Count Me In by Mikal Dawn ~ Reviewed

Count Me In

Mikal Dawn

ebook: 217

Publisher: 121 Publishing House

Language: English

USBN-10: BO713RQHQ7

Description: 

*This is a romantic comedy with a Christian worldview.

Allegra Spencer has been living a careful life. Her safe job as an accountant is bookended by going to church and the gym. Okay, sometimes the gym. Fine. She goes to church. And the coffee shop. She avoids risk at all cost, preferring to stay safe in her cozy condo. Until her accounting firm goes belly up and she's out of a job.

Tyler Hawk had a glorious career as a star NFL tight end. He retired on a high note and now lives a second dream of owning his own business and leading others on extreme outdoor adventures. But he needs help with his books--and his heart. When Allegra takes the job, sparks fly.

It's a case of safety zone versus danger zone, and in their minds, never the two shall meet.

Review:

When I learned this sweet and hilarious story was set in Seattle, I knew I wanted to read it. The theme of a security-loving account with a safety bubble about a mile wide who’s thrown into one adventure of another intrigued me. Interesting enough, I learned of this novel’s upcoming release around the same time my adult daughter chose to go parasailing—and invited me to join her. My response was quick and certain—No! In other words, I could relate to poor Allegra, and I felt her anxiety intensely, as she soared high above the ground. The fact that she was tethered to a sigh-worthy hero, however, made the experience appear at least somewhat enjoyable.

This was a unique, light-hearted read that provided me with numerous chuckles at the end of rather busy and stressful days. I recommend this novel for those looking for a clean, God-honoring romance that celebrates forever love.

Reviewed by: Jennifer Slattery

What Matters Most ~ Kellie Coates Gilbert ~ Reviewed

WHAT MATTERS MOST
Kellie Coates Gilbert
Series: Texas Gold Collection
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Revell (July 5, 2016)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0800722752

Back Cover

Just when she can't take it anymore, Leta finally catches a break. But when things seem too good to be true, they often are.

Finding her dream job went right out the window when Leta Breckenridge had to quit school to help care for her mother suffering from dementia. When a delinquent account may force her mother into a less desirable facility, Leta is thrilled to land a high-paying job at an Austin public relations firm. But her seemingly ideal job turns into a nightmare when she learns the firm is a front for a political opposition organization--and that the research she's been collecting will be used against Nathan Emerson, the handsome senator she's swiftly falling in love with.

Nathan is a rising political star being pressured to run a bid to unseat the current governor of Texas. He's already in a relationship with a woman much better suited to be a politician's wife, but he's never met anyone like Leta. Could this feisty woman hold the key to his heart--and his future?

With emotional depth and keen insight into what drives us, Kellie Coates Gilbert offers a salient story that calls us to consider what we value most in this life.


Review:

What Matters Most is about a young woman named Leta Breckenridge. She had to quit school to take on several jobs to pay for her mother's care in an assisted living facility, as her mother suffers with dementia. While leaving one of her jobs run night, she literally runs into Nathan Emerson, whom later finds out is a senator who is running for the office of governor. There is an instant attraction between the two, but neither really thinks anything of it. In the meantime, Leta manages to land a dream job with a company doing research, which enables her to keep paying for her mother's care. Little does she realize the companies true motives in research – being paid by politicians to find “dirt” on opponents. Leta doesn't realize this at first, and in the meantime, keeps running into Nathan. As her relationship with Nathan develops, so does the intensity of her job, as she realizes she is being paid six figures a year to try to ruin Nathan's career. Her conscious wins out over the need for money and she quits her job, but she highly underestimates the people she's been working for and the actions that they will take.

I really liked Nathan's character in particular in this book. In this day and age, we are so sick of politics and the fact that we don't feel like we can trust any of them. But Nathan was on the up and up, and is someone I would vote for. His character stayed flawless through the whole story. And I liked that Leta stayed true to what she knew was right instead of getting sucked into a bad job just for the money.

Reviewed by: Sarah Meyers

Out of the Frying Pan by Michelle Griep and Kelly Klepfer ~ Reviewed

Out of the Frying Pan

Michelle Griep and Kelly Klepfer

Paperback: 276

Publisher: Bling!

