Legends of Gold (Golden State Treasure) by Mary [Review & Giveaway]

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On a risky treasure hunt in the rugged wilderness, can love trump all odds?

My thoughts:  As with other books by this author, the story is a light-hearted read with a sprinkling of heart-warming wit. The characters are fleshed out and fill their roles complimenting both the story line and the other characters. An assortment of strong, defending, and willing men on the ranch as well as gifted and strong women blend beautifully; and these strong characters keep the trouble makers at bay.

The troublesome issue of orphaned children prevalent during that period of history continues to flow through this series. Many of these orphans have found a home and shelter on the Hart Ranch. And as begun in the first book in the series, Whispers of Fortune, the search for treasure continues.

In Legends of Gold a bit of real California history going back to the exploration by Spanish Conquistadors is woven into the story line. I found that interesting.

Books by Mary Connealy always satisfy and are enjoyable. Part of this is the trust factor - they are squeaky clean, faith-based (but not preachy), and sometimes elicit a chuckle.

Don't miss this one.

About the book: After years of solitude, Tilda Muirhead's life takes an unexpected twist when she accepts a teaching position at Two Harts Ranch following her cross-country pursuit of two brothers obsessed with a treasure map left by their grandfather. Tilda is now tasked with educating those mischievous MacKenzie boys, who are bent on remaining out west with the rest of their family until they find the hoped-for treasure. Then a man named Ben arrives, claiming to be her own long-lost brother. Raised as an orphan with no memory of her past, Tilda is both fascinated and wary of Ben's sudden interest in finding her.

When Ben's motives grow increasingly suspect, rancher Josh Hart suggests Tilda and the young MacKenzies set off on a quest with him that aims to protect Tilda while unearthing the map's secrets. Secret word: gold - As they explore the wilderness, Tilda becomes captivated by the history behind the map, though she doubts it leads to anything more than old artifacts. Yet danger looms ever closer, and Tilda and Josh must rely on faith and their blossoming love to navigate the treacherous path ahead.

Watch for Chat With Vera's review, soon!

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided by author or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. #MaryConnealy #LegendsOfGold #BethanyHouse 

Shattered Sanctuary (The Erin Delaney Mysteries #1) by Nancy Mehl [Giveaway]

A Christian Mystery & Suspense Novel with Action & Clean Romance

Was this the last thing she'd ever see? Would she be able to make things right before it was too late?

"God . . ." was all she got out before he lunged toward her.

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Grappling with the aftermath of a tragic incident that altered her life, ex-police officer and bestselling mystery author Erin Delaney finds solace in the tranquility of a cabin nestled deep in the Smoky Mountains. But her restful stay is shattered when cries pierce the night, hinting at a lurking presence haunting the woods. When local police chief Adrian Nightengale seeks her help with a carefully arranged murder scene, she is thrust back into the world of crime solving. As they delve into the investigation, Erin's intuition reveals chilling truths about the killer's motives and strategically perfected methods. Secret word: shattered

Joined by the enigmatic Kaely Quinn-Hunter, a former FBI behavioral analyst, Erin not only embarks on a quest to stop the merciless serial killer, but also confronts the revived ghosts of her past. In a race against time, Erin must defeat her own demons while outmaneuvering a cunning killer or risk becoming the next victim in this deadly game of cat and mouse.

Shattered Sanctuary is a clean, Christian, thrilling suspense novel set in the Smoky Mountains, full of police investigations, haunted woods, eerie threats, and ominous evidence. For fans of high-stakes suspense, Lynette Eason, and Elizabeth Goddard.

Vera's Review: In this the first of the Erin Delaney Mystery Series, we again meet profiler Kaley whose story was told in Nancy Mehl's previous enthralling "Kaley Quinn Series." Her profiler experiences have given direction and authority to former police woman, Erin Delaney, who whilst on PSTD leave wrote a highly successful book. Their work together has brought them to friendship, and this friendship has led to Kaley's counseling Erin during this difficult time.

They've decided to spend a week together in retreat in the beautiful Smokey Mountains of Tennessee. A bit off season, it has turned cold and a major snow storm is predicted. As they begin their, hopefully, restful week, a body is discovered near their isolated cabin.

