A Chance at Forever (Teaville Moral Society series) - Melissa Jagears

Teaville, Kansas and Mercy McClain finds herself in a predicament. She will protect all children from the bullying she experienced as a child. So, when her former tormentor arrives for a job interview as a Math teacher, Mercy wonders if anyone on the board recognizes him. Should she tell them exactly who he is?

Changing his name from George to Aaron doesn't mean he can escape from his past. Not that he wants to. Aaron Firebrook is very much aware of what he did when he was younger. And, he's returned to Teaville make amends.Then he meets with Mercy at the interview. She can make or break his new found career in teaching. He'll find employment elsewhere until he hears news of the position.

Aaron finds the job he needs and strives to keep himself to himself. He's on a mission to seek out those he mistreated. Some have forgiven his actions, others, like Mercy, have not and are making him work hard for redemption. Again, not that he's complaining. He was a bully but he has to solicit forgiveness of others.

Mercy bites her tongue when she discovers that Aaron has a job at the orphanage. Should she say something to Mr. Lowe about who Aaron is...was? A bully shouldn't be around children. But, the young woman has to put her trust firmly in the hands of God. Yet, is so difficult. Can she stand being around Aaron when he evokes awful memories of his teasing? Running the orphanage along with her brother and sister-in-law will mean that she can avoid as much as possible.

Then she finds her brother, Timothy frequenting the town's saloon. Whilst the work at the orphanage is geared toward the unwanted children of prostitutes, Mercy doesn't expect to see kin in the less than desired parts of town. Timothy would lose his job if she mentions anything to Nicholas Lowe (owner of the orphanage). But Timothy is hardly around and then she finds him drunk in the kitchen.With no help from his wife Caroline, who enjoys the finer points of living at the orphanage but wants little to do with the children themselves. However, with confession comes consequences such as will they all lose their jobs and a home.

When Aaron shows a gentler, kinder side, especially with a troublesome child called Jimmy, Mercy starts to doubt her prejudice. Has she been wrong to hold on to the past so vehemently? After all, she's not facing Aaron, a schoolboy, but a man. Can a bully change?

With Timothy's questionable behavior, Caroline's apathy, and then the unexpected request for Aaron to adopt one of the orphans, can Mercy accept her bully's help but even more so, God's?

A great story of redemption, forgiveness and understanding. Many stories will portray a bully, few will show what led them to that point. Jagears has written an understanding tale, one that captures the emotions of its lead characters, all of which are well defined. Although part of a series, the story reads well as a 'stand-alone'. A recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House to review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

Holding the Fort (BK 1 The Fort Reno Series) – Regina Jennings

When Louisa Bell loses her job at the Cat-Eye saloon, as a dance hall singer, her options available as to what to do next, are few. Cimarron Ted then tells her he hears news that her brother, Bradley Willis a Calvary soldier in Indian Territory, is in trouble - again. 

Having lost her job, Louisa thought she'd visit Bradley, but this will be a problem if he’s in trouble. But Louisa is determined to set him on the straight and narrow – and hopefully ask for a job.

On her way to Fort Reno, she makes her acquaintance with Mrs. Townsend. A missionary on her way to the Fort to be a governess. Unfortunately, the dust is playing havoc with the older lady's allergies and she asks Louisa to take the books she bought with her to the girls.

Whilst waiting for the next stagecoach, and able to sing in a wide-open field, the young woman happens upon a man standing on top of a horse only for him to fall. As she rushes to help him, she not only wonders who he is, but notices his handsome features.

The last thing Major Daniel Adams expects to see is a beautiful woman in the middle of a field, singing. But the trick he’s doing, in grudging deference to Private Willis, has been on his mind. If a Private can do this, whilst drunk, surely, he can? It’s a break from everything else. Running a Fort with half an army, ensuring tensions don’t escalate between the army, cowboys and the Indian’s. And then there are his two young girls. If this new governess doesn’t work out, he knows his mother -in-law will insist on raising them away from the ravages of the fort in Galveston.  

With the exception of Lieutenant Jack Hennessey’s knowledge of the incident, when Louisa and Daniel finally meet, their recognition of who they are is a secret they have to maintain. Hoping the incident will become a distant memory for him, the Commander is somewhat surprised to discover that Louisa is to be the new governess. Not only is she a lot younger than he expected a governess to be, but she’s also quite beautiful.

