Audible Book Review: At Love's Command, Hanger's Horsemen, Book 1, by Karen Witemeyer

This is a lovely, western, historical romance.
At Love's Command
By: Karen Witemeyer
Narrated by: Amy Rubinate

Series: Hanger's Horsemen, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 5 mins
Release date: 06-09-20
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Christian, Historical, Romance, Western
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.75; Narration 4.75.

Publisher's Summary
Haunted by the horrors of war, ex-cavalry officer Matthew Hanger leads a band of mercenaries known as Hanger's Horsemen who have become legends in 1890s Texas. 
They defend the innocent and obtain justice for the oppressed. But when a rustler's bullet leaves one of them at death's door, they're the ones in need of saving. Dr. Josephine Burkett is used to men taking one look at her skirts and discounting her medical skills. What she's not used to is having a man change his mind in a heartbeat and offer to assist her in surgery. Matthew Hanger's dedication to his friend during recovery earns Josephine's respect, and when she hears of her brother's abduction, he becomes her only hope for rescue.
Matt has stared down ruthless outlaws, betrayal, and injury, but when a bossy lady doctor crawls under his skin, his heart is tempted to surrender. And when she is caught in the crossfire, he may have to sacrifice everything - even his team - to save her.
©2020 Karen Witemeyer (P)2020 Recorded Books

Review:
Matthew Hanger is an ex-cavalry officer leading a mercenary group that battles evil in 1890s Texas. The band, known as Hanger’s Horsemen, is legendary as they seek out justice against the outlaws and defend the innocent and oppressed. Of course, that makes them the target of outlaws. One of the Horsemen has suffered a bullet wound so the team heads to the nearest town to seek out the doctor, where they are surprised to find a female doctor.

Dr. Josephine Burkett is used to men questioning her medical skills, but she knows she is the one who can help their injured companion. Matt, after momentary reluctance, agrees to assist Dr. Josephine in the surgery. Over several days of recovery, the team grows to respect Dr. Josephine even as she learns to respect the care and dedication of the men for each other and for the doing good to help others.

Shortly after the Horseman leave the Doctor, she opens a letter telling her that her brother is in the hands of outlaws and her father is refusing to pay the ransom. Dr. Josephine knows who she has to get to help her brother and she takes off to retrieve the Horseman.

The author has created wonderfully strong, caring characters who live with integrity. It is delightful to ‘watch’ these independent and confident individuals grow in their regard for each other. The other supporting characters, including one dubbed “Preacher” and a well-trained horse, are well developed also. I enjoyed the underlying faith and growth in God’s command over the situation. The story includes an issue of redemption which is nicely presented. The only reason I am not giving it a full five star rating is that some of the ‘heroics’ are rather over the top.

This is the fourth story I have enjoyed by Ms. Witemeyer and I plan to read more. I recommend this series and this author to readers who enjoy faith based, western historical romance.

Audio Notes: Amy Rubinate does a lovely job with the narration. She delivers clear and distinct voices with intonation fitting the scenes. The narration increased my enjoyment of the story.

12/18/2021 November Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Alphabet goals.

Audio Book Review: The Accidental Guardian by Mary Connealy

This is a lovely historical romance.
The Accidental Guardian
Written by Mary Connealy
Narrated by Morgan Hallett

Run time: 8 hours and 17 minutes
Release Date: April 3, 2018
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Christian, Historical, Romance, Western
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher Description
Trace Riley has been self-appointed guardian of the trail ever since his own wagon was attacked. When he finds the ruins of a wagon train, he offers shelter to survivor Deborah Harkness and the children she saved. Trace and Deborah grow close working to bring justice to the trail, but what will happen when the attackers return to silence the only witness?
When Trace Riley finds the smoldering ruins of a small wagon train, he recognizes the hand behind the attack as the same group who left him as sole survivor years ago. Living off the wilderness since then, he’d finally carved out a home and started a herd—while serving as a self-appointed guardian of the trail, driving off dangerous men. He’d hoped those days were over, but the latest attack shows he was wrong.
Deborah Harkness saved her younger sister and two toddlers during the attack and now finds herself at the mercy of her rescuer. Trace offers the only shelter for miles around and agrees to take them in until she can safely continue. His simple bachelor existence never anticipated kids and women in the picture, and their arrival is unsettling—yet enticing. Working to survive the winter and finally bring justice to the trail, Trace and Deborah find themselves drawn together—yet every day approaches the moment she’ll leave forever.

Review:
Deborah did all the work for her father on a community newspaper while he took all the credit. After her parents deaths, Deb is determined to set out on her own without being under the thumb of a man. Deb and her sister are helping a family take two toddlers west. The four are off in the bushes when the wagon train is attacked. The outlaws left behind arrows to look like an Indian attack, but no one knows that Deborah saw the men and can identify at least one by face and another by voice.

Trace survived as a young teen when his father was murdered during a wagon train attack. Since then, he has become a ghostly, self-appointed guardian of the trail, with his horse Black and his dog Wolf, trying to protect travelers from attacks. He comes across a recent attack that appears to be by the same men who killed his father years before. This triggers his urge to seek revenge by pursuing the men. That plan is delayed as he rescues the two young women and the toddlers and takes them to his cabin which is the only local shelter. Trace has rarely been around women. He and his ranch hands learn they like having the girls clean and cook for them, but Trace is still setting out to hunt down the killers.

Deborah plans to continue traveling west when the winter is over but in the meantime, she insists on going to town with Trace so she can report the truth of the attack and help identify the outlaws. Trace and Deborah don’t realize that their discussion of the outlaws is overheard by one of the men. Now they are targets.

Can Trace control his urge for vengeance and still keep the girls and children safe? Will Deb being able to change her mind about sharing life with a man?

I totally enjoyed this story. It isn’t perfect as it has some contrived situations. Still, I liked the distinct characters, the setting, the gentle faith, and the sweet romance. I like this author and need to read/listen to her stories more often. I recommend this to fans of sweet historical romance.

Audio Notes: I enjoyed the narration by Morgan Hallett. Although she doesn’t really do great male voices, I was able to tell who was talking and I could tell when she was reading an internal thought. I would be fine listening to more in the series narrated by Ms. Hallett.

Source: 5/3/2020 Chirp $4.99. This qualifies for 2022TBR and 2022Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: Jesus > Religion by Jefferson Bethke

This supports my view of Christ as primary, the church as secondary and religion not the important thing. The important thing is relationship - Love God, love people.
Jesus & Religion
by Jefferson Bethke

Run Time 4h 12min
Release Date: October 13, 2013
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Genre: Christian, Inspiration, Self-Growth
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall; Content 5.0; Narration 4.75.

Publisher Description
Abandon dead, dry, rule-keeping and embrace the promise of being truly known and deeply loved.
Jefferson Bethke burst into the cultural conversation in 2012 with a passionate, provocative poem titled “Why I Hate Religion, But Love Jesus.” The four-minute video of Bethke’s spoken-word performance literally became an overnight sensation, with seven million YouTube views in its first forty-eight hours (and 24+ million within a year). The message hit like a blizzard on social-media sites and in forwarded e-mails, triggering an avalanche.
In Jesus &; Religion, Bethke unpacks the stark contrasts that he drew in the poem-contrasts between teeth gritting and grace, law and love, performance and peace, despair and hope. With refreshing candor, he delves into the motivation behind his message, beginning with the unvarnished tale of his own plunge from the pinnacle of a works-based, fake-smile existence that sapped his strength and led him down a path of destructive behavior.
Bethke is quick to acknowledge that he’s not a pastor or theologian, but simply a regular, twenty-something, soul-starved searcher who cried out for a life greater than the one for which he had settled. Along his journey, Bethke discovered the real Jesus, who beckoned him beyond the props of false religion.

