mystery

Exciting new books August 27, 2024

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It’s a good day! An enticing new book with an author I’ve not read. I can hardly wait to read it.

Dangerous Intent: Clean small town romantic suspense (Northern Pines Suspense Book 4)

Ornery livestock, an isolated farmhouse, and a dangerous stranger lurking in the forest–why on earth had she taken this job?

Ethan needs help
While away having surgery in a distant city and then recuperating at home, Ethan desperately needs summer help caring for his son and small farm.

Abby and her new rescue dog need a home
But it has been impossible to find a place for the summer in the busy, northern Wisconsin resort town. Especially one that will accept both her and her dog. Ethan’s offer is a perfect solution, right?

It is…until she must learn to deal with his flock of ornery goats, a herd of cattle escaping, and a litter of new puppies born while he’s away.

And now, an armed and dangerous stranger is lurking in the shadows..
A man who will stop at nothing. Not even murder, to get what he wants.

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And there is another suggestion I’m excited about. The first chapter has me wanting more.

Running to You: Amnesia in Shadow Cove (The Wright Heroes of Maine Book 1) 

Sam never understood why Eliza left him five years ago, ghosting him without explanation. He’s avoided romance ever since, focusing on building his business. Money might not keep him warm at night, but it can sure buy a lot of blankets.

Then Eliza shows up on his doorstep and throws herself into his arms. She can’t explain her bruises or the head injury that’s left her with no memories of the past five years, including their breakup. No matter how good it feels to hold her, though, there’s no way he’s getting sucked into romance again.

He’ll deliver Eliza to her mother, and that will be that. But instead of finding her mom, they’re met by two attackers and barely escape alive. Despite the danger to his life and his heart, he can’t leave Eliza to fend for herself.

Together, they embark on a journey to reconstruct her past while evading the men chasing her. As Sam and Eliza close in on the truth, their romance reignites, but her secret threatens to destroy them both.

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Two books, equally enticing and now I have to choose. Or maybe not. Maybe I will delay the difficult choice and finish the current read.

Season of Wonder Boxset:

This romance series will be a needed break from the suspenseful recent reads. The next new one on the list adds an even deeper level of stress and was going to be about trafficking. I think it will be a good read when I do get to it but I need a moment first.

Every Star in the Sky

She is willing to testify against her trafficker.
If she can stay alive that long.

“You’re safe here, Starr.”
How many times has Detective Cole Blacksky said that to her since helping her escape the life she’d been forced into eight years earlier?
Starr desperately wants to believe him, but she knows Brady Erickson, her former captor, too well. Although Cole has promised her protective custody on his family’s remote ranch, no place on earth is safe enough. Brady will stop at nothing to permanently silence her before she ever reaches the witness stand.
And he is powerful enough to do it.
If Starr wants to help the other women, she has no choice but to put herself in God’s hands. And Cole’s. But the longer she and Cole stay hidden, the more her life is at risk. And her heart.

Happy Reading.

I hope you are feeling inspired to look for a favorite book too.

This one looks good August 21, 2024

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It’s from an author I’ve not read and I’m excited about it. Mainly because the first few pages are looking good and the story has a fresh twist to it, so far at least.

After an innovative plot the next most important feature of the author’s style, for me anyway, is a “show not tell” approach. It is so much more relatable when there is movement taking the reader along for the ride. Strong characters are good too. This book has it so far.

One more absolutely necessary element, in my opinion, is a scaled back version of the whole PDA (public displays of affection) and high powered hormonal reactions to every touch or look.

They say you aren’t supposed to annoy your readers. This practice annoys me enough that I skip huge chunks of the story in rebellion, usually after a few chapters, It gets old real quick, I tell you, and it weakens the story. I think that’s my biggest objection of all… a weak story.

Maybe that’s why this passion element is added in to the plot so often. That route is easier than developing something strong and captivating.

And while we are on the subject … so much of it is unbelievable. How many normal people do you know who could give in to a passionate kiss in the middle of a crowd? Especially in a new relationship where they don’t know each other all that well.

I can tell you not very many, How do I know you ask? I’ve been trying to count up all of the passionate occasions I’ve observed in my lifetime. I’m still at zero. It would probably give the story more drama but real life people look for private nooks and crannies for those intense moments.

Unbelievable, I tell you.

It’s time to move along. I don’t know if this new story will be full of hormonal drama. It could be but I’m sincerely hoping not.

