Above the Circle of the Earth by E Stephen Burnett Blog Tour Book Review

About the Book

Book: Above the Circle of Earth

Author: E. Stephen Burnett

Genre: Science Fiction

Release date: March 4, 2025

The fight for the space mission begins in his homeworld.

Brock Rivers never wanted to be a repairman on Mars. Years ago, he failed to protect his family, and now he labors across a frontier planet to keep his children alive and escape CAUSE. But the spacefaring humanist regime is taking over Martian colonies, forcing all to join the secular state.

Back in Brock’s homeworld, his people summon him to fulfill old hopes with a new dream. After decades of cultural isolation, they plan to restore missions for the 22nd century, voyaging beyond Earth to share the gospel in space. Brock must find a ship and recruit a team of misfit believers. They expect opposition from the formidable CAUSE, but not from a more deceptive enemy.

One adversary attacks from the shadows to destroy the faithful. Others unify to oppose the project. Brock and his family must fight to resist these enemies of the space mission or else return to exile forever.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

This is an entertaining science fiction novel but also a very thought provoking one. Its dystopian view of the future shows an era where Christians (and other religions) have been geographically confined to particular areas. That reminded me of how we might think of our church building and campus as a safe place with the rest of the world “out there.” It is an era when the missionary concept has been lost. That again may be how we see our own church. Brock has a plan for a mission but some oppose his vision. Is there opposition to new mission ideas in our own churches?

There are many additional issues this novel made me think about. Do we dare go out of our comfort zones to share the gospel with others? What are we willing to do to when it might mean we risk persecution? How does one know for sure when called to a particular mission? How do those outside of the church view Christians? Those are only a few of the discussion ideas generated in this novel.

It's a good science fiction novel with lots of technological devices and unique ways of travel. Some of the item names and uses might have been a bit beyond my understanding! There are good references to possible social and spiritual struggles in the future. It is a good science fiction novel that will entertain you but also make you think.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

About the Author

E. Stephen Burnett creates sci-fi novels as well as nonfiction, exploring fantastical stories for God’s glory as publisher of Lorehaven.com and its weekly Fantastical Truth podcast. He is coauthor of The Pop Culture Parent and other resources for fans and families. Stephen and his wife, Lacy, live in the Austin area and serve in their local church.

 

More from E. Stephen

Today’s earthly life seemed especially rough.

My day job had issues. A family member is facing worse challenges. Home-repair projects are piling up. Oh, plus our two dogs stormed out of the house and, for no discernable reason, attacked the neighbor’s pet (zero injuries reported, so far).

It’s not all bad. As I write, my wife and I aren’t sick. Times of rest are coming soon. We have good work and freedom to worship Jesus. We enjoy shelter and supplies.

Also—we’re not forced into exile on Mars because of secular persecution on Earth.

That last is the scenario of my debut sci-fi novel Above the Circle of Earth. Its creation began with an “original” teenage thought like, “Hey, what if someone made a sci-fi adventure, only with Christian characters?” That grew into a complex futuristic world of fantastic space exploration, but also mixed results for believers in Christ.

ACE isn’t all dystopia. You can still enjoy freedom to practice your faith on Earth. But you need to stay in your religious preserve. If you try to live like a Christian outside that homeworld, the spacefaring humanist regime CAUSE won’t appreciate that.

That’s how Brock and Alicia Rivers ended up fighting to survive on Mars, laboring in the settlements and raising their three children in a dry and weary, waterless land.

Then comes their call to adventure. This is not just a mission, but the Space Mission, the first restored missionary outreach in fifty years. They’ll have to return to Earth and face the death of a loved one, intimidation by the secular CAUSE, and many challenges and greater threats from their own Christian brothers and sisters—all forming a fantastical adventure about how we long to defend our homeworlds.

I started my first version of ACE decades ago. But to tackle big themes like this, I now realize I needed more experience to understand these kinds of struggles. Of course, I’ve never had to diagnose a leaking dome on another planet or resist a technocratic humanist regime. But I have felt the pain of lost job opportunities, grief after the loss of a parent, and the futility of researching odd subjects (from biblical theology to Martian calendars!) that seemed to lead nowhere.

Well, plot twist: All those hard times made this science fiction more realistic. You can’t build spaceships or stories without those struggles. Otherwise the tale ends up bad—inauthentic and corny, with simplistic morals and shallow heroes. Ugh. Few readers want that. And the few who do will barely remember such a book.

Maybe that’s one reason our Author allows the real-world challenges. He’s not just making us holy and more like Jesus Christ. He’s making us to be more human, well-rounded heroes with dimension and realism, for His glory and our good.

