Blue Moon Bay by Lisa Wingate

Overview: Every Once in a Blue Moon Your Heart Waits at a Crossroads.

Seattle architect Heather Hampton, a trip back to tiny Moses Lake, Texas, is hardly in the plan. Yet because a promotion hinges on the sale of the family farmland, Heather heads to the last place she ever wanted to go. She's determined to return home, signed contract in hand, the next day.

But the currents of Moses Lake take visitors on unexpected journeys. As Heather's stay lengthens, she discovers a family steeped in secrets and an unexpected connection to local banker Blaine Underhill, despite his opposition to Heather's project. With each new revelation and question, Heather can't help but wonder if the handsome banker--and the family she has come to know again--are crooks or crusaders. Somehow she must find out the truth before she loses everything she has worked for and everything she's found on the shores of Moses Lake.

ISBN-13: 9780764208225

Publisher: Baker Publishing Group

Publication date: 2/1/2012

Series: Moses Lake Series , #2

Pages: 384

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My Review: This book took me a while to get into...like over halfway through the book. The story wasn't bad. I was interested enough to keep reading, but I wasn't involved in the story until the half way point. Then, I couldn't put it down. 

For most of the story, I found Heather to be childish, selfish, and annoying. I understood her reasoning for being the way she was, but it still bothered me. I wanted her to look, REALLY LOOK, at the people around her and how they perceived her, rather than how she perceived them. The secondary characters, the uncs mainly, provided a sort of relief to the story. I loved Blaine's "all-American good boy" character. The romance kind of seemed forced, though.

The message was my favorite part of this story. "In keeping my defenses high, in striving to maintain a self-sufficient, ordered, controlled life that contained minimal risk, I was missing everything that mattered most. A well-lived life, an authentic life, involved risks - and faith that allowed you to take those risks." In keeping your self locked away because of the risks involved, you are missing out on the blessings God has in store for your lives!

Overall, the book was good. I thoroughly enjoyed the message it contained and look forward to reading the third book in the series.

About the Author: Selected among BOOKLIST'S Top 10 of 2012 and Top 10 of 2013, Lisa Wingate skillfully weaves lyrical writing and unforgettable Southern settings with elements of women's fiction, history, and mystery to create stories that Publisher's Weekly calls "Masterful" and ForeWord Magazine refers to as "Filled with lyrical prose, hope, and healing.” Lisa is a journalist, an inspirational speaker, a reviewer for the New York Journal of Books, and the author of over over twenty novels and countless magazine pieces. 

Her books have held positions on many bestseller lists, both in the U.S. and internationally. She is a seven-time ACFW Carol award nominee, a Christy Award nominee, an Oklahoma Book Award finalist, a Christianity Today Book Award nominee, an Inspy Award nominee, a two-time Carol Award winner, a LORIES Best Fiction Award winner, and a Utah Library Award winner. Recently, the group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa along with Bill Ford, Camille Cosby, and six others, as recipients of the National Civies Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life.  Visit Lisa at her website: www.LisaWingate.com

A Match of Wits by Jen Turano

Overview: After his departure from New York two years ago to meet up with his almost-fiancée, Zayne Beckett is the last person Agatha Watson wanted to stumble upon in her travels as a reporter with the New York Tribune. Quite pathetically bedraggled, he clearly needs to be taken in hand and sent back East to his family. Although she no longer has feelings for him, Agatha realizes, by hook or by crook, she'll have to be the one to get the obstinate man home.

Zayne has no desire to be taken anywhere and is prepared to drag his heels all the way home... until he finds himself slipping back into the familiar banter of his former friendship with Agatha. Once they arrive in New York, Zayne realizes Agatha's determined nose for news has earned her a few enemies, and he hopes to repay her help with some help of his own. When she rebuffs all his attempts to prove himself a knight in shining armor, the lengths to which they'll go to win this battle of wills lead to some memorable antics.

Everyone else may think them a match, but nothing could be further from the truth—until Agatha finds herself in real trouble. Have these two stubborn, too-smart-for-their-own-good people been meant for each other all along?

ISBN-13: 9780764211270
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Publication date: 7/1/2014
Series:Ladies of Distinction Series , #4
Pages: 352

 My Reviews of the Ladies of Distinction Series: A Change of Fortune | A Most Peculiar Circumstance | A Talent for Trouble

My Review: I absolutely love Jen Turano. Her writing style is entertaining and fun! I have been waiting for Agatha's story since I read the first book, A Change of Fortune, and I was not disappointed. The story was swift, the action and adventure was entertaining, and the dialogue was witty! My only complaint: it ended!!

Agatha is a woman ahead of her time. She is unconventional, independent, stubborn, and someone wants her dead. Her faith is strong, even when she is unsure of the future. Zayne is a compassionate, kind man who is a little bit lost and disheartened in the beginning  of the story. Their connection was immediate, but both were slow to come to terms with their feelings, which made for highly entertaining dialogue. 

The message of the book was simple: God is always there, leading the way for you, even when you can't see Him in your circumstances. Sometimes it takes the help of others to realize this. Family and friends were placed in your life to help you along in your Christian walk, so don't take them for granted!

