Updated Review on Glamorous Illusions by Lisa T. Bergren

 

     I just got through rereading Glamorous Illusions, as I am preparing to start book 2!  I have to say that I think I love this book even more the second time around!  If you would like to read my previous review click - here.

    Even though I have read this book before (about a year ago), it still captured and held my rapt attention from the beginning till the end.  I alternated between sympathy, wonder, suspense and found myself grinning too much at times.  It is a thrilling and wonderful read.  It does leave you hanging so... have book 2 handy.
  
    Bergren not only creates wonderful characters you will delight in but also a good plot that brings you not only suspense, romance, drama but spiritual insights as well.  Cora, is trying to figure out exactly who she is... Is she all she has previously thought? Is she who others say she is? Or is she something more?  Will she find her true identity in Christ? Are the grand illusions hers or other's?

    I think there is a lesson to be learned that despite our circumstances, what other's say or think, or even how we feel at times, God always knows who we are!  His understanding of things and of us never changes.  Just as His love for us is steadfast and true.  God sees, He knows, He understands and has compassion on us.  God holds us up and He brings light to illuminate the darkness.  God is with us, before us and He is our rear guard... but always, always He is with us!

An absolute pleasure to read!

Two Destinies (Book 3, Secrets of the Cross Trilogy) by Elizabeth Musser

 

     A really good read!  I have to say that it was a little slow going at first but that is mostly due to the fact that there are several different story lines going on and ground work getting established in what is to come.  However, around chapter 11 things start converging and you will find it near to impossible to put the book down.

 

    You will be held in suspense wondering how things will work out not only for Rislene and Eric but for several others in the novel.  There is so much good spiritual food to feast and think upon in this book I won't even begin to try to cover it all.  But I believe that Musser beautifully portrayed the issues dealing with the homeless and of those Christians living in Algeria and even in France at this time.  The issues of women living in a Muslim culture and of those that become Christians, with all they face are brought to light in this well written and thoughtful novel.

 

     It is not a light and fluffy read but it is a worth while read.  I come away from this novel, happy to have read it, feeling as if I have learned something and encouraged...  Encouraged to let my life and light shine!  Bravo, Musser!

 

Coming Soon...

    I am currently reading Book 3 in the Secrets of the Cross Trilogy.  However, I just received Lisa T. Bergren's newest release, Book 3 in her series! Yay! I will be rereading Book 1, which I have already posted on & then digging into Books 2 & 3! I also have my hands on Lynn Austin's newest release!!! Good reads ahead!

Excited!

Two Testaments (Book 2, Secrets of the Cross Trilogy) by Elizabeth Musser

 

 

The saga continues in Two Testaments! If you have not read Book 1, Two Crosses then stop and read it first. We pick up in Book 2, shortly after where things ended in Book 1. There is certainly plenty of drama, suspense and spiritual food to keep the pages turning. This is not a light read but is a good read. I enjoyed learning about these places and the things that happened in history, sad as it may be.

The characters and plot will pull you in and open your eyes to things not just historically or morally but also to introspection. As the characters struggle with learning that God's ways are not ours. And even when our circumstances seem so dim and horrible, God is on His throne and He is good. Waiting on Him is hard but it is something worthwhile. But most of all looking to the Person of God and at His love. God does bring beauty from ashes, He heals and redeems. God is the One who does the impossible and His own story is a love story. A story about a God and His people... All this to say that if you are looking for a deeper read and one that will minister to you and feed your mind, as well as your soul - this is a good book for you!

Reflective & Engaging -

Two Crosses (Book 1, Secrets of the Cross Trilogy) by Elizabeth Musser

 

 

 

     Musser writes a story of depth, of history, of hope, love, forgiveness and faith.  Two Crosses, Book 1 in this series is dramatic, suspenseful, educational and pulls at your heart.  I am eager to begin Book 2, Two Testaments soon! I say this to let you know, you should have Book 2 handy because the saga continues!