Here’s hoping Above the Circle of Earth launches a different kind of Christian-made science fiction, helping us see all hard times in light of our Author’s amazing future.

Godspeed and #GoTherefore!

 Stephen Burnett

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 25

Novel Notions, March 25

Guild Master, March 26 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 26 (Spotlight)

A Reader’s Brain, March 27 (Author Interview)

Stories By Gina, March 28 (Spotlight)

Texas Book-aholic, March 29

The Lofty Pages, March 30

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 31 (Author Interview)

Lily’s Corner, April 1

Fiction Book Lover, April 2 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 3

Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 4 (Spotlight)

Blogging With Carol, April 5

Simple Harvest Reads, April 6 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 7

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, E. Stephen is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and a hardcover copy of the book!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54184

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review. The rest of the copy of this post was provided by Celebrate Lit.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)

The Human Scale by Lawrence Wright Book Review

About the Book:

Tony Malik, a half-Irish, half-Arab FBI agent based in New York, specializes in tracking money from drug and arms deals. His life takes a dramatic turn when a long-term relationship ends and his job hangs in the balance. Amid personal turmoil, Malik becomes intrigued by his Palestinian father's past. He decides to visit his ancestral homeland for his niece's wedding, accepting a seemingly simple FBI assignment along the way.

Upon arrival in the West Bank, Malik's world is upended when the Israeli police chief is murdered. Initially a suspect, Malik's investigative prowess soon earns him a place in the Israeli investigation. At the heart of the story is Malik's complex relationship with Yossi, the hardline anti-Arab Israeli police officer leading the case. They must learn to trust each other because, as they move closer to solving the case, they realize there is no one else they can trust on either side.

Lawrence Wright populates the novel with richly drawn characters: Yossi's daughter studying in Paris, Malik's niece whose wedding is shattered by violence, her peacenik fiancé with ties to Hamas, and a cast of religious leaders, corrupt cops, and militants on both sides. Through these intersecting lives, Wright weaves an intricate tapestry that culminates in the devastating Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

More than a thriller, Wright's novel explores the complex history between Israel and Palestine, revealing the tragic human scale of this long-standing conflict and offering a nuanced perspective on a tragedy that continues to shape the region and the world.

My Review:

This novel got off to a slow start for me. I was expecting a thriller but I feel it is more of a book concentrating on the history and current relationships of the Israel Palestine complex. The plot often slowed with additional background information provided. For someone who has not paid attention to the area, this might be an enlightening book. Wright does a good job of building the characters so we understand the intense feelings and relationships. While there is a murder, it seems to be a means to an end, getting characters together who would not otherwise do so. This is a novel for readers looking to gain understanding of the situation in that part of the Middle East before the latest escalation of deadly action. It is not a novel for those looking for an engaging thriller.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

About the Author:

Lawrence Wright is a staff writer for The New Yorker, a playwright, a screenwriter, and the author of ten books of nonfiction, including The Looming Tower, Going Clear, and God Save Texas, and one previous novel, God’s Favorite. His books have received many honors, including a Pulitzer Prize for The Looming Tower. He and his wife are longtime residents of Austin, Texas. Photo: © Kenny Braun

Knopf, 448 pages.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)

Break My Fall by Lynn H Blackburn Blog Tour Book Review

 

BREAK MY FALL

by Lynn H. Blackburn

March 17 - 28, 2025 Virtual Book Tour

Synopsis:

Gossamer Falls

 

She’s determined to make an impact in her community.
He’s determined to make sure she lives long enough to do it.

Dr. Meredith Quinn always planned to return to Gossamer Falls to practice dentistry. Now that she’s back home, she’s made it a point to offer clinics to children and adults in nearby underserved areas. Unfortunately, those same areas are known to harbor drug traffickers, and Police Chief Grayson Ward suspects that local law enforcement is looking the other way.

After too many losses, Grayson has closed off his heart. But with Meredith in his life, he feels his walls crumbling, leaving him exposed and vulnerable. To keep her alive, he must keep her close, but that makes it impossible for him to retreat and rebuild.

Will she be the one who finally helps him emerge from isolation? Or will this force of nature leave him shattered?

Praise for Never Fall Again:

"The start to Blackburn’s new Gossamer Falls inspirational thriller series is an exciting story of difficult truths and second chances."
~ Booklist

"Romance, danger, and deadly crime-fighting scenes make this a perfect read."
~ The AR Critique

My Review:

This inspirational romantic suspense has an emphasis on the rocky road to romance. Both Meredith and Gray have put up walls to potential romantic relationships and the results are some hurts that seem almost too difficult to overcome. Meredith is part of a tight knit family, very loyal to each other. Family dynamics and Meredith's relationships to her siblings are a large part of the plot, as is the troubled potential romance. Characters are well developed, including her siblings.

