THE WHITE CITY by GRACE HITCHCOCK

Publication date 1/3/19

THE WHITE CITY by GRACE HITCHCOCK is a really delightful read. The story takes place in 1893 in Chicago at the time of the White City fair. The novel has a bit of everything - romance, intrigue, humour, murder, and a good Christian message running throughout. I know it is Grace Hitchcock's debut novel and I certainly hope she writes many more of the same caliber!
I love the quotations at the beginning of each chapter, from well loved authors from long ago.
Winifred Wylde is police Inspector Wylde's daughter and seems to want to follow in her father's footsteps. She is not interested in the never ending social engagements that her aunt insists she takes part in, nor in the suitors that she is encouraged to spend time with, as her aunt is afraid of her becoming an old maid. She wants to do something worthwhile with her life. She is an avid reader of romantic suspense, and when she sees a woman being manhandled by a man at the fair grounds she is convinced that he is the White City kidnapper.
I am not going to tell you any more in case I spoil the read for you, except to say that I really loved this book and can highly recommend it.



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THE BAGGAGE HANDLER by DAVID RAWLINGS

Publication date 5/3/19.
THE BAGGAGE HANDLER by DAVID RAWLINGS is a very cleverly written book in which David, Michael and Gillian, after having picked up the wrong baggage off the carousel at the airport, each have an encounter with the Baggage Handler. Here they see, for the first time, the baggage they are carrying around, and have the choice as to whether they want to get rid of it or continue to carry it.
It is a book I think everyone should read, letting the Baggage Handler, who is to me a type of the Holy Spirit, deal with the baggage in our lives. It is, in fact, a modern day parable.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. My favourite quote is found at the beginning of the book and reads "What weighs us down is not our baggage, but our decision to keep carrying it."



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CASTLE ON THE RISE by KRISTY CAMBRON

Publication date 5/2/19
CASTLE ON THE RISE by KRISTY CAMBRON is a novel that takes place in three time frames, all tied to the ruins of Castle Chryn and Ashford Manor in County Wicklow, Ireland, namely 1797, 1915/16 and the present day. The author has obviously done a great deal of research into Ireland's history and has cleverly mixed fictional characters with historical facts.
It is a beautifully written book with truly memorable characters who draw us into their joys and sorrows, making us really relate to them. We see how Laine and Cormac deal with their individual brokenness, determined to rise above the past. All the main characters show tremendous fortitude in fighting against circumstances that could easily have destroyed them. This is against the backdrop of the people of Ireland's fight for freedom from tyranny.
The novel starts with a quotation from Isaiah 43:2, which is God's promise to never leave nor forsake His people and to be with them in every trouble. I love how this truth is understood and taken hold of by those who are fighting for freedom, for their country, but also for themselves.
I would actually call this novel an epic story and can highly recommend it.


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THE LIEUTENANT'S BARGAIN by REGINA JENNINGS

THE LIEUTENANT'S BARGAIN is the first novel I have read by REGINA JENNINGS and it most certainly will not be the last! What a truly delightful love story - it is serious and amusing at the same time. I love the characters, they are so real, and their actions and speech make us know what they are feeling and thinking. It is a cleverly written book that keeps one's interest right to the last page.
The story takes place in 1885 in Indian Territory with Hattie Walker being rescued by some Arapaho Indians after the stage coach she is traveling in is attacked by bandits. She is on her way to Denver to make a name for herself as an artist. When Lieutenant Jack Hennessy, who is posted at the nearby fort, goes to fetch her from the Indians, he cannot believe that the girl he had such a crush on at school seems to have dropped into his life again in the strangest of circumstances. By trying to impress this woman he has loved all his life, he sets something in motion, due to his less than perfect understanding of the Arapaho language, which could affect his job at the fort and his work amongst the Indians and could cost Hattie her dream.
Jack is very committed to the Arapaho Indians and especially to the school in Darlington and the children's education. He is shocked by the disrespect shown towards the Indians in so many cases, especially as far as their traditions are concerned.
Hattie, after being very brave during her ordeal, is terrified of being alone, especially as she is the only living witness of the attack.
It is interesting to see the change in both these characters as they let go and let God work in their lives.
It is a lovely read and I can highly recommend it.



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SEARCHING FOR YOU by JODY HEDLUND

SEARCHING FOR YOU is the third book in the ORPHAN TRAIN series by JODY HEDLUND. I have been looking forward to receiving a copy as I enjoyed the previous two novels in the series, and have definitely not been disappointed! It is a sensitively told story which takes place in 1859, once again dealing with the placement of orphans from New York with people in the country. Although for some their life improved greatly, for others it did not turn out so well.
Afraid of losing Olivia and Nicholas, Sophie Neumann is living in squalor with them in New York, after having run away from her sisters. She is ashamed of the way she has been living, living on the streets and stealing food to keep the children alive, and feels she is too sinful even for the Lord and definitely doesn't want her sisters to see how far she has fallen. She doesn't realize that her sisters have been searching for her for two years, each of them feeling guilty that they hadn't taken her attachment to the children seriously. She is about to marry Danny, a Bowery boy, when she witnesses him letting a fire get out of hand and the murder of someone from another gang. She and her friend Anna get on the Orphan Train with the two children, intending to leave the train in Chigago, but it seems God has other plans for them!
I am not going to tell you any more and spoil your read except to say that the book is full of real people with very real needs. Sophie's need for love and acceptance will never be filled by the children, Reinhold, her sisters or anyone else. Once she accepts that God loves her unconditionally, things begin to change. I love Euphemia with her large family of sons and her cheerful encouragement and godly wisdom.
It is a story of redemption and second chances, forgiveness and acceptance.
I am definitely going to read this book more than once and can really recommend it for the lovely story and strong Christian content.