Review:
Author Bethke shares from his experiences growing up with religion and church but still struggling with sin and destructive behaviors. Like many people, he often viewed himself in comparison to others: he wasn’t a saint, but he was better than a murderer. He finally hit the “eureka” moment when he realized that no one is good enough to deserve grace. It doesn’t matter how religious one might be, we are unable to control our sinful natures. As Christ points out in the New Testament (Matthew 5:28) – if you think a sin in your mind (lusting after someone, coveting possessions), even if you don’t act on the thought, you have sinned in your heart. If we get what we deserve, no one would get grace.

Bethke came to realize that we need to proclaim Christianity as what Jesus has done for us… not what we do. When we pursue Jesus, who can be found in the scriptures, we will find that: “The Jesus of the scriptures is more radical and subversive than we realize.” At some point each person has to decide: either Jesus is who he says he is – God – or he is a liar. As Bethke notes: “Be careful when you pursue truth because you might just find Him [Jesus].”

I liked all of this journey that Bethke shared but a point I particularly like is in Chapter 9, “Religion points to a dim future, Jesus points to a bright future.” Often we think that only Christian things matter, not secular things. But reference Romans 8, Bethke makes the good point that all creation groans from sin. God created everything and cares about the earth, art and all jobs, even mundane ones. There is no true divide between secular and Christian. All of our world is God-created. We can still distinguish good from evil and we need to know the difference between praising God through the good and defaming him by the bad.

Bethke explains that there is a purpose for the church – to be a hospital for the sick; to train members to reach out to others with the message of Hope. But religion, as a group of routines and rules, often detracts from the relationship with God and people.

I highly recommend this to everyone. Christ followers will appreciate the truths of the distinction while seekers, and even atheists, may see what really matters beyond the hypocrisy of “religious” people.

Audio Notes: Jefferson Bethke narrates his own work and does a good job. His voice contains concern and energy that helped keep me engaged. I appreciated this work in audio.

Source: 05/30/2020 Chirp $3.99. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook, and 2021Alphabet Audio goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: A Cowboy for Keeps by Jody Hedlund

This is a lovely Christian, Historical Romance.
A Cowboy for Keeps
by Jody Hedlund

ASIN : B08CJB95HZ
Publisher : Bethany House Publishers (January 5, 2021)
File size : 9179 KB
Print length : 333 pages
Genre: American, Christian, Historical Romance, Western
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

Greta Nilsson's trip west to save her ailing little sister, Astrid, could not have gone more wrong. First, bandits hold up her stagecoach, stealing all her money. Then, upon arriving in Fairplay, Colorado, she learns the man she was betrothed to as a mail-order bride has died. Homeless, penniless, and jobless, Greta and her sister are worse off than when they started.

Wyatt McQuaid is struggling to get his new ranch up and running and is in town to purchase cattle when the mayor proposes the most unlikely of bargains. He'll invest in a herd of cattle for Wyatt's ranch if Wyatt agrees to help the town become more respectable by marrying and starting a family. And the mayor, who has promised to try to help Greta, has just the candidate in mind for Wyatt to marry.

Review:
Greta agreed to move west to Colorado as a mail order bride. She is willing to marry a stranger in hopes that the weather in the west will help her little sister, Astrid. A day away from her destination the stagecoach is robbed. Then she arrives to learn that her fiancé is believed to have died. The mayor in town, who wants more families in the community, decides that the best plan is to have Greta marry a local rancher, Wyatt.

Wyatt is struggling to make his ranch successful, and he has not thought about finding a wife and growing a family. He is competing with a brutal neighbor who is willing to kill Wyatt’s cattle rather than allow him to succeed. Wyatt wants the mayor to invest in the future of his ranch by financing the first herd of cattle. The mayor makes a deal agreeing to invest if Wyatt will marry Greta.

Both Greta and Wyatt come to the Judge with doubt and concerns, but they agree to get married. Greta manages to find ways to contribute to the household. But Wyatt worries about his cattle and Greta worries about Astrid’s health. As they face hostile neighbors and fragile health issues, they begin to find a mutual respect and attraction. Will they be able to move beyond their doubts to begin to trust each other and most importantly to trust God’s love and plan to prosper them?

Greta and Wyatt are wonderful and compelling characters. Greta showed sacrificial care for her sister which was lovely. Wyatt too showed a great caring for Greta and Astrid as did his friend and ranch hand, an older cowboy who became close friends with Astrid. The self-doubt that the characters struggle with is a realistic human flaw that allowed the author to show the depth of God’s love and grace in a gentle fashion. I found myself drawn into the story and eager to keep reading as I rooted for Greta and Wyatt. I recommend this to fans of Christian, historical romance.

Source: NetGalley 2020. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021NetGalley goals.

Audible Book Review: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

I enjoyed listening to this Christian Classic.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
The Chronicles of Narnia
By: C.S. Lewis
Narrated by: Michael York

Length: 4 hrs and 21 mins
Release date: 12-26-04
Publisher: HarperAudio
Genre: Children, Christian, Classic
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.75; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
Don't miss one of America's top 100 most-loved novels, selected by PBS's The Great American Read.
Four adventurous siblings - Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy Pevensie - step through a wardrobe door an into the land of Narnia, a land frozen in eternal winter and enslaved by the power of the White Witch. But when almost all hope is lost, the return of the Great Lion, Aslan, signals a great change...and a great sacrifice.
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is the second book in C. S. Lewis' classic fantasy series, which has been drawing readers and listeners of all ages into a magical land with unforgettable characters for over 60 years. This is a stand-alone listen, but if you would like to explore more of the Narnian realm, follow up with The Horse and His Boy, the third book in The Chronicles of Narnia.
Don't miss any of the books in C.S. Lewis' classic Chronicles of Narnia series.
©1950, 1978 C.S. Lewis Pte. Ltd (P)2000 HarperCollins Publishers, Inc.

Review:
This Christian tale tells the story of four children, two son and two daughters of Adam. They have been sent away from wartime London to a home of an old professor. There they stumble upon a wardrobe that leads them into a strange land frozen in eternal winter. Lucy is the first to find this strange world where she made a friend of a half fawn.

The other children don’t believe her and especially Edmund makes fun of her. Then he goes out and learns that the world is real. Edmund runs into the White Witch and she shares an enchanted treat to befriend him.

It takes some time but in a few weeks all the children go through the wardrobe. They learn the land is called Narnia and that the land and inhabitants are under the spell of the wicked White Witch. The other siblings make friends with a beaver family but Edmund sneaks away to find the White Witch.

The Beaver family explains that there is a prophesy that four children of Adam will save the land of Narnia. The White Witch plans to stop them by freezing them like she has other enemies, by allowing her wolf guards to kill them or by any other means necessary to keep her control.