There is the threat of harm from the next county over but that, as well as the mystery involved, take a back seat in the plot to relationship issues. There is some quick and intense suspense near the end of the novel, however. There is a good contrast between Meredith's desire to give to the community as opposed to the evil happening in the next county. There is also a good faith message included.

This is a novel for readers who like an emphasis on family relationships and romance over consistent investigative procedure or suspense. Blackburn's writing style is easy to read, making this novel a rewarding one.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

You can read my review of the first book in this series, Never Fall Again.

Book Details:

Genre: Christian Fiction/Romantic Suspense
Published by: Revell
Publication Date: March 18, 2025
Number of Pages: 352
ISBN: 9780800745370
Series: Gossamer Falls, Book 2
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | ChristianBook | Goodreads | Baker Book House

Read an excerpt from Break My Fall:

 

Author Bio:

Lynn H. Blackburn is the award-winning author of Never Fall Again, as well as the Dive Team Investigations and Defend and Protect series. She loves writing swoon-worthy Southern suspense because her childhood fantasy was to become a spy, but her grown-up reality is that she’s a huge chicken and would have been caught on her first mission. She prefers to live vicariously through her characters by putting them into terrifying situations while she sits at home in her pajamas. She lives in Simpsonville, South Carolina, with her true love, Brian, and their three children.

Learn more at:

LynnHBlackburn.com
Amazon Author Profile
Goodreads - @lynnhugginsblackburn
BookBub - @LynnHBlackburn
Instagram - @LynnHBlackburn
X - @LynnHBlackburn
Facebook - @LynnHBlackburn

Subscribe to Lynn's Newsletter

 

Tour Participants:

Visit these other great hosts on this tour for more great reviews and opportunities to WIN in the giveaway!

---

1. 03/17 leannebookstagram BREAK MY FALL Review

2. 03/18 Country Mamas With Kids BREAK MY FALL Review

3. 03/19 Cozy Home Delight Book Reviews BREAK MY FALL Review

4. 03/20 dianas_books_cars_coffee BREAK MY FALL Review

5. 03/21 Inkwell Inspirations BREAK MY FALL Review

6. 03/23 Book Reviews From an Avid Reader BREAK MY FALL Review

7. 03/24 The AR Critique BREAK MY FALL Review

8. 03/25 Melissa’s Bookshelf BREAK MY FALL Review

9. 03/27 A Room without Books is Empty BREAK MY FALL Review

Note: this is a private list. Only the list owner can enter links.

Linky Tools  |  Linky Blog 2013

Click here to view the Tour Schedule

 

ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN:

This is a giveaway hosted by Partners in Crime Tours for Lynn H. Blackburn & Revell. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited.

Can't see the giveaway? Click Here!

 

Get More Great Reads at Partners In Crime Tours

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review. The rest of the copy of this post was provided by Partners in Crime Book Tours.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.) 

Intentional Fires by Rebecca McLafferty Blog Tour Book Review

About the Book

Book: Intentional Fires (Book Two in the Sunrise Crik Series)

Author: Rebecca McLafferty

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Release date: June 10, 2024

A widowed Christmas tree farm owner and her fiancé, a forest service special agent, deal with fires, thefts, and a 90-year family feud—stretching them to the snapping point.

After experiencing an attack, theft, and arson on the family Christmas tree farm, newly engaged Toni Stevens searches for those responsible, including disputed historic records. With two boys and a mother to support, the pressure is on her to increase profitability of the tree farm. Who is trying to ruin her? Can she put a stop to the generational feud?

Toni’s fiancé, U.S. Forest Service Special Agent Sam Duncan is hunting down a potential arsonist turned murderer. His rugged paths uncover Montana drug runners, feudal secrets—and a host of emotions that were buried alive.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

I liked this mystery revolving around a tree farm. It is an unusual yet informative setting. I like the character combination, Toni, owner of the tree farm, engaged to Sam, a forest service agent. We readers get a double dose of learning about tree and forest management. Toni must deal with vandalism and the theft of hardwood trees while Sam deals with rogue individuals growing marijuana on forest land. McLafferty includes another layer of plot depth by adding a multi-generational feud and confusing land ownership.

I was puzzled by the lack of knowledge regarding construction near the tree farm. An inquiry at the appropriate county department should have revealed the construction permit required to be filed there. I was also surprised that Sam, as a forest service agent, did not know nor could find information about what construction was going on in the forest he oversaw.

