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Powell's Staff:
Five Book Friday: In Memoriam
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Every year, the booksellers at Powell’s submit their Top Fives: their five favorite books that were released in 2023. It’s a list that, when put together, shows just how varied and interesting the book tastes of Powell’s booksellers are. I highly recommend digging into the recommendations — we would never lead you astray — but today...
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Brontez Purnell:
Powell’s Q&A: Brontez Purnell, author of ‘Ten Bridges I’ve Burnt’
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Rachael P.:
Starter Pack: Where to Begin with Ursula K. Le Guin
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Customer Comments
DianFlow has commented on (31) products
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue
by
Jaime Jo Wright
DianFlow
, March 31, 2024
In Night Falls on Predicament Avenue, Jaime Jo Wright does what she does best—pens an emotive, mesmerizing dual-timeline suspense that intertwines around a creepy, old house on Predicament Avenue. Two young women a century apart, struggle with a myriad of emotions including social anxiety, fear, and grief—as they investigate two unsolved murders involving 322 Predicament Avenue. There were so many twists and turns, I got dizzy! . . . and good luck figuring out who the perpetrators are. I read so many suspense I'm usually close to guessing the who-dun-its, but this time—not. even. close. This book is a fairly dark, poignant read, with a smidgen of romance and a HEA—and as always the author includes the path to redemption and deliverance through faith in God. *I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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Sandcastle Inn: A Hope Harbor Novel
by
Irene Hannon
DianFlow
, March 12, 2024
That does it! I'm officially moving to the magical, small town of Hope Harbor, Oregon—with its quaint coffee shops, tasty restaurants, a Bohemian vibish bookstore, gorgeous secluded beaches, and even a delicious taco stand! Anyone care to go with me? The malodorous meet-cute between the two main characters was less than romantic to be sure, but who knew Matt Quinn would clean up so well?...certainly not Vienna Price! The two put their heads together to restore a floundering B&B in a limited amount of time...Matt, however, has a successful veterinarian practice in CA and Vienna a lucrative career in Denver and a month's R&R is all they can spare to regroup. But the peaceful, small-town allure of Hope Harbor has a way of digging its hooks in and not letting go. Filled with charming, wise characters such as Charlie, the master taco maker, Vienna's mother, Bev, and the bantering priest and minister whose quips are sure to bring a smile, Hope Harbor is a refuge of healing for hurting souls. Be sure to book a room in the Sandcastle Inn for a visit—you may not want to leave! *I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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Cold Threat
by
Nancy Mehl
DianFlow
, January 10, 2024
Wow! Once again masterful author, Nancy Mehl, has written a brilliant, chilling suspense that is absolutely unputdownable! I was totally mesmerized as I tried to solve the mystery behind the evil mastermind, aka The Snowman—responsible for a series of murders spanning 20 years. The dynamics between best friends and private investigators, River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are not only proficiently adept, but their humorous quips and banter helped to lighten an otherwise dark plot. I'm also sensing a burgeoning flirtation going on, so we'll see in Book 3 if this dynamic duo ever moves out of the friend zone or not. I particularly enjoyed the snow-covered Christmassy atmosphere—just not sure I'll ever look at a snowman the same way again! 😳 Also a beautifully written, compassionate story of the plight of some foster children who get lost in the system, PTSD victims, and redemption from severe guilt...I predict many an award for Cold Threat! I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.