Language: English

USBN-10: 1938499131

When the chef of Sunset Paradise Retirement Village ends up dead, life for sisters Fern and Zula Hopkins is whipped into a froth. Their zany attempts to track down the killer land them in hot water with Detective Jared Flynn. Should he be concerned about their safety or the criminal's?

But there are deadly ingredients none of them expect. Drugs. Extortion. International cartels. And worst of all...broken hearts--especially when the Hopkins sisters' niece KC arrives on the scene.

Before the snooping pair gain any headway with the case, it becomes crystal clear that the sisters uncover a mysterious secret that takes life from the frying pan and into the line of fire.

Review:

For whenever you need a literal laugh-out-loud moment …

Out of the Frying Pan by Michelle Griep and Kelly Klepfer is a delightful cozy mystery with a bit of a sweet romance. The characters presented, from zany Zula and her roommate, Focused Fern to the handsome cop and niece caught between them, provide a perfect balance of humor and pragmatism, blending for an intriguing plot line that keeps one guessing on numerous levels.

Zula, the dumpster diving, flower saving sister-in-law/aunt is the Lucy Ricardo of the 21st century. Oh, the messes she gets herself in, from sneaking “stolen,” discarded plastic foliage into rusted old cars to stumbling upon a dead body. It’s no wonder her sister-in-law Fern lives in a perpetual state of exasperation. Zula was by far my favorite character, though Fern made her all the more delightful.

This is a fun story that will make you laugh on even your most melancholy of days, and the mystery was so skillfully presented, it will keep even the most skilled sleuths guessing.

Highly recommended.   

Reviewed by: Jennifer Slattery

Bonus Thoughts from Amazon Reviewers:

"A laugh out loud mystery with quirky, lovable characters who find themselves in all sorts of trouble. The storyline is believable and comes with descriptions of mouth-watering food, which makes for a delicious plot! A cohesive and fast-moving novel." 4-Stars! RT Book Reviews

“Out of the Frying Pan is a delicious cozy mystery! I loved the humor, the villain surprised me, and the main characters, Fern and Zula, are so richly drawn, they step off the pages and lead you on a merry chase. Masterfully written, it has all the elements of a great read: romance, murder, a dog, and humor. Did I mention the humor?” Ane Mulligan

“I loved this book. The authors, Michelle and Kelly, each writings from one of the two main character's viewpoint, developed a story line that was laugh out loud funny and entertaining. There are many minor characters, and together with the two main characters, they keep the pace moving quite fast while being believable. Scenes are well thought out and the setting, in a senior citizens neighborhood, gives a lot of twists and turns. There's murder, intrigue, romance, love, family relationships -- all written in a fun style. I can't wait for the next book in this series.” John Vonhof

“Who knew life in a seniors community could be so wild, suspenseful, and hilarious? Sisters-in-law Fern and Zula Hopkins are opposite in every way except age. How they keep from killing one another is a mystery, but that's not the mystery of this book. Their zany antics to solve the murder of the cook keeps detective Jared Flynn on his toes. Cozy mysteries are my favorite, and this one is good, with a twist ending that caught me by surprise (the best kind).”  Debra Butterfield

“Absolutely loved every word of Out of the Frying Pan! Having read other of Michelle Griep's work, I knew I was in store for a great story and Out of the Frying Pan did not disappoint. Quirky characters, high adventure. Can't ask for much more. I highly recommend this cozy little romance with a side of murder!” Deanne Davis

Lori Benton's A Flight of Arrows ~ Reviewed

A FLIGHT OF ARROWS

Book 2 in the Pathfinder Series

By Lori Benton

Waterbrook

April 2016

ISBN 1601427344

BACK COVER:

It is said that what a man sows he will reap--and for such a harvest there is no set season. No one connected to Reginald Aubrey is untouched by the crime he committed twenty years ago. 

Not William, the Oneida child Reginald stole and raised as his own. Identity shattered, enlisted in the British army, William trains with Loyalist refugees eager to annihilate the rebels who forced them into exile. Coming to terms with who and what he is proves impossible, but if he breaks his Loyalist oath, he'll be no better than the man who constructed his life of lies.

Not Anna, Reginald's adopted daughter, nor Two Hawks, William's twin, both who long for Reginald to accept their love despite the challenges they will face, building a marriage that bridges two cultures. 

