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Free and bargain books October 10, 2020

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10/10, 2020 I just had to say it, I like how it sounds.

So, moving right along to more important topics, BookRunes has a FREE suggestion for us today. (After all, what could be more important than books.)

It’s a tiny bit early for Christmas but in my mind it’s never too early. A welcome suggestion anytime of year.

Silent Stars of Bethlehem (O Little Town of Christmas)

Amazon quote:

From the time she was a child, Carly Shepherd has gazed at the silent stars in the night sky of her home town of Bethlehem, North Carolina. With her childhood overshadowed by her father’s abandonment and mother’s alcoholism, she wonders how anyone can believe in an equally silent God. After all, she’s not felt his presence any more than her earthly father. Though she remembers Christmas pageants and attending church as a child, she no longer has any use for what she considers fairy tales.

Drew Middleton is seeking shelter from a rain storm when he walks into Carly’s vendor tent at a fall festival, but he’s quickly taken with the talented artist and her creations. Feeling an instant connection, Carly is confused by her feelings, especially when she realizes his spiritual commitment.

Dealing with a wayward brother and career opportunities that may require relocation, Drew knows now is not the best time to begin a relationship, especially with someone who doesn’t share his faith.

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An interesting bargain shows up unexpectedly.

By all appearances I thought this was going to be another one-book day. It’s not. Awesome.

Rescued by the Hero: (Heroes of Freedom Ridge Book 1)

Amazon quote:

The hardest part about this fake relationship is hiding it from her brother. Especially when it doesn’t feel fake.

Joanna Drake can’t wait to escape to Freedom Ridge for the holidays. She needs to put hundreds of miles between her and her creepy coworker who won’t seem to take no for an answer. When she runs into her brother’s best friend at the ski resort, every relationship gets complicated.

Aiden Clark is shocked to find out that his best friend brought his little sister along on vacation, especially when he finds himself interested in getting to know her. When she asks him to play along as her boyfriend to ward off an unwanted pursuer, he wholeheartedly agrees despite his friend’s warnings to stay away from her.

Between hiding their fake relationship from her brother and flaunting it in front of her pursuer, Aiden and Joanna find themselves wishing the relationship was as real as it seems under the mistletoe. When their ruse is exposed and Joanna is in danger, Aiden will have to put it all on the line to bring her home.

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I’m currently reading & enjoying the book that led me to the one above.

I had to go back to the Amazon site to find the description for the current read and low and behold, a visit to the suggestion strip paid off this time.

The current read is still a bargain if you hurry.

Not Until Someday: (Hope Springs Book 7)

Amazon quote:

After spending the past five years caring for her ill grandfather, Grace Calvano is eager to honor his memory by turning his stately old house in Hope Springs into a bed-and-breakfast. All she has to do is fend off her mama, who keeps pressuring her to come home to Tennessee, marry the new youth pastor, and start raising a passel of children. Sure, Grace wants to settle down and marry someday. But only when God sees fit to send Mr. Right her way. Until then, she’s content to wait.

After a career- and relationship-ending injury, former NFL quarterback Levi Donovan is sure his someday has already come and gone. Returning to Hope Springs for the summer to help out at his dad’s construction company is not his idea of a bright future. But maybe it will be a chance to make up for lost time with his brother—and to make his dad proud at last.

The day Levi shows up to help renovate her bed-and-breakfast, Grace is sure of one thing—she and God must have gotten their wires crossed when she asked him to send Mr. Right to her doorstep. Because the motorcycle-riding, football-playing bad boy is the very definition of Mr. Wrong.

But as they get to know one another, Grace is challenged to rethink everything she thought she wanted. Can she and Levi move past their own plans to let God give them the someday neither has dared to hope for?

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I’m off to the store for birthday cards, dinner rolls, and whatever else I can find while I’m at it.

Happy Reading…

on this cool but blue skied, sunshiny day.

Free book October 08, 2020

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BookBub has a FREE suggestion for us and the reviews are positive. That’s a good recommendation for a book centered around addictions and the struggles of complex relationships.