THE LIBERTY BRIDE by MARYLU TYNDALL

THE LIBERTY BRIDE by MARYLU TYNDALL is a historical novel which takes place in 1814, when Emeline Baratt's father's ship is attacked and taken over by the British. Emeline decides to try and save the day by pretending to be British and this leads to all kinds of adventures. She has always felt that her father disapproves of her determined character, and for this reason she feels she is a disappointment to God as well.
Lieutenant Owen Masters is also an American spy who has been in the British navy for years, trying to get information to help his country win the war. He also has a wrong perception of God, seeing Him as an unbending,authoritarian figure. His opinions were formed by his father, who was a legalistic, harsh, preacher, who let both his family and the church down very badly.
It is a sensitively told story of courage, forgiveness and loyalty, and also God's grace, protection and leading. We see Emeline's compassionate nature as she doctors both friend and enemy with the same zeal.
We see the horrors of war, where men kill one another for "freedom", compared to the true freedom that the Father offers us in Christ.
It is a really enjoyable book, with deep truth underlying the exciting story. I recommend it as a really good read.

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WITH THIS PLEDGE by TAMERA ALEXANDER

Publication date 8/1/2019.
WITH THIS PLEDGE by TAMERA ALEXANDER is a historical romance novel which starts with what happened at Carnton in Franklin Tennessee, the home of Colonel and Mrs McGavock, on November 30th 1864. It is a truly inspirational read with lessons for us to learn about forgiveness, compassion, and the horrors of war. The fact that, whatever our colour, we are all made in the image of God, is strongly brought out. Most of the characters are people who lived at the time, and the author has made them very real to us.
Lizzie Clouston is a governess who teaches the McGavock children. She is a born teacher and even teaches George and Tempy to read in secret, as, although she is a Southerner, she has strong feelings about the wickedness of slavery. When Captain Roland Jones, one of the Rebel soldiers who are being looked after at Carnton, finds out about her feelings about slavery, he thinks at first that she is a bit naive and looking for trouble, but he keeps her secret.
Lizzie and the McGavocks go out of their way to serve the broken men that are brought to them after the disastrous battle at Franklin, and Lizzie even helps Dr Philips in the many surgeries he performs. Even the children, Winder and Hattie, are involved in helping in this unusual and gruesome situation.
I really enjoyed this book for the great story and the strong Christian message.


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THE MEMORY HOUSE by RACHEL HAUCK

Publication date 2/4/19.

THE MEMORY HOUSE by RACHEL HAUCK is a truly beautiful book which is densely populated with memorable characters. They are so real that we come to feel what they are feeling. As they try to deal with what life has thrown at them, it is their faith in the Lord that carries them through.
Starting with Miss Everleigh, we see her finally coming to terms with her past and daring to love again. She played an important role in Beck and Bruno's lives when they were young, and leaves the memory house to Beck in her will. We see how this helps Beck, who has suffered from memory loss ever since her father's tragic death, remember her father and her childhood.
The subjects of grief, pregnancy, guilt and memory loss are sensitively dealt with in the novel.
It is a truly inspirational book and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
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SECRETS AT CEDAR CABIN by COLLEEN COBLE

Publication date 22/1/19.
SECRETS AT CEDAR CABIN by COLLEEN COBLE is a fast paced Christian romantic suspense thriller which will keep you up all night if you start reading it too late in the day! It is a nail biter and the author keeps us guessing right until the end.
It is the third novel in the Lavender Tides series, and we find Bailey Fleming fleeing for her life to the cabin her ex husband, Kyle, has give her, after her mother, Olivia, was shot, execution style.
Bailey, who has been moved around a lot by Olivia, has felt lonely all her life until she meets the friendly people she is surrounded with in Lavender Tides.
We come across Grayson, Shauna, Mac and Ellie, to name a few of the characters we came to know and love in the first two books in the series.
Bailey soon finds out that things are definitely not as they seem in Lavender Tides. She wonders if she has made a mistake coming back to her mother's home town.
Will the charming F.B.I. agent, Lance Phoenix, be able to keep her safe from the men who want her dead? Will anyone be able to help them uncover her mother's secrets before it is too late - the secrets that seem to be tied to a drug and sex trafficking ring?
I can highly recommend the novel as an exciting and enjoyable read.



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THE SECRETS OF PAPER AND INK by LINDSAY HARREL

Publication date 26/2/19.

THE SECRETS OF PAPER AND INK by LINDSAY HARREL takes place in Cornwall over two parallel time frames - the present, and 1856 when Emily Fairfax wrote her journal, a copy of which Sophia Barrett finds at Rosebud Books in Port Willis, where she is spending three months in order to get over a bad and abusive relationship.
An avid reader, Sophia is fascinated by Emily's story, especially as she has been advised by her best friend to write a journal herself in order to sort through her feelings and tell her story.
Ginny's brother in law, William, also an avid reader, is fascinated with Emily's story, and even more so with the beautiful Sophia, and he helps in her search.
Ginny is part owner of the book shop, but books are not really her passion - she went into it with her husband, Garrett, and has been left with a business that is not making ends meet while he is off in London "finding himself"!
It is a lovely book, with the written word playing an important role. Emily's story starts with her and Edward exchanging letters at their special tree and it is obvious that writing is very important to Emily.
I am not going to tell you any more as I don't want to spoil the read for you, except to say it is a heartwarming story, sensitively told, with a strong Christian message.