Overall, this was a highly satisfying conclusion to a fantastic series, and I can't wait for more of Jen Turano's stories.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House, in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.*

• Learn more about Jen Turano 
• Follow Jen: Facebook

Larkspur Cove by Lisa Wingate

Overview: Adventure is the last thing on Andrea Henderson's mind when she moves to Moses Lake. After surviving the worst year of her life, she's struggling to build a new life for herself and her son as a social worker. Perhaps in doing a job that makes a difference, she can find some sense of purpose and solace in her shattered faith.

For new Moses Lake game warden Mart McClendon, finding a sense of purpose in life isn't an issue. He took the job to get out of southwest Texas and the constant reminders of a tragedy for which he can't forgive himself.

But when a little girl is seen with the town recluse, Mart and Andrea are drawn together in the search for her identity. The little girl offers them both a new chance at redemption and hope—and may bring them closer than either ever planned.

ISBN-13: 9780764208218
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Publication date: 2/1/2011
Series:Moses Lake Series , #1
Pages: 360

 See my review of Book 4 in the Moses Lake Series: Wildwood Creek

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My Review: This book started out a little slow for me. I was about a quarter of the way through before I really got interested, but after that I didn't want to put it down. The story flows smoothly enough. The author's description of the Moses Lake and Larkspur Cove communities really drew me in. I love small towns! 

The characters were well written, but I didn't feel a real connection with Bart or Andrea. I can relate to their feelings of loss, but that's really where my connection ended. I did enjoy watching Andrea begin to heal from her divorce and watching her grow as a person. However, I didn't feel like Bart grew or changed at all. Sure, he made some decisions regarding how he was handling his life, but I felt they were kind of abrupt. The secondary characters, the regulars at the Waterbird Bait and Grocery and Len and Birdie made the story far more interesting.

The reason I'm giving this book four stars is because of the message. My new favorite thing to do while reading a book is to mark passages that really speak to me. While I didn't mark up the whole book with sticky notes, I did mark several pages that I thought made excellent points. The message of the book is two-fold. Andrea realizes that having joy, real joy, in your life was a choice each of us has to make. She also has to learn that God is there, even when you can't see Him, hear Him, or when you deny He is. He is in all places and you only have to be still and listen to hear Him. Mart learns that when times get tough, it's easy to blame God instead of realizing that while we don't know why things happen, God does and you don't do any good by turning your back on your faith.

Overall, this was an enjoyable story. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!

About the Author: Selected among BOOKLIST'S Top 10 of 2012 and Top 10 of 2013, Lisa Wingate skillfully weaves lyrical writing and unforgettable Southern settings with elements of women's fiction, history, and mystery to create stories that Publisher's Weekly calls "Masterful" and ForeWord Magazine refers to as "Filled with lyrical prose, hope, and healing.” Lisa is a journalist, an inspirational speaker, a reviewer for the New York Journal of Books, and the author of over over twenty novels and countless magazine pieces.

Her books have held positions on many bestseller lists, both in the U.S. and internationally. She is a seven-time ACFW Carol award nominee, a Christy Award nominee, an Oklahoma Book Award finalist, a Christianity Today Book Award nominee, an Inspy Award nominee, a two-time Carol Award winner, a LORIES Best Fiction Award winner, and a Utah Library Award winner. Recently, the group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa along with Bill Ford, Camille Cosby, and six others, as recipients of the National Civies Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life. 

• Learn more about Lisa Wingate 
• Find Lisa: Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest | Southern Belle View Blog

End of The Trail by Vickie McDonough

End of The Trail is the sixth and final book in the Texas Trails: A Morgan Family Series. The series was written by a collaboration of three authors: Vickie McDonough, Susan Page Davis, and Darlene Franklin. It was a wonderful ride, and End of The Trail was the perfect conclusion to the series.

Overview: He enters a poker game and wins a new life

She loses the only home she has ever known

Two hostile adversaries are forced to work together

In 1896 Brooks Morgan pulls into the town of Shoofly, Texas, to take refuge from a storm. He befriends Will Langston in the local café and agrees to help him out in exchange for room and board. A high stakes poker game ends in Brooks holding the deed to Will's ranch with a promise to "take care of Keri." His joy is short-lived, for when he returns home he finds Will dead - murdered.

When Brooks finally rides to Raven Creek Ranch, he is greeted by a rifle pointed straight at his chest. The same woman who came to his rescue earlier is now ready to shoot him. This is the "Keri" he promised to take care of-Will's niece-who believes Raven Creek is her inheritance.  Keri and Brooks have only one thing in common - they both want to protect the ranch. Is this really God's plan to save Raven Creek Ranch? Or did Will stage the whole fiasco?

ISBN-13: 9780802404084
Publisher: Moody Publishers
Publication date: 5/25/2012
Series:The Texas Trail Series
Edition description: New Edition
Pages: 256

Buy it: B&N | Amazon | CBD

 

My Review: I really enjoy Vickie McDonough's writing style. Her stories flow effortlessly and always leave me satisfied. This one is no different. My only complaint is that I wish it was longer! Brooks rides into the town of Shoofly during a hail storm, and the story takes off from there. There is a little bit of everything in this book. I loved that the story was fast paced, yet I still felt connected to the characters.

