Author: Heather Justesen

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Published: 2012

Softcover: 245 pages

IBSN: 978-1-59955-920-9

FTC FYI: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

Reviewed by Mindy

Back cover:  ”Before he could think better of it, he blurted out, “I understand your concerns. I’m going to speak to my commander about getting an early discharge. My girlfriend, Rena, and I have talked about getting married. There just hasn’t been any rush.”  As soon as the words were out of his mouth, he wondered what he was thinking. Yes, they had discussed marriage, but not to each other! He and Rena had never even dated.

Tucker’s on his way to the biggest challenge of his life. Rena already has it all—except a family of her own. But neither one expected their friendship would take such a dramatic turn.

When Tucker becomes the guardian of his newly orphaned niece and nephew, he knows he can’t handle them alone, not when he might be shipped out with the Marines at any moment. Desperate, he turns to Rena for a major favor. His marriage proposal would give her everything she wants, but can she learn to live without the romance she’s always dreamed of?

As time, prayer, and a life-changing kiss work a little magic in her heart, Rena wonders if someone up there has a plan for her that’s better than anything she could’ve come up with on her own. And though it seems crazy at first, this could become her chance for a marriage that will last for eternity.”

My Review

Rena and Tucker have been friends for 10 years. They both have had their own broken heart stories and have relied on each other many times in the past. When Tucker approaches Rena with a proposal, she is stunned. Sure, they’ve talked about marriage to other people, but Rena never thought the day would come. Tucker needs her help. Rena’s decision will affect the rest of her life.

I absolutely loved this book. The characters are so well written and the story flows with a great amount of feeling and heart.  Each character is important, and I appreciated the author’s eye for detail.  Rena takes on a huge responsibility. After her decision is made, however, she never looks back.  She always has a prayer in her heart.  Even with that, there doesn’t mean there won’t be challenges.  When she is making decisions for Derek and McKensie, she thinks of their mom Haylie, and what she would do. I liked that. The author has a great way of showing real life. The children went through a terrible thing and were not immediately cured by the marriage. Derek especially needs help, and I thought it was handled in a great way.

The book is about family and design. Rena is a very talented designer, and I enjoyed being there with her. Another thing I enjoyed was the glimpses of Tucker serving his country, and the thoughts going through his mind while he was away from his new family. There is also another surprise that I thought was really clever and sweet.

4 out of 5 stars. I knew I was going to love this book when there are mentions of Harry Potter and my favorite line from Empire Strikes Back.  I want to thank Heather for asking me to be a part of her blog tour. I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did.

Also, as a special promotion for anyone who buys a book before February 5th, you can get a free ebook for her companion novella, “Shear Luck.” Once you buy a copy of her book go here (link) to get your free copy. http://www.heatherjustesen.com/shear-luck

As if that weren’t enough, Heather’s holding a host of giveaways on her blog throughout the next few weeks, see the rules at the bottom of this post to enter.

Here’s the blurb for Shear Luck:

Chelsea Robison has never forgotten the older boy next door whom she crushed on as a teen, so when she runs into him at the restaurant he’s preparing to open, it’s a delightful shock. And learning he’s available again is more than a little tantalizing.

Vaughn Krenshaw had never seen his neighbor as more than a nice kid—but Chelsea had definitely grown up in the decade since they saw each other last. He’s attracted to the feisty red head, but still struggles over his wife’s death the previous year. And then there’s his five-year-old daughter, Molly, who really liked Chelsea—until she realized the woman was dating her dad.

As Chelsea starts to wonder if their love for each other will be enough to make things work, a specter from Vaughn’s past rises, making her question whether she really knew him at all.

Here’s the links to the other review from the tour.  This is the last day to enter the contest!

Monday, Jan. 16 Danyelle Ferguson

Tuesday, Jan. 17 Kim Job

Wednesday, Jan. 18 Nichole Giles

Thursday, Jan. 19 Liz Adair

Friday, Jan. 20 Susan Dayley

Saturday, Jan. 21 Keith Fisher

Monday, Jan. 23 Robbin Peterson

Tuesday, Jan. 24 Julie Bellon

Wednesday, Jan. 25 Cindy Hogan

Thursday, Jan. 26 Rebecca Talley

Friday, Jan. 27 Kathleen Brebes

Saturday, Jan. 28 Debbie Davis

Monday, Jan. 30 Maria Hoaglund

Tuesday, Jan. 31 Tristi Pinkston

Wednesday, Feb. 1 Joann Arnold

Thursday, Feb. 2 Christine Bryant

Friday, Feb. 3 Rebecca Blevins

Saturday, Feb. 4 Mindy Holt

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I hold the long-awaited book in my hands, poised to open the stiff and shiny cover, then hesitate.

THIS MOMENT.

Before a single word is read.

Before the spine shows a single crease.

Before corners of pages become bent and worn.

I love this moment.

Full of anticipation and so much potential.

A new world full of new people.

Will I lose myself, setting aside my worries until the last word has been read?

Will I finish with a sigh and a smile, rereading here & there before returning it to the bookshelf?

OR,

Will I put it down after a few chapters to be found later under a layer of dust?

I run my thumb along the book’s edge, causing pages to fan and words to blur.

The smell of ink on paper reaches me. I’m ready.

Anticipation. Potential.

A soon-to-be-discovered favorite or just another book I’ve read?

Cover is opened, pages turned, first line found.

I’ll know the answer soon enough.

  -  -  -  -  - 

There’s nothing quite like the moment just before you start a new book, is there?

Author: D.M. Coffman

Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.

Published Date: July 2011

Softcover; 277 pages

Genre: Mystery-Suspense/International Intrigue

ISBN# 978-1-59811-992-3

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: review copy in exchange for an honest review

Yi Jichun (aka Jason Yi) is a young American attorney recruited to go under cover as a Chinese judge in order to discover and eliminate corrupt judges in the Chinese system. What Yi ends up discovering is much more than corrupt judges and city officials. If events set in motion are not stopped, countless American lives will be lost.

What interested me most in The Hainan Incident was reading about the Chinese culture and geographical locations. There were a few suspenseful scenes that had me holding my breath. I’m not a big reader of political & international suspense novels, so I’m not sure how The Hainan Incident compares to national titles in the same genre. I do think that it might appeal a bit more to my husband, so I’m going to give him my copy to read.

Fans of international intrigue are going to enjoy this story full of Chinese culture and history, political scandal, terrorist threats and suspenseful action. The main character, Jason Yi, is LDS, but there is no preaching and only a few specific religious elements are mentioned. The Hainan Incident is D.M. Coffman’s debut novel.

Watch a video interview with the author.

Click here to read our spotlight of D.M. Coffman and The Hainan Incident during our Countdown to Christmas 2011.

From the back cover:

Before beginning his first undercover assignment, American attorney Yi Jichun travels to Hainan Island on the South China Sea for some much-needed respite — but finds trouble instead. Already uneasy about his charge to expose corruption in China’s court system, Yi stumbles upon a hidden computer network in an ancient island village and finds himself drawn into an investigation that tears him between his religious principles and the lie he must live.

Aided by Sarah, an esteemed fellow judge, and Meijuan, a village leader exiled by her powerful and corrupt son, Yi uncovers the Hainan Net — an international organization that targets global shipping channels in its quest for world power. But Yi loses ground when Sarah discovers his true identity as a foreign spy — and as the American military organizes a stealth assault in full cooperation with China’s government, Yi must reconcile the laws governing the land with the laws governing his honor.

