Sixty Acres and a Bride by Regina Jennings

Destitute and grieving, Louise Garner and her beautiful Mexican daughter in law, Rosa, return to Texas and the ranch she called home only to discover that an insurmountable amount of back taxes are due if they wish to retain the property.

Determined to do what she can to assist her disbelieving mother in law, Rosa soon discovers that the vivaciousness and directness that comes naturally to her culture is not always appreciated by the citizens of Caldwell County, Texas.  Scrambling not to offend her mother in law, Rosa despairs as she tries to understand and mimic the customs of the ladies who look upon her with suspicion and even derision.

Weston Garner, a wealthy rancher and nephew to Louise, notices Rosa's beauty and effervescent personality but is disinterested in pursuing any initial attraction he might feel.  Riding himself hard with regret over his wife's death, Weston does not intend to place a woman at risk again.  As Rosa tires of humiliating herself in front of Louise's reserved and somewhat aloof nephew and lives in fear of a neighbour with unsavoury intentions, Louise prompts her to take action in a way that surprises her and changes her life forever.

Regina Jennings' Sixty Acres and a Bride is an excellent debut novel and aside from taking a few chapters to settle into a good rhythm, it is hard to imagine this is Regina's first published work.  Loosely based on the Biblical story of Naomi, Ruth and Boaz, rather than a retelling of the story, there is much for historical romance readers to enjoy.  Weston and Rosa are both heartfelt characters, driven by the joy and torment of their pasts and what they imagine for their futures.  Cultural differences, deeply held fears and plenty of misunderstandings make this an emotional and engaging story of faith, family, love and healing.  Regina's talent with words tells of Rosa and Weston's incandescent attraction with authenticity and respect.  Readers of Rosslyn Elliott, Elizabeth Camden and Kathleen Morgan will want to look up Sixty Acres and a Bride.

With thanks to Bethany for my review copy

As seen at TitleTrakk.com

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character Spotlight on Rosa & Weston
Visit Regina's website and blog
Buy Regina's books at Amazon and Koorong

Wish You Were Here by Beth K Vogt & US Giveaway

Synopsis:~

Kissing the wrong guy days before her scheduled wedding leads Allison to become a runaway bride. But can it also lead to happily ever after?

 

Allison Denman is supposed to get married in five days, but everything is all wrong. The huge wedding. The frothy dress. And the groom. 

Still, kissing the groom’s brother, Daniel, in an unguarded moment is decidedly not the right thing to do. How could she have made such a mistake? It seems Allison’s life is nothing but mistakes at this point. Daniel’s adventures—chronicled through a collection of postcards—have always appealed to Allison’s well-hidden desire for something more. But how can betraying her fiancé’s trust lead to a true happily ever after? 

Can Allison find her way out of this mess? Recognizing she doesn’t have all the answers won’t be easy because she’s used to being in control. To find her way again, she will have to believe that God has a plan for her—one outside her carefully defined comfort zone—and find the strength to let Him lead. 

My take:~

Beth K Vogt's debut novel will tickle your funny bone just as easily as it will thrum your emotions as Allison Denman takes an uncomfortable journey to discover what truly matters in her life and faith.  Beth's writing style is engaging and fresh, her characters very true to life, struggling with rejection, bruised emotions, guilt and confusion.  Witty and poignant, Allison, Seth and Daniel's story generates both laughter and compassion as they muddle their way through their complex responses to the choices they make and as well as those made for them.  I adored Daniel, became frustrated a time or two with Allison and Seth and became totally invested in the outcome.  While the romantic outcome was anticipated, it comes at a cost that in most stories is hidden or played down and it was refreshing that Beth did not shy away from those emotions.  Beth's voice is nothing short of delightful and I am already highly anticipating her next story.

With thanks to Howard for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras

Interview with Beth

Beth's Author Alert

Visit Beth's website 

Buy Beth's books at Amazon or CBD

Learn about the Debutantes' Story Soiree Book Launch

Wildflowers from Winter by Katie Ganshert

Synopsis:~

Like the winter, grief has a season. Life returns with the spring.

