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Saturday, October 8, 2016

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Putting on the Witch
by Joyce and Jim Lavene

Epic. One word to describe this book.
From the first book in this series I was spell bound.
~Karen’s Reviews 
What a great read by a couple that is dearly missed. Like all their other books this will keep you guessing and wishing there were more books to read.
~Sleuth Cafe
Contained between the covers of this book is an epic, magical adventure that carried me away in a mystical cloud of reading. I marvel that the written word could transport me in such a way.
~Lisa K’s Book Reviews
PUTTING ON THE WITCHPutting on the Witch (Retired Witches Mysteries) 
Cozy Mystery
3rd in Series
Berkley (October 4, 2016)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
ISBN-13: 978-0425268278
E-Book – ASIN: B01AHKXHTS
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Synopsis

With their coven’s spell book still missing, Molly and Elsie—along with their ghostly friend Olivia, her daughter Dorothy, and her boyfriend Brian—are all on edge, especially now that Dorothy’s infamously wicked father is back in the picture. So when they receive an invitation to an exclusive Witches Ball, the ladies jump at the chance to dress up and have some fun.
The castle locale is spectacular and the party is hopping, but the festivities come to a swift end when a member of the Grand Council of Witches is murdered. With the whole place on lock down, the coven is determined to find the cunning killer, even with an angry council and a real Spanish Inquisitor breathing down their necks…
I just love this picture of Joyce and Jim
I just love this picture of Joyce and Jim
About The Authors
Joyce and Jim Lavene wrote award-winning, bestselling mystery fiction as themselves, J.J. Cook, and Ellie Grant. They had written and published more than 70 novels for Harlequin, Berkley, Amazon, and Gallery Books along with hundreds of non-fiction articles for national and regional publications. Joyce passed away October 20, 2015 and Jim passed on May 5, 2016. They are missed by family, friends and their many fans.
Purchase links:
Amazon – Barnes and Noble 


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I am honored that I was able to read and review this book by two amazing authors. Their passion for writing shows in every book as they entertain readers with their wit, charm and love for writing. I am saddened by their passing and it is a great loss to the Literary World. I treasure every book I have from these gifted authors and know that  their words will live on as they inspire others . Thank you for giving me books that are whimsical, fun, entertaining and written with love.


I love books that grab me right from the beginning. This book is one you will want to read without stopping. There was no way I could put this book down as the characters came to life and captured my attention. The story drew me in instantly and I was off to spend time with Molly, Elsie and the other well written characters. Now what is someone to do when their coven spell book is still missing? To add to the problem is the great return of Dorothy's father.  I have to say his character was written so well that I kinda didn't like him.

I won't give too much away but I will say that a murder has occurred and everyone is scrambling trying to figure out who the killer is. I always think I can figure out the ending and who the killer is in every book but I was pleasantly surprised that I didn't know who it was till the end. The authors weave a tale  of adventure, suspense and highjinks that bring the story to a riveting end. What more could you ask for in a phenomenal para cozy book when you have ghosts, a killer on the loose , a grand witches ball and a mystery that is sure to keep readers guessing.

I received a copy of this book from the Great Escapes Book Tours.  My review was my own opinion and I was not compensated for it.

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Tour Participants
October 3 – Back Porchervations – REVIEW
October 3 – Queen of All She Reads – SPOTLIGHT
October 3 – Blogger Nicole – SPOTLIGHT
October 4 – Sleuth Cafe – REVIEW, SPOTLIGHT
October 4 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW*
October 4 – The Angry Grey Cat Reads – REVIEW
October 5 – The Book’s the Thing – REVIEW*
October 5 – I Read What You Write – REVIEW (Interview)
October 6 – Book Babble – REVIEW
October 6 – Cozy Up With Kathy – SPOTLIGHT
October 6 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW
October 7 – Mallory Heart’s Cozies – REVIEW, SPOTLIGHT
October 7 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – REVIEW*
October 8 – Texas Book-aholic – REVIEW*
October 8 – Community Bookstop – REVIEW*
October 9 – Shelley’s Book Case – REVIEW*
October 9 – fuonlyknew – REVIEW*
October 10 – Socrates’ Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
October 10 – Cassidy Salem Reads & Writes – SPOTLIGHT
October 11 – A Holland Reads – REVIEW, SPOTLIGHT*
October 11 – Deal Sharing Aunt – REVIEW*
October 12 – A Chick Who Reads – REVIEW
October 12 – A Blue Million Books – SPOTLIGHT
October 13 – Booth Talks Books – REVIEW*
October 13 – The Cozy Mystery Journal – REVIEW
October 14 – Brooke Blogs – REVIEW, SPOTLIGHT*
October 15 – Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
October 16 – Bibliophile Reviews – REVIEW  
October 16 – Island Confidential – SPOTLIGHT
October 17 – LibriAmoriMiei – REVIEW
October 17 – MysteriesEtc – REVIEW
October 18 – Kathy Loves 2 Read – REVIEW
October 19 – ChristyMystery – REVIEW
October 20 – My Interdimensional Chaos – REVIEW
October 21 – Murder, Mystery & More… – REVIEW
October 22 – centraleast2 – REVIEW
October 23 – Lori’s Reading Corner – SPOTLIGHT
October 24 – The Girl with Book Lungs – SPOTLIGHT
October 24 – Polished Nails and Puppy Dog Tales – REVIEW
Joining us with Reviews/Spotlights
Nicole G.
Linda L.
Kendrea P.
Robin C.
Daniele K.
Lisa C.
Stacie A.
Brittany A.
Kathy D.
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Tuesday, October 4, 2016




