The Heiress of Winterwood (Whispers on the Moors, Book 1) by Sarah E. Ladd

From the beginning this novel captured my attention and intrigued me. Delightful, suspenseful and sweetly romantic. Ladd takes you to another place in time and reminds you of the sweet delights found in first love.... a look, a simple touch or just the nearness of the one who has captured your attention and leaves your pulse racing.

For fans of Jane Austen or Julie Klassen, this is sure to be a novel for you! I found the characters to be endearing and their story had me at times grinning, hopeful, on the edge of my seat and unwilling to part with it for long. I plan to read more by this author!

The Promise of Peace (Scottish Crown, Book 4) by Carol Umberger

This book had parts that had me glued to the pages and other parts where I was skim reading. So although I liked it, it just didn't wow me. Still it had good characters and life lessons on faith and love. Overall, found this to be a very enjoyable series. I would give the whole series a 4 Star rating.

The Mark of Salvation (Scottish Crown, Book 3) by Carol Umberger

A wonderful story, encouraging faith, hope and love. While this story did not set as fast a pace of reading as the first two books in this series did, I enjoyed it and the characters. Book 3, brought back characters from the previous books and introduces you to the main, male character for Book 4.
In truth, I found the last part of the book to be my favorite part and meaningful as well. This has been a wonderful series and I look forward to starting Book 4 soon.

The Price of Freedom (Scottish Crown, Book 2) by Carol Umberger

Book 2 in the Scottish Crown Series held me captivated and delighted within its pages. Another well thought out story that takes place during a very interesting time in Scottish history. The characters are easy to warm to and the story woven holds you in anticipation of what is to come, to the point where you cannot easily put it down. I highly enjoyed this read and think I may have liked it even more than the first book. Either way, both were what I would call a very good read.

Looking forward to the next book in this series!

Circle of Honor (Scottish Crown Series, Book 1) by Carol Umberger

This story drew me in and held me captive, reluctant to take my eyes off of it for a moment and eager to return to it's pages as quickly as I could yesterday. It was such a good read that I was able to read it in what would amount to a very long afternoon read. Filled with secrets, tragedy, intrigue, hope, forgiveness, and lessons on the healing power of love, I found it to be a moving and spellbinding read. With in it's pages were well developed characters and a plot full of the things that drive a story from a good to a really great read. The hero of this tale is a man of honor and one you are sure to admire, his strength not being dependent just upon his own skill but upon God. The are plenty of villains, those vying for power and possession of what they believe is their due. But just as there is evil in the world, there are those ready to take a stand for what is right, to hold to faith and to see God deliver them from the hand of evil (just as the example of Daniel was given in the story). I finished this story well satisfied with the read, encouraged and with a smile upon my face.

Now, in response to several reviews I came across when trying to decide if I want to read this series or not... One such review stated that the book was too graphic in the details of the rape. In response to this I must say that I am puzzled as to how they came to such a conclusion. As the barest of details were given. Just enough to let you know the situation but by no means were you taken moment by moment through the rape. I felt the author handled it very well, and it was more of a fade to black style of writing not just with this but also later on in the story.
Another reviewer was displeased because this was listed as a historical romance and felt it should be listed only as a romance as the story itself wasn't filled with historical details but in minimum. To this I am puzzled as well because this is a FICTION book. It is set in a historical time period and it does have some historical truths peppered in, but this is not meant to teach us a history lesson. For those wanting such the author does make reference to books used for researching her story that she found to be educational and an entertaining read, I would look into those. I can not see taking stars off for a book that is fiction for such as this.

To summarize my thoughts, this was a worth while and compelling read. It was both clean and encouraging. A very good read.

A Tailor-Made Bride by Karen Witemeyer

Book Description:
Jericho "J.T." Tucker wants nothing to do with Coventry, Texas's new dressmaker. He's all too familiar with her kind--shallow women more devoted to fashion than true beauty. Yet, except for her well-tailored clothing, this seamstress is not at all what he expected. 
Hannah Richards is confounded by the man who runs the livery. The unsmiling fellow riles her with his arrogant assumptions and gruff manner while at the same time stirring her heart with unexpected acts of kindness. Which side of Jericho Tucker reflects the real man? 
When Hannah decides to help Jericho's sister catch a beau--leading to uproarious consequences for the whole town--will Jericho and Hannah find a way to bridge the gap between them?