Product Details:

• Title: Queen of Common Cents: 1001 Tips and Tricks to Save Time and Money
• Author: Michelle Snow
• Paperback: 136 pages
• Publisher: Cedar Fort, Inc. (January 8, 2012)
• Genre: Non-fiction
• ISBN-10: 159955982X
• ISBN-13: 978-1599559827
• Reviewed by : Sheila

Book Description:

Author: Andrea Pearson

Publisher: Self

Published: 2011

Paperback: 268 pages

Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy

ISBN: 9781466381612

FTC FYI: I received a PDF copy in exchange for an honest review.

Reviewed by Mindy

Goodreads summary:  ”Jacob Clark has just returned from the world of Eklaron, where he frustrated the evil plans of the Lorkon and returned the magical Key of Kilenya to its rightful owners. His quest is far from over, though–Aloren is trapped in Maivoryl City by the Ember Gods, and Jacob can’t return to save her until he receives the potion that will protect his team from the corrosive influence of the Lorkon.

Balancing between this new world and his own proves tricky. Not only has he started his first year of high school, but his magical abilities are bringing him too much attention. He feels pulled by both sides, hoping he’ll figure out his special powers to save Aloren in time.”

This engaging sequel picks up right where The Key of Kilenya stops. Jacob has only been back from his adventure for a short time.  He is coping with his new abilities, all while starting high school. Many frustrating things happen for Jacob on his first day.  Most difficult for him is having his journal taken away, and he won’t get it back for the rest of the week. That was Jacob’s assignment from the Makalos.  Read that journal, it will help answer his questions.  He and Matt get home from school and right away are summoned back to help the Makolos. There is an army coming. He and Matt rush to help.

What was hard for Jacob during this book was his wanting to help and rescue Aloren.  The Fat Lady wants to wait until all of the rescuers can have the protection of a potion. One that takes a very long time to make.  His concern for Aloren has him not using his best judgement.  Jacob and Matt sneak and use the key to try to save her.

I really enjoyed this book!  I loved the action scenes. Especially near the end.  I did think that the basketball playing was a little distracting. I know basketball is a love of Jacob’s, but it took me away from the story a bit.  I thought the Ember Gods were really cool though, and I wanted more from them.  Really great villains. As always, the characters are well written, creative, and enjoyable.  I love this world Andrea has created.  There is an awesome surprise at the end, and I’m very excited for Kilenya Book 3, August Fortress, to see where this new information will take the characters.

4 out of 5 stars. A great action/adventure story. Find out more about Andrea Pearson here. Here is the purchase link for The Ember Gods on smashwords.

Also available from Andrea Pearson:

The Key of Kilenya

Samara: A Kilenya Romance

Author: Christopher Kimball Bigelow

Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.

Published Date: September 2011

Hardcover; 192 pages

Genre: Religious N0n-fiction

ISBN# 978-1-60861-495-0

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: checked out from my local library

If you are interested in what was going on in the rest of the world during certain Book of Mormon events, this book is a great resource. Not only is there a timeline of events, but the remainder of the book contains great references to people, places, sites and events of significance.

As soon as I opened the book and started scanning the timeline, I knew I wanted my own copy. I was caught up in reading about specific people in the Book of Mormon, as well as historical figures in the restoration of the gospel. Each entry is informative and interesting without taking too long to read.

The large number of photos and artwork throughout the book surprised and delighted me. From depictions of biblical events to early photographs, painted portraits to professional photos, there is plenty to catch the reader’s eye and maintain interest.

The Timeline History of Mormonism is a useful reference addition to any Latter-Day Saint library. I’m looking forward to getting a copy for my own family. Right now, it’s on sale at Seagull Book for $14.99.*

Have you found other Book of Mormon timelines that you have enjoyed as well?

*LDSWBR is not affiliated with Seagull Book or Covenant Communications. I provide this link for the reader’s convenience only.

Cold River

Liz Adair

Publisher: Walnut Springs

Published: September 2011

ISBN: 978-1-59992-803-6

Paperback: 324 pages

Genre: Mystery suspense/romance

FTC FYI: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

Reviewed by Mindy

Goodreads Summary: “Mandy Steenburg thinks her doctorate in education has prepared her to run any school district – until she tangles with the moonshine-making, coon-dog-owning denizens of a tiny district in Pacific Northwest timber country. She’s determined to make a difference, but the local populace still looks to the former superintendent for leadership. When Mandy lands in the middle of an old feud and someone keeps trying to kill her, instinct tells her to run. And though she has to literally swim through perilous waters, she finds a reason to stay and chance the odds.”

Mandy arrives in Limestone, Washington to start her job as the new District Superintendent.  Right away, she is given the cold shoulder from those who work in the office.  They are all still bitter that the previous Superintendent, Grange Timberlain, was let go because he didn’t have the proper education. He is still around as the “assistant superintendent”.  Everyone looks to Grange for answers.  Mandy is determined to not let it get to her.  As she tries to make friends around town, and starts to get to know the people, mysterious things happen to her.

I enjoyed what a great character Mandy was.  She is a great example of a smart lady trying to make things better for others.  At times, though, I was confused as to what type of book this was.  There wasn’t enough mystery for me. The author did do a great job of telling Mandy’s story, but there wasn’t enough action.  A friend later told me this was a romance, but the “romance’ didn’t come until there was about 50 pages left.  I did enjoy the characters, though. I really liked Mandy’s sister Leesie, she was adorable.  She really brought happiness to Mandy when she needed it most.  I also enjoyed Grange. He was a tough guy to like, at first, but I looked forward to him being there more and more.

3 out of 5 stars.

Read more about Liz Adair here. Purchase Cold River here.

Author: Kimiko Hammari

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Published Date: November 2011

Paperback; 160 pages

Genre: Religious Non-fiction

ISBN# 978-1-59955-941-4

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: free review copy in exchange for an honest review

From Goodreads:

Crazy days mean no time to plan family nights. With Choose the Right, all your Family Home Evening lessons are done for a whole year, complete with activities, games, scriptures, songs, challenges, and a CD-Rom with printable handouts! Not only are the lessons fantastic but they correlate with the 2012 Primary topics and lessons. Spend quality time with your children as you make family night the best night!

Every Monday, our family rotates who is responsible for planning Family Home Evening. My husband, two oldest daughters and I take turns planning and presenting the lesson each week. I’m always on the lookout for FHE resources that are easy to prepare, applicable to our family, and engaging for a range of ages.

Choose the Right has a lesson plan for 4 weeks of each month that go right along with the Primary manual for 2012. Each lesson presents options for resources (scriptures, songs, Gospel Art kit pictures, etc), the lesson, a variety of activities, and a challenge. The book comes with a CD from which you can print lesson material and any printables needed so you don’t have to cut up or write in the book.

What I appreciate most about Choose the Right:

• The complete lesson materials are only two or three pages long so my two youngest (four and almost three years old) are less likely to get bored
• While many of the lesson activities are great for my two youngest, the weekly challenges are more applicable to my two oldest daughters so there is something for everyone
• The FHE lessons are planned for the entire year, so my husband and I don’t have to stress about what the FHE lesson should be about from week to week
• The lessons go along with the Primary manual so what my little ones are learning in Primary is automatically being reiterated in our home
• The printables and graphics are cute!

Miracle of the Christmas Star

Author: Susan Dean Elzey

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Published: September 2011

ISBN13: 9781599558622

FTC FYI: Received a free PDF from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Paperback 176 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction/Christmas Stories

Reviewed by Mindy

Goodreads summary: “Hannah died the night she was born. The new star’s light brought her back to life, but left her stricken with palsy. Sariah, Hannah’s mother, believes Hannah can be healed, if only she can find the Savior. Miracle of the Christmas Star is a tender story of love, faith and endurance that will touch your heart and remind you why miracles happen.”

