Murder at the Flamingo by Rachel McMillan Audiobook Review

Murder at the Flamingo
by Rachel McMillan

From Thomas Nelson, audiobook narration by Kristin James

This is my first book that I've read by Canadian author, Rachel McMillan. I was drawn into the story and really enjoyed the settings and the characters. Having visiting Boston during a college exploration trip for our daughter, it was fun to go back in time to 1930s era in Boston. I did get a couple of the characters mixed up and I reached out to Rachel to help clarify for me. Obviously if I'd been reading the book rather than listening this wouldn't have been an issue.

I was delighted to read where the hero has an Anxiety Disorder. Frankly, we don't get to read many stories that feature a flawed hero like Hamish. I was looking forward to hearing how God helped Hamish overcome. Was thinking this could even be a good bibliotherapy book. See my next comments.

The story reminded me very much of a clean reads novel from another author. I kept listening for the Christian fiction component, the spiritual arc. And I kept listening. It was an engaging story, the characterization was good, and I enjoyed Rachel's author voice. But I never did find the Christian fiction component or the spiritual arc. So at the end I felt rather flummoxed. This was a Thomas Nelson story and it read like a clean read story not a Christian fiction. I was disappointed. I do think the market is going in this direction and we're going to find this more often. So I'll be checking in future to make sure the time I invest time in a listen is for a CF story -- I do want that clear spiritual arc.

Here's what Rachel McMillan had to say about the Christian element. She has given me permission to quote her: "It's more thematic. It's infused in the mentions of Hunchback of Notre Dame. In the grace distributed by Nate to the North End community. In the loyalty and unconditional love of Hamish to Luca. My books don’t have overt Christian elements or frames. It is more implied in message and symbol."

Publisher's Summary
“Maybe it was time to land straight in the middle of the adventure....”

Hamish DeLuca has spent most of his life trying to hide the anxiety that appears at the most inopportune times - including during his first real court case as a new lawyer. Determined to rise above his father’s expectations, Hamish runs away to Boston where his cousin, Luca Valari, is opening a fashionable nightclub in Scollay Square. When he meets his cousin's “right hand man” Reggie, Hamish wonders if his dreams for a more normal life might be at hand.

Regina “Reggie” Van Buren, heir to a New Haven fortune, has fled fine china, small talk, and the man her parents expect her to marry. Determined to make a life as the self-sufficient city girl she’s seen in her favorite Jean Arthur and Katharine Hepburn pictures, Reggie runs away to Boston, where she finds an easy secretarial job with the suave Luca Valari. But as she and Hamish work together in Luca’s glittering world, they discover a darker side to the smashing Flamingo nightclub.

When a corpse is discovered at the Flamingo, Reggie and Hamish quickly learn there is a vast chasm between the haves and the have-nots in 1937 Boston - and that there’s an underworld that feeds on them both. As Hamish is forced to choose between his conscience and loyalty to his beloved cousin, the unlikely sleuthing duo work to expose a murder before the darkness destroys everything they’ve worked to build.

Giveaway: Box of books. Leave a comment to enter.

Noela reviews THE SILENT SONGBIRD by Melanie Dickerson

The Silent Songbird

The Silent Songbird

by Melanie Dickerson

Thomas Nelson (November 8, 2016)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

An Enchanting Happily Ever After

There’s just something about Melanie Dickerson’s fairy-tale inspired tales that without fail sweeps me far, far away on a fanciful journey of the imagination and heart. Each and every book is a cherished must-read in which I long to visit and lose myself in! The Silent Songbird being no different, flew me back to 1834 to Hertfordshire, England, where an enchanting journey was just beginning..

The beautiful songstress Evangeline is ward to King Richard and spends much of life sequestered away within Berkhamsted Castle for her own protection. When the King demands she marry his advisor, the predatory Earl of Shively, the red-haired beauty escapes the castle’s confines in disguise and joins up with Westley le Wyse and his party of travelers setting out for their village.

Evangeline discovers a whole new world outside the castle—one of freedom and beauty, hardship, and toil. How will the once-sheltered maiden endure the taxing work of a maid in Westley’s village? There are many amusing and tense moments when one wonders if and when all will fall apart. 

Having easily fallen for the handsome, kind, and courageous Westley, Evangeline is burdened… for part of her disguise is a pretense to be mute. If her secrets are revealed, not only will she have betrayed Westley with her lies but she might be hauled back to the castle, for who would want to defy the King knowing he was searching for her? Evangeline’s new world however, is about to become even more fraught with dangers as revenge, murder, and a sinister plot comes to light. Will there be songs again in this brave but gentle maiden’s future?

