Ambushed in Yosemite by Kellie VanHorn – Suspense, Mystery, Intrigue, and a Little Romance

 

After reading the description of Kellie VanHorn’s new novel, Ambushed in Yosemite, I wanted to read it. 

 

Skylar (Sky) Jansen invested nearly four years of her life with Chris and thought they would soon marry.  She was hoping for a proposal, but instead Chris announced that he wanted to end their relationship.  On the heels of their break-up Skylar wanted to get out of New York City, reset and figure out what she wanted to do with her life.

 

For the time being, Sky decided to work as a seasonal interpretive ranger in Yosemite over the summer, something her father had done during her childhood.  Eighteen years ago, her dad Andy Jansen disappeared and was never seen or heard from again.  It devastated his family, but in Yosemite Skylar had good memories of her father.  Perhaps, it was a good place to start over. 

 

Before starting her morning shift, Sky decided to take a walk on a trail, the last place her father was seen.  As she got further off the beaten path, she saw something strange.  A man in dark clothing with a shovel.  As a park ranger, she decided to let the man know that people are not allowed to dig in the national park.  But there was something about his response that seemed really off.  Sky decided it was time get out of there.  Right now, leave, go, run!  Sky hightailed it out of there with the man is in pursuit.  As she finally got to safety she slammed right into a climber.  Not just any climber, but Special Agent Bode Tucker, the right man, at the right place, at the right time. 

 

Ambushed in Yosemite by Kellie VanHorn is filled with suspense, mystery, and intrigue starting on page one.  The characters are very likeable, decent, kind, and caring.  The kind of people who will do what it takes protect the innocent, get answers, and seek justice.  The setting in Yosemite is beautiful.

 

What I especially appreciated about the story and characters is their faith.  In their daily life and when their lives are in peril, they turn to God in faith, pray, and trust God.  Knowing that their salvation is secure no matter how the circumstances turn out.  I enjoyed the growing relationship between Sky and Bode, and his little girl Harper and his family.  I appreciated that the story was clean. 

 

If you like mystery, intrigue, suspense with a little romance, read Ambushed in Yosemite by Kellie VanHorn. 

 

I would like to thank the publisher Harlequin – Romance and NetGalley for an opportunity to read Ambushed in Yosemite by Kellie VanHorn.  I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

 

The Lost Story of Via Belle by Melanie Dobson – Mixed Emotions – Interesting but Challenging

After reading the synopsis of The Lost Story of Via Belle by Melanie Dobson I wanted to read her newest book. 

The Lost Story of Via Belle has two timelines, 1940’s and 2006, and three heroines.  Olivia is a writer in the 1940’s.  Her pen name is Via Belle, and she is much beloved by her readers.  Izzy is a young college student at a university where Olivia was invited to speak about her writing.  Fast forward to 2006 and meet Harper who currently working as a housekeeper for a Hollywood producer.  Harper has ambitions to be a screenwriter and is hoping to get a break, if only someone will give her a chance.  But when her plan falls apart, she packs up and goes to Pennsylvania to stay at her aunt’s home.  Harper is hoping to find the right story that she can pore herself into and prove herself as a successful screenwriter.

The lives of these three women will intersect.  The lives of both Olivia, an older, wise and mature woman, and Izzy, a young and naïve woman, are impacted by Simon Farrow.  A man who may not be who he represents himself to be.  As Simon’s life starts to unravel and he loses control, their lives will be upended.  Sixty years later Harper starts digging into the mystery of what happened to Via Belle, hoping to find a story.  What she finds may be a whole lot closer to home than she could ever imagine.

When I wasn’t reading, I found myself thinking about the characters and wondering how the story would turn out.  The dual timeline in this book took a little time to get used to.  My affinity for the various characters changed as the story progressed.  The character I struggled with the most was Harper, perhaps because of her immaturity and self-focus.  I was very surprised by the changes in Simon.  I struggled to understand why Oliva and Izzy were so slow to wake up to the truth that was staring them in the face. 

The story was interesting and there were some twists and turns I didn’t expect.  The book seemed to drag at the beginning and the end.  But in between I was drawn in by the story.

While there were aspects of faith in the story, it was not deep.  I found that surprising since Olivia had been married to a pastor.  At one point in the story, Oliva, “wanted to hear God’s whisper in the breeze.  Words that spoke to her heart.  Why had He stopped speaking to her?”  Reading that concerned me because doctrinally that is not sound theology.  Today, God has spoken to us through in the Bible, the word of God.  If Oliva wanted to hear God speak, she should have opened the Bible and read it out loud. 

There were aspects of the book that I liked and characters were interesting.  Yet, I didn’t fully understand the characters Olivia and Izzy and even Harper.  I would have liked to have seen the Christian faith better developed in the characters and storyline.