Brooks Morgan started out as a spoiled, angry young man. I enjoyed watching him grow into a mature man of God. His attitude changed slowly throughout the book from a man who smiled all the time to cover to pain to a man who smiled because he was actually happy and enjoying life. Keri Langston was a woman after my own heart. She is strong-willed, independent, and lonely woman. Everyone she loved has left her, giving her the feeling of abandonment. Watching her change from a lonely woman, to a woman loved by her God was exciting!

Overall, this is a satisfying conclusion to the end of the series. As the back of the book states, "Doubt meets hope, and fear gives way to faith..." in this book, and throughout the series.

 

**I received this book free from Moody Publishers in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.**

• Learn more about the Texas Trails Series
• Find out more about Vickie McDonough
• See my reviews of the rest of the Texas Trails Series: Lone Star Trail | Captive Trail | Long Trail Home | A Ranger's Trail | Cowgirl Trail

Stuck Together by Mary Connealy

Overview: When a lawman who values order gets stuck with a feisty crusader who likes to stir things up, there's going to be trouble in Texas!
Now that she's settled in town, Tina Cahill is determined to get Broken Wheel's saloon closed for good. To that end, she pickets outside the place every afternoon. Unfortunately, so far no one has paid any attention.

Vince Yates earned the nickname "Invincible Vince" because of his reputation for letting absolutely nothing stop him. But Vince is about to face his biggest challenge yet: his past has just caught up with him. His father, mother, and the sister he didn't know he had show up in Broken Wheel without warning. His father is still a schemer. His mother is showing signs of dementia. And his surprise sister quickly falls for one of Vince's best friends. Vince suddenly has a lot of people depending on him, and Tina doesn't approve of how he's handling any of them.

With nearly every other man in town married off, Vince finds himself stuck with strong-willed Tina over and over again. Of course, Tina is the prettiest woman he's ever seen, so if he could just get her to give up her crazy causes, he might go ahead and propose. But he's got one more surprise coming his way: Tina's picketing at the saloon has revealed a dark secret that could put everyone Vince loves in danger.

ISBN-13: 9780764209161
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Publication date: 6/3/2014
Series:Trouble in Texas , #3
Pages: 320

See my review of Swept Away and Fired Up 

Buy it: B&N | Amazon | CBD

My Review:  This was a fantastic book! I absolutely love Mary Connealy. Her stories are always entertaining and the dialogue is always hilarious. This story is no exception. There were several laugh out loud moments that I truly appreciated. 

I also enjoyed getting to keep up with the other characters from Swept Away and Fired Up. Luke, Ruthie, Glynna, Dare, and Jonas make excellent secondary characters that keep the story flowing swiftly. Vince and Tina are my favorite couple because it took them the longest to realize their love for each other! Their characters had to go through some pretty difficult obstacles, that I also appreciated.

The message of the story is clear: put your trust in the Lord and let go of your fear. He will not lead you where His grace won't keep you. I loved that Vince had to learn to let go of the fear of his past and future because he realized it was defining his life and his relationships. I loved that Tina had to realize that her fear of being unlovable made her who she was and it was great to see her let it go. 

Overall, this was satisfying conclusion to the Trouble in Texas series and I look forward to reading more by this incredible author!

*Thank you, Bethany House, for providing me with a free copy of this book via the Bethany House Blogger program in exchange for my honest review.*

About the Author: Mary Connealy is the bestselling author of romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Carol Award winner and a Rita and Christy and IRCC Award Finalist.

She is the author of The Trouble in Texas series, Swept Away, Fired Up and Stuck Together, The Kincaid Brides Series, Out of Control, In Too Deep and Over the Edge.
The Sophie's Daughters Series, Doctor in Petticoats, a Rita Award finalist, Wrangler in Petticoats and Sharpshooter in Petticoats. These three books are now contained in the single volume Sophie's Daughters Trilogy. The Montana Marriages Series, Montana Rose, The Husband Tree and Wildflower Bride. Montana Rose was a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now available in the single volume Montana Marriages Trilogy.

Find Mary online at: Seekerville | Petticoats & Pistols | Mary's Blog | 

Website | Twitter | Facebook

Fired Up by Mary Connealy

I work in an inbound call center. I know I'm reading a good book when I get so caught up in the story, I jump when I get a call (the phone beeps in your ear to alert you)! That's how involved I became in this book.

Overview:  When a doctor who attracts danger falls for a cook determined to make it on her own, there's going to be trouble in Texas!

Glynna Greer came west as a mail-order bride and ended up in a bad situation. Now her husband, Flint, is dead, and she's determined to make a go of it on her own. In a town full of men, Glynna decides she can support her two children by opening a diner—never mind that cooking is not her greatest talent.

 

Dare Riker is a doctor who saves lives, but someone seems determined to end his. It may have something to do with the traitors he dealt with during the Civil War, or it might be related to the recent incident with Flint Greer and the ranch. Whoever the culprit is, he or she seems really fired up, and Dare can't let his guard down for a moment—which is a challenge, since right now he's trying to win the heart of the recently widowed Glynna.