 

     For some it may be harder to get into at first... as you will be reading the starting stories for several characters and gaining in your understanding of history during this time period and location.  For others you will jump right in and eagerly fly through the pages.  I assure you either way, once the story lines converge you will be hooked and held captive.

 

    There is a sweetness, honesty and freshness that you will find very likable in Gabriella Madison.  She is sure to find a place in your heart and not just her alone but many of the other outstanding characters placed in this novel.  There are parts that will hold you in suspense, as there are present threats and dangers lurking.  You will hope for those who are hurting and lost.  You will desire to see those who are doing good press on and step it up.  And you will get lost in the story and hope for the triumphant victory of those who fight for good.

 

    Musser has a way of blending in spiritual truths and insights that are so much a part of the story, telling, insightful and not preachy but reaching out to you in a soft and deeper way.  As usual, well written Musser! 

 

Get Cozy, Josey! (Josey, Book 3) by Susan May Warren

 

     Get Cozy, Josey! was a nice wrap up to the Josey series by Warren.  In Book 3, Josey has even more challenges coming her way... Besides keeping up with her twin toddlers, she will have to learn to live life in Siberia!  That includes having to pump her own water and having an outhouse.  What has her hubby, Chase gotten her into this time!

    I have to say that by book 3 I am thinking these two need to communicate a little better!  I just want to say to her - Josey, tell him how you really feel about it!  Their lack of communication will cause them both some trouble in book 3.  But of course every good story has to have something the characters need to learn or work through.

     Warren once again blends in real life frustrations, honesty, and plenty of spiritual insights to delight the reader.  I stayed up way too late last night desiring to finish this one and see how Warren would work things all out.  You won't be disappointed!

     So join Josey & Chase's journey as they get stretched, grow, love and learn in this wonderful conclusion.  Happy Reading!

Chill Out, Josey! (Josey, Book 2) by Susan May Warren

     This novel was delightful!  Honestly refreshing, humorous, engaging and filled with some wonderful spiritual truths.  Chill Out, Josey! picks up around the time that Josey & Chase tie the knot.  With most stories that is the ending but this is only the beginning of their adventure.  And why shouldn't it be!  Is our whole ambition to get to the wedding and then what... if we have built all our dreams on just the courtship and saying "I do" then we are pretty let down after that.  But really we should be excited about all God still has ahead of us... Things to learn, share, ways to grow together and serve.  But most of all we have yet to see what God has for us, what He intends to do through us and for us as a team. 

     Back to the story line... Josey and Chase are in for some big changes!  Things that will grow and stretch them and help them to see how great and big God's love is for them.  That love isn't about being perfect, or the Proverbs 31 wife but being the person and helpmate that God created you to be. 

     Josey's frustrations, hurts, and all that she experiences speaks honestly and hits home.  Marriage is not for the faint of heart.  Marriage is commitment, serving, sacrificing, loving and keeping your eye on the One who is always with you and never fails you. 

Thanks again to Susan May Warren for an encouraging, spiritual and often humorous tale!  Happy Reading ~

Everything's Coming Up Josey (Book 1) by Susan May Warren

 

 

 

     Warren has once again written a fun, witty, humorous, engaging story filled with all the good solid stuff (faith based) she mixes in all her books!  I love that when I put down a book written by Warren, I come away having been challenged to look more at my life, my faith, & my walk. 

 

     Everything's Coming up Josey is (I believe) Warren's first chick-lit novel.  It is both interesting & fun to journey with Josey as she goes to Russia as a Missionary.  Sure she may not always have her "ducks in a row" or do things quiet right but then how boring of a story would that be and how unrealistic!  We are not perfect people and we mess up... Life is messy and chaotic.  God however is perfect and consistent and He loves us through it all! 