If you like mystery, intrigue, historical fiction, or are a fan of Melanie Dobson’s books, you may want to read The Lost Story of Via Belle.  This book will be published on April 14, 2026.

I would like to thank Tyndale Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of The Lost Story of Via Belle by Melanie Dobson.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.

 

Edge of Truth – by Janice Cantore – Mystery, Intrigue, Suspense

 
If you enjoy mystery and intrigue, you may want to read Janice Cantore’s newest book Edge of Truth. 

 

Lainie Jensen works for the Long Beach Police Department.  She’s a hardworking detective and committed to her work.  In recent years, Lainie has pull back in her relationship with her sister Evie, mostly because of Evie’s husband Stan.  But when news comes from Hawaii that she sister may have been kill in a shark attack, Lainie is going to investigate for herself.  Something is off and Stan’s story doesn’t make sense.  FBI Agent Ben Isaacs is also investigating Stan about his involvement in a money laundering operation.  Lainie and Ben’s investigations will overlap.  Will they be able to combine forces and get to the truth?  Will justice be delivered?

When Lainie started with the police force fifteen years earlier she had a difficult case in which the person escaped justice.  While she had to move forward, that case left a scar and it took a toll on her faith.  With her sister still missing, Lainie realizes that she needs to return to God.  Ben Isaacs is in the right place at the right time.  Not only to help with their interconnected investigations, but also to encourage Lainie’s faith in this time of trouble.  Will Lainie take a closer look at Ben, a man who is determined, committed, kind and caring.

 

Edge of Truth by Janice Cantore is filled with suspense, mystery, and intrigue and I especially enjoyed the setting in Long Beach.  I liked the growing relationship between Lainie and Ben and the professional relationships Lainie had with colleagues she had over the course of her career.  Also, Lainie’s love and care for her family.  Appreciated that this novel did not have profanity. 

 

Writer Janice Cantore is a former police officer from the Long Beach Police Department.  So, she brings realism to the story from a police perspective.  Edge of Truth will be released on February 17, 2026, and will be available online and at various retailers.  You can learn more about Janice and her books on her website: janicecantore.com. 

 

I would like to thank Tyndale House Publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complementary copy of Edge of Truth by Janice Cantore.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

Canyon of Deceit by DiAnn Mills – Interesting Read Filled with Mystery, Intrigue, Suspense

 
Canyon of Deceit by DiAnn Mills is the first book I’ve read by this author and I didn’t know what to expect.  The description drew me in and the mystery, intrigue, and adventure kept me engaged.

 

Therese Palmer received a call from Professor Rurik Ivanov desperately seeking her help to find his daughter Alina who had been kidnapped.  With the few details he gave her, she knew she needed help.  Therese was certain that Rurik wasn’t forthcoming with the facts, and she reached out Texas Ranger Blane Gardner for help.  Between her wilderness survival skills and Blane’s hostage negotiating experience, perhaps they could do the impossible.  Could they safely rescue Alina from kidnappers who were hiding the Guadalupe Mountains National Park?  They were about to find out.

 

Canyon of Deceit was action packed and filled with mystery and intrigue, from beginning to end.  There was no shortage of action or bad guys from the Russian organized crime, to the drug traffickers, to the Russian government looking for one of their own who was seeking asylum in the United States.  The storyline was rather convoluted and instead of trying to figure it out, I went along and let the story unfold. 

 

Therese, Blane, Alina, were very likable characters.  My favorite was Blane’s boss Major Sergio Montoya and I would like to see a book with Sergio as the main character.  I enjoyed how the story was written in the characters’ own voices.  Rurik Ivanov was interesting, but I wasn’t sure if he had good intentions or why he continued to withhold information that would help get his daughter back safely.  I found the wilderness hiking and survival section very interesting.  The author does a good job describing the scenes. 

 

I appreciated that the Christian faith was a part of the storyline and the characters’ lives.  The story involved kidnapping, murder, espionage, defection, drug trafficking and more.  The violence mentioned in the book but it does not go in to graphic detail, but beware if that’s something you don’t want to read about.

 

Canyon of Deceit by DiAnn Mills was an interesting read and the storyline was engaging.  I would like to read more novels by this author.

 

I would like to thank Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of Canyon of Deceit by DiAnn Mills.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.

 

Perilous Tides by Elizabeth Goddard – Mystery and Intrigue

Perilous Tides by Elizabeth Goddard is the second book in her Hidden Bay series.  This book tells the story of Jo Cattrel, who readers met in the first book, Storm Warning. 