Though his doctoring business is booming due to Glynna's questionable cooking, Dare seems to encounter unexpected dangers wherever he goes. There's the avalanche. And the fire. And then the shadowy figure with a knife. Can Dare survive it all long enough to convince Glynna to take another chance on love?

ISBN-13: 9780764209154
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Publication date: 9/15/2013
Series: Trouble in Texas Series , #2
Pages: 336

See my review of Swept Away 

 Buy It: B&N | Amazon | CBD

My Review: I'm so glad this book picks up with Dare and Glynna's story!! There is a lot of action in this book and the mystery of "who done it" wasn't obvious until 3/4 the way through... And even then I wasn't absolutely sure!! 

I loved Glynna's character. She was strong despite what happened in her life. She had the courage to pick herself up and keep going. Yet, she yearned for the love of a decent man and the reassurance that she was a good, honest, loving mother and woman. That's a character I can relate to. Dare Riker is an honest man, yet he can't seem to move past the fact that he isn't really a doctor. We see him fighting himself and God the whole story about it, at least half-hearted. Glynna and Dare fired each other up whenever they were together and sparks flew! 

The message was one of forgiveness. God calls us to forgive others, not for them, but for Him and ourselves. As Dare reminds Paul at the end of the story, "It does a lot of damage to carry hate around inside," and "giving up the hurt and anger would leave space in your head for something better." Connealy also reminds us that though we are Christians, "live has challenges for everyone, no matter who they are." God doesn't smooth out all the bumps, but he'll get you through it!

Overall, Mary Connealy delivers another hilarious cowboy romance with a little action and a big message!

About the Author: Mary Connealy is the bestselling author of romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Carol Award winner and a Rita and Christy and IRCC Award Finalist.

She is the author of The Trouble in Texas series, Swept Away, Fired Up and Stuck Together, The Kincaid Brides Series, Out of Control, In Too Deep and Over the Edge.
The Sophie's Daughters Series, Doctor in Petticoats, a Rita Award finalist, Wrangler in Petticoats and Sharpshooter in Petticoats. These three books are now contained in the single volume Sophie's Daughters Trilogy. The Montana Marriages Series, Montana Rose, The Husband Tree and Wildflower Bride. Montana Rose was a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now available in the single volume Montana Marriages Trilogy.

Find Mary online at: Seekerville | Petticoats & Pistols | Mary's Blog | 

Website | Twitter | Facebook

Swept Away by Mary Connealy

Overview: When a cowboy focused on revenge encounters a woman determined to distract him, there's going to be trouble in Texas!

Swept away when her wagon train attempts a difficult river crossing, Ruthy MacNeil isn't terribly upset at being separated from the family who raised her. All they've ever done is work her to the bone. Alive but disoriented, she's rescued by Luke Stone...so unfortunately, there are more chances to die in her immediate future.

Luke is on a mission to reclaim the ranch stolen from his family. But the men currently on the property won't let it go without a fight. Luke plans to meet up with friends who will help him take back the land, and since he can't just leave Ruthy in the middle of nowhere, she's going to have to go with him.

But the more time Luke spends around the hardworking young woman, the more he finds himself thinking of things besides revenge. Will Ruthy convince him to give up his destructive path and be swept away by love?

ISBN-13: 9780764209147
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Publication date: 3/1/2013
Series:Trouble in Texas Series , #1
Pages: 320

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My Review: I had forgotten how funny and entertaining Mary Connealy's stories can be! This one pulled me in from the time Ruthy gets swept away in a flood and kept me hooked until the very last page.

Ruthy MacNeil is a hard working, smart, God-fearing woman who finds herself in one bad situation after another. Her attitude throughout the book reminds us that we should try to find the positive in any situation. Luke Stone is an honorable, tough man bent on revenge. As the story goes on, we find his priorities lining up better with the God he was raised to know and love.

With witty dialogue, an action packed story, and God's reminder that revenge belongs to Him, this is another fantastic story by Mary Connealy!

About the Author: Mary Connealy is the bestselling author of romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Carol Award winner and a Rita and Christy and IRCC Award Finalist.

She is the author of The Trouble in Texas series, Swept Away, Fired Up and Stuck Together, The Kincaid Brides Series, Out of Control, In Too Deep and Over the Edge.
The Sophie's Daughters Series, Doctor in Petticoats, a Rita Award finalist, Wrangler in Petticoats and Sharpshooter in Petticoats. These three books are now contained in the single volume Sophie's Daughters Trilogy. The Montana Marriages Series, Montana Rose, The Husband Tree and Wildflower Bride. Montana Rose was a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now available in the single volume Montana Marriages Trilogy.

Find Mary online at: Seekerville | Petticoats & Pistols | Mary's Blog | 

Website | Twitter | Facebook

Cowgirl Trail by Susan Paige Davis

Cowgirl Trail is the fifth book in the Texas Trails: A Morgan Family Series. The series was written by a collaboration of three authors: Vickie McDonough, Susan Page Davis, and Darlene Franklin. It's been a great series so far, and I look forward to reading the rest!