 

     So if your ready for a little adventure, some romance and some time to learn via Josey what it means to have Christ live in you and to do the good things/works He has prepared for you to do then pick up the book and join the often humorous journey with Josey.  I have to say that if you enjoy this novel you should really look at her PJ Sugar series which I loved. Of course, I have really enjoyed all her books... So I don't think you can go wrong with a book written by Warren.

 

 



Rebellious Heart by Jody Hedlund

 

 

     Hedlund has once again brilliantly woven history, lively characters, romance and drama beautifully together. I believe she deftly captured the grumblings and circumstances of this time period which would lead our Founding Fathers to start the Revolutionary War. 

 

    Both of the main characters initially struggle with pride and looking to better their lot in life through marriage.  At times thinking of themselves and not of those with whom their choices they may hurt.  While Susanna at other times exemplifies kindness, thoughtfulness and even self-sacrifice towards others it is not always given to Benjamin Ross.  She also shows a strong sense of character, mostly in her desire to read and be educated.  But then at other times lets fear hold her back and has an inability to stand up to others, especially her mother.  As with any good story the characters must embark on a journey... A journey of spiritual, mental, moral and emotional growth.

 

     There is much to be said for this novel to recommend it, I do however not want to give too much away.  Let me suffice it to say that it is very well written, engaging and another keeper! I love to finish her novels and read the Author's Note section to see whom the fiction story was loosely based off of... Check it out for yourself!  While this was not one of my favorite books by Hedlund, I thought it still an excellent story.  Hedlund has not written a story yet that I have not enjoyed.  If you haven't read one of her novels before I HIGHLY recommend you check out her previous novels: The Doctor's Lady, The Preacher's Bride, Unending Devotion or A Noble Groom.

 



The Merchant's Daughter by Melanie Dickerson

Book Description:    

An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice. Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff---a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past. Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger. Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart.

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     The Merchant's Daughter is a captivating, retelling of the classic Beauty & the Beast story. Set in medieval times, this Christian fiction novel is both intriguing, heartwarming, engaging and sweetly romantic.  I found the characters, the setting & historical information well written and delightful. 

 

    And although Lord Ranulf, (the Beast) is scarred trust me you will have no problem finding him handsome as he finds a place not only in Annabel's heart but yours as well.  Truly a wonderful tale about true beauty, trust, forgiveness, sacrifice and love. 

 

     Dickerson brought forth things dealing with the Church, the bible and faith during that time that are both noteworthy and really add to the story... As she had the main characters reading and discussing the bible throughout the story, it brought forth truths to light & heart changes. 

 

     An absolute pleasure to read!  I believe Dickerson's writing is getting better with every book.  I look forward to her next release coming out later this fall!

 

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The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson

Book Description:
    

In author Melanie Dickenson's book, a young healer's apprentice named Rose believes she will never marry ... until she meets Lord Hamlin, the future ruler of her village. Hamlin is everything she could ever want---kind, understanding, and a man of faith---but her low station and the fact he's already betrothed to a mysterious woman makes their romance impossible. As Lord Hamlin seeks to find the sorcerer who cursed his future bride, Rose's life spins toward confusion. A creative retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty tale.

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         As stated above this is a retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty story.  It is a fairytale based story but it is written as if Sleeping Beauty happened without all the make believe stuff.  While I did find it an enjoyable read, I have to say that I didn't like it as much as the previous novel I read by Dickerson (The Fairest Beauty).  Still, a good read for a lazy day.

 

     In this tale you will see Lord Hamlin as noble, trustworthy, preserving and trying his best to be honorable and dutiful.  Rose is kind and has a servant's heart.  She struggles with feelings of being unloved and wanting to find a place where she belongs.   There is of course the battle between good and evil.  And the moral to the story is all about trusting & waiting upon God & His best for you.  So often when we don't, we rush ahead and get in the way... we mess up what God has already planned for us.  Waiting upon Him and the good He has for us is always best.  He never fails you and He never leaves you.

