|
|
|
|
|
Saturday, June 1, 2024
My Thoughts - MIA by John Lansing
Friday, May 24, 2024
My Thoughts - Amish Witness to Murder (Amish Country Justice, 18) Written by Dana R. Lynn
ABOUT THE BOOK
To identify her father’s killer…
she must stay alive
After finding her family’s barn in flames and witnessing her father’s murder, Beth Troyer becomes the killer’s next target. She narrowly escapes death when the murderer turns on her, but now she’s left temporarily blind. She’ll have to rely on former family friend Gideon Bender to keep her safe until her eyesight returns. But with a killer who’ll stop at nothing to find her, staying alive might just be impossible…
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
Amish Country Justice
Book 1: Plain Target
Book 2: Plain Retribution
Book 3: Amish Christmas Abduction
Book 4: Amish Country Ambush
Book 5: Amish Christmas Emergency
Book 6: Guarding the Amish Midwife
Book 7: Hidden in Amish Country
Book 8: Plain Refuge
Book 9: Deadly Amish Reunion
Book 10: Amish Country Threats
Book 11: Covert Amish Investigation
Book 12: Amish Christmas Escape
Book 13: Amish Cradle Conspiracy
Book 14: Her Secret Amish Past
Book 15: Crime Scene Witness
Book 16: Hidden Amish Target
Book 17: Hunted at Christmas
Book 18: Amish Witness to Murder
Book 19: Protecting the Amish Child
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dana R. Lynn believes the power of God can transcend any circumstance. She is a best-selling, award winning author who views her writing as a ministry to show His love can bring healing and peace. She writes romantic suspense for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line. She has been on Publisher’s Weekly Bestseller lists twice, and her 2017 title Plain Target won both the first place for her category and the overall Grand Prize winner in the New England Reader’s Choice Awards. Dana is a member of RWA (Romance Writers of America), ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers and Sisters in Crime. She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Literary Agency. In 1996, Dana met her husband at a wedding and told her parents she’d met the man she was going to marry. Nineteen months later, they were married. Today, they live in rural northwestern Pennsylvania with enough animals to start a petting zoo. In addition to writing, she works as a teacher for the deaf and hard of hearing and works in several ministries in her church.
My Thoughts
Amish Witness to Murder is book 18 in the Amish Country Justice Series that is written by Dana R. Lynn. Gideon Bender finally gets his own story. I have been waiting for his story. The author has really hit it out of the park with this story. Readers have gotten to know the Bender family through previous stories.
Beth and her sister, Miriam were raised by their father after their mother died. Beth still lives at home and is running late one day to meet her father for lunch. She sees smoke coming from the road she lives on and says a silent prayer.
Gideon had his heart broken by Beth's sister, Miriam. She ran off to the English world. He is a volunteer fire fighter and he is called to the scene of a fire at an Amish Household. He soon discovers that it is the Troyer household. He is checking the scene out, and he stumbles across Beth badly hurt.
It becomes clear that Beth stumbled across something she was not supposed to. She has a target on her back, and Gideon needs to put aside his feelings and protect her.
This book is packed full of action and suspense. You will want to keep turning pages to find out what happens next. Who would want to hurt an Amish man? I loved all the heart pounding action in this story.
The author has done an amazing job with Gideon's story. This is one that I was waiting on. The book is well written, the storyline is engaging.
Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
My Thoughts - Forgotten Secret: A Psychological Suspense Thriller Author: S.F. Baumgartner
Forgotten Secret Kick-Off Package
About the Book
Book: Forgotten Secret: A Psychological Suspense Thriller
Author: S.F. Baumgartner
Genre: Christian Suspense, Thriller
Release date: January 8, 2024
For two decades, forty-four-year-old magazine writer Clara Khoury has lived with missing pieces of herself—her memory. When the recent discovery of a young woman’s remains triggers her, she’s compelled to investigate. Now, her disturbing past threatens her contented present, someone frames her husband, and their daughter is abducted. If she can’t uncover the truth, she might lose everyone she loves.