This is the second novel in a series and several of the characters here are from the earlier novel. While it can be read on its own, as I did, full appreciation for this novel and better understanding of character actions will require reading the earlier one first. There is a good faith message included as well as a good exploration of healing relationships.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

 

About the Author

Wisconsin resident Rebecca McLafferty began her writing career by co-creating a writers’ group and hosting writing conferences on her alpaca farm. Married for 51 years, mother of two, grandmother to five, and an Aussiedoodle mom, Rebecca cherishes writing, reading, and fellowshipping. Author of Intentional Fires, Intentional Heirs, and Devotions for Country Living: Prayer-Enriched Fields, she loves getting to know readers

 

More from Rebecca

There is a saying, “Home is where the heart is.” Rebecca McLafferty totally agrees!

Rebecca is the author of the Sunrise Crik Series, which consists of action-packed romantic suspense novels set in current-day Montana. She and her husband have vacationed and explored the Livingston to Bozeman area where this series takes place. The town of Woodridge is fictious, but a number of area establishments mentioned within her stories are real.

The phrase “The Big Sky” was coined by Pulitzer Prize-winning author A.B. Guthrie in his 1947 novel of that name. In addition to the obvious vision of unobstructed sky, Big Sky Country—to Rebecca—represents big dreams and big faith. It symbolizes the backbone of Montana!

Are you wondering how Rebecca can authentically write about growing Christmas trees? It’s because she and her husband owned Country Memories Farm in Wisconsin where they raised alpacas, and planted and grew Christmas trees! She also operated Country Memories Mercantile (now downsized to an online store). Their love of educating others evolved into an operation that hosted school, family, and community events. That’s why she loves to interact personally with people from all walks of life!

And are you wondering how Rebecca knows about police department operations—even drug smugglers? She worked for a tourist-town’s police department—a fascinating place to get ideas!

Rebecca admits to having worked dozens of unusual jobs (great discussion material for another time). She wondered why she experienced such diverse occupations before God revealed to her that she needed authenticity for her novel writing. What she hasn’t experienced herself, she has visited or thoroughly researched.

The title, Intentional Fires implies forest fires. That’s obvious. But there are other types of fires that burn intentionally. Internal fires can sustain a 90-year feud and lifetimes of unforgiveness, resentment, and broken dreams. Do you suffer from an internal fire?

• Whether you live in Montana or dream of visiting the west . . .
• Whether you have an entrepreneurial spirit that wants you to succeed . . .
• Whether you want to fall in love, rekindle your faith, or root for an underdog . . .

Come and experience the heartfelt struggles that Montanans fight with all their might to protect.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 22

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 23

Stories By Gina, March 24 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 24

Blossoms and Blessings, March 25 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, March 26

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, March 27 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 28

A Reader’s Brain, March 29 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 30

Guild Master, March 31

For Him and My Family, April 1

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, April 2 (Author Interview)

Pause for Tales, April 2

Holly’s Book Corner, April 3

Vicky Sluiter, April 4 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

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

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54181

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review. The rest of the copy of this post was provided by Celebrate Lit.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)

Shattered Sight by Liz Milliron Blog Tour Book Review

 

SHATTERED SIGHT

by Liz Milliron

March 10 - April 4, 2025 Virtual Book Tour

Synopsis:

The Jackson Davis Mysteries

 

Niagara Falls Police Detective Jackson Davis is living a lie.

He has the perfect life: married, two children, a home, a promising career.

Underneath, however, he battles self-doubt and guilt over the incident that cost his partner her sight and her career in an explosion during the pursuit of a suspect. He denies having PTSD or any trauma related to the event, but those around him know better.

When Jackson returns to active duty and is tapped to lead the investigation into the death of a prominent local business woman, all of this comes to the forefront. He must learn to work with a new partner and deal with his personal demons if he is to catch the killer — or he risks losing it all.

My Review:

This is a good murder mystery that focuses on the struggles of the lead investigator. He is recently back to active duty after being at a desk for six months after surviving an event that blinded his partner. I found his character hard to like. Granted, he had a devastating experience. He has had some counseling but he seemed to be not handling his current experiences well at all. He seemed to have a very large chip on his shoulder. He experienced PTSD and we learn some about the therapy he goes through. He can only blame himself as he admits he is his own worst enemy. Rather than a balance of investigating and personal life, this novel has much more on the personal aspect. This book would be appreciated by readers who like more about the personal struggle and transformation of the lead character than investigative movement on the plot. The setting of Niagara Falls is interesting with good descriptions of the locale, including buildings and parks.