SpringsAn Eternity Springs NovelEmily March 
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Everyone wants to believe in the magic of the holiday season, and the warmth and love it brings. Readers won’t hesitate to put Emily March’s newest novel on their wish list! Finding love during Christmas time is a special gift, and sometimes we must work even harder to keep alive the spirit of Christmas that first ignited the relationship—especially when a secret from the past is revealed that demands to be heard.  CHRISTMAS IN ETERNITY SPRINGS (St. Martin’s Paperbacks, Oct. 4th, 2016, $7.99) is the newest and 12th novel in the New York Times bestselling Eternity Springs series by Emily March.

After a devastating betrayal, Claire Branham packs up the pieces of her life, along with a twenty-million-dollar secret, and moves to Eternity Springs. She opens a specialty shop—Forever Christmas—and, with the help of a surprise romance with the town’s sexy new handyman, Claire’s heart begins to heal. Until her past comes knocking…

Jax Lancaster never questioned the need to abandon his career as a Navy submariner in order to care for his young son in the wake of his ex-wife’s death. Desperate to help with this loss, Jax straps on a tool belt to give Nicholas the one thing he wants: A life in Eternity Springs. What Jax never expected to find was a second chance at love with a fascinating woman for whom Christmas has become a business. But when the truth about Claire threatens their newfound happiness, can Jax prove to her that in Eternity Springs, the spirit of Christmas is real. . .and will last a lifetime?
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Emily March is the New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty novels, including the critically acclaimed Eternity Springs series. Publishers Weekly calls March a "master of delightful banter," and her heartwarming, emotionally charged stories have been named to Best of the Year lists by Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and Romance Writers of America. A graduate of Texas A&M University, Emily is an avid fan of Aggie sports and her recipe for jalapeño relish has made her a tailgating legend.Emily March Website
Twitter: @EmilyMarchBooks
Facebook: Emily March
Pinterest: Emily March
Buy Links:
Barnes & Noble
Macmillan


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Oh how I wish I could live in Eternity Springs. The town  is quaint and ready for the holiday season. The lights are bright with color and the decorations are festive and inviting. The author once again has written a story that can easily be visualized by her excellent words that bring the town and characters to life.

Claire may not be the happiest person in Eternity Springs, but after a horrible breakup anything would be an improvement. She has some sad memories that will really get to her during the holiday hustle and bustle. What better way to brighten your spirit then to open a cute little Christmas themed shop. Claire hopes this will help her get over her kinda stinky attitude. Can you say bah humbug?

Jax Lancaster has just finished his tour with the US Navy and is now taking care of his son. I'm sure that is a challenge for him especially after the death of Jax's ex. Nicholas is going through a tough time, but with the help of his dad, maybe he can be a happy kid again. Nicholas has really enjoyed his time in Eternity Springs and wants to stay there. When Jax and Claire run into each other sparks fly across the sky. Could this be a new beginning for both of them? I loved the chemistry between the two and the author does a great job of blossoming their attraction to one another. But alas, it seems like obstacles keep pulling this budding romance apart. Whatever can go wrong, certainly does for these two . Will they ever find true happiness?

This is a great story that takes people through hard times, unhappiness , trauma that keeps someone in limbo and a rich and moving message of the true meaning of Christmas. It is so well written I could picture it as a Hall Mark Movie, complete with all the emotions that make a story so endearing. Don't miss this this great book that will have you laughing , crying and a feeling of the Christmas spirit.

I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.