Author Melanie Dickerson knows how to bring to life some of the most enchanting characters, like the sigh-worthy, compassionate hero with sky-blue eyes and the plucky, perceptive, and innocent heroine. Together, the sparks fly in this sweet as molasses, toe-curling, romantic medieval adventure! Faith threads such as trusting in God’s loving-kindness and forgiveness, are deftly interwoven within this beautiful and memorable happily-ever-after tale!

*Thank to the Publisher and NetGalley for providing an advanced copy to review in exchange for my honest opinion.

Berkhamsted Castle Where The Lovely Evangeline Spent Most Of Her Years Growing Up Inside The Castle Walls

You may find this book for purchase at these and other places: AMAZON; CBD; B&N; BAM

GIVEAWAY: We have a hardcover copy of Melanie Dickerson's 'The Silent Songbird' for giveaway!! (US only) Leave a comment on this review to enter, and please include your email using (at) and (dot) to protect against spammers.

Bonnie Roof's Review Of 'The Things We Knew' By Catherine West

The Things We Knew By Catherine West

The Things We Knew By Catherine West
Thomas Nelson, July 2016

Reviewed By Bonnie Roof
~5 stars! ~

"A BEAUTIFUL, HEART-WARMING FAMILY STORY OF HOPE, FORGIVENESS, LOVE, AND REDEMPTION!!"

After her mother passed away and her four older siblings left home and never returned, Lynette Carlisle was left with the responsibilities of caring for a father with failing health and financial burdens, including the family home, Wyldewood, on Nantucket Island - now in disrepair. Her recurring nightmares hint at memory lapses and possible clues in the death of her mother.

When Nicholas Cooper, Lynette's neighbor and adolescent crush returns home after a 5 year absence, to work for his brusque banker father, Anthony Cooper - he brings with him secrets from the past that could destroy his relationship with Lynette and further the dysfunction in both families. When Anthony offers to buy Wyldewood, a beloved connection for Lynette to her mother - it causes friction amongst Lynette and her siblings as they return to Wyldewood bringing their own secrets, drama, and problems.

Catherine West's 'The Things We Knew' includes some difficult subjects: drug addiction, infidelity, physical abuse, dementia - which are encased in a beautiful story filled with mystery, romance, humor, suspense, drama, warmness, and faith. The story of two dysfunctional families struggling to put their lives back together through healing their relationships and faith - it's also a compelling story of hope, forgiveness, and triumph with realistic, heart-warming, relatable characters and situations that kept me intrigued and "glued to it's pages" from beginning to end. I cared for, and sympathized with, the characters - who remained in my heart after I finished reading their story.

This book is available through Amazon, CBD, BAM, and your local bookstore! 

GIVEAWAY! Cathy is generously offering a paperback copy to one blessed commenter! (US and Canada residents only.) For contact purposes be sure to leave your email address written (at) and (dot) to protect yourself from spammers.

Dawn at Emberwilde by Sarah E. Ladd Audiobook Review

Blurb: For as long as she can remember, beautiful and free-spirited Isabel has strained against the rules and rigidity of the Fellsworth School in the rolling English countryside. No longer a student, Isabel set her sights on a steady role as a teacher at the school, a safe yet stifling establishment that would enable her to care for her younger sister Lizzie, who was left in her care after her father’s death.

The unexpected arrival of a stranger with news of unknown relatives turns Isabel’s small, predictable world upside down, sweeping her and her young charge into a labyrinth of intrigue and hidden motives.

At her new family’s invitation, Isabel and Lizzie relocate to Emberwilde, a sprawling estate adjacent to a vast, mysterious wood rife with rumors and ominous folklore—along with whispers of something far more sinister. Perhaps even more startling, two handsome men begin pursuing Isabel, forcing her to learn the delicate dance between attraction, the intricate rules of courtship, and the hopes of her heart.

At Emberwilde Isabel will discover that the key to unlocking the mystery of her past may also open the door to her future and security. But first she must find it—in the depths of Emberwilde Forest.

Carrie's Audiobook Review

It is so difficult to find a good Christian fiction new release audiobook to listen to, so was I ever thrilled when I learned Sarah E. Ladd's newest Regency from Thomas Nelson/Harper Collins was available as a download from Audible.com! I have a membership and I promptly downloaded it and listened!

SPOILER: I love a rags-to-riches story and I've written some myself. Isabel is such a sympathetic heroine, orphaned and working in a girl's school. One begins to realize, pretty quickly, that all is not well at Emberwilde.

This story includes elements of extreme betrayal and avarice as well as criminal behavior and murder. For Isabel, almost no one is beyond suspicion. She's a strong young woman who takes a while to "push back" at some of the nonsense being hoisted upon her. But she eventually does rise to the occasion.

This was a very good listen! Narration was good but could have been better, but it wasn't a deterrent to the listen.