 

Jo Cattrel works with her friend Remi Grant at the Cedar Trails Lodge in Hidden Bay along the Washington coastline.  Something both ladies had in common is that they were in hiding because of danger in their past.  Danger that threatened their present and future.  In Perilous Tides we learn about Jo’s past and why she’s been in hiding for three years. 

 

Three years ago, Jo’s mother was murdered and Jo went into hiding.  She continues look for answers and for justice.  The story gets off to a gripping start when Jo is trying to find her father who left a cryptic note and disappeared.  When her search fails, Jo gets on the ferry to go across Puget Sound and head home.  But the crossing may turn deadly when Jo witnesses something she shouldn’t have.  It’s a good thing that her ex-boyfriend, Cole Mercer, was back in town.  Will Cole be able to help Jo get the answers she’s looking for?  Will he be able to help keep her alive in the face of an unrelenting enemy?  Can their relationship be restored? 

 

Perilous Tides has a lot of mystery and suspense.  I was about seventy percent into the story when the various clues and puzzle pieces started to come together.  The premise was interesting.  I liked the Pacific Northwest setting and enjoyed the friendship between Jo and Remi, and Cole’s relationship with his brother Hawk.  I liked Jo’s commitment to find out who killed her mom and her quest for justice.  One of the characters that I grew to like was Detective Sanders.  I hope he appears in the third book in the Hidden Bay series and his character is further developed. 

 

There were a few things I struggled with.  The biggest one was Jo Cattrel.  Her character came across as very self-absorbed and indulging in self-pity throughout most of the book.  It got old.  The non-stop suspense and unrelenting enemy attacks were almost too much.  It stretched the imagination. 

 

Faith was a very small part of the story.  Especially considering the various crises that Jo and the others were going through, it would have been a good opportunity to include elements of faith.  In conversations and prayer or thoughts. 

 

If you are an Elizabeth Goddard fan and enjoy mystery and intrigue with some romance, you may enjoy reading Perilous Tides by Elizabeth Goddard.  This is the second book in the Hidden Bay series, but it works as a stand alone novel too.

 

I would like to thank Revell Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of Perilous Tides by Elizabeth Goddard.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.  

The Codebreaker’s Daughter by Amy Lynn Green – Mystery, Intrigue, and Relationships

 
The Codebreaker’s Daughter is the first book I’ve read by author Amy Lynn Green.  I wanted to read it because I enjoy World War II historical novels, along with mystery and intrigue. 

 

The Codebreaker’s Daughter tells the story of Lillian Kendall and her daughter Dinah Kendall, and takes place in 1917 during the Great War and 1944 during World War II.  It’s a story about mothers and daughters and how they impact and influence each other’s lives.  It’s about trying to overcome difficult circumstances and live a good, decent, and meaningful live.  It’s about two ordinary women, living in extraordinary and critical times for our Country and the world.  It’s about doing important work and striving to do it well.  It’s about marriage and caring for and being there for your spouse and family.  It’s about lifelong friendships that endure over many seasons.  It’s about making choices and experiencing the consequences, both good and bad.

 

The book was different than I expected.  Yes, it takes place in WWI and WWII and involves codebreaking, espionage, and helping with the war effort.  But underlying it all are the relationships and lives of the characters as the grow and change over the years.

 

My favorite character was Roger Kendall, the husband of Lillian.  He was the steady and loving husband and father that undergirded and supported his wife and daughter.  I enjoyed the friendships Lillian had with Elizebeth and Margot. 

 

The Codebreaker’s Daughter is a slow-paced novel.  While it does have mystery and intrigue, the main-focus is the characters and their stories.  About twenty percent into the storyline my interest picked up more as the story focused on the work the women were doing to help in the war effort. 

 

While the story unraveled slowly, there were some real gems in the book.  Thoughts and insights from the characters that were thought-provoking and meaningful. 

 

If you like World Word II historical fiction, mystery, intrigue, relationships, and stories that focus on the characters behind the historical backdrop, you may want to read Amy Lynn Green’s newest novel The Codebreaker’s Daughter.  I look forward to reading more of this author’s work in the future. 

 

I would like to thank Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of The Codebreaker’s Daughter by Amy Lynn Green.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

 

The Beijing Betrayal by Joel C. Rosenberg – Un-put-downable, Will keep you up late at night!

The Beijing Betrayal by Joel C. Rosenberg is the sixth and final book in the Marcus Ryker series.  This novel picks up where the last book, The Libyan Diversion, left off.  The United States had experienced a deadly terrorist attack by Abu Nakba and his terrorist group Kairos.  They nearly achieved their aim at taking out the President of the United States, the Pope, and as many American as they could.  If it had not been for Marcus Ryker and his team, they may have succeeded.  As it stands, far too many people were killed and injured.

