Review of Christmas Crime CoverUp by Dana Mentink

 

 

About the Book

Book: Christmas Crime Cover-Up

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre:Inspy Suspense

Release date: November 29, 2022

From USA TODAY bestselling author Dana Mentink…

A violent attack

Isn’t the homecoming she expected.

When an ATV tries to run her down in Death Valley, animal rescuer Nora Duke knows it’s a sign she never should have returned. Now she’s stuck on Seth Castillo’s ranch until Christmas with a pregnant donkey—and a criminal desperate to silence her. Facing her past is as terrifying as uncovering a killer’s twisted plan. But can Seth convince her to stay…if they live through the holidays?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Desert Justice

Book 1: Framed in Death Valley
Book 2: Missing in the Desert
Book 3: Death Valley Double Cross
Book 4: Death Valley Hideout
Book 5: Christmas Crime Cover-Up
Book 6: Targeted in the Desert

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts on the Book

Another great story from Dana Mentink. The storyline is exciting, filled with suspense, danger, and romance. I loved the growing faith that Nora finds as she gets to know Seth.

The family ties between Seth & Nora's family showed how they pulled together in good as well as bad times. The ending was even more than I expected and wrapped up everything nicely. This author has never failed to provide and exciting and inspirational suspense. This is no exception.

I received a ARC from the publisher and voluntarily choose to review it.

 

About the Author

Dana Mentink is a USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author as well as a two-time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, and the recipient of a Holt Medallion. She’s written over fifty titles in the suspense, lighthearted romance and mystery genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Harlequin Heartwarming and Poisoned Pen Press. You can connect with Dana via her website at danamentink.com, on Facebook, YouTube (Author Dana Mentink) and Instagram (dana_mentink.) Her monthly newsletter features plenty of goodies, gab and giveaways. https://www.subscribepage.com/b8q0y5

 

More from Dana

Well here we go! Book five in the Desert Justice series features Nora (Chief Jude’s estranged sister), a wild donkey who needs rescuing, and a crime from the past that intrudes into the present. Twisty, right? I was inspired to write this story after visiting Death Valley and learning about the feral donkeys which inhabit the region. They’re cute, visitors love them, but the burros can encounter health problems and cause environmental damage if they aren’t settled into a safe area. It’s amazing to me that wild donkeys are adept at detecting underground water sources. They dig “wells” which can benefit many thirsty animals. Fascinating, right? Hope you’ll enjoy meeting Bubbles the donkey and the helpful humans who rescue her in this novel. God bless and thanks for reading!

                Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 3

deb’s Book Review, December 3

Through the Fire Blogs, December 3

Texas Book-aholic, December 4

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, December 4

Betti Mace, December 5

Genesis 5020, December 5

Bizwings Blog, December 6

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 6

Bigreadersite, December 7

Inklings and notions, December 7

Daysong Reflections, December 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 9

Empowermoms, December 9

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, December 10

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 10

Pause for Tales, December 10

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 11

For Him and My Family, December 11

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 12

Holly’s Book Corner, December 12

Blogging With Carol, December 13

Vicky Sluiter, December 13

For the Love of Literature, December 14

Lily’s Book Reviews, December 14

Cover Lover Book Review, December 15

Simple Harvest Reads, December 15 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Blossoms and Blessings, December 16

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, December 16

Labor Not in Vain, December 16

                     Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

(If the winner is outside the U.S., then he or she will receive an eBook.)

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! 

Click the link below to enter.

tps://promosimple.com/ps/22ec8/christmas-crime-cover-up-celebration-tour-giveaway

Review of a New Release- Take My Hand by Kristen Hogrefe Parnell

 

Hello Readers,

I had the privilege of serving on the launch team for Take My Hand, a Christian Mystery & Suspense novel.  I give it a 5-star rating and highly recommend it.

Don’t find us. We’ll find you.

Trauma therapist Kaley Colbert needs a vacation from her job, and a ski trip with her church singles group seems like the perfect way to unplug. But while in the mountains, she learns that her last client was murdered hours after their meeting, and she wonders if the notes she's receiving from a possible stalker hold a more sinister warning.