A young architect at a prestigious Chicago firm, Bethany Quinn has built the life she dreamed of during her teen years in a trailer park. An unexpected interruption from her estranged mother reveals that tragedy has struck in her hometown and a reluctant Bethany is called back to rural Iowa.

Determined to pay her respects to her past while avoiding any emotional entanglements, she vows not to stay long. But the unexpected inheritance of five hundred acres of farmland and a startling turn of events in Chicago forces Bethany to come up with a new plan.

Handsome farmhand Evan Price has taken care of the Quinn farm for years. When Bethany is left the land, Evan must fight her decisions to realize his dreams. But even as he disagrees with Bethany’s vision, Evan feels drawn to her and the pain she keeps so carefully locked away.

For Bethany, making peace with her past and the God of her childhood doesn’t seem like the path to freedom. Is letting go the only way to new life, love and a peace that she’s not even sure exists?

My take:~

Apparently Katie Ganshert is a debut author ~ she could’ve fooled me! Wildflowers From Winter is an incredible novel from a young woman with a very bright future ahead of her. Tender, insightful and moving, this is the story of up and coming architect Bethany Quinn with a mountain of hurt buried deep in her heart, which threatens to overflow when she is summoned back to her childhood home. Katie plumbs the depths of human grief, childhood desertion, family dysfunction, religious bullying and sacrificial friendship through Bethany’s journey, uprooting pain and unforgiveness to release joy and healing. As Bethany prepares to sell her surprise inheritance, Evan Price struggles with his anger and attraction to the woman who is causing havoc with his future plans. Their relationship develops naturally from genuine dislike to fledgling feelings then deep attraction that neither will allow to soften their hearts. Bethany’s friendship with the grieving Robin is also beautifully told and a reminder of the importance of our friendships with women. Katie has penned a beautiful romance, one to rival Denise Hunter at her best, with an authentic spiritual journey that will bring tears of both compassion and joy to readers. Discovering Katie Ganshert’s writing will be one of my highlights for 2012 and I can’t wait to see her writing career blossom from here.

With thanks to the author for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras

Interview with Katie
Katie's Author Alert

Visit Katie's website and blog

Buy Katie's book at Amazon or Koorong

Trauma Plan by Candace Calvert

Synopsis:~

Sidelined by injuries from a vicious assault, chaplain Riley Hale is determined to return to her former duties as an ER nurse. But how can she show she’s competent when the hospital won’t let her attempt even simple tasks? Determined to prove herself, Riley volunteers at a controversial urban free clinic despite her fears about the maverick doctor in charge.

Dr. Jack Travis defends his clinic like he’s commander of the Alamo. He’ll fight the community’s efforts to shut its doors, even if he must use Riley Hale’s influential family name to make it happen.

As Riley strives to regain her skills, Jack finds that she shares his compassion—and stirs his lonely heart. Riley senses that beneath Jack’s rough exterior is a man she can believe in. But when clinic protests escalate and questions surface about his past, Jack goes into battle mode and Riley wonders if it’s dangerous to trust him with her heart.

My take:~

While Candace Calvert once again gives readers a sigh-worthy hero and an appealing leading lady, she also packs an emotional punch in her first Grace Medical series that may require your own trip to the ER! Championing community clinics and the health professionals that sacrifice lucrative careers to run them, Candace gives readers a fast paced suspense novel with substance and soul. Jack is great character, dedicated and devoted to the homeless people he serves but with a temper that can damage his cause and pulls him from the trap of being the perfect man. Riley’s determination to work her way back into trauma nursing following a devastating injury is incredibly moving and oozes authenticity, no doubt from Candace’s personal experience with her own past severe injury. Trauma Plan will have your heart racing as the story unfolds and is well worth the eighteen month wait. Thankfully Rescue Team (working title) is not so far away!