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THE PERSIAN GAMBLE by JOEL C. ROSENBERG

Publication date 12/3/19.
While THE PERSIAN GAMBLE by JOEL C. ROSENBERG is the sequel to The Kremlin Conspiracy, it can easily be read as a stand alone. Having read and enjoyed The Kremln Conspiracy, I was really pleased to have the story carry on, and am hoping there will be another novel in this series.
Joel Rosenberg is a master of the political thriller and is so knowledgeable about the Middle East and Last Days prophecy that his novels are always exciting and give us so much food for thought. Add to that a really solid Christian message and he has provided us with a worthwhile read.
Former secret service agent Marcus Ryker is helping Oleg Kraskin, code name Raven, defect from Russia after killing his father in law, President Lukanov, in order to prevent world war three. Oleg has risked his life to give information to the Americans. The two of them are on the run, with the wounded Jenny Morris, in sub zero temperatures and blizzard conditions, with both the Russians and Americans after them.
When Oleg, through his contact in North Korea, General Yong-Jin Yoon, hears that the Iranians are about to buy Russian warheads from the North Koreans, things heat up even more!
The novel is fast paced and very exciting, and full of political intrigue. It is hard to put down - in fact I have just read it straight through again, to see if I missed anything! Needless to say, I highly recommend The Persian Gamble!

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MY HEART BELONGS IN THE BLUE RIDGE by PEPPER BASHAM

Publication date 1/1/19
MY HEART BELONGS IN THE BLUE RIDGE by PEPPER BASHAM takes place in 1918 in Maple Springs in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The story is based on anecdotes told by the author's Granny Spencer about their ancestry in the area. It is a lovely book - well written, with very interesting characters and an excellent Christian message.
Laurel McAdams has lived all her life in the mountains. She is part of a large family who she loves and protects fiercely. She has always been a voracious reader and dreams of going to college and coming back to the mountains as a teacher.
Jonathan Taylor is the new teacher from England who was encouraged by his uncle Edward Anderson, the preacher for the area, also from England, to take up this position at the mission school. Uncle Edward does not see Jonathan as a failure or as being "broken" because he has a damaged leg and was turned down as an army medic.
Jonathan comes from a well to do family, and to start with he feels sorry for the people who are so poor and quite ignorant and superstitious, but he soon sees that he can learn a lot from them. Jonathan also has a dream which is to finish his medical degree. He has always been a disappointment to his father and wants to prove he is not a failure and also be independent of the overbearing man who has never shown him any affection.
I don't want to tell you any more and spoil the read for you, but I just want to say that I loved the way the characters learn a lot about themselves and their motives, and about the importance of forgiveness and trusting God to bring good out of all things.
This is the first novel I have read by this author, but it most certainly will not be the last!




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OF FIRE AND LIONS by MESU ANDREWS

Publication date 5/3/19
MESU ANDPREWS has done it again! OF FIRE AND LIONS is a beautifully told story, based on the book of Daniel, the first Babylonian exile and the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, and ending with Cyrus' decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem, according to prophecy. I love the way this author writes, with the fictitious characters fleshing out the story, without in any way taking away from the biblical account.
I also love the way she treats the biblical characters. We see Daniel, who from a young age has served his God and who is blessed with incredible wisdom. He has the ability to interpret dreams and understand prophecy, and yet we see him here as a man of normal emotions and fears. He is courageous in his faith and wholeheartedly loyal to Yahweh. When we see how the Lord comes through for him, we are encouraged to trust Him to deliver us when we face difficult circumstances in our own lives.
The story is told by a young Hebrew girl, Abigail, who is given the name Belili when she is captured and taken to Babylon. In Babylon she becomes Daniel's chambermaid until she is forced to flee for her life, ending up as a temple priestess in Achmetha.
I am not going to tell you any more as I don't want to spoil anything for you. It is a most exciting and inspirational read and I cannot recommend it highly enough. It is a story of courage, of broken relationships, of loyalty, of forgiveness and reconciliation, and above all it is a story of Yahweh's almighty power to deliver His servants.

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MILES FROM WHERE WE STARTED by CYNTHIA RUCHTI

Publication date16/10/18
In MILES FROM WHERE WE STARTED, CYNTHIA RUCHTI tells the story of a marriage and a fifteen year old boy that both need rescuing. It is a delightful read, very emotional but relieved with a good dose of humour.
Connor and Mallory Duncan haven't even been married for a year and their marriage seems to be over. They are about to go their separate ways when, because Connor's partner, Nathan, can't get out of jury duty, they end up embarking on a three week road trip in a very small camper, in order to make sure that their firm gets the RoadSave account. Add Nathan's troubled foster son, Judah, and things really get interesting!
It is a beautifully told story of courage, redemption and restoration, as we see God's grace at work in their hearts. I especially love the way the people they meet on the way have such input in their lives. It is not only RoadSave that is organizing their route - God Himself definitely has a hand in it!