On the trip, ex-boyfriend and entrepreneur Reef Mitchell wants to give their relationship another chance, but Kaley questions if his past and priorities could ever mesh with her life.  When her client's underworld connections catch up with her, she has no choice but trust Reef to help her stay alive, solve her client's mystery, and bring the killers to justice.

To Purchase

About Kristen Hogrefe Parnell

Kristen Hogrefe Parnell is an award-winning author and a life-long learner. Her suspenseful stories for teens (published under her maiden name, Kristen Hogrefe) inspire hope, while her nonfiction writing dares readers to find faith in everyday adventures.

 Her first romantic suspense novel for women releases December 2022. She and her husband live in Florida and love sharing their lake home with family and friends. Join her at KristenHogrefeParnell.com

My Thoughts on the Book

Kaley, a trauma counselor goes to Beech Mountain on a trip with a group from her church. Unknown to her, Reef, her ex-boyfriend is among them. Feeling guilt from the breakup, she wasn't looking forward to seeing him again.

The storyline takes a twist when she fills in at the trauma center for her boss. The client, with accusations of fear from the mob, has Kaley wondering about his sanity. The story encompasses murder, kidnapping and human trafficking but each is handled well. There is plenty of tense moments and some that seem hopeless, but the author makes trust in the Lord shine through.

This is one of the best woven Christian suspense tales I've read in a long time. Great characters that show faith, courage, and determination. Highly recommended.

I received an ARC from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.

Julie

Review of Into the Fog by Karen Randau

About the Book

 

Book: Into the Fog

Author: Karen Randau

Genre: Romantic suspense

Release date: September 6, 2022

Love and danger spar in this thrilling romantic suspense novel.

Hands push Marie Jessica (“MJ”) Goodrich from a rural roadway into an icy creek. The clock is ticking for her pleading friend on the other side of the ravine.

Running from flashbacks of a life-altering attack in Afghanistan, MJ takes refuge with her mother, managing Peach Blossom Orchard. But peace is elusive in a rural Oklahoma town full of secrets.

After losing his wife and children in a fatal car crash, Josh Rivers doubts he deserves a second chance at love. He can’t believe his bad luck when MJ, the woman who plagues the nightmares of his military service in Afghanistan, shows up in his hometown. She claims a driver ran down and abducted her friend Kelsey. Frustrated with the county sheriff’s investigation, MJ and Josh partner to follow clues that lead to a kidnapper who demands a bizarre ransom.

With danger increasing for everyone MJ loves, will the clock run out before they solve the mystery? Find out how MJ and Josh—swirling in a whirlwind of mystery and suspense—lean on their mutual faith to find answers, courage, forgiveness, healing … and wholesome romance.

If you like to read Christy Barritt and Colleen Coble, you’ll love Into the Fog, a keep-you-up-at-night clean romantic suspense novel that launches the Peach Blossom Romantic Suspense series.

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts on the Book

5 star

M.J. a military vet, returns to her mother's peach orchard in Oklahoma to help her. Her mother is suffering from bouts of memory issues. M. J. also a runner, runs with her friend Kelsey, until she disappears.

A mystery takes place which M. J. tries to help solve with the help of another vet, Josh. The disappearance case of Kelsey takes over MJ's life. She becomes front and center and more involved as she tries to figure out what happened.

The characters are well-developed and the romantic attraction between M.J & Josh become intense. The storyline kept me guessing about who kidnapped Kelsey right up until the end. The story has fast paced action, lots of surprises, filled with faith in God, and acts of forgiveness. A great read.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.
Julie

 

About the Author

Karen Randau a best-seller author of fast-paced mystery, thriller, and suspense books from her home in the picturesque mountains of Arizona. She enjoys cooking, hiking, and hanging out with her family. In addition to the Peach Blossom Romantic Suspense series, her books include the Frankie Shep Mystery-Suspense Series, the Kayla Walsh Suspense Series, and Rim Country Mysteries.

 

More from Karen

Into the Fog is set in a farming community outside Tahlequah, Oklahoma, home of the Cherokee Nation, the largest of the 39 Native American tribes in Oklahoma.

If you’ve ever watched old Western movies, you may have heard a lot about the dangers of traveling through Indian Territory. Did you know that much of what is now Oklahoma was called the Indian Territory until Oklahoma became a state in 1907? Some of the tribes fought with the Confederacy during the Civil War, and some fought with the Union.