    I thought the characters were well written.  The romance and relationship between the first and secondary characters came across as both genuine and fresh. I did find the plot to be a little predictable.  Early on and throughout the story you could see where things were headed and the mystery wasn't ... Still I enjoyed the book and appreciated Dickerson's twist on the classic tale. Romance with faith packed in!

Love's Awakening (Book 2, The Ballantyne Legacy) by Laura Frantz

 

 

 

     I just finished reading another epic novel from Laura Frantz!  Wow!  Frantz eloquently woos you into her tale and leaves you many times holding your breath, waiting to see what will happen next.  Her study and grasp of history comes through her stories as if you are living and breathing in the time period.  The characters take on life and endear themselves to you.  The closer I got towards the end, I kept thinking - no, not yet! I am not ready!  I am thrilled that there is going to be a book three in this series but grieved that I have to wait a year for it. 

 

     I am sure that you will come away from ready this novel as moved, awed and delighted as I am.  Love, loyalty, faith, standing firm and doing what is right are all played out so beautifully in this story. The suspense and danger found as an abolitionist in Pennsylvania during this time will have you on the edge of your seat and in awe of those who lived out their beliefs.  In the Author's Note, Frantz mentions that "Every name and incident involving slaves in Love's Awakening  is taken from the historical record." And though the Ballantyne Family is not real, there were those who were courageous, passionate and did their part to assist others to safety and freedom. 

 

     There is so much more to this story, more to recommend it but I don't like to give things away... Needless to say this is well worth the time to read and reread if you like!

 

Still Captivated!

 

    

Love at Any Cost (Book 1, The Heart of San Francisco Series) by JulieLessman

     If you read my previous post "I confess..." then you will know that I just couldn't hold out any longer!  I love reading books by Julie Lessman and this one did not disappoint!  I was excited & nervous about the new series... Hoping that I would love this new family and all it's characters as much as I did the O'Connor Family series. Wondering if there would be any similarities in the characters and storytelling.  I had nothing to worry about, Lessman created a new series that stands on it's own.

   I really liked spunky Cassidy and "pretty boy" Jamie, not to mention the rest of the family!  I am SO excited about the future books... There are so many secondary characters in this book that just grab your attention and your heart.  One story I am really looking forward to seeing played out is that of Cassidy's Aunt and Uncle!  Should be VERY interesting!

     The one thing I wasn't too crazy about was when Cassidy dove in to her Texan vernacular... it wasn't bad but it was just hard to rectify the words with the image of her I had in my mind.  Again, this wasn't that big of a deal. 

     What I did love was the sparks, the witty banter, the friendships and family ... all of it combined into a page turning frenzy (especially towards the end, where you will find some surprises)!  I also, found myself with a permanent grin on my face!  It really was wonderful!  I stayed up way too late last night because I just couldn't put it down.  And even once I did I had trouble going to sleep because I was still thinking about it and wondering about what would happen next with these characters in future books!  Yay! More thrills and romance to come!

     Lessman wove a nice thread of faith into the story.  One of the main lessons was about trusting God.  Letting go & letting God be the One in control of your life and circumstances... Verses how we many times try to control & manipulate our lives and circumstances. When we do this, we are not trusting God, not believing in His love nor His promises.  He does care for & provide for His children. He loves to show up & do big things for us, if we will step back & let go. All He ask is for us to have the faith of a mustard seed, childlike, trusting faith... He will move mountains.

Super excited for book 2 and 3 and many, many more!

Licensed for Trouble, Book 3 (PJ Sugar Series) by Susan May Warren

Book Description:
    

PJ Sugar receives shocking news that she’s inherited the Kellogg family mansion. Though she has no idea why, the timing is perfect—PJ has clearly worn out her welcome at her sister’s house. Unfortunately, the mansion is in shambles, and PJ is short on cash. Rescue comes in the form of Max Smith, a mysterious handyman willing to trade his services for PJ’s investigative skills. But PJ already has a full docket with cramming for her PI license and nurturing a growing romance with her boss, Jeremy Kane. Can she take on Max’s case without dropping the ball?