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LEGACY OF MERCY by LYNN AUSTIN

Publication date 2/10/18.
LYNN AUSTIN'S novels are always worth waiting for, and LEGACY OF MERCY is no exception. Although it is the sequel to Waves of Mercy, it can stand alone, but I am glad I read the books in sequence.
It is a truly inspirational novel, rich in Christian content, with characters that stay with you long after you have finished reading.
Anna Nicholson is engaged to be married to William Wilkinson, one of the the most eligible bachelor in Chicago. She has recently had an encounter with the Lord, and desperately wants to live a life that is pleasing to Him. William is not interested in what he sees as her religious fanaticism, and in he downright forbids her to get involved with helping the poor. It hurts her to realize that he isn't interested in that which really interests her. Although she loves her parents and is fond of William, she feels that the society life they all live is meaningless when there are so many people struggling to make ends meet. She is determined, though, to not compromise her faith, no matter what it costs. Her struggles are very real, especially when she finds out more about her biological parents, and becomes the subject of scandal. In those days even being adopted was frowned upon by society, and now the legitimacy of her birth is the subject of hateful gossip!
Anna's grandmother, Geesje, is a delightful character, strong in the Lord and not giving up, even when she comes up against the most difficult people. Anna feels relieved when she is with Oma Geesje, who is so full of Godly wisdom and lives a simple life of service to her Lord.
This novel is a real classic and a delightful read. I cannot recommend it highly enough.




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SHELTER OF THE MOST HIGH by CONNILYN COSSETTE

Publication date 2/10/18.
SHELTER OF THE MOST HIGH is the second book in the CITIES OF REFUGE series by CONNILYN COSSETTE. Although it can be read as a stand alone, I would recommend that you read the first book, A LIGHT ON THE HILL, as well, as it is a really worthwhile read.
The story starts in Sicily in 1388 with Sofea, the daughter of a pagan high priest, and her cousin Prezi, being attacked and captured, ending up in Kedesh, one of the Hebrew cities of refuge.
It is a truly beautiful book, with an exciting plot, a lot of suspense, and a really excellent Biblical message. In fact, the author brings a feeling of peace in spite of the very real danger in which the characters find themselves; truly the peace that comes from being in the shelter of the Most High!
I like the way Moriyah, Darek and Eitan, treat the young foreign girls, showing them Yahweh's love, mercy and acceptance, which contrasts strongly with the treatment they received from Sofea's wicked and ungodly father.
This period of history is so interesting, as it is about twenty years since the Israelites came out of Egypt into the Promised Land. We see some results of their disobedience in not keeping separate from the Canaanites and their pagan beliefs.
I particularly like the descriptions of Shiloh, the Jewish festivals, and the High Priest, Eleazar. This is a must read for everyone who has a love for the Jewish people and who worships Yahweh, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

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WHO I AM WITH YOU by ROBIN LEE HATCHER

Publication date 11/12/18.
WHO I AM WITH YOU by ROBIN LEE HATCHER is an emotional read, which deals with two sets of people in two different timelines, all of whom are trying to overcome betrayal of some sort.
In present time, Ridley Chesterfield comes to the small town of Hope Springs in order to escape a political scandal in which he was falsely accused. He is staying in his parents' holiday home, where they hope to retire one day, right next door to Jessica Mason, a young pregnant widow, who is trying to get over her husband's betrayal and her daughter's death.
The parallel timeline starts in 1929 with the marriage of Andrew Henning and Helen Grayson and goes on through the depression.
In both cases there is betrayal, unforgiveness, and even a false sense of guilt to overcome, and we see how the Lord works in each of the situations. The novel is largely based on Romans chapter eight, verses twenty-six to twenty-eight, and we do indeed see how good comes out of each situation. I like the way Andrew Henning's bible, which ends up being left to Jessica by her grandmother, Frani, plays a big part in the story.
It is a sensitively told story with a really good Christian message.



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TELL HER NO LIES by KELLY IRVIN

Publication date 13/11/18.
TELL HER NO LIES by KELLY IRVIN is a fast paced thriller with an excellent Christian message. There is also a good dose of romance. The book deals with such things as homelessness, parenting, foster care and adoption, addiction, the importance of forgiveness and acknowledging that God is the only perfect Father.
Nina and Jan Fischer were adopted by their uncle Geoffrey Fischer, who was a successful and well thought of judge. He and his wife Grace saved them from foster care when they were abandoned by their mother.
When Nina finds her dad murdered in his home office, things really go from bad to worse, first with her being a suspect, and then with secrets that she and her friend, Aaron McClure, uncover about the judge. She feels badly let down and wants to uncover the truth, but loved her dad and wants to save his good name.
The characters are very real and we are made to feel what they are going through. It is Christian suspense at its best. I can highly recommend it as a most enjoyable read.




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CHOSEN PEOPLE by ROBERT WHITLOW

Publication date 6/11/18.

CHOSEN PEOPLE by ROBERT WHITLOW is right "up there" as one of the best books I have ever read! I have enjoyed all this author's novels, but this is definitely my new favourite. What an inspirational read!
Hana Abboud is an Arab Israeli follower of Jesus Christ, who is asked by the American law firm where she works to help Jakob Brodsky, a secular Russian Jew, to obtain justice for a family who suffered terrible loss at the hands of terrorists in Jerusalem. Although Hana is proud of her family's heritage, she recognizes and follows the Jewish Messiah, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
Running through the story is an almost palpable love for the Jews as God's chosen people, for His holy city Jerusalem, and for His people, whether Jew or Gentile. We see His purposes unfold, the awareness of His Presence which is especially close in Israel, and the times of refreshing only He can bring.
It is legal suspense at its very best. It is a story of courage and conviction against a backdrop of subterfuge and hatred.
I feel that the main characters in the book are actually Israel, the land God gave to His chosen people, and the City of Jerusalem.