Sariah lived her life with great faith. She and her husband Joshua lived in Bethlehem. It was during Hannah’s delivery, and many times later, that her faith was tested.  However, Sariah new that her faith could make it through anything.

Sariah’s aunt, Mariam, helped deliver the sweet baby on the same night that the Savior of the world was born.  The cord was wrapped around her neck so tight, they wondered if she would make it. Finally, as the star light touched down on her, Hannah breathed. Life was hard for their little family.  Mariam was extremely hostile towards them. Wondering what sins Sariah and Joshua committed to curse the family with such a burden.  One restless night, Hannah had a fever and wasn’t comfortable. Sariah was prompted to take her to the hills in the cooler air. During that time, soldiers came and killed all but a few babies in the village. Sariah and Joshua wondered why Hannah’s life was spared. They spent the night on the hill to make sure it was safe. Sariah wondered to Joshua:

“Why is she like this, Joshua?” Sariah asked. “Did we offend God?”

“Hush,” Joshua said, stroking his wife’s hair. “You could offend no one in your sweetness.  She is our baby, and God gave her to us for a purpose.  We must have faith.”

This is a beautiful story of ever-lasting love, patience, and love. There were a couple times where I had tears in my eyes. I love a sweet story that tears at your heart strings. The ending was wonderful and worth the wait.

4 out of 5 stars. All the characters were great examples of faith. I loved the supporting characters too. Joshua, of course, and Joanna.  What Sariah had to go through in her life would of been hard for anyone to endure, especially in the time when the story is set.  But she did it gracefully.  Miracle of the Christmas Star is wonderful story to read to be reminded of the blessings in your own life.

FACEBOOK / CEDAR FORT / AMAZON / BARNES & NOBLE

Thanks to Cedar Fort for allowing me to be a part of this blog tour.

Author: Stephanie Black

Publisher: Covenant

Published Date: Sept 2011

Softcover; 316 pages

ISBN# 978-1-60861-463-9

Genre: Mystery-Suspense

Reviewed by: Shanda, Sheila & Mindy

FTC FYI: free review copies in exchange for an honest review

Shanda’s Review

I should not have started Rearview Mirror on a windy night while my husband was out of town.

There are some seriously creepy things that happen in this book. I questioned my sanity a couple of times, read until I couldn’t keep my eyes open, and then hoped this would be one of those nights that I wouldn’t remember my nightmares dreams.

Rearview Mirror was a page turner that I didn’t want to put down. At one point I gasped out loud and almost screamed with the main character. I read the next few pages with my hand covering my mouth. I’m sure my eyes were wide with shock at a certain turn of events. I was guessing at characters until the end, going back and forth on who I thought was guilty.

I enjoyed the side stories with the secondary characters. The author kept them integral to the story but brief enough to not become too distracting from the main storyline. Several of the characters became people I wouldn’t mind reading more about in the future.

Rearview Mirror gets a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars from me for being a creepy story that kept me guessing until the end.

Sheila’s Review

Stephanie Black is well known for her wonderful mystery/suspense books. She has won several Whitney Awards for her writing and they have been well-deserved. She always has a way of drawing you into the story from the first paragraph.

Rearview Mirror starts with something happening that will leave your mouth hitting the floor. Boom! The mystery starts, and you are left wondering who “did it” after reading the first two pages.

There are several story lines taking place in the novel, but they soon weave together as you try in vain to figure out who killed several people. Just when you think you have figured out who is behind all of the dirty deeds (there is also the possibility that more than one person is responsible) another possible bad guy/gal is thrown into the suspects’ spotlight. You feel like you are being bounced all over the place as you keep changing your mind about who is the real killer.

Fiona Claridge, the main female character, is struggling with physical and emotional challenges from an accident many years earlier. Her best friend was killed in the car accident and Fiona was driving. Fiona may appear weak at times, as she feels the pressure of her past mistakes and the current stalker making her life miserable. You soon realize that Fiona is stronger than you think as she attempts to attack her problems head on.

Rearview Mirror can be read in one sitting, if you are lucky enough to have the time. I did not want to put this book down. I played a game of UNO Attack with one hand and held the book in the other. I am happy to report that in 5 rounds, I won, while reading my book!!

Your heart will be kept leaping and your brain boggled as you read of one frightening event after the other. The end IS a big surprise! I had my suspicions, but then I was thinking almost everyone was a suspect, but was shocked when it all came down to the end.

Stephanie Black has definitely bested herself again. This book is fantastic and I highly recommend it to all readers.

Mindy’s Review

Rearview Mirror is another strong offering from Stephanie Black. This book starts strong from page one and doesn’t let go. I was guessing the whodunit for the whole book. I loved how Stephanie would plant her little seeds of mystery in my head, string along a suspect, then ease me to another.

Fiona Claridge has had a rough few years. She was the driver in a fatal car crash that killed her roommate eight years earlier. Now, years later, someone is harassing her. Is it Kimberly Bailey, the disgruntled student that Fiona had to fail, or Carissa Willis the housewife with a secret? Or is it someone even closer to Fiona?

The author does incredible job of switching POV’s throughout the story. Each character is so unique and very well written.

5 out of 5 stars. This book is full of suspense and mystery. I loved it! I know when I’m liking a book, I quickly I read the last couple lines on the last page to make sure things will be alright for the character. I had to do that here.

What Stephanie Black mystery-suspense novels you have enjoyed?

The Assassination of Governor Boggs

Author: Rod Miller

Publisher: Bonneville Books (Cedar Fort)

Published: 2011

Softcover: 211 pages

ISBN: 978-1-59955-863-9

Genre: Historical Fiction

FTC FYI: I received a free copy from publisher in exchange for an honest review

Reviewed by Mindy

Backcover: “After an attempted assassination, Governor Lilburn Boggs couldn’t prove who’d taken a shot at him, leaving the identity of his assailant a mystery.  Twenty-five years later and after the passing of Gov. Boggs, Detective Calvin Pogue has been hired by the Boggs family to open this cold case and find out the truth about the assassin.  From Missouri to California and into the heart of the Utah Territory, Detective Pogue relentlessly seeks clues that lead him to the legendary Mormon gunman Porter Rockwell–who still isn’t making things easy for anyone!”

This book was very intriguing.  Although, it is fiction based on historical facts, it had me thinking.  Calvin Pogue is an interesting character.  He’s suffered a war injury, and is separated from his daughter.  His thoughts are of her, especially when he sees toy horses in shop windows.  Calvin takes the case, even though he knows it may be useless. He asks William Boggs (Lilburn’s son):

“Why now?” Pogue asked.

It’s as I wrote in my letter to Mr Pinkerton.  That night has haunted our family ever since.  We’ve suffered the consequences of that gunshot these twenty-five years, and the man who shot my father hasn’t.  He ought to be the one who’s suffered for what he done.”

If you like a good mystery with historical facts and characters mixed in, this book is for you.  I also liked reading Porter Rockwell’s version of events through letters.  Also, there is a surprise at the end that had me stunned.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Author: Jessica Day George

Publisher: Bloomsbury

Published Date: October 2011

Hardcover; 228 pages

Genre: Middle-Grade Fantasy

Reviewed by: Shanda, Sheila & Mindy

FTC FYI: purchased own copy

Shanda’s Review

I have been anxiously awaiting Tuesdays at the Castle since Jessica first told us what she was working on back in March 2010. A magical castle that changes every Tuesday (or more often if it feels like it) and an 11-year-old princess that can communicate with it? What a fun idea.

