Review ~ Some Bright Someday (Maple Valley #2) by Melissa Tagg

 

Published November 19th 2020 by Larkspur Press

He’s torn between love and honor...

Lucas Danby has always regretted the decisions that caused his dishonorable discharge from the military—and he’s never stopped trying to redeem his honor. He's spent the past decade taking on dangerous short-term missions as an elite private soldier—the only part of his life that's ever gone right. But the high-risk work never cures his shame. Now he’s stuck stateside, mentoring a new recruit. Worse, he's sick of lying to the people he cares about most—including the woman he’s secretly loved for years.

She can’t escape her house of memories...

Jenessa Belville should be happy. She's the hometown girl everyone loves, after all. But she’s also the last Belville left—and if she had her way, she'd leave the name and all its painful memories behind. Which is exactly what she hopes to do once she sells Belville Park, the massive estate she inherited from her parents. First, though, she needs to restore the property’s once-glorious gardens. But on the same day she puts up the “For Sale” sign, she discovers three children hiding in the caretaker's cottage, thrusting her into the unexpected role of temporary guardian.

Fighting for their future means healing from the past...

Struggling to mentor a young man with scars nearly as piercing as his own, Lucas offers to help Jenessa restore the Belville grounds. Though drawn together by a trio of kids who tug on their hearts and the sparks they can’t deny, past secrets and current sorrows threaten to pull them apart. Only the brightest love and hardest sacrifice can turn the house Jenessa never wanted into the home she and Lucas have always longed for.

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My Review  4 STARS

"I'm good at cracking mysteries. One day I will discover all your secrets."

Some Bright Someday is a compelling story with a labyrinth of emotions running through the pages. Interesting twists and turns involving Lucas’s new recruit, and the trio of siblings that Jenessa finds in the cottage, keeps the narrative moving forward.

Melissa Tagg is a not-to-be-missed contemporary romance writer. She takes intriguing subject matter and draws the reader into the story with exceptional descriptive language. Maple Valley is definitely a fictional community I would love to live in. The people and places entice you to come on in and sit a while.

Some Bright Someday is Christian fiction and a clean read that I recommend. The first book in the series, Now and Then and Always does not have to be read first but I highly recommend reading it.

I received an electronic copy of the book from the author. No review was required. No compensation received.

Review ~ One Plus One Equals Trouble (Love that Counts #1) by Sondra Kraak

Kindle Edition, 302 pages Published October 31st 2015 by Trail House Publishers 

The one room schoolhouse isn’t big enough to hold thirty-four students, let alone the egos of two teachers. He can’t afford to lose the position, and she refuses to lose her heart.

Humiliated after her broken engagement, Claire Montgomery flees her comfortable life in San Francisco for a teaching position in Pine Creek, Washington, a dot of a town nestled in the rugged Cascade Mountains. She’s determined to succeed—for once in her life—only to discover, upon her arrival, that success will have to be won. Thanks to a school board error, two teachers have been hired.

When scandal forces professor Barrett Clarke from his position, he returns to Pine Creek where his uncle, chairman of the school board, sets forth an irresistible offer: teach one year in return for ranchland. For this would-be rancher, nothing is more tempting than resurrecting his childhood dream, and nothing can deter him from earning that land.

Except perhaps Claire Montgomery. Losing the battle for the classroom means losing the ranchland, but winning may mean losing Claire’s heart.

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My Review ~ 4 STARS

I finally got around to reading a book by Sondra Kraak and I can certainly see why so many readers adore her books. One Plus One Equals Trouble is filled with spunk and sass and lots of laughs, while at the same time a longing for acceptance and grace is woven throughout. Some of the vernacular and ideas seem a bit contemporary but the story still resonates a lovely historical romance.

I bought my Kindle copy back in 2016. That's how long it sometimes takes me to get around to reading a book that I buy. It's FREE on KU right now if you subscribe. 

Have you read any of Sondra's books? Let me know in the comments. 

Have a blessed day in the Lord,

Review ~ Once Upon a Christmas (Book 3 of the Christmas Card Series) by Amanda Tru

 

If I only see you once...