Locked within Clara’s shattered mind are the keys to crimes past and present. Can she recover the forgotten secret before losing her family?
Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
S.F. Baumgartner is a Christian suspense thriller author. She graduated from the University of Hawaii and the University of Cincinnati. When not writing, she enjoys spending time with her cats, staying active, and binge-watching crime TV shows. She lives in Ohio with her family
More from S.F.
Why I Wrote “Forgotten Secret”: The Continuation of a Thrilling Journey
Writing a sequel can be a daunting task, especially after a book like “Living Secrets” leaves readers hanging on the edge of their seats. But when your mind is brimming with ideas and the story just won’t let you go, you have to give in and write the next chapter. That’s precisely what happened with “Forgotten Secret,” the second book in the Mirror Estate series.
After penning “Buried Secrets” and “Living Secrets,” I found myself immersed in a world of untold stories and unresolved mysteries. “Living Secrets” ended with what some called a cliffhanger – a term I might softly contest – but undoubtedly, it set the stage for a compelling follow-up. I knew I had to deliver on that tease, and the journey to “Forgotten Secret” began.
The seed for this story was planted in a bonus scene of the prequel, hinting at a character’s disappearance. I had a rough outline: a disappearance, an aunt’s involvement, and a human trafficking angle. However, the real story was still elusive, waiting for that spark of inspiration to ignite it.
And then, as fate would have it, I stumbled upon something about amnesia. Suddenly, the plot began to take shape, transforming these disjointed ideas into a coherent, thrilling narrative. This serendipitous moment was a reminder of how stories can evolve from the most unexpected sources.
Writing “Forgotten Secret” was an adventure in itself. Scenarios would pop into my mind unbidden, each vying for a place in the story. Some made the cut, while others were set aside, perhaps to be revisited in future works. The suspense thriller genre doesn’t traditionally lend itself to “fun” in the conventional sense – it’s all about tension, suspense, and that edge-of-your-seat feeling. But that’s exactly the kind of excitement I wanted to capture in this book.
I’ve always been intrigued by the unpredictability of the thriller genre. As an author, you’re constantly walking a tightrope between revealing too much and not enough, all while maintaining that relentless pace that keeps readers turning pages. It’s a challenge, but one that I find incredibly rewarding.
In “Forgotten Secret,” I’ve tried to create a roller-coaster of emotions and plot twists. I want readers to experience that heady mix of anticipation, shock, and satisfaction as they journey through the book. My hope is that they find themselves fully immersed in the story, living through each revelation and cliffhanger as intensely as I did while writing them.
Thank you for joining me on this thrilling ride. I hope “Forgotten Secret” keeps you guessing, leaves you breathless, and, above all, lives up to the secrets it promises to unveil.
My Thoughts
Forgotten Secret is a Psychological Suspense Thriller that is written by S.F. Baumgartner. This is book two in the Mirror Estate series. I’ve recently discovered this author and I love how she draws you in within the first few pages.
Clara is a magazine writer. She has had a tumultuous past a lot of it she has blocked out and does not remember. However, she is triggered when a young woman’s remains are found, and she wants to investigate to try to get to the bottom of it. Suddenly, she stands to lose everything, her husband is framed. Her daughter is taken, and she needs to sort the jumble out in her mind to try to solve everything.
The book will draw you in within the first few pages. The author has packed the book full of action suspense that you will want to keep turning pages to find out what happens next. While this is part of a series, I would definitely recommend reading book one so that way you could capture the entire Storyline.
The story is well written. The characters are real feeling. I cannot wait until the next book in the series.
Thank You to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book all thoughts on my own.