With thanks to Tyndale for my review copy via NetGalley

Relz Reviewz Extras
Reviews of Critical Care, Disaster Status & Code Triage
Character spotlight on Nick & Leigh from Code Triage
Character spotlight on Scott & Erin from Disaster Status 

Character spotlight on Logan & Claire from Critical Care

Visit Candace's website and blog
Buy Candace's books at Amazon or Koorong

Love's Sacred Song by Mesu Andrews

Synopsis:~

Standing in the massive shadow of his famous father, young king Solomon wavers between fear and bravado, wisdom and folly. In the uncertain world of alliances and treachery, Solomon longs for peace and a love that is true and pure--a love that can be his cornerstone.

A shepherdess in the northern city of Shunem, Arielah remembers the first time she laid eyes on Solomon in Jerusalem when she was just seven years old. Since then she has known that it was her destiny to become his bride. When her father, a leader of their tribe, secures a promise from King Solomon to marry Arielah as a treaty bride to help unite the kingdom, it seems her dreams may come true.

My take:~

Mesu Andrews tackles the challenging and intriguing life of King Solomon in her second novel, Love's Sacred Song, with great talent and insight.  Bringing the intrigue of court life, the spitefulness of his harem and his love for his Shulammite bride to life, Mesu paints a fascinating portrait of Solomon and what might have been.  Solomon, Arielah, Jehoshaphat and Benaiah are stand out characters whose strengths and weaknesses reflect the struggles we face today.  This is a beautiful story that engages heart and mind as Solomon's political wisdom wars with his vulnerability to women. I can't wait to see which Biblical story Mesu tackles next!

With thanks to Revell for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
RBC Book Club interview with Mesu ~ Part 1 & Part 2
Q&A with Mesu
Visit Mesu's website
Buy Mesu's books at Amazon or Koorong

Arms of Love by Kelly Long

Synopsis:~

The year is 1777. America is in turmoil.  And Amish life is far different than today.

Pennsylvania in the late 18^th century, once called William Penn's Woods, was an assortment of different faiths living together for the first time in American history. Included in this tapestry was a small and struggling population called Amish. 

Surrounding this peaceful people were unavoidable threats: both Patriots and the British were pillaging land and goods for the sake of the war, young Amishmen were leaving the faith to take up arms and defend freedom. A simple walk in the untamed forests could result in death, if not from bullet or arrow, then from an encounter with a wild animal. 

Amid this time of tumult, Adam Wyse is fighting a personal battle. To possibly join the war efforts and leave his faith, which would mean walking away from the only woman he's ever loved: Lena Yoder. But for that love he's made a promise that may keep them apart permanently.

When Adam withdraws from Lena, she's forced to turn to his brother, Isaac, for support. Must Lena deny her heart's desire to save Adam's soul? And will life in this feral and primitive New World be more than this peace-keeping people can withstand?

My take:~

If you have spent more than a few minutes browsing my blog, you will notice a dearth of reviews of Amish novels.  As a genre, it simply doesn't appeal to me and I genuinely struggle to understand why these novels flood the Christian fiction market. Now, before anyone runs me over with a buggy, this is not a criticism of the many talented authors who write these stories, it just explains my lack of interest.  So, it goes without saying that an author who can write an Amish novel that I am willing to read is special!  Kelly Long is one such author and she did not disappoint me with Arms of Love, the first book in her Amish Beginnings series and another 'out of the box' Amish novel.  A unique time period, authentic characters and an unrequited love make Arms of Love captivating and emotive.  Adam Wyse, Lena Yoder and Ruth Stone leap from the pages with authenticity as they wrestle sorrow, loss and injustice.  Kelly is not afraid to tackle topics they are rarely found in Amish stories, adding depth and emotion to an intriguing tale.  I had expected the military conflict to have featured more prominently given the synopsis but Kelly included plenty of relational conflict and historical detail, making the journey all the more fascinating.  I can highly recommend Arms of Love and any Kelly Long novel as her talent surpasses any hesitation I feel delving into a genre outside my comfort zone!

