"Asylum: The Circeae Tales" by Ashley H. Bazer

What do Chase, Trista, The Progressive Legacy, ghosts, Krissa, and the Legacy's Experimental Medicine Agency have to do with each other? In her new book, "Asylum," Ashley H. Bazer tells us.

Chase is a Ghost captain and as such finds himself in a dire situation. His wife, Trista, has been taken away and he is told she is dead. In reality, however, she has been sent to the Straightjacket, a ship that specializes in reprogramming those who stray from the correct path. Now Chase is sentenced to the same fate. There was no trial, just a sentence. How can this be? How can his freedom be taken away so easily? Will he find the truth about his wife and will there be a good outcome? Come join Chase, Trista, and the others on a space voyage you won't forget.

This is a very interesting novel with a sci-fi theme. Ms. Bazer weaves a tale that while it seems whimsical, is believable. I enjoyed the characters and plot, and had a hard time putting it down. Kudos to the author!I received my free review copy from the Book Sneeze program in exchange for an honest review.

"Starflower" by Elisabeth Stengl

A dragon-witch, a damsel in distress, rivalry for a maiden's love, enchanted sleep, and a young maiden who could be the answer to a problem - all parts of this wonderful story by Elisabeth Stengl. Open this book, and find the fun of fantasy and the ultimate battle of good and evil.

Eanrin lives the life of a loved poet, and is a man vying for the hand of the lovely Lady Gleamdren. But, tragedy strikes before she chooses her love and she is taken away by the evil dragon-witch who is out for revenge. What would a hero do in this case? Exactly what Eanrin does - begin a search and rescue. This could be the way to win her heart, but more than that, Lady Gleamdren needs rescuing. As he journeys, Eanrin finds Starflower in the Wood Between. Unable to leave her behind, Eanrin takes her with him and finds some surprising results to that decision. What is Starflower's purpose? Can she help free Lady Gleamdren? What will happen between Eanrin and Lady Gleamdren? 

Good fantasy writing totally draws me in and holds me throughout the story. That is what "Starflower" did for me. I really enjoyed the characters, the story line, and the settings. Ms. Stengl is a masterful writer and I can't wait to read more of her work. I highly recommend this book to readers who love fantasy. It will not disappoint you. I received my free review copy from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.

"Deadline" by Randy Alcorn

It was a horrible, tragic accident and yet Jake can't let it go. How did he survive? The mysterious circumstances encourage him to look further, so he works with Ollie Chandler to find the truth. Will Jake survive long enough?

When an accident leaves you but takes others, it can leave you depressed and feeling broken.That happened to Jake one night, but there are some odd things, some things that don't seem to fit. Was it really simply an accident, or was there more to it? Unable to answer the questions alone, Jake Woods gets help from Ollie Chandler. After all, Jake is a journalist and Ollie is the detective. Together they set out to find the answers Jake so desperately searches for. Is someone hunting Jake now? Is his life on the line? This mystery is filled with twists and turns sure to keep readers turning the pages all the way to the end!

Wow! I love a book that involves me in the story, that encourages me to solve the mystery. This one did that. I was completely drawn in and couldn't wait to find the answers to my questions. I recommend this book to lovers of mystery and suspense. It will not disappoint you. If you have any difficulty getting into the story, give it a few pages. It is totally worth it! I received my free review copy from the Blogging for Books program in exchange for an honest review.

"Betrayal" by Robin Lee Hatcher

Hugh Brennan and Julia Grace have something in common. Both have known betrayal and are very well aware of the costs it inflicted. Now, unable to truly trust another person, each is drawn to the other. Is there a higher purpose here?

Julia loves her ranch in Wyoming, but her heart is filled with sorrow because her husband is dead and his half brother is trying to take the ranch away from her. How could he betray her this way? Didn't he know it was hers? She would have to fight, but doing that alone was difficult at the beginning of the twentieth century. Along comes Hugh, a man looking for work. As they work together on the ranch, they are drawn to each other. But, can they trust enough to believe in each other? Will Hugh be able to help Julia keep the ranch? This wonderful love story will delight and engage readers from start to finish.

This is a fun read, a light romance with a wonderful story line. Ms. Hatcher knows how to develop her characters and set her scenes and plot in ways that draw readers into the story. I recommend it to any reader who loves a good love story or is just looking for a "feel good" book. This is sure to fit both bills. I received my free review copy from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.