I have yet to read another author with Jessica’s particular talent in fairytale storytelling. Tuesdays at the Castle will appeal to girls and boys- girls because the main character is the youngest princess in a royal family, and boys because Rolf, the second oldest son and the castle’s choice for heir to the throne, must take over and rule the kingdom in the absence of his father.

Prince Rolf, Princess Delilah, and Princess Cecilia fight to keep the castle in the family once their father, mother and oldest brother are attacked on the road and are presumed dead. With the help of the castle (and sometimes the maids) the royal children must fight the evil prince from a neighboring country and the Royal Council who are trying to force Rolf into relinquishing the right to rule.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Tuesdays at the Castle. Not only did it bring out the little girl in me, I also enjoyed it from an adult’s perspective. Jessica has taken the seemingly simple story of royal children in a magical castle and added layers of good vs. evil, integrity, hope, humor, obligation, faith, sorrow and loyalty.

Tuesdays at the Castle gets 5 stars out of 5 from me as a well-told story that made me smile and feel young again. I would happily recommend Tuesdays at the Castle to anyone ages eight and older.

Sheila’s Review

Tuesdays at the Castle is a great addition to the writing of Jessica Day George. This book was written for the Middle-Grade group, 8-12, but even I enjoyed it as an adult reader. As a teacher of the targeted age group, I know that they will love this book!

I have always loved castles, especially magical ones. This castle is like no other one, because it is alive. It will do things for the royal family, especially the young Princess Celie. When she wishes to go somewhere or have a door appear, the castle will honor her request.

With the King and Queen of Glower, and their oldest son, Bran, missing and presumed dead, enemies come calling and try to slowly take over the castle and the kingdom. The remaining siblings, Rolf, who will be the new King, and sister Lilah and Celie, will do what ever they can to keep their beloved Glower castle safe.

The things that happen next are exciting and also quite funny. I love the many humorous things that the castle does to protect itself and the royal siblings. It will change and add rooms, hallways and secret passageways. I especially liked when the castle was able to change where many of the rooms were located. The castle would also furnish the rooms, lavishly to almost bare, according to how well it liked the occupants.

I loved many of the characters in this novel, but especially main character, eleven-year-old Princess Celie. She is brave, spunky and downright likable. You bond with her right from the beginning. Celie is a force to reckon with and the bad guys can’t handle her.

All readers will love this new, fun-filled fantasy. It is a fast read that will leave you wanting to read more of Jessica’s work.

Mindy’s Review

Princess Celie is Castle Glower’s favorite. It does things for her that it won’t do for anyone else, opening rooms for her that even her siblings can’t find. All the rooms that open or close in the Castle are for a reason. Whether it is delighting in certain guests by putting them in the lap of luxury, or kicking out (literally) ones it does not like.

Celie takes it upon herself to get to know the in, outs, and arounds of Castle Glower by making an atlas. And after her parents and oldest brother are ambushed, there is never a greater need to know where to go. The Castle is alive, and helps Celie and her siblings escape many dangers and sneak around without being seen. The Castle and Kingdom is in danger of being overrun with the King and Queen presumed dead. In it’s own way, Castle shows Celie, her sister Lilah, and her heir to the throne brother, Rolf how to save themselves.

Jessica Day George is one of my favorite authors, and this book keeps her status very high in my eyes. TUESDAYS AT THE CASTLE is very cleverly written, full of fun, and lots of heart. Celie is of course my favorite character with the Castle a close second. Celie is a caring princess who is loved by all in the Castle. I loved reading what clever things Castle would do next. What clever room was added, what book would appear for the siblings to read, or what cloak would appear that helped muffle sound.

5 out of 5 stars. I loved every page. I love that when I finished, I had a huge smile on my face. Jessica, you can write no wrong!

Author: Julie N. Ford

Publisher:Whiskey Creek Press

Published: Fall 2011

Paperback/Kindle: 390 pages

Genre: Romantic/Suspense

ISBN-13: 978-1611602944

Reviewed by: Sheila

FTC FYI: Review e-copy

Book Description:

Bound (The Crystor #1)

Author: C.K. Bryant

Publisher: Dragonfly Press

Published Date: October 2011

Paperback/Kindle/E-book; 398 pages

Genre: YA Fantasy/Paranormal

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: I received a free e-book copy in exchange for an honest review

Back cover:

When a photo shoot ends in tragedy, Kira discovers her best friend, Lydia, has been keeping a secret. Knowing the truth, and accepting it, will change Kira’s life forever and thrust her into a world of ancient curses, magical objects, and savage enemies. What happens next will challenge everything Kira knows about her world, herself and the shape-shifting warrior she’s falling in love with. No longer the timid mouse her mother accused her of being, but a woman who finds the mental and physical strength to endure and survive.

BOUND is a heroic tale of true friendship, infinite sacrifice and untamed love.

Find out how you can enter to win prizes galore during the Dark C.A.R.M.A. Blog Tour below.

BOUND begins with Kira and Lydia in gym class on a seemingly ordinary day. By the weekend, though, everything has changed and the reader is swept quickly into a fast-moving tale that involves characters who aren’t what they seem and a history that belongs to another world.

I was pulled quickly into the story and it held my attention easily. I was interested in the history of Lydia and Octavion and I’m looking forward to learning more about their world. It looks like book two will take place on Ophira so readers will have the opportunity to learn more about Lydia and Octavion’s home world.

I liked seeing the growth of Kira throughout the book from an unwanted, unloved and abandoned child to a strong young woman who won’t give up without a fight. Lydia was fascinating with her own internal struggle balancing two spirits. Octavion was a little frustrating for me, at least at first. As the dangerous, even ferocious, young prince of another world at times he felt a little cliche, but by the end of the story he was really growing on me.

I know I’m invested in a story if I get to the end and keep flipping pages as if more story will magically appear. BROKEN, book two in The Crystor series, is scheduled to be released in Spring of 2012.

BOUND is an interesting story that left me wanting more. Readers who like to read YA Fantasy and YA Paranormal will enjoy BOUND.

Content: A few incidents of swearing limited to “he–” and one occurrence of “a–”; kissing but nothing too graphic; a bad guy attacks a main character and touches her breast but is stopped.

To purchase an autographed copy of BOUND by C.K. Bryant visit the author’s website here.

The Kindle version of BOUND can be purchased here.

To enter to win one of several prizes, including a grand prize, visit the Dark C.A.R.M.A. website.

Have you read BOUND? Tell me what you think of the hunky hero Octavion!

Marian’s Christmas Wish

Author: Carla Kelly

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Published: September 2011

Paperback: 304 pages

ISBN13: 9781599559537

Genre: Regency Romance

FTC FYI: I received my copy from NetGalley with approval from publisher

Reviewed by Mindy

Goodreads summary:  ”Miss Marian Wynswich is a rather unconventional young lady. She plays chess, reads Greek, and is as educated as any young man. And she’s certain falling in love is a ridiculous endeavor and vows never to do such a thing. But everything changes when she receives a Christmas visit from someone unexpected— a young and handsome English lord.”

Marian’s brother Percy is coming home for Christmas.  He surprises everyone by bringing two suitors.  The pompous Sir William who is the intended one for Ariadne, Marian’s older sister.  Although she has eyes for the town vicar, who is as poor as a church mouse.  The second is Gilbert Collinwood, Lord Ingraham.  Marian (or Mare, as her family calls her) swears that romance is not for her.  This is the first Christmas since her father’s death, which has left the family deeply in debt with his precarious ways.  There is even talk of the Wynswich family having to sell their estate to pay off the debt.

The Wynswich family has a Christmas tradition making a Christmas pudding, and while stirring it, a wish is made in your heart.  One that you can not repeat. In her mind Marian’s wish is that Gilbert Collinwood will have the best Christmas.  Gil also makes a wish of his own.

