Christian, Fiction, Romance

Someone Like you by Karen Kingsbury

Title: Someone Like You
Author: Karen Kingsbury
Genre: Women’s Fiction, Christian, Romance
Location: Birmingham, AL & Nashville, TN
Main Character: Andi Allen, Dawson Gage,
Other Characters:  London, Jenny, Jim, Louise, Larry, Matt, David
Pets: Toby, London’s Labrador Retriever
Rating: 5

This is the first book I have read by Karen Kingsbury but it won’t be the last.  I read this book after seeing the movie. The movie was so moving and emotional that I just had to read the book and I am really glad that I did. 

The book I read was revised to align more closely with the movie, so some of the names may have been changed in that version.

This book will truly tug at your heartstrings. It follows Andi Allen, who learns she was adopted as an embryo after a stranger reveals the truth about her past. Initially, Andi struggles to believe him, but her parents eventually confirm it. This shocking revelation shakes her to the core, prompting her to leave her job, fiancé, and adoptive family to journey to Birmingham, AL in search of her true identity.

As she connects with her biological family, she discovers she has a sister she never knew about, adding to her confusion. Dawson Gage, a stranger, helps Andi learn about her biological family and the sister she will never meet.  Andi’s faith, along with Dawson’s support, helps her navigate her journey home. He guides her as she seeks to uncover her true identity. The novel beautifully weaves together themes of forgiveness, healing, and the transformative power of love.

This book is incredibly touching; it had me both crying and smiling at the same time. If you enjoy a beautifully written tearjerker with a wonderful story, I highly recommend this book.

Be sure to read the Producer’s notes at the end of the book, which explains how this book was adapted into a movie.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

The Blackmailer’s Murder by Daisy Belle

Title: The Blackmailer’s Murder
Author: Daisy Belle
Series: Peak’s Point Cozy Mystery #1
Location: Peak’s Point
Main Character: Finola
Other Characters: Tom, Jack, Martha, Iris, Becky, Harold, Roger, Sara, Ben, Zita
Pets: Watson & Pip
Rating: 4.5

The Blackmailers Murder is an excellent introduction to the Peak’s Point Cozy Mystery Series. From the very first page, I was captivated by the charming protagonist and her loyal dog, Watson, as I always enjoy stories featuring dogs. The small-town setting and quirky characters infused the story with warmth and intrigue.

Fiona inherits her aunt’s Bed & Breakfast and is getting ready for the grand opening. But when she discovers a dead body of a local developer, everything goes awry!

The author’s writing style is engaging and descriptive, allowing readers to easily visualize the scenes and connect with the characters. The pacing is perfect, and I often found myself eagerly turning the pages to uncover the truth. I appreciated how the author seamlessly blended humor, suspense, and heartwarming moments. The grand reopening of the Bed and Breakfast, the mysterious death, and the ensuing investigation were all beautifully executed.

Although I found the plot skillfully crafted with twists and turns that kept me guessing, the ending didn’t deliver the surprises I had hoped for. The buildup led to a climactic moment, but when the killer was revealed, it felt less surprising than expected; I anticipated a bigger revelation.
That said, I did enjoy the book—it was definitely a page-turner. However, I wish the identity of the killer had been more surprising.

Happy Reading!

Fiction, Romance, Women's Fiction

Grits & Grievances by Rachel Hanna

Title: Grits & Grievances
Author: Rachel Hanna
Series: Jubilee #5
Location: Jubilee
Main Character: Coop, Whitney, Tate
Other Characters: Madeline, Brady, Genevieve, Wanda
Rating: 5

Grits & Grievances is a wonderful addition to the Jubilee series. From the very first page, I was captivated by the lively characters, vivid descriptions, and engaging storyline that transported me to the small Southern town of Jubilee. Rachel is a remarkable storyteller, skillfully weaving together themes of friendship, love, and resilience to create a heartwarming tale of new opportunities, forgiveness, and understanding.

