Secret Mountain Hideout by Terri Reed - Review

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Staying hidden has kept her alive...

But now she's been found.

A remote Colorado mountain town and a fake identity have been Ashley Willis's safe haven since fleeing after she witnessed a murder--but now the killer has found her trail. Desperate and terrified, she's prepared to run again...but Deputy Sheriff Chase Fredrick won't let her. With the lawman by her side, can she face danger head-on...and live long enough to bring a murderer to justice?

MY  REVIEW

Very good book, a lot of action so you won't want to put it down. The author has not failed to keep you wanting to read more of her books.

 

Courage in the Mountain Wilderness by Misty M Beller - Review of the fourth book in the Call of the Rockies series

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(Copied from Amazon.com)

Keeping her son safe on this epic journey may be harder than she imagined.

Caleb Jackson is on a journey. And not just the mission he and his friends have embarked on to fetch the Nez Perce chief's runaway daughter. Maybe someday, he could also find God's plan for his life. He'd once thought being a small town minister was the Lord's will for him, but he'd proved a failure at living under the scrutiny of his congregation. Yet the chief's niece and her feisty toddler accompanying them on this expedition make him feel like he might be able to make a difference yet.

Otskai is eager to take on a challenge. She's lived under the shelter of other's choices her entire life,

especially when she was betrothed to one of the village braves at the tender age of eight. Now with her husband's death, she's finally found the freedom she always craved--even with a two-year-old to raise.

She's built her camas root harvest into a thriving trade to provide all she and her son need and more, yet she can't seem to keep her active child safe. When she agrees to accompany her new friends on a trip to bring back her wayward cousin, she knows she'll have her hands full managing her boy.

The journey turns out nothing like Otskai expects, and for the first time in her life, she's thankful to have others around to help. Especially Caleb, whose gentle attentions captivate her son and occupy him for hours at a time. But as the danger escalates and her worst fears come to light, she must find the courage to choose between freedom and a love more liberating than she imagined possible.

MY  REVIEW

So many catastrophes and they keep going, the strength of people during this time period make me feel weak. We have become so accustomed to our modern day lives, have you ever thought about if you'd survive living that lifestyle? Yes, if we were born and raised then, we would, but it just makes you admire what our ancestors went through. Loved the book!!!!

Faith in the Mountain Valley by Misty M Beller - Review of the fifth book in the Call of the Rockies series

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(copied from Amazon.com)

This epic journey is the only way to leave her secrets behind.

After eleven years spent looking for the girl who stole his heart, Jean-Jacques Baptiste--better known as French to his friends--is tempted to give up. Until the day he spotted the flaxen-haired stranger traveling the wooded path with Blackfoot Indians. He never imagined he'd find his childhood friend masquerading as a man in this Rocky Mountain wilderness, hundreds of miles from the Canadian town where he last saw her. No matter her reasons, he can't let her go this time.

Colette Mignon's life has become a cacophony of lies, including the fact that her Blackfoot Indian companions believe she's a man. She's willing to live the taxing life of a trapper in these desolate mountains as long as it keeps her secrets  hidden. When her childhood friend and first love discovers her, his determination to help might put everything at risk.

ASs the worst of her pas threatens to catch up with her, the hope for Colette's new life shatters. But no matter what, she must protect the one good thing that came from all her mistakes. Thought French is determined to stay at her side, she can't let him become entangled in the perilous consequences of her actions. If only it wasn't so painful to push him away. The danger pressing in may leave her only one choice--leave everything behind...again.

MY  REVIEW

This was a wonderful story about a young woman who did what she had to protect herself and trust strangers. These women have such strength and faith it amazes me. Thank you to Misty Beller for this awesome series.

First Christmas on Huckleberry Hill by Jennifer Beckstrand - Review of the tenth book in the Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series

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Before irrepressible eighty-somethings Anna and Felty Helmuth

became Huckleberry Hill, Wisconsin's most-beloved

matchmakers, they were mismatched young lovers

facing seemingly impossible obstacles...

She can't cook, sew, sing, or clean. And no matter how hard young Anna Yoder tries, she'd much rather help people in trouble than be a well-behaved pretty face and properly perfect Amish maidel. So she instantly reaches out to her old schoolmate, Felty Helmuth, when their Amish town ostracizes him for his Korean War army service. He's still the only one who's ever understood Anna--and liked everything from her green Jello carrot salads to her love of books. And this holiday season, she can't help hoping that somehow she and Felty can find a way to be the perfect match ...

Felty sensed he was called by Gotte to serve his country, though it went against his community's peaceful ways. Troubled by his wartime experiences, he is resigned to being an outsider avoided by most eligible Amish girls. But lively, intelligent Anna has grown into a warm-hearted generous woman who accepts Felty for who he is. And in the face of family and community opposition, he and Anna will take a leap of faith to prove they are made for each other--and a lifetime of happiness.

