and Enrique, forcing her to confront her choices and the future she thought she wanted. 

When Stella realizes that her life in Heavenbrooke may be over, she pens a heartfelt goodbye letter to Jason, leaving it at the church where their story began. Alone on Christmas morning, she grapples with loneliness and regret, only to be surprised by the appearance of the man who stole her heart. 

Can a simple letter and the magic of Christmas lead them to a second chance? Will they find a way to bridge the divide between city and country, love and loyalty? 

Join Stella and Jason on a heartfelt journey of love, loss, and the enduring power of second chances in Once Upon a Horse. Perfect for fans of contemporary romance, this tale of unexpected connections and the bonds we forge will leave you believing in the wonder of love.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

MY REVIEW

City world and country meet and there is more to the handsome veterinarian than Stella can imagine. I thoroughly enjoyed being introduced to part of the horse racing world. The author's knowledge of horses comes through in the story, and there is mystery and suspense as the story unfolds. It has everything you could want-animals, country living, and a budding romance.

The characters are well developed with lots of layers that are revealed gradually, building lots of tension. I ran the gamut of emotions as I rooted for each one. I loved the references to God, who works everything out in his timing.

This is a new to me author, with this being the first book I've read, but highly recommended it.

I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

Also Available

   


About the Author

Helena Smrcek

Helena Smrcek is an award-winning author, screenwriter, public speaker and writing coach. From her romantic suspense series to women’s fiction, contemporary romance, and humor, and her latest favorite, dual timeline historicals—like a box of chocolate truffles—she loves them all. With a passion for storytelling sparked by her grandparents, Helena Smrcek weaves heartfelt tales that explore themes of faith, love, and redemption.

Connect with Helena by visiting helenasmrcek.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of all 3 books in the Alicia Yu FBI series plus Once Upon a Horse!

Once Upon a Horse JustRead blog tour giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 9, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 16, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Winner location limited to where Amazon will ship. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


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

JustRead Publicity Tours