 

When it becomes known that Abu Nakba, and his terror group Kairos, are still operational President Carlos Hernandez calls on the CIA’s elite team lead by Marcus Ryker to once and for all take out this terror threat.  Intelligence indicates that Abu Nakba and Kairos are operating in Pakistan.  Marcus and his team plan out their mission, but things did not quite go as planned.  When the team makes a horrifying discovery that the terrorists are working to weaponize the Cerberus virus their only option is to destroy the lab.  That explosive decision will make their covert mission a little harder to conceal from both friends and foes. 

 

Later, it discovered that Abu Nakba escaped and his terror organization is back up and running.  President Hernandez will need the CIA’s elite team to hunt down and destroy this terror group.  After the last mission, Ryker’s team is exhausted and working non-stop to try and find Nakba.  Who is funding this operation and to what end?  Is it the Russians, Iran, and how does China fit into the equation? 

 

Joel Rosenberg is one of my favorite writers.  He has a way of capturing the reader’s attention from the get-go.  The Beijing Betrayal is jam packed with action and suspense.  What would have once seemed an implausible story, now the possibilities seem all too real.  Joel is good at describing scenes and you can almost imagine it in your mind. 

 

My favorite part of the book are the characters.  Marcus Ryker is a very likable character.  He is intense and passionate about his work, cares about the people he works with, and is committed to the work they do.  I love the relationships between Marcus and his family, friends, teammates.  Even though there is plenty of action, suspense, and intrigue, it is the characters that keep my attention.  I liked the relationship between Marcus and Annie, the love and respect they have for each other.  I was rooting for them!  I liked the times where Marcus and Annie were able to talk and reflect on their relationship.  Something I appreciate about reading a book by a Christian writer is that it is clean, has no profanity, and the characters speak about their faith and try to live it out.  The Christian Gospel was shared. 

 

Since the story is about a terrorist group and their leader, the book has some violent scenes.  But Joel does not focus on the blood and gore.  With the aspect of the weaponization the Cerberus virus designed to kill people, it was rather disturbing.  But in what we have seen over the past 25 plus years, the thought of evildoers resorting to something like this is a very real possibility. 

 

Since I knew this was the last book of the Marcus Ryker series, I did not know how it would end.  Happy or sad?  As the action winds down in the story, Joel did not skimp on the ending.  He took time wrap things up with the characters readers have come to know and care about.

 

I highly recommend The Beijing Betrayal by Joel C. Rosenberg, especially for those who enjoy geo-political thrillers and Christian fiction.  It is filled with non-stop action that will keep you up late at night.  The Beijing Betrayal is un-put-downable!  You know a book is good when you are thinking about it when you are not reading it.  I look forward to reading the next book that Joel writes.  If you haven’t read all the books in the Marcus Ryker series, you may want to consider doing so. 

 

I would like to thank Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read complimentary a copy of The Beijing Betrayal by Joel C. Rosenberg.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.  

Storm Warning by Elizabeth Goddard – Filled with Mystery, Intrigue, Suspense – May keep you up at night

 

Storm Warning by Elizabeth Goddard is the first book in her Hidden Bay series.  This book is action packed from the get go, filled with mystery, intrigue, and suspense. 

 

Remi Grant first came to Cedar Trails Lodge when she was searching for a safe haven where she could escape from those trying to find her.  These days Remi works as the manager of the lodge.  The lodge is fully booked with guests who are here to watch the storm of the decade come ashore with winds and waves battering the Pacific Northwest coastline.

 

If it was up to her, Remi would not be on the beach with the storm coming in.  But she was trying to find a guest’s tiny yorkie.  Time is running out and Remi is reminded she can go up a rope ladder.  A few feet from the top Remi notices the rungs of the ladder are broken and the rope is shredded.  As she considers her options, she hears a voice, “Grab my hands now before it’s too late.”  The stranger, Hawk Beckett, caught her wrist as Remi is paralyzed in fear, and he pulls her to the top.

 

Former Night Stalker and military helicopter pilot Hawk Beckett was able to book the last cabin before the storm came in.  A friend had told him that he might find the answers he was looking for at the Cedar Trails Lodge.  Remi would like to remember what happened two years ago.  Hawk would like to forget the painful memories of the past couple of years.  Despite feeling leery of Hawk, it seems Remi will need to trust him to help protect her from whoever has finally tracked her down. 