If those weren’t enough reasons for an identity crisis for the people of Oklahoma (who sometimes refer to themselves of Okies), the federal government lists Oklahoma in both the South and the Southwest regions of the United States. Many Okies claim their state is in Midwest region of the United States, but it is not listed that way in the federal census.

One thing is for sure: Oklahoma has a culture all its own, rightly earned by its confusing history. Many of these cultural oddities are explored in Into the Fog.

You’ll also enjoy the two main characters, MJ and Josh.

Marie Jessica “MJ” Goodrich served with the Army Rangers in Afghanistan until a bomb gave her a life-altering injury and a case of PTSD. She believes her injuries were so bad that no man will ever want to marry her. Besides, her mother’s failing memory and the peach orchard keep her too busy to embark on a romantic relationship.

Josh Rivers always wanted to be an artist, but he’s stuck running the auto shop he inherited. He’s dreamed of MJ ever since he pulled her from a bombed marketplace in Afghanistan, and it cost him his wife and children. He doesn’t believe he deserves another chance at love, but he prays for companionship anyway—and finds MJ unconscious in a ravine moments later. Could a guy’s luck get any worse?

The question answered in Into the Fog is: Will Josh die saving MJ again, or will they get out of the whirlwind of mystery and danger swirling around them in time to find their happily ever after?

                   Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 21

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 21

Texas Book-aholic, November 22

Betti Mace, November 23

deb’s Book Review, November 23

Mary Hake, November 24

Inklings and notions, November 25

Cover Lover Book Review, November 25

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 26

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, November 27 (Author Interview)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 27

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 28

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 29

For Him and My Family, November 29

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 30

Lily’s Book Reviews, December 1

Book Looks by Lisa, December 1

Bizwings Blog, December 2

Blogging With Carol, December 3

Lights in a Dark World, December 3

Pause for Tales, December 4

                     Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and an eBook copy of the book!!

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

https://promosimple.com/ps/22ad1/into-the-fog-celebration-tour-giveaway

Review of CSB Explorer Bible for Kids

 

The CSB Explorer Bible for Kids is made to help kids place God’s Word in the middle of God’s world. Within its pages, kids will explore and interact with the people, places, and things of the Bible and God’s creation. This Bible features an engaging full-color design with images, illustrations, timelines, and study helps placed throughout to equip kids to better read, understand, and apply God’s Word for a lifetime. 

FEATURES

• Book introductions to help kids understand the key truths and takeaways for every book, including the “Who, What, When, Where, and Why” 
• “Christ in Context” for each book to show how the whole Bible points to Jesus and the good news of the gospel 
• “Discovering the Truth” callouts to help kids understand the essential truths of the Bible and apply them to their life
• “Excavating the Past” illustrations and real-world images to help connect the dots between important archaeological discoveries and the Bible
• “Exploring Creation” facts and images connecting modern-day objects and things in the world today to God and the Bible 
• “Charting History” illustrated timelines to survey key time periods and events in biblical history 
• “Character Field Guide” profiles with fun facts and insights about important people in the Bible 
• “Archiving Discoveries” highlighting key memory verses throughout the Bible to aid in Scripture memorization
• “Explorer Glossary” and topical concordance to help with some of the big words found in the Bible
• QR codes placed throughout the Bible with online videos and activities for home or church 
• 9.5-point type size that is easy-to-read with words of Jesus in red 
• Ribbon marker for easy referencing between pages 
• Specially designed presentation page for gift-giving or awards
• Full-color maps section to help find places mentioned in the Bible

Part of what makes the CSB Explorer Bible for Kids so special is the highly readable, highly reliable text of the Christian Standard Bible® (CSB). The CSB’s optimal blend of accuracy and readability makes it a trustworthy, easy-to-understand resource for kids to study and memorize today—and to live and share for a lifetime.

Purchase

 Social Media Links

https://www.instagram.com/christianstandardbible/ 

https://www.facebook.com/ChristianStandardBible/

Giveaway

https://www.blessedfreebies.com/explorer-bible-for-kids.html

My Review

5 stars

The Explorer Bible for Kids is a very comprehensive compilation of God's Word, and many additional resources explaining who wrote each book in the Bible, whom it is written to, where it was written, and when it was written.