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AS THE TIDE COMES IN by CINDY WOODSMALL

AS THE TIDE COMES IN by CINDY WOODSMALL is both heart-wrenching and hopeful. It is a lovely book and one I will definitely read more than once.
Abandoned by her mother and growing up in foster care, Tara longs to know the love of a family, and feels she has a family at last when she takes over the care of her two half brothers at the age of eighteen.
When tragedy strikes, she sets off for St Simon's Island in South Georgia. She is in denial, has recently had a head injury and subsequent surgery, and is taking heavy doses of Vocodin for the pain.
I don't want to tell you any more of the story as I might spoil it for you if I do.
I love the characters, especially the Glynn Girls, and the humour that runs throughout the book. We get to feel Tara's pain and Gavin's desperation, and through it all we see the hand of God, in even the most horrible situations. We are made aware of the fact that it is always safe to trust Him, no matter what happens. We get a real sense of his love and caring.
The Christian content is really good, the story is gripping, and I can highly recommend this book.



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HIDDEN AMONG THE STARS by MELANIE DOBSON

HIDDEN AMONG THE STARS by MELANIE DOBSON is such a special book that I really cannot recommend it highly enough. It is a historical romance novel which takes place in 1938/39 in Austria at the time of Hitler's take over of that country, and also in the present, when Callie Randall, known by the children at the book store, run by herself and her sister Brie, as Story Girl, finds something interesting amongst the pages of an old German copy of Bambi..
Through her research into what she finds in this old book, she meets Dr Josh Nemeth and his daughter Ella, and they join forces to try and find the hidden treasure. She overcomes her fear of the unknown and of letting people get close to her by traveling to Lake Hallstatt to try and find out what happened to her very dear friend Charlotte's mother, a mystery which seems somehow tied in with what is hidden in the pages of this copy of Bambi.
The author's obvious love for the Jews and horror at the atrocities meted out to them by Hitler and the Third Reich, as well as the way the truth of Scripture is woven throughout the book, really spoke to me. Jesus is portrayed here as the greatest of all Jews, who willingly died to save us and to bring hope to this crazy world, where hatred so often reigns in men's hearts. We see how different people deal with the evil that is suddenly in their world - some indifferent or too afraid to help, and others prepared to make huge sacrifices.
The importance of reading, especially for children, is also close to my heart, as are Austria and Vienna, where I have seen the Judenplatz as well as many other places that are mentioned in the book. I also love the fact that Callie is a blogger and researches the authors of the children's books in her store. I also like the way music runs through the story. The characters are very real and the author makes us feel what they are feeling. This is a book that I will definitely read more than once.





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DELAYED JUSTICE by CARA PUTMAN

Publication date 16/10/18.
DELAYED JUSTICE by CARA PUTMAN is a legal drama that deals with child abuse and generally overcoming the past. It is really worth reading, for the sensitive way the story is told, and for the really profound Christian message.
Jaime Nichol was abused by her uncle when she was eight years old, and only feels strong enough to make a case against him twenty years later. She is an attorney who works in the public defender's office. She is determined to make sure that everyone, whether guilty or not, has a fair trial. She has really good friend support, although only Caroline knows what actually happened to her as a child. She also has a new good friend in Chandler Bolton, who works with war veterans. He has been badly hurt himself and wants to help war vets get back into normal life wherever he can. All her friends, including Chandler, are Christians, but they use great wisdom in not trying to push her to accept their faith.
Chandler has a golden retriever called Aslan, who is a licensed therapy dog. He is also a comfort dog, and it is wonderful to see how comfortable eight year old Tiffany is with him.
It is a story about breaking down walls, starting over and overcoming fear. I can really recommend this book.


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RETURN OF THE SONG by PHYLLIS CLARK NICHOLS.

Publishing date 18/9/18.
RETURN OF THE SONG by PHYLLIS CLARK NICHOLS is one of those books that really "stays with you"! It is a beautiful story, told with great sensitivity, and the characters are unforgettable. There is also sound Christian content running throughout and a feeling of God's hand being upon His children even when, like Caroline, they seem to have lost their faith.
I love the descriptions of life in the small town of Moss Point where Sam, the retired judge and his wife Angel, are the self appointed guardians of Caroline Carlyle, the musician who lives in their studio apartment. There are also the town busy bodies like the florist and the hairdresser who make it their business to know everything that is going on, and the twins, Ned and Fred, who are such lovable characters.
When Caroline finds an intruder playing a song on her piano that is known to no one but herself, and also when she makes enquiries about the whereabouts of her childhood piano, her well ordered and quiet life takes some new turns!
It is a truly memorable book and I am looking forward to the sequel.




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LADY OF A THOUSAND TREASURES by SANDRA BYRD.