THE CAUTIOUS MAIDEN by DAWN CRANDALL

The anticipation of a new book in a series is exciting and an adrenelin  rush. When I finally got this beautiful book in my hands, I decided that I wasn't moving until i read  the entire book. The author has done an amazing job of writing a story rich in history and characters full of life. The story came to life as I was taken back to 1892.

We find Violet Hawthorne in the Northern part of Maine. She has been devasted but the loss of her parents and her home. That sure is a lot to take in for a young woman who thought everything was going so well. What did her brother do to their home that made it unliveable  for her? Now she has to find a new place and a way to support herself and that is not going to be easy.  Can you imagine living in that era and having to start over? Where will she go and will she ever be able to trust again?

Vance Everstone is a complex man. He really tries to do his best but it never turns out good for him. It seems that he is known as the black sheep in the family. When I read that, I thought about the one sheep that was left behind and God went after that lonely forgotten sheep. It's not easy to be  thought of as the black sheep in a family. No one ever trusts you and when you decide to change, everyone doubts you. Vance really has his work cut out for him when he desires to completely change his reputation. I love stories about bad guys who slowly surrender to God and is transformed by His grace and mercy. Will Vance be able to trust God as he tries to get his life back on track? The author has written a character that made me mesmerized by his strength and willingness to change.

The story will take readers on a journey of forgiveness and trust with twists throughout  that will captivate the readers. I loved how Vance came to the rescue of Violet and I'm sure she was probably a bit surprised. After all, isn't he known as the bad guy, the black sheep of the family? What surprise  question does Vance ask Violet that will find herself going to Boston?  Get ready for an adventure that is full of action, unforgettable characters and a story rich in faith, love and trust.

I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
"THE DEVOTED" iPad Mini Giveaway



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You’re invited back to Stoney Ridge for a story of dreams deferred and hopes fulfilled in The Devoted.

Bright, curious, and restless, Ruthie Stoltzfus loves her family but is stuck in a sea of indecision about her future: Should she stay Amish? Or should she leave? She’s done all she can to prepare to go–passed the GED, saved her money–but she can’t quite set her journey into motion.

Patrick Kelly is a young man on a journey of his own. He’s come to Stoney Ridge to convert to the Amish and has given himself thirty days to learn the language, drive a buggy, and adapt to “everything Plain.” Time, to Patrick, is of the essence. Every moment is to be cherished, especially the hours he spends with Ruthie, his Penn Dutch tutor.

Ruthie’s next-door neighbor and cunning ex-boyfriend, Luke Schrock, is drawn to trouble like a moth to a flame. Rebellious, headstrong, defiant, Luke will do anything to win Ruthie back–anything–and Patrick Kelly is getting in his way.

Suzanne is celebrating the release of The Devoted with a special giveaway!

One winner will receive:
  • A copy of The Devoted
  • An iPad Mini 2 16GB
Enter today, but hurry! The giveaway ends on November 2. The winner will be announced November 3 on Suzanne's blog.

Enter to win by filling out the giveaway widget below, or click the graphic above to enter to win.

Monday, October 3, 2016


THE LOOMING STORM by DIANE/DAVID MUNSON

It is hard to believe that I have not read a book by these authors. After reading this explosive high volume action and suspenseful story,  I will be going back and looking for more of their books. The story is packed with characters that are strong , determined and fierce. I loved how the characters prayed about things and put Him first in every decision.

Eva Montana is a federal agent for ICE and is very good at her job. She is smart, and very detail oriented. These qualities make her well known and a person you would want on your side. When her daughter goes on a class trip to Poland, Eva tells her to be careful and to always be aware of her surroundings. I don't know if I could let one of my children go off on a trip overseas.  I loved the faith that Eva and her husband David had . While on her trip Kaley runs into danger.  This leads to a very dangerous rescue attempt.  Will Kaley's parents use their influence to get their daughter to safety? I absolutely love the action in this  book. It flows seamlessly with edge of your seat thrills that makes you feel chills up and down your spine.


The story is riveting and involves Russian spies that will have the Mansons  racing to find out the truth and stop whatever plots the Russians are involved in. Their faith is unwavering as danger surrounds them. Can they find out the truth behind the Russians plot? As the intense danger increases, the authors do a great job of keeping readers guessing and a book that you will not be able to put down. This is one of the best thrillers I've read in awhile .  I loved the details that made the story so believable where danger is around every corner, secrets that could cause destruction and an ending that you won't forget.

"Worry is really thinking God won't get it right."

I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.