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    I loved this series!  I am so sad it is over... Please someone tell me there is a 4th book I am not aware of!  Well, a girl can wish... I have so enjoyed PJ's journey, her adventures, quirks, hopes, curiosity and drive.  She is someone that just brings life to the party.  Book 3, finds her figuring out how to learn to be who she is...not forsaking her past but not letting it run her present or future.  Instead she is learning what it means to be adopted, grafted into a new family.  To be a heiress, a child of God.  And that when God joins you to Him you are someone new... the you, you were always meant to be in Him.  The old has passed away and behold, God makes all things new... and that includes us!

    I don't want to give too much away but I will say that I enjoyed the relationship struggles, highlights and more with PJ trying to figure out things between her & Boone verses her & Jeremy.  It certainly kept things interesting and add some nice sparks to all the fun!  One line that Jeremy said in the book, was something to the effect of... I'm not sure if I am stealing you from Boone or if he is stealing you from me.  Woozier! 

    Warren is so gifted at creating not only characters that seem to live and breath, but also stories and plots that keep the pages turning; humor and most of all spiritual depth.  I have come away really thinking about the spiritual food found in each of these novels.  So not only was I blessed with stories that just left me grinning and eager for more, but also with something to bless me in my walk, pointing my eyes and heart back to my Hero!  Thank you, Susan May Warren for sharing your heart, your stories and for blessing us! (And if you do decide to write another PJ story please let me know.)


 

Double Trouble, Book 2 (PJ Sugar Series) by Susan May Warren

Book Description:

     With one solved case under her belt, PJ Sugar is ready to dive into her career as a private investigator. Or at least a PI’s assistant until she can prove herself to Jeremy Kane, her new boss. Suddenly PJ’s seeing crime everywhere. But is it just in her head, or can she trust her instincts? When she takes on her first official case—house-sitting for a witness in protective custody—Jeremy assures her there’s no danger involved. But it soon becomes clear that there is someone after the witness . . . and now they’re after PJ, too.

 

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     I flew through this book yesterday... so good!  PJ is endearing and it is one adventure after another with her.  With sparks flying, humor, grace and more you are sure to be delighted as PJ stumbles, flies and finds her footing in this book. I am so eager to start book 3, but at the same time sad too, because I know it will mean the end of this series... unless Warren has a continuance up her sleeve I am not aware of! 

 

     At the end of the book, in the Author's Notes, Warren wrote this and I think it beautifully portrays PJ and what the heart of this novel is about:

"...I hate my own mistakes, my own tendencies to get in over my head. I hate looking backward with a wince. 

     I brought this frustration to the page in Double Trouble - in PJ's desire to be the Greatest PI on the Earth and her tendency to both over commit and see trouble wherever she turns. I wanted her to fall, to scrub her chin on the ground, and to taste failure. Because only then could I tell her what I long to hear myself - that God doesn't expect us to be perfect or not to make mistakes. He longs to forgive us... and then empower us.

     "Draw with confidence to the throne of grace, because I promise you'll find mercy." I love that message, because it's when I am most distraught that I must remember God is the best friend I can have.  He is not going to love me less after He saves me than before! He longs to reach out and pull me close, despite my perceived ugliness, because He is crazy about me, as hard as that is for me to believe sometimes."

 

Okay, get ready, get set... to open this book and be completely glued to it for the next several hours!  Adventure, mystery, romance & grace await you on the pages!

 

Delighted!

 

 

 

 

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Nothing but Trouble (PJ Sugar Series #1) by Susan May Warren

Book Description:

 

It's not fair to say that trouble happens every time PJ Sugar is around, but it feels that way when she returns to her home town, looking for a fresh start. Within a week, her former teacher is murdered and her best friend's husband is arrested as the number-one suspect. Although the police detective investigating the murder—who also happens to be PJ's former flame—is convinced it's an open-and-shut case, PJ's not so sure. She begins digging for clues in an effort to clear her friend's husband and ends up reigniting old passions, uncovering an international conspiracy, and solving a murder along the way. She also discovers that maybe God can use a woman who never seems to get it right.

