Tag: Book Review

Contemporary Fiction, Fiction, Women's Fiction

Lakehouse Secrets by Jodi Allen Brice

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Title: Lakehouse Secrets
Author: Jodi Allen Brice
Series: Laurel Cove #2
Location: Hopeton
Main Character: Hannah
Other Characters: Carolina. Alex, Albert, Terri, Fred, Gregory, Betty
Pets: Phoenix
Rating: 5

Jodi Allen Brice’s Lakehouse Secrets is a captivating mix of heartfelt storytelling and suspense that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. The story centers on Hannah Reece, who is navigating her first Christmas without her late husband, James. Her world is turned upside down when she receives an anonymous letter accusing him of embezzlement.

Brice’s writing shines as she crafts a tale of mystery, friendship, and self-discovery. Hannah’s determination to uncover the truth, aided by her friend Carolina, is both inspiring and relatable. I admire Hannah’s determination to uncover the truth while also wanting to safeguard her grown children’s memories of their father. Hannah is both relatable and refreshingly honest, and her emotional journey is as captivating as the mystery she uncovers.

 The small-town setting of Laurel Cove provides a cozy yet intriguing backdrop, making the story immersive and vivid.

The themes of resilience, courage, and complex relationships are beautifully explored, leaving readers with a sense of hope and admiration for the characters. Brice’s skill in balancing emotional depth with a gripping plot makes Lakehouse Secrets a standout read.

This is ideal for fans of second chances, and heartwarming stories infused with a touch of intrigue. I couldn’t put it down, and I’m eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series!

If you’ve read this book, please share your thoughts in the comments.

Buy on Amazon!

Happy Reading!

Contemporary Fiction, Fiction, Women's Fiction

Lakehouse Promises by Jodi AllenBrice

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Title: Lakehouse Promises
Author: Jodi Allen Brice
Series: Laurel Cove #1
Location:  Hopeton
Main Character: Carolina
Other Characters: Thomas, Beatrice, Janice, Chris, Lydia, Kylie, Rebecca, Jennifer, Getty
Pets: Phoenix
Rating: 5

“Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you. ~Matthew 5:44

I was engrossed by this book from the very start. Carolina’s ex-husband infuriated me with his treatment of her, and then her ex-mother-in-law entered the scene, intensifying my anger. I couldn’t put the book down, eager to see what would happen next and how Carolina would navigate the challenges thrown her way.

Jodi Allen Brice’s Lakehouse Promises is a beautifully crafted story that captures the essence of starting over and discovering strength in adversity. The protagonist, Carolina Johnson, is both relatable and inspiring as she faces the challenges of rebuilding her life following a devastating betrayal.

Carolina faces her greatest challenge when she discovers that her husband is having an affair with a woman nearly half his age, who is also pregnant. The situation becomes even more painful when she realizes that her so-called friends were already aware of this and chose not to tell her. In her forties, she is having to start over. She receives the Lakehouse as part of the divorce, prompting her move there to start fresh. With minimal funds and having not worked in nearly 20 years, she now faces the challenge of finding a job. To complicate things further, the Lakehouse is uninhabitable, so she must find a way to transform it into a home.

I admire Carolina’s resilience and determination. She works tirelessly to overcome obstacles and seeks to make her life meaningful. As she builds friendships in her new hometown, she discovers the true essence of friendship.

Laurel Cove provides a cozy and picturesque backdrop for Carolina’s journey, immersing readers in the charm of small-town life. The characters, including Carolina’s difficult neighbor and her outrageously rude former mother-in-law, are vividly portrayed, adding depth to the narrative.

Brice’s storytelling excels as she delves into themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the necessity of releasing bitterness to embrace happiness. The emotional depth and relatable challenges make this book essential for anyone who enjoys tales of second chances and personal growth.

This story is about starting over, overcoming obstacles and learning the true meaning of friendship. If you enjoy heartfelt contemporary fiction that explores themes of starting over and self-discovery, I highly recommend this uplifting story of transformation.