 

Hawk Beckett was my favorite characters.  I like that he was ready, willing, and able to do whatever he had to do to protect Remi.  With all his military and security training he was the right man for the job.  With the resources that Hawk has available, he is not the average Joe.  In that sense, realism is a bit of a stretch.  Sometimes that is okay and why I am reading fiction.  There was no shortage of potential bad guys, with suspects at every turn.  I had inkling who the bad guy may be and it seems as though not everyone is who they first seem to be.  Faith was a small part of the story and I would have liked to have had that play a bigger part in the character’s lives.  Overall, I liked the book and enjoyed the mystery and suspense.  It kept me up late on more than one night. 

 

From page one, Storm Warning is action packed and filled with mystery, intrigue, and suspense.  It is fast paced and may keep you up at night until you unravel the mysteries.  If you like intrigue, mystery, and suspense you may want to read Elizabeth’s Goddard’s newest book Storm Warning. 

 

I would like to thank Revell Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of Storm Warning by Elizabeth Goddard.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

 

The House of Cross by James Patterson – Action-packed Thriller

 

The House of Cross by James Patteson is the first book that I have read by this author.  I did not know what to expect, but it really lived up to its description, An Alex Cross Thriller. 

 

Following the election, the people in Washington, D.C. are getting ready for the Inauguration of the President-Elect Jackie Johnson.  After the murder of three prospective judicial candidates for the Supreme Court, law enforcement is on high alert.  Security of the existing Supreme Court Justices is of grave concern.  Who is murdering these people and for what purpose?  Could it be the work of Maestro?  Time to call in the finest FBI investigators and consultant Alex Cross. 

 

Alex Cross will be working on this case with his wife Bree Stone and friend John Sampson.  They will be traveling across the country and into Canada to pursue their suspects.  Will they be able find and stop them on time? 

 

The House of Cross is filled with non-stop action from beginning to end.  Alex’s family and friendships were my favorite part.  I especially like his grandmother Nana Mama.  Alex is a family man and good friend.  Another character that I liked was Canadian Mounted Police officer Molly Fagan.  She is the kind of gal you want by your side when trouble hits.  She is prepared and ready for a fight. 

 

The House of Cross is an action pack thriller.  While action takes up most of the story, there is also some character and relationship development.  I liked the characters.  The plot did stretch the imagination, but I liked the story.  

 

There is some profanity in the book, less than I expect.  Also, violence due to the nature of the story.  Thankfully, the author did not go into detail on the violence that movies often show. 

 

If you like an action-packed thriller and intrigue, I recommend The House of Cross by James Patterson.  It will keep you on the edge of your seat until you get to the last page. 

 

I would like to thank publisher Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of The House of Cross by James Patterson.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly – Intrigue and Mystery During WWII

 If you enjoy a good story with mystery and intrigue, Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly may be the book for you.  This is the second book in the Evelyne Redfern Mystery series.

 

Evelyne Redfern completed her training at the finishing school for the Special Investigations Unit.  She has been summoned to headquarters to receive her first assignment.  On her way, Evelyne encounters David Pool whom she had previously worked with.  Evelyne is assigned to investigate an anonymous report that things have gone missing at Blackthorn Park, a facility that develops weapons.  David has also been assigned.  This time he will be Evelyne’s handler and not a field agent. 

 

Under the cover of night, Evelyne makes her way through the grounds to the manor house.  After picking the lock Evelyne hears a gunshot.  She dashes up the stairs and enters Sir Nigel’s office and finds the man dead of what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.  Or is it?  Is it connected to the report of missing supplies?

 

I love reading historical fiction, especially from the timeframe of WWII.  Betrayal at Blackthorn Park was filled with mystery and intrigue. 

 

I enjoyed reading this book because of the main characters Evelyne and David.  Both characters were very likable and had an interesting relationship.  There was some attraction between the two.  But they were both professional and respected one another.  The author did a good job in describing the scenes and characters so the reader can visualize them.  There were lot of characters and many twists and turns.  I was trying to guess whodunit based on the evidence and possible suspects.  The book kept me guessing to the end. 

 

I really enjoyed reading Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly and recommend it.  This was the second book in the Evelyne Redfern Mystery series, but it worked well as a standalone book.  Now I want to go back and read the first book in the series, A Traitor in Whitehall, and look forward to reading more of Julia Kelly’s books.  If you like historical fiction, mysteries, intrigue, and WWII history, be sure to read this book. 

 

I would like to thank St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

 

The Berlin Letters by Katherine Reay – Fascinating, Compelling, Filled with Intrigue

 

When I read the description about Katherine Reay’s new book, The Berlin Letters, I wanted to read it.  So glad I had the opportunity.  It was a great book.  

 

Monica Voekler loved her husband Haris and enjoyed their life together in East Berlin with their daughter Luisa.  But she did not share Haris’ appreciation for the GDR government.  The day came when the wall went up, guards would not let people pass through to West Berlin, and razor wire deterred citizens trying to escape.  That day Monica was desperate and would resort to the unthinkable to ensure her daughter would be safe.  She tossed her beloved daughter to her father on the other side of the wall.  Their lives changed that day, for Monica and Haris, and for three-year-old Luisa and her Grandparents who later moved to America.