Saving Grace (A Horses and Hearts Inspirational Romance)

When winning is everything, there isn’t much room for grace.

For feisty and driven Hannah Whitney, winning is everything. She and her dressage horse Amazing Grace are headed towards the final qualifying competition for the Olympic games, when her trainer suddenly quits. With the competition just ten weeks away, Hannah’s dad hires Chase Livingston as the new trainer.

Chase is a Gold Medalist in dressage. After an incident in the show ring one day, he loses his nerve and goes into hiding from the media. He’s reluctant to come out just to train the spoiled, rich daughter of a real estate tycoon, but the money is good.

Hannah doesn’t want to be seen with him, but if she’s going to be ready for the competition, he may be her only hope. What she doesn’t count on is how attractive he is…

When faced with the question of what is most important in life, can two people with different answers ever find common ground?

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One more book before we go. Of the 7 book series this is the only one I don’t have. Awesome.

The Truest Home (Alaskan Hearts Book 3)

She just found out that everything she’s ever loved is a lie…

Liz Benjamin has lost her place in the world. Not only are her best friends too busy for her, but her father just married a horrible woman who has now moved into their home with her two horrible daughters.

Worse still, a handsome stranger arrives in town for the wedding and starts asking all the wrong questions. With his help, Liz soon finds that everything she thought she knew about herself is based on a terrible lie.

But just how far back does the deception go, and how will finding the truth about Liz’s past change her future?

Join Liz, Scarlett, Lauren, and their courageous team of sled dogs in this unforgettable tale of tenacity, trust, and finding where you belong from a New York Times bestselling author.

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I have a funny feeling that I have read this story in a collection somewhere along the line. I hope I’m wrong about that.

Happy Reading

Books I want to read Part two Aug 18, 2024

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The first book I wanted to read tonight was book 1 in a series. Now that I’ve browsed a little more, I can’t pass up the opportunity to read books 2 and 3 as well. They are all on at a promotional price and it won’t last.

Speaking of promotional prices, one of my favorite authors offers his latest books (after a reasonable period of time, of course) at an amazing price for a day or two. I haven’t been checking my emails often enough and I MISSED it.

I’m a penny-pincher. Have to be practical, don;t you know. My appetite for books would bankrupt me if I didn’t pay attention to great price opportunities. That’s why I like to pass the chances on to you. So you can read with abandon too.

So here we go. 12 books by the time we are done this one!

Every Flower of the Field (two sparrows for a penny book 2)

Safe is the most dangerous feeling of all.

For as long as she can remember, Rose Galway has been a captive, controlled by one man or another. To her, though, God is the one holding the keys, refusing to set her free despite the desperate pleas she has sent heavenward.

Detective Laken Jones has known hardship too, including the daily trauma of racism. Still, nothing he has gone through compares to what Rose has endured. He wants nothing more than for her to experience hope and healing and maybe even happiness in her life.

But first he has to find her.

Laken is willing to risk everything to set Rose free. And to help her find her way to God. Even if that means letting go of her—and the future he envisions for the two of them—forever.

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Every Bird That Falls (two sparrows for a penny book 3)

Lies have kept them apart for eight years.
Now the truth could destroy them completely.

Bomb squad leader Tag Monroe’s world is shattered when his sister and her foster sister are abducted by a human trafficker. Eight years later, the two of them have been miraculously freed. As thrilled as he is to be reunited with his sister, Tag has lingering questions.
How did Jae-won Lin, the third foster sister, elude capture that night? Why didn’t she call the police or Tag to let them know what happened? And where has she been for the last eight years? He loved Jae once, but he can’t let her back into his life until he has more information.
Unfortunately, time is running out. Someone powerful is coming after Jae, bent on revenge. If Tag can’t get to her before her mysterious pursuer, Jae could take the answers to all Tag’s questions to her grave.
Along with any hope the two of them might have to find their way to each other again.

The explosive Christian romantic suspense series two sparrows for a penny by multi-award-winning author Sara Davison continues with this on-the-edge-suspense love story that might finally answer the question: Where was Jae?

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Big change coming up now, hold on.

Season of Wonder Boxset: Heartwarming Contemporary Christian Romance Book Collection (Boxset Series: Small Town Sweet Romance Collection 3)

SEASON OF WONDER BOXSET is a 10-book mega bundle that includes:

Finding Home
With her world in turmoil, how can Chrissy find the happiness she always dreamed of – filled with love, laughter, family, and renewed faith?