As we meet the town of Sanctuary's residents and as we become privy to conversations between Erin and Kaley, we find individuals just like the personages in your own hometown. 

Erin is a non-believer and a troubled soul beset with remorse and guilt. Kaley is a strong Christian and she shares her faith but isn't pushy. She only desires that Erin find peace of soul and mind.

Who is the culprit? Who amongst the nice folks they've met might be the guilty person? Or is it someone else?

Nancy Mehl has started us off on another series that promises tangled webs and believable characters.

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize book is provided and mailed directly to the winner by author, publicist, or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

WHISPERS OF FORTUNE (Golden State Treasure #1) by Mary Connealy [Review]

My thoughts:  I always delight when a new "Mary Connealy" book comes off the press. Her books are set in the mid to far west of the United States during the early years the area was being settled. Connealy has a terrific sense of infusing her stories with light-hearted wit that brightens the reader's day. 

In the first book of the "Golden State Treasure" series, Whispers of Fortune recounts the heart breaking stories prevalent of the period when back East families fell into the throes of poverty, children orphaned and sent West by orphanages to settle with other families, and mean-hearted culprits intent on illegal means to gain riches.

In Whispers of Fortune, the author weaves well loved characters of a prior series into the background as supporting cast. They are connected family with the owners of the Hart Ranch where much of Whispers of Fortune takes place.

I love the characters in this story and they are well developed by the author fleshed out so that you feel you know them yourself. Strong minded, well educated Brody is searching for his two missing younger brothers. I found the two younger boys (older teens actually) loveable and admirable for their ability to make their way from East to West in pursuit of an old dream of their deceased father and grandfather. 

I look forward to reading more in this series and following new characters Mary Connealy has deftly woven into this book.

About the book: In 1875 California, Brody MacKenzie arrives at Two Hearts Ranch on a mission to find his runaway brothers, worried they may have fallen into harm. Instead, he finds them thriving at the ranch's school and orphanage under the care of Ellie Hart, a woman with a heart as resilient as the land she calls home. His own options limited, Brody reluctantly takes on the role of the ranch's doctor, and he forms an unexpected bond with Ellie, who's kept a steady eye on Brody's two rapscallion brothers. When the boys show him a mysterious journal that has been guiding their travels and may hold the key to a lost treasure, Brody and Ellie are captivated by the possibility of a thrilling adventure.

With winter approaching and his brothers threatening to bolt again, Brody and Ellie race against time to decipher cryptic clues and unearth the hidden fortune. But along the way, old adversaries resurface, threatening their newfound affection and the safety of the ranch.

In her exhilarating series starter, Mary Connealy weaves an exciting adventure of courage, danger, and love in the Wild West.

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. 

Whispers of Fortune (Golden State Treasure #1) by Mary Connealy [Giveaway]

In 1875 California, Brody MacKenzie arrives at Two Hearts Ranch on a mission to find his runaway brothers, worried they may have fallen into harm. Instead, he finds them thriving at the ranch's school and orphanage under the care of Ellie Hart, a woman with a heart as resilient as the land she calls home. His own options limited, Brody reluctantly takes on the role of the ranch's doctor, and he forms an unexpected bond with Ellie, who's kept a steady eye on Brody's two rapscallion brothers. When the boys show him a mysterious journal that has been guiding their travels and may hold the key to a lost treasure, Brody and Ellie are captivated by the possibility of a thrilling adventure.

With winter approaching and his brothers threatening to bolt again, Brody and Ellie race against time to decipher cryptic clues and unearth the hidden fortune. But along the way, old adversaries resurface, threatening their newfound affection and the safety of the ranch.

In her exhilarating series starter, Mary Connealy weaves an exciting adventure of courage, danger, and love in the Wild West.

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Watch for Chat With Vera's review. Soon!

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Secret word: preorder - Winner's prize copy is provided by and mailed directly to the winner by author or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. 

Into the Sunset (A Western Light #3) by Mary Connealy [Giveaway]

A Historical Western Romance

Set in 1800's Cheyenne, Wyoming

ISBN-978-0764242670
Bethany House Pub.