Expecting to meet children, Louisa is surprised to find Caroline and Daisy a lot older and it causes concern for the young woman. Once thing Louisa prides herself on is being able to put on a show. But will these, vibrant, willful and intelligent girls see through her act?

Whilst the saloon singer’s intention is to set her brother on the right path, Louisa finds herself getting more involved with the Commanders family – something she wasn’t planning on.

Soon enough Louisa betrays her roots and slips up here and there, however, Daniel is fine to look the other way. There is something about his new governess that he likes, admires. Maybe she will work out as the new governess. Can Louisa convince her new employer that she has the makings of a governess? Or will her past come back to haunt her and ruin her life for good?

A heartwarming story of love, family and the wild west. Jennings' characters have a realistic quality to them, have depth and are well thought out. The secondary plot line of tensions between the Indians and Cowboys is a good break but works together with the main story in a climax that I didn't fully expect. Easy to read, engaging and well written. A recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House as part of their blogging program. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

King Harald's Snow Job

The boss is planning a weekend away to catch up with friends, go to a concert, have good food and maybe even a new woman to date at the end of it. And, I get to go, so thinks the affable, King Harold. 'The Boss' is Andy (Anders) Skyberg, almost reluctant Mayor of a New Bergen, is packing to leave as soon as he makes a stop to help his Aunt Bev with a Holiday Faire. What could go wrong?

Plenty. Firstly, the weekend has been coupled with 'The Girls Weekend Out' - a two night stay with lots of different activities planned. Secondly, Rosemary, the woman in charge of the faire, is recuperating after falling off her bike. This means, Aunt Bev is now responsible for managing the whole event. And with Tim, the smarmy hotel manager, keen to see her fail, Anders insists on making sure it all goes well for his beloved aunt. 

With popular novelist, Logan Kennedy arriving to add to the festivities, it should make for a fun weekend for all. And then a blizzard blows in to town and it's now open season for mayhem. All manner of secrets are discovered on the snowy weekend - suggested affairs, odd tattoos and missing jewelry. And with King Harald sniffing out (and hiding) a key piece of evidence, what should have been a straightforward helping hand, turns into a complicated mystery for man and his best friend. 

I love King Harald. He's amiable, inquisitive and a genius in his own right. What I particularly like about this great series is that Audry doesn't humanize King Harald. What he thinks is what I would imagine a dog saying to himself. And that's why this works. Anders may well solve the mystery, but he has a lot of help from his faithful friend. A great story and highly recommended for fans of cozy mysteries. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author to review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

With You Always – Jody Hedlund (Orphan Train, Book 1)

A struggling immigrant, trying to find their way in the new world, Elise Neumann and her sisters, find a flicker of hope when they meet Miss Pendleton.

She puts a roof over their heads and gives Elise and the second eldest sister, Marianne work as seamstresses. They are not well liked by the other women who work in the warehouse. These women, also rescued by Miss. Pendleton, have less than reputable backgrounds and they see Elise as a favorite. Fanny, one of the workers, takes a considerable dislike to her. However, the young German, endures the torment – she has to make a better life for her sisters and the two young children they have taken under their wings.

As work soon dries up, and angry mobs descend on the streets, a chance of a new life out west beckons. With the aid of the New York Children’s Aid Society, Elise is able to head there for her and her sisters. But what will become of them, with her being so far away? Little does she know, that the chance encounter with a stranger called Thornton, will change her life.

Thornton Quincy. Born in to a world of privilege, he has everything that he needs – except he’s always in his twin brother’s shadow. And, then his father gives them a unique challenge. Is this the opportunity that he has been waiting for? A chance to see pride in his father’s eyes? However, the contest is problematic. Not only does Thornton and Bradford have to build a successful, sustainable town/community along the Illinois Central Railroad, they both must find a wife. And, it must be love. With the grand prize of inheriting their father’s railroad-building empire, the brotherly competition begins. But how long will it remain amicable?

When Elise shows her skills as a cook and also a strong-minded personality, Thornton is drawn to her – she’s a breath of fresh air. But being socially, worlds apart, can they ever hope to have more than the friendship that they currently have?