"Finding God in the Hobbit" by Jim Ware

"A tender heart is a marvelously impractical thing." pg. 55

Have you read and enjoyed "The Hobbit"? Did you wonder at the spiritual themes presented? In this book, Jim Ware explores the spiritual side to "The Hobbit" and how it can apply to your life.

"The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkein is the beloved tale of Bilbo Baggins and his steps of faith in his adventure. Tolkein was a Christian who could spin a wonderful tale and interweave spiritual principles. As Jim Ware writes the chapters in this book, the reader can quickly see that Mr. Ware not only knows Tolkein, but he knows how to pull out the spiritual lessons in the writings. Chapter titles include: "Doom of the Dunderheads," "Cream and Honey," and "Reluctant Leader;" and each begins with a short passage from Tolkein's work and ends with a reflection.  This hardcover reprinting (just in time for the movie!) will make a wonderful gift for just about anyone.

I am a Tolkein lover and enjoy picking up books that delve into his work. I found this book to be insightful and one that made me want to pick up "The Hobbit" again so I can see exactly the way things dovetail throughout the book. Not only will this make a wonderful gift, but book discussion groups may enjoy discussing the thoughts inside over time. I received my review copy from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

"Isle of Shadows" by Tracy Higley

The year is 227 B.C. and the place if the Island of Rhodes. Tessa of Delos is a courtesan to her Greek owner, feeling that she will never be free or able to find true love. Unexpectedly, an opportunity at freedom comes along when her owner dies. In trying to hide that fact long enough to escape, Tessa prays to the Greek god Helios. She begs for his help in leaving. But, she also meets two men who will change her life. Simon is an elderly man who teaches her about God, and Nikos is a man who works at teaching her about love. Can Tessa learn to let go of her long held traditions and trust the one true God? Will she be able to escape the island, or will an assassination plot change her plans and let the world know that her owner is dead? Action and suspense await you within the pages of this book!

I love this time period, so this book was right up my alley. Ms. Higley writes with a style that invites the reader in, making her characters, plot, and places come alive. If you like historical fiction with suspense and the hint of love, you will love this book. I think reading groups would have fun discussing the many topics that arise. I received my free review copy from the Book Sneeze program in exchange for an honest review.

"Bold as Love" by Bob Roberts, Jr.

Loving others is a command from God, yet many people find it hard to love those who don't agree with them. Those disagreements can be about anything, but are especially difficult when it comes to a belief system. In this new book, Pastor Bob Roberts takes the time to reach out to each of us and encourage us to reach out to others around us, all of our neighbors. 

We truly do live in a global society. Travel is so easy and people move for a myriad of reasons. With people come different religious systems and beliefs, most strongly held and adhered to. It can be difficult to stay engaged with others when there is so much "PC" and worry about saying the wrong thing. But, we can still be bold in our conversations and loving in our choice of words. Faith is meant to be shared. It isn't something to hide away in storage until we are ready to move. It is a living, breathing thing that needs to be freely given. Only when we share our faith with others do we see the changes that happen to us and to those around us. 

This is a book that will challenge you to get up and take risks. I think my favorite chapter is Chapter 6, "Living Our Faith with All Our Faiths Present." We all need strength and courage, and this book will indeed provide ways to get them. This book is for all Christians. If you long to have a deeper relationship with others, be as "Bold as Love."

"No Safe Harbor" by Elizabeth Ludwig

Harbors are supposed to be places of rest and safety. But in this story, Cara Hamilton can't seem to find one. She has grown up in Ireland but determines to leave when she discovers that the brother she thought was dead is really alive. He is living in America. Thus begins Cara's journey to find him; a journey that will take her to America and days filled with danger, deceit, and the unknown.

Cara thought Eoghan was dead, but then a letter came from America and Cara knew she needed to find him. How could he have kept this information from her? How could he have left her? Cara is determined to find him and the answers before he disappears again. She shouldn't really trust anyone, but then she meets Rourke and that flies out the window. Her days soon become filled with unanswered questions, tension, and secrecy. Danger is everywhere. Will Cara find her brother before something bad happens? Why did he run in the first place?  Is Rourke the man he seems to be? Step back in history and join Cara on her quest.