Will the sun set on their chance at happiness before they can seize it?

To finally escape the clutches of her controlling husband and the threat of being recommitted to an asylum, Ginny Rutledge enlists the help of her friends, Maeve O'Toole and Dakota Harlan. Fleeing their own tumultuous pasts, the group embarks on a journey to prove Ginny's sanity. However, as they confront the shadows they wish they could forget, danger looms from unexpected places.

Maeve grapples with her mother's impending remarriage and seizes a rare chance to escape her homestead--but that means reuniting with Dakota, the man she holds responsible for her father's death, who is caught in the crosshairs of a vengeful family. As the two of them navigate their shared history and a dangerous mission, Dakota is forced to confront his deepest fears and fight for the woman who has unwittingly captured his heart. Secret word: mental

In this action-packed series finale, Mary Connealy delivers a riveting tale of danger, romance, and second chances on the Western frontier.

My review: As the conclusion to the "The Western Light" series, the author wrapped up the saga of societies' abuse of women, and how the new State of Wyoming valued women and didn't tolerate abuse of women. This played well into the story of the main character, Ginny, whose husband had her committed to an abusive insane asylum simply because she wouldn't turn over to him her daughter's inherited  money. 

While during that period of history, women's property typically became her husband's upon marriage, Ginny's daughter's inherited money from a grandparent could not be controlled by her father.

In previous books in the series, the two ladies travel West to escape the clutches of the father, and in the story Into the Sunset, they eventually and permanently escape his reach. 

Typical of the author's comedic style of writing romance and action, this book provided light reading, fun, and some good old fashioned "rooting for the underdog" escapism. Typical also, was the author's exposing the reader to historic truth about the settling of the Western United States. 

I thoroughly enjoyed peeks into the lives of previous series' characters and how they continue their lives and interact in the current story. I remember them, but new readers won't have a problem with their story-interaction.

I recommend this sweet romantic and light hearted Christian story.

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided and mailed directly to the winner by author or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Cold Vengeance: (An FBI Profiler Romantic Suspense Cold Case Thriller Series #3 - Ryland & St. Clair) by Nancy Mehl (Christmas in July BlogHop Giveaway)

About the book: When a renowned crime podcaster vanishes without a trace, former FBI behavioral analysts turned private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are called upon to track her down. As they wade through the evidence she left behind, they unearth a startling connection--she may have discovered the existence of an unknown killer, and he will stop at nothing to carry out a deadly plan.

As the pair delves deeper, they soon find themselves the targets of a relentless enemy determined to silence them. With their lives--and hearts--on the line, can they confront the evil that threatens them before it consumes them both? Secret word: ill-will 

Toward the Dawn (Western Light, 2) by Mary Connealy [Giveaway]

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Despite trials that threaten their path forward, hope dawns for a future filled with love.

Kat Wadsworth and Sebastian Jones never imagined their lives would entwine so closely. Forced to flee on a wagon train from a vengeful uncle and an unknown gunman, they live in a hidden canyon with the family that rescued them. But as the days turn into months, they each have separate reasons for wanting to move back to society, and the best way to the independence they desperately crave might be through a marriage of convenience. Secret word: historical

However, settling into their homestead in Cheyenne, Wyoming, reveals a different reality for Kat. Her new husband becomes consumed by his inventions, leaving her feeling lonely and isolated. And just when they think they've left the danger behind, a mysterious attacker lurks in the shadows, threatening the new life they've built. Together, they must confront the perils from their pasts to forge a future with hope and the prospect of love.

These Tangled Threads: (A Southern Historical Fiction Book Set on the Early 1920's Biltmore Estate) by Sarah Loudin Thomas [Revies & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9780764242014
Bethany House
Paperback $17.99

My thoughts: Set amidst the beauty of the North Carolina Smoky Mountains, the story is based primarily on the little village at the foot of the estate of the Vanderbilt's "Biltmore Mansion." The story, though primarily in the village, touches on the relationship of workers in the village with the mansion properly. It meanders through the mountains of North Carolina and even touches West Virginia a bit.