Crisis of Faith
Torn between pain and love, Jack and Lena must overcome much if they are to have a shot at a future together. Time is running out, but God has a plan.

Christmas Angel Hope
Will Claire take what Travis is offering her? Is Travis beyond his own grief enough to teach her how to give herself permission to love again?

Home for Christmas
Loss, grief, new love, and redemption are on the horizon for Sarah. All she must do is put in the effort and happiness could be hers once again.

Mason
Can Gracie believe and truly let the past go? Or will she hold onto her fears?

Home Is Where Your Heart Is
Will Jessica be able to rise above her past and show faith and trust in Kaedon? Will she finally find a place to call home – a place to build a family?

New Beginnings
Filled with faith, friendship, and the promise of forever, this heartwarming novel is intriguing, sweet, and heartfelt.

Michelle and Tyler
Can a crisis of grief and faith lead to new hope and happiness for Michelle and Tyler?

Forever Bodyguard
Is Emma and Keith’s love for each other enough for their second chance together?

Songs of the Heart
Excited by new opportunities, and the chance at love, Sue dives into an entanglement of danger and suspense. Is Mike the one for her?

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That was easy.

A book I want to read. August 18, 2024

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A BookBub email suggestion caught my eye and I want to check it out. It is a tough subject involving trafficking and I’m hoping it will a rescue story. We are always in need of a hero to come in and save the day. My heart breaks for the victims of these monsters. and I’m hoping rescues can happen in real life. I think they do, just not as often as we would hope.

Every Star in the Sky (two sparrows for a penny book 1)

She is willing to testify against her trafficker.
If she can stay alive that long.

“You’re safe here, Starr.”
How many times has Detective Cole Blacksky said that to her since helping her escape the life she’d been forced into eight years earlier?
Starr desperately wants to believe him, but she knows Brady Erickson, her former captor, too well. Although Cole has promised her protective custody on his family’s remote ranch, no place on earth is safe enough. Brady will stop at nothing to permanently silence her before she ever reaches the witness stand.
And he is powerful enough to do it.
If Starr wants to help the other women, she has no choice but to put herself in God’s hands. And Cole’s. But the longer she and Cole stay hidden, the more her life is at risk.
And her heart.

TW: human trafficking, some violence, sexual intimacy inferred (clean and closed door)

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I like strong female characters and by my estimation this looks like a good one. One thing about frontier stories – they all had to be strong characters to survive.

A Heart as Untamed as Thunder: A Historical Western Romance Novel (Hearts Across the Frontier) 

Maddie MacDougall has spent all of her childhood among horses and she can’t imagine a life without them. The yearning for adventure she has always harbored in her heart will lead her to a match sent from heaven, Carter, a horse breeder in Wyoming. She will soon be intrigued by his tales of wild mustangs and his chivalrous manners but she will also realize that his obsession with Thunder, the legendary stallion of Croy Canyon, can endanger both the animal and their relationship.

When love fuels the heart though, all obstacles can be overcome…

Carter Stone has led a harsh life among the wild horses, full of challenges and adventures. He has always wished to have someone by his side who shares this passion and when the match with Maddie is arranged, he is overjoyed. What he did not expect was to find himself stricken with her unique beauty or her rare wit, with which she challenges him when she differs from his methods.

Will he be able to tame her wild heart?

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There is another book suggestion in this series too. I’ve experienced one of the authors but not this one. I’m excited to see if the story lives up to the great impression of the first few pages.

A Sheriff for the Gracious Widow: A Historical Western Romance Novel (Hearts Across the Frontier) 

Orphaned at a young age, Emily Carter is left devastated when her husband dies under mysterious circumstances. Determined to uncover the truth, she seeks help from the handsome new sheriff, Jacob. But her new ally might be able to give her more than mere answers…

Can Emily overcome her guilt and allow herself to open up to the growing affection she feels for Jacob?

After the tragic death of his older brother, Jacob Turner harbors a deep sense of responsibility toward his small community of Willow Creek. When Emily seeks his help to solve the mystery of her husband’s death, Jacob realizes he’s in trouble. The young widow embodies everything he’s ever wanted, but he knows he can’t have her while she’s still in mourning…

Can Jacob successfully navigate the delicate situation between duty and his personal involvement?