The children have no idea how they can save the land but then the Great Lion, Aslan returns and brings hope. His breath and touch release the good animals who have been frozen. Each child has a role to play but Aslan will have to make a great sacrifice to save the children and Narnia.

I read this when I was younger and have watched the movie. It is a classic tale of good versus even and interestingly, this listen gave me a new insight to the Christian allegory. I was fully engaged and enchanted. If you have never read this, I encourage you to. If you read it as a child, take the effort to re-read and enjoy the message!

Audio Notes: The narration by Michael York is delightful. The quality of the audio is a bit lacking as it sounds older and has some volume inconsistencies. Still, I enjoyed the ability to listen to this precious work.

Source: 11/3/18 Audible Daily Deal $1.95. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook, and 2021Alphabet (Audio) goals.

Audio Book Review: Night Stalker by Shirlee McCoy

This is a suspenseful thriller with a second chance romance.
Night Stalker
Faith in the Face of Crime (FBI: Special Crimes Unit Book 1)
by Shirlee McCoy
Read by Emily Durante

Run Time 5h 37min
Release Date: May 7, 2019
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Genre: Christian, Mystery, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.0; Narration 4.25.

Night Stalker
Faith in the Face of Crime (FBI: Special Crimes Unit Book 1) by Shirlee McCoy
Read by Emily Durante
Run Time 5h 37min
After Special Agent Adam Whitfield’s ex-wife is nearly killed when she stops an abduction, the serial killer that Adam’s been hunting turns his focus on Charlotte Murray for getting in his way. Now, as the Night Stalker closes in, Adam has two missions: bring the murderer to justice and save Charlotte—because failure isn’t an option.

Review:
Charlotte and Adam separated after tragedy struck their family and grief overwhelmed their relationship. Charlotte lives quietly in their little lakeside home that is set away from the busier community. She has adjusted her life and has tried, not fully successfully, to convince herself that she has accepted her circumstance. One night her dog growls and she steps outside to investigate. She prevents an abduction but gets injured in the process. She wakes up in the hospital to find her ex-husband, Adam, hovering.

Since Adam left Whisper Lake, he has been involved with a special FBI unit pursuing a serial killer known as the Night Stalker. He was headed to investigate the abduction which fit the profile and MO of the Stalker, but he was told he couldn’t be part of the team as his ex-wife was involved. That only strengthened his reason to go even if he had to go on personal time.

Charlotte and Adam struggle with their painful past and their apparent incomplete relationship. Meanwhile, Charlotte’s elderly neighbor is barely saved from an attack and it is clear that the Stalker is now stalking Charlotte as a loose end witness. Can Adam capture the killer, keep Charlotte safe, and maybe win her back too?

The plot isn’t totally smooth as I had to wonder why the long illusive Stalker is suddenly making mistakes. It was easy to root for Charlotte and Adam even though there is emotional self-think which isn’t always my favorite to read. I was glad that the story moved along at a quick pace. I also like that the author includes a picture of underlying faith. The author shows that people of faith are not exempt from sorrow and struggle, but she also shows that God is faithful to guide the believer who seeks Him. I enjoyed this quick romantic suspense and recommend it to readers who enjoy the genre with a faith foundation.

Audio Notes: Emily Durante does a very nice job with the narration. The narration is clear and conveys the energy and emotions of the characters. I enjoyed the audio experience.

Source: 12/6/2020 Chirp purchase $3.99. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook and 2021Alphabet goals.

Book Review: Noah - Another Storm is Coming by E.G. White

This book speaks to the condition of man... and God's warnings as well as His gift of redemption.
Noah - Another Storm is Coming
by E. G. White

Publisher : Remnant Publications (January 1, 2014)
Paperback : 128 pages
ISBN-13 : 978-1629130170
Genre: Christian, Inspirational
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

A worldwide, catastrophic flood. It reshaped the face of the planet. It killed millions of animals. It ended the lives of countless men, women, and children. Why would anyone believe a God of love would punish the world like that? You’re not alone. Questions like this one have mystified honest, searching people for thousands of years. Skeptics discredit the event as a mere myth, proof that God is nothing more than a cruel tyrant invented by men, while believers struggle to harmonize the love of Jesus and this frightening Old Testament story. There is an answer that actually makes sense that will help you understand the mind of God when it comes to evil, sin, suffering, pain, and punishment. Table of Contents Part 1—The Real Story: “As in the Days of Noah . . .” 1. The Building of the Ark: The Flood—Part I 2. Destruction by Water: The Flood—Part II 3. The Rainbow Sign: After the Flood 4. Skepticism

Review:
I expected a timely prophesy from this book but received so much more. The author, Ellen G. White, lived from 1827 to 1915. This work is compiled from her original works, Patriarchs and Prophets, The Desire of Ages, and The Great Controversy. The message is timeless, and I have no doubt that the message was remarkable to those who got to hear it from the original works as it is to readers today.

This book is set out in three parts: Parts 1: The Real Story; “As in the Days of Noah…”’ Part 2: The Coming Storm: “As in the Days of Lot”; and Part 3 The Problem of Evil: “As On that Day…” Biblical scripture forms the basis for the thoughts and message shared. What struck me first, and at the end, was the way the author clearly portrays the fallen condition of man in the days of Noah…in her own time… and still today.

The event of the flood is a pivotal Faith foundation for believers. In ten generations from Adam’s expulsion from Paradise, mankind had forgotten to revere and fear the great Creator God. At very least they chose to ignore Him and at worst they deliberately chose to reject Him and disobey His commandments. Only Noah maintained a faithful relationship and followed God’s directives. His family was saved by their relationship under Noah’s spiritual leadership.

As I read the sections on Noah’s solitary obedience and warnings and on Lot’s escape from Sodom and Gomorrah, I had to wonder how I would have reacted. Noah must have seemed like a crazy person talking about rain that had never happened before. I hope I would have responded by the time the animals came two by two. And Lot had to struggle to get his own family out of the wicked cities. He couldn’t save his wife who looked back longingly on the worldly city rather than running away from the evils there. The third section discusses the fall of Lucifer and how the great beauty that God gifted him with fed his own envy then pride and arrogance fueled discontent, malice and hatred. His initial chafing and grumbling under God’s authority grew to justification of disobedience and ultimately full rebellion. “The same spirit that prompted rebellion in heaven still inspires rebellion on earth.” The time will come, and we need to be ready, when God will deliver judgment for the lawlessness of men.

The final chapters speak to the only hope to be found for the sins of men through redemption by faith in Jesus Christ. I found the description of that gift humbling and awesome. Then the book concludes with an amazing description of the glorious second coming of Christ and the new Jerusalem where the faithful redeemed get to dwell for eternity.

This short work renewed my awareness of the need to hold very lightly to the things of earth, and it stirred my heart to keep pressing into obedience to God’s righteousness. It isn’t an easy task with all the wealth and distractions around us, but it is worth the reward at the end. I recommend this to all people --- those who need to hear the message of salvation and those who have accepted but can find renewed vigor in the scriptural message.

“That the Maker of all worlds, the Arbiter of all destinies, should lay aside His glory and humiliate Himself from love to man will ever excite the wonder and adoration of the universe.” Page 120.

Source: My own bookshelf; gift from a church friend. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Alphabet goals.