Note: I did receive a paperback from the publisher but am under no compulsion to post a positive review. As mentioned, I purchased my own audiobook copy and listened.

Giveaway: A Paperback copy of Sarah's lovely Regency, Dawn at Emberwilde (a gorgeous cover on this paperback!) Leave a comment as to why you enjoy Regency stories.  I like them because some of my ancestors lived in England during Regency (my great-grandparents immigrated to Michigan later) and because I loved Jane Austin.  

Audiobook Review of The Beautiful Pretender by Melanie Dickerson

The Beautiful Pretender

The Beautiful Pretender A Medieval Fairy Tale

by Melanie Dickerson

Thomas Nelson (May, 2016)

Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

5 Stars *****

Will Be On My Best of 2016 Audiobooks!!! 

I listened to Melanie Dickerson's newest novel as a download from Audible.com. I was stuck in bed with a terrible headache but felt well enough to listening to this wonderful story! It might be my favorite story of Melanie's, yet! I have to admit that in the beginning, with the grisly start off with the wolves in the forest, I worried I was in for a darker story than this ended up being. 

Avelina, is the daughter of a former stableman who was crippled by injuries sustain by a horse. She has two younger siblings she helps provide for by being the maid to the Plimmwald Castle's spoiled Lady Dorothea. When Dorothea runs off, her father requires Avelina to pose as Dorothea when Thornback Castle's Margrave invites ten noble ladies to gather so that he may pick a wife.

Both Avelina and the Margrave are sympathetic and relatable characters. The narrator, Jude Mason, was very good. She has a heavy English accent, which I easily became accustomed to. As I was listening, I though that Melanie Dickerson has really hit her stride with this story! Don't miss out on this story and if you enjoy audiobooks, you'll love this one! A Wonderful Listen!

The audiobook may be purchased at: Christian Audio Audible.com Barnes & Noble Amazon
and the paperback and ebook at Amazon; CBD; B&N; BAM

GIVEAWAY: A paperback or e-book, winner's choice. Answer the question--which of Melanie's books is your favorite?

Noela reviews THE BEAUTIFUL PRETENDER by Melanie Dickerson

The Beautiful Pretender

The Beautiful Pretender

by Melanie Dickerson

Thomas Nelson (May 17, 2016)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

A Medieval Fairy-tale Retelling - The Princess and the Pea meets Beauty and the Beast

Imposing stone castles, wolf-infested forests, and immensely gripping characters—together with treachery, sacrifice, and love, ensures this medieval tale emerging from 1363 in the Holy Roman Empire—is one that seizes the reader instantly from the breathtaking beginning!

Avelina, the beautiful maid-servant to Lady Dorothea of Plimmwald Castle, is forced to go in Dorothea’s stead to the Margrave of Thornbeck’s two-week party—from whence the Margrave will choose a bride from the invited noblewomen. Dorothea’s father, the Earl of Plimmwald, insists Avelina impersonate his daughter to attend the gathering after Dorothea ran away with one of his knights. The Earl fears an attack on his castle from a threatening neighbor and must find favor and an ally with the powerful Margrave. Upon fear of banishment for herself and her family, along with the burden that many lives may be lost upon Plimmwald being defeated, Avelina goes along with the masquerade with no small lack of trepidation.

Avelina is a simple and pure-of-heart maiden, but possesses spunk and is opinionated when it comes to injustice and the downtrodden. I couldn’t help but champion for her. Though she’s meant to merely stay in the background and above all avoid the Margrave choosing her as his wife; the scheme falters as the Margrave becomes captivated with her. Avelina attempts to direct his attentions elsewhere but this becomes increasingly heart-rending when her feelings deepen for this austere but kind-hearted man. She knows a union between a maid and Lord would never be permitted, but even so there is too much at stake for Avelina to even contemplate the possibility. Before the fortnight is spent, a much direr situation than her deception begins to emerge. Can this beautiful pretender help truth and justice to triumph or will all be lost?

Truly, I devoured this medieval feast of treachery and love so gluttonously I’m sure I must have burped at the conclusion! Masterful storyteller Melanie Dickerson, once again delivers upon a feasting platter, an intriguing, original tale with phenomenal characters, exhilarating suspense, and a sigh-worthy romance. Enriching ‘The Beautiful Pretender’ is a meaningful reminder of God’s enduring love and faithfulness. Highly recommended! 

*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Thomas Nelson for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given. 

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This book may be purchased from these and other places: Amazon; CBD; B&N; BAM

GIVEAWAY: Melanie Dickerson is generously offering a giveaway of a signed paperback or e-book to someone who leaves a comment below! (US entrants only) 
To be eligible please leave your email address for contact purposes should you win. Using (at) and (dot) will protect you against spammers.