When Emily discovers she’s being followed, Jacob must put his growing feelings aside and work tirelessly to keep her safe from the schemes of a ruthless killer. As dark secrets are revealed, will they find a way to be together or will Emily’s tragic past and Jacob’s sense of duty prevent them from finding happiness?

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Another enticing suggestion. How can I possibly pass that up?

River Falls Books 1-3 Box Set: Three Small Town Christian Romances 

Pieces of Forever: Eight years ago, Ava and Joseph had the perfect future planned—until a terrible accident changed everything. Unwilling to believe they could still have a future, Ava made Joseph promise to leave and live out their dreams without her. Joseph has never broken a promise to Ava. Until now. Because before he made that stupid promise to leave, they’d made each other another promise—one of forever. And he’s determined to return to River Falls and show her that his promise still stands…

Songs of Home: In the wake of a very public breakup, country music star Lydia St. Peter finds herself in need of a place of refuge. She doesn’t know why she thinks she’ll find it with the family she never knew she had in River Falls, Tennessee, but at least the small town will offer her the privacy she so desperately craves. She never expects it to offer more—in the form of her new landlord, Liam, and his troubled teenage daughter. But when Lydia is presented with an opportunity that could rocket her to household-name status, she has to decide whether she’s willing to give up everything she’s gained in River Falls to chase her dreams—or if her heart has finally found its home.

Memories of the Heart: As a Christian counselor, Simeon knows he should be able to help his wife cope with the losses they’ve suffered. And it’s killing him that he can’t. It seems like the more he tries, the harder Abigail pushes him away. He’s determined to save their marriage… but what if it’s already too late? When an accident leaves Abigail with amnesia, stealing her memories of their life together, will it be the end of their marriage? Or is God giving them a second chance to build a love even stronger than they remember?

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This is long and there are more and I can’t resist.

Another post is the only way to go

I’m having so much fun.

New books July 21, 2024

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It has been awhile, a long while, since the last post. It’s been awhile since I’ve been looking for books too. Somehow or other I am feeling inspired to look today. It’s the beginning of my search and who knows how it will go, but at least one has caught my interest though so it’s a promising start.

Before I get to sharing my first find, I should share an author I’ve discovered in the last month or so.

His genre is mystery/thriller and I like his style. I love his characters, his plots, and the way the story flows along. I’ve read three in the first few weeks of discovery. They were hard cover books and it was a surprise to find I could still enjoy such a thing since I’m hooked on the beauty of e books.

His name is David Baldacci and he is a prolific author.

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The book I’m adding to my collection today is also from a prolific author. I don’t love him as much as Baldacci but he does show up in my downloads quite regularly and is a worthwhile read. I read book one in this series in 2020 so book two should be a welcome addition.

The Homecoming (A Homefront Novel Book 2)

Sean Collins is barely home from fighting Nazis in Europe when he’s ordered to serve on a USO bond tour with a bunch of Hollywood stars…a reluctant hero. All Sean wants is to stay home with his son and to grieve his wife’s loss in private. When Sean asks Katherine Townsend–-Patrick’s former social worker–-to be his nanny while Sean’s on the road, he has no idea how this decision will impact his life.

Could it be the key to his future happiness and the mending of his heart? Or will the war once again threaten his chances for a new start?

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This next one looks interesting enough for me to give it a chance, I’ve not read this author though so it will be a new experience. The first few paragraphs suggest it could be promising, here’s hoping.

A Bride to Mend His Soul: A Historical Western Romance Book (Love and Valor on the Frontier)

For as long as she can remember, Suzannah Murphy’s family has been moving around the country, never settling down. All that changes when she finds out that her parents plan to make the Reed ranch their permanent home, and promise her hand to the owner’s son. Although Suzannah dreams of starting a family, she won’t abide by an arranged marriage, especially when her betrothed is the most reserved and distant person she has ever met. Yet, as she breaks down the walls surrounding his heart, and his kindness unfolds, she will soon find out the true reason he has been acting so strangely. Utterly unprepared for the challenges that are about to follow, will she manage to stand by his side without risking her own fate?

For almost ten years, Jasper Reed has been blaming himself for the terrible accident that changed his father’s life forever. Immersed in remorse, he devotes himself completely to saving the family ranch from insolvency. When all his efforts fail though, a trust-fund stashed away by a wealthy relative seems to be the only way out. However, there’s a catch… he must get married before his impending twenty-seventh birthday in order to receive the money. Feeling the burden of his duty and needing to act quickly, he is surprised to find himself struck by the unique beauty of the new ranch worker’s daughter. Could she be the answer to his prayers or will life remind him once again that he is cursed to lose everything he cares about?