 

The Berlin Letters is a wonderful read.  The novel takes place during the Cold War and spans 28 years, from 1961 to 1989.  It tells the story about a family divided and torn apart by the oppressive German Democratic Republic and the Berlin Wall.  It is filled with mystery, intrigue, secrets, spies, snitches, encrypted letters, and code breaking.  It tells the story of people who risked their lives to get the truth out the world with the hope of change and freedom. 

 

As fascinating as the intrigue is the story was made even more compelling by the characters and their relationships.  The characters came across as very real as we learn about their experiences and what they are thinking and feeling.  The characters grew and changed over the years.

 

I enjoyed reading historical fiction and Katherine Reay did a fabulous job making the characters come to life during the fascinating time of the Cold War.  The Berlin Letters is a is compelling, thoughtful novel, and filled with intrigue. 

 

The Berlin Letters is the first novel I have read by Katherine Reay and I am so glad I discovered her work.  I was reminded when reading this book, what an incredible time we lived through when we saw the Berlin Wall come down and freedom come to those who were oppressed.  I look forward to reading more of her books. 

 

I would like to thank Publisher Harper Muse and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complementary copy of The Berlin Letters by Katherine Reay.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

 

Fatal Witness by Patricia Bradley – Interesting Plot, But the Story Got Bogged Down

 

I enjoy suspense and mystery novels and was excited to read Patricia Bradley’s newest book Fatal Witness, the second book in the Pearl River Novel series.  A cold case, family secrets, a repressed memory, and a family seeking justice makes for an interesting mystery. 

 

At age nine, Danielle witnessed her parents’ murders and was whisked away by her uncle Keith.  It has been twenty-five years and Dani has no memory of the events that changed her life.  Her uncle has protected and insulated her from all possible danger.  While she has no memory of her family, she inherited the natural artistic talents of her grandmother Mae.  The subject of a recent magazine article, Dani has been invited to attend an artist workshop in Cincinnati.  Though Dani has no memory of her early life, her grandmother has never forgotten her, nor stopped looking for her.  Seeing the article in the pottery magazine, Mae is certain that Dani may be her long-lost granddaughter. 

 

I found the storyline intriguing.  I liked Dani and was curious about her uncle Keith and how he would react to Dani venturing out on her own.  I liked her grandmother Mae who was willing to press law enforcement to investigate this cold case and find her granddaughter.  Law enforcement officers in the remote area of Tennessee were stretched thin and had a lot of area to cover.  But Mark Lassiter with his K-9 companion Gem, along with Alex Stone and her team would do what they could investigate this cold case and protect those in danger. 

 

Once Dani is back in Tennessee, things heat up and it appears the murderer will stop at nothing to protect their secrets.  At this point in the story, it seemed to get bogged down.  I struggled with the last half of the story. There were a lot of characters and potential suspects to weed through.  There were some strategic errors made by law enforcement several times.  Some risks and decisions that were made were not logical.  As a former military sharp shooter, I found it interesting that Mark allowed himself to be distracted. 

 

Faith was a small part of the story and a Bible verse was focused on in times of danger.  I would like to have seen Mark’s faith more fully developed and part of the story. 

 

I liked the storyline and characters in Fatal Witness, but found the story dragged in the last half of the novel. 

 

I would to thank NetGalley and Revell Publishing for the opportunity to read Patricia Bradley’s book Fatal Witness.  If you enjoy Patricia Bradley’s writing and like mysteries and intrigue, you may enjoy this book.  I was provided with a complimentary copy of Fatal Witness.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

 

Shadows at Dusk by Elizabeth Goddard – Not Believable, Convoluted, and Stretched the Imagination

 

Shadows at Dusk is Elizabeth’s Goddard newest book.  I have read several of her books and looked forward to reading her latest mystery.

 

Shadows at Dusk tells the story of Detective Trevor West who is searching in Alaska for his sister Jennifer Warren who disappeared over a year ago.  Trevor is a former US Marshal and knows how to track people.  But will he be able to solve the case that is most important to him?  He enlists the help of Alaskan bush pilot Carrie James to help him follow Jennifer’s trail.  Reluctantly, Carrie agrees to help him.  Not long into their journey it appears that someone does not want them to continue their search and will do whatever it takes to stop them.  But who exactly is the target?  Is it Trevor or is it Carrie? 

