Review of Bowled Over by Victoria Hamilton and Interview

Synopsis:
Vintage kitchenware and cookbook collector Jaymie Leighton has been estranged from her high school best friend Kathy Cooper since they were teenagers, but she never knew what turned Kathy against her. After fireworks at a Fourth of July picnic, Jaymie discovers the body of her former friend in the park. On the ground nearby is Jaymie’s own Depression-era glass bowl, broken in two.

With her fingerprints all over the bowl and a troubled history with the victim, Jaymie suddenly finds herself at the top of the list of suspects. Did the killer intend to frame her for the murder? If so, she is ready to mix it up, because solving crimes is vintage Jaymie Leighton…


Amazon Purchase Link:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0425251926/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie

My Review:

What a wonderful cozy.  This one really kept me guessing.  The killer ended up being someone you wouldn't suspect at all.  Once this book grabbed my attention, I didn't want to put it down.  This book is filled with wonderful characters, and pets,  and I really liked the small town feel.  Jaymie was so down to earth and charming.  She is someone I would like to meet.  I definetly want to visit Queensville and Jaymie Leighton again.  Great job Victoria! 

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.

Meet the author:

Victoria Hamilton is the pseudonym for author Donna Lea Simpson. As Victoria she writes the bestselling Vintage Kitchen Mystery series (Book 1 – A Deadly Grind – May 2012/Book 2 – Bowled Over – March 2013) and the upcoming Merry Muffin Mysteries, also from Berkley (Book 1 – Bran New Death – September 3^rd, 2013)  Victoria loves cooking and collecting vintage kitchen utensils, as well as reading and writing mysteries. Check out her webpage for all the latest: http://www.victoriahamiltonmysteries.com and find her on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorVictoriaHamilton  

Interview:

1.      When did you start writing and what are your inspirations?

I was just a kid when I started writing. At first I wrote weird little short stories influenced by the science fiction that read. Eventually, though, I realized that I loved mystery novels more than any other genre. I read a lot of Agatha Christie and Dorothy L. Sayers growing up, as well as other mystery authors.

I tried my hand at a mystery novel and wrote one, then started to send it out to publishers. That was back in the dinosaur age before computers and the internet, so it was typed, using a carbon for every page to make a copy, and with whiteout corrections. It was awful of course, but I got enough encouragement that I kept writing. At some point I realized that the romance market was much more open to new writers, so I wrote a Regency – the sub-genre I read all the time – and found a small publisher who wanted to publish it. From there I wrote another, and finally broke in to Kensington in their Zebra line of traditional Regency novels.

I wrote Regencies for several years, then paranormal historical romances, then a trilogy of historical romances. It was past time to make the move into my first love, though, and when I found my current agent, everything changed. Now I have three cozy series with Berkley Prime Crime! I’m a lucky writer.

2.       Who did you base the character of Jaymie Leighton on?

No one, really. Like most of my characters I took a snippet here and a snippet there to create a new person, one who collects what I enjoy, but whose life is completely different from my own!

3.       Do you also collect vintage kitchenware and cookbooks like Jaymie?

I sure do. I love bowls, especially, and the murder weapon in Bowled Over, as well as the bowls on the cover, are from my own collection! I love old utensils and vintage table linens, too. I also enjoy vintage cookbooks and old handwritten recipes.

4.       Is cooking a hobby of yours?  If so, what do you most like to cook?

I have been cooking most of my life and enjoy it a lot, though I would never want to be a professional chef. I like pasta dishes, casseroles, as well as muffins and cookies. In fact my love of  muffins inspired my second cozy series, Merry Muffin Mysteries, set to debut September 3^rd with Bran New Death!

5.       Where did the inspiration for three legged Yorkie-Poo, Hopalong come from?

I love dogs, even though I don’t have one. Neighbors of a friend have an adorable Yorkie, and I love the breed so much. I’ve always been touched by the valiant nature of amputee dogs and their owners, and horrified by the cruelty of puppy mills, and so, Hoppy (Hopalong) was born! If I could have a dog, it would be Hoppy!