When her flight home is canceled a few days before Christmas, Moe Scott spontaneously agrees to spend a few hours sight-seeing with a fellow passenger. At the time, she doesn't know the moments with James will change her life, nor does she know that before her plane takes off the next morning, she will turn around to find James gone.

With no way to contact him, Moe returns home only to lose everything before the new year dawns. Completely alone, jobless, and faced with the news that she is going blind, Moe remembers her time with James and clings to the idea of embracing the moments of vision she has left.

When opportunities for love and friendship come in the most unexpected places, Moe faces the choice of whether to continue to wait for the man who changed her life.

Will Moe and James ever find each other again? Can she learn to appreciate the beauty in each moment God provides and inspire those beyond her own darkness, even if she never sees again?

A once upon a Christmas inspires her story. Her ever after changes the world.

Author website - https://amandatru.com/

Purchase: Amazon

My Review 5 STARS!!!

Oh. My. Goodness. A friend of mine shared some highlights from this book on Goodreads that intrigued me. I borrowed a copy on KU and started reading it immediately. I had trouble putting it down and would have stayed up all night to read it, if possible. The story certainly wasn't what I expected. I was thinking it would be a fairly lighthearted, sweet Christmas romance but it was so much more!!! 

If you're looking for an inspirational story that will leave you contemplating and perhaps re-evaluating your "once" moments, this is the one. Amanda Tru will be an author added to my must-read list. This book is a stand-alone, as are all the books in this series.

Let me know if you read it and what you think of it!

Have a blessed day in the Lord,

Review ~ To Steal a Heart | The Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency 1 | Jen Turano

Paperback, 352 pages

Published November 17th 2020 by Bethany House Publishers

After a childhood as a street thief, Gabriella Goodhue thought she'd put her past behind her until a fellow resident at her boardinghouse is unjustly accused of theft. In the middle of breaking into a safe that holds the proof to prove her friend's innocence, Gabriella is interrupted by Nicholas Quinn, the man she once considered her best friend—until he abandoned her.

After being taken under the wing of a professor who introduced him into society and named him as heir, Nicholas is living far removed from his childhood life of crime. As a favor to a friend, Nicholas agreed to help clear the name of an innocent woman, never imagining he'd be reunited with the girl he thought lost to him forever.

As Gabriella and Nicholas are thrown together into one intrigue after another, their childhood affection grows into more, but their newfound feelings are tested when truths about their past are revealed and danger follows their every step.

Read an excerpt HERE.

Purchase: Christian Book

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My Review ~ 4 STARS

In classic Turano fashion, To Steal a Heart is a funny, heartwarming tale filled with mystery and slightly (okay, maybe more than slightly) crazy antics. I do enjoy the way this author is able to combine unfortunate circumstances and comedy to a degree that I never feel too overwhelmed by emotions. It’s entertainment, pure and simple.

Because this is the first book in a new series, there are a lot of characters. Even though I had a little trouble keeping them all straight in my head, I still recommend this to fans of historical fiction.

I received a copy from the author and publisher. No compensation has been received.

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Drop a comment and let me know if you've read Jen's books. If not, how about letting me know what you're currently reading?

Have a blessed day in the Lord,

Review ~ Joy to the World: A Regency Christmas Collection

Paperback, 336 pages

Published October 13th 2020 by Kregel Publications 

Inspirational Regency romance with a Christmas twist from three best-selling authors

In Joy to the World, three popular romance authors come together to offer a heartwarming collection of holiday Regency romance. Based on lines from a beloved Christmas carol, these three novellas have depth, faith, and satisfying stories all packed into the perfect length for readers to curl up and take a brief break from their holiday busyness.

"Heaven and Nature Sing" by Carolyn Miller

Two music lovers, deeply devoted to each other, were on the brink of engagement when family circumstances drove them apart. How can they ever overcome both their obligations and their fears to find their way back into each other's arms?

"Far as the Curse Is Found" by Amanda Barratt

One winter night, a woman struggling to provide for her illegitimate child encounters a scarred veteran of the Napoleonic Wars on the streets of London. Can love conquer the darkness of two broken pasts?

"Wonders of His Love" by Erica Vetsch

A Scots portrait painter finds work at a noble manor house over the holidays. He never imagined he'd fall in love with the emotionally frozen widow there. Now he wants nothing more than to thaw her heart. 