Blue Columbine: (Grace Revealed Book 1)

Amazon quote:

Andrew Harris needs a fresh start. His alleged drinking problem cost him his job, sending him back to his childhood home in Colorado. Discovering his childhood sweetheart is still there—and still the girl he’d adored—Andrew gains new confidence that he’ll overcome the failings that had caused his downfall before.

Jamie Carson values her faith above all else. However, the loss of her mother has opened a nagging loneliness. After reuniting with Andrew—a boy she thought she’d once loved—the ache of solitude subsides, though his rejection of the faith she thought they’d shared is troubling.

With Jamie by his side, Andrew believes he can become a better man. Jamie feels the pull of Andrew’s affection, which is dangerous as she also sees that he is captive to an addiction he chooses not to acknowledge. She is as determined to remain his friend as he is set on in his attempt at self-reformation to win her heart.

As Andrew continues to pursue an intimacy Jamie knows she must guard against, blurring line between loyalty and love, things get complicated—until a devastating blow shatters their relationship.

For Jamie, one thing becomes clear: Andy needs a miracle, and she can’t be it.

Will Andrew allow the hand of grace to redeem his legacy of addiction, or will he and Jamie both remain casualties of heartbreak?

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I didn’t see anything I wanted and hadn’t read, so we have another one book night. I have a feeling today’s book won’t be a quick read, though, and will last like a full meal.

I see I’ve read other books by the same author and on the strength of that I’m looking forward to this one too.

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My current read is from a favorite author. The story line is fresh and different and I love that. This may be my favorite read this week.

Boy oh boy, some of these bargains disappear quickly. This one sure did. One needs to move quickly or miss out.

They say tension keeps the reader engaged. This novel definitely has tension and it’s not the frustrating kind. That right there makes it a winner in my estimation.

Bitter Autumn: Clean Romance Mystery (Northern Shore Intrigue Book 2)

Grey Lawson returns home after serving a seven-year sentence for vehicular homicide while under the influence. The only reason he’s coming home to Winfield is to care for his great-aunt Elsie who raised him. He can’t believe that he didn’t realize seven years ago that everything he did affected this good woman. But now will his return cause her more trouble in the small Lake Superior town?

Trish Franklin, the first female deputy in the county, walks a tightrope too. As a law officer, she should see Grey only as an ex-con. On the other hand, she is the niece of the man Grey’s reckless action killed. As unlikely as it is, Trish finds herself attracted to Grey. He always seems to appear when she needs him to help with her family which is in crisis.

As she finds herself drawn to this good, repentant man, she faces the challenge of dealing with her intractable, bitter father. And a rash of copycat accidents in the eerie fog-shrouded evenings mimic Grey’s original crime. People wonder is Grey acting out some sick compulsion of his own. How can Trish solve this series of near fatal accidents before someone is seriously injured or killed? And sort out her feelings for the man her father hates? Don’t miss this edge of your seat mystery!

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I’m going back to my book. Maybe finish I can it before lights out.

Happy Reading!

Bargain books October 06, 2020

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This is a one-thing-lead-to-another kind of day. It all started with BookRunes suggesting a bargain book and it was a run-away train from there on out.

BookRunes mentioned a brand new mystery collection just released.

Mistletoe and Murder: A Christmas Suspense Collection

Amazon quote:

Silent Night, Deadly Night. Welcome to a Killer Christmas!

Danger and suspense await you this Christmas season in Mistletoe and Murder: A Christmas Suspense Collection featuring 10 individual novellas of suspense from some of today’s most talented Christian Suspense authors.

Come with us on a heart-racing journey through the holidays as USA Today, Christian Booksellers Association, and ECPA Bestselling authors Mary Alford, Adam Blumer, Liz Bradford, Vicki Hinze, Shaen Layle, Loree Lough, Nancy Mehl, Cara Putman, Lynn Shannon, and Virginia Vaughan, weave tales of suspense that will have you flipping pages well into the new year.

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Moving on from there, Christy Barritt has a new series about to be released and the first three books are offered at the bargain price of $1.30 CDN each.