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If you are searching for a light hearted book, sure to make you smile, then look no further. This book has a delightful characters and a sweet, romantic plot.  Perfect for a lazy afternoon or beach day!

However, I will say this book does have a few slow parts...I will admit to some skim reading. Though it wasn't totally enthralling, it wasn't boring either. I have loved several of Witemeyer's other books but just found this one to not be quite on the same level as those. But still it is a perfect light hearted read when you need one.

It Had to Be You (Christiansen Family, Book 2) by Susan May Warren

Book Description:
Eden Christiansen never imagined her role as her younger brother Owen’s cheerleader would keep her on the sidelines of her own life. Sure, it feels good to be needed, but looking after the reckless NHL rookie leaves little time for Eden to focus on her own career. She dreamed of making a name for herself as a reporter, but is stuck writing obits—and starting to fear she doesn’t have the chops to land a major story. If only someone would step up to mentor Owen . . . but she knows better than to expect help from team veteran and bad-boy enforcer Jace Jacobsen.

Jace has built his career on the infamous reputation of his aggressive behavior—on and off the ice. Now at a crossroads about his future in hockey, that reputation has him trapped. And the guilt-trip he’s getting from Eden Christiansen isn’t making things any easier. But when Owen’s carelessness leads to a career-threatening injury and Eden stumbles upon a story that could be her big break, she and Jace are thrown together . . . and begin to wonder if they belong on the same team after all.

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Warren is truly a gifted writer. Her stories have depth, her characters leap to life and she weaves in truths about God and faith into a story where it isn't stand out in your face but it is the essence and flow, the breath of the story... beautiful!

This story totally captured me.  From the beginning I was into it, and then I was engrossed and flying through the pages. It was so hard last night (very late last night) to finally have to put it down half way through and go to bed. This story had me chuckling out loud at some points, grinning at others, touched and tearful at one point. I came away blessed by the message and story, encouraged and uplifted. Really looking forward to the next novel in this series!

Oh and by the way, the prequel novella (included with purchase) is WONDERFUL!!! Loved reading about the romance that started it all.

Stranded (Alaskan Courage, Book 3) by Dani Pettrey

Book Description:
When her friend vanishes from a cruise ship, reporter Darcy St. James isn't satisfied with their explanation that she simply left her job of her own accord. Something isn't lining up, and Darcy believes the only way to find the truth is to put herself in Abby's position. Within days, Darcy learns her friend wasn't the only person to disappear mysteriously. Last summer, a woman vanished under almost identical circumstances.

Gage McKenna has taken a summer-long stint leading adventure excursions for the passengers of various cruise lines that dock for a few days of sightseeing. He's surprised to find Darcy working aboard one of the ships, investigating a troubling report. Something sinister is going on and the deeper they dig the more Gage fears they've only discovered the tip of the iceberg.

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Pettrey grabs you from the beginning and has you devouring the pages, until the bittersweet moment when you reach the end and realize that Book 4 isn't due out for months! AGH! Seriously, I believe Pettrey's books just continue to get better and better. Although I really liked book one, it wasn't the thrilling page turner that books 2 & 3 were for me.  The suspense & mystery got better with those books and her continued ability to write such good characters that have you hungering for more of their story in each consecutive book is a gift.  

She easily writes faith, love and hope into her novels without being preachy and all the while conveying truth.  I cannot wait for Book 4 (yes, I have pre-ordered it) ... I love how Pettrey sets you up in each of her books for the following story's main characters' one that follows. All I have to say is don't start this series unless you're prepared to be captivated. Pettrey has a new fan in me.

Shattered (Alaskan Courage, Book 2) by Dani Pettrey

Book Description:
A Thrilling New Romantic Suspense from the Genre's Newest Star

Piper McKenna couldn't be more thrilled that her prodigal brother, Reef, has returned to Yancey, Alaska, after five years. But her happiness is short-lived when Reef appears at her house covered in blood. A fellow snowboarder has been killed--but despite the evidence, Reef swears he's innocent. And Piper believes him.