Marian’s mother, Lady Wynswich is overly dramatic and judgmental.  It is these actions, one day, that send Marian to check on her newly born kittens, Lord Ingraham goes with her.  They talk and Marian finds herself in easy conversation.  He keeps telling her to stop calling him “Lord Ingraham”, so she settles on Gil. Gilbert has a scar on his face, and Marian in her animal loving ways has made a healing salve, which she applies to his face.  Right away, I think, Gil starts to think well of Marian.

Marian is such an enjoyable character.  I really liked her.  Many times she had me smiling.  She is smart, well-read, witty, and has a lot of spunk (even for the time period that it is set).  This story takes place in the Napolean era.  Eventually goes in a direction I wasn’t expecting, but really enjoyed. There are many surprises that were exciting and kept me wondering.  It’s a well written book, with a very sweet ending.  I loved the changes in some characters too.

4 out of 5 stars.  Read more about Carla Kelly and her many books here. Follow Cedar Fort on Twitter and Facebook.

• Title: No Angel
• Author: Theresa Sneed
• Genre: Theological Fantasy
• Paperback: 283 pages
• Publisher: Brigham Distributing (August 10, 2011)
• ISBN-10: 1935217968

Book Description:

Jonathan Stewart is not at all happy about having to return to earth
as a guardian angel, but it’s required of all post-mortal spirits to
fulfill at least one angel guardianship. Fortunately, on the Guardians
Unlimited application, he had the good sense to request a client
with early-marked-death status, so he believes that while his stay
on earth will be most unpleasant, at least it will be short.
What he doesn’t know is that a spirit with EMD status can choose his or
her time of death! Jonathan’s client, Celeste Knight, has a mind of
her own and refuses death at every turn, leaving him stuck as her
guardian angel in a place he only wanted to forget.

My Review:

This book is very different from any angel and demon book I have read. The story is centered on the lives of the guardian angels and the demons known as “Sheydims” in this novel. I loved the perspective that we were given on how people’s guardian’s angels are chosen. I also loved how Heaven was portrayed. It was also equally interesting to see how “hell”; the underworld, where the Sheydim lived, was portrayed. Let’s just say, I don’t want to end up there!

The main character, Jonathan Stewart, is quite the odd guardian angel. He doesn’t want to do this job and so he chooses someone, Celeste with EMD status, who is supposed to have a short life span on earth and will be marked for an early death. Jonathan is not a pleasant angel and he hates Earth. His earthly experience had not been a good one as a human, so he doesn’t want to go back at all. Nothing really goes well for Jonathan in this book until he starts changing his bad attitude about everything. Celeste teases him about being “The Grinch”. 

Let me tell you, there is A LOT that happens in this book. You will see humor, happy things, scary things (The Sheydim are just down right creepy), and also some very tense moments. There is something that happens at the very end that brought me to tears and left me feeling so good about myself and life in general. It happens in the last two pages, so when you read there, you will know exactly what I mean. 

No Angel will keep you reading and not wanting any interruptions. Theresa does a wonderful job teaching many life lessons, without beating you over the head. Learning to love and to accept love, was my favorite theme. If you have an open heart, you will be greatly enriched by reading No Angel. 

The Author:

Purchase Links for No Angel

• Amazon
• Deseret Book
• Brigham Distributing
• Latter Day Light Bookstores
• Beehive Bookstores
• Latter Day Light Books

**I was given a review copy of No Angel. In no way did this influence the review that was given. **

Geek Girl

Author: Cindy C. Bennett

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Expected Publish Date: December 2011

ISBN13: 9781453663318

FTC FYI: I got my copy from NetGalley

Reviewed by Mindy

“”Think I could turn that boy bad?”

My two best friends–my only two friends, really–Ella and Beth follow my gaze and laugh.  We’re sitting on the outskirts of the cafeteria, outcasts physcially and socially.  We’re proud of this.  We strive for this.

“Trevor Hoffman?” Beth scoffs.  ”No way, Jen.”

“I bet I can,” I say, chewing a painted black nail as I gaze at my intended target.

“No way,” they both agree.

I look at Trevor Hoffman and my grin widens.  He is such a nerdy, goody two-shoes.  Kinda cute actually, but with his shirt always buttoned to the top, a straight-A student who all of the teachers adore.  He’s the junior class something or other, not the president but one of the other officers.  He’s a little different than the other geeks in that he’s sort of . . . cool geek, I guess.  No glasses, asthmatic wheezing, or too-short pants for him.  But he’s firmly entrenched with the geek squad, a nerd to the core himself.

“I bet I could,” I say shrugging.  ”Might be fun.”" (page 1)

Jen takes on the challenge of turning Trevor bad, if she is successful, Ella and Beth will pay for her lip to be pierced.  Currently Jen is in a foster home that doesn’t allow piercings.  She’s not worried because she expects to be gone from there soon.  The girls go to the school stomp that night and Jen immediately finds Trevor and asks him to dance.  In his geeky ways, he thanks her for the dance and she turns away. Dork.

At school, Jen continues to flirt, always watching and smiling at him.  After a couple weeks of this,  Jen asks Trevor to a party.  He has plans already, but asks Jen if she wants to come over and watch movies with him and some friends.  She agrees.  After, they continue doing things together.  Trevor takes her with him to the senior center where he volunteers, their families meet up at the bowling alley, and even go camping together.

Jen is a great character.  She’s very snarky and snide at times, but after hanging out with Trevor a lot, they start to like each other and she start to slowly change.  I enjoyed the way the author showed their growing relationship, and the subtle changes that Jen takes in her appearance and attitude towards her foster family soften her up.  Jen had a rough start in life, and needs to come to terms with scary things.  My favorite was Trevor, he may have been a geek in her eyes, but I thought he was just a great kid.  I thought the book was well written and I really felt sorry for what awful stuff Jen had to endure growing up.  I loved the many science fiction references.  Lots of my favs were mentioned: Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, X Files…

4 out of 5 stars.  Cindy Bennett wrote Heart on a Chain that was released last year.  Read more about the author here. Friend her on Facebook, and Like Geek Girl’s Facebook page.  Follow on Twitter.

Thanks to Cedar Fort for allowing me to part of this Blog Tour.

Author: Prudence Bice

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Expected Publish Date: December 8, 2011

ISBN13: 9781599559360

Genre: Romance Fiction

FTC FYI: I received a copy from NetGalley

Reviewed by Mindy

Goodreads summary: “After five long years, Georgiana McLaughlin returns to the only place she’s ever considered home—the same place she stole a kiss from Ridge Carson under the community “kissing tree.” But this time he’s a man, and reconciling their past is just the beginning.”

After stealing a kiss from Ridge under the town’s “kissing tree”, Georgie leaves town.  Her family has suffered a tragedy and her mother thinks that a month in New York will be good for everyone.   Little does Georgie know, her cruel aunt Cecelia has other plans for her and her family.  She stays away for five years, returning to Colorado only to help her dear Irish grandfather after her grandmother passes away.  Georgie’s entire stay in New York wasn’t all terrible.  She went to a finishing school that she enjoyed, and caught the eye of young man who wants to marry her.  After arriving in Colorado, she immediately sees Ridge, and while letting her Irish temper flare, he can’t get enough of her.  Georgie left behind a dear friend Samantha as well.  Has too much time passed, or will Georgie be able to make things right?