I am always interested when an author writes a main character opposite their own gender. Perhaps the male character written here by a female author accounts for a greater emphasis on his emotions and thoughts. This novel is for readers who like an emphasis on the lead character's struggle and growth rather than investigative procedure.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Book Details:

Genre: Police Procedural
Published by: Harbor Lane Books
Publication Date: March 2025
Number of Pages: 402
ISBN: 978-1-963705-05-8
Series: The Jackson Davis Mysteries, book #1
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Read an excerpt:

Chapter 1

I stood in front of my open closet and shuffled through my tie selection. “Amy, have you seen my red tie?” I called to my wife.

No answer.

“Amy!”

She came into the bedroom, dark brown hair in a messy knot, stray strands stuck to her face. She held our six-month-old son, Christopher, over her shoulder as she rubbed his back. “What are you yelling for?” She glanced at the jacket on the bed. “I thought you only wore that suit to court.”

“I need to look sharp today, which means I need my lucky red tie.” I went over the ones on the rack for the third time. “The one with the dark gray pinstripes. It should be here.”

“For crying out loud. Let me.” She held Christopher out, forcing me to take him.

Before I could turn him around, he burped, a wad of spit landing on my chest. “Grab me a clean shirt, too.” I didn’t have time for this. “I need to make a positive impression today.”

“Jackson, you’re coming off desk duty. Not starting a new job.”

“All the more reason to look good. I need to remind the guys I’m an investigator, not a glorified secretary.”

Whatever Amy said was lost in the rattle of hangers. “Here.” She held out the tie. “It was with your other court suit, still in the bag.” She tossed it, along with a clean shirt, on the bed.

I handed back our son. “You’re an angel.” I leaned over and kissed her. Even wearing an old T-shirt and jeans, she put any supermodel to shame. At least in my mind. If I hadn’t been determined to be early, I would have demonstrated my gratitude with a little more emphasis.

“Yeah, yeah. Don’t you forget it.” She disengaged Christopher’s hand from her hair.

I slipped into the shirt, buttoned it, and swiftly knotted the tie. Then I shrugged into my jacket. I held out my arms. “Well, how do I look?”

She smoothed my lapel. “Like one of Niagara Falls Police Department’s finest homicide detectives, which you are.” Her voice was light, but I caught the worried glint in her beautiful deep blue eyes.

“It’s going to be okay, Amy. I’m ready to get back to work.”

“I know.” She kissed me. “Go get ’em, tiger.”

I arrived at HQ and waved to the desk sergeant.

“Detective Davis, you going to testify today?” he asked.

“Nope. I’m back in the rotation, Herb.”

He smiled. “It’s about time.”

I took the elevator up to the floor where the Criminal Investigation Division was located and went to my desk. As always, I avoided looking at the empty one facing mine. I briefly wondered how long that would last.

Hopefully for a while.

From across the room, a voice said, “Davis. You’re here.”

I looked up to see Captain Yannick striding toward me. Trailing him was an unfamiliar Black man. He was in his mid-thirties, close-cut hair, nice suit. Really nice suit. He held the largest-sized cup of coffee Starbucks sold in one hand and a cardboard box under the opposite arm.

I focused on the captain. “Morning, sir. You get the paperwork?”

“I did.” The captain shook my hand. “I’m glad to have one of my ace investigators back in the rotation. I want you to meet Rodney Kirke. He’s a new detective for homicide. This is his first day.”

I nodded. “Welcome to the looney bin. I’d shake your hand, but looks like they’re full.”

He put the box and Starbucks on Max’s empty desk. “Captain Yannick told me all about you.”

“Only the good stuff, I hope.” I refrained from saying anything about his stuff on that desk. “Who’d you get partnered up with?”

Yannick pointed. “You. Meet your new partner.”

What the actual? I forced myself to remain calm. “Oh. You didn’t mention anything on Friday before we left.”

“And I apologize. I meant to and the day got away from me.”

I glanced at Rodney. “Captain, can I talk to you?”

“What about?”

“Nothing major. A few details and then I can get to work.” Like how he’d forgotten to say he’d assigned me a new partner.

“Unpack your things.” Yannick pointed to the new guy. He nodded toward me. “My office.”

Once inside, I closed the door. “Sir, what the hell? A new partner on day one?”

“I understand you feel blindsided. I should have called over the weekend. Mea culpa.” His expression told me he’d expected this response. “You had to know this was coming, though.”

I did. But the speed unsettled me. “I guess I expected more notice. Not to walk in on Monday and be introduced to the new guy without even a hint of noticed. And I didn’t realize Max was so easily replaced. I thought you’d take more time.”