With thanks to Thomas Nelson for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras

Visit Kelly's website and blog

Buy Kelly's books at Amazon or Koorong

The Chair by James L Rubart with giveaways

Synopsis:~

If someone gave you a chair and said it was made by Jesus Christ, would you believe them? 

When an elderly lady shows up in Corin Roscoe's antiques store and gives him a chair she claims was crafted by Jesus, he scoffs. But when a young boy is miraculously healed two days after sitting in the chair, he stops laughing and starts wondering . . . could this chair heal the person whose life Corin destroyed twelve years ago? 

As word spreads of the boy's healing, a mega-church pastor is determined to manipulate Corin into turning over the chair. And that mysterious woman who gave him the piece flits in and out of his life like a shadow, insinuating it's Corin's destiny to guard the chair above everything else. But why?

My take:~

I really enjoy Jim Rubart's novels and have no excuse for the lengthy delay in reading his 2011 release, The Chair!  It is another character driven novel with supernatural elements that will stimulate and challenge your thinking.  Corin is an intriguing character, driven by blinding fears yet unafraid to push his body and mind to the edge of all things sane.  Corin's struggle with his past and present reflects what most of us battle, underlying fears, regret and guilt warring with our desire to hope for healing and wholeness.  Jim uses the chair itself to underscore his spiritual message and thankfully resists the pull to tie up all the loose ends.  While ROOMS remains my favourite of Jim's books The Chair is a worthy addition to any book collection.

With thanks to B&H Publishing for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
View the trailer
Review of ROOMS
Character spotlight on Micah Taylor
Interview with Jim
Visit Jim's website and blog
Buy Rooms at Amazon or Koorong

The Chase by DiAnn Mills

Synopsis:~

To the FBI it's a cold case. To Kariss Walker it's a hot idea that could either reshape or ruin her writing career. And it's a burning mission to revisit an event she can never forget. Five years ago, an unidentified little girl was found starved to death in the woods behind a Houston apartment complex. A TV news anchor at the time, Kariss reported on the terrifying case. Today, as a New York Times bestselling author, Kariss intends to turn the unsolved mystery into a suspense novel. Enlisting the help of FBI Special Agent Tigo Harris, Kariss succeeds in getting the case reopened. But the search for the dead girl's missing mother yields a discovery that plunges the partners into a witch's brew of danger. The old crime lives on in more ways than either of them could ever imagine. Will Kariss's pursuit of her dream as a writer carry a deadly price tag? 

Drawing from a real-life cold case, bestselling novelist DiAnn Mills presents a taut collage of suspense, faith, and romance in The Chase.

My take:~

With her trademark suspense and a hint of romance, DiAnn Mills begins a new series about FBI hotshot Tigo Harris and dedicated journalist turned author, Kariss Walker.  Very reminiscent of the TV show Castle, which I found myself distracted by,  Tigo is forced to work with Kariss as she researches FBI practices for her latest novel and neither are happy about the matchup.  DiAnn’s characterisation is excellent,  particularly when it comes to Tigo, a complex and driven man, determined to wage war against the gangs smuggling guns and wreaking havoc in his city.  As these characters will continue in subsequent books the romance element in this story is minimal but it is clear that Kariss and Tigo make an intriguing couple.  The story slowed a little for me about two thirds the way through and I was eager for the action to take off, which it eventually did.  DiAnn honours law enforcement in the depiction of Tigo and his partner, Ryan Steadman as they act to solve what was a real life cold case.  Both Tigo and Kariss struggle with faith issues and I’m looking forward as their journey towards God is revealed.  The Chase is a solid start to this new series.

With thanks to the author for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Bella & Carr

Reviews of Attracted to Fire, Sworn to Protect and Breach of Trust
Interview with DiAnn
Visit DiAnn's website
Buy DiAnn's books at Amazon and Koorong

Cuts Like A Knife by M K Gilroy with giveaway

Synopsis:~

The Killer ...