Hide and Seek (Lantern Beach Guardians Book 1)

Amazon quote:

When Cassidy and Ty find a child on the beach, mute from some kind of unknown trauma, they begin a search for her family. Clues washing up from a shipwreck reveal few details about what might have happened to the child. But, as they uncover more, they discover something that has more far reaching implications than they ever imagined . . . and now it’s a fight to save everything they love.

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Shock and Awe (Lantern Beach Guardians Book 2) 

Amazon quote:

Just when things seem to be settling down, an explosive new secret rips Ty and Cassidy’s serenity apart.

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I found these three books while checking out the suggestion strip at the bottom of the 10 book collection

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Safe and Sound (Lantern Beach Guardians Book 3)

Amazon quote:

The thrilling conclusion to the Lantern Beach Guardian series!

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I’m still trying to figure out how to make things space the way I want. It’s hit and miss, most of the time. Maybe someday I’ll get it figured out. In the meantime… we make do however we can.

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I’m currently reading a book that looks like it will be fun. At least that’s what the first pages are suggesting.

The Whistle Blower: A Wing and a Prayer Mysteries Book 1

Bad guys beware: There’s a soccer mom on your trail.

With three kids, Sandra’s life is a whirlwind of activity. Yet, sometimes she’s a little bored. 

When a referee drops dead during her son’s soccer game, and a short man claiming to be an angel asks her to help investigate—suddenly, life’s not such a routine.

The angel (is he really an angel?) tells her to go undercover as a soccer referee, which, of course, is ridiculous. She hasn’t run anywhere since high school.

But Sandra will find out she is still capable of far more than she thought—with a little help from above.

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My current read is FREE, if that will entice you.

Check out Christy Barritt too if you not read her before. She’s written many great books.

I did pre-order the first bargain (the 10 book collection,) a little while ago. It arrived yesterday but I haven’t downloaded it yet. I am looking forward to reading it though.

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’til next time…

Happy Reading!

Free books October 05, 2020

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LPC Books has FREE books for us this afternoon.

The Spindle Chair (The Barn Church Series Book 1)

Amazon quote:

“At once beautiful and haunting … a story you won’t soon forget”. ~ Ann Tatlock, Award-winning author of Once Beyond A Time, a Christy Award winner

Laurie Crane is happily married, yet she aches to have a child. During her husband’s moments of quiet sadness she senses a void she believes only a child can fill. Pierce wants a child, too and has spent years praying alongside his wife. But he has no idea that a “yes” from God will unearth long-buried memories and bring their marriage to the brink of catastrophe. What happens when “happily-ever-after” becomes more than you can bear?

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Among the Poppies 

Amazon quote:

The ideal lady wears lace, speaks quietly, and never—under any circumstances—fixes an automobile. But Gwyn Ruthers has never cared two snaps about being the ideal lady. With the war to end all wars exploding across the English Channel, she leaves behind her restrictive life as a chauffer’s daughter to serve in an all-female ambulance unit in France. She’s not about to let her social status or gender prevent her from serving her country. Not even a handsome captain can distract her from her mission. Most of the time.

Captain William Crawford wouldn’t wish the ravages of war on any man, much less the captivating woman who insists on driving into battle instead of staying safely at home. He can’t deny that the troops need more medical help, but not when it puts innocent women in danger. How can he lead his men against the Jerries while worrying about Gwyn’s safety?

Bound together by circumstances, Gwyn and William can’t stop the love growing between them. Can their relationship survive, or will it become another casualty of war?

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Chasing the Butterfly

Amazon quote:

From a vineyard in the south of France to the sophisticated city of Paris, Ella Moreau searches for the hope and love she lost as a young girl when her mother abandoned the family. Through a series of secret paintings, her art becomes the substitute for lost love—the metaphor of her life. But when her paintings are discovered, the intentions of those she loves are revealed.

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Thankfully, I’ve read & enjoyed all three of these FREE books. My TBR list is already struggling without adding any more. The upside is, I have lots of choices so I’m not complaining too loudly.

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Currently I’m on book two of a three book collection. This is a continued story series, definitely not stand alone, but I’m enjoying it.