Giveaway Melanie Dickerson's The Golden Braid Audiobook - Review by Carrie Fancett Pagels

The Golden Braid

by Melanie Dickerson

Thomas Nelson (November, 2015)

This audiobook will be on my list of Audiobooks of the Year for 2015.

Reviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

5 Stars *****

A Beautifully Woven Story!!!

The Golden Braid on audiobook at first put me off because the narrator sounded depressed. I really didn't care for her voice. And if you've ever met Melanie Dickerson you know she has the sweetest voice in the world! So that narrator just seemed so wrong! BUT, I really wanted to listen to the book because Melanie is a talented author and a friend plus Noela had done such a stellar review here on OWG blog that I pushed past the initial reaction to the narrator. I turned the speed up on her and soon I was ENGROSSED in the story!  It was a GREAT book and it is so hard to find a wonderful audiobook to listen to for Christian readers!

This is a Rapunzel story with many twists. I loved how Melanie fleshed out the wicked "mother" in the story. She does a great job of making the evil woman's behaviors understandable. And I love how instead of the knight, Sir Gerek, being completely heroic, he was a bit of a jerk at first. Again, the author does her job of helping us understand his behavior. I was impressed by the weaving together of the story threads.


Giveaway: Hardcover copy of The Golden Braid. Question: Have you read any of Melanie's books and which one is your favorite? (I think this one may be my favorite!) 

Noela reviews The Golden Braid by Melanie Dickerson

The Golden Braid

The Golden Braid

by Melanie Dickerson

Thomas Nelson (November 17, 2015)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

‘The Golden Braid’ delivers a sublimely executed retelling of the classic tale Rapunzel ~ flourishing with chivalrous and daring deeds, burgeoning faith, and a beautifully enchanting though conflicted romance. Taking place during the 15^th century in a world so vastly contrasting to ours; we visit imposing castles and encounter heroic knights engaging in clanging swordfights. In reality, our worlds are not so dissimilar in the fact that evil and jealousies still reside in the heart of man. But the beauty of the author’s gifted and mesmerizing story-telling, is that we may escape with our imagination to an exquisitely inspiring and unforgettable, happy-ever-after!

Naïve and innocent, the fair maiden Rapunzel with golden, flowing hair, is once more torn from a village as her oppressive mother moves them on, after a young farmer asks for Rapunzel’s hand in marriage. Again, her mother cites the evils and deception of men. Though uninterested in this man, Rapunzel is disheartened to be uprooted repeatedly, never having a chance to belong, to make friends, or especially to learn to read. She hopes that with this next move to the larger city of Hagenheim, she may yet fulfill her yearning to read at least. When along the road, they are set upon by some brigands; her mother’s dire warnings of men seem to be proving true.

In the wake of being rescued by the gallant knight, Sir Gerek, everything that is instilled in Rapunzel by her mother regarding men, has her questioning its validity. Though her knight protector seems arrogant, he also proves to be honourable and curiously pleasant to look at and be with, which greatly perplexes Rapunzel. In Hagenheim, she grows fonder of this gruff though kindly knight despite knowing he has vowed to marry only for riches and rank. Here though in this city of secrets, Rapunzel’s life is turned on its head as mysteries and betrayals uncovered will change her life forever. Will the poor, peasant maiden ever find liberty and love or stay chained to lies and deception?

It was almost dungeon-worthy torture having to set the book down, but then neither did I want to make it to the last page! There was also a wonderful anointing on this tale that lifted my spirit as well as imagination, illustrating the scriptural admonition of ‘not leaning unto your own understanding’. The Golden Braid is a truly charming book, and a top favorite of mine for 2015!

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Available to purchase at these places: Amazon; CBD; Barnes & Noble; BAM; and others!

GIVEAWAY: (CFP) We have a copy of the book for one blessed winner!  Answer this question--what aspect of Noela's review has you yearning to read The Golden Braid?
(Remember to leave your email for contact purposes should you win. Using (at) and (dot) will protect you against spammers.)

Diana Reviews The Curiosity Keeper by Sarah E. Ladd

 

The Curiosity Keeper By Sarah E. Ladd
Thomas Nelson, July 2015

Reviewed By Diana Flowers
4.5 stars~ (No Spoilers!)

Riveting Regency!

 



In The Curiosity Keeper, Sarah E. Ladd takes the reader on an unforgettable Regency adventure—of a young woman's journey from the dank, overcrowded, noisy streets of Somerset, London, to the flowering orchids that patchwork lush, verdant forest land, ponds laden with majestic swans, and cobblestones paths of Surrey, England.