Overview:

A young woman determined to save the family ranch

A devastating loss

An answer to prayer as shots are fired

Maggie Porter returns to the Rocking P Ranch. The sanatorium was not able to save her mother and now her father's health is failing. When the cowboys walk off the job leaving no one to drive the cattle to market, head ranch hand, Alex Bright, cannot convince the men to stay. How could Alex let this happen?

Maggie is desperate to save the ranch. To everyone's surprise, she turns to the town's women for help. The cowgirls must herd, rope, and drive the cattle to market. With only two days left, outlaws charge the small band in an effort to start a stampede. The cattle begin to scatter. Will they lose everything? Where will their help come from?

Doubt meets hope, and fear gives way to faith in the Morgan family.

My Review: I loved this book! Susan Paige Davis executed the story phenomenally. I have never read another book with this concept, and it was fun and exciting to follow the cowgirls on the trail! The author chose to focus more on the story than scenery, which I appreciated because the story was so captivating. In a man's world, can a group of twelve women make it? I was cheering for Maggie from the beginning.

The characters in the story were easy to relate to. Maggie Porter is a strong, spunky, independent woman who is still in touch with her emotions and feelings. That's a refreshing thing in a woman character. Alex Bright feels torn between his loyalty to Maggie's father and herself, and the men that he was chosen to lead. He knows he can't choose both. What a hard decision!

The message of the story was simple, yet understated. Sometimes, even when we can't see the outcome, we have to rely on God and rejoice in our current circumstances. Have you ever been in a situation that you've had a hard time rejoicing? I know I have. That is God molding and making you in the refiner's fire!

Overall, this was a short, sweet story and I recommend it to anyone who wants to read about cowgirls leading a cattle drive!

**I received this book free from Moody Publishers in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.**

More fun! with links:

• Learn more about the Texas Trails Series 
• Meet Susan Paige Davis
• Purchase Cowgirl Trail: B&N | Amazon | CBD 
• See my reviews on the rest of the Texas Trials series:
• Lone Star Trail 
• Captive Trail 
• Long Trail Home 
• A Ranger's Trail

A Talent For Trouble by Jen Turano

Overview: For years, Miss Felicia Murdock's every thought and action have been in pursuit of becoming a minister's wife. When the minister she'd set her sights on has other ideas, she decides something in her life needs to change--and soon--before she wastes any more time pretending to be someone she's not. If that means spreading her wings and embracing a more lively way of life, who's to say nay?

Grayson Sumner, Lord Sefton, has had more than enough of spreading his wings and only hopes to settle into the life of a respectable New York gentleman. Prompted by some friends to lift the spirits of the disappointed-in-love Miss Murdock, he is surprised to encounter an adventurous young lady with an unfortunate knack for stumbling into troublesome situations.

Just as Grayson decides he's had quite enough of her antics, his past comes back to haunt him and his presence in Felicia's life endangers her. As they work together to extricate themselves from this latest complication, will Grayson and Felicia decide they want to spend the rest of their lives keeping one another out of trouble?

My Review: Jen Turano has written another fantastic story! With lovable characters, witty dialogue, and an interesting plot, this story has it all. The story was humorous. The mystery surrounding Grayson's past added excitement to the story.

I loved Felicia's character. A lot of people can relate to her story. She is a strong woman with a deep faith and a "talent for trouble." The circumstances she finds herself in are hysterical. Grayson adds mystery to the story. He is compassionate and gruff at the same time. The romance that blossoms between them is sweet. 

The message of the story is two-fold. Make sure you pray and listen for God's direction in your life. Second, God will forgive all sin, big or small. It's all equal in His eyes. If He forgives you, you can most certainly forgive yourself. 

Overall, I highly enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more!

• Learn more about Jen Turano 
• Follow Jen: Facebook 
• Read my review of A Change of Fortune 
• Read my review of A Most Peculiar Circumstance

A Most Peculiar Circumstance by Jen Turano

Overview: Miss Arabella Beckett, defender of the down-trodden women of America, is returning from her travels in support of the women's suffrage movement when she makes a simple offer of assistance to a young woman in need. But things go sadly awry, and both ladies soon find themselves in dire need of rescue. Arabella, always loath to admit she needs help, is particularly reluctant to receive assistance from the arrogant, narrow-minded knight in shining armor who shows up just in time.

Private investigator extraordinaire Mr. Theodore Wilder is on an assignment that began as a favor to his good friend Hamilton Beckett, but swiftly evolved into a merry chase across the country. He is already in a less than pleasant mood, and when Hamilton's sister turns out to have radical ideas and a fiercely independent streak, he's at his wit's end.

Much to their chagrin, Theodore and Arabella's paths continue to cross when they return home to New York, but the most unusual feelings beginning to grow between them certainly can't be anything serious. When the trouble Arabella accidentally stirred up in her travels follows her home and threatens her very life, the unlikely couple must face the possibility that they might have landed in the most peculiar circumstance of all: love.

My Review: I absolutely loved this book! Jen Turano has such a way with words. This fast-paced book is packed with humor, witty dialogue, and intriguing characters. The mystery and danger surrounding the plot kept me guessing until the very end. The romance between Arabella and Theodore was hilarious to watch as each battled their feelings for the other.  The story is very well written and I could picture the characters as they are interacting with one another and getting into one scrape after another. 