Yannick’s gaze and voice held sympathy, but firmness at the same time. “Her position has been open for six months. Kirke’s recently passed the detective exam. You’ll work well together. You can show him the ropes.” He leaned back. “I spoke to Kirke’s commander from patrol, who said he’s top-notch. I think you’ll get on well together.”

Seeing the empty desk every day had been hard. Having a stranger occupy Max’s chair was worse.

Yannick seemed to read my mind. “Look, I can’t replace Max. Oh, sure. I can hire a new body. It won’t be the same. I know. But give him a chance. You learned a lot from Max and she’d expect you to step up and pass it on. Next call is yours.”

What a cheat. Problem was, he was right. She would expect it. “Yes, sir. I’ll do my best.”

***

I returned to the desks and assessed the man who Yannick thought could fill Max’s shoes. He’d unpacked the box and was arranging everything to his satisfaction. Strike one, he drank Starbucks. I couldn’t stand the import from Seattle, much preferring Tim Horton’s, the Western New York alternative. Max had not much cared about where the coffee came from, as long as it was hot and black.

Strike two. He’d put a fancy brass nameplate in front of him, with a leather blotter, and matching pen and pencil cup next to it. I hoped the attention to office supplies didn’t mean anything except excitement for the new shield. Max had never bothered to have more than a jumbo calendar and her ever-present book of Sudoku puzzles on her desk. “Looks like you’re all settled in.”

His hand jerked and the cup of pens toppled over. “Just about.” He straightened everything and looked around. Very few of the battered desks held anything as fancy as his desk set. “Guess I overdid it a little with the office supplies, huh?”

“How long have you had your shield?”

“Two weeks.”

That explained a lot. “I wouldn’t worry about it. It’s natural to be a little nervous, especially starting a new job like this.” I sat down. “Where’d you come from?”

“Downtown. Spent a lot of time chasing pickpockets away from tourists.” He unbuttoned his suit jacket and took his seat. “It’s not very often you meet a white guy named Jackson. No offense.”

It was what people said when they knew they’d been offensive. I could tell his clothes were new. The jacket and slacks were tailored and the tie shone like silk. “My mother was a horror fan and The Lottery was her all-time favorite short story. She loved it so much, she swore to name her first child after the author. I’m lucky I wasn’t a girl or I’d be called Shirley.”

He laughed, but stopped short. “I can’t tell if you’re joking or not.”

I held up my hand. “True story. My father tried to get the nickname Jack to stick, but it never did. I’ve gotten used to it.”

He shifted in his seat. “I, uh, heard about what happened to your old partner. Hope I can measure up. She sounds like she was quite the investigator.”

The words were a knife in my chest. “She was.” I had no intention of discussing Max with the new guy. “Why’d you become a detective?”

“It was time for a challenge. I also thought it would help in other areas.”

I waited, but he didn’t continue. “Such as?”

“What’s the scoop? Did Yannick give you an assignment when you talked to him or something?”

He has things he doesn’t want to discuss. We’re equal there. “Not yet.”

Yannick emerged from his office. “Davis, Kirke. Attempted bank robbery downtown. Get down there and take witness statements.”

I stood. “On it, sir.”

***

Excerpt from SHATTERED SIGHT by Liz Milliron. Copyright 2025 by Liz Milliron. Reproduced with permission from Liz Milliron. All rights reserved.

 

Author Bio:

Liz Milliron is the Shamus-nominated author of the Homefront Mysteries, set in Buffalo, NY during the early years of WWII, the Laurel Highlands Mysteries set in the scenic Laurel Highlands of southwest Pennsylvania, and the Jackson Davis Mysteries set in Niagara Falls, NY. Her short fiction has been published in multiple anthologies including Murder Most International, Blood on the Bayou, and Murder Most Historical. Liz is a past president of the Pittsburgh Chapter of Sisters in Crime and the current Secretary, as well as the Education Liaison for the National Board of Sisters in Crime. She is also a member of International Thriller Writers, Pennwriters and the Historical Novel Society. Liz lives in the Laurel Highlands with her husband and a very spoiled retired-racer greyhound.

Catch Up With Liz Milliron:
LizMilliron.com
Amazon Author Profile
Goodreads
BookBub - @mary1414
Instagram - @LizMilliron
Threads - @LizMilliron
Facebook - @LizMilliron

 

Tour Participants:

Visit these other great hosts on this tour for more great reviews, interviews, guest posts, and opportunities to WIN in the giveaway!