The period of 1916 through mid-1920s was presented as a hard life in the Appalachian mountains, the pre-depression era, and after a major flood hit the area sweeping away much of life. The author creates characters appropriate for the time period who have been rescued from being orphans whose parents simply threw them away to kind clergy and gracious lady-of-the-manor persons.

The creativity of reclusive Appalachian ladies whose artistic weaving is at the heart of the story as is their hard-scrabble life. The author's descriptions of the designs woven into the fabric by these artists and the source of their design makes one wish to actually see and touch the cloth.

The story employs split timelines which does confuse the reader at times. I would prefer a more straightforward read as far as the time element goes. I felt this a deterrent to my personal enjoyment and the reason for my slow reading of the book.

Though all the characters were well fleshed out and knowable, I frankly only liked one character, Arthur, the now grown man who was an abandoned orphan raised by the local clergyman. He was kind, generous, smart, and a gifted artisan.

I have visited Biltmore and it is a beautiful place. The surrounding mountains envelope one with their majesty. The mansion is stunning. The gardens lovely. It has been said that the mansion was built in the style of English manors where there was a village that provided workers for the manor.

About the book: Set in the shadow of Biltmore Estate, a poignant tale of friendship, restoration, and second chances.

Seven years ago, a hidden betrayal scattered three young friends living in the shadow of the great Vanderbilt mansion. Now, when Biltmore Industries master weaver Lorna Blankenship is commissioned to create an original design for Cornelia Vanderbilt's 1924 wedding, she panics knowing she doesn't have the creativity needed. But there's an elusive artisan in the Blue Ridge Mountains who could save her--if only she knew where to begin.

To track down the mysterious weaver, Lorna sees no other way than to seek out the relationships she abandoned in shame. As she pulls at each tangled thread from her past, Lorna is forced to confront the wounds and regrets of life long ago. She'll have to risk the job that shapes her identity, as well as the hope of friendship--and love--restored.

About the Author: Sarah Loudin Thomas (sarahloudinthomas.com) is the author of numerous acclaimed novels, including The Finder of Forgotten Things, The Right Kind of Fool, winner of the 2021 Selah Book of the Year, and Miracle in a Dry Season, winner of the 2015 INSPY Award. She worked in public relations for Biltmore Estate for six years and is now the director of Jan Karon's Mitford Museum. A native of West Virginia, she and her husband now live in western North Carolina. Secret word: tangled

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine alone, and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and mailed/shipped directly to the winner by author or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. 

Chasing the Horizon (A Western Light #1) by Mary Connealy (Romantic, historical fiction) [Review]

 

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ISBN: 9780764242656

My thoughts: This new historical fiction handles several subjects. One, the plight of women (and sometimes men) being wrongfully committed to insane asylums and the atrocious, inhumane treatment they received. Two, evil men who treated women under their care brutally. And three, the courage of pioneers along the wagon trail from east to west and dangers encountered.

As the author weaves this story, her characters are fleshed out giving the reader insight into their character and behavior. We love some and truly hate others. They show strength to overcome and the ability to adjust. Their astounding compassion toward others. And, yes, there is a sweet, budding romance. And the twisted mind, character, and deeds of the main protagonist show the depth of a man's evil.

At the end of their journey across the pages of this book, we find that perils still persist and this makes us as readers anticipate the author's next tale in the Western Light Series.

A book I highly recommend. 

About the book: Her only chance at freedom waits across the horizon...

Upon uncovering her tyrannical father's malevolent plot to commit her to an asylum, Beth Rutledge fabricates a plan of her own. She will rescue her mother, who had already been sent to the asylum, and escape together on a wagon train heading west. Posing as sisters, Beth and her mother travel with the pioneers in hopes of making it to Idaho before the others start asking too many questions.

Wagon-train scout Jake Holt senses that the mysterious women in his caravan are running from something. When rumors begin to spread of Pinkerton agents searching relentlessly for wanted criminals who match the description of those on his wagon train, including Beth, she begins to open up to him, and he learns something more sinister is at hand. Can they risk trusting each other with their lives--and their hearts--when danger threatens their every step? Secret word: Chase

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy the book to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. 