When a new restaurant opens in Julblee, Coop, the owner of the local diner, worries that it will negatively impact his business. Imagine Coop’s dismay upon discovering that his daughter, Whitney, has befriended the owner of the new restaurant. This leads him to believe she has turned to the “dark side,” creating a significant rift between them. Whitney also has her own dreams of starting a business, which her dad does not support. She must decide between her father, her aspirations, and her growing feelings for the new restaurant owner, whom her dad views as the enemy.

We also have the opportunity to catch up with other residents of Jubilee, such as Madelaine and Brady, which is always enjoyable.

Grits & Grievances is more than just a story; it’s an experience that keeps you feeling uplifted and connected to the characters long after you’ve turned the last page. If you enjoy stories centered on family, friendship, love, dreams, and commitment, all set in a charming small town in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you will love this new installment in the Jubilee series. Having read all of Rachel Hanna’s books, I can confidently say she consistently delivers. She has crafted another wonderful story, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next.

This book will be released on February 25th on Amazon. Grits & Grievances (The Jubilee Series Book 5) – Kindle edition by Hanna, Rachel. Literature & Fiction Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

You can also buy it in Rachel’s store Grits & Grievances – Jubilee Series Book 5 (EBOOK) – Rachel Hanna

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

Muffins and Murder by Daisy Belle

Title: Muffins and Murder
Author: Daisy Belle
Series: Sammy Brook’s Cozy Mystery Series #2
Location: Bar Harbor Maine
Main Character: Sammy
Other Characters: Emily, Jax, Sherriff Donovan, Kim, Erin, Jenny, Astrid, Olivia, Mrs Finch, Ethan, Tiffany, Fawkes
Pets: Golden Retriever named Cinnamon
Rating: 5

“Muffins and Murder” by Daisy Belle is a charming addition to the Sammy Brook’s Cozy Mystery Series! The story follows Sammy Brook as she returns to her hometown of Bar Harbor to take over her Granny B’s Bakery. Her excitement quickly turns to dread when she discovers the town’s mayor dead with his face in her basket of muffins.

Sammy finds herself a prime suspect in the mayor’s death. Determined to clear her name, she embarks on her own investigation, aided by her loyal golden retriever, Cinnamon, and her best friends, Emily and Jax. As they dig deeper, they uncover surprising secrets that could lead them straight to the killer.

The author’s writing captivates readers with its engaging style and unexpected twists that keep them guessing until the very end. The small-town setting, filled with quirky and well-developed characters, adds both depth and charm to the story. Sammy’s resolve to clear her name, supported by her loyal golden retriever and her gossipy best friend, creates an entertaining and heartwarming story.

If you enjoy cozy mysteries filled with humor, charming characters, and unexpected twists, you will love this book.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

The Jail Cell Murder by Daisy Belle

Title: The Jail Cell Murder
Author: Daisy Belle
Series: Chloe Lane Cozy Mystery #3
Location: Bramble Dale
Main Character: Chloe
Other Characters: Officer Daniel, Dani, Rosie, Kieran, Aiden, Dana, Ramiera, Pearl, Astrid, Levy, Jose, Alison, Raye, Billie Jean, Aunt Rene
Pets: Golden Retriever named Peanut
Rating: 5

“The Jail Cell Murder” by Daisy Belle is a fantastic addition to the Chloe Lane Cozy Mystery Series! This book expertly blends suspense, humor, and heart, making it a must-read for cozy mystery enthusiasts.

In this installment, a prisoner is murdered in jail, and Officer Daniels is injured in the process. With numerous suspects to consider, could a pair of boots and a cryptic message written in lipstick on the cell wall by the deceased lead to the murderer? Chloe, along with her loyal golden retriever, Peanut, and her friends Aiden and Rosie, is determined to follow the clues to find the killer. However, could their involvement in the investigation put their lives in jeopardy?

I am thoroughly enjoying this series. All the characters are well-developed and have distinct personalities, and the plot is captivating. I find that once I start reading, I can’t seem to put it down. The author has a remarkable ability to take the reader on a rollercoaster ride with unexpected twists and turns as the puzzle unfolds.

