Saturday, March 16, 2024

NEVER FALL AGAIN by Lynn H. Blackburn, Reviewed and Tour hosted by Paula Shreckhise #PartnersInCrimeTour

 

Never Fall Again

by Lynn H Blackburn

March 4-29, 2024 Virtual Book Tour

Synopsis:

Never Fall Again by Lynn H Blackburn

Landry Hutton has spent three years rebuilding her life behind the secure gates of The Haven, an exclusive resort on the outskirts of Gossamer Falls, North Carolina. As the artist-in-residence, and with her pottery prized by The Haven's guests, Landry is finally ready to settle in permanently. She wants to give her daughter, Eliza, a safe home to grow up in and hires former Marine Callum Shaw to handle the construction.

Cal grew up in Gossamer Falls and always knew he would someday join his family's business. He longs for a family of his own but has almost given up on that ever happening. Landry is funny, gifted, and everything Cal could ever want in a partner, but he vows to keep his distance. Landry has a daughter and a past. Cal has been down that road before and barely survived when the woman he loved left, taking her two sons with her. He can't bear to lose like that again.

Before construction on the house can begin, Landry's pottery is destroyed in a suspicious fire. It soon becomes clear that Landry and Eliza are in grave danger--but because of whom? But, after losing one relationship, he is hesitant to try again.

Praise for Never Fall Again:

"What a fabulous story with characters who will live in your head--and heart--long after the last word."
~ Lynette Eason, award-winning, bestselling author of the Lake City Heroes series

"Lynn Blackburn's voice is unrivaled! A must-read."
~ Elizabeth Goddard, bestselling author of Cold Light of Day

"This book had it all--a delicious romance, obsession, found family, redemption and reconciliation, edge-of-your-seat suspense, and the kind of ending we all root for!"
~ Susan May Warren, USA Today bestselling and RITA Award-winning author

Book Details:

Genre: Romantic Suspense
Published by: Revell
Publication Date: March 12, 2024
Number of Pages: 352
ISBN: 9780800745363 (ISBN10: 0800745361)
Series: Gossamer Falls, Book 1
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads | Baker Book House

Read an excerpt:

They passed several offices before they reached an open door.

“Maisy. Stay.” That same deep voice from the intercom floated to the hallway.

“Oooh! A dog!” Eliza dashed into the room.

Her little sprite was fast and already halfway across the office before Landry realized what was happening. “Eliza, wait!” Fortunately, she stopped at Landry’s words.

“I know, Mommy. Never touch a dog without permission. I just want to see.”

Eliza turned her big brown eyes toward the man who had come around his desk and knelt beside a dog now quivering with excitement.

The man—Callum Shaw, she assumed—met her daughter’s eyes and said, “Your mom’s right. You can’t ever rush at a dog, even dogs as gentle as this big baby. But if it’s okay with your mom . . .”

His eyes, which were as blue as the Carolina sky, now met hers. There was humor and gentleness. And shadows. Something dark flitted across his gaze. But then he blinked and it was gone.

Landry nodded her permission, and he turned all his attention back to her daughter. “This is Maisy. She’s a golden retriever. She’s three years old. She loves long walks in the woods, sunbathing, peanut butter, and belly rubs.” He demonstrated the belly rub. Maisy melted under his touch, and Eliza crept closer. “You can pet her. Maisy doesn’t bite my friends.”

Eliza dropped to her knees beside Callum and held out her hand toward Maisy’s nose.

Maisy took a quick sniff and rewarded Eliza’s good behavior with a lick. Callum stayed where he was until it was clear to everyone that Eliza and Maisy were set, then he rose to his feet and extended a hand. “Ms. Hutton.”

“Landry. Please.”

“Landry. A pleasure.”

Landry kept the contact brief. “Sorry, my hands are rough.” She turned them palms up. “Hazards of the job.”

Why had she said that? What did it matter if her hands were a bit on the crispy side? She didn’t have to prove anything to this man. Embarrassment crept across her and burst through her pores, heating her neck and face, and now she had no idea what to do with her hands. Should she put them down? Tuck them behind her back?

Callum glanced at her hands and turned his own up. “Same here.” He heaved a dramatic sigh. “It’s to my eternal despair that I’ll never land that hand modeling contract I’ve always hoped for.”

His easy humor made it automatic to tease him back. “Well, there’s always ditch digging.”

“Good point. If this construction gig doesn’t work out, I’ll have something to fall back on.” Callum turned his attention to Eliza. “And I gather your name is Eliza?”

She giggled with the abandon unique to happy children. “That’s right, but sometimes Mommy calls me Liza or ZaZa, but never Lizzy because that’s too close to Landry, and it gets confusing.”

Landry tried to keep a straight face as Eliza parroted what she’d heard Landry say too many times to count.

“It’s a pleasure, Ms. Eliza.” Callum pressed a hand to his chest. “I’m Cal Shaw. I’ll answer to Callum, but not LumLum because”— he dropped his voice to a stage whisper—“that’s just not dignified.”