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A Winter by the Sea
by
Julie Klassen
DianFlow
, November 18, 2023
4.5 stars In 'A Winter by the Sea' we once again return to the seaside resort fishing village of Devonshire—replete with its bathing machines, tourists, balls, and visiting royalty! I simply adore Julie Klassen's descriptive Jane Austen-ish voice...and completely forget everything else as I totally immerse myself in Sidmouth and the lives of these intriguing characters! Join the Summers sisters at Sea View Inn as they find themselves hosting members of the royal family's staff—as old love resurfaces, secrets abound, and burgeoning affections and betrayals occur. I knocked off 1/2 a star because I felt the romance was too rushed at the conclusion making it seem less passionate and exciting, but who am I to criticize the great Julie Klassen? Splendidly descriptive and impeccably researched...I can't wait to read Book 3! By the way, this can be read as a standalone as the author does an excellent job of recapitulating. However, I suggest you read 'The Sisters of Sea View' first to become better acquainted with this lovely family! *I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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On Moonberry Lake
by
Holly Varni
DianFlow
, September 22, 2023
4.5 stars! What a delightfully unexpected debut by masterful storyteller, Holly Varni! Whether it's the beauty of falling leaves in autumn or the shimmer of a small-town snowscape, Varni skillfully uses descriptive imagery to ensnare her readers—and quirky, eccentric, charming characters to keep them there. I really didn't mesh with Cora Matthews to begin with. She appears stuffy and apathetic in my opinion. However, I found a kindred spirit when I learned she didn't like coffee, just the smell of it. lol She inherits her family's lakeside lodge but isn't quite sure she's up to the task of restoring it to its former glory or even wants to stay in Moonberry Lake. The residents in this quaint town step up to the plate to help, but man, are they weird! And loving, talented, and selfless—family who teaches Cora a lot about herself. I deleted 1/2 a star because I skimmed the tombstone scenes...something about those left me spiritually unsettled. However, this was an amazing novel that emitted unladylike guffaws, girly girl tears, and a whole lot of introspection. "It was amazing how, in stepping out of her comfort zone and getting to know people who lived a bit “outside the box,” she was discovering a new self. A better self." *I received an ARC from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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Million Little Choices
by
Tamera Alexander
DianFlow
, September 16, 2023
My poor heart is in an emotional upheaval since 'A Million Little Choices' shattered it in a million little pieces...and I'm uncertain whether I'll get them all picked up again any time soon. Author Tamera Alexander not only writes fascinating historical fiction but has more than proven she can also write contemporary—in this dual-timeline about two women who live in the same Southern Victorian mansion centuries apart. Two women who share the same problem... spousal betrayal and a marriage that's broken beyond repair. As Claire Powell stumbles upon an old journal written by Charlotte Thursmann in 1863, she uncovers some startling truths about the woman—and herself. If you're looking for sweet and fluffy and a book that leaves God out of the equation, this one isn't for you. However, if you enjoy a story that challenges you—is thought-provoking and focuses on deep issues such as infidelity, forgiveness, and the restoration power of God—give this novel a try. Two quotes taken from this novel, "Life is brutal" "But God!" pretty much sums it up. Unputdownable! *I received an ARC from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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Wildflower Falls
by
Denise Hunter
DianFlow
, September 07, 2023
~4.5 stars~ Ok, so this one started out a bit slow for me. Perhaps because I couldn't get enough books about horse ranches some years back and I read so many I tired of them. Not the author's fault, but solely my own. However, when the combustible kissing scene set my heart aflame, I began to sit up and take notice of the amazing, strong characters and the beautifully written storyline. Typically it doesn't take a kiss for me to do such a quick turnaround—however, this was not just your ordinary lip lock. It was a heart-stopping, what's going to happen next, full of possibilities kiss—followed by plenty of angst and tears—the characters' and my own. Hunter compassionately touches on some tough issues...including alcoholism resulting from PTSD and infidelity that could tear a family apart. Come join Charlotte, Gunner, and the rest of the clan in Riverbend Gap as they navigate their relationships through rough waters, er, rather—down bumpy horse trails I should say! *I received an ARC from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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Summer in the Spotlight