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1. 03/10 Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books! SHATTERED SIGHT Showcase

2. 03/11 Books R Us SHATTERED SIGHT Guest post

3. 03/11 Books, Ramblings, and Tea SHATTERED SIGHT Showcase

4. 03/12 Because I said so SHATTERED SIGHT Review

5. 03/13 darciahelle SHATTERED SIGHT Interview

6. 03/14 Celticladys Reviews SHATTERED SIGHT Showcase

7. 03/16 The Mystery of Writing SHATTERED SIGHT Showcase

8. 03/17 Novels Alive SHATTERED SIGHT Review

9. 03/17 Silvers Reviews SHATTERED SIGHT Showcase

10. 03/18 fuonlyknew SHATTERED SIGHT Showcase

11. 03/21 Book Reviews From an Avid Reader SHATTERED SIGHT Review

12. 03/24 Jodys Bookish Haven SHATTERED SIGHT Showcase

13. 03/28 Guatemala Paula Loves to Read SHATTERED SIGHT Review

14. 03/29 Ink. Readsalot SHATTERED SIGHT Showcase

15. 03/31 Catreader18 SHATTERED SIGHT Review

16. 04/02 dianas_books_cars_coffee SHATTERED SIGHT Review

17. 04/03 books_and_biewers SHATTERED SIGHT Review

18. 04/04 The AR Critique SHATTERED SIGHT Review

Note: this is a private list. Only the list owner can enter links.

Linky Tools  |  Linky Blog 2013

Click here to view the Tour Schedule

 

Don't Miss Your Chance to Win! Enter Today!

This is a giveaway hosted by Partners in Crime Tours for Liz Milliron. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited.

Can't see the giveaway? Click Here!

 

 

Get More Great Reads at Partners In Crime Tours

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review. The rest of the copy of this post was provided by Partners in Crime Book Tours.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.) 

Murder in the Appalachians by Susan Furlong Blog Tour Book Review

 

MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS

by Susan Furlong

March 17 - April 25, 2025 Virtual Book Tour

Synopsis:

On the run in the mountains…
with a killer on their trail.

After unearthing secrets from her late brother’s police notebook, journalist Emma Hayes discovers his death was no accident—he was murdered. Only someone doesn’t want Emma to find out the connection to the cold case her brother was investigating…and they’ll kill to keep it that way. Now Emma must rely on local ER doctor Logan Greer to help her stay alive and follow a trail of elusive evidence. But as they unravel a conspiracy, they realize that the killer could be anyone hiding in the mountains…

My Review:

This is a good inspirational suspense set in the West Virginia mining hills. There is good suspense, especially at the end. Furlong explores the desperation some might feel from mines closing. Several other issues are present in this novel, including growing through grief, dealing with PTSD, and what gives ongoing meaning in one's profession. There is a subtle faith message.

Furlong has given readers a good contemporary murder mystery and cold case combination. Her writing style is such that the plot pace keeps one turning pages. There are good twists and a well done budding romance. I recommend this good mystery set in an interesting location.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Book Details:

Genre: Love Inspired Suspense - Romantic Suspense
Published by: Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense
Publication Date: April 1, 2025
Number of Pages: 206
ISBN: 9781335980533 (ISBN10: 1335980539)
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads | Harlequin

Author Bio:

Susan Furlong grew up in North Dakota where she spent long winters at her local library scouring the shelves for mysteries to read. Now, she lives in Illinois with her husband and children and writes mysteries of all types. She has over a dozen published novels and her work has earned a spot in the New York Times list of top crime fiction books of the year. When not writing, she volunteers at her church and spends time hiking and fishing.

Catch Up With Susan Furlong:

www.SusanFurlong.com
Amazon Author Profile
Goodreads
BookBub - @SusanFurlongAuthor
Instagram - @susanfurlong
Threads - @susanfurlong
X - @Furlong_Sue
Facebook - @SusanFurlongAuthor
Pinterest - @S_FurlongAuthor

 

Tour Participants:

Visit these other great hosts on this tour for more great reviews, interviews, guest posts, and opportunities to WIN in the giveaway!