6.       How many more titles do you have planned for this series?

Book 3 – Freezer I’ll Shoot - comes out on November 5^th of this year. I wasn’t sure if it would continue on, but the series has been renewed and I have been contracted for two more Vintage Kitchen Mystery novels, so it will go on to Book 5, at least! I’m really happy about that, because I’m dying to know what happens to these folks!

Thank you so much for having me on your blog! I enjoyed the questions.

Link to Cozy Mystery Book Review Giveaway:


https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1wRNQWfMhr81HjiwZNXCuK4U6kNKomBW4PTgrYdZgeRY/viewform and the link to the post: http://cozymysterymarketing.com/?p=223.

 

 

Review of Kim Vogel Sawyer's Sweet Sanctuary

 About Sweet Sanctuary: A Story of Hope and Love Set Against the Backdrop of World War II

Lydia Eldredge longs to provide sanctuary for her young son, Nicky. But a constant threat comes from Nicky's drug-addicted father, who wants the boy and seems willing to do whatever it takes to get him.

Dr. Micah Hatcher faithfully serves the immigrant population of Queens, New York. But under cover of darkness, he has a secret mission that challenges everything he thought he wanted out of life.

When Lydia and Micah's paths cross, they are suddenly wrapped up in each other's callings. Together, they seek a refuge of safety-for Nicky, for themselves, and for the needy people God puts into their lives. Amid turmoil and discord, can hope and love prevail?

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/jRdKJ

 

My Review:

 

First, I usually don't say anything about covers, but I love the cover of this book, it is so catchy.  And that just made the book that much better.  This was a wonderful story.  All the characters are so likable.  The writing was so good that I came away feeling like I knew the people in the story personally.  A wonderful story of GOD's redemption and love.  Micah and Lydia showed GOD's love throughout the book and it was so heartwarming to read their story.    If you are looking for a heartwarming, inspiring story, this one is for you.  Good job Kim.

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.

 

Meet Kim: Kim Vogel Sawyer is the author of twenty-one novels, including several CBA and ECPA bestsellers. Her books have won the ACFW Book of the Year Award, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Kim is active in her church, where she leads women's fellowship and participates in both voice and bell choirs. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, quilting, and calligraphy. Kim and her husband, Don, reside in central Kansas, and have three daughters and nine grandchildren.

Find out more about Kim at http://www.kimvogelsawyer.com/.

 

http://litfusegroup.com/author/KSawyer

To celebrate the release of  Sweet Sanctuary Kim Vogel Sawyer is giving away a Cupcake Club membership (monthly cupcake delivery!) from the amazing Magnolia Bakery in New York and hosting a Facebook Author Chat party {4/30}!

One "sweet" winner will receive:

• Cupcakes from NYC’s Magnolia Bakery delivered to your door every month. (Eat them all yourself or share!)
• Sweet Sanctuary by Kim Vogel Sawyer for you and four of your friends. (Start a book group — cupcakes and a "sweet" read!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 29th. Winner will be announced at the "Sweet Sanctuary" Author Chat Party on 4/30. Connect with Kim, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at a trivia contest, and chat with readers just like yourself. There will also be fun giveaways - gift certificates, books, and more!

So grab your copy of Sweet Sanctuary and join Kim on the evening of April 30th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 30th!

Review of Connie Mann's Angel Falls

About the Book:

Her best friend’s been murdered and Brazilian orphanage director Regina da Silva will do whatever it takes to protect her friend’s baby. Even if it means dealing with an intimidating man she’s not sure she can trust.

Former Army Ranger Brooks Andersonrefuses to protect anyone ever again. The last time he did, the woman and child both died. He’s just here to transport an orphan for adoption, as promised, and then he’s outta there.

But when bullets fly, Brooks and Reginarisk everything and dive headlong into danger to protect one defenseless child.

As the killer closes in and long-buried secrets come to light, they’ll have to trust each other to stay alive.

Will that be enough to save their little angel--and themselves—from plunging to their deaths over the Falls?