MY  REVIEW

It is so wonderful to finally hear Anna and Felty's story! I have enjoyed this series so much I hate to see it end, I am so hoping the author has more stories for us to enjoy.

 

Lemon Drop Dead by Amanda Flower - Review of the sixth book in the Amish Candy Shop Mystery series

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Murder always leaves a sour taste . . .

Though baby showers aren't an Amis tradition, Bailey King wants to celebrate Emily Keim's forthcoming bundle of joy. It's the least she can do for her hardworking assistant at Swissmen Sweets, especially with Emily being estranged from her siblings. Everyone in Harvest, Ohio has gathered at the town gazebo--decked out in lemon-themed decor to add some of Emily's favorite flavor to the festivities--including Juliet Brook, Jethro the Pig, and in a last-minute invite, Emily's sister Esther Esh.

But Esther isn't the only surprise guest. A mysterious Amish woman confronts Emily claiming to know about her secret shame--the child she had as a teenager who was given up for adoption. The stranger vanishes before Bailey can find out who she was and if she knew what happened to Emily's first baby. Later that evening, the woman reappears--dead in Esh Family Pretzels, with a threatening letter written by Esther found on her body.

Emily knows her sister is not a murderer and convinces Bailey to help clear Esther's name and put the squeeze on the real killer ...

MY  REVIEW

It's been a year since I read a book in this series, to be fair, this one came out this April and I had to wait for my daughter to read it and get it too me, now I will pass it on to her mother-in-law. It seemed like it was just yesterday that I read the last one though as the characters were all still there and what a story this was, couldn't put it down. I really enjoy this series.

Just an FYI, there is a book coming out anytime now, I think, "Amish Candy Shop Holidays", which will be the three short stories ("Criminally Cocoa"1.5, "Botched Butterscotch" 2.5 and "Candy Cane Crime" 3.5 that you could only get as an e-book before). Yes, my daughter has it ordered so we can all read it too.

 

Light in the Mountain Sky by Misty M Beller - Review of the third book of the Call of the Rockies series

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(copied from Amazon.com)

This epic journey may seal her fate forever.

Determined to prove her worth, Meksem fiercely fought to earn her place among the warriors in her Nez Perce camp. When her half-sister is captured by an enemy e, she refuses to trust the rescue to anyone else. But her new friends insist on joining her mission, and she battles between relief and frustration at their presence. Especially the white man who peers at her as if he can see through the face of the warrior she struggles so hard to maintain.

Spaniard Adam Vargas thrives on adventure wherever his travels take him. He's fallen in love with this Rocky Mountain wilderness, as well as the spotted horses the Nez Perce tribe raise. His fascination with this Indian maiden-turned-warrior catches him off guard though, including the way she seems to be fighting for more than her sister's safe return.

The journey proves more perilous than any of the group expects, and the secret Meksem hides becomes impossible to conceal. If they live through this mission, the life they knew will never be the same again.

MY  REVIEW

Yes, I have to say again, I really enjoyed this book, Misty Beller is a wonderful writer. She pulls you right into the story as you go on this long, freezing, near-death trail. 

Cowboy Charm School by Margaret Brownley - Review of the first book in The Haywire Brides series

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When Texas Ranger Brett Tucker accidentally derails a wedding, he's determined to bring the estranged couple back together . . . but he never dreamed he'd start falling for the bride!

Texas Ranger Brett Tucker hates to break up a wedding, but the groom---notorious criminal Frank Foster---is a danger to any woman. So he busts into the church, guns blazing . . . only to find he has the wrong man.

STOP  THAT  WEDDING!

Bride-to-be Kate Denver is appalled by her fiance's over-the-top reaction to the innocent stake and calls off the wedding---for good. Guilt-ridden, Brett's desperate to get them back on track. But the more time he spends with Kate, the harder he falls  . . and the more he yearns to prove that he's her true match in every way.

MY  REVIEW

OH MY! This starts out with a bank, then it just keeps going. Very enjoyable and if you don't find yourself giggling I just don't know what to say. Now I have to get the next two books in this series.

Banished by Linda Byler - Review of the first book in the Long Road Home series

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The first book in The Long Road Home trilogy,

a unique and gripping Amish romance set in

the south at the turn of the century.

It was the early 1900s when Obadiah (Oba) and Merriweather's (May's) parents died tragically, leaving them orphans at ten and eleven years old. When none of their nearby relations volunteer to take them in, they are set on a train to Arkansas to go live on their Amish aunt and uncle's cotton farm. Once there, it doesn't take long to discover they will be treated cruelly, no matter what they do. AS the years to by, May shoulders more and more responsibility and Oba becomes increasingly rebellious.