Not Good Voice and Stone Thrower, freed of bitterness by a courageous act of forgiveness, but still yearning for their firstborn son and fearful for the future of their Oneida people.

As the British prepare to attack frontier New York and Patriot regiments rally to defend it, two families separated by culture, united by love, will do all in their power to reclaim the son marching toward them in the ranks of their enemies.

MY REVIEW:

Action. Adventure. Romance. And a healthy dose of history. All this and more are in store for you in this rousing historical tale.

I love the way author Lori Benton captures the speech pattern of the Oneida Native Americans. Is it true to form? I have no idea, but I could sure hear their voice in my head. 

I also love the way Anna Catherine and Two Hawks finally get to . . . umm . . . I suppose I shouldn't give it away. Let's just say their story will leave you satisfied.

I did get a little annoyed, however, with William. Yeah, I understand he had a rough life and felt betrayed and all that, but that doesn't excuse his stupid choices. Stupid man. But I suppose such strong feelings toward a fictional character are the sign of a fantastic author, eh?

If you're interested in the Revolutionary War era, plus a sweet little love story, this is the book for you.

Reviewed by: Michelle Griep


Bonus Review:

A Flight of Arrows is book two in the Path Finders Series. This book continues where book one left off. The Revolutionary War is about to begin, as the British and the Continentals build their armies. William has left to fight for the British, after finding out his father, Reginald Aubrey, kidnapped him at birth, separating him from his twin brother and parents. He also found out that his birth mother was white and his birth father was an Indian. His brother, Two Hawks, and father, Stone Thrower, are on a mission to find him before something happens to him, and before the war reaches their home.

I was SO excited to finally get this book. Book number one really left me hanging. The author did a great job of letting the story build, telling it from different points of view. I had really had no idea how things were going to come together, and I have to confess, I had no idea it would end as it would, but even thought it wasn't how I may have ended, the way the author wrapped things up was wonderful and glorifying to God. This is one of the first series I've read that I thought would make a wonderful movie.

Reviewed by: Sarah Meyers

Erynn Mangum's Paige Alder Series ~ Reviewed

Paige Alder Series

Erynn Mangum

• Age Range: 12 and up 
• Series: Paige Alder (Book 1)
• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: TH1NK (May 15, 2013 thru April 2014)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1612912982

From book one: Page Torn

Paige Alder’s life is suddenly busier than she can handle. With no time for laundry and lucky to grab a cheese stick for dinner, it’s all she can do to get a precious few hours’ sleep. But when she meets attractive and thoughtful Tyler, will there be time for love?

Review: 

This trio of ARCS was sent to me a long time ago from the publicist and I've just been able to get to them. Is a late review better than no review? I'm going to just say yes .

Paige is young. 

At my mid-century mark I am more inclined to think like a mother figure than a girlfriend. But, I enjoyed Paige's coming of age story, broken into three novels, very much. 

Author Erynn Mangum writes with wit and paints very sympathetic and endearing characters. My favorite characters are Layla and Tyler. However, I don't know that I would want to be Layla's maid of honor. Just sayin.

Paige's world is in turmoil over a several month period and she has a lot of growing up and maturing that she is forced to do. The sweet relationship she has with her youth pastor friend is a really excellent picture of the mentoring and discipling that happens when the spiritually mature love, accept and help the ones who are quite there yet. 

If you need a chick-lit type series that is more about spiritual growth and less about fashion, here's a great one to start with. This would also be a safe clean read for teen girls who devour books. 

Reviewed by: Kelly Klepfer 

Eva Marie Everson's The Road to Testament ~ Reviewed

The Road to Testament
Eva Marie Everson
Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Abingdon Press (April 1, 2014)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1426757980

Description: 

Ashlynne Rothschild never wanted to be a people person. She learned a long time ago that the more she protected herself from the details of people’s personal lives, the better off her life would be. So it comes as a surprise when she finds herself liking—if not loving—the good, God-fearing people of Testament, North Carolina, where she is sent to earn her chops as a reporter. And it is with some anxiety that she unearths a story that could turn these people against her. Beneath the picturesque setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains, secrets are buried—one secret in particular. Keeping it hidden would go against Ashlynne’s journalistic integrity, but publishing the story would hurt those she’s learned to love—even her gruff, unapproachable boss, William Decker, who harbors mysteries of his own. Ashlynne has two options: run away or expose the truth of Testament . . . whatever the cost? 