Ms. Ludwig had me from the beginning of this story. History fascinates me, and 1897 is the year she chose. Her depiction of the lives of her characters and their stories, drew me in and made me want to know more. I wanted to see the good, but found some unsavory things as well. That made it interesting! I recommend this book to readers who love suspense and intrigue. You won't be sorry you picked up this book! I received my free review copy from Litfuse Publishing in exchange for participation in the blog tour.

To CELEBRATE the release of her newest novel, No Safe Harbor, Elizabeth Ludwig is giving away a Kindle Fire! Then on 12/6 she'll be hosting a fun Facebook Party where she will be chatting with readers and giving away fun prizes! Click for details and don't miss the fun.http://ow.ly/f8phi 

About No Safe Harbor:    She came to America searching for her brother. Instead all she's found is a web of danger. Cara Hamilton had thought her brother to be dead. Now, clutching his letter, she leaves Ireland for America, desperate to find him. Her search leads her to a houseful of curious strangers, and one man who claims to be a friend-Rourke Walsh. Despite her brother's warning, Cara trusts Rourke, revealing her purpose in coming to New York. She's then thrust into a world of subterfuge, veiled threats, and attempted murder, including political revolutionaries from the homeland out for revenge. Her questions guide her ever nearer to locating her brother-but they also bring her closer to destruction as those who want to kill him track her footsteps. With her faith in tatters, all hope flees. Will her brother finally surface? Can he save Cara from the truth about Rourke... a man she's grown to love?    Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/f8pXm     Meet Elizabeth:      Elizabeth Ludwig is an award-winning author and an accomplished speaker and teacher. Her historical novelLove Finds You in Calico, California earned four stars from Romantic Times. She is the owner and editor of the popular literary blog The Borrowed Book. Along with her husband and two children, Elizabeth makes her home in Orange, Texas. Learn more at www.elizabethludwig.com.

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"Fire Prophet" by Jerel Law

Book 2 in the Son of Angels series, brings us back together with the Stone family. Their angel heritage has them as prime targets for the devil and his horde, and they must learn to master more of the gifts they possess.

After another attack at school, the Stone family is on the run with the help of angels. All of the nephilim are being gathered in New York City to find protection and strength, but they will not be with their children. After the groups separate to keep the demons from cornering them, the quarterlings discover that they will be in school of two types, regular and angel. They also discover new gifts, and the awesome power of prayer. Will the demons get to them? Will those without Christ accept Him? What are the new gifts that are manifested? Come, rejoin this group and meet new people like Prophet Abigail, Kareem, and the nuns of the Convent, and discover more of the story.

I really enjoyed this second book, and can't wait for more in the series. It is targeted at the YA group, but adults will enjoy it as well. There are Biblical references to characters like the Pharoah of Egypt and Sisera, and an emphasis on salvation and the power of prayer. I was especially impressed with the imagery Mr. Law used to describe the characters united in prayer. I recommend this book to readers of all ages. It is hard to put down! I received my free review copy from the Book Sneeze program in exchange for an honest review.

"Yours is the Day, Lord, Yours is the Night" by Jeanie Gushee and David Gushee PhD

"Yours is the Day, Lord, Yours is the Night" is a book that will not replace personal prayer time, but will enhance it. The sample prayers for morning and evening for every day of the year will encourage the reader to spend more time being thoughtful and purposeful in prayer time. 

Prayer is communication with God, and we should always be in a constant prayerful mood. The prayers selected represent the liturgical calendar and the seasons, making them so appropriate for each day. This book will help bolster your prayer life, adding strength to each moment of the day.

There are so many beautiful prayers in this book. It is a book I will keep nearby all the time because we all need extra strength and encouragement in our lives. I think my favorite prayer is listed on the evening of June 22nd. I encourage you to pick up the book and read it. This is a good book for anyone who wants a stronger prayer life. I received my free review copy from the Book Sneeze program in exchange for an honest review.

"A Wreath of Snow" by Liz Curtis Higgs

The holiday season is normally filled with happiness and joy, but for two people, trouble fills their hearts. Can this Christmas season bring them any peace?