When May encounters Clinton, a young black may, on the road one day, she sees a kindness in his eyes that she's been thirsting for. He is immediately drawn to her, too, but quickly reminds her that he is black and she is white. In that  time and place, there is no chance of starting a friendship. But still, they find themselves meeting discretely, spending more time together than is proper, finding joy and solace in each other's company.

When things to from bad to unbearable at the farm, May realizes she must escape from her aunt and uncle. an she turn to Clinton for help?

MY  REVIEW

I just about didn't read this book, as much as I have enjoyed other books by Linda Byler, it starts out letting you know as you read that this is not a typical Amish story. I do realize there are bad things that go on in Amish families/communities, just like there are in the Englisch community, but you don't read, or hear, about it that much. I did finish the book with sadness in my heart but hope for the future. Unfortunately the next book does not come out until March of 2022, and I see no date for the third book, after all it does say this is the first book in the series trilogy. Yes, my daughter already has the second book on pre-order for me and her mother-in-law, we share books, lol.

 

Hope in the Mountain River by Misty M Beller - Review of the second book in the Call of the Rockies series

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This epic journey is not at all what she expected.

Joel Vargas can't believe he's lost his older brother in the wilds of the Rocky Mountains after surviving their harrowing voyage across the Atlantic. And he can't shake the feeling that Adam--his only living relative--is in dire trouble. No matter what the cost, he and his band of friends won't stop until Adam is found. He's not sure if two Indian women they meet on the way will be a help or hindrance.

After the devastating loss of  her daughter and husband to a grizzly attack, Elan is desperate to find an escape from her grief. As she and her friend journey from their Nez Perce camp, through the mountains and toward the great river, a band of white men is the las thing she expects to find, especially as winter blows in full force.

When the dangers increase, accomplishing Joel's mission becomes the only hope for all their survival. If the elements don't consume them, Elan has a feeling life will never be the same for any of them.

MY  REVIEW

This is yet another great story by Misty Beller, I have enjoyed every one of her books. She goes into such detail and make you feel like you are right there in the story. I also appreciate the fact that they are all clean stories and the faith her characters either have or gain.

Murder with OOlong Tea by Karen Rose Smith - Review of the sixth book in Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series

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In Pennsylvania's Amish country, Daisy Swanson finds

herself going back to school expecting to serve tea--only

to get a crash course in criminal justice . . .

The faculty of Willow Creek High School are having a get-together after the spring concert with refreshments provided, courtesy of Daisy's Tea Garden. Oolong tea and chocolate biscuits are just what the staff needs to help them unwind from Althea Higgins' demanding curriculum. Her lessons on such controversial subjects as school uniforms and underqualified substitute teachers are earning her an F from her colleagues.

But a failing grade was preferable to Althea falling victim to foul play. Daisy was there when her body was discovered in the school swimming pool, murdered by strangulation. Althea was certainly a strict, opinionated taskmaster, unliked by both teachers and students, but would any of them actually want to kill her? As Daisy starts asking questions, she gets a real education in Althea's history, discovering more that enough enemies with more than enough motives to cancel her classes permanently . . .

MY  REVIEW

I think we all had that ONE teacher, at least one, we just couldn't handle but had to. Do you think the other teachers maybe feel the same way and did that 'one' teacher have a past that was questionable? Interesting storyline!! This is the last book in the series for now, the seventh book will be out on 9-7-2021, although the audio came out yesterday.

My daughter has passed this series on to me to read and from here it goes to her mother-in-law. This has been a good series.

 

Murder with Clotted Cream by Karen Rose Smith - Review of the fifth book in Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series

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A catering job has come in for Daisy's Tea Garden

in Pennsylvania's Amish country--but death

will be served before dessert . . .

Margaret Vaughn has hired Daisy to provide afternoon tea for her theater group. A local girl who left long ago for an acting career in New York, Margaret has returned home00with a multimillionaire husband in tow. But while Daisy bustles around Margaret's historic farmhouse, she senses that there's tension behind the scenes. Then she discovers the hostess on the floor of the pantry--dead and covered with clotted cream.

Barely recovered from her previous sleuthing adventure, Daisy joins forces with the former detective she's been dating to help solve the case. Should she cast suspicion on the stars of the upcoming play? Can Margaret's sister shine a spotlight on potential culprits? Or are there clues to be found in the victim's past? With plenty of family stress of her own to deal with, all Daisy knows is she better act fast . . .

MY  REVIEW

As much as Daisy would like to stay away, is she able to? While waiting for a grandbaby to arrive can she handle the sleuthing at the same time? Yes, another good story in this series. The series will be better if you read in order but I don't think it's necessary either.

 

Murder with Cherry Tarts by Karen Rose Smith - Review of the fourth book in Daisy's Tea Mystery series

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In Pennsylvania's Amish country,

Daisy Swanson has a tea shop to run, a daughter

to marry off--and a murder to solve . . .

