Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Bella & CarrReviews 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
Sunday, 8 April 2012
The Chase by DiAnn Mills
Tuesday, 1 November 2011
Attracted to Fire by DiAnn Mills
Special Agent Meghan Connors' dream of one day protecting the president of the United States is about to come true. Only one assignment stands in her way. After the vice president's rebellious daughter is threatened, Meghan is assigned to her protective detail on a secluded ranch in West Texas. Unfortunately, working with Special Agent in Charge Ash Zinders may be as tough as controlling her charge. Ash has a reputation for being critical and exacting, and he's also after the same promotion as Meghan. But when the threats escalate and security on the ranch is breached, it becomes clear this isn't the work of a single suspect-it's part of a sophisticated plan that reaches deeper and higher than anyone imagined. And only Ash and Meghan can put the pieces together before it's too late.
My take:~
In the dusty and remote setting of a swanky West Texas ranch, DiAnn Mills creates a story of two dedicated and fiercely independent Special Agents, out to prove themselves in order to be the first to a coveted promotion. Unprepared for an emotional connection with each other, they scramble to deny their feelings and focus on their protectee, the wild and defiant presidential daughter. It took me a little while to engage in this story but the second half had me invested in the outcome. The tension and dislike between Ash and Meghan was palpable, and believable given their natures and goals in life, and it was fun to see those feelings soften into attraction during the story. I also enjoyed the journey Lindsay takes from an over indulged and self destructive child to a woman determined to not let set backs take her down. The antagonist became clear to me early on in the story but there are numerous twists that made me wonder about others' involvement. Be aware DiAnn's novels are character driven rather that laden with action so Attracted to Fire will appeal to readers who like their suspense at a slower pace. With solid spiritual themes, DiAnn continues to provide fans with good quality romantic suspense with enjoyable characters.
With thanks to Tyndale House for my review copy via NetGalley
Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Bella & CarrReviews of Sworn to Protect and Breach of Trust
Interview with DiAnn
Visit DiAnn's website
Buy DiAnn's books at Amazon and Koorong
Friday, 5 August 2011
Coming in 2012 from Zondervan
Here's some more cover love for you to chat about, this time from Zondervan. I'm also keen to read these books.
I actually really like these covers! Yes, Covenant of War and The Chase have faces but I like the darker colours and grittiness of them both, especially Cliff's book :)
Coming Home looks fabulous ~ love the roses and simplicity of it.
Your thoughts?
Covenant of War by Cliff Graham
The year is 993 BC. After years of bloody civil war, Eleazar son of Dodai, one of King David’s most elite warriors, wants nothing more than to finally live peacefully in the land.
But on the plains near the Great Sea, a terrifying army of Philistines has mobilized to crush the Hebrew tribes once and for all. In the sun-drenched valleys and dark forests of the hill country, Eleazar and his warriors make their stand against Israel’s deadliest enemy. The fate of an entire nation rests on the courage of a small band of heroes known as the Mighty Men.
In a land torn by conflict, depleted by drought and threatened by treachery, the horrors and heroism of the ancient battlefields come to life.
Covenant of War is the second book in the Lion of War series—the intense, gritty, and stylistic portrayal of the Mighty Men of Israel, a rag-tag band of warriors who came to King David in his most desperate hour and fought with him while he claimed the throne he was destined to fill. Their legendary deeds are recorded in 2 Samuel 23 and 1 Chronicles 11.
February, 2012
Coming Home by Stacy Hawkins Adams
If forgiving your ex-husband was easy, everybody would do it.
Brent had cheated on Dayna and coldly said goodbye to her seven long years ago—dashing her hopes of having children or growing old with the love of her life. Working hard to make herself successful as a hospital executive, Dayna has moved on, finding comfort in a new dating relationship with a faith-filled colleague, Warren.
But when Brent resurfaces on her doorstep at just the wrong time, Dayna’s heart threatens to come unglued. Why is Brent asking for forgiveness now? And why are he and his new wife, Tamara, interested in reconciliation with Dayna? The unbelievable answers begin to surface as Brent boldly asks Dayna to support him at the most crucial time of his life.