Publication date 9/10/18.
LADY OF A THOUSAND TREASURES by SANDRA BYRD is a historical romance novel which takes place in England in 1866.
We meet our heroine, Eleanor Sheffield, at Lord Lydney's funeral at Watchfield House. Lord Lydney has given Eleanor, whose family business has been employed by him for many years in the curatorship and valuation of his treasures, to decide whether his son, Harry, is honorable and worthy of inheriting them, or whether the whole collection should be given to the South Kensington museum where it could be admired by many. In fact a donation to the museum would not only impress the members of the Burlington Fine Arts Club, but it would more than likely encourage more commissions from rich collectors for Sheffield Brothers, which had fallen on hard times.
Lord Lydney did not think much of Harry, whereas his deceased son Arthur had been his favourite. Eleanor has been disappointed in Harry, who went away for six months without any explanation, especially when she thought he was going to propose, but she is determined to make an honest decision.
At her father's death and her uncle's slow fall into dementia, Sheffield Brothers is run by Eleanor, who is an expert valuator and restorer in her own right, and Mr Clarkson who works with her.
I love the description of life at that time and also the comparison between worldly treasures and a person's worth to God and to others. The Christian message is firmly woven into the story, which is full of intrigue and well worth reading. I see that some of the characters are based on real people living at the time, and that almost all the items mentioned are real pieces.
As we see that some of the treasures that Eleanor is asked to evaluate are discovered to be fraudulent, we are reminded of the importance of integrity in our lives and actions. We also see that some people's pride will not allow them to admit that they have been duped into buying a reproduction! They feel their reputation is at stake!
I can highly recommend this book and will definitely be reading it more than once.



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A TALE OF TWO HEARTS by MICHELLE GRIEP

Publication date 1/9/18
A TALE OF TWO HEARTS by MICHELLE GRIEP is a delightful read. The story takes place in 1853, in the time of Charles Dickens, and, in fact, we meet the heroine, Mina Scott, with a copy of David Copperfield that she is trying to hide from her father, Jasper Scott, the innkeeper.
I love the charming characters, the intriguing plot, the beautiful English and the constant quotes from Dickens' novels. I like the fact that the dashing William Barlow has changed radically since making his life right with the Lord, only to get badly caught up in a web of lies while trying to protect his uncle and save his mother's life.
In the novel we learn that it is best to trust the Lord with our problems and leave the outcome to Him, rather than working things out in our own strength, and we also learn what really is important in life. It is a story about second chances as well.
I can recommend the book for the lovely story, great setting in history, and good Christian message.



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THE LADY OF TARPON SPRINGS by JUDITH MILLER

THE LADY OF TARPON SPRINGS by JUDITH MILLER is a romance novel that takes place in 1905 during the time of diving for sponges at Tarpon Springs, Florida.
When Doctor Lucy Penrose hears from her friend and lawyer Zanna Krykos that the contract her deceased father signed to buy three diving boats and employ Greek divers to run a sponging business, could not be cancelled, and that Lucy would have to honour the contract if he should die, she is devastated. Zanna, who lives with her very boisterous Greek family, is naturally fluent in Greek and agrees to run the business for her friend.
The two young ladies are both determined to succeed in their careers, in fact Zanna became a lawyer without her father's knowledge or permission. He feels a woman's job is to get married and have babies, and keeps threatening to send her to Greece with her grandmother to find a Greek husband!
Fifty Greek spongers arrive, headed by Nico Kalos, and Zanna has her work cut out getting the Greek men to listen to her. She and Nico have to learn to work together in order to succeed.
When things start going wrong, we wonder how long it will take before Zanna and Nico find out what or who is sabotaging their business. There is quite a lot of suspense and there are some very colourful characters. I enjoyed the novel for the lovely story and good Christian message.





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THE RECKONING AT GOSSAMER POND by JAIME JO WRIGHT

THE RECKONING AT GOSSAMER POND by JAIME JO WRIGHT is a fascinating read, and one cannot help getting involved with the characters that make up the story as their secrets are gradually brought to light.
We are taken through the history of Gossamer Grove from 1907, when Libby Sheffield and her friend Calvin find Deacon Harrison Greenwood hanging from the rafters, to the present day when Annelise Forsythe is left a trailer full of photos, mostly of herself, by Eugene Hayes, a homeless man who was a vet of the Vietnam war.
Annelise and Libby's stories run parallel, and, as they dig for the truth, so many secrets are uncovered, including their own.
The Greenwoods are a proud family who see themselves as founding fathers in Gossamer Grove. They, together with Annelise's parents, will do anything to escape scandal. When Annelise Forsythe and Garrett Greenwood own up to their sin they are able to start on the path towards forgiveness. However, there is someone who will do anything to thwart Annelise's plans to build a homeless shelter for people like Eugene Hayes, who society has forgotten.
Libby also has someone who plays on her guilty feelings. This, together with the strange obituaries, are making her feel very vulnerable. The twin revivalist brothers, with Jedidiah's judgmental preaching, cause havoc in the town. Libby also needs the message of grace that was freely given on the cross, in order to be set free.
This is a mystery thriller with a good Christian message and I really enjoyed it.




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DEAD DRIFT by DANI PETTREY

DEAD DRIFT is the fourth and final novel in DANI PETTREY's Chesapeake Valor series. Having read the first three novels, I have been looking forward to seeing how the author was going to finish everything off, and I am definitely not disappointed! The book can be read as a stand alone, but I really recommend that you read the novels in sequence.
I have read and enjoyed all of Dani PETTREY's books, but I think Dead Drift has become my new favourite. I like the way she balances an exciting story and quite a lot of romance with good Christian content. In fact we see how the characters have grown in their commitment to the Lord over the years.
It is interesting to see how Kate will react to Luke after he has been gone for over seven years, and we also wonder if Griffin will ever be able to solve his sister's murder. Add to this the very real threat of a terrorist attack in America, and the search for the elusive Ebeid, and you have a really riveting story!
I can highly recommend Dead Drift for anyone enjoying romantic suspense novels.