Chicago has a new resident; a heartless killer on a decade-long crime spree.  When a successful young woman is found dead in her fashionable town home, a red flag goes up in Washington, D.C. The FBI knows an elusive "organized killer" is at work again.  The problem is the Feds have only one tenuous lead to assist local police in the manhunt ... a most unlikely place the killer likes to find his victims.

The Detective ...

Conner, turning thirty, single, light as a feather but tougher than nails—growing up in a cop’s home and taking every hand-to-hand combat course that the Chicago Police Department offers does that—and the coach of her niece’s 7-year-old soccer team, the Snowflakes, becomes a lead detective in her first major homicide case. She’s a good girl—loves her mom, goes to church, only yells when she’s really mad—who just can’t stop fighting with her partner, police department brass, and most of all, her TV news anchor sister, Klarissa, who can turn a single bite of chicken into a 30-minute ordeal of starting, stopping, and starting again. Her mom, sisters, and various suitors all think she’s wonderful—except for her anger and bonding issues.

The Climax ...

From the opening chase scene that leads to a back alley where a Punk with a knife awaits, to the climactic scene where Kristen goes one-on-one with a man who is killing innocent women in her town and now has her in his sights, Cuts Like a Knife, the debut novel from Mark Gilroy, is loaded with action, humor, and wry introspection through the voice of its irrepressible lead character.

My take:~

M. K. (Mark) Gilroy's debut novel, Cuts Like A Knife, is a unique and engaging read, surprisingly humourous for a fast paced thriller which includes a brash female detective and a vicious serial killer.  Initially, the first person present tense was distracting but I soon adjusted to the prose and became invested in Kristen's journey.  Mark does a solid job with Kristen's voice, self deprecating with a sharp edge, reflecting the necessary nature of a homicide detective. Gritty and terse, the action and suspense builds well, dovetailing nicely with Kristen's relationship issues with her devoted mother, her disapproving sisters and the men who dare to seek her out.  Mark's dry wit is fabulous, easing the tension from the intense scenes as the killer's handiwork is discovered.  Cuts Like A Knife is a refreshing addition to the sparse pickings in the CBA for those who enjoy this genre.  I'm intrigued as to where Mark takes Kristen in this series, as he continues to hone his craft.

With thanks to Worthy Publishing and Wynn~Wynn Media for my review copy via NetGalley 

Relz Reviewz Extras
Visit Mark's website 
Buy Mark's book at Amazon or Koorong

 

Cuts Like A Knife from Imperial Pictures on Vimeo.

The Irish Healer by Nancy Herriman with North American giveaway

Synopsis:~

During the deadly 1832 cholera epidemic in London, a heartsick Irish healer must find the strength to overcome her most fearsome obstacles.

Accused of murdering a child under her care, Irish healer Rachel Dunne flees the ensuing scandal while vowing to never sit at another sickbed. She no longer trusts in her abilities-or God's mercy. When a cholera epidemic sweeps through London, she feels compelled to nurse the dying daughter of the enigmatic physician she has come to love. James Edmunds, wearied by the deaths of too many patients, has his own doubts about God's grace. Can they face their darkest fears? Or is it too late to learn that trust and love just might heal their hearts?

My take:~

After reading The Irish Healer, Nancy Herriman's debut novel, it came as no surprise that she has finaled in numerous awards for her non-published works and took home the 2006 RWA Daphne du Maurier award for Best Unpublished Mystery/Romantic Suspense.  In The Irish Healer, Nancy's beautiful prose paints descriptive word pictures of London, her inhabitants and the intriguing Dr Edmunds and secretive Rachel. Infused with threads of mystery, a gently developed romance and struggles with self worth and calling, this story captivates and delights.  In the vein of Siri Mitchell and Julie Klassen, spiritual themes are sensitively woven throughout as each of the characters come to terms with the tragedy of their past lives and open themselves to a future filled with hope and forgiveness.  The Irish Healer holds plenty of promise of an enduring career for the talented Nancy Herriman.