Quote by the Author found online:

Talk unbelief, and you will have unbelief; but talk faith, and you will have faith. According to the seed sown will be the harvest.

Audio Book Review: Christmas in Sugarcreek: A Christmas Seasons of Sugarcreek Novel by Shelley Shepard Gray

This was sweet, Christian Christmas romance.

Christmas in Sugarcreek: A Christmas Seasons of Sugarcreek Novel
Written By: Shelley Shepard Gray
Narrated By: Robynn Rodriguez

Date: October 2011
Duration: 5 hours 53 minutes
Genre: Amish, Christian, Christmas, Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Summary:
The beloved characters Shelley Shepard Gray created for her bestselling Seasons of Sugarcreek series are back in Christmas in Sugarcreek—a heartwarming story of the magic of Christmastime and the blossoming of an unlikely love in a close-knit Amish community. Obedient daughter Judith Graber finds herself becoming uncomfortably enamored of the help her father has hired to assist in the store during the holidays: Ben Knox, as scandalous a bad boy as they come in staid and quiet Sugarcreek. Author of the immensely popular Sisters of the Heart novels, Shelley Shepard Gray is one of the true masters of Amish inspirational fiction, and Christmas in Sugarcreek is a delightful holiday treat for all lovers of Christian romance—especially fans of Beverly Lewis, Wanda Brunstetter, and Cindy Woodsmall.

Review:
Judith is a little surprised that her father has hired a young man who had a reputation as a ‘bad boy’ in their school days. She had wanted to be his friend but was too concerned about getting close to his unsavory reputation.

Ben finds Judith attractive and remembers her shy kindness in school. He has come back to town to sell his family’s home and then return to the city. He is glad to have work during his visit and finds himself enjoying the community life and especially the welcome he receives from Judith’s family. She is a little standoffish, but he is willing to try to cajole her to share more time with him.

As the young couple work and spend time together, they begin to share their history. Particularly Ben tries to explain his rough childhood that contributed to his acting out and never feeling accepted. Judith is drawn to Ben, but she is afraid to let her heart care for a man who will be leaving town as soon as his house sells.

The author also shares the stories of two other couples during the season. A young wife who wasn’t raised in the Amish community struggles to find the right gift to show her husband how much she cares and that she wants to be a proper wife. Another young man woos a young woman who is trying to hide her family troubles. These two stories added to the enjoyment of the seasonal cheer.

I have enjoyed this author before and enjoyed this story too. The characters have conflict and self doubt which I found annoying in light of what should be their faith foundations. Still, it provides a quick listen that is easy, light and fits the Christmas season of redemption, acceptance, sacrifice, and love. I recommend this to readers who enjoy clean, light romance.

Audio Notes: Robynn Rodriguez does a nice job with the narration. I didn’t get confused by the voices and the presentation was mostly smooth. There were a few moments where the sound seemed to fade but that may have been my earbuds failing. I did enjoy reading this by audio.

Source: 2019 Audiobooks.com sale $3.99. This qualifies for 2020TBR and 2020Audiobook goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: Wrapped Up in Christmas Joy by Janice Lynn

I enjoyed this sweet Christmas romance.
Wrapped Up in Christmas Joy
By: Janice Lynn
Narrated by: Alexander Cendese, Rachel L. Jacobs

Length: 8 hrs and 17 mins
Release date: 10-27-20
Publisher: Dreamscape Media, LLC
Genre: Christian, Christmas Romance, Holiday, Military Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
When Sophie Davis sorts through a box of donated books to her church, she’s surprised to find a soldier’s journal. As the daughter of a veteran who watched her father struggle over the years, she feels a deep connection to the man who wrote the emotional entries.
Former Marine Cole Aaron battled to find peace after returning to civilian life. He’s always needed to protect others. Now, fighting fires helps him put out the demons within him. He’s embracing his life in Pine Hill, Kentucky, and strives to call a truce with his past. When Sophie shows up at the fire hall with his journal from when he first returned stateside, Cole can’t believe it was in the box he’d donated. The book is old news, and he tells her to trash it.
Sophie and Cole are drawn together as they both volunteer for their community, but it’s hard for Cole to let down his guard, and he doesn’t need anyone’s pity. After all he’s been through in the past, can he find faith in a more hopeful future...one touched by joy?
This heartwarming romance includes an original Hallmark recipe for Dilly Duchess Potatoes.
©2020 Janice Lynn and Hallmark Publishing (P)2020 Dreamscape Media, LLC

Review:
Sophie Davis recognizes the struggle of a veteran with PTSD because she lived with a father who suffered. When Sophia finds and reads a soldier’s journal she feels deeply for the man. She makes the effort to return the journal to former Marine Cole Aaron who now serves her community as a firefighter. Cole doesn’t want the journal back because it his past haunts him. He also wants nothing to do with Sophie and what he perceives as her pity. Even though Cole wants to avoid Sophie, he keeps finding himself working alongside her for the Christmas toy drive and helping in other volunteer events, even participating in winter sports with Sophie.

Sophie is part owner of a Threaded Needle and she has a passion for making Quilts of Valor to award to Veterans in recognition of their service. Sophie persists on making a special patriotic quilt that she wants to wrap Cole in, even while Cole continues to push her away. But Cole can’t help but see the joy Sophie continually shares with others in all circumstances. Can Sophie’s joy bring a smile to Cole’s face and, more importantly, maybe bring peace to his troubled mind?

This is a sweet romance told from the rotating views of a bright heroine and an emotionally torn hero. The story focuses on the characters and how our self-view can be influenced by how others see us. The author uses the supporting characters to add to the fullness of the story. I like how the author shows how joy might heal a troubled soul. She apparently has other books in the same small town and I would enjoy reading/listening to others. This story reads easily, and I recommend it to readers who like heartwarming, sweet romance. I do think it would make a nice Hallmark movie.

Audio Notes: Alexander Cendese and Rachel L. Jacobs do an appropriate job narrating. I wasn’t enthralled by the audio but it did help me listen quickly. I am glad that I had the opportunity to listen to this.

Source: 2020 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2020NetGalley and 2020Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: Termination Dust by Alana Terry

This is a nice Christian romantic suspense.
Termination Dust: An Alaskan Refuge Christian Suspense Novel
Written by Alana Terry
Narrated by Becky Doughty

Release Date: May 23, 2019
Publisher: Firstfruits Publishing
Run time: 5 hours and 33 minutes
Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

How far would you go to protect the ones you love? After her mother’s death, Kimmie flees with her autistic brother to escape their violent stepfather. With nowhere to go, and nothing but faith in God to keep her going, Kimmie braves the icy Alaskan wilderness in this riveting listen.

Review:
Kimmie tried to convince her mother to leave her abusive husband. When her mother is found dead, presumably of suicide, Kimmie takes on the task of protecting her autistic brother. It isn’t easy to find the courage or means to break away but she is encouraged by contact from her older sister. Kimmie also gets sympathy from the young trooper, Taylor, who seems to be ready to give her support.

More secrets are revealed and her mother’s death begins to look like murder. Even though Kimmie wants to escape, it isn’t clear that she will be safe. She appreciates her sister’s help but isn’t willing to depend on her alone. Fortunately, Kimmie has a strong sense of faith to help her depend on God who can truly help.