There is highlighted text within each book. Quality imagery of archaeological discoveries and history timelines giving kids a better understanding of biblical events.  Children not only became a student of God's Word, but an explorer, making learning a more fun experience.

I read through a few of the books of the Bible and even found it more engaging for me. Imagine how much more fun when you can learn along with your children. This would make a wonderful gift that the whole family can share.

I was given a complimentary copy from the publisher and voluntarily choose to review it.

Julie

Review of Britfield and The Return of the Prince

Description

One year later, the Committee has struck back with a vengeance, crippling the Resistance now scattered throughout Europe. When Devonbury Academy in Switzerland is attacked, Tom and Sarah’s only hope is to make it to a safe house in northern Italy by relying on their own experience and covert training.

 Overpowered and outnumbered, they are ruthlessly hunted throughout Italy by the Black Nobility and a team of assassins. Henry and Oliver discover a devastating truth, Detective Gowerstone is confronted by a secret from his past, and Inspector Fontaine is pushed to her limits. 

Will Tom and Sarah ever find the Britfields? Relationships will be challenged, new friendships forged, and an unparalleled finale of sacrifice, romance, revenge, and loss.

Purchase on Amazon

My Thoughts on the Book

5 Stars

The best thing about the Britfield series is the rich history of the countries and historic places the children visit. That, and the well-developed characters of Tom, Sara, and Hunter. Sara is by far my favorite. She's quirky, a genius at figuring out escapes in bad situations, and a trustworthy companion.

The story is filled with non-stop action, intense situations, and times of escape. It is one of the best action-packed novels laced with suspense that I've read in a long time. Even though it is considered a young adult book, I feel that it has enough going on to keep an adult engaged. It brought back the child in me.

I can't wait for the next in the series to see what adventures follow for Tom, Sara, and Hunter. Highly recommended. I was provided with a complimentary copy by the publisher and voluntarily choose to review it.

Julie

Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!

Review of Invincible Joy: Chasing God's Dreams for Your Life by Oliver L. Asher

Hello, Visitors to Bizwings Book Blog. 

I would like to introduce you to a Christian non-fiction titled, "Invincible Joy" written by Oliver L. Asher.  I hope you enjoy reading my post.  Be sure to click on the link to the book trailer to learn more about the book.  Also, there is a link to the giveaway. Be sure to enter.

Book Description

"I'm not an extraordinary person. I came from next to nothing, from almost nowhere. But God had a plan and a purpose for my life. He picked me up from where I was and took me places I could never have expected to go. He invited me to join him in chasing his God-sized dreams for the world. And that is where I found invincible joy. 

You may have the same story. Or at least you can, and I hope you will. That's what this book is for. I pray you will benefit from my story as you follow the Lord on your own adventure from where you came to where he wants to take you. 

I believe, as the Lord leads, you will end up with a stronger sense of God's purpose for your life and your place in his plan for the world. That's where you can find invincible joy too."

Purchase Link

Available on Amazon.

Giveaway

Enter to win a copy of the book.

About Oliver L. Asher

Oliver came out of deep poverty and brokenness to become a Division I scholarship athlete, an engineer, and the leader of a nonprofit organization working in more than 100 countries. 

Above all, he rejoices in God's grace and in the beautiful gift of his growing family. His goal is to encourage and equip others with wisdom so they can pursue God, chase God's dreams for their life, and discover Invincible Joy.

Author's Website

Learn more about the story behind the book and it's author.

Book Trailer

Full book trailer.

ANM Missions Website

Oliver is the president of Advancing Native Missions, a global missions organization.

My Thoughts on the Book

Invincible Joy is a very well-written account of the author's life journey learning what God's plan for his life was.  As I read his account, one thing that stood out to me is that it doesn't matter where you come from, or how broken you are, HE loves you as you are.  God can use you and make your life one of Invincible Joy.

The author's story made me think. Our stories are different, but we live in a broken world so we struggle to find our way. I know I did.  As the author notes, Invincible Joy comes with unshakeable faith, unshakeable love, and unshakeable hope.  God can use your gifts for HIS good. You just have to be willing.

I highly recommend this book. There is a section at the back about ANM mission work that is interesting. God finds many ways daily that we, as followers of Christ, can help.  I can see the benefit of this book for a study by small church groups as well as those who want to deepen their walk with Christ.