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Lastly, another author I’ve read once, a few years ago by the looks of it. The first few paragraphs appear promising on this one too so I’m gong to give it a chance to impress me.

The Sparkle in Her Eyes: A Historical Western Romance Book (Love and Valor on the Frontier)

Laura Cabot is facing a dilemma. While trying to decide if she really wants to marry Zachary Bell, she begins to notice disturbing changes that don’t bode well for a future union. As if that wasn’t enough, she ends up entangled in his sudden disappearance… Still, Laura is used to challenges. She quickly begins to help out Detective Blackwell, a fascinating man who impresses her with his determination to solve the case. Until she becomes the main suspect…

Detective Jensen Blackwell finds the little town of Cottage Grove and its residents intriguing, none more so than Laura Cabot. As soon as the captivating journalist offers to assist him, he feels an immediate connection he simply can’t resist. Yet he knows he must focus on solving this troubling case, no matter where it may lead… Caught in a web of scandal and confusion, a familiar face reappears and suddenly everything Jensen thought he knew is thrown into question…

Well, this isn’t a stellar collection of books I don’t think but they should be worth the effort to read them. They could surprise us too, we just never know.

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Oops, I just noticed book 6, next in line in a series I’ve been reading. Can’t remember much about the series but it’s on sale so I can’t pass it up.

All Things Together (Acts of Valor, Book 6): Romantic Suspense

In this last installment of the Acts of Valor Series, Emma Stuart’s world is turned upside down when her three beloved sons are abducted right before her eyes. With the police more focused on framing Emma than on finding her boys, she turns to the one man she’s been trying to resist—her landlord.

Navy SEAL sniper, Ben Harmony considers himself “Mr. Fix-it” for a reason. Loath to let his favorite tenant and single mother suffer any more than she already has, Ben decides they should track down Emma’s boys themselves. While they’re at it, Ben will prove to Emma that her heart is safe with him, despite his reputation as a lady’s man.

In their quest to track down Emma’s ex, the couple encounters a secret society so powerful, not even a Navy SEAL can bring it down. Indeed, it’s the society that seeks to bring Ben down. With Mr. Fix-it possibly dead and her boys still missing, Emma has to wonder: How, exactly, is God working all things together for her good?

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It has been a pleasure to hang out with you and search for new books. Life has finally settled down a bit so maybe I can get back to posting again. A little more often, anyway.

Like me, I hope you are enjoying happy reading too.

Mystery this time, March 13, 2024

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Good news. Another interesting read showed up today. Fun fact: this makes 33 downloads for this author. I’m pleased about that.

A Silent Fury (High Stakes)

When a deaf school is targeted by a killer, an FBI agent must trust her skills, her faith—and her ex—to solve the case in this inspiring romantic thriller.

A double tragedy has gripped the South Carolina community at Palmetto Deaf School. With one student murdered and another missing, it’s up to homicide detective Catelyn Clark to find the killer—and probable kidnapper—before it’s too late. She’s willing to go to any length to get the job done . . . even work with her ex-boyfriend, FBI agent Joseph Santino.

Even as they share a case, Catelyn plans on keeping her distance. She knows from her parents that relationships between cops never work. They also taught her that the only person she can rely on is herself. But when the killer starts targeting Catelyn, it’s only by opening her heart to faith—and love—that she can finally bring the silent fury to an end.

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It’s been a good day March 02, 2024

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4 new books! It’s a good day and I love it.

The first one up, a suggestion from BookBub, is an author we’ve enjoyed more than once.

The Baby Rescue (Witness Protection Book 2)

Paired with a beautiful agent to rescue a child in danger, an FBI agent puts everything on the line in this romantic suspense novel.

To rescue an abducted infant from a baby-smuggling ring, US marshal Colton Phillips has to work with FBI agent Lisette Sutton. But their tactics couldn’t be more different. The too-pretty agent goes by the book, whereas Colton breaks rules to get the job done.

Colton vows to keep his heart out of the job, but as the tension escalates, he lowers his guard. Now Lisette—and an innocent child—are in grave danger, and Colton will stop at nothing to save them.

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This next two are also from a regularly enjoyed author. Stumbled across these in my search.