Loved it from page one. An immediately absorbing, intriguing read. Hedlund’s characters are well defined and believable. The banter between the main characters is heartwarming and her historical references – women’s movement, railroad building – is reminder of how difficult life was in those times. An utterly romantic story. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series. A highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book to review from Bethany House as part of their blogging program. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Tarquin Hall – The Case of the Missing Servant (A Vish Puri Investigation)

It’s not very often I finish a book and feel bereft. As I started the final chapter, a sadness crept in as I knew that I would come to the end of an amazing novel.

Vish Puri, private investigator extraordinaire (he has the awards to prove it), has been tasked with proving the innocence of a renowned lawyer. A young girl, employed to carry out household tasks suddenly disappears. A body is found, badly beaten. Is it her?

With little to go on, Puri and his trustworthy, hardworking staff investigate what happened to the woman named Mary. Is she the body that has been found, that has conveniently been cremated? The autopsy photo is blurred, yet positive identification has been made and Puri’s client is arrested.

As a well sought after detective agency, Puri is also tasked with finding out more information on a prospective groom. The bride-to-be’s grandfather doesn’t trust him and wants Puri to make this case a top priority. Yes, he’s handsome, works hard, wealthy – but what’s really wrong with him? After all, his granddaughter is a few years older than the prospective groom, why would he marry her?

Can Vish’s team find enough damming material of unsuitability for one case and convincing information of innocence for another? And, if that wasn’t enough someone fires a shot early one morning at the investigator. Sadly, for him, his chili plant bore the brunt of the attack. It’s on his mind to look into that but ‘mummy-ji’ steps in and does a little snooping on his behalf – much to his chagrin.

From the opening sentence, I knew this was going to be a work of art. Hall’s descriptions of Delhi is so good you can hear the sounds of the streets as you read, imagine the smells, feel the heat. Vish Puri is an instantly likable character and you will wish him to succeed. The three plots are interwoven so intricately, yet there is no confusion. Each case reaches a satisfactory conclusion and Vish and his dependable team have righted the streets of Delhi once again – for now.

A highly recommended read for fans of mysteries, good fiction and memorable characters. Visit tarquinhall.com

Her One and Only - Becky Wade (#4 of The Porter Family Series)

The last thing Gray Fowler expected was a female bodyguard. After 10 years as an NFL superstar for the Mustangs, he was used to the adoring fans – even obsessive. But still. A female protecting him? Isn’t he better off protecting himself?

Dru Porter. The youngest of the Porter family. Having to contend with that, she’s also a woman (not a girl) so her three older brothers did their growing up ten years before she did and they’re somewhat protective. Regardless of the fact that she’s a former Marine, black belt and an expert markswoman, they’re still going to look out for her.

Gray is dismissive of both her and the stalker. Dru, the agency she works for and Gray’s management think differently. With this frame of mind, Dru knows she’ll have her work cut out for her. She needs Gray to listen and action her suggestions – she can’t afford for anything to go wrong. Despite her skills and know how she couldn’t prevent a disaster happening on her last assignment. Her boss knows, as does Dru, this job is a chance to redeem her tarnished reputation.

Can Dru protect Gray – or more to the point – will he allow her to? As secrets become uncovered, and they are drawn closer to the stalker, Dru and Gray come to an understanding. However, the agent/client lines are beginning to blur…

The burgeoning romance between the main characters is tucked away for quite a while. Wade doesn’t make the attraction immediate – they both have walls built around their hearts – and it will take a lot of understanding from each other to break them down. Dru and Gray are both headstrong, determined and with so much integrity. The weaving subplot is their faith in God and can they trust the path that He has planned for them?

With themes of obsession, alcoholism, fear, faith, broken homes and love, throughout, there is a lot to this novel. Whilst it may seem ‘heavy’, Wade has constructed a beautifully told story.  The stalker plot has a surprising twist to it and anyone who has read the previous books in the series will certainly not be disappointed with the final installment.

I certainly enjoyed reading this and didn’t feel like I was missing too much from not having read about the other families. My only niggling doubt was the front cover – it doesn’t reflect the big, muscled man I would expect from an NFL player as described by Wade. But that, I suppose is a little irrelevant. A recommended read for fans of Christian and/or romance fiction.