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I finished this book last night and I am still thinking about it ... and itching to start book 2! PJ Sugar is sure to capture your heart and attention.  This story is funny, I caught myself laughing out loud several times.  It is also a cute, witty, engaging, adventurous tale!  PJ is putting on a new hat... a supersleuthing one!  And she just seems to find trouble or maybe it finds her, no matter how hard she tries to avoid it. 

 

Part of what is great about PJ Sugar is that in her most people will see a little of themselves.  She struggles with her past and trying to not let it define who she is now.  Part of her struggle is she just doesn't feel she fits in any where.  There are lessons to be learned about identity... Are you trying to find it in your job? Your family? Your relationships?  When we need to realize our true identity is found in Christ alone.  He is the One who made us and knows us best.  There is freedom in being His beloved, special child.  Freedom in being who He created you to be.

 

I loved what Warren wrote about PJ and her story in the Author's Note at the end: "She's the girl that changes her mind, always hopes for the best, is always discovering that she is just a little different from everyone else. PJ is us. And that's good news. Because God loves PJ. He loves her messiness and her impulsiveness, her heart bent towards others, the hope that fuels her actions. And He has a plan for PJ - one that includes her weaknesses as well as her strengths."   That is what we need to remember - that we don't have to be perfect for God to love us.  The Bible tells us that not only did He first love us but He loved us so much that He died for us while we were still steeped in our sin. God has a plan for you and me... to use us! 

 

Another high note for the story is that the romance isn't a forgone conclusion!  I like that there is more than one guy of interest in this story and can't wait to see how it all works out!  So pick this one up and get ready for an adventure that will have you grinning, laughing at times, and flying through the pages!

 

Yay!

 

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Undercover Pursuit (Missions of Mercy series, Book 3) by Susan May Warren

Book Description:

The only way to get security agent Luke Dekker to a wedding? An undercover mission as groomsman. He'll bust the groom, a drug cartel heir, before anyone can say "I do." Then Luke can escape all this love and romance nonsense—and the too pretty bridesmaid/agent assigned as his "fiancée" for the weekend. Until Luke discovers that sweet, vulnerable Scarlett Hanson isn't his contact. Isn't an agent. Isn't trained for the high-stakes mission now trapping them both. And worse, Luke's falling for her—which is not part of the assignment.

 

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I enjoyed the premise of the story... it's cute, fun and an adventure!  Just imagining a "normal" gal, a book worm even, getting pulled into all this intrigue and action is exciting!  One of the themes in this book is to forget the past and to press on to what lies ahead.  To press into Jesus and His love, grace and mercy.  Accept & believe in His forgiveness and forgive yourself too!

 

It was interesting the battle Luke was caught in, needing Scarlett's help and at the same time wanting to push her away and keep her safe.  Meanwhile, Scarlett struggles with seeing her own worth and not believing that others could value her for herself.  Lessons to be learned in trusting and letting perfect love cast out all fear. 

 

This was a very nice wrap up to the series! Exciting, fun and romantic! I enjoyed the cameo appearances of the other characters from previous books.  I am just sad to see it all come to an end! 

 

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Mission: Out of Control (Missions of Mercy series, Book 2) by Susan May Warren

Book Description:

Brody "Wick" Wickham is a former Green Beret turned security agent—with a 100 percent mission success rate. No way is his new assignment changing that. Even if it's protecting a diva American rock star while she's on tour in Europe. Except Veronica "Vonya" Wagner isn't just a beautiful celebrity used to having her way—she's the daughter of a U.S. Senator. And she's hiding a dangerous secret. When Wick discovers what's at stake, how far over the line will he go to keep them both alive?

