Stories That Bind Us

Betty Sweet is still recovering from the loss of her husband when she becomes the temporary guardian of a five-year-old nephew she never knew she had. As they struggle to move forward, they build a relationship upon the foundation of storytelling and its special kind of magic.

My Rating: 5 Stars
This was such a sweet story, with a lyrical voice to it. This was my first Susie read and I can guarantee it will not be my last. This story has a lot of things I loved about it, from the lyrical sense of the story, to the subtle wisdom peppered throughout to the Sweet family. I need more stories with this family! This was a quick read and it just has something that sets it apart from most of the books I read. I can't quite put my finger on it, whether it's Susie's storytelling style or the fact the story line offers a little "something different" or a combination of several factors. I just know I loved this story. Excited to read more of Susie's stories!

I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey

When the widowed Lord Torrington agreed to spy for the crown, he never planned to impersonate a highwayman, let alone rob the wrong carriage. Stranded on the road with an unconscious young woman, he is forced to propose marriage to protect his identity, as well as his dangerous mission.

Trapped by not only the duty to her country but her limited options, Miss Elizabeth Cantrell and her illegitimate son are whisked away to Middlecrest Abbey by none other than the elder brother of her son’s absent father. She is met by Torrington’s beautiful grown daughters, a vicious murderer, and an urgent hunt for the missing intelligence that could turn the war with France. Afraid of what Lord Torrington might do if he learns of her son’s true identity, Elizabeth must remain one step ahead of her fragile heart, her uncertain future, and the relentless mystery person bent on her new family’s ruin. 

My Rating: 5 Stars

This was a FANTASTIC mystery! I could not read it fast enough to see how everything fit together and who the bad guys were. I really enjoyed the characters of Elizabeth and Lord Torrington and the ways they worked together to solve the mystery. I loved the way Torrington included Elizabeth in everything rather than shutting her out simply because she was a woman. This was such a fun read and I highly recommend it.

I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

At Love's Command

Ex-cavalry officer Matthew Hanger leads a band of mercenaries who defend the innocent, but when a rustler's bullet leaves one of them at death's door, they seek out help from Dr. Josephine Burkett. When Josephine's brother is abducted and she is caught in the crossfire, Matthew may have to sacrifice everything--even his team--to save her.

My Rating: 5 Stars
Oh my, what a hero Matthew is! He was such a fun character to meet and his love for his Josie was so fun to read and swoon at. This book has a ton of excitement and kept me on my toes wondering what would happen next. I think this story has a bit more danger than Karen's previous stories and it was hard to put down when life intruded(which it did far to much!). I can not wait to see all of Hanger's Horsemen get their happy endings!! The next story can't come soon enough to suit me! 


I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own. 

The Englisch Daughter

A marriage is tested in this Old Order Amish novel of longing for renewed love and a path for forgiveness from the best-selling author of Gathering the Threads .

Old Order Amish wife and mother Jemima has put her marriage and family ahead of herself for years. She's set herself aside. Raising four children, she's followed all the rules and has been patient in looking forward to her time to chase a dream of her own.

But when she finds out that her life savings for pursuing that dream is gone--and her husband, Roy, has been hiding a child with another woman--her entire world is shattered. Will she be able to listen to God and love Roy's child? With so much at stake, how can she and Roy fix their relationship before their lives come crashing down?


My Rating: 5 Stars

This story surprised me by how much I loved it! I am not a huge Amish fan overall, but this story intrigued me enough to sign up for a review copy. I am so glad I did. This story hooked me early on and I could NOT put it down. The characters were great and had me rooting for them from the beginning. Honestly, I want more of these characters!! This is a favorite read of 2020 for sure.

I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

Justice Undercover

Keeping her true identity a secret

is the only way to stay alive.

Going undercover as a nanny brings presumed-dead ex--US Marshal Kylie Stone closer to catching the man who murdered the witness in her protection--and also killed Texas Ranger Luke Dryden's sister. When someone tries to kidnap the twins in her care, Kylie must tell their uncle the truth...and convince Luke to help her. But will revealing her identity put all their lives at stake?


My Rating: 4 Stars

This was a fantastic debut for Connie. I really enjoyed the mystery of this book and Kylie's unique backstory. The story moved really well and there were several surprises along the way especially at the end. I will be looking for more of Connie's books for sure!! I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own honest opinion.