This is the second book in the series I have read. The writing is light, easy, and quick reading/ listening. I find the female character a little less confident than I would like but it is probably all too fitting for the abusive home situation. There are danger and suspense in the story which moves along quickly. The romance is warm, sweet, and slow-building. The faith elements are provided through the character's life and do not come off as preachy. I recommend this series to fans of light Christian romantic suspense.

Audio Notes: Again, Becky Doughty does a nice job with the narration. It is clear and flows well even if it is not ‘full-bodied’ (i.e. full of distinct character voices). I liked being able to enjoy this quick listen.

First book: Identity Theft

Source: 12/7/2019 Chirp $.99. This qualifies for 2020TBR and 2020Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Rise of the Locusts: A Post-Apocalyptic Techno-Thriller (Cyber Armageddon, Book 1) by Mark Goodwin

This is a fast-paced post-apocalyptic story.

Rise of the Locusts: A Post-Apocalyptic Techno-Thriller (Cyber Armageddon, Book 1)
By: Mark Goodwin
Narrated by: Stacey Glemboski

Series: Cyber Armageddon, Book 1
Length: 6 hrs and 23 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 01-03-19
Language: English
Publisher: Goodwin America Corp.
Genre: Christian, Futuristic, Post-Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
Cyber Armageddon has come. America will not survive!
Cyber-security analyst Kate McCarthy knows something ominous is about to happen in the US banking system. She has a place to go if things get hectic, but it’s far from the perfect retreat.
When a new breed of computer virus takes down America’s financial network, chaos and violence erupt. Access to cash disappears and credit cards become worthless. Desperate consumers are left with no means to purchase food, fuel, and basic necessities. Society melts down instantly and the threat of starvation brings out the absolute worst humanity has to offer.
In the midst of the mayhem, Kate will face a post-apocalyptic nightmare that she never could have imagined. Her only reward for survival is to live another day in the gruesome new reality which has eradicated the world she once knew.
As with all works by Mark Goodwin, this book contains no profanity and no embarrassing sex scenes. However, if you're offended by conservative principles and references to Scripture, this book might not be for you.
©2018 Mark Goodwin (P)2018 Mark Goodwin.

Review:
Kate McCarthy works in cyber-security for a bank in Atlanta. The bank experiences a computer ‘glitch’ which requires a temporary shutdown. The bank officers are unhappy but trust Kate and her team to deal with the situation after she provides a detailed report of the risks and a plan to mitigate damage and find the breach. As the security team races against time to find the virus before it shuts down the bank, Kate begins to suspect that this is more than a simple virus. She believes there is a serious cyber threat that will shut down connectivity on a widespread, creating social chaos.

Kate convinces her brother to gather his wife and children to escape the city and seek shelter in their mountain cabin. They manage to escape the crowds but run into danger on the road that starts a trail of tragedy. The teens experience a range of emotions from confusion to fear to determination. Arriving at the cabin doesn’t assure safety especially when they discover their unproductive and noncontributing brother has already settled in with an unannounced guest. His thoughtless actions bring more trouble to their door. Things are going to get much more difficult while Kate and her family try to survive.

I have read other stories by Mark Goodwin and I believe he does a good job creating a realistic crisis and dangers. He develops characters of diverse natures who will have different but fitting reactions and growth. The story creates a bit of roller coaster tension as Kate and her family push from one danger to face another.

This is an easy and quick listen. I like that there is no foul language or sex. The author shares Christian faith, sometimes in an unusual way. I recommend this to fans of post-apocalyptic who, as noted in the blurb, don’t mind the conservative and Christian elements. I do plan to continue the series.

Audio Notes: Stacey Glemboski does a nice job with the narration. Although I am accustomed to some of the male sci-fi narrators, Glemboski delivers the emotions and intensity well from the view of the female protagonist. I enjoyed the audio and expect to listen as I continue the series.

Source: October 2019 Two for One Credit Audible Sale. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audio Book Review: Identity Theft by Alana Terry

This is a quick listen with good suspense and nice faith elements.

Identity Theft:
An Alaskan Refuge Christian Suspense Novel
Written by Alana Terry
Narrated by Becky Doughty

Release Date: May 2, 2019
Publisher: Firstfruits Publishing
Run time: 4 hours and 6 minutes
Unabridged Audiobook
Genre: Christian, Romance, Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

After losing her fiancé in a devastating accident, Lacy tries her best to move on in her small Alaska town. Rugged state trooper Kurtis and his four-year-old daughter help mend her heart — but can their new life together last when Lacy’s past comes back to haunt her? A riveting work of Christian suspense.

Review:
Lacy was a young college student when she witnessed the murder of her fiancé. She moved to a small town and has tried to move on. Lacy has formed a warm relationship with a local state trooper, Kurtis, and his young daughter. But Lacy just isn’t sure if she can take a step forward which would start with telling the secrets of her past to Kurtis. Lacy is thinking of making a move out of town, but Kurtis wants her to stay.

As she is trying to deal with her confusion, Lacy’s past makes a very unexpected appearance. This brings some joy but more confusion and new danger. How can she cope with her feelings and can she escape the dangers that are closing in?

I enjoyed the tone of this quick suspense. Although I like Lacy’s character, I was a little frustrated by her inability to resolve her uncertainties. Kurtis is a lovely resolute, male character. The story moves quickly and I enjoyed the suspense, the faith elements and the twist at the end. The romance is sweet and gentle. I recommend this as a quick read/listen to fans of Christian suspense and romance.

Audio Notes: Becky Doughty does an okay job with the narration. The voice adjustments are slight rather than clearly distinct character voices. The tone fits the story. I enjoyed the audio for the quick entertainment.

Source: 9/10/19 Chirp Audio Deal Purchase for $1.99. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, Once Upon a Dickens Christmas, Book 1, by Michelle Griep

This is a sort of haunted house Christmas Mystery/Romance which I read and enjoyed for Ladies Book Club.
12 Days at Bleakly Manor
Once Upon a Dickens Christmas, Book 1
By: Michelle Griep
Narrated by: Nan McNamara


Length: 5 hrs and 35 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 01-11-18
Language: English
Publisher: Oasis Audio
Genre: Christian, Historical Fiction, Mystery, Victorian
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
A mysterious invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home may bring danger...and love?
England, 1851: When Clara Chapman receives an intriguing invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home, she is hesitant yet feels compelled to attend - for if she remains the duration of the 12 day celebration, she is promised a sum of 1,000 pounds.
But is she walking into danger? It appears so, especially when she comes face to face with one of the other guests - her former fiancé, Benjamin Lane.
Imprisoned unjustly, Ben wants revenge on whoever stole his honor. When he's given the chance to gain his freedom, he jumps at it - and is faced with the anger of the woman he stood up at the altar. Brought together under mysterious circumstances, Clara and Ben discover that what they've been striving for isn't what ultimately matters.
What matters most is what Christmas is all about...love.
Pour a cup of tea and settle in for book 1 of the Once upon a Dickens Christmas series - -a pause-resisting Victorian-era holiday tale by Michelle Griep, a listener and critic favorite.
©2017 Shiloh Run Press (P)2017 Oasis Audio

Review:
Clara and Ben were separated on the morning they were to be wed. He was sent to the jail for theft and she was left jilted at the altar believing her fiancé’ had run off with the family fortune.
Clara is struggling out a meager living caring for her elderly aunt and wondering: “Why, God? Why?” She receives a strange invitation that promises her 500 pounds if she spends 12 days at Bleakly Manor. Although a strange request, and reluctant to leave her ailing aunt, Clara welcomes this one chance to restore her circumstance.