 

AMAZON| BARNES& NOBLE

My Review:

This book grabbed my attention and held it the whole way through.  It had lots of action.  Regina works in an orphanage in Brazil, and when her best friend is killed, she has to take care of her child.  Brooks, the son of the orphanage directors is sent to bring the child back to America.  Brooks and Regina end up on the run fighting for their lives.  This book left you on the edge of your seat.  You think that Brooks and Regina have escaped peril, but something occurs that throws them right back in.  There is also a great message of redememption in this book, that GOD will forgive anything.  If you are looking for an intense, edge-of-your seat thriller, this is the book for you.  Great job Connie.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.

About the Author:

Connie Mann loves stories that combine suspense, adventure and second chances. She offers encouragement to busy women on her blog: www.BusyWomenBigDreams.comand is an active member of Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers. She’s also a USCG-licensed boat captain, so when she’s not writing, she’s usually on Central Florida’s waterways with local school children or her fabulous family.

Her latest book is the Christian fiction, Angel Falls.

Please visit her online at: www.conniemann.com.

CONNECT WITH CONNIE:

TWITTER| FACEBOOK

 

 

Book Excerpt:

Porto Alegre, Southern Brazil, Present Day

Regina da Silva tied the laces on her cracked leather boots and yanked the hand-knitted wool stockings Olga made her last Christmas up past her knees. Outside, an icy wind fought to get in through the wooden shutters guarding House of Angels’ orphanage. She straightened the layers of skirts swirling around her ankles, knowing she’d give away all but one before the night ended.

She didn’t want to go out tonight, and that made her feel small and selfish. And guilty. So she hefted the wicker basket filled with meat pastries and opened the door—before she changed her mind. On nights like tonight, she didn’t know which she hated most—the cold, or the memories.

“You are still going out tonight, Regina?” Irene demanded quietly from behind her, voice heavy with accusation. And disappointment.

“Just this one night, Regina, stay home. We’ll talk. Laugh, maybe even shed a few tears. Minha amiga, even Jesus took time off for his friends.”

Reginaswallowed hard and glanced over her shoulder at the sagging sofa, where Irene sat with her feet curled under her, cuddling her three-month-old son. The pleading tone almost demolished the fence guarding Regina’s mouth.

A gust of wind snatched the door from her grasp and slammed it against the wall, the crash a call to arms. “If I don’t go, who will?” Reginaasked. She didn’t add, “since you aren’t anymore,” but it echoed in the room nonetheless. Reginatried to keep the hurt out of her voice. She still couldn’t believe Irene and little Eduardo were moving to the United States in the morning and leaving her behind. She was thrilled for Irene. She was furious, too, and mad at herself for feeling that way. But she couldn’t find words for any of it. So she simply pointed to the basket and said, “Olga has the meat pastries ready and Jorge packed extra blankets.” Reginapulled on a pair of handmade mittens, carefully pulling together the hole in one thumb.

Irene sent her a piercing sad-eyed look. “You can’t save them all, you know.”

At the familiar argument, Reginamet her gaze, eyes hot, and repeated what she always said in response. “Maybe not. But I can save some.”

Irene sighed. “I’ll pick you up in the morning, then. Be safe, my friend.”

Reginakissed her friend on both cheeks, did the same for Eduardo, and then headed out before she caved in to Irene’s pleading. The wind hacked through the slums, andReginahunched farther into her threadbare coat, determined to ignore everything but the task at hand. Especially the memories.

She shifted her grasp on the heavy basket and kept her eyes fixed on the barrel of burning trash ahead. Automatically avoiding open sewers and billowing newspapers, she followed the dancing flames like a ship to a lighthouse. Odd that both lights warned of danger, yet promised safety.

Reginatightened her scarf and snorted. Here on the streets, safety was an illusion, a wish unfulfilled. How many nights had she and Irene spent just like these street children, huddled around a barrel, protecting their right to be there by clutching a switchblade in a shaking fist? They would probably be dead if not for Noah Anderson, who had done exactly what Reginawould do tonight. What she and Irene had done together for years.