Deputy Landon Grainger loves the McKennas like family, but he's also sworn to find the truth. Piper is frustrated with his need for facts over faith, but he knows those closest to you have the power to deceive you the most. With his sheriff pushing for a quick conviction, some unexpected leads complicate the investigation, and pursuing the truth may mean risking Landon's career.

With Piper waging her own search, the two head deep into Canada's rugged backcountry--and unexpected complications. Not only does their long friendship seem to be turning into something more, but this dangerous case is becoming deadlier with each step.

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Mystery, suspense, romance, humor and some lessons in faith are all jam packed in this enthralling novel by Pettrey! I can't tell you enough how delightful her characters and their lively banter are... Not only that but she kept me guessing as to who the real murderer was through a large chunk of the book.

I think Pettrey may be peaking with each new book but I will have to read Book 3 to know for sure... That shouldn't be too much of a strain.  Okay, so pick this one up, you won't be disappointed!

Submerged (Alaskan Courage, Book 1) by Dani Pettrey

Submerged is an entertaining read, filled with some wonderful characters!  There is a little suspense, some romance, interesting dialogue & interaction between the characters, and an interesting twist late in the story. All in all, a enjoyable read, that left me with a smile upon my face.

The suspense is light, it won't give you nightmares or such (at least it didn't for me).  This story has already gotten me pumped up to read book 2.  You will find that the main characters of book 2's story start laying some interesting ground work in the midst of this one!

I would say that I liked this one. There was some nice spiritual truths peppered in on forgiveness, love, sacrifice, and second chances. Overall, a good read.

Five Days in Skye by Carla Laureano

This novel grabbed me from the beginning! I loved the witty banter, flirting and relationship development between the two main characters. Yes, the large majority of this novel happens in the five days on Skye. Part of me really longed to see this novel continue on, or wanted a nice epilogue. Not to say it didn't finish well, but to say that I just wasn't ready for it to end!

If you really enjoy a good book, where there is lots of dialogue between the main characters, then you will find this is the book for you. A truly enjoyable read, filled with wonderful characters, faith lessons, romance and more. I can't wait to read more by this author!

Deirdre (The Fires of Gleannmara, Book 3) by Linda Windsor

Windsor writes a beautiful, adventurous & captivating conclusion to The Fires of Gleannmara series! This story and it's characters had me eagerly devouring the pages, and staying up way too late last night to do so!

Our hero and heroine encounter many hardships and assaults, the likes of which surely try ones faith. The question is will you trust Him in all circumstances? Is God truly your Refuge, Hope and Shield? These are things that will be played out in the story, along with several other insights into faith and love.

I will admit this story needs better editing ... I am not sure if the transition into an Ebook caused the problem or not. But there were several places where the period was left off at the end of a sentence. A little confusing at times but it did help that the next sentence still had the first word in caps. Really not a big deal and easy to overlook, especially as the story was so wonderfully told. Bravo on a wonderful series and great conclusion!

Riona (The Fires of Gleannmara, Book 2) by Linda Windsor

Another delightful tale by Windsor! I have to admit that at first this story didn't quiet captivate me, as Book 1 did. However, further in the characters & story not only engaged me but had me chuckling at some points, grinning & clutching the book at others. Seeing as how I started it yesterday afternoon and stayed up to finish it last night (reading it not in one sitting but several), it obviously ended up making up for the slower start.

Windsor not only writes a good tale, but one peppered with solid truths to encourage you in your walk & faith. I can't wait to start Book 3!

Happy Reading,

Maire (The Fires of Gleannmara, Book 1) by Linda Windsor

This is the first book I have read by Windsor but I plan on reading more! This is a delightful, imaginative and engrossing tale. Filled with drama, faith, history, action and romance, it is sure to keep the pages flying.

 I really enjoyed how Windsor took biblical tales and used them in the story. Bravo, on something not only entertaining but also thought provoking. To add to this tale she gives us a hero, who is not only swoon worthy, but even more his character, faith and love inspire.  The characters are well written and engaging.  This was one of those stories that when you have to put it down it lingers on your mind and has you eager to pick it back up again. I am only sad it is over ... but excited there are more books to read in this series and by this author!