“Anything but Plain” by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Posted on October 25, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Here Comes Trouble?

Born and bred Amish, including being a bishop’s daughter, Lydie can’t seem to fit in, almost everything she touches backfires. She is easily distracted, forgets important things, and causes chaos wherever she goes. No one is more unhappy by her behavior than Lydie herself, but even though she tries her hardest, she can’t stop getting into trouble.

She has loved Nathan all her life, and he loves her, but something is being held over Lydie’s head that causes her to stop the relationship. Are they doomed to be apart, and both unhappy without the other?

Nathan and his brother, Mick, are in a contest that will change the course of their lives. Their father has pitted them against each other. Mick will be using chemicals while Nathan will use organic methods to grow their crops. Whoever has the biggest harvest will win the entire farm.

Doc may have the answer to Lydie’s problem, but her father does not want her taking medicine. Is there a drug-free way for Lydie to get help?

Lydie’s grandmother is a domineering woman, negative, and will not tolerate anyone disagreeing with her. She brings her own form of mayhem, and has just decided to move in and “fix” Lydie. Will Lydie only get worse from this treatment?

Lying and conniving is going on in this tale, with many people not what they seem. This is a highly entertaining book that you won’t want to put down. Despite all the fun, the tale has a serious side that covers adult medical issues that can be helped with the right care.

You might recognize yourself, or someone you know, in the pages of this story. I recommend this five-star book to those who enjoy well-written Amish tales, or modern stories.

Revell Books has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Anything but Plain, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/SuzanneWoodsFisherAuthor

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/suzannewfisher

The Author’s Website:  https://suzannewoodsfisher.com

 

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“Dog Days of Summer” by Kathleen Y’Barbo

Posted on October 20, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Hot Dog!

Trina is a hard-working, famous Nashville singer who has missed out on a lot of family life while devoting herself to her career. Her mom and niece Mari, are the only family she has. Now her mom has had a string of accidents, while Mari has been having dangerous incidents occur at her dog rescue, Second Chance Ranch.

Trina vows to spend more time back home in Brenham, Texas, so she can watch over the both of them. To that end, she buys a home there. But doing so has caused her record producer to become so furious that he threatens not to renew her contract. Will Trina give up her beloved singing career to be with her family?

In the meantime, more treacherous incidents occur at Second Chance Ranch. Why is a dog rescue, one that is not fully off-the-ground yet, being threatened?

Wyatt was Trina’s high-school prom date, as well as, her long-time friend and lawyer. He made it big without leaving Brenham, and comes to Trina’s aid in all the predicaments that happen to her. Could Wyatt have had feelings for Trina ever since their decades earlier high school date?

Despite being the second installment in a series, this story definitely stands alone. But read the first book, it is lots of fun, and good, too!

This clean mystery is written from a Christian viewpoint, contains red herrings, danger, and humor along with lots of twists and turns. Despite funny incidents, this is a serious tale that will keep you turning the pages. I highly recommend this five-star book to fans of mysteries and well-written fiction.

Barbour Books has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Dog Days of Summer, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/kathleen.ybarbo

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/kathleen_ybarbo/

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/kathleenybarbo

The Author’s Website:  https://kathleenybarbo.com/

 

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“Word of Honor” by Hallee Bridgeman

Posted on October 13, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

The Past is Not Today!

Lynda and Bill have a history, a bad one, but neither have seen each other for ten years. Today, both of them are in the military. They have an assignment that will require them to pretend to be married, while doing undercover work. An environmental group has become increasingly violent. Their statements about their cause have resulted in lots of damage and people dying. Hoping to catch the ones behind it, the American military has sent them to the Middle East.

Lynda and Bill are shocked to see each other again, and that they have to work together. Can they put aside the emotional baggage from the past, and pull off the deception? When they get the bad guys, can they get enough intel out of them to find the one behind all the violence?

This globe trotting story has clashes with dangerous people, as well as, intense interrogation of the bad guys. Lynda attempts to analyze that information to discover their next movements. Her work is showing that something bigger is going to happen. Stopping terrorism is always the goal, but will they be able to do so this time before the large attack Lynda fears?

Bill’s story continues from the last book with more information about him, and introduces Lynda. Bill is struggling with the direction his life should go, and if he should stay in the military.  He has lots of pain from the past due to his mother’s terrible neglect of him while he grew up.  The characters face lots of difficulties, and some turn to God for help navigating through them. This clean, five-star book will be enjoyed by fans of thrillers and action.

Revell Books has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Word of Honor, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/authorhalleebridgeman/

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/halleebridgeman/

The Author’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/halleeb

The Author’s Website:  https://www.halleebridgeman.com/books-by-series/

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“Everywhere with You” by Carlie Sorosiak

Posted on October 9, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Smiles and Joy!