 

Let me start with the things I liked about this book.  I enjoyed learning about beauty of this vast, remote, and treacherous terrain.  I liked the character Trevor, he seemed like caring, determined, and faithful friend.  I liked Rip who was willing to help them on their mission, even at great risk to himself. 

 

I struggled greatly with this book for several reasons.  I hate it when characters do something stupid and illogical that puts them at risk and in danger.  Both Trevor and Carrie did that repeatedly throughout this story.  At times even acknowledging that they made a bad decision or calculation.  But they never seemed to learn from their mistakes.  Things like not making copies or photographs of key pieces of evidence.  Not giving that evidence to the police.

 

The storyline did not seem plausible.  From the bad guy behind it all and those who were helping him try to stop Trevor and Carrie.  It appears that someone from Carrie’s past might also be targeting Trevor.  Speaking of Carrie, I did not like or connect with her character.  This story stretched the imagination, not in a good way.  The story was not believable.  Because the characters continued to make unwise and illogical decisions, over and over again, I stopped caring about them.  I did not understand why a trained law enforcement officer would make some of the irrational decisions he did. 

 

There was very little about God or faith mentioned in the book.

 

From my perspective, I did not like Shadows at Dusk by Elizabeth Goddard.  The storyline was not believable.  Characters made illogical decisions that put them at risk throughout the story.  The story drug on and on.  It was too complicated and convoluted. 

 

I have read other stories by Elizabeth Goddard and enjoyed them and would like to read more in the future.  But Shadows at Dusk missed the mark and I would not recommend it. 

 

I would like to thank Revell Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of Shadows at Dusk by Elizabeth Goddard.  I was under no obligations to give a favorable review. 

 

Into the Fire by Irene Hannon – An Interesting and Satisfying Read

Irene Hannon has become one of my favorite writers.  I enjoy her romance stories and suspense novels.  That is why I was excited to read her newest book Into the Fire, the first book in the Undaunted Courage series.

 

Bri Tucker was scheduled to meet with retired arson investigator, Les Kavanaugh, to review several cases he thought merited further investigation.  Instead, she finds herself at Les’ home investigating a fire that has taken his life.  The next day Bri reluctantly accepts help from ATF Agent Marc Davis.  After Bri and Marc examined the scene, both agree that there wasn’t much of anything to suggest arson.  Just that nagging feeling that something is not right.  Though Bri and Marc find each other attractive, each has their own emotional baggage that may make developing a personal relationship difficult. 

 

I really liked this book.  I found the investigation of a fire very interesting.  What makes a fire suspicious vs accidental, and what information is relevant in an arson case.  I liked the characters.  At first, I wasn’t too keen on Bri.  But as her background was unveiled, I grew to appreciate her.  Marc was a wonderful character, kind, caring, wise, and protective.  Also enjoyed the Bri’s sister and brother and their close, and supportive relationships.  Loved Marc’s grandmother, such a sweet, wise, and caring woman. 

 

I did not suspect who the bad guy was.  Interesting that the story begins with the perspective of the arsonist.  About two thirds of the way through the story the bad guy is revealed, which causes the reader to look forward to seeing how the characters will solve the case.

 

Faith was part of the story, especially with Marc’s character.  I would like to have seen it even more with other characters. 

 

With the mix of an interesting plot, likeable characters, mystery, suspense, and romance, Into the Fire by Irene Hanson was an interesting and satisfying read.  I recommend it.  The book will be released on October 17, 2023.  

 

I would like to thank Revell Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of Into the Fire by Irene Hannon.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

 

Countdown by Lynette Eason – Mixed Reaction

 

I have enjoyed several novels by Lynette Eason and was excited to read her newest release Countdown, the fourth book in the Extreme Measures series. 

Raina Price works as a flight paramedic along with her friends Penny and Holly.  Raina had to reinvent her life due to an abusive relationship from which she had escaped.  To protect herself and her loved ones there is no going back.  While watching sports news Raina sees a young snowboarder who is the spitting imagine of the man from whom she escaped.  If she has seen Michael Harrison, surely the boy’s father will see him and figure out who he is. How can she protect the boy?  Raina’s been feeling spooked lately, like someone has watching her.  US Marshal Vincent Covelli is concerned and wants to help Raina.  Will she accept his help or try to go it alone?  How can Vincent and law enforcement help protect Raina from a man whose true-identity and whereabouts are unknown?

This book had a lot of twists and turns.  The action and intrigue did not stop until the end. 

What I liked about the book: I appreciated the friendships that Raina had with Penny and Holly and their friends.  They were a closeknit group and there for each other, through thick and thin.  I liked Vincent, he was a very caring and patient man, ready to put himself in danger to protect Raina. 