The If I Run Series: If I Run, If I’m Found, If I Live 

Book 2

If I’m Found

In this riveting sequel to the USA TODAY bestseller If I Run, evil lurks, drawing Casey out of the shadows . . . but there is light shining in the darkness.

Casey Cox is still on the run, fleeing prosecution for a murder she didn’t commit. Dylan Roberts—her most relentless pursuer—is still on her trail, but his secret emails insist he knows the truth and wants to help her. He’s let her escape before when he had her in his grasp, but trust doesn’t come easily.

As Casey works to collect evidence about the real murderers, she stumbles on another unbearable injustice: an abused child and a suicidal man who’s also been falsely accused. Casey risks her own safety to right this wrong and protect the little girl from her tormenters. But doing so is risky and may result in her capture—and if she’s captured, she has no doubt she’ll be murdered before she ever steps foot in a jail cell.

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Happy Reading…

…from one happy lady. This day warmed up considerably after the cold snap we’ve been having the last while. It was a lovely day to get out and work on yard cleanup before the snow flies.

I haven’t heard any snow predicted yet for this year but we are remembering last year at this time. A gigantic winter storm blew through dumping huge piles of snow, taking out thousands of trees, and causing massive power outages.

The early frost we’ve been having this last week or so seems like a piece of cake compared to the weather we had this time last year.

Not knowing what the weather will do from one year to the next is actually a blessing sometimes.

Favorite books this week September 23, 2020

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This has been an exceptional week for excellent books. Three in a row. I feel like it’s been my lucky week.

A Distance Too Grand (American Wonders Collection Book #1)

What I liked most about this book:

  • There was a whole cast of strong well developed characters. I loved all but one of them. You might even agree with me on this.
  • There was a fresh and interesting story line with more than enough tension and intrigue to keep me reading. All of it well balanced to avoid reader frustration. (I’m a big fan of no frustration.)
  • An amazing setting.
  • I won’t tell you about the ending. Surprises are a good thing.
  • I could easily read this one again. It was my favorite.

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Number two on the list was my next favorite.

Blessing Bentley (Marriages of Conviction Book 1)

What I liked most about this book.

  • The writing style was quirky. This created light moments which made the read fun.
  • The foundation of the story was thought provoking. At no point was there intent to convince the reader of a particular point of view. This was both unusual and greatly appreciated. The what if question was posed and thoroughly explored. In the end any conclusions would be left to the reader.
  • Sometimes (many times, if we are honest) the writer has an agenda and it is to sell an idea. With his/her attention focused on the idea the story falters as underdeveloped and weak. A simple vehicle to carry the idea. In this case that didn’t happen. There was an agenda of sorts but it ended up as foundational to the story. It worked beautifully.
  • The characters were relatable and lovable.
  • There was tension in all the right places without a hint of frustration in the reader over the progression of the story.
  • I’m not in a hurry to read this again but I could easily.

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Number three:

The Wedding Bond (Christian Romance): Sacred Bond South: Book One

What I liked most about this book:

  • It was both light (not shallow) and deep (not dark). Stories with substance are my favorites.
  • As with the other two books; the characters were relatable and strong. They had flaws and struggles which made them all the more real. I couldn’t help but love them.
  • The plot was unique. Not once did I wonder if I’d read this book before (a thought that runs through my mind more often than I like it to.)
  • Overall, it was worth my time and I’m glad I took a chance on it.

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Happy Reading.

I hope your reading week has been as awesome as mine.

Free books September 21, 2020

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This FREE suggestion is from BookRunes

The Wedding Bond : Sacred Bond South: Book One

Amazon quote:

When café owner Kaylee Kinney vows to marry within a year, she’s picturing a nice, peaceful life with a nice, peaceful husband. Enter Phelan O’Donnell: army ranger, bad boy, and Kaylee’s high school ex. What Kaylee doesn’t know, when she enters into a “practice” relationship with Phelan, is that he’s harboring a secret that could rip her family apart. Their chemistry is explosive and their values are finally in sync. Their trial run just might turn into an actual marriage. But can they withstand a shocking revelation about their own history without breaking each others’ hearts?

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LPC Books has a few FREE suggestions too.

I’ve read this first one. I enjoy Gansky.