Arabella's character is well-written. The struggle she goes through with her self-worth is very natural, especially for a woman. I could relate to it. Theodore's character is also well-written. The progression of his thoughts and character development felt natural and not rushed. Arabella and Theordore find themselves in one "peculiar" circumstance after another, especially their romance! The secondary characters add depth to the story and also provide humorous side stories of their own.

Arabella has to learn, throughout the story, that sometimes it's hard not to judge another's circumstance. It's one thing to talk about caring for others and trying to help them, it's another thing altogether to feel compassion for them and really get to understand them. God wants us to feel that compassion for one another, especially when He calls us to the work we're doing.

Overall, this story was hilarious, enjoyable, and well-written. I really enjoy this author's writings and definitely look forward to the rest of this series!

• Learn more about Jen Turano 
• Follow Jen: Facebook 
• Read my review of A Change of Fortune
• Purchase A Most Peculiar Circumstance: B&N | Amazon | CBD

Wildwood Creek by Lisa Wingate

Overview: With love and loss tangled together, how was she to know where her life would lead?

Allie Kirkland has always heard the call of her father's unfinished destiny. When she's offered a production assistant's job on a docudrama filming in the hills near Moses Lake, Texas, the dream of following in her director-father's footsteps suddenly seems within reach. The reenactment of the legendary frontier settlement of Wildwood is a first step into the film industry. A summer on set in the wilderness is a small price to pay for a dream.

But in 1861, the real Wildwood held dangerous realities. Town founder Harland Delavan held helpless residents, including young Irish schoolteacher Bonnie Rose, in an iron grip. Mysterious disappearances led to myths and legends still retold in the region's folk songs. Eventually, the entire site was found abandoned.

When filming begins, strange connections surface between Allie and the teacher who disappeared over a century ago, and everyone in Wildwood—including Blake Fulton, Allie's handsome neighbor on the film set—seems to be hiding secrets. Allie doesn't know whom she can trust. If she can't find the answers in time, history may repeat itself...with the most unthinkable results.

My Review: I absolutely loved how this book was written.  Switching back and forth between Bonnie Rose and Allie Kirkland's point of view made the story more compelling. The mystery of what happened to Bonnie Rose was well written and captivating. The author chose her writing well because I did not want to put this book down. 

The romance between Blake and Allie was downplayed, and I understand why. There were so many other, more important things going on in this book that the romance would have taken away from. It was clear that they would be a good fit for each other, so I'm glad the author didn't try to force the romance into the story. 

I have mixed feelings about the character development, especially Allie. I feel like her journey of faith could have been played up a little more. There was a Christian theme to the book, but I feel it was a secondary theme to the mystery surrounding Wildwood Creek and Bonnie Rose. I would have liked to see that aspect developed a little more.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story. Even though it is part of the Moses Lake series, this can absolutely be read as a stand alone novel. I look forward to reading more from this author.

*Thank you Bethany House for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*

About the Author: Selected among BOOKLIST'S Top 10 of 2012 and Top 10 of 2013, Lisa Wingate skillfully weaves lyrical writing and unforgettable Southern settings with elements of women's fiction, history, and mystery to create stories that Publisher's Weekly calls "Masterful" and ForeWord Magazine refers to as "Filled with lyrical prose, hope, and healing.” Lisa is a journalist, an inspirational speaker, a reviewer for the New York Journal of Books, and the author of over over twenty novels and countless magazine pieces.

Her books have held positions on many bestseller lists, both in the U.S. and internationally. She is a seven-time ACFW Carol award nominee, a Christy Award nominee, an Oklahoma Book Award finalist, a Christianity Today Book Award nominee, an Inspy Award nominee, a two-time Carol Award winner, a LORIES Best Fiction Award winner, and a Utah Library Award winner. Recently, the group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa along with Bill Ford, Camille Cosby, and six others, as recipients of the National Civies Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life. 

• Learn more about Lisa Wingate 
• Find Lisa: Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest | Southern Belle View Blog 
• Purchase Wildwood Creek: B&N | CBD | Amazon

A Ranger's Trail by Darlene Franklin

A Ranger's Trail is the fourth book in the Texas Trails: A Morgan Family Series. The series was written by a collaboration of three authors: Vickie McDonough, Susan Page Davis, and Darlene Franklin. It's been a great series so far, and I look forward to reading the rest!

Overview: A widow vows to seek vengeance | A Texas Ranger swears to uphold the law | A blood feud splits Mason County in half

When Leta Denning's husband is murdered at the beginning of the Mason County War, she wants one thing: revenge. Buck Morgan, a Texas Ranger called in to investigate, has ties to a German family involved in Denning's death.

Buck's ability to remain impartial and bring the murderer to justice has Leta anxious. As she struggles to keep her ranch afloat, Buck offers to help - all the while searching for the truth.  A tentative trail emerges ... one forged by respect and bound by vengeance and forgiveness.

Doubt meets faith, and fear gives way to faith in the Morgan family.