But everything had changed. Irene planned to take Eduardo to Floridaand leave Reginato run the orphanage alone. Her throat tightened, so she stepped up her pace, shoving self-pity roughly away. She had a job to do tonight. The children were cold and hungry and she could help—at least a little. Keep them safe, God, please.

Reginaknew the exact moment the children caught the scent of meat pastry, for suddenly a swarm of children surrounded her, shouting, “Senhorita Anjo, um pastel,um pastel.”

Reginasmiled warmly, though she still couldn’t get used to being called Miss Angel, even after four years as co-director of House of Angels.

The crowd surged, pressing close, but Regina’s willowy height worked to her advantage. “Hello, children. Fernando, Stephan, back up and let the little ones closer.” Reginagently pulled the smaller children toward her, trying not to think about just how young they really were. Could Christiane be more than five? Already her beautiful brown eyes held dull acceptance, the understanding that life would never get any better than this—that hopes and dreams were for other, richer children.

Suddenly, the skin on the back of Regina’s neck prickled, and she stopped dead on the cracked sidewalk. Someone was watching her. Again. She hugged one of the children as she scanned the street, but saw nothing out of place, no one who didn’t belong. Yet there was someone there, someone with evil in mind. Every street child knew what that meant. If you were smart, you ran and hid.

Even fifteen years later, Regina’s flight instincts screamed just that. But she wouldn’t. Couldn’t. The children needed her. She fingered her switchblade and looked back, relieved to see old Jorge in the beat-up orphanage van, lumbering slowly up the cobbled street behind her. The groundskeeper had packed an extra box of blankets, in case the thermometer dropped sharply tonight. And he carried his own knife—just in case. Jorge clambered down from the van and opened the back doors.

“Go get a blanket, children. Fernando, where is the one I gave you yesterday?”

The instant the words left her mouth, Reginawanted to call them back. The twelve-year-old hung his head in shame and shrugged, telling her without words that someone had taken it from him and he hadn’t been able to stop them. “Go get another. It is all right,” she said gently, trying to spare his pride.

“Thank you, Senhorita Angel,” he said, but instead of heading toward the line forming behind the van, he disappeared into the shadows.

Reginatried to call him back, but snapped her attention to the basket when one of the newer boys tried to make off with two pastries. “One,” she said firmly, holding his thin wrist until he let go.

Within moments, the meat pastries were gone, the blankets dispersed, and she’d sent at least ten children to the van for a ride to the orphanage. If she could have fit more pallets into the dining hall, Reginawould have scooped up more children. And still, the crowd grew bigger than it had been before.

“Senhorita Angel,” a voice shouted.

Whirling around, Reginasaw Fernando running toward her. Panting, he skidded to a stop. “You must come, now. Please.”

Reginadidn’t hesitate. Before she reached the van, Jorge had started the engine and handed her medical bag through the window. He motioned her forward and prepared to follow.

“Let’s go,” she said, and smiled when Fernando grabbed her bag before galloping off. She couldn’t be sure if this was his attempt at gallantry, or a way to make sure she kept up with his punishing pace. As she ran down narrow alleys and grim little streets, Reginaprepared to put the nurse’s training she’d received in the USto instant use. She prayed it would be enough. Too often, though, what little she could offer came years too late.

Angel Falls Tour Page:

http://www.pumpupyourbook.com/2013/03/16/pump-up-your-book-presents-angel-falls-virtual-book-publicity-tour/

 

 

 

Giveaway and Review of Mitzi Kelly's Deadly Policy

NOTE:  AVALON IS NO LONGER THE PUBLISHER OF THIS BOOK, IT IS THOMAS & MERCER.

