I usually avoid books with a medical based storyline, but this is Charles Martin! How could I pass this book by? I am so glad that I didn't. The beautiful language in this book is a key reason for not missing out on When Crickets Cry. The intriguing storyline is another reason. It moves between the main character's earlier years and his present day circumstances, allowing readers to understand the decisions that led him to live the life he is currently living, a life that has seemingly lost purpose and meaning. The story explores the theme of hope, its perseverance in lives where one might see little reason for its continued presence, and its resurgence when it would appear all hope is lost. The heart in this story is viewed not only as an organ that gives the body life, but also as a spiritual organ that impacts how one lives the life they've been given. There are many lessons here for one whose heart is inclined to listen.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of When Crickets Cry from Thomas Nelson without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Network of Deceit by Tom Threadgill

  

I ordered this book because I thought my husband would enjoy it, which he did, but it was a while before I got around to reading it. I am so glad I finally did! Network of Deceit has a fresh plot line involving bitcoin and cybercriminals. Almara Alvarez has a lot to juggle as she works to solve her first case after joining the homicide unit of the San Antonio Police Department and deals with her mother's health diagnosis. Threadgill handles the medical element of the story tactfully yet honestly while not allowing the story to be dominated by anxious emotions.

I enjoyed Network of Deceit very much and will be on the lookout for other books by this author, as I am sure my husband will be as well.

The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel - A Book Review

  

Kristen Harmel evokes a wide variety of emotions from the sorrows and suffering of war; the pain of loss and betrayal; the weight of grief and regret; to the delight and relief of finding forgiveness, love, and personal connection. Almost ninety looks very good on Colette Marceau, with her family lost to her in the war, and only two close friends, Colette still dabbles in the family business as a jewel thief and, as a descendant of Robin Hood, stealing from the rich to give to the poor. She does not, however, target anyone who has not done something to, in her opinion, deserve being relieved of their jewels. Even the best intentions can become tangled up leading to unintended and undeserved circumstances. Colette must come to terms with the people and years that were stolen from her, as well as the moments and opportunities she relinquished on her own.

This book is itself a jewel with its sparkling moments and valuable insights. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau from Simon & Schuster via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

The Codebreaker's Daughter by Amy Lynn Green

  

I have always enjoyed Amy Lynn Green's books, but The Codebreaker's Daughter is by far my favorite. This dual timeline novel tells the story of Lillian Kendall's life and her work as a codebreaker in WWI; and the life of her daughter, Dinah, who was trying to serve her country in her own way during WWII. The true historical characters are well-portrayed alongside their fictional counterparts. The themes of mental health and overcoming insecurities are developed as we come to know the characters better and as the intrigue intensifies. Determining whom to trust while working in intelligence and special operations is not an easy task. Ulterior motives abound, even where least anticipated.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of The Codebreaker's Daughter from Bethany House via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own. 

Capturing You by Robin Patchen - A Book Review

  

It always feels like Christmas or my birthday when Robin Patchen has a new release. Enjoying that anticipation of opening up one of her new books, digital or hardcopy, is like peeling back the wrapping paper on a gift. Surprises are always in store. The themes woven throughout the story are a treasure to hold onto. In the case of Capturing You, the theme of God's goodness and presence being with us even when not readily apparent will have readers recalling or realizing how in hindsight they were visible in their personal lives. The intensity of the suspense element of this story will compel readers to set aside the mundane, at least temporarily, for a bit of excitement coupled with expectation and surprising twists. The sweet romance compliments the story without taking over. As an added gift, a bonus epilogue is available on-line.

I highly recommend Capturing You and the series The Wright Heroes of Maine, of which it is the sixth installment. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy from the author without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Where Secrets Lie by Colleen Coble and Rick Acker - A Book Review

  

Colleen Coble and Rick Acker are a dynamic duo as a writing team. Each time I read a new book in their Tupelo Grove series, I am unsure how they could ever top it, and then they do! Where Secrets Lie is an amazing piece of romantic suspense, but if you haven't read the first two books, please do yourself a favor and begin at the beginning. Each story, and most especially this latest release, has multiple storylines that intersect. The plot is most definitely not predictable, which fascinates me. The characters are realistic with weaknesses and past sorrows that work to assert themselves when least welcomed. They are also prone to seeking hope even when it seems blocked at every turn, something that would benefit us all.

The writing in Where Secrets Lie is crisp and focused. It evokes strong emotions of many kinds. The authors' voices consistently meld forming a harmony that creates a strong, singular voice. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

  

Of Silver and Secrets by Michelle Griep - A Book Review

  

For a young woman to inherit and run an estate in an English village in 1889 was not common, but such was Eva Inman's life. In addition to the failing estate, Eva's blind, twelve-year-old sister depended upon her. Might aid come from a totally unexpected source? Michelle Griep, as usual,does a wonderful job in character development. Without lengthy explanations, Griep peels away layers to reveal her characters' insecurities and motivations. As this story builds, we see God's provision occur in ways no one could have predicted.

I very much enjoyed immersing myself in another of Griep's historical stories of intrigue. Of Silver and Secrets has numerous possibilities to fill the role of bad guy. She will keep readers guessing until the end. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.