Margaret Campbell is a schoolteacher who came home for Christmas. But this Christmas had been horrible and she just wanted to get home. But the weather was not cooperating, and snow was affecting her train. While on the train, Margaret reconnects with someone from her past - Gordon Shaw. An accident that involved her brother brings painful memories to both Gordon and Margaret. When the train becomes stuck in the snow, will they find time to talk? Will they be able to move past the past and find a future? Liz Curtis Higgs weaves a wonderful story of forgiveness and love in her latest creation.

I love a good Christmas story and this did not disappoint me. Margaret and Gordon were great characters and the story captivated me. If you enjoy books that pull you into the lives of their characters, this book is for you. I recommend it to everyone who loves a good Christmas story. I received my free review copy from the Blogging for Books program in exchange for an honest review.

"Resurrect" by David Stevens

Josh Logan is a Navy Commander and he flies planes. One day, there is a major problem and Josh maneuvers the plane so that it won't crash into any homes. Can he get out in time, or will he even survive?

Josh has been in a coma for about a year when he finally wakes up. The accident didn't take his life, but destroyed his body. While he was "sleeping," he could hear someone telling him that he must save the world. Now that he is awake, Josh finds that he can have a brand new life with a body that works, on one condition. He must leave behind everyone he knows. Is it worth it to him? Can he build a machine to save the world? What is the threat? Come along and find out while meeting other characters like Elizabeth, Dr. Lopez, and Sir Edward Brandon.

This is a thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, and is book one in a new trilogy. I love books where authors add their own personal expertise to the mix to make the story more plausible. David Stevens does that. I recommend this book to any fans of Tom Clancy, Dan Brown, and other writers of military thrillers. You won't be disappointed! I received my free review copy from Litfuse Publishing in exchange for participation in the blog tour.

 

To CELEBRATE the release of his latest apocalyptic thriller, Resurrect, David Stevens is giving away a Kindle HD! Then on 12/4 he'll be hosting a fun Facebook Party where he will be chatting with readers and giving away fun prizes! Click for details and don't miss the fun.  http://ow.ly/fabop

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/faaOD    Meet David:      A Navy fighter pilot with hundreds of aircraft carrier landings, Commander David E Stevens holds degrees from Cornell and the University of Michigan with graduate work in astrophysics. He test piloted new fighters and received an aviation patent. With a Top Secret clearance, Dave served as Strike Operations Officer for the Persian Gulf during Desert Storm and led classified defense programs. He's traveled to over two dozen countries. Find out more about David E. athttp://www.resurrecttrilogy.com/.   ***To save the photos above to use on your blog, please right click on the photo and "save as."

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"Sedition" by Tom Abraham

What would happen if the President of the United States were dead and there was no Vice President to take his place? As those in the line of succession fight over the job, will there be mob rule, or will someone step up to fill the void? This is the premise of Tom Abraham's book, "Sedition," and it is a roller coaster ride filled with enough action and adventure to keep readers interested. 

The courts are going to decide who will take the job of the Presidency, but that isn't good enough for the Datura Group. They have been working to destroy the United States government for a long time and these events push them into action. Will they succeed, or will there be others to fight against them? This political thriller will have you on the edge of your seat as you discover the answer.

This book totally captivated me. The pace is fast, the situation way too plausible, the characters realistic, and the writing well-done. If you like political thrillers, this book is for you!

"Darkness Rising" by Lis Wiehl, Pete Nelson

"Darkness Rising" is book two in Lis Wiehl's trilogy about East Salem. The story continues where "Waking Hours" left off, with twists and turns, and the battle between good and evil. Who will win?

Dani Harris and Tommy Henderson continue to investigate the murder of Julie Leonard, who died after a party at St. Adrian's Academy. Now Amos Karden, her accused murderer, and Abbie Gardener, a 102 woman, are also both dead. Are these deaths connected? Something is going on at St. Adrian's Academy, but what? For Dani and Tommy, the cases aren't closed even though the police think they are. What keeps them interested? What questions lie unanswered? As Dani and Tommy build a relationship outside of the investigation, attacks of jealousy and deceit threaten to derail them. Will their relationship survive? 

Once again, Lis Wiehl delivers a story that drew me in and wouldn't let me go. I can't wait for book three! I recommend all of Ms. Wiehl's books to those who love a good story filled with mystery and suspense. You will enjoy her "Triple Threat Club" series!