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Lethal Lifestyles
by LynDee Walker

lrthal lifestyles
Lethal Lifestyles (A Headlines in High Heels Mystery)
Henery Press (September 27, 2016)
Paperback: 262 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1635110654
E-Book ASIN: B01HOS85XE
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Synopsis

Wedding bells are ringing at the Richmond Telegraph, and maid of honor Nichelle Clarke is determined to give her friends the perfect fairytale beginning to their happily ever after. So when a corpse crashes rehearsal weekend, Nichelle ditches her wedding coordinator shoes for her crime reporter ones, and a little poking around turns up a big problem: the victim and the groom have a history, and it’s not a pretty one.
Evidence against groom Grant Parker piles up, leaving Nichelle wishing a hostile bridesmaid was still her biggest worry as she tries to fend off Richmond’s favorite TV reporter—and her own scheming publisher. At odds with the cops, her beloved editor, and the ticking clock, Nichelle races to uncover the truth and save the day before this perfect wedding turns into a funeral.
Books in the Headlines in High Heels Mystery Series:
FRONT PAGE FATALITY (#1)
BURIED LEADS (#2)
•DATELINE MEMPHIS (novella after BURIED LEADS in
HEARTACHE MOTEL)
SMALL TOWN SPIN (#3)
DEVIL IN THE DEADLINE (#4)
COVER SHOT (#5)
LETHAL LIFESTYLES (#6)
LynDee headshot

About This Author

LynDee Walker is the author of the national bestselling Headlines in High Heels mystery series, beginning with the Agatha Award-nominated FRONT PAGE FATALITY (2013).
The newest book in the series, LETHAL LIFESTYLES, will be published on September 27, 2016.
Before she started writing mysteries, LynDee was an award-winning journalist. Her work has appeared in newspapers and magazines across the U.S.
She adores her family, her readers, and enchiladas. She often works out tricky plot points while walking off the enchiladas. She lives in Richmond, Virginia, where she is either playing with her children, working on her next novel, or admiring beautiful shoes she can’t wear.
Author Links
Webpage – www.lyndeewalker.com
Twitter @LynDeeWalker
Purchase Links:
Amazon – B&N –KOBO 

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The evening is perfect and the guests are having a great time. Well who wouldn't be having a great time at a wedding rehearsal located at the beautiful Calais Winery  in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. What a picturesque place to hold a wedding. Nichelle has made sure that everything is perfect for her friends wedding.  She has been running herself ragged between her job as a crime reporter  and maid of honor duties. She has checked off every minute detail and is basking  in the calm setting and happy faces. But alas, that happy feeling is about to end when a body is discovered on the premises.

I loved the description about the winery and the details about how wine is processed. I felt like I was there sipping the wine with the guests by the vibrant ways the author brought readers to the scene with perfection . Now that a body has been discovered, it could put a damper on the whole wedding thing. Nichelle is off and running trying to salvage the rehearsal dinner while trying to distract the guests from finding out there is a dead body as an uninvited guest. What will the bride and groom do when they find out? Who will be accused of the murder?

The story is riveting and has wonderful characters throughout the book. Nichelle is smart, funny and a crackerjack at solving mysteries. When the dead person's name is revealed, it will cause chaos and finger pointing. There is a long list of suspects and Nichelle is determined to make the wedding go on without a hitch. Good luck with that Nichelle. The author does an amazing job of making readers stay on the edge of their seat in this explosive mystery. I thought for  sure I knew who the killer was, but the ending sure proved me wrong. It is a masterfully written whodunit with twists that surprised me.

Get ready for a book that you won't be able to put down.  Even though this is the sixth in the series, you don't need to start with the first book to understand what is going on. I recommend you go back and read the other books in this series because the writing style is edgy and unforgettable.

"Just when I think I know where this train is going, we change tracks."


I received a copy of this book from The Great Escapes Book Tours for an honest review.





Tour Participants

September 27 – Island Confidential – INTERVIEW
September 28 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – COZY WEDNESDAY
September 29 – Books, Dreams, Life – SPOTLIGHT
September 30 – The Girl with Book Lungs –  SPOTLIGHT
October 1 – Community Bookstop – INTERVIEW  
October 2 – Christa Reads and Writes – REVIEW
October 3 – Texas Book-aholic – REVIEW
October 4 – Bibliophile Reviews – REVIEW  
October 5 – Pulp and Mystery Shelf – INTERVIEW
October 6 – Shelley’s Book Case – REVIEW
October 7 – Jersey Girl Book Reviews – REVIEW
October 8 – CelticLady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
October 9 – Readeropolis – SPOTLIGHT
October 10 – Back Porchervations – REVIEW
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