Low Country Hero: A Clean & Wholesome Romance (The Safe Haven Novels Book 1) 

A single mother starts fresh in smalltown South Carolina, helping a rugged contractor renovate homes in this clean & wholesome romance series launch.

Sunny, carefree days splashing in the ocean—it’s the life Anna George has always wanted for her five-year-old twins. And now that they’ve made it to Safe Haven, South Carolina, she won’t let anyone stand in her way. Not the abusive ex she’s just escaped and not the rugged contractor who caught her setting up house in the shuttered beachfront cabins he’s refurbishing. When he offers Anna and her daughters a place to stay in exchange for her help with renovations, she’s tempted. His gentle way with her girls makes her want to trust him, but she’s been wrong before . . .

A family is the last thing contractor and former military man Sean O’Dwyer wants right now. But when he discovers Anna and her girls, he recognizes kindred spirits. They’re survivors who’ve seen the worst of people, just like he has, and he’ll do anything he can to help them. As he and Anna spend their days bringing the cottages back to life and their nights sharing kisses in the warm bayou breezes, Sean must choose between the life he always wanted and the family he can’t live without.

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Low Country Dreams (The Safe Haven Novels Book 2)

A cop and his ex team up to reunite a separated family in this clean & wholesome romance by the author of Low Country Hero.

Yasmin Tanner has devoted her life to making other people’s dreams come true. But between running Safe Haven’s women’s center and caring for her brother, the long days—and lonely nights—are catching up with her . . . until Officer Liam O’Dwyer knocks on her door. She had good reasons for breaking Liam’s heart all those years ago, but that hasn’t made sharing their small town any easier. She’s missed him—that’s painfully clear to her now. But that’s not the only secret she’s keeping from him . . .

Ever since Yasmin left, Liam has kept his head down and his chin up. But when a woman from Yasmin’s women’s center goes missing, leaving her teenage son alone, it hits home for Liam. He’ll do whatever it takes to reunite this family . . . even work closely with the one woman he can’t forget. Yet as late summer days turn into cozy autumn nights rekindling the past, Liam suspects Yasmin is hiding something. And where her loyalties fall could mean the difference between lost love and a second chance at forever.

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Another regularly enjoyed author I’m excited about.

Hidden Agenda (Love Inspired Suspense) 

To protect her family for a vicious killer, a nurse must learn to trust a man who considers her a suspect in this inspiring romantic suspense novel.

Trusting the wrong person had gotten his father killed. CIA agent Ed Carter isn’t about to repeat the mistake. Pulling a gun on nurse Bailey Williams may not have been the smartest idea, but Ed is investigating a murder—and the beautiful caretaker is his only suspect. Problem is, her vulnerable brown eyes claim innocence and set off his protective instincts.

The spark between them is undeniable, but Bailey could never trust her life—or her heart—to a man who thinks her guilty. Yet now the real killer has returned to threaten not just her but her family. Bailey must place her faith in the only man who can keep them from being silenced forever . . .

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It’s definitely been a good day.

Mystery Suspense – part two February 14, 2024

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I’m looking forward to these reads. The first two are part of a series I’ve started. Still need to read books 1 and 3 this time.

Hide and Seek (Family Reunions Book 1) 

To find her daughter, a skip tracer teams up with a private detective with his own personal mystery to solve in this uplifting romantic thriller.

Erica James has spent the past three years as a skip tracer, hunting down those who have disappeared, hoping to one day find her kidnapped daughter. Now she has a new suspect—Max Powell’s missing sister. Max, a private investigator, has found evidence that connects the two missing girls. Now he and Erica are searching for answers.

As they work together, Erica and Max discover an undeniable attraction. And the closer they get to the truth, the stronger their feelings become. But the kidnapper will stop at nothing—including murder—to keep them from finding Erica’s daughter.

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The title has me hooked, trying to visualize what that past could look like.

Her Stolen Past (Family Reunions Book 3) 

Uncovering her family’s connection to a kidnapped baby leads a young woman into deadly peril in this inspiring romantic suspense series finale.

Sorting through her late mother’s home, Sonya Daniels expected to find loose ends and even a few surprises—but nothing prepared her for the shock of uncovering the birth certificate of a kidnapped baby. What was her family’s connection to the child, still missing for over two decades? And what happened to the little girl?