Who Is Harrison Sawyer? 

Amazon quote:

His son … a stranger … now dead.

Desperate to rediscover his estranged son, Marshall Sawyer agrees to finish the autobiography Harrison began before his untimely death. But the passages described in the book do not match the life Marshall remembers with his son. Together with his daughter-in-law and a professional football player friend, Marshall embarks on a journey to find out the truth. What happened to the boy in the missing years after Harrison ran away at age fifteen and his marriage years later? As he begins to investigate, he soon discovers a dangerous plot—one that puts his life in danger, and the future of America at risk.

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This next one is a short read.

Everlasting Light 

Amazon quote:

The American Civil War has ended, but Alaina McKenna still awaits news about her husband, Braeden. Did he die in a Yankee prison? Was he buried in a shallow grave on a Virginia battlefield? Or has he turned his back on the specter of death and loss around him and sought solitude west of the Mississippi River, never to return home, again?

As Christmas nears, Alaina deflects the advances of a suitor in the neighboring county, choosing to cling instead to hope and her belief that Braeden will return. As winter’s chill settles upon her farm, Alaina cries out to God in one final Christmas Prayer.

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Romance Box Set: Secrets in Savannah: Hearts in Georgia Romance Collection

I’ve read all of these too.

Amazon quote:

The Caretaker’s Son

Symon Sinclair grew up in the caretaker’s cottage. Now a successful writer in New York, he’s returned home to Savannah to thank his mentor, Miss B, for all her support. But it’s her niece Annabelle who greets him at the door. Symon remembers the little rich girl who never gave him a moment’s notice. Now she’s a beauty who has more depth than he’d ever imagined. As they spend time together, Symon begins to question his attitude toward life—and Annabelle.

Former beauty queen Annabelle Yarwood had her life all planned out—until she came face-to-face with the caretaker’s son. Suddenly those plans seem stifling. Just as Annabelle begins letting Symon into her heart, she discovers he’s been keeping a secret about his life in New York. Has their love story ended before it’s even begun?

Lessons in Love

Megan Conley can’t believe her eyes. That handsome man who keeps popping up all over town looks a lot like her boyfriend, Michael. But Megan hasn’t seen him since he vanished unexpectedly, leaving her searching for answers. Turns out the stranger is Michael’s cousin, Noah, and he seems to have her best interests at heart. Could Noah help explain Michael’s absence?

Noah can’t deny his attraction to Megan. But he made a promise to his cousin, and he’s a man of his word. He’ll help her move on with her life—but he can go no further. Unless the key he holds to Michael’s disappearance is also the key to Megan’s heart…

Seeking Mr. Perfect

Lizzie Marshall is giving up on dating. Then Mr. Perfect walks into her life. Her mystery man is the one she’s been waiting for—except that he’s dressed as a clergyman! Outspoken Lizzie wouldn’t make a good pastor’s wife, so it’s for the best that she’s no longer looking for a husband.

When Lizzie mistakes him for a clergyman, Zach Grant plays along, if only to get close to the sweet beauty who has sworn off men. Though Zach has business reasons for wanting to know her better, soon his feelings for Lizzie become all too personal. But will his deception keep her from giving love one last chance?

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My current read is The Wedding Bond : Sacred Bond South: Book One, top of the page. I downloaded it last night and needed a change of pace for a moment.

Happy Reading!

Free books September 19, 2020

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Our reading selections have been on the heavy side lately. Nothing wrong with that. I prefer deep truth be told. Comic relief is needed every now and then, though. Chautona Havig is an author able to provide fun and quirky. Her latest freebie looks to be just that, comic relief.

This suggestion showed up on BookRunes

Blessing Bentley (Marriages of Conviction Book 1)

Amazon quote:

Bentley Girard’s about to propose… to a guy she doesn’t even love.

Not THAT way anyway.

After studying everything the Bible has to say about marriage, she’s decided she wants in. Now. So who’s going to take her up on that offer?

And just why did no one remind her that those vows include that little word, “love?”

Oops!