Abandoned by her mother, Camille Iverness runs a shabby curiosity shop with her father in a rough area in London. After a brutal attack and betrayal, Camille is rescued by Jonathon Gilchrist, heir of Kettering Hall. Jonathan had been sent by his father to the curiosity shop to recover the Bevoy, a valuable, massive ruby said to bring blessings or curses to the owner. Convinced Camille knows nothing of the stolen Bevoy, Jonathan arranges a way of escape for her to the beautiful countryside where his family resides. Amongst treachery, greed, and deceit will Camille find a gem far more valuable than a priceless ruby?

Sarah Ladd has proven herself to be a masterful writer of Regency fiction! Her stories are filled with angst, romantic tension, multi-faceted characters, and mystery. The Curiosity Keeper is an unpredictable read full of twists and turns—prepare yourselves for a real shocker near the exciting conclusion! I truly found this one hard to put down until the climactic ending...as I do with all of Ms. Ladd's novels. Highly recommended!

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Sneak peek of Sarah Ladd's next book coming out next May, 2016! Isn't it a beauty? I cannot wait!

A special thanks to Net Galley for providing a copy of The Curiosity Keeper in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book may be purchased through Amazon, CBD, BAM, and your local bookstores.



GIVEAWAY: Author Sarah Ladd is generously giving away a paperback copy of The Curiosity Keeper to one blessed commenter!

Noela Nancarrow reviews THE HUNTRESS OF THORNBECK FOREST by Melanie Dickerson

The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest

The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest

by Melanie Dickerson

Thomas Nelson (May 12, 2015)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest is an exquisite heart-stirring tale emerging from a creative fusing of two timeless classics ~ Swan Lake and Robin Hood. Taking place during the year 1363 in the German reaches of the Holy Roman Empire, the ambiance is detailed with a castle and its dungeon, the wealthy in stark contrast with the desperately poor, fair maidens with flowers in their hair, the common marktplatz, jugglers, and the joyous midsummer night dance. This is fairy tale escapism with everyday realism at its best… beautifully encompassing human failings and inner turmoil but with the promise of happy ever-after.

The fairest maiden in all of Thornbeck, Odette Menkels, is the graceful niece of a prosperous merchant. Beautiful in spirit as well as body, she spends her nights tirelessly and selflessly hunting in the Margrave’s forest to feed hungry families and orphaned children, and by day, teaches them to read. Aware she is violating forest law, Odette is increasingly fearful of being caught and suffering a terrible punishment.

Jorgen Hartman is the wealthy Margrave’s forester and it is his responsibility to capture the illegal hunters and to bring them to justice. Jorgen’s haunted past provides added incentive to catch this criminal.  When he meets the lovely Odette and finds his heart captured by this incomparable beauty with her generous nature, he is unaware that she is the poacher he is seeking.

Odette has always justified her crime but the discovery of a local poaching ring leads her to believe her kills may be benefiting a dangerous black market and not the children. As her affection grows for the handsome forester, Odette begins to wonder about ethics and if she is being righteous in her own eyes instead of God’s. Fighting confliction, danger, and loyalties, all Odette knows is that she must never get caught.

I was completely swept up in this tale that’s cloaked in intrigue and mystery, and loathed anytime I had to pause the story! Absolutely loved every minute of this mesmerizing tale that prompted both tears and smiles. I think the reader will also be deeply inspired by the motivational and thought-provoking threads on the issues of forgiveness, integrity, and starting anew. This was a sublime love story that will have everyone wishing for their own fairy-tale! 

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Available for purchase at these places: Amazon; CBD; BAM; Barnes & Noble; Book Depository

GIVEAWAY: We have a copy of this fabulous book for one blessed commenter!! E-book outside of the US unless available to you through Book Depository. Leave a comment below to win, and your email unless we know you!

Noela Nancarrow reviews BUTTERFLY PALACE by Colleen Coble

Butterfly Palace

Butterfly Palace
by Colleen Coble
Published by Thomas Nelson (January 21, 2014)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow
5 Stars *****

Colleen Coble’s intriguing ‘Butterfly Palace’ darts along the shadowy paths of an invigorating mystery whodunit, comprising of killers, assassination plots, and hidden passage-ways. This gripping turn of the century novel set around 1900, encompasses the privileged and the poor with a passionate romance that pushes to take flight. Mysterious, exciting, and romantic…. What more could you want?!

Lily Donaldson tragically lost her father in an unexplained fire that also took the life of her fiancé Andy’s, father. Abandoned by Andy after the tragedy, and later fully orphaned by the recent passing of her mother, Lily Donaldson must make her own way and so takes a position at the grand Butterfly Palace in Austin, Texas, as a kitchen maid. Lily is soon shocked to discover the man who had stolen her heart, and more, at the party hosted by her employers. But why was Andy now strangely calling himself Drew and why didn't he want anyone to know that they were former acquaintances? Convinced he knows the identity of the perpetrator of the fire, Drew is consumed with finding the evidence required to bring him to justice. Before Lily knew what was happening, she was caught up in a web of secrecy, subterfuge, conspiracies, and murder!