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My Review ~ 4 STARS

Carolyn Miller’s Heaven and Nature Sing is a sweet second chance romance. Fans will enjoy a lyrical reuniting of George and Edith. 3 stars

Amanda Barratt’s Far as the Curse is Found is one of the most brilliant novellas I have ever read. I was spellbound the entire time and couldn’t put it down. 5 stars

Erica Vetsch’s Wonders of His Love is simply delightful. Watching Cilla and Hamish break the class barrier, excellently done. And it didn’t hurt to see Marcus and other beloved characters again. 4.5 stars

I highly recommend this collection to Regency fans. You’ll be swept off your feet!

I received a copy of the book from the publisher. No compensation has been received.

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Let me know if you've read this or other Christmas stories this season. Or which ones you plan to read in December. :-)

Have a blessed day in the Lord,

Review ~ A Haven for Her Heart (Redemption's Light #1) by Susan Anne Mason

Paperback, 368 pages - Bethany House Publishers - Oct 13, 2020

Homeless after being released from a women's reformatory in 1939 Toronto, Olivia Rosetti is taken in by an angel of mercy, Ruth Bennington. The two discover they share a painful past and together decide to open a maternity home for troubled women.

Despite the success of the home, Olivia is haunted by her inhumane treatment at the reformatory and the way her newborn son was taken from her. She feels undeserving of love--until she meets businessman Darius Reed. Although his attention makes her heart soar, he can never learn of her past.

Greek widower Darius Reed is determined to protect his daughter from the prejudice that killed her mother. He'll ensure her future by marrying a woman from a respected Toronto family. But when Darius meets Olivia, he's immediately drawn to her beauty and compassion.

Can love prove stronger than prejudice and past mistakes? Or will Olivia's secrets destroy any chance at a future together?

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My Review ~ 4 STARS

Spasms wracked Olivia's chest as tears slowly slid down her face onto the pillow. "I can't do it. I can't take any more pain."

Susan Anne Mason has woven a tale of heartache, sorrow, and love that was difficult to read at times because of the subject matter. I knew she was going to bring beauty from ashes but I had no idea that my emotions would be so deeply invested in the lives of these characters. Born out of a horrible experience, Olivia Rosetti helps start a maternity home for unwed mothers with Ruth Bennington, an endearing older matron who stole my heart.

“…life goes on, whether you want it to or not. Right now, you probably think it’s preferable to shut yourself off and exist in a state of numbness. I did that successfully for a very long time. The problem, however, is that you’re not actually living.”

Darius Reed took a while to burrow into my affections but once there, he settled quite nicely. A widower with a young daughter, he is determined that she won’t grow up facing the same prejudices he did. In his quest for a different life, he almost loses the opportunity to make real change.

A Haven for Her Heart has multiple layers and when the characters stories are fully revealed, they envelope both sorrow and joy. Olivia is Italian and Darius is Greek, which I enjoyed a lot. It is always fun to be introduced to different cultures. This is an inspirational story well worth reading.

I received a copy from the author and publisher. No review was required. No compensation received.

Read an excerpt HERE.

Have a blessed day in the Lord,

Rachael Farnsworth-Merritt Reviews ~ Nothing Short of Wondrous (American Wonders #2) by Regina Scott

Paperback, 336 pages

Published October 20th 2020 by Fleming H. Revell Company

It is 1886, and the government has given the US Cavalry control of Yellowstone. For widowed hotelier Kate Tremaine, the change is a welcome one. She knows every inch of her wilderness home like the back of her hand and wants to see it protected from poachers and vandals. Refused a guide by Congress, Lieutenant William Prescott must enlist Kate's aid to help him navigate the sprawling park and track down the troublemakers. But a secret from his past makes him wary of the tender feelings the capable and comely widow raises in him. When her 6-year-old son is kidnapped by a poacher who wants the boy to guide him to the place where the last of the Yellowstone bison congregate, Will and Kate must work together to rescue him, save the bison, and protect the park. In doing so, they may just find that two wounded hearts can share one powerful love when God is in control. 