While Tamara’s heart brims with guilt, both women will discover what it means to reach beyond pain and baggage to love unconditionally, leaving the consequences to God.
February, 2012
The Chase by DiAnn Mills
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.
March, 2012
Wednesday, 6 July 2011
Under A Desert Sky by DiAnn Mills
When Eva Fortier’s grandfather is murdered, her attorney urges her to leave New York and take refuge in the high desert area of New Mexico.
Leaving her life of wealth behind, Eva attempts to make sense of the tragedies in her life. Navajo David Benally has his hands full taking care of his people’s medical needs. But when his father asks him to help fulfill a vow made to Eva’s father, he has no choice but to oblige. He views Eva as a spoiled rich girl...until he sees her strength in the midst of life-threatening danger.
My take:~
DiAnn Mills' latest historical novel, Under A Desert Sky, tackles an inter racial relationship, a murderous vendetta and the journey of a woman determined to survive against all odds. I enjoyed the character of Tahoma immensely, a man caught between his cultural roots and the desires of his family and community and his modern education and new found faith. DiAnn authentically addresses the hurdles Eva and Tahoma face in light of their attraction with great dialogue and internal ponderings. Tahoma's parents and the rough and ready Rex are great minor characters who add depth and personality to the story. The suspense moves along at a steady pace making Under A Desert Sky a solid and engaging read.
With thanks to the author and Summerside Press for my review copy
Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Ember & John
Review of A Woman Called Sage
Interview with DiAnn
Visit DiAnn's website
Buy DiAnn's books at Amazon and Koorong
Sunday, 8 May 2011
Coming soon from DiAnn Mills and Tyndale House
Diane Mills' latest contemporary suspense releases this October from Tyndale House.
While I look forward to reading the story, I'm not so keen on the cover. How about you?
Attracted to Fire by DiAnn Mills
Special Agent Meghan Connors’ dream of one day protecting the president of the United States is about to come true. Only one assignment stands in her way. After the vice president’s rebellious daughter is threatened, Meghan is assigned to her protective detail on a secluded ranch in West Texas. Unfortunately, working with Special Agent in Charge Ash Zinders may be as tough as controlling her charge.
Ash has a reputation for being critical and exacting, and he’s also after the same promotion as Meghan. But when the threats escalate and security on the ranch is breached, it becomes clear this isn’t the work of a single suspect—it’s part of a sophisticated plan that reaches deeper and higher than anyone imagined. And only Ash and Meghan can put the pieces together before it’s too late.
October, 2011
Thursday, 10 March 2011
The Fire in Ember by DiAnn Mills
When rancher and part time lawman, John Timmons, rescues a scruffy young boy from hanging over a stolen horse, he had no idea the trouble he is inviting into his ranch, his family and his heart.
Bert knows trouble is hot on her heels when she attempts to return a horse her outlaw brothers stole from the rightful owner. Saved by a man she should fear most, her efforts to keep her gender a secret backfire but she guards her identity in the hope her past life will not endanger the Timmons family.
Bert's initial deceit and her subsequent refusal to reveal her name anger John yet does little to quench his curiosity or his attraction to her.
Tensions rise as John discovers he is not the only Timmons brother who dares hope for a future with Bert and as cattle thieves strike at the heart and livelihood of Colorado ranchers, John is faced with the fear her name is not the only thing she is hiding from him.
DiAnn Mills skilfully combines history, romance and suspense in The Fire in Ember. Taking readers back to Colorado in the late 1800s, the setting for A Woman Called Sage, DiAnn once again provides an entertaining read with an intriguing heroine. Readers of A Woman Called Sage will remember John Timmons as Parker Timmons' nephew, who recklessly chased after the men who had murdered his father and kidnapped his baby brother. The Fire in Ember is easily read as a standalone novel yet small cameos by Parker & Sage will please faithful readers.