Blog Stops
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 15
Texas Book-aholic, May 16
Stories By Gina, May 17 (Author Interview)
Mary Hake, May 17
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 18
Locks, Hooks and Books, May 19
Betti Mace, May 20
Lily’s Corner, May 21
Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 22 (Author Interview)
Blogging With Carol, May 23
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, May 24
For Him and My Family, May 25
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, May 26 (Author Interview)
The Lofty Pages, May 26
An Author’s Take, May 27
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 28
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, S.F. is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and an eBook copy of the book!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/2b7cb/forgotten-secret-celebration-tour-giveaway
Thursday, May 23, 2024
My Thoughts- Hunting Justice Written by: Sami Abrams
Series: Elite Guardians: Savannah #2
Release Date: May 21, 2024
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense
A dark secret puts them in the crosshairs of a relentless killer…
Ex-detective and current Elite Guardian Noelle Burton survived a horrifying attack by a serial killer as a child. Now, determined to put the scars of her past behind her, she’s intent on helping the Elite Guardians set up shop in her hometown of Savannah, Georgia. More, she’s wondering if her friendship with Dr. Jonah Harris, an ex-ER doctor turned medical examiner, might be more. But he has his own demons to fight—namely guilt over the death of his wife.
So, maybe not.
Meanwhile, Jonah can’t ignore the growing desire he feels for Noelle. If only he knew he wasn’t going to destroy their friendship…
And then, tragedy strikes—the sudden death of a colleague rocks his world, and Jonah knows that there’s more to the incident than meets the eye. In fact, he may have been the intended target. Now he needs Noelle…not just as a friend, but as a protector.
Noelle will have to protect Jonah, while not letting their friendship spark into something more, and Jonah will have to unravel the threat that stalks him. Clues lead them down a dark path, revealing unsettling connections to a series of unsolved crimes. And when they stumble upon the chilling possibility of a serial killer lurking in the shadows, all Noelle’s nightmares come back to life.
Then the unthinkable occurs—the killer strikes again, targeting someone close to them. Noelle and Jonah race against time to expose the truth and capture the killer…and when their friendship becomes something deeper, it’s clear they have everything to lose.
Don’t miss this gripping story of resilience, trust, and the power of love in the exhilarating second book of the Elite Guardians: Savannah
About the Author
Award-winning, bestselling author Sami Abrams grew up hating to read. It wasn’t until her 30’s that she found authors that captured her attention. Now, most evenings, you can find her engrossed in a Romantic Suspense. In her opinion, a crime and a little romance is the recipe for a great story.
She lives in Northern California, but she will always be a Kansas girl at heart. She has a love of sports, family, and travel. However, a cabin at Lake Tahoe writing her next story is definitely at the top of her list.
My Thoughts
Hunting Justice is book two in the Elite Guardians: Savannah series. This one is written by Sami Abrams. The books can be read as standalones, however the series really is an action packed series. I’ve been fortunate enough to read everything that this author has written and I’ve always loved all of her work. This book is my favorite.
Noelle survived being kidnapped and tortured by a serial killer that was never caught. She threw herself into a law enforcement career and now works with the Elite Guardians. She had a murder wall in her home. Dedicated to herself and the victims that did not survive. She keeps her pain deep down and has never really told anyone about her time in captivity.
Until she meets Jonah. A widowed ER doctor turned medical examiner. Over the last year he has forged a friendship with Noelle. He still feels a lot of guilt for the death of his ex-wife. One day, his mentor and boss, Ken, comes to him and admits to falsifying autopsy reports. He wants to discuss things with Jonah, but when Jonah arrives at Ken’s home suddenly it blows up. It doesn’t take long to find out that someone is making sure that his secrets are staying hidden.
Jonah depends on Noelle and her Elite guardians team for around the clock protection. It becomes clear that the killer will not stop until Jonah is eliminated. Why falsify autopsy reports Jonah and Noelle determined to figure that out.
In the meantime, they both have to work through some of their past and baggage to be able to put the pieces together to solve the puzzle. I really liked their chemistry together. The author did a great job and pairing their personalities.
Action packed, full of heart, pounding suspense, and lots of twist and turns will keep you on the edge of the seat with this book. This has to have been my most favorite book by this author. I have enjoyed the elite guardians series and was excited to see the Savannah Branch, open up.