What I struggled with: Countdown really stretched the imagination on believability.  I understand that there are evil people out there who are intent on causing harm and destruction.  But to have someone keep track of a person for many years, as well as those with associated with her, was not believable.  To be able track when she called a person after many years, who has the resources to that? 

It did not make sense that Raina who has been in constant fear for her life, especially following an incident, would come home and not lock the garage door.  Come on!  The logic on why the bad guy was doing what he did, it was a stretch too.

I would like to have seen the characters’ faith a bigger part of the story.  Instead, it seemed cursory. 

There were things I liked about Countdown and some things I was not too keen on.  I like Lynette Eason's writing, but Countdown was not my favorite.  If you are a fan of Lynette Eason and have read the earlier books in this series, you may enjoy it. 

I would like to thank Revell Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of Countdown by Lynette Eason.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.

 

The Raging Storm by Ann Cleeves – Unlikable Characters and Convoluted Story

                                 

Ann Cleeves is an excellent storyteller and I was excited for the opportunity to read her new book The Raging Storm, the third book in the Detective Matthew Venn series.  I have not read the first two books. 

 

Matthew Venn and his team were called to handle a case in Greystone, Devon after a famous sailor and adventurer, Jem Rosco, has been found dead in a dinghy.  Though Jem hails from the Greystone area, he is not necessarily considered a local hero by those who knew him way back when.  Will the investigators be able to draw out the truth from the people in this community?

 

I wanted to like this book, but I really struggled with the characters.  The main character Matthew was not likable.  He came off as a miserable man, who chose to carry the baggage from his past, and have a chip on his shoulder.  At times he treated his team poorly and seemed to have a low opinion of them, as well as the townspeople. 

 

Of all the characters I liked Sergeant Jen Rafferty the best.  Her character was better developed and came across likeable.  Though things are not easy in her life, she doesn’t wallow in self-pity.  Ross May’s character was rather flat and the object of Matthew’s criticism. 

 

From Matthew’s experience of religion, to the people in the community that seemed rather cultish, Christianity was portrayal as unhealthy.  It was an unrealistic portrayal of Christian believers. 

 

The story was very convoluted.  The people in the community seems rather insular and secretive, not the kind of folks you want to spend time with.  There were only a few characters that were somewhat likeable.  The story seemed to drag on and I just wanted it to end.  From the town, to most the characters everything about this booked seemed rather grey and unappealing. 

 

I have enjoyed Ann Cleeve’s other books and movies taken from her novels.  But The Raging Storm was not appealing.  When the main character is so off-putting it doesn’t make a good foundation for a story.  I would like have to have had the other characters on Matthew’s team better developed. 

 

Because of the unlikable main character Matthew and the convoluted story that dragged on, I didn’t care for The Raging Storm. 

 

I would like to thank St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read Ann Cleeve’s book The Raging Storm.  I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to give a favorable review.  The Raging Storm is schedule to be released September 5, 2023. 

The Libyan Diversion by Joel Rosenberg – Un-Putdownable and Will Keep You Awake at Night

 

Joel Rosenberg is one of my favorite authors.  When he writes a new book, I want to read it.  On May 16, 2023, The Libyan Diversion, the fifth book in the Marcus Ryker series will be released.  

 

Joel Rosenberg is a compelling writer.  From the get-go I was all in and didn’t want to put this book down.  The Libyan Diversion’s storyline could have been ripped from today’s headline news.  As horrifying as some of the scenarios are, unfortunately they are believable in today’s world.

 

Marcus Ryker is back in the United States and has no time to mend before he is called to present information to President Clark and his cabinet members.  Marcus and his team have done a thorough investigation and it appears that Abu Nakba, man behind the recent Kairos terrorist strikes around the world, is within reach and can be taken down.  Abu Nakba and his network.

 

When news breaks that the authorized strike may have hit the wrong target, the job for Marcus and his team just got a whole lot more complicated.  In addition to the fallout from the strike, there is a concern about another planned Kairos strike in the United States with four possible targets. 

 

I enjoyed reading this book.  I like the characters, the fast pace and action.  I appreciate the clarity between good and evil.  Marcus and several of the other characters are Christians and faith was a small part of the story.  I would like to have seen that element further developed.  I liked Marcus and his team and their dedication to do whatever it takes to stop the terrorists.  The Libyan Diversion keeps the action going until the very end. 

 

Joel Rosenberg’s The Libyan Diversion will keep you up late at night.  It’s un-putdownable.  

 

If you like geo-political thrillers, intrigue, and action, you will want to get The Libyan Diversion by Joel Rosenberg.  I highly recommend it.  If you haven’t read the earlier books in this series, I recommend you get those too. 

 

I would like to thank Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complementary copy of The Libyan Diversion by Joel Rosenberg.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.