by
Liz Johnson
DianFlow
, August 09, 2023
'Summer in the Spotlight' is an entertaining conclusion to the Prince Edward Island Shores series with a delightful cast of characters—both onstage and off! Haters of the dreaded love triangle, have no fear. It's fairly obvious who the spunky teacher and drama coach, Kelsey Ahern, will lose her heart to...but the journey to romance is often quite rocky! The reticent, yet kind facilities director, Levi Ross, teams up with Kelsey to produce a benefit show to rebuild the Victoria Playhouse which was destroyed by a hurricane. But when a handsome, charming meteorologist takes an interest in Kelsey and her show, will Levi step up his game? Or will it always stay in the friend-zone between the two? A captivating novel about family, overcoming fear, and faith in your dreams! Available at your fave bookseller! *I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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The Legacy of Longdale Manor
by
Carrie Turansky
DianFlow
, July 28, 2023
'The Legacy of Longdale Manor' is Carrie Turansky's first attempt at writing a dual-timeline novel and what a lovely accomplishment! Although the stories are 100 years apart she has flawlessly interwoven beautiful settings and integrated captivating characters whose lives somehow touch one another. Both heroines in each timeline are beset with secrets and difficult choices that haunt them—AND handsome, unpredictable men in their lives. For different reasons each strong, yet vulnerable damsel has trust issues—and rightfully so. Perhaps many an answer to their inner healing may be found in a one-hundred-year-old journal. 'The Legacy Of Longdale Manor' is a truly memorable novel that kept me on tenterhooks the entire time—replete with unforeseeable events, romance, forgiveness, and redemption. Beautifully written, Carrie Turansky! “Time is fleeting, the days fade fast. Treasure faith and family, only they will last." I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.
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In the Shelter of Hollythorne House
by
Sarah E Ladd
DianFlow
, July 10, 2023
Although this Regency wasn't my favorite of Sarah E. Ladd's, I still revelled in my visit of the beauty of the moors and the gothicy nuance of Hollythorne House. Charlotte Prior is an impulsive, rash, hot-tempered heroine—one who never did endear herself to me. However, as long as she did to hero, Anthony Welbourne, that's all that matters. Anthony is everything a woman could ask for...stalwart, kind, courageous, and easy on the eyes. Although romantically involved four years prior, they separated without rancor until business circumstances reunite them. Danger lurks around every corner and I'll confess to skimming a bit. I guess I like a few romantic, glamorous balls thrown in to my Regency reading. lol A beautifully descriptive novel that can be read as a stand-alone—be sure to include In the Shelter of Hollythorne House on your wishlist! *I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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Cold Pursuit
by
Nancy Mehl
DianFlow
, July 07, 2023
Intense. Mesmerizing. Captivating and intriguing—describes this unputdownable suspense by masterful author, Nancy Mehl! This chilling, fascinating story digs down deep into the complex mind of a murderer...why he kills and who—and the masterminds who piece it all together. I especially enjoyed the rapport between best friends and private investigators, River Ryland and Tony St. Clair. Their humorous banter, mutual respect, compassion, and harmonious professionalism was beyond refreshing. However, I hope their friendship morphs into something more throughout the series. So far though, just friend zone. I found this thrilling book nothing short of brilliant. Proficiently written with never-ending excitement, twists and turns, and a redemptive, faith thread throughout...be sure to put Cold Pursuit at the top of your wishlist! "If God could love her through her anger and rejection of Him, she knew He would never abandon her. She felt safe in God's love." *I was given a complimentary ARC of this book by the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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The Thing about Home
by
Rhonda McKnight
DianFlow
, May 21, 2023