Ben believes Clara abandoned him during the rigged trial proceedings and wonders: “Why, God? Why?” When Ben is called to the warden’s office, he suspects that his time to be deported has come. Instead, he is given an invitation that promises his freedom if he stays at Bleakly Manor for 12 days without trying to escape.

As Clara and Ben arrive at the bleak manor house, they realize they are not the only guests invited. There are a handful of others and each person has been promised something unique to their circumstances but only one of the participants can gain the promise by staying the full time. At first, the manor seems warm, if dark, but as soon as everyone has arrived, most of the staff disappears leaving the group to fend for themselves without proper food or warmth.

Tensions are high between Clara and Ben who are shocked to see each other and even more startled when they finally agree to listen to what happened to each other. Soon tensions begin to rise among all of the guests as the conditions deteriorate starting the first morning with an alleged jewel theft. The police inspector guest claims he will investigate but his procedures leave a lot to be desired. Meanwhile, Ben is certain he feels “eye” watching from the halls.

This plot was great fun, reminding me of the Agatha Christie mystery “And Then There Were None” and making me think of the movies Clue or Murder by Death. It appears that I haven’t read enough Dickens recently enough to catch all of the connections to Dickens's characters and locations (Bleak House). Still, I had great fun following the mishaps that helped to eliminate the guests and the dilemmas that Clara and Ben had to face.

I have enjoyed several books by Michelle Griep and look forward to more! I recommend this to fans of Victorian and noir mystery, and clearly to any true Dickens fans.

Audio Notes: Nan McNamara’s narration drew me into the setting and kept me following the characters. I thoroughly enjoyed the audio presentation.

Source: December 2019 Audible Sale purchase $5.24. This qualifies for Ladies Book Club and 2019Audiobook goal.

#NetGalley Book Review: Strands of Truth by Colleen Coble

This is a good Christian Romantic Suspense.
Strands of Truth
by Colleen Coble

File Size: 5603 KB
Print Length: 337 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0718085884

Publisher: Thomas Nelson (September 10, 2019)
Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0.

Suspense, romance, and generational secrets meld in this engrossing new novel from USA TODAY bestselling author Colleen Coble.
Strands of Harper Taylor’s childhood are resurfacing—but will the truth save her . . . or pull her under?
Harper Taylor is used to being alone— after all, she grew up in one foster home after another. Oliver Jackson finally took her under his wing when she was a runaway teenager, and now Harper pours her marine biology knowledge into Oliver’s pen shell research. But she’s never stopped wishing for a family of her own.
So when a DNA test reveals a half-sister living just two hours away, Harper is both hopeful and nervous. Over warm cinnamon rolls, Harper and Annabelle find striking similarities in their stories. Is it just a coincidence that both their mothers died tragically, without revealing Harper and Annabelle’s father’s name?
Oliver’s son Ridge still sees Harper as a troubled teen even all these years later. But when Oliver is attacked, Ridge and Harper find themselves working together to uncover dangerous secrets that threaten to destroy them all. They must unravel her past before they can have any hope for the future.

Review:
Harper’s mother died when she was born, and Harper struggled in foster care. As a thieving fifteen-year-old, she was surprised when Oliver Jackson took her under his wing. His own children, Ridge and Willow were not happy about the attention their father gave to this wild child, not really recognizing all the gifts they took for granted. Oliver has remained Harper’s mentor and support as she pursues her marine research involving pen shells.

Now, aged 30. Harper is determined to have her own family so, with no boyfriend in sight, she is hoping to get pregnant by fertility implantation. Oliver isn’t thrilled by this decision but once again he is there to support her. He has tried to help her discover her biological father but with little success.

Harper has finally found a DNA match in Annabelle who appears to be an older sister. They had different mother’s and neither knows their father. As they begin to share their histories and the accidents that led to the deaths of their mothers, they become more determined to uncover the identity of their father.

However, they didn’t realize that their probing would bring trouble. Suddenly Oliver is attacked, then Harper. It isn’t clear what the motive is for the attacks, but Ridge is prepared to stand by and protect his father and Harper. The more time he spends with Harper, the more he realizes that she honestly cares for his father and wasn’t just out to get a free ride.

When Annabelle is kidnapped Harper and Ridge become even more concerned. They are joined by Annabelle’s sons, one of whom is a police officer, in searching the old files for any clues.

The story has plenty of personal conflict and tension, as well as a mystery with leads to keep them moving and asking questions. I liked both Harper and Ridge as characters and was glad when they began to work together. I enjoyed the mystery plot set in Florida and the interesting tidbits about the pen shells. I also liked the faith that gives a firm foundation to the main characters.

I have read several books by Colleen Coble and I enjoy her clean style, well-written suspense and romance and the faith elements in her writing. I recommend this to readers who enjoy romantic suspense.

Source: 2019 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2019NetGalley goal.

#NetGalley Book Review: May it Be So by Justin McRoberts and Scott Erickson

There are some wonderful quotes in this.

May It Be So Forty Days with the Lord's Prayer
by Justin McRoberts; Scott Erickson

File Size: 16573 KB
Print Length: 127 pages
Publisher: WaterBrook (September 24, 2019)
ASIN: B07MP54Q39
Genre: Christian, Devotional, Inspiration, Spiritual Meditations
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Combining prayers in two languages--words and images--this contemporary prayer guide will help you spend time in conversation with God.
As people of faith, we all struggle at times to sustain a flourishing prayer life--a loss felt all the more keenly in these times of confusion, political turbulence, and global calamity. This unique book offers a timeless solution for the spiritual and skeptical alike.
Combining story-driven reflections with visual and written prayers, this simple 40-day prayer guide will help you reconnect with God as you rediscover your own ongoing conversation with Him. Using the familiar refrains in the Lord's Prayer as a guide, this groundbreaking resource invites you to reconnect with God creatively and organically.

Review:
There are gems in this devotional based on The Lord’s Prayer.
There are forty prayers shared with sometimes a drawing, sometimes a story that gives wisdom and faith that serve to direct mediation. The authors describe the work as:

…a piece of art.
…an act of love.
…a redemptive tool.
…a resource.
…designed to stir, inform and inspire.
…it is not ‘content’.

The goal is to encourage an ongoing conversation between the reader and God.
I thought I would try to read this as a daily devotion, but that did not work well for me with the ebook format. I read it more in groupings each week. I did enjoy reading it this way.

I loved the story about the beaded bracelets and the children in India. Some of my favorite quotes are:

I am not alone. Neither are you.
The power in a gift is that it changes the recipient.
May the work it takes me to move forward never keep me from wanting to move.

I am likely to order this in print format for myself and copies to share as a gift to friends. I recommend it to others who want to meditate on a deeper meaning of The Lord’s Prayer.

Released: September 24, 2019; Source: 2019 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2019NetGalley goal.

#NetGalley Book Review: Yours Truly, Thomas by Rachel Fordham

This is a sweet historical romance.

Yours Truly, Thomas
by Rachel Fordham

File Size: 9546 KB
Print Length: 317 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0800736338
Publisher: Revell (July 2, 2019)
ASIN: B07NDMW5C9
Genre: Christian, Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0.