If you enjoy cozy mysteries featuring a compelling cast of characters and a murder that keeps you guessing about the suspect’s identity, you’ll love this book.

I received this book as part of the ARC team and this review is my own opinion.

Happy Reading?

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

A Taste for Murder by Daisy Belle

Author: Daisy Bell
Series: A Sammy Brook’s Cozy Mystery
Location: Bar Harbor, Maine
Main Character: Sammy
Other Characters: Millicent, Mayor Thompson, Jax, Sheriff Donovan, Emily, Mrs Findlay, Jackie, Sierra, Dr. Palmer, Dottie, Elois, Harold
Pets: Golden Retriever named Cinnamon
Rating: 5

This is the first book in the Sammy Brook’s Cozy Mystery Series, more akin to a short story that I finished in about an hour.

Sammy has returned to take over her grandmother’s bakery. When a local food critic collapses and dies right after tasting her cream puff, all evidence suggests that Sammy poisoned her. With the help of her friends and her trusty Golden Retriever, Cinnamon, Sammy races to prove her innocence and catch the real killer.

This is a short book, making it a quick read that is both entertaining and enjoyable. Although it’s a murder mystery, it is infused with humor. Sammy’s witty remarks had me laughing out loud at times. I found the book highly engaging, featuring a compelling mystery with a twist, as well as themes of friendship, community, and humor. And let’s not forget the dog; I always enjoy a good story that includes dog.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

A Vow of Murder by PennyBrooke

Title: A Vow of Murder
Author: Penny Brooke
Series: A Seabreeze Bookshop ‘Cozy Mystery #7
Location: Somerset Harbor, Massachusetts
Main Character: Rue
Other Characters: Diana, Jeanne Marie, Elliot, Elizabeth, Angela, Mark, Belinda, Sargeant Mott, Andy, Felicia, Clinton
Pets: Golden Retriever named Gatsby & 2 cats, Oliver & Beasley
Rating: 5

A Vow of Murder is the seventh book in the Seabreeze Bookshop Cozy Mystery series, and it certainly lives up to expectations. Ms. Brooke crafts a captivating and engaging story from the very first page.

Rue Collier finds herself entangled in yet another murder mystery when she is invited to a cake tasting, only for one of the wedding guests to end up murdered. With plenty of suspects and unexpected twists, Rue, along with her loyal dog, Gatsby, set out to find a killer.

If you enjoy cozy mysteries featuring well-developed characters, intriguing plots, and a touch of small-town charm, you will love this book. of course, I love Gatsby, the Golden Retriever, who adds a delightful touch to the story. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a captivating mystery filled with twists and turns to catch a killer.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

The Manuscript Murder by Daisy Belle

Title: To Manuscript Murder
Author: Daisy Belle
Series: Chloe Lane Cozy Mystery #2
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Location: Bramble Dale
Main Character: Chloe Lane
Other Characters: Aunt Rene, Aiden, Rosie, Officer Daniel, Dani, Dana, Raye, Dana, Ethen, Hannah, Madeline, Lucas, Leslie, Jackson
Pets: A Yellow Lab named Peanut
Rating: 5

I love discovering a “new to me” author, and Daisy Belle is a true gem. She has an incredible ability to weave a mystery that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The second installment in the Chloe Lane Cozy Mystery series is a delightful mix of suspense, humor, and heart—definitely a page-turner. I stayed up far too late because I simply couldn’t put it down.

Once again, Chloe finds herself at the center of a murder mystery when a local author, disliked by almost everyone, is found dead in her bookstore. As the prime suspect, Chloe teams up with her best friend Rosie, her current crush, Aiden and her loyal Labrador Retriever, Peanut, to prove her innocence.

This story is filled with intriguing suspects and unexpected twists that keep readers guessing until the very end. The characters are well-developed, adding depth to the narrative. Chloe makes a fantastic protagonist; she’s relatable and likable. And, of course, everyone loves a story that features a dog. The small-town setting and cozy bookstore add a charming backdrop, and there may even be a hint of romance.