I enjoyed this book immensely.  It was so well written.  I really enjoyed the point of view changes.  I liked seeing the way different characters saw the same situation.  The author did a great job of using flashbacks to tell the story too.  Each character has a history that is vital to the plot, and I never felt the flashbacks took me away from the story.  Georgie, of course, was my favorite.  Her Irish temper had me smiling.  I loved Ridge too.  Don’t you just love that name?  The Kissing Tree is a clean, romance that will have you laughing and crying, especially when you learn the truth about Georgie’s father.

5 out of 5 stars.  Read more reviews of The Kissing Tree blog tour here.  Follow Cedar Fort on twitter and facebook. Read more about Prudence Bice here.

Book Description:

While vacationing in Mexico, two
similar-looking young women find themselves caught in a chain reaction
of mistaken identities. Amelia is a wealthy heiress and business owner,
and Savannah is a sweet Mormon girl deciding whether or not to serve a
mission. When they end up on the same flight to Phoenix, Savannah and
Amelia unravel the sequence of events that wreaked havoc on their trips,
and they make plans to resolve the subsequent misunderstandings. But
their flight is cut short when the plane crashes, killing one of the
young women and plunging the other into a world of intrigue and deceit
where identity means everything.

 

 

My Review:

The biggest mystery in the story truly happens after the plane crash. Which girl survived? The surviving girl has a case of amnesia and can’t remember anything that happened. Savannah is different after the accident, but the doctors, friends and family all blame the personality differences on her head injury. Now it is up to the reader to look at all of the pieces and figure out the puzzle.As the clues are given, it might be easy to figure out who truly had survived the plane crash.

Another aspect I liked about the book (besides the amazing cover!) was the other storyline going on at the same time. The people in Amelia’s life, her fiance Brent, Step-Father Marc,and disgruntled step-siblings all play a part in the book. In their world of super powered business people, the atmosphere is cut-throat and ruthless. A company takeover is at the forefront and Amelia is stuck right in the middle. She is not sure who she can trust. The suspense circulating around this segment of the story is very good and keeps you guessing the whole time. Any violence in the story revolves around these particular characters. As a reader you can see a vast difference between the lives of Amelia and Savannah. Most of the action parts happen at the beginning and the end of the book, and involve many bad guys,gals and guns.

 

Savannah has been raised in a strong, LDS family where her Dad is the current Bishop of the ward. This young lady has always done the right thing, and is teased by her siblings that she is a perfect child. Betsy wrote such a loving family in the Freemans and it shows in their actions. This book clearly shows people who are not familiar with the LDS faith (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints…often called Mormons) what an LDS family “looks” like in most cases. The Freeman family has a loving Mom and Dad, siblings that support and love each other, go to church together each week, and pray and read scriptures together. Even if you are not LDS, you will still enjoy this book and will be able to relate to the kindness, love and caring they show to others. 

Without giving much more away, I will sum this up by saying, that Identity was well written, had characters that you connect with quickly, especially Savannah’s family…LOVED them! You will enjoy this LDS mystery/romance and may or may not figure out the surprise ending before it’s revealed. 

 

You can purchase Identity here at Amazon.com   or at Barnes and Noble.

 

If you would like to learn more about Author Betsy Love please visit her at her blog here.  Or you can also go to her blog:Identity-LDS Mystery Romance Novel 

**I was given a review copy of Identity from Walnut Springs Press. In no way did this influence the review that was given.**

 

Author: Robison Wells

Publisher: HarperTeen

Published Date: October 2011

Hardcover; 356 pages

Genre: YA Dystopian

Reviewed by: Shanda, Sheila, and Mindy

FTC FYI: purchased with own money

Shanda’s Review

Variant begins with Benson, a 17-year-old foster kid who has moved from home to home since he was five, as he is dropped off at Maxfield Academy. Benson is excited, hoping that this is his opportunity for a quality education. It doesn’t take long for Benson to realize this school is not what he thought it was and he wants out.

I have heard people mention both Lord of the Flies and Ender’s Game in reference to Variant. I haven’t read either of them, so this review will be free from any comparisons to those books. My experience with what is considered YA Dystopian is limited to The Hunger Games (which I loved) and The Maze Runner (not as much), as well as Matched and Possession, so I will also not be comparing Variant to other YA Dystopian-type novels as a genre.

What I will tell you in this review is how I felt about this long-awaited novel by Robison Wells as a 30-something mother who is looking for entertaining and clean books for both herself and her teenager to read.

I would hand Variant to my (nearly) 14 year-old daughter without hesitation. If my nephew was a little older, he would get a copy for Christmas this year. Maybe I’ll buy one for him now anyway and give it to him in a couple of years.

I started to read Variant and didn’t put it down, even for dinner. I found the writing smooth and engaging. Both the characters and the story were intriguing to me. I appreciated the lack of swearing, both traditional and “made-up.” (There was one instance of “b—-rd” after a character is killed, but that is all that I can remember.) There is violence but it never felt excessive or pointless to me. There is no sex or gratuitous content.

There is desire. Desire for freedom, something Benson never really appreciated before. For friends and acceptance, things he didn’t know he would like having so much. For normalcy, which takes on an entirely different meaning halfway through the book.

Thinking back, there is nothing that I “tripped” over or that pulled me from the story. I had no problem suspending a little belief about foster kids disappearing from the system with no one noticing. Stories like that have been in the news several times in the past few years. I hear about a number of run-aways each year as well.

I really liked Benson and the other Vs, especially Jane, Mason, Curtis and Lily. The other key characters were easy to like or despise depending on your position.

There is a scene with Benson, Jane, Dylan and Laura that is seriously intense. I’m pretty sure I read it with my mouth open in shock. What followed was a twist I did not see coming.

I found the ending to be an effective cliff-hanger that definitely made me want more but did not leave me overly-frustrated at having to wait for the sequel.

I give Variant 5 stars out of 5 for going above and beyond what I expected, which honestly was a lot.

Young adult fiction is the genre I am the most picky about after being disappointed in content and quality several times. I don’t read much YA so I am thrilled to have enjoyed Variant as much as I did. I recommend Variant to teenagers (boys AND girls) as well as adults.

Sheila’s Review

Benson Fisher is looking for a brand new start at a brand new school. He is not prepared for what awaits him when he gets there. Strange happenings are occurring at Maxfield Academy where the students are running the school, with no adults in sight.

From the very beginning you realize that Variant is not going to be like other books out there. I found I was drawn in from the minute he pulls up to the front doors of the school. Students standing at the windows are screaming at him, making this a very strange welcome to a new school. Oh yes, later Benson finds out it had been a warning for him to run while he had the chance.

From this point on it is such a wild ride. Every day, Benson finds more and more weird things about the school. He also plans every day how he is going to escape. The people that he thinks he can trust, he finds their friendship is all a facade.

Variant leaves you guessing through the whole book. I can guarantee that you will not guess about nor believe some of the things that are revealed. The end IS as shocking as everyone has been saying.

This book is such a great mix of a dystopian theme and a surprising dash of sci-fi. The writing is clean and the characters are distinct. I can’t wait to find out where the story will go from here. It all reminds me of mice in a cage running through tubes, they never realize that they are not getting anywhere. Is this what Benson is going to find out? If you are curious as to what I mean…well, you are just going to have to read the book.

It is a five star, totally fantastic YA book that I will read again and again.

Mindy’s Review

I need to say this first—Variant blew me away. I loved every page. I started on a Saturday afternoon and finished that night.

Variant starts off very strong and doesn’t let go until the last sentence. Even then I was left with my mouth open. This book is so well-written. The characters, whether good or bad, were amazing. The surprise twist had me screaming and saying, “No way this is happening!” My husband was teasing me while I read because I had my hand to my mouth and gasped many times.