With her Bible in her hip pocket and a shiny new ring on her finger, Bentley navigates this new world of marriage with grace and… oh, who is she kidding? She flounders until she gets a sure footing and hangs on tight.

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I have to tell you. The trouble with my current read is I can’t hop, skip, and jump through the chapters just to get done. It’s a long book, and I have to read every page not to miss important details.

OK, so I don’t really wish every book could be quickly skipped through. I love must-read-every-page-not-to-miss-anything books. They are always worth the time it takes.

From Across the Ancient Waters: Wales (The Green Hills of Snowdonia Book 1)

Amazon quote:

After being sent to his uncle’s estate, young Percy Drummond has no intention of letting the country atmosphere soften his rebellious ways. Then he meets a village girl, Gwyneth Barrie, and her friendship changes his life.

When Percy later returns, his intriguing friend has grown into a young woman. But by this time, Percy has caught the eye of his beautiful cousin Florilyn…who has also become Gwyneth’s friend. What will result of their threefold friendship? And what repercussions will his uncle’s surprising request have for them all?

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This book is still at bargain prices if you’d like it.

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That’s it for the moment. I’ll post again if more shows up later.

Happy Reading!

Free book September 18, 2020

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BookRunes has a FREE suggestion for us and after a few pages, yup, I’m going to read it. I love how the author throws out a scrap of information then gradually builds a profile, advances the story, and captures my interest – all at the same time. I can’t wait to hear what happens next.

I can tell you one more thing. After reading the synopsis… the beginning was totally unexpected. Love it.

Of Good and Evil

Amazon quote:

Evil comes in many forms, and it isn’t always in the devil you can’t see.

Olivia O’Reilly leaves Charleston and her career as an investigative journalist behind. She finds refuge in the small town of Pine Hill, Georgia, where no one knows who she is or the mistakes she’s made. She needs anonymity as much as peace and quiet.

However, when unusual things begin occurring in the sleepy community of Pine Hill, Olivia’s innate curiosity draws her back into dangerous habits.

The old Hadley Mansion, a vacant and dilapidated eyesore, is purchased by a company called A Vital Force. This seems like a good thing. But during an uninvited visit to the house, Olivia makes a sinister discovery that sends a chill down her spine.

A suspicious gas explosion kills and injures dozens of citizens. The survival of one victim is being kept a well-guarded secret. Why?

Olivia knows she must discover the truth about what’s happening in this small town she now calls home…whatever the cost.

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There have been other suggestions this morning but nothing to capture my interest the way this one book has. The standard has been set and I won’t spoil the mood by filling this list with stories not measuring up. Maybe another post can happen later on, if I happen to see another must-have.

Currently I’m reading (just started actually) one of yesterday’s great choices. We are still getting to know Gwyneth in chapter one.

One thing is already clear; the villagers don’t really know her and that doesn’t stop them from hating her.

From Across the Ancient Waters: Wales (The Green Hills of Snowdonia Book 1)

After being sent to his uncle’s estate, young Percy Drummond has no intention of letting the country atmosphere soften his rebellious ways. Then he meets a village girl, Gwyneth Barrie, and her friendship changes his life.

When Percy later returns, his intriguing friend has grown into a young woman. But by this time, Percy has caught the eye of his beautiful cousin Florilyn…who has also become Gwyneth’s friend. What will result of their threefold friendship? And what repercussions will his uncle’s surprising request have for them all?

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Happy reading!

… maybe we’ll meet again a little later, you just never know.

Free and Bargain books September 17, 2020

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This post has turned into an introduction to Michael Phillips, well known, eclectic, prolific author. I will admit – I’ve read and enjoyed Michael Phillips for years, decades. His stories do not qualify as light reading. But they are interesting and captivating to those who enjoy deeper subjects.

It all started with this morning’s FREE BookBub daily suggestion. I’ve read the author’s note and the first few pages and I’m hooked on this one. I don’t recall reading anything of his similar to this one so this will be a new experience for me.

Destiny Junction: Behind Every Door is a Life, and Behind Every Life is a Destiny 

Amazon quote:

Destiny Junction is a small town, not unlike any other small town in America. As its name implies, however, it becomes the place where many people’s lives meet destiny.