For three years, Penny Ercanbeck has been opening other people's mail. Dead ends are a reality for clerks at the Dead Letter Office. Still she dreams of something more--a bit of intrigue, a taste of romance, or at least a touch less loneliness. When a letter from a brokenhearted man to his one true love falls into her hands, Penny seizes this chance to do something heroic. It becomes her mission to place this lost letter into the hands of its intended recipient.
Thomas left his former life with no intention of ending up in Azure Springs, Iowa. He certainly didn't expect a happy ending after what he had done. All he wanted to do was run and never look back. In a moment of desperation, he began to write, never really expecting a reply.
When Penny's undertaking leads her to the intriguing man who touched her soul with his words, everything grows more complicated. She wants to find the rightful owner of the letter and yet she finds herself caring--perhaps too much--for the one who wrote it.

Review:
Penny was raised in a wealthy home with all the society frills until her father died and his investments were mishandled. Penny felt fortunate to get a job as a clerk in the Dead Letter Office to support herself and her frustrated mother. Penny still has dreams of romance and becomes involved when she reads a romantic letter from a brokenhearted man to Claire, the love he left behind. But the letters aren’t reaching Claire and Penny becomes determined to get them to the young woman.

After finding news about Claire, Penny decides to locate Thomas who wrote the letters. Penny has to choose to go along with her mother’s plans to move in with her uncle or to stay where she is and support herself. While deciding her future she takes a few weeks off to travel to Azure Springs and find Thomas.

Thomas was running when a wagon accident left him stranded in Azure Springs. He didn’t plan to stay but has found a warm welcome and is starting to think this is a place to change his life.

Penny and Thomas meet and begin to form a friendship in the warm community of Azure Springs. They are both hiding the secrets of what brought them to town, but circumstances still push them forward. Meanwhile, someone is sabotaging Thomas’ efforts to start a farm with attacks that are increasing in danger. Can they find the strength and courage to expose their hearts and move away from the past into the future?

I love the “dead letter” element of the story and how it leads the characters to meet. Penny is such a sweet caring soul who is more than willing to leave her society life behind. Thomas is a man who feels he has done wrong and he is not sure he deserves a new start. Christian themes gently underline the story without being preaching. The author sets up situations that can provide redemption and forgiveness if the characters can turn there.

This is my second visit to Azure Springs with Ms. Fordham, having read The Hope of Azure Springs this past spring. The stories read fine as standalones. I enjoyed the warm characters, the light humor, and the easy reading. I recommend this to readers who enjoy sweet historical romance.

Source: 2019 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2019NetGalley goal.

#NetGalley Book Review: Storm Rising by Ronie Kendig

I totally enjoyed this intense, complex suspense.
Storm Rising
by Ronie Kendig

Series: Book of the Wars (Book 1)
Hardcover: 386 pages
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (July 2, 2019)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0764234072
Genre: Christian, Mystery, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Mentioned in the pages of the Septuagint but lost to history, the Book of the Wars has resurfaced, and its pages hold secrets--and dangers--never before seen on earth.
Tasked with capturing the ancient text, former Navy SEAL Leif Metcalfe is finally given command of his own team. But their best efforts are ruined when a notorious Bulgarian operative known as "Viorica" snatches the volume right out from under them.
Iskra "Viorica" Todorova is determined to use the book to secure the thing that matters most--freedom. But a series of strange storms erupts around the globe and the coming dangers foretold in the text threaten crops, lives--entire nations. Though both are haunted by secrets of the past and neither trusts the other, Leif and Iskra must form an uneasy alliance to thwart impending disaster. However, the truth hidden in two-
thousand-year-old words could unleash the storm of their own destruction.

Review:
Navy SEAL Leif is trying to recoup from team losses and memory losses when he is put in charge of a new team, full of old friends. Each team member brings the best of covert skills to the mission which is to locate and retrieve the mysterious Book of Wars. The team isn’t the only one after the book as at least two other players are a step ahead.

Just as Leif closes in on the book it is snatched from his hands by a notorious female operative, known as Viorica. Viorica, who is Iskra, has been directed by her ‘master/handler’ to bring the book to him. She is determined to get the book to trade for her freedom and something more.

Leif knows he shouldn’t trust this ruthless woman, but he sees something deep in her eyes that draws out a protective streak. Iskra doesn’t trust anyone but herself. But as Leif and Iskra face off several times, she begins to wonder if she can trust him and his team to win her freedom. Neither is quite sure of their footing when they are forced together by outside circumstances.

There are strange storms interfering in the team’s actions and Iskra can shed some light on that. She also has more information about the book which she is reluctant to share. It is clear they have some joint enemies to face if they want to protect many from a devious attempt to control nations.

I really enjoy the complex characters and situations that Kendig creates. The characters are deep, intense and flawed. The other team members have relationship dynamics going on which are probably part of future stories. The situations are fast-paced and tense. I like that the intense action doesn't require any bad language. The plot has a Christian foundation involved with the Book of Wars and is gently reflected in comments of faith from some of the characters. The plot may include fictional missions, but it reveals interesting covert tools that make me wonder what tools are real and in use by governments and individuals (very wealthy individuals).

My only (repeated) complaint with Ms. Kendig’s work is she tends to use multiple names for her characters: first name, last name, and a nickname or code name. I haven’t figured out the pattern for use if there is one. Sometimes it causes me to pause to make sure I have the right person in the right situation. Other than that, I enjoy the suspense ride even when the story finishes at a point that leaves issues open for the next book. I recommend this to readers who like intense romantic suspense.

Source: 2019 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2019NetGalley goal.

Audible Book Review: The Remnant (Left Behind #10) by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B Jenkins

I was surprised how I jumped right into the story.

The Remnant
(Left Behind #10)
by Tim LaHaye
Narrated by: Jack Sondericker
Series: Left Behind [Abridged], Book 10
Length: 3 hrs and 12 mins
Abridged Audiobook
Release date: 02-05-15
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.
Genre: Christian, Inspirational, Religious Fiction
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

The Great Tribulation unfolds as the forces of evil and the armies of God prepare for mankind's ultimate battle. Millions of Christians are protected by God as the anger of the Antichrist, Nicolae Carpathia, burns against them.

Review:
The Remnant is the 10th book in the Left Behind series. The series begins with a handful of characters who are left behind when their loved ones disappear with many other Christians. That is when the star characters realize that the Godly messages they were told, but didn’t believe, were true. Many of them gather together establish the Tribulation Force to fight the coming lawlessness and rise of the antichrist.

The Remnant picks up right where the last book, Desecration, left off. The personable and powerful Antichrist, Carpathia, is gleefully about to eliminate the believers at Petra by dropping nuclear bombs on them. The Christian leaders, known as The Believers, are still involved in spreading the message of God’s salvation. They are prepared to die if that is what God has in store for them.

The antichrist team is unaware that there is a Christian spy in the New Babylon headquarters. This one man is able to coordinate aid to the believers who are spread around the world. His inside information may save the lives of many although even he can’t stop a bomb. But someone he knows can -- the supernatural hand of God.