Daisy's worried one of her employees at Daisy's Tea Garden may be in a spot of trouble. Lately Karina's been loading up on soup and second-day baked goods at the end of her shift--and while the shop's scrumptious treats may be hard to resist, Daisy suspects there's more going on, especially since Karina has been seen hanging out in a rundown part of Willow Creek.

Planning her own daughter's wedding is enough to keep her busy, but Daisy can't help feeling a protective maternal instinct--and an instinct to investigate. It turns out Karina has been helping a down-on-his luck single dad who's been making ends meet--barely--by selling antiques at a place called Pirated Treasures.

But when an employee at the antiques store is bludgeoned to death with a marble rolling pin, Karina's new friend is suspect number one. Though the motives are muddy and steeped in intrigue, Daisy is more than determined to flush the real killer out.

MY  REVIEW

This cozy has a touching story along with the mystery. Another winner in this series. I hope you enjoy them as much as I am.

 

Murder with Cucumber Sandwiches by Karen Rose Smith - Review of the third book in Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series

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Daisy's Tea Garden in Pennsylvania's Amish country

is known fore its elegant finger foods--but now owner

Daisy Swanson has to finger a killer ...

Restaurant critic Derek Schumaker, notorious for his bitter reviews, is about to visit Daisy's Tea Garden, and Daisy and Aunt Iris simmering with anxiety. A bad word from the culinary curmudgeon could really hurt their business, but Daisy tries to stay confident. After all, how can he resist her cucumber sandwiches with pimento spread--not to mention the cheesy cauliflower soup and strawberry walnut salad?

Schumaker takes a to-go order when the afternoon tea service is done, which Daisy hopes is a good sign. But when he perishes from a seizure, it looks like his food was dosed with something deadly. Considering a threat that recently appeared on his blog--and whispers of scandal in his past--Daisy has quite an assortment of suspects to sift through . . .

MY  REVIEW

Another enjoyable cozy and some good sleuthing. I am enjoying this series and have already started the next book, "Murder with Cherry Tarts". I will say that Cherry Tarts sound better than Cucumber Sandwiches, lol. I like cucumbers but not on a sandwich.

Murder with Cinnamon Scones by Karen Rose Smith - Review of the second book in the Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series

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Daisy Swanson and her Aunt Iris run a delightful shop in

Pennsylvania's Amish Country with an emphasis on tasty

teas and treats--but murder is not so sweet...

AS local merchants unite to attract tourists for a much anticipated weekend quilting event, business is sure to spill over into eateries like Daisy's Tea Garden. Gorgeous craftwork is hanging everywhere--but among the quilts, potholders, and placemats, one gallery owner is wrapped up in some dangerous affairs...

Reese Masemer had been dating one of Daisy's employees, Tessa, an artist, though their last interaction was as strained as a cup of loose leaf tea. Now Reese has been found dead near a covered bridge where Tessa's been practicing her sketches. She's the obvious suspect, but Daisy's learning that there were some major secrets in Rees's background, and several of his relationships were infused with resentment. To save Tessa, she'll have to find out who's tainted this quaint little town with murder...

MY  REVIEW

This is a great cozy and the author does a great job of hiding the 'culprit' until the very end! Grab a copy and enjoy.

 

Freedom in the Mountain Wind by Misty M Beller - Review of the first book in the Call of the Rockies series

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(copied for Amazon.com)

The last epic journey before her life changes forever.

Susanna Wilkins will do anything to make her father's final dream come true, including trek along the path Lewis and Clark explored into the untamed wilds of the Rocky Mountains. Every mile is more crucial now that lung cancer is stealing Pa's last days faster than she can come to terms with losing him. The journey becomes harder than she ever expected, but paddling upriver through fierce rapids and fighting hungry grizzlies isn't what terrifies her the most.

Beaver Tail endured more than he can stand from the women in his Blackfoot camp, but the last disaster gave him the final shove he needed to join this band of brothers searching for one of their group who's gone missing. The last thing he expected was to find a white woman and her sick father stranded at the base of a massive waterfall. His plan is to help them carry their oversize canoe and supplies, then leave them to their strange mission. Yet, the more he learns about the pair, the more he realizes his life is about to be derailed--again.

MY  REVIEW

This is one of my favorite authors and she never fails to pull you into the story and keeps you wanting more. She writes nice clean stories and brings faith into each book. As I have said with all of her other books, this is a must read! If you haven't read any of her books I'm sure you will become a fan also.

Murder with Lemon Tea Cakes by Karen Rose Smith - Review of the first book in the Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series

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In an old Victorian in the heart of Pennsylvania's Amish country, Daisy Swanson and her aunt Iris serve soups, scones, and soothing teas to tourists and locals--but a murder in their garden has them in hot water ...