My Review:  I really enjoyed this book. This is my second book by Darlene Franklin, so I had few expectations for this book. Of course, I wanted it to be as enjoyable as the rest of the series, and I was not disappointed on that account. The first chapter of the book pulls you in. The action is not fast paced, but it's fast enough to keep you interested. The Mason County War reflects the society at the time, and unfortunately, the society of today (to an extent). 

The main characters, and even the secondary characters are pretty well developed throughout the story. Leta Denning's journey from revenge to trusting God's vengeance is natural and Buck Morgan's character undergoes a similar journey. The secondary characters, Andy and Henry, take a more dramatic journey towards the end of the book. Stella is a character I would love to read more about and hope to catch up with her in a later book!

My only complaint is the romance aspect of the book. I agree that Leta and Buck are a good match. However, their romance seemed kind of down played. I almost couldn't detect the point that Buck stopped viewing Leta as a widow that God commands his people to provide for and care for, to someone he wants to spend the rest of his life with.

Over all, the book was very enjoyable and I would recommend it to all my reading friends!

**I received this book free from Moody Publishers in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.**

More fun! with links:

• Learn more about the Texas Trails Series 
• Meet Darlene Franklin 
• Purchase A Ranger's Trail: B&N | Amazon | CBD 
• See my reviews on the rest of the Texas Trials series:
• Lone Star Trail 
• Captive Trail 
• Long Trail Home 

Midnight Sea by Colleen Coble

Happy Wednesday everyone! I'm still trying to recover from the LONG hotel stay we had last week. Charlotte got over 10 inches of snow!!! I'm just glad I didn't have to drive back and forth all week, especially since I have an hour commute! You would think I would have had more time to read last week, but that was just not the case. We were exhausted every night by the time we got back to our rooms, and busy all day during the day! I did finally manage to finish this book, completing my first series of the year!

Overview: "Lani opened her eyes fully, straining to see something, anything. It was as though she swam in a black sea that blacked out all light, all visual sensation. 'I can't see,' she whispered. 'I can't see!' Her shriek rose and echoed off the blackness."

A seemingly random shooting at her aunt's coffee farm has left Lani Tagama blind. Now she must learn to navigate in a world of darkness. With the help of an embittered ex-cop, Ben, and a half-trained guide dog, Fisher, Lani discovers she can regain a shadow of her former independence.

But strange and dangerous secrets lurk behind the beauty of this seaside paradise. Suspicion grows that this was not a random shooting, but an attempted murder, one with its roots in a hippie commune burned over thirty year ago. Lani realizes she is a target, and that she must find the shooter before he strikes again.

My Review: Colleen Coble does it again! I cannot say enough good things about this writer. From the first page, I was hooked. The mystery, suspense, and romance were expertly weaved into a story of deception and trust. The plot was interesting and kept me guessing the entire time.

Lani Tagama was my favorite character. After her ordeal in Black Sands, she becomes a Christian. It's nice to see the human side of someone who is a new Christian. She struggles to put her trust in someone she can't see, and that makes her more real. Ben Mahoney is struggling to cope with the accident that claimed his friend's sight. He is also struggling with trusting the One who controls all things in our lives. The author did a very good job of portraying their development in this area.

The message, as I've stated before, is trust. Learning to trust that God has everything under control, especially when you feel your life is spinning out of control, is hard. Colleen Coble does a great job of weaving that message throughout the story.

Overall, this was a very enjoyable story and I'm sad the series has come to an end. Go read it, today!

• Learn more about Colleen Coble
• Follow Colleen: Twitter | Facebook
• Purchase Midnight Sea: B&N | Amazon | CBD
• Read my reviews of the rest of the Aloha Reef series:
• Distant Echoes 
• Black Sands
• Dangerous Depths 

Dangerous Depths by Colleen Coble

Happy Tuesday everyone! I've finished another exciting book and just couldn't wait to share it with you! I know I've said this before, but I absolutely LOVE Colleen Coble's books. She is a phenomenal writer and I just cannot wait to get my hands on every book written by her!

Overview: Sometimes life's most precious treasure lies at Dangerous Depths.

Leia ditched a promising medical career to settle on a secluded island of Hawaii. She ditched Bane, too, and he's come to the island to find out why. He's also in search of a fortune rumored to lie offshore. But an act of sabotage that pushes Bane closer to Leia plunges them both into a tangle of emotion--just as a series of threatening events grip the island.

Theft, a friend's death, a bizarre intruder, hints of a second treasure...and even murder--how can they sort it all out when everyone on the island has something to hide?

The novels in Colleen Coble's popular Aloha Reef Series combine mystery and suspense with tender romance in an irresistible island setting.

My Review:  As always, Coble does an excellent job of combining the powers of mystery, suspense, and romance. However, I didn't feel as captured by this book as I have the previous three in the series. Don't get me wrong. There are a lot of things I liked about the book, but I just feel like something was missing. 

This book does address a couple hard issues that I haven't encountered in a book before. Leia, the female heroine, has a cleft lip. Her sister, Eva, has Downs Syndrome. Bane suffers from abandonment issues. I love that Coble writes her characters in a more human light. It's hard to relate to someone who's "perfect" on paper.