I received a copy of this book to review from Bethany House publishers as part of their Bloggers Program. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

Seasons of Tomorrow (Amish Vines & Orchards Book 4) - Cindy Woodsmall

Rhoda Byler and Samuel King are co-owners of the Orchard Bend Farms along with Samuel's brother Jacob. The three became entangled in a bitter estrangement after Rhoda and Samuel fell in love - even though Rhoda was seeing Jacob. That was several months ago and like the seasons, life changes and continues.

The spirited young woman has healed somewhat from the break-up and is determined to see the farm grow successfully. Her God given gift of 'profound intuition' has become less of an issue as Samuel is the strength to her understanding of the present bestowed upon her.

Whilst the new couple toil the land, Jacob is taking on construction work and trying, with God's grace, to not become bitter about losing his girl to his brother. When he meets a vibrant, confident woman known affectionately as 'Shark Bait' the wounded man begins to believe that having a real friend and friendship is important to a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Winter turns to spring to summer all too soon and things are about to take a turn for the worse. Phoebe, Rhoda's sister in law, is expecting and the younger sister of Samuel, Leah, has fallen in love with the Englisher Landon Olson. They've managed to keep it a secret but as more Amish families have moved into Maine there's no telling who may have seen them together. Therefore, it's no surprise when her Daed comes to the farm guns blazing demanding she return to Pennsylvania.

But a sudden tragedy strikes and their faith is severely tested. Rhoda and Samuel are losing their help quickly and with the harvest soon upon them they turn to Jacob for help. Will the past hurt prevent his return and end their dreams of starting a new community in Maine?

The final book in the series sees the gutsy and passionate Rhodes finally in a relationship where her gifts are not only understood but accepted. Jacob slowly finds peace with what has happened yet there are hints of his mistrust of strong and courageous women. Is this really the path that God has chosen for them? When asked to return to help he's unsure of how he will react. Can the the three move past their bruised hearts and become friends once again? And will Leah be able to make the tough decision of leaving the Amish faith?

Another thoroughly enjoyable novel from the Vines and Orchards range. Romance abounds in addition to being detailed with raw and honest emotions. Woodsmall's book is articulate and expressive and completely engrossing. Beautifully written, book four provides a satisfying conclusion to the series without being rushed. It's sad to say goodbye to such well thought out and realistic characters as well as an inspiring story, I shall miss them! A very highly recommended read.

Previous reviews: (unfortunately I didn't review Book 1 but Cindy gives an excellent 'the story so far' introduction that you don't feel like you've missed out). The Winnowing Season (Book 2), For Every Season (Book 3)

Find out more about the author at: Cindy Woodsmall

I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of the Blogging for Books program from WaterBrook Press in exchange for a review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

Buried Biker ( A Jesse Damon Crime Novel) - K M Rockwood

Jesse Damon, ex-con trying to get on with life on the outside. That means, head down, work, occasional visit to the library and keeping far away from trouble. Unfortunately, trouble finds him all to easily.

When Detectives Montgomery and Belkins apprehend and bring him in for questioning, Jesse goes along with it, no questions just a 'yes sir, no sir'. But he's in for a shock when he's the told the reason for his 'arrest'. His girlfriend (and colleague from work) Kelly, has been raped and badly beaten. She's in hospital but people around her are saying it was Jesse that did it.

Caught between a rock and a hard place, Jesse needs to know what happened. Aware that Kelly's biker dad - someone he met whilst inside - is on release, Jesse kept away from Kelly's home. Hanging around known felons is a violation of his parole and the last thing he wants to do is go back inside.

Hounded by the two detectives, a reporter hell bent on getting a major scoop and striving to stay clear of Kelly's dad and his biker chums makes it very difficult to find out what exactly happened. How could she possibly think he had anything to do with the heinous crime and who's taking care of her two children?

The next episode after Fostering Death, Jesse finds himself, yet again in the thick of things. It seems no matter what this likable ex-con does he can't stop being accused of something. With the added problem of the reporter, a biker gang and avoiding get-rich-quick schemes from Aaron it doesn't take long for him to see the inside of jail. How can he stay off the radar?

Another gripping and brilliant chapter in the life story of Jesse Damon. Rockwood's gutsy, realistic story of an ex-jailbird continues to be engaging and absorbing. The style remains the same - easy to read with few yet distinctive descriptions of the environment that Jesse lives in; and the characters personalities continue to build and deepen. With an ending that leaves you wanting more, I can't wait to see what happens next. A highly recommended read for all crime genre fans.