 

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Trouble with a V, as in Veronica "Vonya" Wagner... Wick sure has his hands full keeping up with & protecting "Vonya" not to mention trying to guard his heart along the way.  Veronica isn't sure who she really is any more, she seems to have lost her true self some where along the way.  She wears all these different faces, one for her fans, one for her family and on and on.  Veronica has a lesson to learn in what it means to be true to herself and to experience the freedom that comes in being who God created you to be. 

 

We too can be guilt of this "double life" mentality.  Being a different person at work or home, or even church than we are ... Trying to show people the face we want them to see, who we want to be.  And trying to hide the mistakes and failures in our lives, real or imagined.  Because for most of us we long for approval.  The great thing about Jesus is that He died for us while we were still sinners.  All we have to do is turn to Him, trust Him and embrace His grace.  We can't earn it or measure up because we are not perfect people but we do have an awesome, holy God who will wash us clean, forgive us and accept us.  Not only that but He is ready to transform us and our lives into something beautiful... a story, an adventure He created us for to share with Him.  Pretty awesome stuff!

 

Any way this was a really good, short, suspense filled romance!  I enjoyed flying through the pages and as always it left me filled with excitement and smile upon my face!

 

 



Point of No Return (Missions of Mercy, Book 1) by Susan May Warren

Book Descriptions:

An American boy and a warlord's engaged daughter have disappeared—together—in an Eastern European border country. Only one man can find them in time to prevent an international meltdown—Chet Stryker. But Chet is taken aback when he realizes the boy is the nephew of Mae Lund, Chet's former flame. When Mae insists on rescuing her relative herself, Chet knows he has to protect her from the enemy on their trail. Yet can he protect himself from falling for Mae again?

 

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Point of No Return, grabs you from the start and doesn't let up till the very end!  A great faith based, suspense filled, romantic, thriller!  Warren opens up a new series bring a crossover character, Mae Lund (& a few others make an appearance too) from her Mission: Russia series.  I loved that the characters and story just continues! Yay! I am one happy fan.

 

Near the beginning of the series there is a scene right before Victor & Gracie's wedding.  When I was trying to figure out the order of the books for Missions of Mercy and reading reviews, I stumbled across one where the reviewer was upset because the wedding wasn't played out in the book.  I have to say that I don't think that is a big deal at all.  First of all this book isn't about Vicktor and Gracie, this is a story about Mae Lund and Chet Stryker.  Second of all I didn't need to read about them saying their vows, just knowing that they did and the next steps following that for them were quiet sufficient to make me happy.  That said on to my review...

 

I zipped through this one... reading it in snatches when I had time through out the day yesterday & then finishing it last night.  It was gripping, with a nice electric zip between Mae & Chet.  Reading about Chet's struggles with his own mistakes and his journey to resting in God's grace was such a great picture of the freedom Christ has for us... we often battle accepting it and holding on to it.  Thankfully God never lets us go and His grace is enough! Warren used a great biblical example of this in the scripture quote she gave  at the opening of the book (about Jacob from Genesis 32).   Sometimes we do have to wrestle with our faith.  As we keep holding on to God and wrestling through it with Him, though the wrestling may cause a wound, if we don't let go of Him, He will bless us and we will be strengthened in our faith. Believe in God's promises and in His unfailing love and grace for you!

 

All around a great read!  I am so excited to have found Warren's Romantic Thriller sets!  Starting off with the Team Hope series, then Mission: Russia and now this one... it has been one thrilling read after another!  I have to admit I am dreading (just like with each book) coming to the end of this series.... I hope to see more books like this from her.  I will add that one thing I love about Warren is her ability to create great characters with depth to their stories and relationships... this book was a short one for her... Even though I thought it was great, I would have loved for it to be one of her longer stories.

 

 

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Wiser Than Serpents (Mission: Russia, Book 3) by Susan May Warren

Book Description:

Into a nest of vipers

Her sister had vanished, trapped in a human slavery ring. To find her, FSB agent Yanna Andrevka arranged her own kidnapping into Taiwan's sex-trafficking trade. And found herself with no way out.