Overall, the message of the book was still very, very good. The message was one of learning to let go of the past and letting God worry about your future. He knows every hair on your head. He knows the number of days you will live. If He knows that much about you, why can't we trust Him to lead us and help us make decisions? Let go, and let God.

• Learn more about Colleen Coble
• Follow Colleen: Twitter | Facebook
• Purchase Dangerous Depths: B&N | Amazon | CBD 
• Read my reviews of the rest of the Aloha Reef series:
• Distant Echoes 
• Black Sands 

Black Sands by Colleen Coble

Overview:  As a volcano on Hawaii begins to rumble, family crisis brings an unlikely couple together.

Annie's the brainy type, quietly assisting her father in his volcano research. She's always admired her brother's friend Mano for his outgoing athletic ways, but her devotion turns to disdain after Mano's mistake results in her older brother's untimely death.

Mano's mistake haunts him. It cost his best friend's life. But just as he's bringing Tomi's belongings to his family, Mano discovers Tomi is alive—and in serious danger. That danger threatens to spill over to the rest of the family.

Annie and Mano join forces to discover the source of the threat against the family, even as a long-inactive volcano rumbles in the distance.

My Review:  This is another FANTASTIC book by Colleen Coble! I am seriously never disappointed in her works. The characters are relatable and very well developed. Annie Tagama is used to fading into the background. Since her mother's death, she has been the force that desperately tries to hold her family together and is under-appreciated for it. Mano Oana is the brother of Kaia, who was featured in book one of the series. He is protective, loving, and full of guilt that has haunted him since his best friend's death. He is also hiding a secret that he thinks makes him look weak. Can the two overcome their obstacles to accept what God has given them?

The plot grabs you from the prologue. The mystery starts from page one and keeps you guessing (well, it kept ME guessing) until the very end. The twists and turns the author throws in keep you captivated and furiously turning pages! The developing romance between Mano and Annie is sweet and unassuming, as both characters are. I wouldn't want it to be overwhelming or fast. I love Colleen Coble's writing style, period.

The message in this one is about putting God first in your life. For Annie, that is a really hard thing to do. She wants to feel loved and accepted, especially by the family she's given almost her entire life trying to please them. Finding out what you are putting ahead of God is tough. Putting your life priorities in the proper order is even tougher. This brought to mind the acronym of JOY - Jesus Others Yourself. God wants you to put Him first in everything you do, every day. In not doing so, you are missing out on a lot of blessings!

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series soon!

• Learn more about Colleen Coble
• Follow Colleen: Twitter | Facebook
• Purchase Black Sands: B&N | Amazon | CBD
• See my review of Distant Echoes

Distant Echoes by Colleen Coble

Let me just start by saying that I absolutely LOVE Colleen Coble. Her writing never fails to captivate me from the beginning and leave me wanting more at the end. So, it was no surprise that I enjoyed Distant Echoes, the first book in the Aloha Reef series, immensly.

Overview:

It seems like paradise, but dark secrets lurk just below the surface.

When a tragic accident downs a tourist boat off the coast of Hawaii, dolphin researcher Kaia Oana is one of the first in the water, risking her own life to try and save others. She’s enlisted to help the U.S. Navy find out what really happened—utilizing her specially trained dolphins to help.

Kaia and Lieutenant Commander Jesse Matthews team up in the investigation—but as they edge closer to the truth about the incident, their own lives are threatened. Will a spirit of grace and forgiveness prevail or will it be overshadowed by the distant echoes of past pain and the imminent danger from a cold-blooded killer?

Set on the breathtaking Hawaiian island of Kauai, this novel provides an intoxicating mix of romance and suspense with the rhythms of island life.

My Review: The characters, oh the characters! I instantly fell in love with the Oana family because of their devotion to God and each other. I can connect with Kaia (pronounced KIGH-yah) and her feelings of abandonment and hurt. Her character is greatly defined by what happened to her as a child, but the ending was satisfying. The transformation was interesting to read about. Lieutenant Commander Jesse Matthews also has past hurts that define his character. Both him and Kaia are fiercely loyal to those they love and wish they could take all their pain and hurts away.

The story started with a tragic accident and flew from there! I loved the twists and turns Colleen threw in the midst. I also loved how she incorporated the Hawaiian culture throughout the book, because you can tell that it is important to the Oana family. THANK YOU for providing a list of pronunciations and definitions of the Hawaiian words at the end of the book. I highly recommend reading this list BEFORE you read the book. It will help you pronounce the words and names.

The message of the book aligns with the Hawaiian spirit of aloha. The definition of aloha is a warm Hawaiian greeting or parting; love, grace, sentiment, compassion, sympathy, kindness, affection, friendship; to show kindness or remember with affection. Isn't that what God wants us to do?  Doesn't God want us to put aside past hurts and forgive people, just as he has put aside his past hurts and forgiven us?

Overall, I highly recommend this book. I can't believe I waited so long to read it! I am starting the second book today!

• Learn more about Colleen Coble
• Follow Colleen: Twitter * Facebook 
• Buy the book!: B&N * Amazon * CBD