Sonya hires detective Brandon Hayes to help her get to the truth. But someone doesn’t want the truth to come out and will stop at nothing to keep them from investigating. Sonya knows the guarded cop won’t rest until he unravels the mystery—but the answers could be more than she can bear alone.

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Framed in Death Valley (Desert Justice Book 1) 

A killer who will stop at nothing…

Framed for a murder he didn’t commit, firefighter Beckett Duke gave up on everything—including his marriage to spirited Laney Holland. That is, until Laney’s life is threatened. Knowing the real killer is still at large, Beckett now has one purpose: protecting the woman he loves…and their unborn child. But sometimes an innocent man’s second chance comes with a deadly price.

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Danger at the Border (Northern Border Patrol Book 1)

A biologist and border agent team up to save lives—but now their own lives are at risk—in a novel by the national bestselling RITA and Carol Award finalist.

When a mysterious toxin threatens lives and livelihoods near the border between the US and Canada, Dr. Tessa Cleary is called to trace the source. But when the no-nonsense doctor is forced to work with border patrol agent Jeff Steele, she finds the lone wolf’s dedication to his job—and country—chipping away at the walls around her heart.

Just as Tessa and Jeff are about to uncover the toxin’s deadly source, armed thugs kidnap them in the forest. Now they must trust each other to survive before time runs out for everyone.

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This is the end of the mystery selection presenting itself today. All four are stand alone stories so they safe to read out of order.

It’s been a fun day.

There are a few more to download and they will be shared tomorrow.

Mostly romance February 14, 2024

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It has been awhile since I’ve been excited about a new book. I’m happy to be excited today. We have not one, or two, but a whole bunch of new choices from authors we have loved in the past.

Well, most of them are from the past but this first one is new to me and I’m looking forward to seeing what she is all about. This cover promises intense emotions and I think that’s what grabbed my attention. This will be the only one with a theme like this. The rest will be a mix with romance of some genre or a mystery/thriller with a little romance thrown in. Mystery is my favorite genre it seems.

Let’s get started, this could take a while.

Tomorrow Isn’t Promised

Who would choose to love a girl with no promise of a “happily ever after”?

Nathan isn’t sure choice has anything to do with it. When God calls, you answer. Even when that means taking a risk that might just leave you with a broken heart.

For Cherish, the future doesn’t look so tangible. Misty dreams of deeper fulfillment swirl in her heart—and of course, the longing for someone all her own.

When a shattering diagnosis tears her world apart forever, an equally unexpected love brings questions she never thought she’d face. Is it fair to accept his offer while death looms ahead? Can faith—and love—find meaning in tragedy? And does God really care about the stories that end in ashes?

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I prefer clean stories and this looks like it might deliver.

The Magnolia Island Series Boxset: A Christian Romance Collection

Amidst the tranquil shores of a secluded island, where faith meets mystery, a decade-old disappearance sets the stage for love, redemption, and the unearthing of secrets that will forever change the lives of those who call this island home. Welcome to Magnolia Island, where the past holds the key to the future.

Oceans of Mercy – A friends-to-lovers romance

Knox has been a strong and steady presence in Allie’s life for as long as she can remember, their friendship spanning the test of time and multiple tragedies for them both. Still, as Allie begins to grow as a person and in her faith, she realizes she’s let those around her fight her battles for her for far too long. It’s time for her to step up and stand up for herself, but old habits die hard for Knox who has been her protector since childhood. Just as Allie and Knox navigate the growing pains of their changing friendship and feelings for one another, a routine dive reopens a long closed missing person case that has deeply personal ties to Allie’s family. At the same time, an unexpected career opportunity for Allie thrusts her into the spotlight and stretches their friendship to the point where they must either bend or break.

Flames of Faith – A second-chance romance

Rob and Lexi’s relationship burned with the feelings they had for one another, but their explosive ending aided by the failure to reckon with their own pasts nearly broke them both. Now, Lexi’s back in Magnolia Island for the foreseeable future and comes face to face with a precocious little girl with her daddy’s eyes. She doesn’t know what to think, but their hearts pull them together the same way they did in college. Can time really heal all wounds, or are there some loves you just never get over?Growing Hope – An enemies-to-lovers romance
When Rockford Properties acquires a private nature preserve on Magnolia Island, their plans to build a resort infuriate environmentalist Sage. But, as she and Bryan lock horns in the fight of their lives, they uncover a piece to the Charlie Edwards cold case puzzle that no one expected.