With thanks to Worthy and Wynn~Wynn Media for my review copy via NetGalley

Relz Reviewz Extras

Visit Nancy's website 

Buy Nancy's books at Amazon or Koorong

Dreamspell by Tamara Leigh

Synopsis:~

A time to live. A time to die. A time to dream.

Sleep disorders specialist Kennedy Plain has been diagnosed with a fatal brain tumor. When her research subject dies after trying to convince her he has achieved dream-induced time travel and her study is shelved, she enlists herself as a subject to complete her research. But when she dreams herself into 14th-century England and falls into the hands of Fulke Wynland, a man history has condemned as a murderer, she must not only stay alive long enough to find a way to return to her own time, but prevent Fulke from murdering his young nephews. And yet, the more time she spends with the medieval warrior, the more difficult it is to believe he is capable of committing the heinous crime for which he has been reviled for 600 years.

Baron Fulke Wynland has been granted guardianship of his brother’s heirs despite suspicions that he seeks to steal their inheritance. When the king sends a mysterious woman to care for the boys, Fulke is surprised by the lady's hostility toward him--and more surprised to learn she is to be his wife. But when his nephews are abducted, the two must overcome their mutual dislike to discover the boys' fate. What Fulke never expects is to feel for this woman whose peculiar speech, behavior, and talk of dream travel could see her burned as a witch. 

My take:~

Adored for her contemporary chick lit flavoured inspirational fiction, Tamara Leigh proves she is equally at home in the 14th century with her self published time travel romance, Dreamspell.  Tamara commenced her writing career penning medieval romance novels for the general market and her talent for historical romance is on display in this substantial and engaging story.  Fulke captures the imagination from the get go as he faces the hangman's noose for a heinous crime, a medieval warrior with a captive heart.  Kennedy is an intriguing woman, facing death of another kind, daring to dream of a life beyond her consciousness.  While cheating death in one world by travelling to another, Kennedy faces danger of an equally unrelenting nature as rumours she is a witch take flight.  Dreamspell is a novel of deep passion while remaining a clean read but unlike Tamara's contemporary novels, you will not find an overtly spiritual message.  Tamara's considerable gifts for character development, historical detail and palpable attraction with garner her devoted readers in this genre.  Fulke and Kennedy engaged me completely as they battled fear, attraction, betrayal and heartache and their journey will appeal to fans of Lisa Bergren's River of Time series and Linda Windsor's medieval romances.  Like Siri Mitchell, Tamara shows she can make the transition from romantic comedies to historical romance with ease and I am confidant Dreamspell will be the first of many successful historical novels from this gifted writer.

With thanks to the author for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras

Buy Dreamspell for your e-reader or PC for the introductory price of $2.99
Review of Restless in Carolina and Character spotlight on Bridget & J.C.

Review of Leaving Carolina and Character spotlight on Piper & Axel

Review of Nowhere, Carolina and Character spotlight on Maggie & Reece

Interview with Tamara

Visit Tamara's new look website (she has great recipes, too!)
Buy Tamara's books at Amazon or Koorong

A Texan's Honor by Shelley Gray with giveaway

Synopsis:~

Texas, 1874. Years ago, Will McMillan had fought in the open, next to his Captain, Clayton Proffitt. Now he's waging another war undercover, pretending to be a member of the notorious Walton Gang.

But when a hostage situation goes awry and an innocent woman is in the middle of the fray, Will knows he must protect her no matter what happens. Even if his cover is blown. Even if they risk being killed by his gang or by the lawmen on their trail. Even if the woman he's risking everything for will never love him back.

My take:~

Well known for her Amish novels, Shelley Gray continues to impress me with her engaging Western romances novels, the most recent, A Texan's Honor, the second in her Heart of a Hero series. Beautifully told, with another appealing yet imperfect hero and a heroine who grows in strength and determination, A Texan's Honor is a terrific read for those who love their romance with some solid action and a little edge. Shelley's character development is excellent as she balances Will's dangerous and risk taking nature with his protective instincts and respect for Jamie. Their relationship slowly unfolds, as they battle attraction, duty and deeply held fears. Great pacing, solid dialogue and the appearance of the enigmatic and brutal Scout Proffitt, the estranged brother of Clayton Proffitt, add up to a compelling and intriguing read. Readers are in for a treat when they pick up this series and and I'm  really looking forward to Scout's story in Shelley's October release, A Texan's Promise!