This book truly has it all: suspense, a cleverly constructed murder mystery, a touch of humor, endearing characters you’ll fall in love with, small-town charm, and, of course, a dog.

If you read this book, I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

To Catch a Murderer by Daisy Belle

Title: To Catch a Murderer
Author: Daisy Belle
Series: Chloe Lane Cozy Mystery #1
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Location: Bramble Dale
Main Character: Chloe Lane
Other Characters: Aiden, Rosie, Officer Daniel, Dani, Dana, Raye
Pets: A Yellow Lab named Peanut
Rating: 4

To Catch a Murderer is the first book in the Chloe Lane Cozy Mystery Series and also the first work I have read by this author.

Chloe has moved back to town to run the local small town bookstore. When the most despised man in town is found murdered, there is no shortage of suspects. However, when Chloe’s old crush becomes the prime suspect, she feels compelled to get involved in the investigation. Accompanied by her trusty dog, Peanut, Chloe begins to dig deeper. As she starts receiving threatening notes and Peanut faces danger, she realizes she’s getting closer to uncovering the truth. Despite warnings to back off, Chloe remains resolute in her mission to find the killer. Will Chloe’s determination to solve this crime put either her or her loyal yellow lab, Peanut, in danger?

I found this book entertaining, featuring a well-paced plot filled with twists that keep the reader guessing. The characters are well-developed and engaging. I particularly enjoy the small-town atmosphere and Chloe’s interactions with the other residents. Chloe is a strong protagonist, and I look forward to her next adventure.

If you enjoy a cozy mystery with a twist, especially one featuring a feisty yellow lab, you’ll love this book

Happy Reading!

Fiction, Women's Fiction

A New Leash on Life by Patricia Sands

Title:A New Leash on Life
Author: Patricia Sands
Series: Dragonfly Cove Dog Park
Location: Dragonfly, FL
Main Character: Libby
Other Characters: Don, Matthew, Amy, Marge, Rosie, Matilda, Dorothy, Leslie, Ethan, Matilda, Emily
Pets: Labrador Retriever named Chance
Rating: 5

This is the ninth and final book in the Dragonfly Cove Dog Park Series, and I must say, I will miss all the characters and dogs from Dragonfly Cove. Each book in this series is beautifully written and heartwarming. Although each book is penned by a different author, they fit together so seamlessly that you would think they were the work of a single writer.

This episode focuses on Libby, a retired librarian. Her husband has dementia, leading her to place him in a care home, while her only son and his family have temporarily moved to Australia. Before their departure, Libby’s son and daughter-in-law reserved a puppy from Leslie, the local dog breeder, to be picked up upon their return. When they learn that their stay in Australia will be longer than initially planned, they ask Libby to take care of the puppy until they come back. Reluctantly, Libby agrees. Little did she know, this decision would turn out to be the best one she ever made.

Libby’s journey of navigating the challenges of caring for her husband with dementia while temporarily looking after a new puppy is both touching and inspiring. The author skillfully captures the emotional depth of the characters, making them relatable and endearing. The playful puppy brings a delightful charm to the story, illustrating the healing power of canine companionship. The plot is engaging and well-paced, keeping readers captivated from beginning to end.

As a big fan of Labrador Retrievers, the inclusion of Labs in the stories sealed the deal for me. If you’re a fan of heartwarming stories featuring dogs (especially Labradors), you’ll love this series.

Make sure to explore all the books in this heartwarming series.

Book 1: Pick of the Litter
Book 2: Collar Me Crazy by Kay Bratt
Book 3: Hearts Unleashed by Tammy L. Grace
Book 4: Back in the Pack by Barbara Hinske
Book 5: Loyal & True by Ev Bishop
Book 6: Coming Home to Heel by Jodi Allen Brice
Book 7: Unleashed Melody by Julie Carobini
Book 8: Teacher’s Pet by David Johnson
Book 9: A New Leash on Life by Patricia Sands

Happy Reading!