Daisy, a widowed mom of two teenagers, is used to feeling protective--so when Iris started dating the wealthy and not-quite-divorced Harvey Fitz, she worried ... especially after his bitter ex stormed in and caused a scene at the party Daisy's Tea Garden was catering. Then there was the gossip she overheard about Harvey's grown children being cut out of his will. Daisy didn't want her aunt to wind up with a broken heart--but she never expected Iris to wind up a suspect in Harvey's murder.

Now the apple bread and orange pekoe is on the back burner while the cops treat the shop like a crime scene--and Daisy hopes that Jonas Groft, a former detective from Philadelphia, can help her clear her aunt's name and bag the real killer before things boil over ...

MY  REVIEW

I think this is the first book I've read by this author and I really enjoyed it. She kept you guessing until the end.

The Timepiece by Beverly Lewis - Review

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Sylvia Miller has always held a special place in her Old Order family, one Adeline Pelham jeopardizes when she unexpectedly shows up in Hickory Hollow. Adeline's very existence is a reminder of the painful secret that has so recently upended the Miller household, making this a challenging time to welcome an Englisher--especially this Englisher--into their midst. Does Adeline's arrival mark one too many surprises for the Millers and their Amish community? Or can God bring something good out of the mistakes of the past?

MY  REVIEW

I want to say first that you 'should' read "The Tinderbox" before reading this book, no they have not listed these as a series but stand alone books. I feel they should at least let you know that it is a 'prequel' to this book. That is my opinion and I have read other reviews that feel the same way I do.

The story is very good and shows how, like us 'Englishers', the Amish can have different opinions and deal with them differently.

The Tinderbox by Beverly Lewis

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I've marveled at Dat's ability to accept the Old Ways so readily,  modern upbringing.

Mamma says it's like he was born to be Amish.

Maybe so, but all the same, I wished I knew something more about his past.

With her parents' twentieth anniversary approaching, eighteen-year-old Sylvia Miller finds her father's cherished brass tinderbox left unlocked. Against her better judgment, Sylvia opens the heirloom, not realizing that what she is about to discover will splinter apart her happy life and alter everything for her close-knit Old Order Amish family. As the long-kept secret emerges into the light of day, can the Millers find a way forward through the turmoil to a place of forgiveness?

MY  REVIEW

First off, yes I very much enjoyed the book, but, if you happen to have "The Timepiece" also or if you purchased that one and not this book, you really need to get, and read, "The Tinderbox" first. These are listed as novels but I would consider it a series to be read in order, as I'm starting "This Timepiece" as soon as I'm done with my review.

Beverly does her exceptional job of writing and keeping you interested, then WHAMO that last chapter throws you into needing that next book. I was lucky that my daughter got me both books for Mother's Day so I don't have to wait to get it. I'm also glad I looked to see when the books were published so I read this one first, there are only five months difference in publication dates.

This is a  must read if you enjoy Beverly's books, Amish stories and books of faith and forgiveness.

 

Lacy by Shanna Hatfield - Review of the fifth book in the Pendleton Petticoats series

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(Copied from Amazon.com)

Will the bonds of love be stronger than the bonds of tradition?

Eager to make her own way in the world, Lacy Williams leaves behind her family on the Umatilla Reservation and accepts a job in Pendleton at the telephone office as an operator. The work she takes in stride, but dealing with the unfamiliar, unsettling feelings stirred by the handsome banker across the street is an entirely different matter.

Grant Hill wants a wife.

However, not just any wife will do. If that were the case, he'd make an announcement at the mercantile and cause a stampede to the church. Grant wants a woman who will look beyond his material wealth and see into his heart. When he's all but given up on the possibility that such a woman exists, he runs into the lovely Lacy Williams.

The two of them must strive to discover if the bonds of love are stronger than the bonds of tradition in this sweet historical western romance.

MY  REVIEW

Yet another enjoyable story by Shanna Hatfield. This has been a great series with about down and out people turning their life in a positive direction, faith, and a lot of willingness to see the good in everyone and helping anyone who needs it. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series. Oh, and you really do need to read the series in order.

Marnie by Shanna Hatfield - Review of the fourth book in the Pendleton Petticoats series

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(copied from Amazon.com)

Only one man's love

Will redeem her past. . .

Condemned to a future of shame and regret, Marnie Jones battles to keep going one day at a time. Divested of hope, she's all but given up when a handsome stranger arrives in town. Desperate for the marshal to ride out of Pendleton, Marnie fears he'll rekindle the embers of her broken dreams into a roaring flame before he leaves.

Married to his career, US Marshal Lars Thorsen avoids relationships of any kind. Spending his days transporting prisoners, guarding political figures, and chasing down fugitives, he doesn't have room in his life for feelings or emotions. Especially not the tender, protective feelings stirred by the woman who wants him or the two orphans who need him.