~4.5 Stars~ What a pleasant surprise this novel by new-to-me author, Rhonda McKnight, turned out to be! When I first started reading I assumed it was a rom-com which I'm not too terribly fond of. A heroine who's a superficial social media influencer and fashionista?-not really my cup of tea. But a heroine who runs to South Carolina's Lowcountry to search for long-lost relatives and experiences the true essence of her culture—family, history, a glimpse into the faith of her ancestors, Southern comfort foods, and sweet tea? "Now we're talking!" says this South Carolinian gal. What a beautifully written, inspiring story of a highly popular, somewhat spoiled young woman who learns to work the land, cook native fare, serve others, and perhaps uphold a legacy...IF she has the courage to let go of the past. Looking forward to more from this author! "There’s no fountain of youth. The secret of staying young is walking, water, and vegetables.” Granna Ida *I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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Man of Shadow and Mist: Volume 2
by
Michelle Griep
DianFlow
, May 17, 2023
Nobody does Gothic fiction quite like Michelle Griep (unless it's Julie Klassen!)—and this is no exception with its haunting mixture of Jane Eyre, Dracula, Rebecca, Dragonwick—and an eerie mansion with a secret and a dark, brooding, enigmatic hero. Rosa Edwards, the innocent town librarian, finds herself attracted to an alluring, mysterious man who the superstitious townsfolk think is cursed, Sir James Morgan. I really liked this spunky little heroine and so does James—in spite of his many misgivings. Is their romance doomed from the start? Griep's research is in-depth and impeccable...as is her impressive writing style and a strong faith message interspersed throughout. Nicely done! *I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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Counter Attack
by
Patricia Bradley
DianFlow
, May 03, 2023
Wow! 'Counter Attack' certainly checked all the boxes I look for in an electrifying suspense novel! So cleverly written, tough as nails, yet vulnerable characters, plenty of twists and turns, a smidgen of romance (not too mushy, guys 😉), and a whodunit I didn't see coming. I suspicioned the killer for a fleeting moment, but hey...isn't everyone a suspect in a suspense? Although a serial killer story always has a certain measure of creep factor, 'Counter Attack' wasn't as graphic as some—more of a cat and mouse game involving taunting of the protagonist, the dark web, and chess. Nicely done, Patricia Bradley! *I received a complimentary ARC of this book by the publisher and was under no obligation to write a positive review.*
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The Secret to Happiness
by
Suzanne Woods Fisher
DianFlow
, April 24, 2023
What a blissful treat to return to the charming, seaside town of Chatham, Cape Cod—with bright red geraniums in window boxes, tourist shops, the aroma of freshly mowed lawns, blooming hydrangeas, and salty sea air. And let's not forget The Creamery with the tastiest ice cream in town! I an delighted that the main characters, Dawn and Marnie, return from 'The Sweet Life' Book 1—but this can easily be read as a standalone. Dawn's cousin, Callie comes to visit, but whatever happened to the vivacious, energetic, young woman who has always bested Dawn at everything?...their entire lives. Broken, lost, and depressed, Callie unwillingly agrees to go to a class on happiness led by gloomy Bruno Bianco. Is there a key to unlock Callie's depression or is happiness a delusional, unattainable fallacy? I wasn't thrilled by Callie's relationship with Bruno. At all. The romance fell flat for me...or should I say the lack thereof. Thankfully, there was more than one courtship going on! 😀 Fisher includes many helpful tips for the reader who is struggling with adverse circumstances, anxiety, and fears that inspired me immensely. Loving this series! *I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a positive review.*
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Windswept Way: A Hope Harbor Novel
by
Irene Hannon
DianFlow
, April 14, 2023
Huge, contented sighs escape my lips as I return to the sights, sounds, and smells of the charming, small town ambience of Hope Harbor—boats gently bobbing in the marina, planters filled with colorful flowers lining the sidewalk, quaint shops with bright awnings, and the savory aromas of Charley's food truck. History lover, Ashley Scott, arrives in Hope Harbor to buy Edgecliff—a haunted Victorian mansion—and on her first visit runs into a masked, tall, muscular man wielding a chain saw. Not a great meet-cute, that's for sure! When Ashley hires the reclusive, enigmatic, Jon Gray to landscape Edgecliff, they both learn some valuable, insightful life lessons...courtesy of our old Hope Harbor friend, Charley, and two humorous, bickering clergyman. What a beautiful, well-written story! I'll admit to shedding a few tears in spite of myself. How cruel people can be!—but so very thankful for the Ashleys and Charleys of this world who bring light into people's lives and have the amazing ability to see beyond physical attributes to the heart! "But in a town with the name of Hope Harbor, perhaps anything was possible." *I received a complimentary ARC of this book via the publisher and was under no obligation to write a positive review.*