The opulent four-story Butterfly Palace contains an extensive, exotic collection of butterflies which feature in the story, and with the ominous tone that author Colleen Coble brings to this novel, they cleverly add to the overall eerie atmosphere. Forever keeping you guessing are the twists and turns in this intriguing tale - almost as many as there were secret passageways in the labyrinth that was hidden within the walls of the mansion! The uniqueness of the various characters contributed much to the quality of this story as did the heart-pounding surprise ending. An encouraging message infused in ‘Butterfly Palace’ leaves you remembering that God is always refining us and that struggles and adversity can help you to grow into a stronger person! 

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We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty. ~Author Unknown

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This book may be purchased through Amazon, Barnes and Noble, CBD, and your local bookstore.

GIVEAWAY: This week we are giving away a $10 Barnes and Noble gift card. Leave a comment for the drawing!

Diana's Review of Seagrass Pier by Colleen Coble

Seagrass Pier

Seagrass Pier by Colleen Coble

Thomas Nelson Publishing, July 1, 2014

Heart-Racing Seaside Suspense!

In Seagrass Pier, Colleen Coble has penned a heart pounding, suspense-filled novel in the lovely, seaside setting of the quaint little island of Hope Beach, North Carolina. Hope Beach is a veritable vacationer's paradise; with its white sandy beaches, roar of the surf, the fresh salty scent of the sea air, and the moon glimmering on the peaks of the whitecaps—but underneath the guise of warmth and beauty lie deadly secrets,  deceit, and murder.

Elin Summerall has been given another chance at life. A young woman named Laura has been murdered and Elin has received her heart in a transplant, along with some of Laura's memories, habits, and violent flashbacks of her murder. Elin, a widow, moves to Seagrass Pier with her mother and her little girl, Josie, to try and recapture some peace and also learn more about her donor in the process.

When Elin begins to receive threatening letters, phone calls, and visits from a stalker who seems to want her dead, a handsome FBI agent from her past, Marc Everton, reappears in her life to help. Marc has more than a vested interest in her and Josie's lives due to a secret Elin has kept from him for almost five years. Can Marc and Elin, along with Laura's memories, put the pieces together before she becomes another of this madman's victims?

Colleen Coble is a master story-teller whose suspense books are guaranteed to keep readers on the edge of their seats, with an adrenaline rush from beginning to end! She is an expert at descriptive imagery, and I could actually see the pounding surf and hear the cry of the seagulls in my mind's eye. There was not just one romance in this novel, but two! – as one of the secondary character's story comes to life as well, and the romantic tension was extremely palatable! There was a surprise twist at the end that threw me for a loop, and lovers of whodunits will be mesmerized; biting their nails well into the night trying to figure out who this crazy stalker is! Nicely done, Ms. Colleen Coble!

This book may be purchased through Amazon, CBD, and your local bookstore.

GIVEAWAY: This week we are giving away a $10 Barnes and Noble gift card. Leave a comment for the drawing.

 

Teresa S. Mathews Reviews A Promise Kept by Robin Lee Hatcher

A Promise Kept by Robin Lee Hatcher

Thomas Nelson Publishers

Reviewed by Teresa S Mathews

5 Stars*****

When I saw the information popping up about this book I knew it was one I had to read; what a good decision that turned out to be. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it and I hope this review will persuade you to read it also.    

When Allison met Tony it was almost love at first sight, within a year of their first date they were married and having a baby. What a life-time of beautiful memories they were going to have. How cruel it is when life deals you something you are not expecting and before you know it your dreams are in ashes. After years of making excuses for Tony's problem Allison has had enough and she gives him an ultimatum, straighten up for good or hit the road. Never in her wildest dreams did she think he would divorce her.

Allison had prayed for years for God to deliver Tony and heal their marriage. She was so sure God had told her He was going to answer her prayers but somehow she must have gotten it wrong. Now she is on the way to live in the mountains north of Boise in a beautiful cabin that was once her great-aunt Emma's.

While exploring Aunt Emma's house Allison stumbles upon a beautiful wedding dress in the attic; Allison can't help but wonder who it belonged to since Emma was never married. Having her curiosity piqued, Allison looks further into the things left behind and finds stacks of old journals written by Emma. Will these journals clear up the mystery of the dress? Or will they produce a shocking secret that no one has spoken of for almost eighty years?