 

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Rachael's Review ~ 3.5 stars

A lovely story of hope and second chances. I’ve never been to Yellowstone. This book sure makes me wish I had. The characters are wonderful and incredibly well portrayed. The story is a beautiful one with a strong faith and hope message...one of learning and growing. The scenic view that a God created is definitely the star of the book, and its beauty and treasures are well described. A book I thoroughly enjoyed reading. 

 I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Guest Reviewer; Rachael Farnsworth-Merritt 

Rachael is a homemaker, wife, mother, homeschooler, and disciple of Christ who enjoys crafting, simple money saving tips, and loves farm life. She is also an avid book reviewer and blogger.

Rachael Farnsworth-Merritt Reviews ~ Burden of Proof by Davis Bunn

Paperback, 320 pages

Published November 3rd 2020 by Fleming H. Revell Company

Three weeks after his twenty-third birthday, Ethan missed the chance to save his brother's life when he was murdered on the steps of the courthouse in Jacksonville, Florida. Ever since that fateful day, Ethan has sensed a deep disconnect between the man he should have been and the one he has become. His days play out a beat too slow, his mind replaying the scene of his failure again and again.

But when his brother's widow appears, asking for his help in uncovering what was really behind his brother's death, Ethan is stunned to hear that she and her late husband were involved in a much larger case than he knew--one that threatens the global power structure. As Ethan joins the search for answers, he will enter into his own past--and discover a means of redeeming his future.

Bestselling and award-winning author Davis Bunn invites you into a world of intrigue as a man held captive by his failure learns how to move forward with hope.
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Rachael's Review ~ 3 STARS

This author has a wide range of genres...I’m not sure what this one is called, but it includes time travel. This type of time travel was totally different than any other to which I have been exposed.

The plot is a fascinating one, and it really kept me engaged. The mystery part was well done. I didn’t find myself thoroughly connected with the characters. I felt like I wanted a bit more there, but I was glad to see the characters grow from the beginning.

What really stuck with me was the talk of doing things for the “eternal.” None of us are guaranteed tomorrow so each day should be spent on those things that have eternal consequence.

It had a rather abrupt end, characters felt distant, and I was disappointed in the lack of any spiritual content. However, I did finish this in one sitting because it was somewhat fascinating, and the plot/mystery kept me plenty engaged ( and because I’m a ridiculously fast reader which does bother me at times.) If you have read the book, I would love to hear your thoughts. This might be an interesting book for a book club as I think it does provoke thought...that was the best gift this book gave me.

Guest Reviewer; Rachael Farnsworth-Merritt 
Rachael is a homemaker, wife, mother, homeschooler, and disciple of Christ who enjoys crafting, simple money saving tips, and loves farm life. She is also an avid book reviewer and blogger.

Review ~ The Anne of Green Gables Devotional: A Chapter-by-Chapter Companion for Kindred Spirits by Rachel Dodge

Devotional Inspiration Especially for Kindred Spirits

 

The Anne of Green Gables Devotional offers lovely inspiration that explores the theme of God’s love and faithfulness through the pages of the classic L. M. Montgomery novel, cherished by generations of readers. Each reading corresponds with a chapter from the book and invites you to embrace God’s redemptive plans for your life as His very own adopted daughter in Christ.

 

This beautiful 40-day devotional includes original artwork throughout, and each reading includes examples from the novel, scripture, life application, prayers, and discussion questions perfect for groups, book clubs, or personal reflection. It’s perfect as a personal read or gift for a bosom friend!

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My Review ~ 5 STARS

Fans of Anne Shirley will absolutely adore this devotional, gaining insight into the heart of a lonely little girl and the people who came to accept and love her for who she was. You’ll see how beloved characters change and grow and how faith in the Lord is woven throughout a timeless classic story. And the illustrations are beautiful!

Each day’s offering is simple and yet filled with truth of Scripture. I delighted in every moment reading these wonderful devotionals. Remember this lovely rendering is meant to be used as an enrichment tool, not as a replacement for the Word of God.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. No compensation was received.

Have a blessed day in the Lord,

FREE Regency ~ Beauty and the Beast Retelling ~ Kindle Edition

Beauty and the Baron: A Regency Fairy Tale Retelling (Forever After Retellings Book 1) 

A penniless maid determined to save her father, a broken baron bent on isolation, and the undeniable draw between them that could lead to happiness—or disaster. 