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When Tomorrow Came
by
Hannah Linder
DianFlow
, March 09, 2023
~4.5 stars~ I do believe author Hannah Linder has a new reader fan! I derived a lot of pleasure from reading her debut book 'Beneath His Silence' and thoroughly enjoyed the Gothic atmosphere of this intriguing novel as well. Brother and sister, Heath and Nan Duncan, are characters you'll love instantly—their problems and pain will become yours, their joys likewise. A little confusion ensued for me as the story switched back and forth between both main characters and it took a moment to realize which one the author was addressing. However, I certainly enjoyed being able to follow the lives and loves of each protagonist. Replete with affluent, opulent estates of the upper crust, gorgeous ballgowns, mystery, danger, breathtaking romance, and unrequited love, 'When Tomorrow Came' is one not to be missed. *I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a positive review.*
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The Vanishing at Castle Moreau
by
Jaime Jo Wright
DianFlow
, March 04, 2023
Wow! This haunting novel has all the Gothic feels, descriptive imagery, sheer visual poetry, and enthralling, enigmatic characters that fans of Jaime Jo Wright have come to expect. Of course, it has its heebie-jeebie and "things that go bump in the night" moments (it wouldn't be a Wright novel without that), but is also filled with hope, light, and just a smidgen of romance. A dual-timeline set predominantly in a prodigious, creepy old manor, The Vanishing at Castle Moreau lends truth to the idiom "things are not always what they seem" as the reader is met with many a mysterious twist and turn—some quite fanciful! I found some things a bit far-fetched, but it's fiction meant for entertainment, and the rich message within its pages as relevant today as it was a century ago. An unputdownable novel guaranteed to keep you up past your bedtime! *I received a complimentary ARC of this novel from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a positive review.*
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Cold Light of Day
by
Elizabeth Goddard
DianFlow
, February 15, 2023
~3.5 stars~ 'Cold Light of Day' is an intense, action-packed suspense set in the normally peaceful, small-town community of Shadow Gap, Alaska. The author beautifully utilizes descriptive imagery to describe the lofty, snow-capped mountains, glaciers spilling into the waterways, and forests exploding into a multiplicity of colors—oh, how I long to visit! Autumn Long is a strong woman and the capable police chief of Shadow Gap—the chemistry and romantic tension between her and hero, Grier Brenner, is so palpable you can cut it with a knife. I never got too attached to the other characters—they were simply just.....there. I'm not a huge admirer of a lot of "shoot 'em up bang bang", but 1/3 of the way through the book there were already quite a few bullets whizzing by...some hitting their targets. However, truly a well-written, exciting read that appears to be a fan favorite. Looking forward to her next novel which promises to be just as exhilarating! *I received an ARC from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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Cold Light of Day Missing in Alaska Book 1
by
Elizabeth Goddard
DianFlow
, February 15, 2023
~3.5 stars~ 'Cold Light of Day' is an intense, action-packed suspense set in the normally peaceful, small-town community of Shadow Gap, Alaska. The author beautifully utilizes descriptive imagery to describe the lofty, snow-capped mountains, glaciers spilling into the waterways, and forests exploding into a multiplicity of colors—oh, how I long to visit! Autumn Long is a strong woman and the capable police chief of Shadow Gap—the chemistry and romantic tension between her and hero, Grier Brenner, is so palpable you can cut it with a knife. I never got too attached to the other characters—they were simply just.....there. I'm not a huge admirer of a lot of "shoot 'em up bang bang", but 1/3 of the way through the book there were already quite a few bullets whizzing by...some hitting their targets. However, truly a well-written, exciting read that appears to be a fan favorite. Looking forward to her next novel which promises to be just as exhilarating! *I received an ARC from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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Novel Proposal