Now grown, and responsible for his widowed mother and four younger brothers, John makes no time for following his own heart. Character driven, DiAnn draws out the struggle John has with his desires and the responsibility he feels towards his family. In the same vein, Bert's journey is heartfelt as she battles to move beyond the physical and emotional scars inflicted at the hands of her brothers, always wondering at her worth in the eyes of the Timmons family, especially John. DiAnn knows her audience well and serves up a spirited adventure and a tender romance with spiritual threads woven throughout. The Fire in Ember will more than satisfy historical romance fans and have them keen for more from DiAnn Mills.
As seen at TitleTrakk.com
With thanks to TitleTrakk and Zondervan for my review copy
Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Ember & John
Review of A Woman Called Sage
Interview with DiAnn
Visit DiAnn's website
Buy DiAnn's books at Amazon and Koorong
Tuesday, 1 February 2011
DiAnn Mills ~ FamilyFiction Plus
for the third edition of the FamilyFiction magazine.
I can now share my complete interview with DiAnn on writing, Sudan and her latest novel, The Fire in Ember ~ enjoy!
What make
s your latest character, Ember Farrer, unique?
Ember dreamed of a life free of physical and mental pain. She found the courage to escape her family’s abuse, but running didn’t release the shackles that kept her chained to her past. Ember had to reach deep inside for the faith and courage to face her problems and be rid of her fears forever.
In your research for The Fire in Ember, what was an interesting fact you discovered about the time period, people or Colorado?
The most noteworthy discovery was the people’s willingness to make sacrifices for those they loved. They shared their time, resources, faith, food, and whatever they had so others wouldn’t go without. Their unity of purpose is a trait we could use today.
How does writing an historical novel differ from a contemporary tale?
Historical novels involve a slower pace. Although the facts about the people and the setting are sometimes hard to find, history is unchanging. I find a historical is easier to write. A contemporary story involves the latest technology, world happenings, politics, and a complex world that changes moment-by-moment.
With over 50 books to your name, what continues to inspire you to write?
I have so many stories floating around in my head. Every time I hear an inter
esting tidbit of history or observe the media, a story begins to form. I don’t think I’ll ever run out of plot ideas.
God has blessed me with the gift of imagination and writing. The two form a dynamic that I can’t ignore.
What do you hope readers take away from your novels?
A common theme is for my characters to release those things from the past that hold them back from being all that God has purposed for them. Often they must forgive themselves or others before they can enjoy a life of peace.
You are passionate about the people of Sudan ~ please share how that came about
In 2002, I became aware of the plight of the Sudanese—their sufferings and their incredible faith. I was saddened to see how they were persecuted by the northern government for their Christianity. Their homes were destroyed, families killed, and daughters taken into slavery. During the writin
g of a nonfiction book, Lost Boy No More, I met many wonderful Sudanese who practiced their Christianity and worked to make their country a better place to live. I’ve visited Southern Sudan, and I’ve seen faith in action. I wrote the nonfiction book with Abraham Nhial, one of the Lost Boys, who is now the bishop of the Aweil Diocese in Southern Sudan.
I also wrote two novels about the persecuted southern Sudanese, When the Lion Roars and When the Nile Runs Red. These books reflected the lives of three people, who varied in their views about how the south should be free.
Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Ember & John
Review of A Woman Called Sage
Interview with DiAnn
Visit DiAnn's website
Buy DiAnn's books at Amazon and Koorong
Read FamilyFiction's third edition
Monday, 24 January 2011
Character Spotlight ~ DiAnn Mills' Ember Farrar & John Timmons

Prolific author, DiAnn Mills returns with another historical romance and suspense novel in The Fire in Ember. If you have read A Woman Called Sage you will enjoy catching up with John Timmons again!
Over to you, DiAnn:~
Ember Farrar
Brief physical description Ember Farrar is a young woman with honey-colored hair, large brown eyes, and a small frame.
Think Jessica Alba.
Strengths and weaknesses
Ember has the gift of song, lyrics and composing music. She also has a great capacity to love.