The author, publisher, and JustRead tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts on my own.
Monday, May 13, 2024
My Thoughts Gimme Some Sugar: 90 Devotions to Sweeten Your Day in a Godly Way Author: Linda Kozar
About the Book
Book: Gimme Some Sugar: 90 Devotions to Sweeten Your Day in a Godly Way
Author: Linda Kozar
Genre: Devotional Book, Nonfiction
Release date: April 2, 2024
A perfect start to a joyful heart.
Good things from God can calm the soul and fill you with confidence. In Gimme Some Sugar, award-winning author Linda Kozar brings her southern wit and wisdom to sweeten your life with spiritual nourishment to ponder, perspective to pray about, and a touch of joy to put a smile on your face. This 90-day devotional will encourage you to set your heart and mind on God’s Word while having fun along the way. Each devotion includes
- an engaging saying,
- inspiring insights from Scripture,
- practical advice for daily life, and
- a sprinkle of homespun humor.
Brighten your day with a spoonful of biblical encouragement and reminders of God’s enduring love, hope, and peace.
Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
Linda Kozar is an award-winning multi-published author of traditional and indie-published fiction and nonfiction books with a Southern flair. Linda and her husband Michael live in The Woodlands, Texas and enjoy spending time with their two grown daughters, their wonderful son-in-law, two grands Eden and Wesley, and Gypsy their rascally Jack Russell Terrier.
More from Linda
The Southern life is simple, savory food, sweet tea, and family. Whether you have a twang or a drawl, or nothing at all, if you’re Southern at heart these devotions will perk you up, give you a scriptural truth to ponder, and a spoonful of inspiration to sweeten your day.
—Linda Kozar, Author of Gimme Some Sugar
Good Gracious! Company’s Coming Cheese Straws
Ingredients:
1 pound (4 cups) freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese (gotta be sharp!)
1 cup salted butter (yes to salted)
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
4 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon black pepper (or white if preferred)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line your baking sheets with parchment or silicone sheets. Break out your box grater and go to town grating that sharp cheddar cheese on the fine side of the grater. When finished, (usually when your arm starts to hurt), cover and let it come to room temperature.
Add the butter and cheese to a stand mixer bowl and paddle beat for about ten minutes until creamed together.
Add salt, flour, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper l and mix on medium speed until fully combined.
Transfer dough to a cookie press fitted with a star tip (if you want your straws to look fancy). Or you can hand-roll long thin strips and cut into uniform lengths (about 3 inches) with a knife.
Bake for 12-14 minutes until lightly-browned. Let cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
My Thoughts
Gimme Some Sugar: 90 Devotions to Sweeten Your Day in a Godly Way
Is written by Linda Kozar. I really enjoyed this devotion. I love to bake and I was excited to get the “spoonfuls” of devotions daily.
The devotions all include: an engaging saying,inspiring insights from Scripture, practical advice for daily life, and a sprinkle of homespun humor. I thought each theme tied together nicely. I loved that each devotion should take about 5 minutes. This is perfect for a bedtime table or at work when you’re feeling stressed.
The author organized her thoughts wonderfully. She also backed everything up biblically. The theme flowed nicely. I hope she releases more devotions.
Thank you the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
Blog Stops
Its Mama Safe, May 2
She Lives To Read, May 3
Lighthouse Academy Blog, May 4 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)
Artistic Nobody, May 5 (Author Interview)
Mary Hake, May 5
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 6
Locks, Hooks and Books, May 7
By The Book, May 8 (Author Interview)
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 9
Texas Book-aholic, May 10
Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, May 11 (Author Interview)
Cover Lover Book Review, May 12
Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 13 (Author Interview)
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, May 13
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 14
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 15
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Linda is giving away the grand prize package of a $75 Amazon gift card and a hardcover copy of the book!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/2b581/gimme-some-sugar-celebration-tour-giveaway