by
Denise Hunter
DianFlow
, February 02, 2023
~No Spoilers~ This is such a cleverly written, cute story—and a novel within a novel if that makes any sense. It will when you read it! I typically don't care for humorous books, however, I not only found myself laughing out loud, but also crying fat ugly tears because, well...you know all about that angst Denise Hunter has such a talent for writing. I totally identified with the heroine, Sadie, because we have so much in common. She loves the SC beach, books, kids, dogs, and never meets a stranger. Me neither—and many times like Sadie it's "open mouth - insert foot" time. lol She even built a free library on the beach and included a few of my favorite authors' books! Gotta love Sadie. And then, there's Sam. Perfect gentleman, easy on the eyes, Sam. However, neither he nor Sadie are interested in anything other than friendship. They team up together to solve a mystery, Sam needs a date to his cousin's wedding, and that's it. Or is it? This is a perfect beach novel to devour when you need a light, fun read. I especially enjoyed the romance writers' epigraphs at the beginning of each chapter! Be sure to put this romantic page-turner at the top of your wishlist! *I received an ARC from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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A Cry in the Dark
by
Jessica R. Patch
DianFlow
, January 30, 2023
4.5 stars Author Jessica Patch once again sweeps readers away on a chilling, hair-raising ride—full of twists, turns, and dark secrets in the forests of Night Holler, deep in the Kentucky hills! FBI special agent Violet Rainwater is a strong, beautiful heroine, who has never known love beyond her physical features. With no affection from her mother and an absentee father, Violet lives for her work and does her job well. Enter the handsome and kind, Det. John Orlando—who not only chips away at Violet's aloof exterior with his growing affection, but introduces God's love to her as well. Amidst the gross, evil darkness, will Violet find light and redemption for her love-starved soul? I pride myself in always discovering who-dun-its, but I think I may need to retire my arm-chair sleuthing. lol I had no clue! With all the creepy feels that will keep you looking over your shoulder...be sure to check out this spine-chilling suspense! *I received an ARC from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a positive review.*
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The Weight of Air
by
Kimberly Duffy
DianFlow
, January 06, 2023
~4.5 stars~ I was so conflicted when it came to rating 'The Weight of Air' by prodigious author, Kimberly Duffy. There's no doubt it is a compelling, intriguing, emotive read, and so beautifully written! However, is this book for everyone? Although the main characters are delightful and there were humorous moments and a HEA, there are some heavy issues that may cause emotional triggers in some people—such as suicide, postpartum and overall bouts of depression, and childhood abandonment. However, I was absolutely fascinated by the inner workings of the circus and how much time and energy went into training...not only to increase strength, but to prevent injury and grow in poise and flexibility. The little kid in me loved my trip to The Big Top—the astounding acts, diverse characters, and of course, the exotic animals. And the romance between the main characters was pretty sizzling! *I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*
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Honor Bound
by
Hallee Bridgeman
DianFlow
, October 07, 2022
Others highly recommended this book, but I was sitting on the fence—did I or did I not want to read it? Reason being, the military aspect is SO out of my comfort zone. However, the thoughts of a female missionary Dr. in an exotic setting finally won me over. Soon I was on a dangerous trek through the steamy African jungle—laden with mosquitoes, crocodiles, & hippopotami lurking underneath murky waters, cobras twisting around trees, and bullets flying everywhere! The characters are not only courageous, but able to joke in the face of danger, cry when vulnerable, and humbly pray when there's seemingly no way out. Captain Rick Norton, leader of the Green Beret team is our handsome hero...it doesn't get much more heroic than that! He can handle dangerous rebels, but meets his match in the feisty Dr. Cynthia Myers, who prefers serving those in war-torn Africa to the cushy, superficial life of the daughter to the vice president. Filled with exhilarating action, tender romance, and truly a book about modern day heroes and the sacrifices they make for our country every day—this is one novel I feel honored just to have read. *I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a favorable review.*