Until Yanna discovered an ally deep undercover: Delta Force captain David Curtiss. He was after the kingpin of the Twin Serpents, the organized crime syndicate that had Yanna--and hundreds of others--in their clutches.

With opposite agendas, David and Yanna had to rely on each other to outwit their cold-blooded enemy.

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Loved it! What a great wrap up to the series! I am fresh off the last page and just giddy with how much I enjoyed the book, the series and the characters!  Bravo, Susan May Warren! This story packs a punch... adventure, suspense, romance with some great chemistry, love, sacrifice, friendships, struggles, faith, on and on... some really great material that just keeps the pages flying! 

 

David's struggle with loving Yanna and trying to show her God's love through him was both sweet and at times heartbreaking.  I loved the scripture references that Roman used to encourage David and found it to be an encouragement to me as well. 

 

The icing on the cake was having Vicktor, Gracie, Roman and the crew all back together again.  Okay, I could go on and on here but let me just say... Read this series you will not be disappointed!  Also, the great thing about this book is that Warren is giving proceeds from the book to an organization that helps fight human trafficking as well as helping the victims. 

 

Thrilled to the last page!

 

 



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Sands of Time (Mission: Russia, Book 2) by Susan May Warren

Book Description:

An inexplicable ailment was striking down the children of Russia; in less than forty-eight hours, American medical missionary Sarai Curtiss had watched two young patients slip away, and she feared she might have an epidemic on her hands. Yet how could she help anyone in the middle of a violent coup? The new leadership had demanded all foreigners leave the state--on pain of death.

Unwilling to leave her clinic, but unable to combat her enemies alone, Sarai had to join forces with an unlikely ally--Roman Novik, the rebel Cobra Captain who broke her heart. Faced with a corrupt government, a brutal military and the truth of their own deepest feelings, it would be a race against time to save the lives on the line--and an entire country at risk.

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Warren definitely has found a place in faith based, romantic-suspense type thriller novels! Another great read with some good truths to chew on!  My only lament is that I want MORE... good thing there is still a book 3 to read!

 

What can I say except that Warren is very good at crafting characters and situations that seem real and draw you in.  Both Roman and Sarai find themselves learning what it really means to die to self and live for Christ.  There is plenty of meat here that I think we can all relate to as we struggle at times with our own pride, trust issues and more.  Sarai's struggle with judging Roman for not being what she pictured the ultimate man of God to be... her description, not God's, is something I think we can all pause and look at.  Do we in the church also judge others for not serving God in the way we deem best or our view of the highest calling?  Hasn't God created us to be a body of believers, each of us doing our part.  We can't all be an eye, if we had no feet how would we walk... well, you get the point.

 

Loved the adventure, spice and fast paced read! 

 

 





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In Sheep's Clothing (Mission: Russia) by Susan May Warren

Book Description:

On the run from the murderer of her best friends, missionary Gracie Benson is all alone in Siberia. What she doesn't know is that she has in her possession a medical secret that will save millions of lives--or cost hers. Trying to keep her alive is an FSB agent, a man pursued by his own demons, including a killer who destroyed his father's life. He and Gracie find themselves in a decades-old mystery of betrayal and Cold War secrets. Only with the help of their friends--a group of Americans and Russians committed to freedom--can they outwit the old guard...and save Gracie's secret, as well as her life. 

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Get ready to RUN... Literally and figuratively through this book!  You will be racing through the pages, as the characters & their story leap to life, on the run to save not only their lives but others.  A fantastic, romantic thriller that does not disappoint! 

 

My only regret is that the story came to an end... I can only hope to see more of Gracie and Vicktor in the rest of the series.  If you are looking for a thrilling adventure story that has some sweet romance, and encouraging faith/truth scattered through out then this is a story for you!  Just be prepared to pick it up and be unable to put it down, with book 2 handy as soon as you finish!

 

 



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