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INDIVISIBLE by TRAVIS THRASHER

INDIVISIBLE by TRAVIS THRASHER is the story of Darren and Heather Turner and their three children, whose originally happy family is not at all the same when Darren comes home from deployment in Iraq, where he has been serving as an army chaplain. It is a novelization of Indivisible, The Movie, and it is based on a true story.
It is the most amazing book, which opens our eyes to the reality of war and the tremendous courage that both those in the armed forces and those who are left at home need in order to cope. The raw emotions shown and the desperation of those who are trying to trust the Lord in horrific situations is shown throughout.
Darren and Heather start out knowing that the Lord has called them to this service, his to the soldiers who are going through hell on earth and hers to the wives who are struggling at home, especially those who have lost their husbands. Their faith is important to them, and they minister the truth of the Gospel in their various roles, but there comes a time of burnout when Darren comes home and is still ministering to those with needs. It seems as though their marriage and family life is over. His home coming is not the wonderful occasion to which they have been looking forward. He cannot let go of the horrors of war until eventually he is forced seek help for himself if he is to save his family.
As in all of life's experiences, it is only when we stop relying on our own strength, put on the full armour of God, and trust Him to see us through, that we are victorious over the attacks of the enemy.
The book is full of Scripture references and real life instruction in a story that really is a classic. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

THE OCCUPIED and THE EMPOWERED by CRAIG PARSHALL

I feel that THE OCCUPIED and THE EMPOWERED by CRAIG PARSHALL should really be read in sequence, as they tell the story of Trevor Black's life from childhood, when he first comes into contact with the supernatural, right up to where he is actively involved in counteracting demonic activity by the power of God. Of course they can also be read as stand alones.
The novels are legal thrillers with a difference, in which demonic activity and spiritual warfare play a big part. We are kept guessing right the way through to the end of each book. Craig Parshall is one of my favourite authors and these two novels are well worth reading for the exciting stories and strong Christian message. I can really recommend them.

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BURDEN of PROOF by DIANN MILLS

BURDEN of PROOF is another fast paced thriller by DIANN MILLS, which I can highly recommend for the exciting story, interesting characters and good Christian message.
In the story we see the desperation of a father who is trying to clear his name in order to keep his daughter and his parents safe against almost insurmountable odds.
We see FBI agent April Ramos, trained hostage negotiator, taken hostage by Jason Snyder, the desperate father.
We see how fear causes people to keep quiet in the face of ongoing injustice.
We also see loyalty and compassion as people come together to see justice served.
I don't want to spoil anything for you so I won't tell you any more, except to say that you had better not start reading too late in the day or you may be up all night! There are lots of twists and turns and we are kept guessing right up to the end.



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DANCE OF GRACE by STACY MONSON

DANCE OF GRACE by STACY MONSON is a beautifully written, inspirational, romance novel, with very real characters who are trying to make sense of what life has thrown at them, whether this is due to their own bad choices or not.
Vanessa Jordan not only lost her mother to sickness but also her younger sister and brother in a car accident where she also lost part of her leg. She has already given up on God and is about to give up completely when she is befriended by Kurt Wagner, an ex con, who is turning his life around after an encounter with Jesus in prison.
It is a sensitively told story, with quite a few highs and lows, as these two, with the help of Faith Church, turn a house into a sanctuary for lost and hurting teens.
The book really makes one see and remember God's goodness and provision and His amazing love and constant closeness and protection. I enjoyed this novel for the heart warming, and sometimes heart wrenching, story, and the Christian message which runs throughout. I cannot recommend it highly enough!


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MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE by KAREN WITEMEYER

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE by KAREN WITEMEYER is a delightful romance novel with a great deal of action, and also strong biblical truth of which we are reminded throughout.
The story starts in 1879 with four children going back on the Orphan Train, having been unable to find anyone willing to take them in. There is an accident and four year old Evangeline's brother, Hamilton, dies, after asking Zach to look after his sister. Zach is an angry young man of thirteen who takes it upon himself to take care of Evie and Seth, an unhealthy boy who suffers from asthma. Evie has one brown and one blue eye, and is shunned by many who see her as an evil witch. Nothing could be further from the truth as she grows into a compassionate and praying young woman. These three "misfits" call themselves the Hamiltons and they make up a very close knit and strong family unit.
Zach works hard to provide a home for his little family and takes his responsibility seriously. The story carries on in 1894 with Logan Fowler buying land next door to them. When Evie befriends their new neighbour her brothers become worried, being overly protective of her.
I don't want to spoil the read for you so I won't tell you any more except to say that we see that there is always hope in the Lord, even for the most broken of people. We see how important it is to not keep grudges and to not be bitter and unforgiving towards one another. It is important to look further than a person's outward appearance for the qualities that may lie underneath. The best gift that one can give another person is to accept and love them unconditionally.
I really enjoyed this novel and can highly recommend it.




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FALLING FOR YOU by BECKY WADE

FALLING FOR YOU by BECKY WADE is an incredibly beautiful inspirational romance novel with a really strong Christian message. It is a story of forgiveness, reconciliation and redemption.
Two people, each famous in their own right, Corbin Stewart, the NFL quarterback, and Willow Bradford, the successful model, who are both still reeling from a nasty break up four years ago, agree to work together with Corbin's young cousin, Charlotte Dixon, to find out what happened to her grandmother's sister who disappeared without a trace in 1977.
We are drawn into the characters' emotional struggles, heartaches, joys and fears. I love the way the relationship between the three Bradford sisters and that between Corbin and his father, are portrayed.
It is a book I will read more than once and I can highly recommend it.