Benson Fisher is headed to Maxfield Academy. He wanted this school to be the ticket out of his disappointing life. He couldn’t have been more wrong. As soon as he arrives at school, he knows something is wrong. Immediately when the gates open, two kids try to run to freedom.

Benson doesn’t know what to think when he meets Becky who explains how things works at the school. No teachers. Students attend classes on weird subjects and earn points. Benson finds out from Isaiah that he is “expected” to join a gang—The Society, Havocs, or the V’s. Each gang is in charge of certain jobs at the school. Benson chooses the Variants. He tries to escape, making quick enemies of Dylan and Laura from the Society. He eventually makes friends in his gang, but escape is always in his mind.

I don’t want to give anything away so I’m going to stop there. So many amazingly cool things happen, your jaw will be dropping, too. It is violent in spots, so younger readers beware.

5 out of 5 stars. Absolutely superb. Smooth writing and non-stop action.

 Have you added Variant to your to-read list yet?

My Fair Godmother

Author: Janette Rallison

Publisher: Walker Publishing Company

Published: 2009

Softcover: 310 pages

ISBN: 978-0-8027-2073-3

FTC FYI: I purchased my own copy

Reviewed by Mindy

Ever wanted your own Fairy Godmother to come and fix your life?  If Chrissy is yours, you better know exactly what you want!

Backcover: “After a dramatic breakup with her picture-perfect boyfriend, Savannah needs a true prince–and fast, because prom is only weeks away.  But looking for love can be a Grimm experience!  If only Chrissy were more than just “fair” in the wish-granting department.  After two botched attempts that land Savannah in the past, first as Cinderella and then as Snow White, Chrissy must send Savannah to save Tristan, a surprisingly cute boy from school whom Chrissy accidentally sent to the Middle Ages.  Hopefully the third time’s a charm…as in Prince Charming.”

Savannah is down.  Her plain sister Jane has won the heart of her boyfriend Hunter.  She tries to move on, but it’s hard when your boyfriend’s new girlfriend is your sister. “Fair” godmother Chrysanthemum Everstar is trying to raise her semester grade with an extra credit project.  At first, she doesn’t know what sister she is supposed to help.  After Jane and Hunter get together, Chrissy’s officially assigned to Savannah.  (I especially loved page 20, when the Memior Elves have to go to detox because they’ve been in Savannah’s teen-age head too long.)  Chrissy comes to Savannah and tell her she gets three wishes per their contract.  Wish one (page 47):

I just wish that somehow my life could be like a fairy tale.  You know, with a handsome prince waiting for me at the ball, and that somehow when I meet him, everything will work out happily ever after.

Chrissy checked her wristwatch again, hardly paying attention to me. “Okay, great.  One Cinderella coming up.”

I LOVED this book.  It is so well written.  I loved the humor, characters, cleverness, and especially the story line.  I thought it was so clever having the first part be Chrissy’s report, so fun!  Everything comes together so smooth and it’s full of very fun twists.  I’ve said this before, I love reading books I can pass to my girls without hesitation, this book tops the list.

My Fair Godmother was a finalist for a Whitney Award in 2009.  It’s sequel, My Unfair Godmother was released this year.

5 out of 5 stars.  Janette has written many books.  My Double Life was also a finalist for a Whitney last year.  Read more about her here.

FTC:FYI ***I received a review copy of Double Deceit from Walnut Springs Press. In no way did this influence the review that was given. ***

Back Cover Blurb

As a young widow, all Elaina Bryant wants is a fresh start. Determined to put ten painful years behind her, she returns to her hometown and moves in with her sister, Natalie.

Elaina soon accepts a job working at a small bookstore owned by the handsome Ryan Hill and his mother. Despite her reluctance to become romantically involved with anyone, she is drawn to Ryan and finds herself falling in love.

But someone isn’t happy with Elaina’s new life and is watching her every move. Her tormentor seems determined to destroy her sanity and her future, but Elaina can’t convince anyone the threat is real. Natalie is preoccupied with her own blossoming romance, and Ryan and Elaina’s friend Peter seem to believe the threat has been manufactured in her own mind—a result of her guilt and grief.

Now Elaina’s plans for a new start are crashing down around her. She knows she will have to find the answers on her own before she can ever overcome the past and enjoy love and happiness again. But how can she protect those she loves when she doesn’t know whom to trust?

Three words are found in big letters on the back of the book, “Someone is Watching…” Right off, those words tend to creep me out. As you keep reading the story, you realize that Elaina is in trouble and someone is not only watching her, but trying to drive her crazy. As the tormentor continues to break into her home, steal things and harasses her on the phone, the more anxious you become as a reader. People are not believing Elaina and think that she might be losing her sanity. As I read, I could even see how her sister, her boyfriend and best friend got the impression that she was in need of a good psychiatrist. 

Not to contribute to the bad impression of Elaina, let me say, she had a lot to be stressed over. Her abusive husband and 18 month old daughter had been killed in a car accident. Her whole world had been taken away from her, the good and the bad. 

One of the things I really liked about this book was the constant angst that was there. There is the feeling that something is off, but you and Elaina just can’t figure it out. Stephanie wrote this part of the novel so well, that you find you are as uptight as the main character. Elaina is also the most well developed character in the novel. Elaina’s love interest, Ryan, is not as developed, but you learned enough about him to make him interesting,without taking away from Elaina’s story. Also, I think Stephanie kept him somewhat a mystery to make him more mysterious and a possible suspect. 

The Romance and the kisses are a nice addition to Double Deceit. None of it is over the top and still allows the suspense to take the front seat. The main characters in the story are LDS, but this is not a doctrinal book at all, but focuses more about values and trusting in God again. Even though many of the chapters are centered around everyday events like going to work, this book is well paced and it was a fast read. I felt like there was always momentum with the storyline. As far as who the stalker is? Stephanie will place several people in line, but there is one person who will stand out more than the rest. When I did figure out in chapter 36, who Elaina’s tormentor was, I shouted, yes shouted, that I couldn’t believe it! It is kind of shocking when the truth comes out!

You will love Double Deceit, if you enjoy reading an angst filled mystery, thrown in with a crazy stalker and topped off with a handsome boss,who is also a good kisser. Well done Stephanie!  I hope that you will write more mystery/suspense books. 

This book gets 4 1/2 stars from me!

You can purchase Double Deceit here at Deseret Book or at Amazon.com.

Learn more about Stephanie Humphreys and her books here at her website and visit her blog here. 

Obsession

Author: Traci Hunter Abramson

Publisher: Covenant Communications

Published Date: Sept 2011

Softcover; 220 pages

Genre: Mystery-Suspense

ISBN# 978-1-60861-392-2

Reviewed by: Shanda, Sheila & Mindy

FTC FYI: free review copy in exchange for an honest review as well as a library copy.

Water shimmered behind her, nearly the same color as her dress. Only a sliver of light cut through the darkness, but it was enough for him to see her delicate features and the way her blonde hair flowed past her shoulders. A slow smile crossed his face, one of appreciation and anticipation.

He took a step forward.

She took a step back.

His voice was low and eerily calm. “Don’t be afraid.”

Obsession, page 1

Shanda’s Review

How creepy is that?

Kendra, a famous music star and daughter of an even more famous actor, is tired of the bodyguards that have hovered over her all of her life. When a small bomb explodes back stage during a performance, she knows the chance of any privacy in the future is gone.

Kendra calls her grandfather, a former FBI agent, desperate to get away from everything. He sends her up to the Arizona mountains where she can get some privacy at the family cabin, but secretly arranges for the “son” of a “friend” to stay at their cabin across the street.