Rose Sinclair has run out of options. With her father in prison and their bookshop sold to pay his debts, she has no choice but to turn to Henry Covington, the Baron Norcliffe. But the baron has more than earned his harsh reputation, and Rose must face his wrath in order to save her father—and herself.

Since the deaths of his parents, Henry Covington has isolated himself from society, ensuring the solitude of his estate with his deliberate callousness. However, when the beautiful Miss Sinclair appears on his doorstep, begging for a chance to repay her father's debt to him, a moment of weakness finds him offering her a position—as a maid in his own house.

They both soon learn that first impressions are not to be believed. Henry is surprised—and intrigued—by Rose's optimistic charm, while Rose slowly uncovers Henry's true self, his compassion concealed behind the pain of loss and betrayal. But when a shadow from Henry's past returns, their newfound hope is tested. They must decide for themselves who to trust and what they will risk for their happily ever after.  

Beauty and the Baron is a Regency retelling of Beauty and the Beast. It is a sweet/clean romance novella, and is Book 1 in a series of Regency retellings. The stories can be read in any order. 

Book 1: Beauty and the Baron by Joanna Barker

Book 2: The Captain and Miss Winter by Sally Britton

Book 3: The Steadfast Heart by Arlem Hawks

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I loved this story so much when I read it back in July! 

I hope those of you across the pond can get this book for free as well. :-)

 Have you read a good Regency lately? If so, drop a comment. 

You know I love to get book recommendations.  

~ Have a blessed day ~ 

Morning on the Bay

Normally on Sunday, my husband and I would be at church but this past week, since we knew he was going to have to work most of the day, we decided to drive down to the end of our road and enjoy a few minutes of tranquility on the water. 

For us, there is a unique feeling when we stand at the waters edge and listen to the call of the gulls, the gentle lap of water against pilings, and the occasional sound of a fish jumping.

With all of life's craziness, I hope you take time to listen for the still small voice of the Lord... 

and be at peace, my friend.

Review ~ The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus by Jaime Jo Wright

 

Paperback, 391 pages

Published September 1st 2020 by Bethany House Publishers

In 1928, Bonaventure Circus outcast Pippa Ripley must decide if uncovering her roots is worth putting herself directly in the path of a killer preying on the troupe. Decades later, while determining if an old circus train depot will be torn down or preserved, Chandler Faulk is pulled into a story far darker and more haunting than she imagined.

Purchase: Amazon

I am NOT affiliated with any vendor. Links are for your convenience only. 

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My Review 5 STARS!!!

Jaime Jo Wright never ceases to amaze me with her split-time writing! The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus is chilling and thrilling and will take you on the craziest ride.

I’m not a big circus fan but on paper, I can totally go there. I read it at night time and have to tell you it was a bit creepy. I may or may not have startled a few times and shut the book quickly, looked around and then opened it back up. :-)

He would always be there.
Watching.
Watching her.
He was her Watchman. But more than that, she belonged to him.

The characters are well-written and captivating, the scenes incredibly descriptive. You will feel like you are personally experiencing every nuance. And if you enjoy suspense that makes your heart race, then this is the book for you!

I received a copy of the book form the author and publisher. No review was required. No compensation received.

Review ~ Point of Danger (Triple Threat 1) by Irene Hannon

Paperback, 384 pages

Published October 6th 2020 by Fleming H. Revell Company

Radio talk show host Eve Reilly is used to backlash from her pot-stirring on-air commentary and interviews, but now it seems a disgruntled listener is resorting to more than angry words to express their displeasure. When a suspicious package arrives on her doorstep, Eve turns to law enforcement for help.

Police detective Brent Lange can't find any evidence to link the string of unsettling incidents that follows, but he's convinced they're connected. As the harassment grows more menacing, it becomes clear someone wants Eve's voice silenced--permanently.

But unless he can track down her foe, fast, the gutsy woman who is willing to take risks for what she believes--and who is swiftly winning his heart--may not survive.

Purchase:

Amazon

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Sticky tabs are mine ;-)

My Review 3 STARS

As I was making afternoon tea, I thought Eve Reilly, the heroine in Point of Danger, needs a good cup of hot tea to help her de-stress after the week she's had! It’s a wonder she survived all the high stakes drama but she’s got plenty of experience with overly dramatic people calling into her radio talk show and venting about politics and other controversial topics.