Cold Threat (Ryland & St. Clair #2 Nancy Mehl

My thoughts:  The story of private investigators River and Tony continue in this second book in the series. After the suspense and thriller details in book one, Cold Threat has the investigators becoming involved in the pursuit of the Snowman arsonist and killer. As previous FBI behavioral analysts, River and Tony are helping Tony's father, Roy, analyze a recurring killer by analyzing all the facts they can gather. As they do this, their personal relationship continues to grow closer and it seems that there might be a budding romance. Their encounters with evil while drawing them closer together also draws them closer to a relationship with God. Tony has a strong faith and relies totally on God. River's faith is faint but grows.

As Cold Threat ends, the storyline is still hanging by a tenuous thread that the author will tie nicely as the series concludes. I can hardly wait for book three in the summer. Of note, the author addresses issues within the child foster care system, Alzheimer's disease, and mental health issues.

Cold Threat is a good mix of suspense, investigation, faith, and personal relationships, all items that stories by Nancy Mehl are known for and that keep her readers returning for more.

About the book: Twenty years ago, several people were murdered in Des Moines, and the only evidence left behind was a snowman ornament hanging on a tree on their front lawns. With a suspect behind bars, the killings have come to an end--or so everyone thought. But now crimes with a similar MO are happening in a small Iowa town, and a local detective believes the killer is back and ready to strike again.

With little time on the clock before they have another murder on their hands, private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair must work alongside Tony's father to find evidence that will uncover an evil that has survived for far too long. As the danger mounts and the suspect closes in, it will take all they have to catch a killer--before he catches one of them. Secret word: Protection

USA Today bestselling author Nancy Mehl continues her explosive new FBI profiler series with an intense story of revenge and redemption. Read an excerpt.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

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Chasing the Horizon: (A Suspenseful Historical Western Romance Set on the 1800's Oregon Trail) (A Western Light #1) [Giveaway: "Love Is In the Air Blog Hop]

Her only chance at freedom waits across the horizon

Upon uncovering her tyrannical father's malevolent plot to commit her to an asylum, Beth Rutledge fabricates a plan of her own. She will rescue her mother, who had already been sent to the asylum, and escape together on a wagon train heading west. Posing as sisters, Beth and her mother travel with the pioneers in hopes of making it to Idaho before the others start asking too many questions.

Cold Threat (Ryland & St. Clair #2) by Nancy Mehl [Giveaway USA]

Book mail is always such fun to receive. Here right in the middle of a cold blustery day, “Cold Threat” arrives promising to be yet another terrific read by author Nancy Mehl

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About the book: Twenty years ago, several people were murdered in Des Moines, and the only evidence left behind was a snowman ornament hanging on a tree on their front lawns. With a suspect behind bars, the killings have come to an end--or so everyone thought. But now crimes with a similar MO are happening in a small Iowa town, and a local detective believes the killer is back and ready to strike again.

The Legacy of Longdale Manor by Carrie Turansky from Bethany House PUblishing

My thoughts:  Author Carrie Turansky writes beautifully. Gentle. Real. Sweet. Charming. Stirring. 

I approached this story looking for a pretty straightforward historical fiction set in England's charming Lake District. I am not overly fond of split timeline stories, but I thought I'd pursue Ms. Turansky's new venture.

I found it difficult to focus my attention being split between the story set in 1912 and the one 2012. A hundred years apart. Shouldn't be too hard, after all its not centuries apart (note plural). It is only 100 years. And it encompasses basically a timeline I should be able to comprehend - my grandparents and upward to my generation. But I found it difficult to keep it straight.

Marshalling Her Heart (Wyoming Sunrise #3) by Mary Connealy [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts:  The conclusion of Mary Connealy's Wyoming Sunrise series wraps up the three young women's friendship and growth into young adulthood. Each of the three ladies, Nell, Mariah, and Becky come from different backgrounds and have different talents. They have a strong friendship and support each other in the wild, untamed state of Wyoming.