MY REVIEW

It's been a while since I've read a book in this series and once I started this one I hated myself for waiting so long. I loved this series since the first book and none of them have failed to keep my interest. I hate to stop reading even for appointments or sleep, lol. 

I will say that you really should read this series in order and I don't think you will be disappointed. I only have five books left in the series, unless she writes more. Shanna Hatfield is an author that I follow diligently, yes, she's that good!

 

Courting Can Be Killer by Amanda Flower - Review of the second book in the Amish Matchmaker Mystery series

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Between minding a pair of rambunctious goats, meetings with her

quilting circle, and matchmaking, Millie Fisher has plenty to keep

her busy through her golden years. But the witty widow always

makes time to solve the odd murder . . .

Some Amish men don't know what's good for them. That's what Millie Fisher told herself when young Ben Baughman set his heart on marrying Tess Lieb. With Tess's father refusing to give his blessing and Tess's ex-boyfriend being a wet blanket, the hapless couple was bound to buttheads mroe than Millie's Boer Goats. But when Ben tragically dies in a mysterious fire, Millie wonders if someone in her hometown of Harvest, Ohio, wanted Ben out of the wedding picture altogether ...

With the help of her quilting buddies, and her outspoken Englischer friend Lois, Millie is determined to patch together all the clues without even dropping a stitch. She only hopes it won't be the death of her ...

MY  REVIEW

This one was hard to figure out, I kind of had an idea towards the end but wasn't positive. Just wait until you find out the truth and why the murder happened. Great job Amanda Flower. And now we have to wait until November 30, 2021 for the next mystery, WOW! Well I guess you don't want too many murder mysteries in Amish country so I'll give you that, give them some 'normal' time for a while, lol.

 

Matchmaking Can Be Murder by Amanda Flower - Review of the First book in the Amish Matchmaker Mystery series

 

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When widowed Millie Fisher moves back to her childhood home of Harvest, Ohio, she notices one thing right away--the young Amish are bungling their courtships and marrying the wrong people! A quiltmaker by trade, Millie has nevertheless stitched together a few lives in her time, with truly romantic results. Her first mission? Her own Niece, widowed gardener Edith Hochstetler, recently engaged to rude, greedy Zeke Miller. Anyone can see he's not right for such a gentle young woman--except Edith herself.

Pleased when she convinces the bride-to-be to leave her betrothed before the wedding, Millie is later panicked to find Zeke in Edith's greenhouse--as dead as a tulip in the middle of winter. To keep her niece out of prison--and to protect her own reputation--Millie will have to piece together a patchwork of clues to find a killer, before she becomes the next name on his list. . .

MY  REVIEW

This must have been a good book as I read it quickly and the author keeps you guessing until the very end who the real murderer is, and why! Now on to the next book in the series, "Courting Can Be Killer"! Grab a copy and enjoy.

A Welcome at Our Door by Amy Clipston - Review of the 4th book in An Amish Homestead Novel

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After a devastating loss, Cindy Riehl is still searching for peace.

Will she find it in the community she calls home--

or will love send her down a new path?

Over the last few years, Cindy Riehl--the youngest of the Riehl children--has watched her siblings find love and happiness in Lancaster County. But as her family has settled down and grown, Cindy has continued to grieve her mother, whose death left an enormous hole in her heart. Since that haunting day, Cindy has struggled to find peace and wonders if the community is the place for her--and if her faith in God will ever feel the same as it once did.

When a handsome and kind Englisher named Drew crosses Cindy's path one surprising day, the two of them become fast and easy friends. Drew dreams of starting a family after some losses of his own, and before long, he and Cindy discover that their feelings for each other are romantic. As they spend more time together--often in secret--Cindy is drawn further and further away from the Amish community and the family she loves. In time, she is faced with a difficult choice that threatens to upend her world.

Will Cindy find contentment and love, and will she ever find restored comfort in God and her beloved community? In this final installment of the Amish Homestead series, we return to the charming town of Bird0in0Hand for a story of healing family, and God's perfect provision.

MY REVIEW

The author pulls you right in to this story, starting with the loss of family she soon has you upset, then it goes back and forth from crying, to anger until you come to the very teary section. Be sure you have some tissues handy. What a way to end a series!!!

The Bartered Bride Romance Collection by Cathy Marie Hake, Kelly Eileen Hake, JoAnn A Grote, Amy Rognlie, Janelle Burnham Schneider, Lynette Sowell and Pamela Kaye Tracy

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(copied from Amazon.com)

Treasure this beautiful collection packed with all of the angst of romance founded upon practical arrangements. Four sisters travel in answer to an ad before even corresponding with potential husbands. Two women bend to the will of their parents in taking husbands. A widow commits to a stranger in name only. And two women on the Oregon Trail hitch their lives to men they've just met. Will love blossom for convenience sake?