When a sudden rash of stolen cars brings Millie Morrow's daughter under suspicion for conspiracy to commit insurance fraud, Millie convinces her two best friends, Trish Anderson and Edna Radcliff, to help her find out who is trying to frame Michelle. Knowing the odds are against them that they will be able to discover who the thugs are, Trish and Edna nevertheless go through the motions of investigating, hoping Millie will feel productive in helping her daughter while the police do the real detective work. But the situation becomes much more serious when a body is found in front of the insurance office Michelle works for. And even though the evidence pointing to an inside job is purely circumstantial, it could still destroy Michelle, something the ladies are determined to prevent. They're going to have to work fast to present a different theory for the police to consider, though, since Millie has once again alienated Henry Espinoza, the chief of police. And she's alienated someone else, too, if the suspicious incidents suddenly plaguing her are anything to go by. Keeping Millie out of trouble while attempting to clear her daughter's name will take every ounce of skill . . . or luck . . . the amateur sleuths possess.

My Review:

I read somewhere the "silver sleuths" being compared to the Golden Girls, well I think that is accurate.  They were a hoot.  They loved each other and were there for each no matter what, but they argued and fussed with each other.  They could fuss at each other, but no one else had better try it. 
In this stroy, Millie's daughter Michelle works at an insurance agency.  Cars that are insured by this agency are being stolen.  So the "Silver Sleuths" are on the case to figure out who is behind this scam.  Along the way, a murder occurs that is tied to the car theft ring.  The "Silver Sleuths" have to solve the crime and apprehend the mastermind behind the theft ring.  This was a great read, very fast and entertaining.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. 

Mitzi Kelly has many review copies, so she has offered to giveaway one set of books per blog. The giveaway is US only and is for both Classic Revenge and Deadly Policy. Just leave a comment below and I will pick a random winner.  Good Luck.

Review of Amy Saunders Cliffhanger





Synopsis:

Making her grand re-entry into Portside, Rhode Island, Belinda Kittridge expected fun, sun, and sugar cookies. Instead, she gets one jilted lover braced for round two, an old rival on the hunt, and the murder of a former classmate and friend. Even worse, Belinda must return to the events surrounding a tragic sailing accident to set things right. But new possibilities emerge in the form of security expert Bennett Tate. Between her connections and his know-how, they're bound to catch the killer - and kick the skeletons out of the closet for good.

 

 

My Review:

 

This was a fun read and very entertaining.  Belinda comes back to help her brother Kyle pack up their parents house in Portside, RI so it can be remodeled.  While there, she goes to a party at an old friend form high schools house.  Another old friend is murdered and Kyle is charged with the murder.  Belinda teams up with the security guy from the party Bennett Tate to solve the murder.  Well, lets just say sparks fly.    Belinda is also pursued by her 18 year old neighbor.  Lot of suspects in this cozy whodunnit.  Belinda and Bennett are awesome.

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.

 

 

 

 

Author Bio:

I've written two mystery novels so far. My first, Dead Locked, is about Imogen Bell who works for a team of underwater archaeologists and ends up embroiled in a deadly treasure hunt. My second mystery, The Jester's Apprentice, is about Philippa, a woman caught between her new husband Edric and his smoky past - and hers.

I've always loved mysteries, even in elementary school. My mother raised me on TV show reruns like Murder, She Wrote, Matlock, and Magnum, P.I, and later I picked up her Agatha Christie addiction.

However, sometimes I just want a hot (but intelligent) guy and a strong woman bantering for pages. Or a gripping action sequence. Or some fun sci-fi/fantasy elements. And sometimes I want it all in the same book. So with mystery as the backbone of my stories, I blend in romance, action, adventure, and soon sci-fi to keep it fresh and exciting.

Why should you take a chance on my books? Well, I write what I'm passionate about, and I'm passionate about people and mysteries. I make my characters passionate too: about each other, about what they're hunting, fixing, or piecing together. Above all, I want my readers to have fun, and leave happy!