In 1871, Wyoming was a forward thinking, progressive state even though it was not industrialized or densely populated. The small town in which the three sisters live has had a serious amount of stage coach robberies and murders that are unsettling to this area.

In "Marshaling Her Heart" U.S. Marshals come into the area to try to put an end to the robberies and murders. During this time, a scheduled visit by a famous woman's suffrage leader, a woman no less, is about to happen. 

Becky has her own ranch and her father has his. He is a cruel, ruthless man that seriously has no love for his daughter. He puts her in harms way. 

As the story progresses we find that each of the three young women have found suitable men to love, settled down into normalized lives with, and yes, the marshals have a part in making life in the area just great.

As usual, a book by Mary Connealy is a winner. This series was a fun read that had some interesting history tucked in along with a nice measure of fun and humor.

About the book: Becky Pruitt has always prided herself on knowing everything that's happening on her successful ranch, which makes her foreman Nate Paxton's admission to her quite a surprise. With the notorious Deadeye Gang on the loose, Nate--a former U.S. Marshal--believes that Becky's ranch might be the best spot for a group of Marshals to use as a base and hideout.

The timing couldn't be more crucial for the growing town of Pine Valley, and Becky feels a commitment to help. But after escaping the grasp of her harsh father, she's never liked giving up control--of her life or her ranch. Again and again, Nate's proven himself to her and she soon realizes that if there's anyone she can trust with her ranch--and her heart--it might be him.

But the outlaws won't go quietly, and as danger draws ever nearer, Becky and Nate are faced with impossible choices that will test their growing bond.

This rousing conclusion to Mary Connealy's Wyoming Sunrise series is an exhilarating blend of humor, romance, and adventure.

Read an Excerpt

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided and mailed directly to the winner by author or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Rocky Mountain Rendezvous by Misty M. Beller (SISTERS OF THE ROCKIES, #1) [Review]

My thoughts:  The defining premise of the book is that of four sisters who travel from their home in Virginia to the unsettled frontier in the mountains of the future state of Wyoming. Their reason for such a journey, virtually unheard of during that time period, is to fulfill their dying father's request to find an Indian woman who nursed him during a deathly illness when he was in the wilderness. I just found it strange that without knowing more about the woman and where she actually was and after a period of 20 years had passed, these four young women would journey thus.

But they did.....

COLD PURSUIT (RYLAND & ST. CLAIR, #1) by Nancy Mehl [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts: This story is disturbingly intense as the author fleshes out the mental and emotional state of the primary antagonist. This individual has not one, but two mental illnesses or disturbances. So it was not a pleasant, feel-good read from this particular standpoint.

Then the story also involves more than one and possibly over-lapping criminal elements that create an sense of fright and mystery. And then there is the subplot of the female lead's mother's Alzheimer's disease and the care of her.

Throughout the book the thread of faith in God is woven. Tony's faith in God and strong friendship (and deeply caring - romantic?) with River are ever present gently guiding and protecting her.

The author's ability to paint word pictures of scenes, action, and emotions is beautifully displayed in this story. 

At the end of the book, while it reaches a joyful conclusion, there is a dangerous thread dangling that lets you know you want to read book two in the series so you can find out what else is in store for River and her friend and co-worker, Tony.

About the book: Ex-FBI profiler River Ryland still suffers from PTSD after a case that went horribly wrong. Needing a fresh start, she moves to St. Louis to be near her ailing mother and opens a private investigation firm with her friend and former FBI partner, Tony St. Clair. They're soon approached by a grieving mother who wants them to find out what happened to her teenaged son who disappeared four years ago. River knows there's almost no hope the boy is still alive, but his mother needs closure, and River and Tony need a case, no matter how cold it might be.

But as they follow the boy's trail, which gets more complicated at every turn, they find themselves in the path of a murderer determined to punish anyone who gets in his way. With a killer on the loose set on finishing the job he started, will River be pulled back into her tormented past or finally face the demons that haunt her?

With her trademark blend of page-turning thrills and intricate plots, Nancy Mehl delivers a spine-tingling thriller that will keep readers up all night.