Her weaknesses stem from her brothers‘ bullying. They convinced her that she was worthless, leaving her afraid to trust and lacking in self-confidence.
This is not so much a quirk but something unique about Ember. She’s always composing songs in her head. It helps her cope with life and its challenges.
Your inspiration for the character
For years I had Ember’s story dancing in my head. I could see this young woman, who looked like a boy, facing a hanging. One shot from the hero’s rifle blew a hole right through the rope around her neck.
Ember (Bert) is feisty, compassionate, musically gifted, and a hard worker. No wonder John Timmons fell in love with her!
John Timmons
John Timmons is medium height, broad shouldered young man. He has thick brown hair and blue eyes.
Think Dale Midkiff
Strengths and weaknesses
John is strong in mind and body. He accepts responsibility like a thirsty man craves water. He’s helped his mother work their ranch and raise his four younger brothers since his teens.
But his strengths feed into his weaknesses. He doesn’t take time for himself and all he knows is work.
Not really - just a workaholic and that’s not a quirk. :)
Your inspiration for the character
I introduced John in A Woman Called Sage. He impressed me then as a young man who could learn from his mistakes. He was a hard worker and determined to better himself. His role as Deputy Sheriff in The Fire in Ember is an extension of his commitment to keep people safe.
Background to the story
Some of the characters in this stand alone novel appeared in A Woman Called Sage. The setting is the same, only a few years later. John Timmons played a role in A Woman Called Sage. In that book, he was a stubborn teen who thought he could bring in a gang of outlaws who’d killed his father. He’s learned a few lessons over the years, but nothing prepared him for Ember.As always, DiAnn, it is a pleasure to have you visit Relz Reviewz ~ thanks for sharing about your latest characters.

On Thursday, the spotlight shines on Julie Klassen's Mariah Aubrey & Capt Matthew Bryant from The Girl in the Gatehouse.
Relz Reviewz Extras
Review of A Woman Called Sage
Interview with DiAnn
Visit DiAnn's website
Buy DiAnn's books at Amazon and Koorong
Wednesday, 12 January 2011
Coming in 2011 from Summerside Press
After returning early from our camping holiday due to rain, I know no better way than to start back at Relz Reviewz by sharing some new books!
Summerside Press (now in the Guideposts stable) continues to expand its range of novels in its various series. Enjoy this look at what is coming up this year. I'm certainly looking forward to reviewing many of them.
How about you? Any going to make your wishlist?
Signature Series
The Blackbe
rry Bush by David Housholder
Who are You, and what are you doing here?
Two babies—Kati and Josh—are born on opposite sides of the world at the very moment the Berlin Wall falls. You’d think such a potent freedom metaphor would become the soundtrack for their lives, but nothing could be further from the truth. Despite his flawless image, Josh, an artistic and gifted California skateboarder, struggles to find his true role in the world, and his growing aggression eventually breaks him.
Kati, a German with a penchant for classic Swiss watches and attic treasure-hunting, is crushed with disappointment for never being “enough” for anyone—most especially her mother. Craving liberation, Kati and Josh seem destined to claim their birthright of freedom together. After all, don’t the “chance” encounters transform your life…or are they really chance?
June, 2011
Love Letters in the Sand by Diann Hunt
The tide of World War II washed away her happily-ever-after dreams and left heartbreak in its wake, but Eva Hilton dares to consider another chance at love.
However, the jilted teacher’s past catches up with her when battle-scarred Paul Sommerfeld re-enters her life in 1957. Together they attempt to navigate the shifting sands of their relationship as painful truths come to light. Will Eva ultimately discover that, though the tide washed away their once-upon-a-time love letters in the sand, she and Paul have a love that will be forever written upon their hearts?
June, 2011
Unforgetta
ble by Trish Perry
Rachel Stanhope tries to see the good in everyone. But Josh Reegan tests even her good graces when they meet outside her Arlington, Virginia, dance studio in 1951. He’s attractive, yet his cynicism and cockiness are hard to tolerate.