It really has been years since I read the early books in the series. I was pleasantly surprised how quickly the characters and plot were brought back to my mind. I like the action that is a large part of the story. There were scene shifts, for example from Jordan to Chicago, which are only distinguished by the change in characters. I had to get used to recognizing those changes. This would be more difficult to follow for anyone not familiar with the series, but I would recommend this to those who have read the series.

Audio Notes: Jack Sondericker does a fine job with the narration. He provides distinct voices for the characters. This version was abridged and there were occasional moments in the presentation that seemed to jump from one scene to another which I suspect were portions of the longer story bypassed. That did not hurt the story for me. I was fine listening to the abridged audio.

Source: 2003 Audible. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: Sins of the Past: A Romantic Suspense Novella Collection

One of these was slow but they were all nice, easy listening.

Sins of the Past: A Romantic Suspense Novella Collection
Author Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey & Lynette Eason
Narrator Various Narrators

Runtime 10.17 Hrs. - Unabridged
Publisher Recorded Books
Downloads ZIP M4B MP3
Release Date June 24, 2016
Genre: Christian, Mystery, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Description
In this collection of gripping novellas from the top authors of Christian romantic suspense, sins of the past lead to danger in the present. In Dee Henderson's "Missing," a Wyoming sheriff is called to Chicago when his elderly mother gus missing. Paired with a savvy Chicago cop, the two realize her disappearance is no accident, and a race against the clock begins. Dani Pettrey returns to Alaska with "Shadowed," introducing readers to the parents of her beloved McKenna clan. Adventure, romance, and danger collide when a young fisherman nets the body of an open-water swimming competitor who may actually be a possible Russian defector. Lynette Eason's "Blackout" delivers the story of a woman once implicated in a robbery gone wrong. The loot has never been found--but her memory of that night has always been unreliable. Can she remember enough to find her way to safety when the true culprit comes after her?

Review:
"Missing" by Dee Henderson: John, a Wyoming sheriff, is called to Chicago when his elderly mother goes missing from her elder home complex. He is met by Sharon Noble, a savvy Chicago Lieutenant who is already organizing the search. John has a past with criminals as a former Chicago cop and there are several avenues to look at for suspects.

I liked the premise of this plot, the two characters and the clear friendship that grows as they work together. There are good clues in the short story that might let a keen reader figure out the twist. The drawback on this was the very slow beginning. I listened to the first hour and a half during a drive with others and none of us were particularly engaged at that point. Fortunately, I pushed through to listen to the rest as I did enjoy the final package. My rating: 3.75.

“Shadowed” by Dani Pettrey: Competitive swimmer, Libby, is in Alaska and plans to enjoy some tourism. She is the only one to show up early on a rainy morning for a whale watching tour. Ben the tour guide (and more) is impressed by Libby’s spunk and determination. He agrees to take her out. In addition to seeing whales they discover something else in the water. When they pull the body on board, Libby is shocked to recognize her number one competitor, a Russian swimmer.

Libby’s competitive schedule hasn’t allowed her to develop relationships and she wasn’t looking for one this trip. But Ben’s competence and gently protective tendencies draw her in. Ben knew at some point he might decide to settle down, but he had never met the right woman until now. The relationship builds between them even as they are dodging a killer as they try to unravel the truth about spies and counterspies.

This story was engaging and an easy listen as it raced quickly through discovery, danger and deception. My rating: 4.25.

“Blackout” by Lynette Eason: Macey has had blackouts for the past six years since she survived a robbery where she was in the wrong place at the wrong time and she was almost killed. She hides her past because the connections don’t look good. Now, as someone is stalking and frightening her, more memories are returning.

Macey’s neighbor Chad is a police detective. He knows that Macey has kept him at arm’s length, but he rushes in when he hears her scream. She isn’t imagining things. Macey’s high school crush, who was involved in the robbery, has returned and it appears he is pressuring her to remember. But someone else doesn’t want her to remember what happened that night, and is prepared to kill Macey to stop her. Macey begins to open up and rely more on Chad as the threat escalates.

This story presents tension from the beginning. I wasn’t overly impressed with Macey as a character, but Chad is a strong, attractive hero. The story moves along well although it seems a little rushed. 4.0.

The collection provides three easy, satisfactory listens. The faith of characters is shared without being preachy or overbearing. I recommend this to readers who enjoy clean romantic suspense. 4.0.

Audio Notes: The narrators were Graham Winton, Christina Moore, and Therese Plummer in that order. All three did a good job with the narration. Winton is the only new narrator to me as I have enjoyed audios narrated by Moore and Plummer before. The narration made this an easier ’read’ for me.

Source: July 2017 Christianaudio Sale. This qualifies for my 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Book Review: Blackout (A Riley Covington Thriller Book 3) by Jason Elam and Steve Yohn

This is a fast-paced Christian suspense thriller.
Blackout (A Riley Covington Thriller Book 3)
by Jason Elam and Steve Yohn

Series: A Riley Covington Thriller (Book 3)
Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (January 1, 2010)
ISBN-13: 978-1414331720
Genre: Christian, Suspense Thriller
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Riley Covington is still reeling from his father’s brutal murder when he learns he’s been traded. Meanwhile, the counterterrorism division has detected a plot to detonate electromagnetic pulse bombs that could leave the U.S. without power, communications, and transportation—right down to dropping planes out of the sky. CTD scrambles to stop the attacks, but they run out of time. Amid the fallout, Riley, Scott, Skeeter, and CTD must regroup to make sure the second bomb doesn’t reach its destination.

Review:
Riley is a professional linebacker and a young man who served a tour of duty in Afghanistan. Then he became a hero fighting a terrorist threat on his own turf in American with his special ops team. (Book 1: Monday Night.) The team dealt with a second wave of terrorists that strike directly at Riley and his loved ones. (Book Two: Blown Coverage.) Riley is surprised and confused when he is traded from his beloved Colorado team to a team in Washington, D.C.

Before Riley can even get settled in with the new team he is injured. That doesn’t stop his new bosses from using him for promotional purposes. The situation also intrigues a female friend from back home who sees Riley as a way to journalistic stardom. She is prepared to push her career forward even if it exposes Riley’s covert operations.

Once again Riley’s football career is interrupted as he is drawn back into the special ops team to help track down terrorists who have stolen nuclear weapons. Riley and his team have previously briefed the Whitehouse on the dangers on an EMP strike. Now that threat seems imminent if Riley and the other warriors don’t stop the terrorists.

This is a fast-paced thriller with danger and consequences resulting from an EMP strike over a major city. I enjoyed meeting the team Riley works with, including his personal security guard, his superior, the geeky, genius computer tech “Gooey”, the doctor, Khadi, and others. Khadi holds Riley’s interest, but he has to keep his distance because he is a strong Christian and she is not a believer. This creates conflicts and problems they both are aware of. There are other Christian friends from Riley’s Colorado football team who end up with challenges of their own during this adventure (or misadventure) as they find themselves in the city after all power goes out.

I had a little trouble sorting through the characters at first and this might not have been a problem if I had read books 1 and 2. Still, most of my ladies book club really enjoyed this and a couple will get the other books. I picked up the boxed set so I could go back if I wanted and have book four too. I recommend this to reader’s who like action packed Christian Thrillers. You might want to start with book 1.

Source: Print 2017 for Ladies Book Club; I picked up the boxed set on Kindle 2019.  I’m going to count this towards 2019TBR goal.