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided by author, publicist, or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

The Laws of Attraction (Wyoming Sunrise Book #2) by Mary Connealy [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9780764241147
$16.99 Paperback

My thoughts: I just love how this author's books are such fun to read. They have lifted my spirits and got me tickly gigglely enough until the bah-hum-bugs have been thoroughly pushed aside.

The characters of three unusual women settled in the state of Wyoming are covered in this series. Book two follows lovely Nell; a seamstress who dearly loves to sew ruffles and lace dresses, but for which there just doesn't seem to be much of a market. Instead, all the men want are leather chaps which she graciously provides and which is making her a wealthy woman. But the wild west isn't just about dresses and chaps. There is meanness afoot, stage coach robberies, and murder.

Next we get a lovely little family of 3 young girls and their dad who are homesteading. They lost the girl's mother years ago, but dad is seemingly making things work just fine. Until they aren't. 

The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine [Book spotlight & Giveaway]

About the book: Crystal Paine's The Time-Saving Mom offers a four-step system to organize and simplify your life so you can maximize your time and invest in what matters most. Learn to enjoy family life more with time-saving hacks and routines, and find spiritual and familial fulfillment even on your busiest days. Make time for God and family today! 

From Crystal herself........
The Time-Saving Mom is basically a download of my best tricks & strategies for doing what you need to do & want to do from a place of rest and joy! In this book, share:

➡️How simplicity is a superpower -- & very practical ways to eliminate decision fatigue in your life
➡️My 6x2 Priority System — it will radically transform the way you approach each day & eliminate so much guilt.
➡️An incredibly easy & foolproof habit-tracking system that breaks down big-picture ideas & ambitions into bite-sized baby steps.
➡️How my hybrid planning system works & how to adapt it for your personality/situation.
➡️All the details on making & sticking with a Time-Blocked To Do List & how it will free you up to get so much more done.
➡️The #1 time-saving tip that starts my day off from a posture of peace -- no matter how much needs to be done!

The Time-Saving Mom was written in the middle of a lot of unexpected extra things in our lives. Right after I committed to writing it, we said yes to adopting David (whom we'd been fostering for a number of months) AND we found out -- much to our shock! -- that I was expecting our fifth biological child.

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GIVEAWAY

Begins February 26

Ends March 26 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: This is a complimentary post at no cost to the author. I have not receive  book or any other compensation. Winner's prize book is provided and mailed directly to the winner by author, publisher, or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Forged In Love (Wyoming Sunrise #1) by Mary Connealy [Review & Giveaway]

When sparks begin to fly, can a friendship cast in iron be shaped into something more?

My thoughts:  Mary Connealy has packed an exciting western frontier story with danger, romance, a winsome and protective dog, and women's rights all enveloped in her trademark witty style. This light hearted read is welcome in a world where there is so much darkness.

The story begins with a bullets-flying stagecoach robbery and ends with a daring rescue. Centered around a woman, Mariah, working as a blacksmith and a man, Clint, working as a fancy chef in his own restaurant and fluffed out with a borrowed dog whose big heart saves the day more than once.

Mary's books usually come in series of three. There were three young ladies in Forged In Love. I'm assuming one of these ladies will be the main lead in book two. I can hardly wait.

I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

About the book: Mariah Stover is left for dead and with no memory when the Deadeye Gang robs the stagecoach she's riding in, killing both her father and brother. As she takes over her father's blacksmith shop and tries to move forward, she soon finds herself in jeopardy and wondering--does someone know she witnessed the robbery and is still alive?

Handsome and polished Clint Roberts escaped to western Wyoming, leaving his painful memories behind. Hoping for a fresh start, he opens a diner where he creates fine dishes, but is met with harsh resistance from the townsfolk, who prefer to stick to their old ways.

Clint and Mariah are drawn together by the trials they face in town, and Clint is determined to protect Mariah at all costs when danger descends upon her home. As threats pursue them from every side, will they survive to build a life forged in love?

BOOK RELEASE DATE:
FEBRUARY 28 

GIVEAWAY

Begins February 16

Ends March 14 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions expressed are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided and sent directly to the winner by author or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.