Eliza’s laughter filled the room. Bronwyn hadn’t been wrong about Cal Shaw. He was very good with children. Even now, he kept his attention on Eliza. “Are you good here with Maisy while your mom and I talk?”

“Yes, sir.”

Cal grabbed a legal pad and pen from his desk and took the chair opposite the one he directed Landry to sit in. From their seats, they could both see Eliza and Maisy.

She waited for him to start the conversation, but maybe she was supposed to go first?

“She’s a beau—”

“Land—”

They both stopped talking, and his smile seemed genuine as he nodded to her. “Please. Go ahead.”

“I was going to say your dog is beautiful.” She willed her body to stop flushing scarlet, but it refused to cooperate. She didn’t have to see herself to know that her face, neck, chest, and even her feet were on fire. This was why she did best behind the walls of The Haven. She could interact with the patrons there with minimal difficulty. But put her out in public, and she became a tongue-tied, socially inept disaster.

Cal’s grin held mischief, and he leaned toward her. “If all goes as planned, she’ll be pregnant soon. I bet Eliza would love a puppy for Christmas.” His voice was cajoling and teasing, but at least he had the good sense to keep it too low for Eliza to hear.

He winked in a way that was friendly and not flirtatious, and Landry understood why Bronwyn liked him so much. He leaned back and in a normal voice said, “I gathered from your conversation with Carla that you’re going to build nearby.”

“Yes. I have three acres on the edge of Pierce land.” She watched him carefully as she spoke and was unsurprised when his grip tightened on the pen at her words.

“How long have you lived in Gossamer Falls?”

“Long enough to know the Pierce and Quinn families don’t get along.”

***

Excerpt from Never Fall Again by Lynn H Blackburn. Copyright 2024 by Lynn H Blackburn. Reproduced with permission from Lynn H Blackburn. All rights reserved.


PAULA'S REVIEW:

What a wonderful setting is Gossamer Falls, North Carolina. It is a small town with interwoven families, beautiful scenery and an exclusive resort. I loved the Quinn family and the dynamics of brothers Cal, Conner and Chad Shaw. They are owners of a construction company and the interactions with cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, where everyone in the small town is so connected could be confusing, but it was so much fun!
 

Landry Hutton is a potter and art teacher at The Haven resort and is hiding from her past with her 5 year old daughter, Eliza. When a fire and vandalism disrupt her life, ex Marine Cal Shaw steps in and his whole family, including his dog, Maisey, are there to comfort Landry. I like the way Cal is drawn to Landry and wants to protect her. His interaction with Eliza shows he is good Dad material.

This story was very suspenseful and also very romantic. I did not want to put the book down! I look forward to the next book in the series because there are hints at several matchups in the making.
* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell through PICT tours, Interviews and Reviews and Netgalley. I was not required to post a positive review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a strong faith thread

Author Bio:

Lynn H Blackburn

Lynn H. Blackburn is the award-winning author of Unknown Threat, Malicious Intent, and Under Fire, as well as the Dive Team Investigations series. She loves writing swoon-worthy Southern suspense because her childhood fantasy was to become a spy, but her grown-up reality is that she's a huge chicken and would have been caught on her first mission. She prefers to live vicariously through her characters by putting them into terrifying situations while she sits at home in her pajamas. She lives in Simpsonville, South Carolina, with her true love, Brian, and their three children.

Catch Up With Our Author:
www.LynnHBlackburn.com
Goodreads
BookBub - @LynnHBlackburn
Instagram - @lynnhblackburn
Twitter/X - @LynnHBlackburn
Facebook - @LynnHBlackburn

 

 

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Thursday, March 14, 2024

ONE LAST SHOT by Susan May Warren, Reviewed by Kim

(Alaska Air One Rescue Book 1)
 
One Last Shot just may be my favorite Susan May Warren book to date! I enjoyed this story from start to finish. The romance, action, mystery, and faith message were all so well done.

I really enjoyed everything about this story! The romance between Oaken and Boo was perfect! I loved their chemistry. The action had me holding my breath and turning the pages as fast as I could. I enjoyed the mystery and was totally surprised at who the villain was. The faith thread was prominent throughout and felt natural to the story.


This story is full of action, romance and faith that will keep you turning the pages long into the night. You don’t want to miss it. The blurb about book two, One Last Chance, has me hooked already. I can’t wait till it’s out!
*I received a complimentary copy of this story. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is prominent throughout. 5 stars! 
 

BackCover Blurb:
When country music star Oaken Fox joins survivalist Mike Grizz's new adventure show in the Alaskan wilderness, he just wants to boost his fan base. But when tragedy strikes, and Air One Rescue must save them, Oaken just wants to quit. Too bad his producer has other plans—signing him on with Air One Rescue as a recruit and making a reality show...

EMT Boo Kingston did not join Air One Rescue to train a celebrity. But she's a rookie to the team, so yes, she'll train Oaken and keep him alive and not for a minute pay attention to his charm...

And then five women go missing from a resort during a bachelorette weekend gone south. Now, Air One and the rescue team will have to use all their skills--and manpower, including Oaken--to find them before a blizzard settles in. But can they work together before tragedy strikes?