A lonely dog and a little girl with a big heart come together to become great friends.  As they get to know one another, their hearts become entwined with each other.  The two live side by side, and they spend lots of time together on each side of the fence that divides their yards.

Despite the fence separating them, the two have lots of adventures.  When the little girl reads books to her canine friend, in their imaginations, they live out the tales together.

This is an adorable book.  The illustrations are wonderful, and add even more delight to the story.  A surprise twist at the end, makes a way for everyone involved to be very happy.

I cannot recommend this over-sized, five-star picture book enough, hurry out and get a copy.  This is a sweet and endearing tale.  It will bring smiles and joy to all who see it, and will be loved by children up to third grade.

Walker Books and Candlewick provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Everywhere with You, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/carliesorosiak/

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/carliesorosiak/

The Author’s Website:  https://carliesorosiak.com/

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“Sundown” by Susan May Warren

Posted on October 8, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Chasing Spies, Falling in Love!

Tae, a scientist, has been desperately working on a vaccine to combat a deadly virus. She starts dating Sergei who, unknown to her, is a Russian spy who wants her research. He plans to let the virus loose in a crowed place in America. He kidnaps her, and in an attempt to escape, she causes the plane they are in to crash. Tae finds herself in the Alaskan wilderness in the winter, where she has been left for dead. Just barely alive, she is taken in by the Kingston family.

Not really believing her incredible story of kidnapping, spies and research, the Kingstons agree to help her. However, they soon find themselves, especially Colt, pulled into danger. Because she couldn’t get her notes back, Tae tries to replicate what she had done to create a vaccine. Colt and Tae criss cross the country trying to stay one-step ahead of the bad guys, but capture the virus before it is discharged. By doing this, will they be exposed and die? Have the Russians targeted Disney World as the place of release?

During the twists and turns in the finale of the series, there will be bombings, incredible escapes and intense clashes. Drones, secret agencies, and even the president of the United States will be involved. This book could stand alone, but it will be much more enjoyable if at least the previous installment is read. Despite the entire world’s recent pandemic and vaccine debate, the author makes this story fresh, and it is not a retelling of current events.

Hopefully, there will be future stories about the Kingston family adventures! This is a clean, five-star book with a Christian viewpoint. Romance is sprinkled through the story. Everyone who likes excitement and adventure will enjoy this thrilling tale!

The Library Thing and Revell Books has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Sundown, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/SusanMayWarrenFiction

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/susanmaywarren/

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/susanmaywarren

The Author’s Website:  www.susanmaywarren.com

 

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“A Quilt for Christmas” by Melody Carlson

Posted on October 5, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

New Place, New Christmas Celebrations!

When little Fiona knocks on Vera’s door begging for help, both of their world’s change. Widowed Vera is a recent transplant who regrets her move and is horribly lonely. Five-year-old Fiona is desperate to know what to do for her sick mom.

Before Vera knows it, she is pulled into caring for Fiona and her two siblings while their mom has surgery–which morphs into helping them daily.

When Fiona discovers the patchwork quilt Vera spent lots of time making with the help of friends, she begs Vera to make one for her mom. Vera tells her it is impossible to make without help–and she doesn’t know anyone in this new place–plus there isn’t enough time to make it for Christmas. Despite that, Fiona tells her two siblings that they will have a wonderful quilt for their mom this Christmas.

That is how Vera finds herself with three women: Tasha, Beverly and Eleanor, strangers who have agreed to help with the quilt in exchange for sewing lessons. When they first get-together, Eleanor was grouchy, but as time goes on, her surliness increases.

Will Eleanor ruin the quilting group, preventing the quilt from being made? Is there enough time to have it finished by Christmas? What will Eleanor do when she discovers who her son is dating?

This little Christmas tale will charm you, and usher in the Christmas spirit. The characters are so endearing, I hope the author will continue their stories in the future. Christian faith is not talked about, but can be seen in many of the people’s actions. Anyone who is delighted by Christmas will enjoy this clean, five-star book.

Revell Books has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, A Quilt for Christmas, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/melodycarlsonauthor/

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/authormelodycarlson/

The Author’s Website:  https://melodycarlson.com

 

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“To Win a Prince” by Toni Shiloh

Posted on September 29, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Finding Treasure on a Tropical Island!

Welcome to the amazing African island country, Ọlọrọ Ilé.  Iris, an American transplant, is best friends with the queen.  Iris has started a sustainable clothing line, Aso, to highlight the talents of the women of the country, and to help lift them out of poverty.