I can't praise this book enough; Robin has created a story so powerful it will deeply touch your heart, especially when you know this is based loosely on her own story. Not only do you get to walk with Allison's as she struggles to maintain a relationship with God after she thinks she has misunderstood His will for her life. You get to rejoice with her when she realizes that GOD has had everything under control the whole time and that He can take our messes and create miracles from them. Thank you so much Robin for sharing this moving story with us.

You can find this book and more by Robin at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and CBD.

GIVEAWAY: We will be giving away one copy of Robin's books this week, Winner's choice of book and format. International Winner Ebook only.

Mistress of Rosemere, by Sarah E. Ladd, Audiobook Review

Headmistress of Rosemere by Sarah E. Ladd

Review by 

Carrie Fancett Pagels

Story: This is like a cross between a Jane Austen and a Charlotte Bronte story and won't disappoint those fans! A great listen, lovely story, sweet and well developed cast of characters, lots of tension, and little Emma steals the story! This is only the second book Sarah has written and she's already grown so much as a writer. She delivers a wonderful HEA that will leave readers emotionally satisfied, which is so important. Brava, Sarah!

Audio narration: If you are considering audiobook, which is what I "read" with: I purchased the CD audiobook version first. The narrator has a somewhat depressed sounding voice and speaks slowly. Too slowly. So I went to Audible.com and downloaded this version and set the narration speed at 1.5 which worked out great on my Kindle Fire. Much better narration than performed by the narrator for Sarah's first novel's. Still wish they could have gotten someone who didn't make the story sound like such a tragedy, because it wasn't. This was an inspirational fiction and a narrator with some hope in her voice would have been better. Regardless, this was a great listen because of the quality of the book.

Giveaway: We're giving away a copy of both of Sarah's books this week, choice of format (international winners ebook or audiobook only.)

Marian Baay reviews THE HEIRESS OF WINTERWOOD by Sarah E. Ladd

THE HEIRESS OF WINTERWOOD

By Sarah E. Ladd

Reviewed by Marian Baay
~5 stars~

Amelia Barrett must marry before her 24^th birthday to inherit her fortune, including the Winterwood estate. After her parents died, her uncle became the master of Winterwood until Amelia would marry. Her uncle has found a suitable match in Edward Littleton, but there is one thing they don't agree on; nine months ago Amelia promised her dying friend Katherine to take care of her baby Lucy. Amelia loves the baby as if she was her own child, but Edward doesn't want to take her in after they get married. The closer they come to their wedding day, the more Amelia sees of Edward's true nature, and doesn't want to marry him.

When Lucy's father—Captain Graham Sterling—returns home to see his daughter for the first time, Amelia proposes to him. It is the only way to keep her promise to her deceased friend to never leave Lucy.
Graham is surprised by Amelia's proposal. He has never met her before—and now this strange woman is asking him to marry her! And it must happen soon too, because she is turning twenty-four in a couple of weeks.

Now there's a jealous, rejected fiancé, an uncle who sees his business fall apart when Amelia isn't going to marry the man he had chosen for her, and there's Graham's drunken brother who needs money to pay his debts.
When baby Lucy suddenly vanishes and a ransom note is found, they are not sure who is after the kidnapping. This incident makes Amelia, as well as Graham, think about their strengths, failures, and nightmares. Can they really trust God to deliver?

I immediately fell in love with Amelia and Graham. Both are strong characters with flaws—which they must overcome. The storyline is strong and believable. The characters are real and likable. There was never a good time to stop reading—I kept turning the pages and the ending was satisfactory. I'm looking forward to Sarah Ladd's next book!

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GIVEAWAY: We're giving away a copy of each of Sarah's books this week, choice of format (international winners--ebook or audiobook only.) Please be sure to leave your email addy for contact purposes.

Diana Reviews 'The Headmistress of Rosemere' by Sarah E. Ladd

The Headmistress of Rosemere

The Headmistress of Rosemere by Sarah E. Ladd

Thomas Nelson Publishing, Dec. 2013

Reviewed by Diana Flowers

5 stars*****

(No Spoilers!)

A Truly Wonderful Regency!

Author Sarah Ladd has penned an intriguing Regency era novel—reminiscent of the legendary Jane Austen—set amongst the glistening, snow-covered, windswept moors of England; with their mysterious beauty, dark secrets, and much anguish of the heart.

At the ripe old age of twenty-five, Patience Creighton has resigned herself to the fact that she will forever remain a spinster. After the death of her beloved father and desertion of her brother, the headmistress of Rosemere is left with the responsibility of twenty-nine female pupils and her severely depressed mother. Life is fairly monotonous until the handsome owner of Rosemere arrives, wounded and desperately in need of Patience's care.