With thanks to Abingdon Press for my review copy via NetGalley

Relz Reviewz Extras

Visit Shelley's website and blog

Buy Shelley's books from Amazon or Koorong

The Sound of Red Returning by Sue Duffy

Talented concert pianist Liesl Bower has made a comfortable life for herself, putting her tragic past behind her including the suspicion that fifteen years ago she has colluded with her mentor and friend to betray her country to the Russians. As she performs an intimate concert in the White House, it is not the president's presence that intimidates her but another face in the audience, one she had hoped never to see again. That night Liesl's life erupts into one of fear and danger as American and Russian agents fight to discover a secret Liesl didn't know she had.

With agents pressing her for revelations, Liesl returns to her beloved Charleston home and into the lives of a grandfather and grandson whose faith and fortitude challenge Liesl's prejudice and self-protection. As a new Cold War edges closer, Liesl must choose the extent to which she is willing to sacrifice for her country, and for love.

Sue Duffy has written a gem of a suspense novel with a whisper of romance, set amidst political intrigue and international espionage. With likeable protagonists wrestling with complex relationships, Sue creates great pacing and suspense as Liesl and her small entourage seek to find the key that the CIA and Russian spys are racing to discover. Joining forces with unemployed journalist Cade O'Brien and his feisty grandfather Ian, gives Liesl opportunity to wrestle with her damaged faith and this aspect of the novel is woven in smoothly. Ian is a great character, an old school patriot whose presence injects plenty of humour and heart into the tale. Russian, American and Israeli involvement leads the reader through numerous twists and turns while Liesl and Cade's attraction unfolds and a family tragedy takes a surprising turn.  While the involvement of civilians in the protection of an important American asset seemed a little unrealistic, Duffy has penned an engaging story reminiscent of Cold War spy novels and films and has given readers much to anticipate in this ongoing series.

As seen at TitleTrakk

With thanks to Litfuse for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Visit Sue's website 
Buy Sue's books at Amazon or Koorong

Words Spoken True by Ann H Gabhart

Synopsis:~

Adriane Darcy was practically raised in her father's newspaper offices. She can't imagine life without the clatter of the press and the push to be first to write the news that matters. Their Tribune is the leading paper in Louisville in 1855. Then Blake Garrett, a brash young editor from the North with a controversial new style of reporting, takes over failing competitor the Herald, and the battle for readers gets fierce.

When Adriane and Blake meet at a benefit tea, their surprising mutual attraction is hard to ignore. Still, Blake is the enemy, and Adriane is engaged to the son of a powerful businessman who holds the keys to the Tribune's future. Blake will stop at almost nothing to get the story--and the girl. Can he do both before it's too late?

My take:~ 

I've always enjoyed Ann Gabhart's books but Words Spoken True tops them all.  With a unique and determined heroine, danger aplenty and sparks galore, Ann has written a delightful romance with the intriguing backdrop of the golden era of newspaper journalism.  Historically fascinating, Ann explores the heyday of newspapers and their significant influence on the political climate of the day, the intrigue and often cut throat nature of editors is brought to the fore.  Adriane and Blake offer lots of romantic tension as their competitive natures collide with their palpable attraction.  While the villain is easily recognisable, the story unfolds well and the pacing keeps interest from page to page.  Ann has ramped up the ante in this book and I look forward to reading more of her stories in this style.  Those who enjoy Deeanne Gist and Karen Witemeyer will find plenty to love in Words Spoken True.