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1. 03/20 Book Reviews From an Avid Reader MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

2. 03/20 The Mystery of Writing MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Guest post

3. 03/21 Country Mamas With Kids MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

4. 03/21 Novels Alive MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

5. 03/22 From the TBR Pile MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

6. 03/23 Guatemala Paula Loves to Read MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

7. 03/25 Miss W Book Reviews MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

8. 04/04 dianas_books_cars_coffee MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

9. 04/08 The AR Critique MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

10. 04/09 darciahelle MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Interview

11. 04/12 Reading is my Superpower MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

12. 04/14 FullyBookedInKentucky MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

13. 04/15 fundinmental MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

14. 04/17 fuonlyknew MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

15. 04/18 bookwormbecky1969 MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

16. 04/19 Carla’s Book Crush MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

17. 04/21 elaine_sapp65 MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

18. 04/23 Avonna Loves Genres MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

19. 04/23 Wall-to-wall Books MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

20. 04/24 Cozy Home Delight Book Reviews MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

21. 04/25 cj_mo_2222 MURDER IN THE APPALACHIANS Review

Note: this is a private list. Only the list owner can enter links.

Linky Tools  |  Linky Blog 2013

Click here to view the Tour Schedule

 

Don't Miss Out! Enter Now for Your Chance to Win!

This is a giveaway hosted by Partners in Crime Tours for Susan Furlong. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited.

Can't see the giveaway? Click Here!

 

 

Get More Great Reads at Partners In Crime Tours

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Partners in Crime Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.) 

Ephesians: Experience God's Power by Sarah K Howley Blog Tour Book Review

About the Book

Book: Ephesians: Experience God’s Power

Author: Sarah K. Howley

Genre: Bible Study

Release date: January 5, 2025

Are you ready to dive deep into the life-changing truths of Ephesians? In this 8-session Bible study, you’ll explore how God’s power is available to us today—transforming our lives, our relationships, and the world around us.

Sarah K. Howley, author, speaker, and founder of InspiritEncourage, is your guide on this journey through Ephesians. With insightful questions and thoughtful guidance, Sarah will help you uncover:

- The incredible spiritual blessings that God has prepared for you.

- His vision for unity among His people while honoring each person’s unique gifts.

- How to live with purpose and conviction, experiencing the fullness of life as a Christian.

- Old Testament connections that deepen your understanding of the New Testament.

- Practical ways to live out God’s truths in your daily life.

Each hour-long session includes a key Scripture passage, an introduction, engaging questions, links to Old Testament passages, and personal application. Perfect for individual or group study, Ephesians: Experience God’s Power will strengthen your faith and build deeper connections in unity with others.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

This is a good study of Ephesians, especially for those who do not want to do a deep dive into the original Greek. Howley provides introductory questions to consider before reading the designated passage and additional questions as the passage is read. In that respect, this is pretty much a general study of Ephesians that could be used for individual or group study. The eight studies cover the entire book so it is a section by section study as opposed to verse by verse.

The strength of this study is exploring some Old Testament passages and how they relate to the New Testament book. Understanding these concepts from the Old Testament helps us realize the amazing truths Paul shares. That makes this study a good one for new Christians or ones not so familiar with the Old Testament. Only references are given in the book so one will need a Bible when doing this study.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

 

About the Author

Sarah K. Howley is the founder of InspiritEncourage ministries, a trained Christian counselor, and the author of numerous Bible studies. She loves Jesus and is passionate about helping believers grow spiritually and take on Christ’s character. Sarah often travels the world, usually with espresso in hand. She and her husband support initiatives for feeding the hungry and for expanding access to reading.

More from Sarah

Years ago, I was travelling a bit before starting a new teaching job. I found myself thinking that it would be neat to visit a few places of the Bible and soon made plans and set off for Turkey. One of my stops was Ephesus; the thought that I was walking in the same place as Paul and his disciples was pretty amazing. I saw the library (now open-air) and the place where the temple of Diana had been.

Having visited and then reflected on the visit while studying the Bible, I realized that the ruins of the port town of Ephesus were a living monument to the difficult living conditions of the believers in Paul’s time. There was much remaining of the Ephesian pagan world, of a time when Christians were a fledgling group that needed the encouragement that Paul offered.

Still today, looking around me it is easy to think that we are still a fledgling group of Christians that need Paul’s encouragement. Division and favoritism are still prevalent today and we are surrounded by nonbelievers. But Paul offered words of wisdom that are still relevant to us today.

You may not visit Turkey soon, but you can connect with the people of the land through Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. We can walk a mile in their shoes as we study the encouragement of Paul and experience the power of Christ in our own lives.

Blog Stops

Stories By Gina, March 15 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, March 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 17

She Lives To Read, March 18

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 19

The Sacred Line, March 19

Simple Harvest Reads, March 20 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, March 20

By the Book, March 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 22

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 23

For the Love of Literature, March 24 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 25

Cover Lover Book Review, March 26

EmpowerMoms, March 27

Artistic Nobody, March 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Sarah is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of the book!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54173

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review. The rest of the copy of this post was provided by Celebrate Lit.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)