Review:

The Road to Testament is about a young woman named Ashlynne Rothschild. She grew up in a life of privilege, having Grandparent's who own a successful magazine, which Ashlynne expects to inherit. However, her family decides she needs to expand her horizons a bit, and get out of her comfort zone. Therefore, before she can move up in the company, she is sent to a small town called Testament, North Carolina. It's in Testament where her Grandparent's started their first small magazine with their best friends, who now run the local paper and want to get the magazine going again. Ashlynne must prove herself there before she can return to the family magazine. She doesn't expect to have to work for the boss's handsome grandson, William Decker, who seems to dislike her from the very beginning. Ashlynne's low opinion of herself from early childhood experiences cause her to second guess herself, yet want to prove herself at the same time. In the meantime, she finds herself strangely attracted to this man that can't seem to stand her. In the meantime, amidst her journalistic digging, she uncovers some news that is going on town that could be devastating both to her career, to the town, and the new friendships she's made.

I loved this book. I don't know what it was about it. Maybe the big city girl going to the small town and finding she liked it. Maybe being envious of her getting to go to that small town America home to live, away from the city life. I was so excited to see her start to relax and enjoy the slow pace life there. The author did a great job of transporting me to Testament. I found myself wanting to vacation there. And I liked the characters and the storyline A LOT, too. I highly recommend this book. I had a hard time putting it down.

Reviewed by: Sarah Meyers

Bonus Review: 

I received this book from the publisher without agreeing to review it. I always give the uncommitted novels a once over and pass on genres or style I'm pretty sure I will struggle to like. The Road to Testament ended up in my keep-and-get-to-it-eventually pile. I'm so glad I did keep the book. 

Everson grabbed my attention immediately with strong writing and story telling. The characters develop right away, and keep some interesting details to themselves revealing in snippets only as necessary to move the story along. The romance was sweet and fun but avoided cheesy and didn't trigger my eye rolling muscles. 

Ashylynne and William both grew and learned a few things about life on their journey. Everson painted a lovely community in Testament that had me wanting to visit. Even though this story is a couple of years past first publication its well worth the time investment to read it. 

Reviewed by: Kelly Klepfer

Rosaria Champagne Butterfield's The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert: An English Professor's Journey into Christian Faith ~ Reviewed

The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert: An English Professor's Journey into Christian Faith
By Rosaria Champagne Butterfield
Crown & Covenant Publications
2012
ISBN B0097G05F8


BACK COVER:


Rosaria, by the standards of many, was living a very good life. She had a tenured position at a large university in a field for which she cared deeply. She owned two homes with her partner, in which they provided hospitality to students and activists that were looking to make a difference in the world. There, her partner rehabilitated abandoned and abused dogs. In the community, Rosaria was involved in volunteer work. At the university, she was a respected advisor of students and her department's curriculum. And then, in her late 30s, Rosaria encountered something that turned her world upside down-the idea that Christianity, a religion that she had regarded as problematic and sometimes downright damaging, might be right about who God was, an idea that flew in the face of the people and causes that she most loved. What follows is a story of what she describes as a "train wreck" at the hand of the supernatural. These are her secret thoughts about those events, written as only a reflective English professor could.

MY REVIEW:

First off, I'm not usually a non-fiction reader. Oh, I slog through several a year because "they're good for you." Whatever. This one, however, didn't take much slogging because it reads more like a story.

Probably because it is.

The Secret Thoughts of An Unlikely Convert reads like a piece of fiction because it is the story of Rosaria Champagne Butterfield's life. She is a highly intellectual woman with the skill of breaking down lofty thoughts into words that the average Joe can understand (no offense to any Joseph's out there). Coming from a lesbian background, she tells about her conversion to Christianity. It's quite the life changing event.

She offers insight on many topics besides homosexuality, such as worship, homeschooling, and adoption. If you're looking for a fresh perspective on these issues, give this book a whirl.

Reviewed by: Michelle Griep