Those who read Traci’s first books will recognize Charlie Whitmore, the FBI agent who is assigned to watch over Kendra, as the brother of Matt Whitmore (Undercurrents, Ripple Effect, The Deep End) and Amy Whitmore (Freefall). There is no need to read these books first as Obsession does a great job standing on its own.

I really enjoyed both Kendra and Charlie’s characters. The romance between them developed naturally with a maturity and perspective I appreciated. Kendra possessed a certain naiveté in regard to romantic relationships that was believable and endearing without being immature.

Charlie’s own past experiences dealing with the limelight as a senator’s son gave he and Kendra common ground on which to build their friendship. He wants more but knows that a romantic relationship with Kendra will distract him from his duty to protect her. Though Charlie does his best to keep their relationship on a certain level while on the job, Kendra slips easily through the barriers of his past and right into his heart.

Obsession was definitely a page-turner for me. The pace was consistent, and I was always wondering what would happen next, whether in the serial killer investigation or Kendra and Charlie’s relationship. I had a suspicion of who the killer was but didn’t feel confident about it until closer to the end.

I give Obsession 4.5 stars out of 5 and recommend it to anyone who likes a clean, well-written mystery-suspense with a nice romantic element. I look forward to reading it again.

Sheila

Obsession is another great novel written by Traci Hunter Abramson. This book is more mystery than action. It also is a novel about relationships and learning to love and trust again.

Some of the things I liked the most in this novel were the main characters Kendra, the pop singer being stalked and Charlie, the FBI agent assigned to protect her. Both characters have baggage in their past that threatens a possible romance between them.

Traci always does a great job with character development. She writes characters that the reader learns to care about quickly. Kendra, even though she is famous, is sweet and vulnerable. Charlie, though deeply hurt in the past from a failed engagement, is caring and willing to open his heart. Watching Kendra and Charlie interact is not only fun, but you will be cheering them on to connect.

Traci sets up many possible people as the stalker and possible serial killer. Either I am getting better at figuring who the bad guy is, or this one was easier to solve. But I knew over half way in who Kendra’s stalker was. Fellow reviewer, Mindy, told me she had also figured out the stalker early on. The main mystery for me was how he would attack and if Charlie would be able to protect Kendra. There is great action at the end that resolves the novel nicely.

I recommend Obsession to readers that love a novel filled with a blooming romance, mysterious stalkers, FBI agents and finding God again in your life. Nice job to Traci on another well written novel that her fans will not want to miss reading.

Mindy

Kendra Blake is in danger, and she doesn’t even know it. She is a beautiful, talented singer from a Hollywood family. She is used to being the spotlight, and being watched under a microscope. Kendra knows all about security and the privacy invading problem is it. That’s why when a bomb goes off at her concert, she flees to her ex-FBI agent Grandpa, who will protect the best way he can, in secret.

Kendra’s dad is a famous actor and has distanced himself from the LDS church. She always adhered to the gospel’s teachings and values. Kendra loved visiting her grandparents and going to church with them when she was younger.

Charlie Whitmore is an FBI agent in need of an escape as well. Because he is a member of the LDS church, he is given the special assignment to “guard” Kendra. Only she doesn’t know it. The two develop a friendship that is much needed for the two of them. Only Charlie feels guilty, should he tell her the truth? And what will happen when he does?

While this is going on, we also have the psycho that is after Kendra. Several girls have been killed and authorities are thinking their deaths may be involved in the Kendra Blake case. This guy is very creepy, and he gave me the chills.

Traci can sure write crazy well! The stalker was very disturbing and determined to have Kendra at all costs. All the characters jump off the page, were written well, and believable. There is action, romance, and a nut job possible serial killer, what else do you need in a book?

4 out of 5 stars for me. All the book’s I’ve read of Traci’s are awesome! This one is no different.

Do you have a favorite Traci Hunter Abramson book?

Title: The Outer Edge of Heaven                     

Author: Jaclyn M. Hawkes

Publisher: Spirit Dance Books

Published: July 2011

Softcover: 269 pages

Genre: Romance

ISBN#0615517773

Reviewer: Sheila

Filled with colorful characters of all shapes, sizes and species, including an
orphaned baby pig, most of the Langston family put the fun in
dysfunctional, give or take a couple of black sheep. There’s one in
every family, isn’t there? Add to that glorious scenery, a horse of her
own, and one extremely attractive cousin rancher, Luke Langston, and it
makes for a summer Charlie will never forget. Which might not be a good
thing. She has the time of her life, but her heart may never recover

The cover of The Outer Edge of Heaven draws you into the book before you even read the first page. There is something so intriguing about the cowboy on the horse, with the beautiful sunset in the background.Having been in Montana several times before, the title of the book is fitting. On the back it says:

                                   “Montana truly is heavenly. Especially those handsome cowboys” 

Catspell

Author: Danyelle Leafty

Self Published as a Serial Novel

Published: in full November 2011. The first third is available now under the name The Fairy Godmother Dilemma

ISBN: 2940012988300

FTC FYI: I received a PDF from the author which did not affect my review

Reviewed by Mindy

Goodreads summary:  ”Sixteen-year-old Breena never thought anything could be worse than being forced to leave the faerie realm. Then she got stuck with a fairy godmother. But if she has to choose between the two, she’d leave the Faerie Realm over getting bossed about by a faerie with a pointed stick any day. Unfortunately, her attempt to evade her fairy godmother gives her growing pains in the form of fur, whiskers, and a tail.

Turning into a cat is the least of her worries, though. The potion wasn’t meant to bring out her inner feline, it was meant to put her to sleep. Forever. If Breena wants to make it to her Happily Ever After, she’ll have to accept that sometimes a fairy godmother really does come in handy, after all.”

Nerissa is a fairy godmother.  She has just returned from helping a DID (Damsel in Distress), and gave her her HEA (Happily Ever After), but she is frustrated.

Because every girl–odd duck or not–wanted a Happily Ever After, complete with the deserving suitor, the crown, and the sunset.  And for the life of her, Nerissa couldn’t begin to fathom why. page 6

But such was the life of a fairy godmother.  She could help the girls spread their wings, fan their tail feathers, and maybe nudge them off the branch, but is was up to them to fly.  She couldn’t do it for them. page 8

To top it off, she isn’t feeling well.  So, when she receives the “request” from the Fairy Queen’s pesky fire salamander Frax, to help another DID, Nerissa is less then thrilled.  This girl, Breena, is unique.  She is a mortal that has been living with the fairies.  Long ago, Breena’s mother promised Feylinda her first born child in return for as much fruit as she could carry.  Breena’s mother didn’t mention that she had an enchanted basket that could hold as much as she put in.  Now, years later, the blossoms are finally starting to return.  Feylinda has had the girl for 16 years, and wants to be rid of her by pawning her off to Nerissa.  Reluntantly, Nerissa has a new DID, but Breena’s HEA is different.  What she wants varies from other DIDs.

This book is darling.  There were couple mistakes in a chapter with names, and a few phrases that were repeated a bit, but all and all, I enjoyed it.  There are many great characters: Myles the mage in training, Baldemar the Prince on a task from his father the King, and Natter the goblin on a task for her mistress, and lots of pesky cats.  Each chapter is told from a character’s point of view.  My favorite character was Nerissa.  She was written with a clever wit and fun humor.  I loved reading what was in her head.  I thought having many characters was a great way to help time pass, and the author did that nicely. There are many clever lines, and each character is written well.  I loved the end when a character (won’t spoil who) was given a chance for their greatest wish, but chose to help against evil.

4 out of 5 stars.  The first third is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble for .99 cents under the name The Fairy Godmother Dilemma.  Find more about Danyelle Leafty on goodreads and her website.