Through one young lady’s obedient Christian life and the work of the Holy Spirit subsequent to her murder, the lives of many people in the town of Destiny Junction are transformed.

This is their story…a story about life…and what it means…or what it ought to mean.

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Then the – Customers who bought this item also bought – string was the beginning of the abundance coming next. Most everything from this point on is at the bargain price of $0.99 each.

First is the three book historical series American Dreams. All three of these books follow the same family as they live through the American Civil War with the freeing of slaves in the southern states. This story is not for the faint of heart. The series needs to be read in sequence to get the full story but you could pick and choose and it would still be OK.

Dream of Freedom, Dream of Life, Dream of Love

Amazon quote:

Best-selling author Michael Phillips transports readers to the South, as the seeds of Civil War are sown—and those against slavery take a stand.

In the antebellum South, Richmond and Carolyn Davidson live lives of ease as wealthy plantation owners. But even though their prosperity and livelihood depend on slave ownership, their Christian consciences speak against the practice.

When the Davidsons decide to follow their own moral conviction and God’s will by freeing their slaves, they face consequences they never could have anticipated. Risking their lives as an important link in the Underground Railroad, helping runaway slaves escape to the northern states, the Davidsons must rely on their wits—and God’s protection—to stay alive.

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Next is the Secret of the Rose series set in Russia. Over the course of four books it follows the life of a single family from the 1930s pre-war Prussia to escaping divided, Berlin Wall, Germany, to America post cold war with Russia, Another story not for the faint of heart.

The Eleventh Hour, A Rose Remembered,  Escape to Freedom, Dawn of Liberty

Amazon quote:

In 1930s pre-war Prussia, Baron von Dortmann lives an idyllic life with his daughter Sabina. A devoted gardener and father, the Baron teaches his daughter powerful lessons about life, creation, and Gods love during treasured walks in the estate’s beautiful gardens.

But Sabina is growing up, and the Baron’s beloved Prussia is changing. Now a beautiful young woman, Sabina has caught the eye of a handsome young American, Matthew.

Meanwhile, a cloud is gathering on the horizon as the Nazis seize power in neighboring Germany. As he strives to protect his family and follow his own moral compass, Baron von Dortmann will face heart-wrenching decisions, with only Gods guidance to light the way.

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Next is the two book series The Green Hills of Snowdonia  set in Wales. This one also needs to be read in order. Judging by the reviews it will be an emotional experience

From Across the Ancient Waters, The Treasure of the Celtic Triangle

Amazon quote:

After being sent to his uncle’s estate, young Percy Drummond has no intention of letting the country atmosphere soften his rebellious ways. Then he meets a village girl, Gwyneth Barrie, and her friendship changes his life.

When Percy later returns, his intriguing friend has grown into a young woman. But by this time, Percy has caught the eye of his beautiful cousin Florilyn…who has also become Gwyneth’s friend. What will result of their threefold friendship? And what repercussions will his uncle’s surprising request have for them all?

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I’ve read many American Civil War stories over the years and since I don’t have a hope of reading all ten of today’s more than full length novels I’m gong to pass on the American Dreams series.

I have also read series by other authors, and maybe even this one too, set in Russia during the ’30s, ’40s and ’50s, but not nearly as many as I have of American Civil War stories. There probably isn’t much hope of me making it through all four of these 600 – 700 page books either but …. I hate to break up the set when I have a good chance to get it all. I’m sitting here thinking I may have read this Secret of the Rose series before. If that’s true I’ll be finished sooner than expected. Good deal.

I’ve not read The Green Hills of Snowdonia series and it does look interesting.

I’m going home with seven new lengthy not-light-reading books. (smile)

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Happy Reading!

… on this brain foggy Thursday that feels like Friday. I’m hoping today’s rambling made sense.

Free and bargain books September 14, 2020

/ For the Love of Books / Leave a comment

We have a few interesting choices this time.