Alaska Air One Rescue
Book 1: One Last Shot
Book 2: One Last Chance
Book 3: One Last Promise
Book 4: One Last Stand 

March, 2024 Available in digital ebook, hardcover, and paperback.


Wednesday, March 13, 2024

EMBERS IN THE LONDON SKY by Sarah Sundin, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney


"All Aleida had to remember her son was a suitcase full of tiny clothes. And Oli."

As if life couldn't get any harder for Aleida van der Zee Martens while fleeing the Netherlands to escape the German invasion . . . it does. Awakening to discover that her cruel husband had torn their three year old son from her arms and thrust him into the hands of strangers, Aleida suddenly became a widow. Struggling onward to London where she has family close by, Aleida secures a position that will allow her to search for Theo while she helps to promote the evacuation of children out to the countryside. One of the many unexpected blessings comes in the form of a handsome, winsome, resourceful, and extremely kind BBC radio correspondent, Hugh Collingwood.

Hugh Collingwood is on a quest of his own making . . . to prove to his family that being a war correspondent is a calling worthy of the highly respectable Collingwood name. He has gained quite a reputation with his live action reporting, but not everyone wants the kind of censor-free information that Hugh strives to deliver, nor does everyone in London take kindly to the steady flow of refugees into the city. As Hugh and Aleida deepen their companionship, danger and unfortunate disappointment follow along closely. Will there ever be more . . . will they ever be three?
Carefully scripted scenes draw back the curtain on what it would have been like to survive the incessant bombings in London during the German Blitz, the courage it would have taken to report the news fairly and truthfully, the heartache born by the many parents who were separated from their children, and the treachery that undoubtedly pervaded the minds and attitudes of many due to misplaced alliances. And yet rising above it all . . .
" . . . love defeats hatred . . . light conquers darkness . . . life triumphs over death. Love glows in the midst of the flames, and new life - new life stirs amongst the embers."


Another fabulous historical romance by this author  . . . which like Oli, readers will always remember. 

*I purchased this book and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 4.5 stars
 
SEE REVIEWS BY WINNIE AND PAULA

BackCover Blurb:
As the German army invades the Netherlands in 1940, Aleida van der Zee Martens escapes to London to wait out the Occupation. Separated from her three-year-old son, Theo, in the process, the young widow desperately searches for her little boy even as she works for an agency responsible for evacuating children to the countryside.

When German bombs set London ablaze, BBC radio correspondent Hugh Collingwood reports on the Blitz, eager to boost morale while walking the fine line between truth and censorship. But the Germans are not the only ones Londoners have to fear as a series of murders flame up amid the ashes.

The deaths hit close to home for Hugh, and Aleida needs his help to locate her missing son. As they work together, they grow closer and closer, both to each other and the answers they seek. But with bombs falling and continued killings, they may be running out of time. 

Revell Publishing, February, 2024
Available in digital ebook, paperback,hardcover, and audiobook:
Buy EMBERS IN THE LONDON SKY at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House
 

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

IF THE BOOT FITS by Karen Witemeyer, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

Texas Ever After #2
(A Christian Historical Western Romance 
Fairy Tale Retelling of Cinderella)


A cute reverse Cinderella story occurs when Asher Ellis loses a boot on Dearing property.
 

With plenty of excitement and a hero who has everything going for him except wealth, this story captured my interest.
Samantha Dearing is headstrong, opinionated and jumps to conclusions where her father is concerned. But she is determined and is willing to directly confront him.
 

When danger strikes, Asher comes to the rescue on more than one occasion. He shows his faith by his caring and compassion, asking for forgiveness and taking responsibility for his actions. It is clear that Samantha is a Christian, using scripture to take comfort, admonish and build herself up. She acts out her faith in her good works that could be seen as meddling. A valuable lesson she learns is that God gives her freedom to make choices as long as they do not violate things clearly defined in scripture, such as where to live, who to marry or a vocation.

The words flow effortlessly and tell a rousing story with much valid spiritual wisdom.

I cannot wait for the next installment of Texas Everafter Series.
*I received a complimentary book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a strong faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
One fateful night will change their destinies forever. . . .

Convinced that his stepmother and half brothers have been wrongfully evicted by cattle king Eli Dearing, Asher Ellis uses the cover of an extravagant ball to break into the Three Cedars' ranch house to search for proof. On the verge of discovery, he flees, but a boy's cry compels him to make a daring rescue.

Spunky and independent Samantha Dearing balks when she learns the ball her father is hosting is nothing more than a matrimonial ambush. Taking a break from unwanted suitors, Samantha spots a thief fleeing her home. When the stranger ends up saving her brother's life, she hides the only clue to his identity left behind--his boot--and resolves to find him herself.

When Samantha encounters the older brother of a student she tutors, all thoughts of the bootless mystery man vanish. Asher values family above wealth, a rare trait that opens her heart. Afraid she will discover his past misconduct, Asher tries to keep his distance, but when a series of suspicious accidents befall her, he vows to protect her, even though saving her life could mean losing her love.

Bethany House Publishing, March, 2024
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:
 

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