Review Lead Your Family like Jesus

More about Lead Your Family Like Jesus:

Powerful Parenting Principles from the Creator of Families

(Focus on the Family/Tyndale) - Does your family need a five-star general at the helm? A psychologist? A referee? Ken Blanchard, best-selling co-author of The One Minute Manager and Lead Like Jesus, points to a better role model: the Son of God. Joined by veteran parents and authors Phil Hodges and Tricia Goyer, renowned business mentor Blanchard shows how every family member benefits when parents take the reins as servant-leaders. Moms and dads will see themselves in a whole new light-as life-changers who get their example, strength, and joy from following Jesus at home. This user-friendly book's practical principles and personal stories mark the path to a truly Christ-centered family, where integrity, love, grace, self-sacrifice, and forgiveness make all the difference.

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/jizhQ

 

My Review:

 

An insightful book with practical, Biblical principals to "lead your family like Jesus".  Each section has a great review to let you know what that section is about.  Written from the prospective of three great authors who tell of their own experiences to give you practical knowledge of how to lead your family in a Godly, Christian way.  There are "Pause and Reflect" passages in each chapter that help you to do just that, pause and reflect on how to make your family better. 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.

Meet the Authors:

Tricia:

Bestselling author of more than 30 novels, nine nonfiction books, and more than three hundred articles for national publications; 2003 "Writer of the Year" at the Mount Hermon Christian Writer's Conference; popular blog writer, speaker, and radio host

Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.

Ken:

Leadership expert and author of over 50 books, including the New York Times bestseller, The One-Minute Manager; cofounder of Lead Like Jesus; and coauthor of Lead Like Jesus; Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time

Learn more about Ken at www.kenblanchard.com

Phil:

A human resource and industrial relations manager in corporate America for 36 years with Xerox Corporation and U.S. Steel, co- founder of Lead Like Jesus; co-author of five books, including The Servant Leader and Leadership by the Book with Bill Hybels.

Learn more about Phil at www.leadlikejesus.com

 

 

Landing page:

http://litfusegroup.com/author/tgoyer

Review of A Noble Groom by Jody Hedlund

  About A Noble Groom:

Michigan, 1880

Annalisa Werner's hope for a fairy tale love is over. Her husband failed her in every way and now his death has left her with few options to save the family farm. She needs a plentiful harvest. That, and a husband to help bring it in. Someone strong, dependable. That'll be enough. A marriage for love...that's something she's given up on.

So her father sends a letter to his brother in the Old Country, asking him to find Annalisa a groom.
Then a man appears: Carl Richards, from their home country of Germany and a former schoolteacher---or so he says. He's looking for work and will serve on the farm until her husband arrives.

With time running out, she accepts his help, but there's more to this man than he's admitting. He's also gentle, kind, charming---unlike any man she's ever known. But even as Carl is shining light into the darkness of her heart, she knows her true groom may arrive any day.

 

My Review:

 

This book started out kind of slow for me, but quickly picked up.  I loved reading of the struggles of Annalisa and Carl.  Throughout the book, I rooted for them to get together.  They had a lot of stuggles, but Carl never lost his faith.  Annalisa  had to be reminded from time to time that GOD did care for her.  A very well written, heartwarming story.  Great job Jody.

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/jX8h7

 

 

Meet Jody: Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of "The Doctor's Lady" and "The Preacher's Bride". She won the 2011 Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, the 2011 Award of Excellence from the Colorado Romance Writers and was a finalist for Best Debut Novel in the 2011 ACFW Carol Awards. Currently she makes her home in central Michigan, with her husband and five busy children. She loves hearing from readers on Facebook and on her blog.

Find out more about Jody at http://jodyhedlund.com/.

 

 

Landing page:

http://litfusegroup.com/author/jhedlund

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

Jody Hedlund is celebrating the release of A Noble Groom by giving away a Kindle Fire and hosting a Facebook Author Chat Party {5/8}! 

One "noble" winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• A copy of A Noble Groom by Jody Hedlund

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 7th. Winner will be announced at the "A Noble Groom" Author Chat Party on May 8th. Connect with Jody, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at the trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be many fun giveaways -- gift certificates, books, and more!

So grab your copy of A Noble Groom and join Jody on the evening of May 8th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 8th!