1531 Entertainment has a bargain suggestion.

The Maid of Fairbourne Hall 

Amazon quote:

Pampered Margaret Macy flees London in disguise to escape pressure to marry a dishonorable man. With no money and nowhere else to go, she takes a position as a housemaid in the home of Nathaniel Upchurch, a suitor she once rejected in hopes of winning his dashing brother. Praying no one will recognize her, Margaret fumbles through the first real work of her life. If she can last until her next birthday, she will gain an inheritance from a spinster aunt–and sweet independence. But can she remain hidden as a servant even when prying eyes visit Fairbourne Hall?

Observing both brothers as an “invisible” servant, Margaret learns she may have misjudged Nathaniel. Is it too late to rekindle his admiration? And when one of the family is nearly killed, Margaret alone discovers who was responsible. Should she come forward, even at the risk of her reputation and perhaps her life? And can she avoid an obvious trap meant to force her from hiding?

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LPC Books has a few FREE suggestions for us

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Deception: Missing … Presumed Dead (When Darkness Falls Book 2)

Amazon quote:

Their parents paid the ransom — the kidnappers released one child.

Haunted by her sister’s desperate cries, Tess Howard spent twenty-four years searching for Rhona. Now, reunited at last, the sisters unearth a mystery that could cost them their lives . . . and the life of the one man who knows their dark secret.

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Out of all of today’s treasures, Deception is the only one I’ve read. A good day indeed.

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The Ticket

Amazon quote:

Tray Dunaway, an ordinary teenager from a poor Southern family, longs to become part of the popular clique at school. Her mother, Evelyn, lies in bed most days with her bipolar tendency toward extreme highs or desperate lows. Meanwhile, Tray’s grandmother Ginny, still grieving over the loss of her husband, would love to move out and find a place of her own. Maybe even a bit of romance to replace the loss she feels. But given the sorry state of the family’s finances that’s not possible.

Then the Dunaways’ luck changes. Or so it seems.

Tray’s father drives a down-and-out friend of the family, Pee Wee Johnson, to Hazard, Illinois, so Johnson can buy lottery tickets. As a gesture of thanks, Johnson gives a ticket to Tray’s father. And what do you know? The Dunaways’ are suddenly rich.

When Johnson demands his cut of the winnings, Tray’s dad refuses. As Evelyn’s illness spirals toward madness, Johnson threatens the family. Now, what seems like a stroke of good fortune becomes a dangerous game of life and death for Tray Dunaway and her family.

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The Widow of Rose Hill (The Women of Rose Hill Book 2)

Amazon quote:

Widowed during the war, Natalie Ellis finds herself solely responsible for Rose Hill plantation. When Union troops arrive with a proclamation freeing the slaves, all seems lost. How can she run the plantation without slaves? In order to save her son’s inheritance she strikes a deal with the arrogant, albeit handsome, Colonel Maish. In exchange for use of her family’s property, the army will provide workers to bring in her cotton crop. But as her admiration for the colonel grows, a shocking secret is uncovered. Can she trust him with her heart and her young, fatherless son?

Natalie Ellis is everything Colonel Levi Maish loathes: a Southern slave owner. When he and his men arrived in Texas with the Emancipation Proclamation, freeing slaves still in bondage despite the war having ended, he feels little concern for the trail of plantation owners left in its wake without workers. But the plight of the beautiful Widow Ellis stirs to life his compassion and the heart he’d thought cold as stone after witnessing the carnage of war. While the army camps on her land, Levi finds himself contemplating a future with Natalie and Samuel. But when he learns where her husband perished during the war, he knows a life with Natalie is impossible. How could she ever forgive him for what he’d done in battle on the banks of the Bull Run?

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And, one more I happened upon. Free

Summer Storms (Seasons of Faith Book 1) 

Amazon quote:

Her job as concierge at Hotel Lago, a boutique hotel in downtown Orlando is challenging and fills her need to be successful but one thing is missing. She loves the historic homes in the downtown area but fears she will never be able to afford one.

When a once in a lifetime opportunity to renovate a broken down home comes along she snaps it up. Sparks and clashes with her handsome, but deeply troubled contractor, Jeffrey Robbins threaten to slow the renovation but they fade as Orlando becomes the target of three summer storms, hurricanes Charlie, Frances and Jeanne.

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Happy reading!