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Harvest Moon
by
Denise Hunter
DianFlow
, September 03, 2022
What an astounding conclusion to the Riverbend Romance series by multi-talented author, Denise Hunter! I'm not quite certain why she is dubbed as a writer of feel-good books, however, as this novel sent me on an emotional roller-coaster ride—breaking my heart in a 1,000 different pieces and gluing them all back together again. In 'Harvest Moon' Hunter writes about very real people dealing with messy problems and tends to delve into them a bit deeper than in previous books. Divorce, grief, dementia, and survivor's guilt to name a few. Precious little Emma and the return of the Robinson family (who we met in books one and two) help to keep things lively & full of humor, however. In spite of this being the end of a series, it also reads well as a stand-alone novel. A lovely, well-written story filled with hope, forgiveness, and family—be sure to order 'Harvest Moon' at your favorite bookseller! *I received an ARC of this book from the publisher & was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.*
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Last Way Home
by
Liz Johnson
DianFlow
, July 26, 2022
I was so anxious to devour another Liz Johnson Prince Edward Island novel—verdant, lush home of the delightful Anne of Green Gables—with all of its small hometown feels...replete with antique, pottery, and bakery shops oozing with delicious treats, that I overlooked a very important detail in the book description! The hero, Eli Ross, played for the NHL as in National Hockey League. Way out of my comfort zone...my motto always being "I went to a fight and a hockey game broke out." Definitely not a hockey fan, but Liz Johnson made it work and I found myself totally immersed in this electrifying sport! It started out a little slow for me and I found it difficult to connect with the heroine, Violet, as she was angry with Eli for something that was frankly none of her business. It wasn't long, however, before I began to enjoy their humorous quips, banter, and obvious chemistry...my eyes literally filling with tears as I learned of Violet's heartbreaking secret from the past. 😢 A poignant story of forgiveness, sacrifices, and broken lives finding redemption and healing—be sure to put 'The Last Way Home' at the top of your wishlist! "All you have to do is ask Him for help. Admit that you can’t do it on your own. When you do that, well, God moves in and starts smoothing out all those shattered and broken pieces. He’s just waiting for you to ask Him to fix them. Could it really be that easy?" (Quote from The Last Way Home)
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Her Darkest Secret
by
Jessica R. Patch
DianFlow
, July 14, 2022
3.5 stars As this is labeled Christian fiction & written by a Christian author I thought I'd list a few warnings. Granted these are very real issues, but some may offend gentle readers - 1) Talk about sexual orientation (a character is confused about his) 2) Quite a bit of graphic violence 3) Alot of mention of alcohol drinking by the characters 4) extramarital affairs (no graphic details) 5) Crimes perpetrated against minors (no graphic details) 6) Love triangle (they don't bother me, but some do not like them) I love Jessica Patch's suspense fiction and based on plot and characterization alone, I would have rated this much higher. Her Darkest Secret is a taut, suspenseful page-turner with a very brilliant plot and a great twist at the conclusion. The characters were super admirable, courageous, and oftentimes very humorous in spite of their chilling professions in the FBI’s Strange Crimes Unit. However, I felt as though I was inundated with so many sin-filled and controversial issues in one book—almost as though I'd watched a day's worth of news! lol Except drugs...thank goodness no drug crimes were mentioned! I appreciate the fact that the author includes a strong spiritual thread throughout and redemption for several of the characters. *I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a positive review.*
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Her Darkest Secret
by
Jessica R. Patch
DianFlow
, July 14, 2022