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DEADLY EXCHANGE by LISA HARRIS

Having read and enjoyed all LISA HARRIS' novels, I can highly recommend her latest book, DEADLY EXCHANGE.
The story takes place in Amsterdam where Kayla Brooks works for the International Freedom Operation, which rescues girls who have been sold into prostitution. We get a good feel of what life in Amsterdam is like for those who are coming up against the sex trade, or who are "owned" by the crime bosses.
When Levi Cummings phones her to say he is in Amsterdam to protect her from his brother Adam, she is pleased to have his support, having just been knocked off her bicycle by a car and come home to find that her father is missing. On top of all this she has been receiving threatening texts.
I won't tell you any more because I don't want to spoil the read for you.
The Christian message is good and is based on Esther 4:14. This challenges us and gives us much food for thought.
It is an exciting book, full of suspense, and well worth reading.



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THE SATURDAY NIGHT SUPPER CLUB by CARLA LAUREANO

THE SATURDAY NIGHT SUPPER CLUB by CARLA LAUREANO is a delightful romance novel with a really good Christian message.
It is the story of a dedicated, award winning chef, Rachel Bishop, who has worked her way up from helping at a restaurant when she left home at the age of fifteen, to having a major share in her own restaurant, Paisley, at thirty.
We see how fickle social media can be when she becomes the victim of a vicious smear campaign, which is made worse when essayist, Alex Kanin, writes an article which causes her partners to buy her out of her restaurant and leave her high and dry.
With all the people who matter in the restaurant business suddenly not taking her calls, she takes Alex up on his offer to help her find an investor in a new restaurant. This is how the Saturday Night Supper Club starts.
I love the way the characters are so natural, and also the humour throughout their conversations. Alex and Rachel start out really badly, with Rachel hurt and angry and Alex trying to make things right because he feels guilty for ruining her career.
We see how important it is to follow one's own dreams and not compromise in order to please others. We also see how one needs to nurture one's relationship with the Lord, and choose what really is important in life.
I can highly recommend this novel - it is a really enjoyable read. In fact I will definitely be reading it more than once!



Rachel Bishop Alex Kanin


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THE FASHION DESIGNER by NANCY MOSER

THE FASHION DESIGNER by NANCY MOSER is a charming book. I love the theme of fashion design and dressmaking. Although it is the second novel in The Pattern Artist series it can most definitely be read as a stand alone. The characters are very real and the story is lovely.
The novel is set in 1912, a time when women were not expected to break out of the stereotypical roles into which they were born.
Three friends give up their jobs to follow a dream. Led by Annie Culver, former housemaid, and promised funding by Eleanor Sampson, they rent the apartment above and get down to work. Maude Nascato worked with Annie at Butterick and Edna Holmquist worked at Macy's. Annie's husband, Sean, keeps his job at Butterick, but is very much a part of the whole project. They want to improve life for the ordinary woman by designing and making clothes that are comfortable, affordable and that make them look and feel good.
Annie and her friends have experienced so many miracles, including missing the train which would have got them to the Titanic in time for its departure, and this helps them hold on in faith when things seem to be hopeless. We see how important it is to follow God's leading and how easy it is for things to go wrong when we leave God out and try and make things happen in our own strength.
It is a really enjoyable read with a strong Christian message.



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THIEF OF CORINTH by TESSA AFSHAR

THIEF OF CORINTH is another biblically based novel by TESSA AFSHAR, every bit as good as the ones that have come before. The publishing date is 7/8/18 and it is well worth waiting for!
When Ariadne hears that her grandfather, with her mother's blessing, has promised her in marriage to Draco, the vile son of his friend Evandos, she runs away from Athens to live with her father in Corinth. Theodotus, her foster brother, goes with her, leaving her brother, Dionysius, who can't do anything wrong in her grandfather and mother's eyes, to smooth things over for her.
While she is living in Corinth, it is by accident that she finds out her father's secret and the reason her mother left him. She is devoted to her father and will do anything for him. Unlike his sister, Dionysius is angry when he learns his father's secret, and it takes meeting Paul the apostle for him to forgive his father.
It is a story of redemption, the longing to belong and to be loved, forgiveness and restoration. Ariadne's favourite statue in Athens was the one in honour of The Unknown God, and when the disciple Paul introduces her to the true Unknown God, the God of love, her life changes.
It is a beautifully written book. As always, the author has done a great deal of research into life at the time and the story really comes alive for us. It is full of biblical truth and really worth reading. I cannot recommend it highly enough.



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THE HIDDEN SIDE by HEIDI CHIAVAROLI

THE HIDDEN SIDE by HEIDI CHIAVAROLI is not a light and easy read, but it is well worth reading. It is very well put together, with the story of Mercy Howard, who lived in 1776 in war torn America, intertwining with the story of the Abbot family in 2016, who were fighting their own war.
When Natalie Abbot came across the book, The Journal Entries of Mercy Howard, next to her twelve year old son Chris' bed, she did not know what an encouragement Mercy's story would be to her and also eventually to Chris' twin sister, Maelynn.
Natalie works for a radio station under the nom de plume, Skye, and she and her co-host, Tom, take calls from people, mostly desperate ones, giving them Godly advice and encouragement.
In spite of the heaviness of the subject matter, hope shines through both Mercy's and the Abbot family's stories, and we see that the Lord can bring good out of even the most awful situations. As hidden secrets are eventually revealed, the healing begins and life goes on.
It is a very "real" book and an excellent read. 


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