As punishment for being part of a conspiracy to over-throw the queen, Ekon must work as an advisor for Aso. Despite Ekon being pompous, self-centered, and selfish, Iris is drawn to him. He has lots of great ideas for her business, and helps Iris navigate the red tape for setting up Aso.

Can Ekon survive after losing all his possessions, status and friends? Will Aso become a successful, thriving business, and really help people? Despite Ekon’s lack of belief in God, will Iris ignore it, and pursue a relationship with him? Will Ekon’s idea for his own business support him?

This fish-out-of-water story is the second book in a series, but the tale stands on its own. I liked the first book, but this story is even better.  It is hard to believe the Ọlọrọ Ilé is not a real place. 

This clean story is full of twists and turns, as well as, the character’s faith that spurs them on to do surprising things. You will fall in love with this story, and hope there will be another installment. Fans of stories set in other countries, modern day fairy tales, or triumphing over difficulties will enjoy this five-star book.

Bethany House Publishing has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, To Win a Prince, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/AuthorToniShiloh/

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/tonishiloh/

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/tonishilohwrite

The Author’s Website:  https://tonishiloh.com/

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“Escape from Amsterdam” by Lauralee Bliss

Posted on September 20, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Evil on the Move!

Helen is a young adult attending teacher college in the late 1930’s. She lives in Amsterdam with her family and has just met Erik. Everything seems exciting, but her entire life, and those all around her, is about to be turned upside down.

The Nazis are on the march, and quickly invade her country, and start making changes. Suddenly, the little children Helen teaches, along with their families, begin to disappear. Food is becoming in short supply, and Jewish people are losing their jobs, their homes, and are restricted from shopping where they want.

Can Helen and Erik leave everything behind, and disappear from their families? Are they taking dangerous chances that will lead them all to be arrested? Will the Nazis soldier be persuaded to leave Helen alone romantically?

This is an amazing story of what Helen and Erik get caught up in. Dangers and hardships abound in this clean story. The characters lean on God when nothing looks good for them, and miracles happen.

Although this is a work of fiction, two of the people existed in real life. Amazingly, the man lived to be 107 years old, and just died in 2018. I recommend this five-star book to fans of WWII stories, thrillers, or factual fiction!

Barbour Publishing has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Escape from Amsterdam, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLauraleeBliss

The Author’s Website:  Lauraleebliss.com

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“Papa Loves You, Tiny Blue” by Jo Empson

Posted on September 18, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

I Wonder About…Everything!

This is a story dedicated to the love between a child and his Papa.  In this case, the Papa and child are penguins!

As the little one asks lots of big questions, his Papa gives him the answers through words and actions.

Beautiful pictures, done by the author, illustrate their home and the questions that are asked.  They capture the wonder and love that exists between the two, as well as, the large world the two live in.

The little one’s biggest question is wanting to know what love is.  Even though Papa is getting tired of answering so many questions, he doesn’t hesitate to explain love, and to assure the little one that his Papa will always love him.

The illustrations in this over-sized picture book are a vital part of the story, and will amaze both the reader and child alike. This five-star book is recommended for preschoolers through first grade.

Worthy Kids has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Papa Loves You, Tiny Blue, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063698611121

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063698611121

The Author’s Website:  https://www.joempson.com

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“Honor Bound” by Hallee Bridgeman

Posted on September 15, 2022 by WordPress.com Support

Life, Death, and Love?

Cynthia is a doctor working in the deepest jungle delivering babies, but she is also the daughter of the Vice President of the United States. Out of nowhere, warlords invade her village, and threaten to kill her. Suddenly an American contingent appears, and kills the bad guys. When told she must leave with the Americans, Cynthia has a fit, but reluctantly goes.

When trying to get out, they face a harrowing journey through the jungle as terrorists continue hunting them. Instead of things calming down when they get to civilization, there are even more dangers. Despite all the hazards, Cynthia finds herself becoming friends with Rick, the head of the American rescue group.

Will Cynthia find happiness after she was forced to leave the jungle? When they get back to the United States, will Cynthia and Rick ever see each other again? Can Cynthia and Rick have a future with her being part of an affluent family, and him, a soldier from a small town? Is it possible to have a relationship with Rick when Cynthia knows first-hand how dangerous his work is?

This story is full of action, danger, and thrills which will keep you turning pages to see what happens. This is a clean tale told from a Christian viewpoint. I recommend this five-star book to fans of people in harm’s way— and how, or if, they find their way out of it!

Barbour Publishers has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Honor Bound, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/authorhalleebridgeman/

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/halleebridgeman/

The Author’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/halleeb

The Author’s Website:  https://www.halleebridgeman.com/books-by-series/

 

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