William Sterling had been viciously attacked on the moors by the henchmen of a man he is greatly indebted to. Years of gambling and irresponsibility have finally taken its toll on him…will he have to sacrifice Rosemere to pay off his debts? As his attraction to Patience begins to turn into something deeper, her brother shows up at Rosemere with an old flame whose proposal she had once rejected. Can Ewan give her the security of a home, children, and the life she had once dreamed of but had cast aside? And as dark secrets come to light concerning William, will she turn her heart away from him…forever?

The Headmistress of Rosemere can be read as a stand alone, but now I am so anxious to read the first novel in the Whispers On The Moors series! Sarah Ladd is a masterful storyteller; her descriptive imagery lending an air of mystery and intrigue to the moors. My mind went instantly to Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights, and William Sterling fits in quite nicely with the brooding heroes in those two savory classics. With likeable, well-defined characters, and a realistic, intriguing storyline that will keep the reader flipping those pages, you're sure to enjoy this great story even if you're not a big Regency era fan. Ms. Ladd definitely has a new fan in me! 

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This book can be purchased through Amazon, CBD, BAM, and your local bookstore.

GIVEAWAY: We're giving away a copy of each of Sarah's books this week, choice of format (international winners--ebook or audiobook only.) Please be sure to leave your email addy for contact purposes.

Sarah E. Ladd Interviewed by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Author Sarah E. Ladd

Sarah is the author of The Headmistress of Rosemere, the second book in the Whispers on the Moors series.

Sarah, welcome to Overcoming With God. We appreciate your willingness to share your testimony of overcoming with our readers.

Thank you so much for having me! I have been a fan of this blog for quite some time, and I am thrilled to be here!

Would you tell us about something difficult thing in your life you have had to overcome, with God’s help?

I absolutely love being a writer – it truly is a dream come true for me. Being a writer has encouraged me to face something that is very difficult for me – and that is the fact that I am an introvert! 

I think it is easy to think of writing as a solitary endeavor and to assume that writers work in an isolated environment. But like with most professions, the writing world is changing. With the ever-increasing presence of social media, authors are much more visible than they have been in the past. In many ways, this is a huge blessing. I absolutely love connecting with readers and getting to know them. But on the other hand, for introverts, it can be very difficult to “put oneself out there.” I realize that I am over-generalizing here, but several authors I know (not all!) tend to be private individuals and are a little intimidated at the thought of sharing their personal stories in public forms. I know that I have struggled with this at times.

Through my publication journey, however, I have learned that God stretches in the areas we need to grow. Sometimes it is difficult to put myself “out there,” but through God’s grace, it is getting easier to do so.

(CFP: Many authors are introverted. In the “olden days” it wasn’t an issue like it is today! In fact, it was expected that most authors were reclusive and in their writing closets most of the time. Thanks for sharing, Sarah! We share these stories on OWG as an encouragement to others—and we pray these testimonies will bless authors, too. God’s Word tells us that by our testimonies, there is healing for us and glory brought to God!)

The Heiress of Winterwood

Disability friendliness: Is this latest release available in audio format or do you have any other works available on audio?  Do your e-books have audio capability? Do you have any in large print? 

Yes! The Headmistress of Rosemere is available as an audio book. The first book in the series, The Heiress of Winterwood is also available on audio book.

(CFP: The Heiress of Winterwood was on my Best of 2013 but I don't recommend the audiobook because the narrator is awful. BUT the narrator for The Headmistress of Rosemere was excellent!)

In this latest work, do you have any topics useful for bibliotherapy, or therapeutic influence through reading about a disorder or situation?

There is one line in The Headmistress of Rosemere that I think addresses this topic. It is a quote by Cassandra, one of the secondary characters, when she is sharing her thoughts on a difficult issue in her life:

            “God allowed this to happen. I do not comprehend why, but He will not leave me   here, Patience. This is part of his plan for my life. If I stay here, if I stay angry, I might miss the plan that He has for me.”

Like Cassandra, the hero and heroine in The Headmistress of Rosemere find themselves in situations they do not completely understand.  At times they feel quite hopeless. Both characters learn that it is not their problems that define them. Instead, they find that how they choose to respond to those difficulties is what truly defines their character. They both come to realize that their own strength and wisdom is not sufficient to fix the issues in their lives, and it is only when they seek God’s will do their paths become more clear.

(CFP: Love the name Cassandra, which I named my daughter! I’ll also include my bibliotherapy comments on my reviews later in the week.)

Thank you, Sarah, for agreeing to answer these questions. Have a blessed day and keep on writing!!

Thanks again for having me! 

Here are Sarah's links:
Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Website

Giveaway: "Like" Sarah's Facebook page and let us know you did so!  We're giving away a copy of each book this week, choice of format (international winners--ebook or audiobook only.)