Review of Room 1010 by Billye Survis and Brenda E.Cortez

                                                     

Today I would like to share Room 1010 by Billye Survis and Brenda E. Cortez.  

ROOM 1010 is an uplifting, true story of how one little girl's faith inspired people from across the world to come together to pray for her and for a miracle.

Elynn had just turned ten and received a brand-new bike for her birthday when tragedy struck. In a matter of minutes, our lives were turned upside down as she suffered a traumatic injury that left us with many unknowns. At a time when Covid-19 was running rampant, and the entire world seemed to be in chaos, word of Elynn's accident quickly spread to friends, family, and strangers across the globe who heard her story and began to pray for her.

Through every challenge, Elynn's faith showed through. Despite her excruciatingly painful injury and recovery, she never complained or asked, "Why me?" She felt God chose her for this accident to help bring people to Him. Her faith, determination, and perseverance grew stronger as she worked with the doctors, nurses, and caregivers throughout her miraculous surgery and recovery.

To Purchase on Amazon

To Buy Direct

My Thoughts on the Book

Rating 5 star

Room 1010, is the beautiful story of how a tragic bike accident of 10-year-old, Elynn brought others to Christ and gave the doctors a new procedure to use for other patients.

God used Elynn's struggles to inspire others and gave her amazing strength and courage beyond her years. Every dark instance of what might be a setback, Elynn pulled through and the family could see God's hand in it. The multitude of prayer warriors around the world reached God and his mercy and healing were poured out to Elynn.

The story will inspire, instill faith, uplift your heart and fill you with hope. Highly recommended. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and voluntarily choose to review it.

Julie

Room 1010.mp4 from Steph Carse on Vimeo.

Giveaway

Matters of the Heart Blog & Review Blitz by Heidi Gray McGill

 

 

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for Matters of the Heart by Heidi Gray McGill, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Matters of the Heart 

Series: Discerning God's Best #3 

Author: Heidi Gray McGill 

Publisher: Heidi Gray McGill Books LLC 

Release Date: July 26, 2022 

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction, Christian Historical Romance

She determines to champion the needs of others, no matter the fallout.

He’s determined to be his own man and make his own way. 

Will stubbornness keep them from discovering God’s best? 

Unconventional Katie empathizes with the widows and orphans of the Civil War who are searching for a place to call home in Shumard Oak Bend. But with no one to help her, she’ll need to do it secretly, a challenge she readily accepts. Katie’s taken charge before, and she’ll do it again, no matter whom she has to outwit to get the job done. 

Hans vows to stop doing everyone else’s bidding. But he follows orders when a pair of emerald green eyes, blazing red hair, and freckles that dance on the bridge of a pert nose conscript him to duty. Be his own man. Who is he kidding? Skunks don’t change their stripes. They leave disasters in their wake wherever they go, just like him. 

Overcoming personal obstacles and finding your true self doesn’t mean going it alone. Yet the answer isn’t always in the one you seek. 

True Christian Fiction. Relatable Characters. Life-changing stories.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

My Thoughts on the Book

5 star rating

Kathleen Murphy living with Aunt Aideen, helps her run the boarding house. After the war, there are a lot of widows and orphans, and her calling seems to be to help them despite the laws against it. Her dream is to open an Orphanage. Hans Korhonen, a young man hardened by the suffering of the war and helping with the injured, is confused, feels displaced and plagued by nightmares, and feels God has abandoned him.

This is a beautiful but heartbreaking story about redemption and finding God's plan for your life, even though it comes with tough choices. The characters are well-developed and diverse, and all bring their sense of belonging and wisdom to the story. I enjoyed them all.

Another great read from the author. Highly recommended. I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Julie

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Whether historical or contemporary, you will find Heidi Gray McGill's works to be true Christian Fiction, full of God’s redeeming love. Everything Heidi writes is purposeful. She believes in bringing a reader into the awareness of who God is to them and how He interacts with them on a personal level. She does this by crafting characters so relatable you feel part of who they are. Heidi reaches deep into the reader’s heart through masterfully written words and offers ways toward healing by seamlessly applying God’s Word throughout her stories.

Connect with Heidi by visiting her website to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive an Amazon Fire 7 tablet.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 16, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 23, 2022. Winner 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 the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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