Fighting for Truth – A fake relationship romance
Never in a million years would these two have thought they’d find themselves pretending to be a couple, but diving deep into the Charlie Edwards cold case necessitates it. Not to mention, Gwyn’s got some complications of her own knocking from her past, and Levi just might be the answer she’s been looking for. As the two form an unlikely alliance to solve the case, they find themselves falling for each other in the plot twist neither saw coming. Still, it all may end in tragedy when the truth is worse than either could’ve imagined.

Melody of the Heart – A second-chance romance
When Charlotte (Charlie) Edwards returns to Magnolia Island to help bring Randall Cromwell to justice, she comes face to face with her past in ways she never expected. Aiden isn’t the man she left behind, and his faith lay in broken pieces at their feet. Refusing to run again, her job at the bakery and life on the island keeps Charlie busy until it all comes to a head in one satisfying series finale.

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I’m excited about this one. We’ve read book one in the series so it’s nice to see book two.

In the Shelter of Hollythorne House (The Houses of Yorkshire Series Book 2)

A young widow faces an uncertain future . . . until an unexpected encounter with her first love gives her heart a second chance in this Regency romance set on the Yorkshire Moors.

England, 1817—Charlotte Grey thought she had seen the last of Anthony Welbourne. Knowing her father would never consent to his only daughter marrying a man he deemed beneath their family’s station, Charlotte bid her final farewell to Anthony and vowed never to turn back. Instead, she honored her father’s wishes by marrying the wealthy Roland Prior.

Determined to put his love for Charlotte in the past, Anthony chose to immerse himself in a life full of meaning—first as a soldier fighting a war overseas, then as a member of William Walstead’s watchmen, a rugged band of men dispatched to deal with perilous situations. Fearless and persistent, he makes it his life’s focus to fight for those who can’t fight for themselves.

When Charlotte’s husband dies unexpectedly, she quickly realizes how blind she’d been to his nefarious ambitions and how many people he’d angered on his relentless quest for wealth. To protect her infant son, Henry, from those who wish him harm, she and the baby flee to Hollythorne House, her childhood home. There Charlotte comes face-to-face with her former love, who has been sent as one of the hired watchman to protect her and Henry until the details of her late husband’s estate are settled.

Anthony’s presence brings back feelings she never expected to have again, and she struggles to trust his intentions. Are the watchmen really looking after Charlotte as they claim—or are they looking to make trouble for Roland’s estate and heir? Despite the constant reminders of their past, Anthony must remain focused on the task he was hired to do. But when new threats emerge and the past collides with the present, both must decide what they are willing to risk for the chance to right old wrongs and carve out a new future . . . together.

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Change in plans. This has gotten away from me. Look at the length. More added to this will be too much. Part two will be coming out shortly with mysteries.

Cleaning out the read pile January 13, 2024

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Wow! I don’t even remember reading this many books since the last post like this. I know I hurried through a few of them just so I could move on to something else. There were a few I loved, hopefully they will stand out to me but the chances aren’t great. Too many other distractions this week.

I’m just going to go ahead and show them as a bunch. Probably newest to oldest. I’ve been searching through older ones in the pile looking for interesting reads I may have missed. Things have probably been messed up a little in that whole process.

One thing I know for sure: I remove and don’t mention any books I truly do not like, so we are safe. For sure, I at least liked everything here.

Let’s go.

I know for sure I enjoyed this next three book collection. actually, I think I enjoyed all three of these collections.

Anne Perry has been one of my top favorite authors for a very long time. All three of these books were excellent, actually. And the next three too.

This next bunch are foggy in my memory but they are marked as read. I can tell they are all books that I know I would enjoy.

It appears to be almost a month since the last clearing out, so I guess that explains a whole lot. I can see that most of these authors are repeat guests on my shelves so I can recommend all of them with confidence.

For a current read, there are two I’m trying to decide between. I know I will be reading them both eventually, it’s just a matter of what-do-I-feel-like at this moment. They are both suspense with favorite authors but they each have their own unique flavor and I’m hoping the second one will be more appealing.

I’m kind of disliking the possible bad guy in the first one. Plus the heroine keeps putting herself in danger and it irritates me some days when people insist on doing that. Especially this early in the story. I guess the title should give me a clue to expect bad behavior. Can you tell by the outfit she is not even a detective but an actress in the middle of making a movie. I do like her otherwise though.

I’ll let you know how it goes.