MY  REVIEW

Nine very entertaining stories, four of them deal with sisters so it is kind of like a longer story but very good. I enjoyed this book very much.

Reasons to Run by Colleen Coble - Review of the second book in the Pelican Harbor series

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A LIE CHANGED HER WORLD.

Police Chief Jane Hardy is still reeling from the scandal that rocked her small-town department just as she took over for her retired father--the man who wrecked her life with one little lie. Now she's finally been reunited with her presumed-dead fifteen-year-old son, Will, and his father, documentarian Reid Dixon. 

A CRISIS LOOMS.

When a murder aboard the oil platform Zeus exposes an environmental terrorist's plot to flood Mobile Bay with crude oil, Jane and Reid must put their feelings for each other behind them and work together to prevent the rig from being sabotaged.

A KILLER TARGETS HER SON.

The the terrorist puts her son Will's life on the line. Protecting him could be the common ground they need . . . but then ghosts from the past threaten to ruin Jane and Reid for good.

SHE'S GOT PLENTY OF REASONS TO RUN. BUT WHAT IF SHE STAYS?

MY  REVIEW

OH MY GOODNESS!!! If you like a good mystery with lots of twists and turns, this is your book, you may even be surprised at who turns out to be the 'real' hero. I enjoyed the first book and am waiting for the third one to come out in April. This is a series you should read in order.

 

Jeb's Wife by Patricia Johns - Review

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Patricia Johns' sensitive storytelling brings depth and 

heart to this tender story of second chances, as an

Amish woman embarks on marriage with the 

gruff farmer next door...

Once, Leah Riehl prayed for a husband. The man she loved chose another, wanting the children that Leah can't provide. But she's found a measure of peace, keeping house for her brother, Simon, and teaching in a nearby town. Now though, Simon's debts to an Englisher gambling ring have left Leah with a desperate dilemma---and a surprising offer from her scarred, reclusive neighbor. Jebadiah King needs to marry in order to claim his family farm. A union, for appearances only, will help them both.

Jeb knows his scars make him a less than ideal husband, but he can be a useful one. It's the least that Leah deserves. But despite the promises he made to himself, Jeb can't help longing for his lively, warmhearted new wife. His first marriage brought heartbreak, but Leah's gentle smiles spark hope again. Are they willing to take the leap that love requires---and open themselves to all the challenges and joy a true marriage could bring?

MY  REVIEW

What an inspiring story! Two people who have been hurt by past relationships coming together to save a a mans life, can they make it work? Would you take less than perfect to save another, if so would you be able to life the rest of your life honoring the agreement you made in a hurry?

 

A Heart's Gift by Lena Nelson Dooley - Review of the first book in Love's Road Home series

 

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Is a marriage of convenience the answer?

"Franklin Vine has worked hard to build the ranch he inherited into one of the most successful in the majestic Colorado mountains. If only he had an heir to one day inherit the legacy he's building. But he was burned once in the worst way, and he doesn't plan to open his heart to another woman. Even if that means he'll eventually have to divide up his spread among the most loyal of his hired hands.

When Lorinda Sullivan is finally out from under the control of men who made all the decisions in her life, she promises herself she'll never allow a man to make choices for her again. But without a home in the midst of a hard Rocky Mountain winter, she has to do something to provide for her infant son.

A marriage of convenience seems like the perfect arrangement, yet the stakes quickly become much higher than either of them ever planned. When hearts become entangled, the increasing danger may change their lives forever.

MY  REVIEW

A good lesson about keeping secrets, promising things before thinking them out completely and then fretting about how to tell the truth. A story about inner turmoil and overcoming what the past has dealt you in life. WINNER!!

Faith's Mountain Home by Misty M Beller -Review the third book in the Hearts of Montana series

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(copied from Amazon.com)

Nate Long has always watched over his identical twin brother, Aaron, even when it  put him on the wrong side of the law. When Aaron is wounded in a shootout, the brothers are taken to Settler's Fort to recover. As Nate works to make reparations for their past, he marvels at the nursing Aaron receives under the care of a woman with all the reason in the world to resent him.

Laura Hannon knows what it is to start over, and she knows Nate's newfound faith is real. What she can't look past is how far he allowed himself to be led astray by his brother's weaknesses.

As a fledgling trust grows between Nate and Laura, they stumble upon a mysterious cave in the mountains that may not be as uninhabited as it seems. While working together to unravel the secrets surrounding the cave, will the new lives they seek for themselves include love, or does too much stand between them?

MY  REVIEW

A wonderful story that tells how you can turn a bad past around, if you let yourself change and not hang onto that past. Misty, I feel like I know her as I've read so many of her books and enjoy them so much, expresses fear, anger and forgiveness here. You should read this series in order.