"Breath of Dawn" by Kristin Heitzmann

Ms. Heitzmann has brought back members of the Spencer family in the third installment of her, "Rush of Wings" series. This romantic thriller also introduces us to Quinn Reilly and her relationship to Morgan and Livie.

Morgan Spencer is grieving. He wants to make things good for his daughter, Livie, but he misses his wife so much. He is called a "fixer," so why can't he fix himself? When he buys a house without even looking at it, he meets Quinn Reilly. There is electricity from the beginning, but Morgan wants to keep his distance. 

Quinn is a woman who testified in a trial that put a man in jail. She did the right thing, but now he is getting out of jail and is threatening her. She has to keep herself and everyone around her safe. But she and Morgan are getting close. Can she leave him and Livie? Can she tell Morgan what is going on? 

What a ride! Kristin Heitzmann has a fabulous way of grabbing my attention and holding it throughout her stories. The characters are realistic and the story well written. I recommend all of her books to readers who love to be pulled into a book and held there by the magic of the words. I received my free review copy from the Litfuse Group for participation in the blog tour. It has been a pleasure!

Win a Kindle Paperwhite and connect with Kristen at her 11/27 Facebook Party!

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About The Breath of Dawn:     "Heitzmann weaves a many-layered tale keep[ing] readers entertained and wondering when the next bit of drama will occur." -Publishers Weekly Corporate turnaround specialist Morgan Spencer, dubbed the "success guru," has a Midas touch in business. But losing his wife sent him to the brink, and his two-year-old daughter, Livie, is all he's living for-until they encounter a woman whose trouble just might draw him out of his own. Four years ago Quinn Reilly did the right thing. Now the man her testimony put in jail is getting out. Though she has put up barriers to protect herself and those around her, she has come to care for the Spencer family, especially the winsome Livie and her mercurial father. Unwilling to put them at risk when the threats begin, she requests something she hopes the super-successful Morgan might be able to deliver. Fixing problems is what Morgan does best, but his counterproposal takes them in a direction neither is equipped to handle. Determined to confront the past, will they survive to build a future?   Link to buy the book: http://amzn.to/VkkqTX ; Meet Kristen:     Kristen Heitzmann is the bestselling author of over a dozen novels, including "Freefall", "Halos", "A Rush of Wings", and the Christy Award winner "Secrets". She and her husband, Jim, and their family live in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she serves as worship leader in their church.  Find out more about Kristen at http://www.kristenheitzmannbooks.com/.

"The Time Keeper" by Mitch Albom

Time. We all use and abuse it, and it is the topic of conversation everywhere. In his new book, Mitch Albom follows three distinct people in their search for more time.

Dor is a man with principles. When he refuses to work on the tower to the heavens, he and his wife leave their family to keep them safe. But as his wife lays dying, Dor runs for the tower. What happens next determines the  beginnings of "Father Time." Victor Delamonte has vast wealth, but finds it can neither buy happiness or health. He makes some choices about his remaining time without telling his wife. He wants more time. Sarah Lemon is a teenager who doesn't fit in. She wants time to speed up, but her choices lead her to greater difficulties. What would happen if these three met? Mitch Albom explores that question and what the results would be, encouraging the reader to be careful what they wish for.

This is a powerful book about time and how we use it. I enjoyed the characters, and while I didn't like the stories being interrupted by each other, it all made sense in the end. Time - we need to spend more of it loving others and enjoying what God has given us.

"Simply Jesus" by Joseph Stowell

Jesus. His presence can calm your soul and lift you from the pits of despair. But how close do we really get to Him? How much time do we really spend getting to know him? In his new book, Joseph Stowell helps us look at those questions to bring our focus back to Christ. 

"Simply Jesus." It sounds so uncomplicated, yet so many make so other things priority over Him. It isn't about us. It is about Him and getting to know Him. No one can fulfill their purpose in life without understanding the love and care poured out to us moment by moment. This book helps readers focus time on getting to know Jesus, removing the many obstacles that can cloud our view. Jesus, simply drawing closer to Him by spending time with Him.

This book can be powerful in our lives if we apply the principles and really fall in love with Jesus. This is a book I will read again and again because I don't want to wander far from His side. The book reminds me of the song, "There's Something About That Name." I challenge you to listen to the words. I received my free review copy from the Blogging for Books program in exchange for an honest review.