A journalist and former World War II Air Force pilot, Josh considers ballroom dancing a frivolous waste of time. Although Rachel’s confident nature is a refreshing challenge, he wouldn’t tangle with her if his newspaper hadn’t assigned him to cover her studio’s competition in New York City.
Between the melodrama of ballroom antics and the real drama of political corruption, Rachel and Josh have their hands full. The last thing either of them expects is mutual need and support. But once they stop dancing around the truth, the results are unforgettable.
March, 2011
Historical Romance
Under A Desert Sky by DiAnn Mills
When Eva Fortier’s grandfather is murdered, her attorney urges her to leave New York and take refuge in the high desert area of New Mexico.
Leaving her life of wealth behind, Eva attempts to make sense of the tragedies in her life. Navajo David Benally has his hands full taking care of his people’s medical needs. But when his father asks him to help fulfill a vow made to Eva’s father, he has no choice but to oblige. He views Eva as a spoiled rich girl...until he sees her strength in the midst of life threatening danger.
June, 2011
Dateline: 1921—Northern Rhodesia and New York, New York.
Lizzie MacTavis is determined to remain with the people with whom God called her to work along the banks of the rugged Zambezi River in southern Africa.
Andrew Styles, an anthropologist and explorer, has been commissioned to bring Lizzie back to New York City at any cost. With a fortune at stake, Lizzie is caught between two worlds when she is finally forced to return to the United States and discovers her life is in danger. Will Andrew turn out to be Lizzie’s nemesis or hero?
March, 2011
Love Finds You Series
Love Finds You in Tombstone, Arizona by Miralee Ferrell
Love and second chances aren’t easy to come by in a town named Tombstone.
When Christy Grey receives an urgent summons to Tombstone, Arizona, she reluctantly leaves her new life in California. The trip goes from bad to worse when three masked men hold up Christy’s stage. She finally arrives in Tombstone to find her mother ill and her brother trapped in a life of gambling. Desperate for money to support her family, will Christy bow to pressure from the local saloon owners and return to the life she thought she’d given up for good?
Nevada Keene has problems of his own. He’s been dodging bullets for years and wants nothing more than to settle down and get married. But he’s on the run from outlaws bent on revenge, and the one woman who captures his interest recognizes him from the stagecoach holdup. Will Christy turn Nevada in to the authorities, or will the outlaws on his trail catch him first?
February, 2011
Love Finds You i
n Camelot, Tennessee by Janice Hanna
Steve Garrison is the newly elected mayor of the tiny town of Camelot, Tennessee.
When his childhood friend Amy Hart comes up with a plan to revive the town’s economy, he jumps on board. The townspeople will perform the musical “Camelot” in the city’s park, drawing in nightly crowds. While excitement is high, talent is lacking. Amy casts several of the parts but is stumped when it comes to the role of King Arthur.
In desperation, she turns to Steve. Will he pull the sword from the stone and save the day? Steve reluctantly agrees—on one condition. In exchange for his willingness to wear tights, Amy must play the role of Guinevere. And when a handsome newcomer cast as Lancelot takes an interest in Amy, the stage is set for a little tension—and perhaps love.
February, 2011
Love Finds You in Prince Edward Island, Canada by Susan Page Davis
In the summer of 1860, Prince Edward Island is astir.
Its citizens eagerly anticipate the arrival of the first member of the British royal family to visit the island. Molly Orland is too poor to be invited to the ball, but she and several other local young women are thrilled when they’re hired as extra staff at the lieutenant governor’s house, where the young Prince of Wales will be a guest.
Peter Stark has arrived a few days in advance of the royal party to make sure arrangements are suitable for the prince. He is attracted to the beauty of the island—and to a young local girl named Molly, whom he’s determined to shield from the notorious antics of the playboy prince. When Peter and Molly discover a long-buried secret that could bring shame to his royal employer, will he remain a loyal servant—or help Molly’s family get the justice they deserve?