Among the Fair Magnolias - Four Southern Love Stories by Tamera Alexander, Shelley Grant, Dorothy Love and Elizabeth Musser - Review

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During the most turbulent decade of our nation's history, four

Southern women---their destinies forged by birth and heritage---face

nearly impossible choices on their journeys in live . . . and in love.

To Mend a Dream by Tamera Alexander

Savannah Darby would do almost anything to revisit her family home. So when the new owner Aidan Bedford seeks to redecorate the house for his fiancee, Savannah jumps at the opportunity. But can she find the box her father supposedly hid there during the war before her assignment is completed? And before she sees yet another battle lost on the home front--this time, a battle of the heart.

An Outlaw's Heart by Shelley Gray

Seven years ago Russell Champion was betrayed by the two most important women in his life. Now Russell returns home, but is it too late to make amends with his mother and find closure with his true love?

A Heart So True by Dorothy Love

Abigail Clayton hopes to reconcile with Dr. Wade Bennett and become his wife. But her father insists she marry her distant cousin Charles Kittridge so the plantations of the two families will be joined. With her wedding looming, Abby must choose between duty to her family and the yearnings of her own heart.

Love Beyond Limits by Elizabeth Musser

Emily Derracott loves her childhood friend Thomas McGinnis, but she cannot marry a man who doesn't share her strong convictions about the freedmen. Besides, she harbors a secret love for someone else. But the prospect of becoming his wife is not only improbable--it is completely impossible.

Includes Recipes and Discussion Questions

MY  REVIEW

Four enlightening stories by four great authors. Lesson learned, be sure you know both sides of the story before you make permanent decisions that will affect the rest of your life.

Mrs. Mayberry Meets Her Match by Susan Paige Davis - Review

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(copied from Amazon.com)

Amelia Mayberry's rewarding career as a matchmaker is winding down. She'd like to close shop and spend her sunset years in peace. There's only one unfinished piece of business---an unsatisfied customer for whom she needs to set things right. Her late husband's friend wasn't happy with the potential bride Amelia sent his way, but she doesn't know why. The question is, will Lennox Bailey allow her to find him a new candidate?

MY  REVIEW

For a short story this was really good. I love the dedication Mrs. Mayberry has to make things right! Will she be able to accomplish the task to make her career 100% successful?

Dead-End Detective by Amanda Flower - Review of the first book in the Piper & Porter Mystery series from Hallmark Publishing

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THEY WERE THE TWO GIRLS DETECTIVE AGENCY.

NOW, ONE OF THEM IS DEAD,

AND THE OTHER IS SUSPECTED OF MURDER.

Darby Piper is in shock. Samantha Porter--her mentor and business partner at Two Girls Detective Agency--has died in a car crash, and it doesn't look like an accident. In fact, evidence is pointing toward Darby.

Darby had expected to inherit Samantha's half of the agency, but Samantha had recently changed the will to leave it to Tate Porter, her nephew, who returns to town.

Tate is on P.I. He's a veteran, a world traveler, and something of a mystery himself. But as he helps Darby delve into secret histories and real estate development plans, he does seem to have a knack for the job. Can Darby prove her innocence? And will the agency have a future?

This cozy mystery includes a free Hallmark original recipe for Berry Trifle.

MY  REVIEW

This is quite the story, not only is Darby a suspect, there are several others, although Darby is the prim suspect. The author kept me interested and made me want to hurry and find out who the culprit was. I did figure it out but wasn't real sure until the end.

I will say they need to do a better job of proofreading as there are many 'small' errors. You know kind of like when you type a comment and after you post it you see a typographical error, fix it, then find another error, lol. It was readable but does need to be proofread again.

 

When Secrets Strike by Marta Perry - Review of the second book in the Watcher in the Dark series

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IN LAUREL RIDGE, PENNSYLVANIA,

A COMMUNITY ONCE UNITED MUST SUSPECT ONE OF THEIR OWN

Amish quilter Sarah Bitler's dreams no longer feature a husband and family. Instead, she searches for success in the quilt shop within Blackburn House, a place once tarnished with deadly secrets. She refuses to let the past influence her future...until an ominous fire forces them to collide.

Firefighter Aaron King was the first to touch Sarah's heart--and the first to break it. Now a widower and father of two small girls, his return to Sarah's life brings her buried feelings to the surface. As a string of horrific incidents tears apart their community, an arsonist's wrath threatens to destroy them all. With Aaron as the only suspect, Sarah must follow her instincts to find the truth. But to protect an innocent man, she might risk her heart to Aaron again...and risk her life to an unknown killer.

MY  REVIEW

Another great mystery by Marta Perry. She keeps you guessing as the fires, and attacks, keep coming. Is it all one person, two or a group wanting to move in and take over a lot of the surrounding property? Hmmm, better get your copy so you can find out!!