Available February 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group

With thanks to Revell for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Reviews of Angel Sister, The Outsider, The Believer and The Seeker
Visit Ann's website and blog
Buy Ann's books at Amazon or Koorong

The Maid of Fairbourne Hall by Julie Klassen

When her scheming stepfather determines to wed her to his conniving nephew Margaret Macy knows she must take desperate measures in order to avoid a matrimonial disaster.  Disguising herself as a housemaid and deserting London for the country town of Maidstone, Margaret discovers her privileged life has left her completely unprepared for manual work and the ignominies of being a servant.  Shocked to discover she has been employed at Fairbourne Hall, the home of the Upchurch brothers - Nathaniel whom she rejected and Lewis who had found her wanting.

Nathaniel Upchurch has too long remained in his flamboyant and handsome brother's shadow.  As he returns from the family's Barbados sugar plantation to balance the books at home, Nate spurns the woman who painfully rejected his suit but his heart refuses to follow his head.  When she disappears Nate is left to ponder what might have been.

As Margaret tries to hide her fumbling ignorance of household chores and remain unrecognised, her stepfather is on the prowl, spreading rumours and scheming ways to flush her out from hiding.  Sharing life with people she would have barely noticed in her former life, Margaret learns that kindness and loyalty cannot be bought and first impressions should not be lasting.

Julie Klassen has penned another exceptional Regency era historical romance with  the beautifully rendered The Maid of Fairbourne Hall.  Classic prose, multi faceted characters and an entertaining upstairs downstairs plot make this story a joy to read.  Heralded as a contemporary Jane Austen, Klassen writes with insight, wit and depth.  From fascinating historical details that make the Hall and its inhabitants come alive, to the engaging characters of Margaret, Nate, Hudson and Joan and the mysterious villain, this novel is enthralling in every aspect.  Nate is enjoyably reminiscent of the brooding yet vulnerable John Thornton of Elizabeth Gaskell's North & South while Margaret's eye opening transformation from self focused debutante to humble servant is unmissable.  Simply put, The Maid of Fairbourne Hall is a delightful pleasure, a story to savour more than once.  Klassen's star continues to shine brightly indeed!

As seen at TitleTrakk.com

With thanks to Bethany for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Reviews of The Silent Governess, The Apothecary's Daughter & Lady of Milkweed Manor
Character spotlight on Olivia and Lord Bradley
Character spotlight on Mariah & Matthew

Character spotlight on Lilly
Visit Julie's website
Buy Julie's books at Amazon or Koorong

Bourne by Lisa T Bergren

Battle weary and injured, Marcello returns to his beloved Gabriella as danger still knocks at the castello gates.  Luca continues to woo Lia as she contemplates her future in the 14th century and Lord Rodolfo Greco faces inner demons that threaten to overtake him, mind and soul.  Travel once again to the River of Time in this ebook novella.

Honour. Sacrifice. Love. Make no mistake, words such as these are the lifeblood of Lisa T Bergren's River of Time series, and Bourne breathes life once again into the Bettarini sisters, their heroic Italian knights and the enigmatic Lord Rodolfo Greco. Bourne picks up where Torrent left off, as Marcello, Luca and Greco return from battle with physical wounds and emotional scars that are dangerously unseen. Written from both Gabi and Lia's perspectives, the girls continue to grapple with their 14th century home and the need to hide their true origins. Gabi realizes her new role at the castello brings unexpected responsibilities and sacrifice; Lia is forced to confront her feelings over the men in her life; Greco's reckless behaviour exposes his unfathomable pain; and Luca is forced to face his fears. Bergren's writing is evocative and intense, brilliantly captivating with a timeless appeal to any lover of exceptional storytelling. Bourne is an impressive addition to the unmissable River of Time series ~ simply put, I loved it and desperately want some more!

With thanks to the author for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character interviews with Luca,  Lia, Gabi and Marcello 
Reviews of Waterfall & Cascade
Character spotlight on Gabi, Marcello, Luca & Lia
Character spotlight on Lord Greco
Visit Lisa's author website and her travel website
Buy Lisa's books at Amazon or Koorong