April, 2011
Love Finds You in
Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts by Melody Carlson
Artist Waverly Brennan wants a fresh start.
She gets her chance when her ever-quirky mother calls to say she’s purchased a gallery in Martha’s Vineyard and would love Waverly’s help setting it up. Enticed by visions of running a classy art gallery, Waverly is in. But after she burns her bridges in Chicago, Waverly arrives in Vineyard Haven only to discover that her mother’s “gallery” isn’t quite what she had envisioned.
Stuck on the island for the summer, Waverly attempts to make the best of it. She starts painting again and soon finds other motivations to stick around—such as Blake Erikson and his charming daughter. As she falls more in love with the island, Waverly begins to wonder if it all looks too good to be true.
Will she give the charming town—and Blake—a chance?
April, 2011
Love Finds You in Groom, Texas by Janice Hanna
The year is 1914, and Jake O’Farrell has gained an unusual reputation among the locals.
He’s played the roles of groomsman and best man in all four of his older brothers’ weddings, but he’s never been able to find the right woman to capture his heart. And with the upcoming wedding of his best friend, Jake will become the last single man in the town of Groom.
Anne Denning has made the difficult decision to move with her sisters to Dallas, but just outside of Amarillo, a train derailment forces them and the other passengers to seek shelter in nearby Groom. Mrs. O’Farrell, hopeful that at least one of the Denning sisters will catch her youngest son’s eye, invites the girls to stay at her home until the train is ready to pull out. Anne has no clue of the blissful chaos that lies ahead!
June, 2011
Love Finds You in Amana, Iowa by Melanie Dobson
As the rest of the nation is embroiled in Civil War, the Amana Colonies remain peaceful.
Amalie Wiese arrives in the newly built village of Amana in 1863 only to find that her betrothed, Friedrich, has left to fight with the Union army. Amalie tries to overcome her worries as she sets up a communal kitchen. She hopes that working alongside Friedrich’s best friend will provide some comfort, but Matthias is abrupt and cold.
Little does Amalie know that Matthias has been in love with her since childhood but will not betray Friedrich by pursuing her friendship. When Matthias himself leaves for the battlefront to deliver supplies to the soldiers, war wages in Amalie’s own heart. Will love claim victory?
June, 2011
Monday, 15 November 2010
Pursuit of Justice by DiAnn Mills
Synopsis:~
Special Agent Bella Jordan is assigned to investigate a series of murders in West Texas that are linked to the Spider Rock Treasure. Since she spent the first fifteen years of her life in this area, FBI authorities believe she can get the job done. What they don't know is that one of their prime suspects-a man who's been on their wanted list for years-is deeply connected to Bella's past.
The other prime suspect is Carr Sullivan, the man who owns the ranch where the murders occurred. Carr was once one of the wealthiest businessmen in Dallas and has a shady past a mile long. But it appears he's turned his life around. Can Bella trust him, or is he just trying to cover his tracks?
My take:~The third instalment of DiAnn Mills Call of Duty series, Pursuit of Justice, combines romance, suspense and lost treasure on a West Texas ranch that is a haven to its former playboy owner, Carr Sullivan. Special Agent Bella Jordan has her sights set on capturing the man who has taken the lives of treasure hunters and Carr Sullivan fits the bill. DiAnn’s romantic suspense novels are always enjoyable with a solid combination of adventure and attraction between her well drawn characters. Bella and Carr have fascinating back stories which DiAnn utilises well as they battle mutual suspicion and fascination. Much of the action takes place behind the scenes or without great detail which will appeal to the more sensitive suspense reader but I miss being more a part of the action. That being said, DiAnn is a skilful writer of appealing characters and her books are always on my wishlist so I’ll be looking out for her next suspense release, for sure!
With thanks to the author for my review copy
Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Bella & Carr
Reviews of Sworn to Protect and Breach of Trust
Interview with DiAnn
Visit DiAnn's website
Buy DiAnn's books at Amazon and Koorong