"Men of Sunday" by Curtis Eichelberger

Football. A rough game played between players determined to have their team win. But what are the players, coaches, and owners like off the field? How do they balance work and family? Curtis Eichelberger opens that part of their world in his new book, "Men of Sunday."

The grueling game of football can take its toll on anyone. It takes strength from outside to help fight the temptations that are placed in the path of those involved in the game, strength to have a good life off the field. Many players are successful at this despite the media hype, and in this book we get to meet a few of them. We get to peek into their world to see how they balance their work and their lives; how their families cope. Many of the men and women involved in football have strong faith in God and rely on Him to guide their lives. Tony Dungy, Ladanian Tomlinson, Mike Singletary, Trent Dilfer, and Aaron Rogers are just five of those featured in this book showing character and strength during times of temptation and fame. 

I love football and was excited to receive my free review copy from the Book Sneeze. In this day and age, it seems that the only things we hear about are the bad things. This book will encourage you and lift you up. It will bring to light some of those who stand strong against adversity through their faith. If you love football, you will love this book. I recommend it to book groups as well. There is so much to discuss!

"Soul's Gate" by James Rubart

This is Book 1 in James Rubart's new "Well Spring" series, and it poses an interesting question. What if it were possible to help someone battle evil by entering their soul? Could both people work together to save one soul at a time? Each soul is precious and there is a battle. What if??

Reece Roth has been called by God to do something he didn't think he would ever do - train people to enter other's souls to help them fight off evil. Thirty years ago, Reece had done exactly that, but when his life was tragically changed, so was Reece. God wanted him to teach four special people to do His will, to help others, and so Reece did. The ranch in Colorado seemed the perfect place to train them, but Reece was still haunted by his past. Could he break free of his feelings and be of help? Could these four be trained to not only ask permission of the person they wanted to help, but also enter their soul? Through twists and turns and edge of your seat thrills, James Rubart answers those questions as the story unfolds.

What a ride! This book's premise is quite a stretch for me which is why I wanted to read it. I don't think anyone can enter another's soul, but I do think we can help each other battle evil. This is an interesting story with wonderful characters. I especially liked that Reece was so human. He had feelings to fight. I totally recommend this book to readers of all types. It might also make an interesting book for discussion groups. It will certainly raise the question of what God wants each of us to do. I received my free review copy from Litfuse Publishing in exchange for participation in the blog tour. 

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About Soul's Gate:  Book 1 in the Well Spring series. "Every now and then we get a break from reality. A glimpse into the other world that is more real than the reality we live in 99 percent of our days. The Bible is about a world of demons and angels and great evil and even greater glory." What if you could travel inside another person's soul? To battle for them. To be part of Jesus healing their deepest wounds. To help set them free to step boldly into their divinely designed future. Thirty years ago that's exactly what Reece Roth did. Until tragedy shattered his life and ripped away his future. Now God has drawn Reece out of the shadows to fulfill a prophecy spoken over him three decades ago. A prophecy about four warriors with the potential to change the world . . . if Reece will face his deepest regret and teach them what he has learned. They gather at a secluded and mysterious ranch deep in the mountains of Colorado, where they will learn to see the spiritual world around them with stunning clarity-and how to step into the supernatural. Their training is only the beginning. The four have a destiny to pursue a freedom even Reece doesn't fully fathom. But they have an enemy hell-bent on destroying them and he'll stop at nothing to keep them from their quest for true freedom and the coming battle of souls. Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/eGyGA Meet Jim:James L. Rubart is a professional marketer, speaker, and writer. While being the owner of Barefoot Marketing certainly keeps him on his toes, his passion is writing fiction. Rubart is an ECPA best-selling author who has been positively reviewed by both Publisher's Weekly and Romantic Times. His first novel,Rooms, won a Best Books 2011 award from USA Book News, as well as a Romantic Times Book Reviews Reviewers Choice Award. His debut release was followed by Book of Days and The Chair. Soul's Gate is Rubart's fourth release. In addition to being an author, Rubart is also a photographer, guitarist, professional speaker, golfer and semi-pro magician. With all of this, he says that he barely sleeps. Rubart lives with his wife and sons in the Pacific Northwest. Find out more about Jim at http://jimrubart.com/. ;  ***To save the photos above to use on your blog, please right click on the photo and "save as".