The story has a quick pace, snappy dialogue, and romance. The plot line is easy to follow but not elemental. Hannon drew me into the story in spite of it being very political and reading like a conservative news show on paper. It wasn't what I was expecting so I was a bit disappointed. That being said, I would be interested in reading the next book in the series in hopes that it won't reflect what's taking place in our society at the time.

A copy of the book was provided by the publisher for this review. No compensation received.

HaPpY Release Day, Ronie Kendig & Soul Raging (The Book of the Wars 3)

Talk about an adrenaline fueled finale, Soul Raging is filled with non-stop action and wondering just who in the world is the bad guy?! Is it gonna be Leif? Oh, please, I hope not!!!

But, you know....

Then there's Mercy. And Cell. Oh no! Is Cell gonna be okay? 

I sure hope so because he needs a novella. hint hint ;-)

 

But back to Leif because you know...he is the one on the cover. ;-)  He's in love with Iskra and desperately hopes to be a family one day with her and Taissia, her daughter. And yet...

**I'm really not very good at trying to do something creative for a book release but I tried. haha**

My Review

4.5 STARS

As always, Kendig has created a masterful plot line that kept me on the edge of my seat. There were times I was sure a beloved character was a traitor and times I thought a traitor might turn out to be a decent sort. In the end, Soul Raging is a satisfying conclusion to The Book of the Wars series.

I recommend Soul Raging to Ronie Kendig fans, and those who enjoy military fiction with a slice of romance. This is the third and final book in the series though so in order to fully grasp the dynamics of plot, characters, and setting, you should read these books in order.

An electronic copy from the publisher through Netgalley was used for review purposes. No compensation has been received. 

Sometimes, the only hope is the enemy.

Leif Metcalfe is done waiting for answers and seizes control, a move that comes with a high price and a deadly risk: teaming up with the enemy. He can only hope that what he uncovers will heal the wounds he's inflicted on those he loves.

Iskra Todorova believes Leif is on a collision course with death and knows firsthand the irrevocable cost of that path to the soul. While trying to protect her daughter and intervene with Leif, Iskra is forced to set her sights on the man behind the evil organization ArC--Ciro Veratti.

Torn apart by injuries and opposing views on how to handle Leif's act of treachery, team Reaper hunts one of their own. The only thing they agree on is not stopping but starting the final battle prophesied in the Book of the Wars.

Available NOW:

Amazon

~Happy Reading, Y'all~

Review ~ Night Fall (Nighthawk Security 1) by Susan Sleeman

 

She faces dangerous situations all the time…

Olympic downhill skier, Harper Young, knows what it’s like to look danger in the face. After all, she does it every time she races down a ski slope. She’s fine with that danger and even excels under the pressure, winning Olympic gold. And as a governor’s daughter, she’s familiar with receiving threats from the general public. But when a stalker turns his sights on Harper, she possesses zero skills to protect herself.

But she has no idea what lurks in the shadows.

Former Navy SEAL and ATF Agent, Aiden Byrd of Nighthawk Security is well versed in protection skills and knows the dangers she faces. Problem is, there’s an instant attraction between Aiden and Harper, and Aiden has to fight hard to remain professional. As the stalker grows bolder and tries to end Harper’s life, Aiden’s only hope in keeping her safe is to deny his feelings. Something that borders on impossible. 

Purchase:

Amazon

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My Review

4 STARS!!!

 

Tight writing, fabulous pacing, and well-developed characters, all make Night Fall an intriguing romantic suspense. Harper Young faces life head on but when it comes to a stalker, she’s going to depend on Aiden Byrd and Nighthawk Security to keep her safe. I was on pins and needles several times while reading this book. Sleeman is a pro at weaving realistic suspense and the romance thread is just as heart thumping. I also appreciated a good level of wit in many scenes.

I’m looking forward to the next book in this series. I recommend Night Fall to fans of contemporary romantic suspense containing solid faith elements.

I received an electronic copy of the book from the author. No review was required. No compensation received.

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If you enjoyed my review, please consider going to Goodreads and Amazon and 'liking' my review there.

Thanks!!!

God bless you,

Anne