3.5 stars As this is labeled Christian fiction & written by a Christian author I thought I'd list a few warnings. Granted these are very real issues, but some may offend gentle readers - 1) Talk about sexual orientation (a character is confused about his) 2) Quite a bit of graphic violence 3) Alot of mention of alcohol drinking by the characters 4) extramarital affairs (no graphic details) 5) Crimes perpetrated against minors (no graphic details) 6) Love triangle (they don't bother me, but some do not like them) I love Jessica Patch's suspense fiction and based on plot and characterization alone, I would have rated this much higher. Her Darkest Secret is a taut, suspenseful page-turner with a very brilliant plot and a surprising twist at the conclusion. The characters were super admirable, courageous, and oftentimes very humorous in spite of their chilling professions in the FBI’s Strange Crimes Unit. However, I felt as though I was inundated with so many sin-filled and controversial issues in one book—almost as though I'd watched a day's worth of news! lol Except drugs...thank goodness no drug crimes were mentioned! I appreciate the fact that the author includes a strong spiritual thread throughout and redemption for several of the characters. *I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a positive review.*
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Heirlooms
by
Sandra Byrd
DianFlow
, July 01, 2022
Author Sandra Byrd has written an exquisite split-timeline exemplifying the true meaning of beauty, forever friendships, and the legacy we leave behind in the choices we make every day. What a treasure trove of various species of flowers and what their names signify, multicultural recipes, and vast droplets of wisdom are sprinkled throughout this poignant story. The main character, Helen Devries, is not a hero per se, but she is one in my book...in every sense of the word. A good nurse devoted to her career, she opens her home (and her heart) to another war widow such as herself, Choi Eunhee. What ensues is a loving friendship that spans a lifetime as each embrace their cultural differences and traditions—passing invaluable heirlooms from a well-lived life to future generations. How we live today is like a stone tossed into a stream..the ripples far-reaching and never-ending. Live and love well!
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(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
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Sunburst
by
Susan May Warren
DianFlow
, June 22, 2022
What a story and in two of my absolutely favorite settings—the lush, deep forests of Africa, with its tall locust bean trees and replete with all manner of wild baboons, monkeys, jaguars, and the lethal black mamba (EEK!)—to beautiful Alaska with its beautiful wildflowers and snow-capped mountains! I absolutely adored these heroic Kingstons...there's just something special about a series that's comprised of brothers—their camaraderie, amusing back and forth quips, arguments, and love—always that first and foremost. The relationship between tough as nails, beautiful Noemi Sutton and former Navy Seal, Ranger Kingston is well...let's just say complicated. When the two are forced into a traditional Nigerian wedding the big question of the day is "Do Nigerian weddings count?" A beautifully written novel filled with danger, excitement, romance, and humor...be sure to find out for yourself why everyone is buzzing with excitement about Susan May Warren's 'Sunburst'! *I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.*
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Free Fall
by
Nancy Mehl
DianFlow
, June 22, 2022
Brilliant suspense author, Nancy Mehl, has knocked it out of the ballpark...er, rather the amusement park, I should say—in this riveting, hair-raising adventure guaranteed to take the reader on a twisty, emotional roller-coaster ride that kept me on tenterhooks from the prologue! FBI agents, Alex Donovan and Logan Hart are once again in cahoots, searching for a serial kidnapper who is targeting women with similar physical attributes. Wondering if wig and hair dye sales escalated in VA during their search for this psychopath-just sayin'! The chemistry between Alex and Logan is almost palpable—the camaraderie between all the FBI agents is touching, humorous, and vulnerable—but nonetheless professional, intelligent, and tough. There's so much more I'd like to say, but those itty bitty things called spoilers stopped me dead in my tracks. Oops, scratch the word "dead." Yikes! Suffice it to say, I was tremendously impressed with the uniqueness and originality of this plot...yes, it has the creep factor we all love in suspense fiction, but none of the typical "dime a dozen" drug trafficking and terrorism issues I'm tiring of. I challenge you to try and put this book down—an almost impossible feat to be sure! An action-packed, eerie whodunit both men AND women will enjoy (just a smidgen of romance, guys)—'Free Fall' may just be my favorite Nancy Mehl novel yet!
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