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"Tangled Ashes" by Michele Phoenix

Lamorlaye, France and a castle combine to test the skills of architect Marshall Becker. He doesn't want to go, but is forced to by those who care. Once in France, he finds that not only are the people interesting, but the story of the castle (Meunier mansion) is as well. Can Marshall muster the desire necessary to complete the project, or will someone get in the way?

Marshall needs a break from his normal work, so he is sent to France to complete a massive renovation. Little did he know in the beginning that there is no where enough time to complete it, nor did he understand the type of people involved. The new owner wants things ready for his wife's birthday, which seems impossible, but Marshall is willing to do what he can. Then he meets the owner's children and their nanny, and even a "squatter." Each person he meets has a story and a secret, but will Marshall take the time to unravel them all? The castle also has a story, one that just fifty years before was one of Nazi occupation and "master race" design. It is a story that is almost forgotten. What will Marshall learn? Is there any danger involved in the investigations he launches? Can Marshall find the calm he needs to rid himself of the secrets that haunt him? Throughout the story, the pieces of the puzzle fit together for an ending that you might not see coming.

I love stories that make me think and follow the author as they tell a story. This one is crafted with the keeping the reader reading and guessing, and definitely lives up to its title. Ms. Phoenix uses two distinct time frames to tell her story, leaving readers satisfied that she completes it. I found the story well written and fun to try to figure out, and the characters realistic and interesting. This is the first book I have read by Ms. Phoenix, but I definitely want to read more! I received my free review copy from Handlebar Publishing for an honest review.As

"The Secret Keeper" by Kate Morton

What is the cost of keeping a secret? How much does it affect your life? Laurel Nicholson is sixteen years old and enjoying life, when she sees her mother surprised by a visitor. Laurel is the witness to something so shocking that she buries it for fifty years. But....

This is the story of three young people who meet before WWII and find themselves totally connected forever. Their lives may have seemed separate later in life, but one of them has to tell the story. That one is Laurel's mother Dorothy. Laurel had put that awful day behind her and had become an actress. But her mother was turning ninety, so she went home for a visit and found it was time to ask the questions she had buried for so long. As Dorothy tells her story, she introduces Vivien and Jimmy. The reader is treated to new facts through the use of flashbacks, and is transported through time from before WWII through the 60's and to the present. Will Dorothy tell the whole story? Will Laurel accept or reject what her mother has to say? The story will keep readers enthralled as they travel through time unraveling mysteries and deceptions, finding friendship and passion.

I love Kate Morton's writing and have since she wrote "The House At Riverton" in 2006. Her stories and characters pull me in quickly and I am transported through time with their memories. Readers of all types will enjoy Ms. Morton's books, and I for one can't wait for the next one. There are many lively topics that reading groups will enjoy discussing. I received my free review copy from Atria Books through Net Galley.

"Borders of the Heart" by Chris Fabry

Borders are everywhere, some made by society, some by ourselves. What happens when the borders someone has placed around his heart are challenged? What about the borders between countries? A great story happens!

J.D. Jessup is running. He wants to distance himself from his past, and that distancing takes him to Arizona. He is hired to work on an organic farm, and the owner lets him know that this is an area for illegals to cross into America. He is told to call the police if he sees anyone. It makes sense to J.D. until finds Maria near death. He can't turn her in. He needs to help her. Little does he know that that is an extremely dangerous choice for both himself and for Maria because Maria is also running. The difference here is that the man Maria is running from is out to kill them. As the two of them run, J.D. finds strength that can only come from trusting God.  Do they escape, or do both J.D. and Maria have to face their pasts? What about the man chasing them? Pick up the book and ride along to find out!

What an interesting story! I loved the characters and felt for them. I was on the run with them. It made me think about what I would do if I were in J.D.'s place and how things would end up. Chris Fabry has a style that will draw you into the story and characters, and not let you go until the end. I recommend it to lovers of suspense and trust. Book groups will have a great time discussing the topics presented. I received my review copy from Tyndale House Publishers for participation in the blog tour.

 

http://mediacenter.tyndale.com/1_products/details.asp?isbn=978-1-4143-4862-9.