Review of Ace Collins' Darkness Before Dawn

 

 

On the same night she discovers she is pregnant, twenty-eight-year-old nurse Meg Richards’husband is killed in an auto accident caused by a drunken teen. James Thomas, the teen, comes from one of the most influential families in the community. He’s a star athlete and glamour boy at the local high school. Angered by her senseless loss, Meg blames God for what has happened and considers a decision that could change her life even further—until the D.A. intervenes.

The results of the brutal trial enrage Meg, leading her down a frightening path of retribution. When the opportunity for revenge comes unexpectedly, will Meg follow through? Or will the remnants of her faith lead her in a different direction?

 



AMAZON| BARNES& NOBLE

My Review:

This was a very intense book.  When Meg found out her husband had been killed, I felt very bad for her.  But then she was filled with so much hate, that I didn't really like how she was acting.  She was so bent on revenge, that was the only thing she could think of.  Fortunatly, GOD is always there and has ways of making you see your wrongs.  After the trial of the young man who was responsible for the accident that killed her husband, Meg unleashed her revenge and made the man's life a real living hell.  When she has to decide whether to save his life in the ER, what will Meg decide to do.  Meg was making some very bad decisions till she finally figured out that she needed to let GOD have control again.  I'm glad the book turned out the way it did.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.

 

 

About the Author:

Bestselling author Ace Collins has written more than fifty books including novels Farraday Road, Swope’s Ridge and Words of the Father, as well as the nonfiction Stories Behind The Best-Loved Songs of Christmas, grAttitudes, and Lassie A Dog’s Life. His books have become movies and network television specials. He has appeared on Good Morning America, the NBC Nightly News and The Today Show and has been featured in the Distinguished Lecture Series at the National Archives in Washington D.C. Ace Collins has sold more than 1.5 million books during his career.

His latest book is the Christian fiction, Darkness Before Dawn.

Visit Ace’s website at www.acecollins.com.

 

Connect with Ace:

 

TWITTER | FACEBOOK

Review of Murder at Rosamund's Gate by Susanna Calkins and Giveaway

 

 

 

 

For Lucy Campion, a seventeenth-century English chambermaid serving in the household of the local magistrate, life is an endless repetition of polishing pewter, emptying chamber pots, and dealing with other household chores until a fellow servant is ruthlessly killed, and someone close to Lucy falls under suspicion. Lucy can’t believe it, but in a time where the accused are presumed guilty until proven innocent, lawyers aren’t permitted to defend their clients, and—if the plague doesn't kill the suspect first—public executions draw a large crowd of spectators, Lucy knows she may never find out what really happened. Unless, that is, she can uncover the truth herself.

Determined to do just that, Lucy finds herself venturing out of her expected station and into raucous printers’ shops, secretive gypsy camps, the foul streets of London, and even the bowels of Newgate prison on a trail that might lead her straight into the arms of the killer.

 

 

My Review:

 

I really enjoyed this mystery.  Lucy was a character that I really liked. She was a strong-willed and loyal servant to her employers and she was determined to find out who killed her friend, Bessie.  When the house-hold is felled by the black plague, it is Lucy who holds it all together.  Even though she is a servant her employer, Magistrate Hargrave thinks she is a smart girl and treats her as such.  His son, Adam has feelings for her, but alas she is just a servant.  It is exciting what happens when Lucy finally finds out who the killer is.  A great read full of historical accuracy.  A great job Susanna.



 

 

SUSANNA CALKINS became fascinated with seventeenth-century England while pursuing her doctorate in British history. A former pirate, she once served on the Golden Hinde--a museum replica of Sir Frances Drake's ship--now dry docked in the Thames. Originally from Philadelphia, Calkins now lives outside of Chicago with her husband and two sons. The Murder at Rosamund's Gate, featuring Lucy Campion, is her first novel.

 

We will be giving away a $40 Amazon.com gift card and two hardback copies of Murder at Rosamund's Gate (3 winners).

 

Here is the link to enter. Good luck!

 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1qq7tb7JTlAX3KbtIV1ljEFSKR9YxnFMrOPxHlX9X138/viewform.