My favorite quotes from the book:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” ~Phillipians 4:6

“Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you. ~Matthew 5:44 ”

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” ~James 1:5

Happy Reading!

Fiction, Romance, Women's Fiction

Coastal Candlelight by Kay Correll

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Title: Coastal Candlelight
Author: Kay Correll
Series: Magnolia Key #3
Location: Magnolia Key, FL
Main Character: Amanda & Connon
Other Characters: Beverly, Miss Eleanor, Megan, Brooklyn
Rating: 5

The third book in the Magnolia Key series does not disappoint. Set in the charming town of Magnolia Key, it skillfully blends romance, self-discovery, and the warmth of small-town life.

This story follows Amanda as she transitions from a high-pressure career to a more meaningful and slower-paced life, making her journey both relatable and inspiring. Her participation in the Magnolia Heritage Festival strengthens her connection to the community, and her evolving relationship with the quiet yet talented woodcarver, Connor, is beautifully depicted. Their connection develops organically, marked by moments of tenderness and tension that keeps the reader engaged.

The author has a unique ability to describe settings that draw you into the story. This is a story about second chances and the journey to find a place where you can belong and discover your true identity, providing readers with a satisfying and uplifting experience.

If you enjoy feel-good romances that explore second chances, self-discovery, and small-town charm, you’ll love this book. Even though this series can be read out of order, I recommend reading it in sequence to become familiar with the recurring characters.

Please share your thoughts in the comments if you’ve read this book.

Happy Reading!

Fiction, Romance, Women's Fiction

Encore Echoes by Kay Correll

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Title: Encore Echoes
Author: Kay Correll
Series: Magnolia Key #2
Location: Magnolia Key
Main Character: Tori & Gavin
Other Characters: Miss Eleanore, Beverly, Maxine, Jonny, Dale, Cliff, Nash, Chloe
Rating: 5

Encore Echoes is the second book in the Magnolia Key Series and it does not disappoint.  The author skillfully crafts a heartwarming story about second chances, community, and personal growth. The characters are well-developed, each exhibiting unique quirks and struggles that make them feel genuinely real.

Victoria has always dreamed of leaving her life in New York to move to Magnolia Key. Her grandmother used to take her there as a child, and she loved it. Now, determined to make a change, she starts going by Tori and relocates to Magnolia Key, where no one knows her past.

Magnolia Key’s enchanting setting comes to life through Correll’s vivid descriptions, immersing readers in its coastal charm. The themes of Second chances, forgiveness, courage, and the strength of community resonate deeply, instilling a sense of hope and warmth. It even made me want to move to Magnolia Key.

This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys small-town stories that combine romance and personal growth.  I highly recommend it!

Happy Reading!

Fiction, Romance, Women's Fiction

Saltwater Sunrises by Kay Correll

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Title: Saltwater Sunrises
Author: Kay Correll
Series: Magnolia Key #1
Location: Magnolia Key, FL
Main Character: Maxine, Dale, Beverly
Other Characters: Miss Eleanore, Jasmine, Darlene
Rating: 5

Saltwater Sunrises is the first book in the Magnolia Key Series. This heartwarming tale beautifully captures the charm of small-town life and the essence of new beginnings. It follows Maxine’s return to Magnolia Key, offering an inspiring and relatable journey as she navigates the complexities of her past and present.

Maxine returns to Magnolia Key to visit her best friend Beverly, whom she hasn’t seen in years. Facing various life changes and navigating her relationship with her grown children, she seeks a fresh start. Although she grew up in Magnolia Key and feels some familiarity, she is on a journey to rediscover her place in the community. The hidden painting and coded letter add an intriguing layer of mystery to the narrative, keeping readers engaged from start to finish.

Kay Correll skillfully crafts a story of friendship, romance, and self-discovery set in a beautiful backdrop. I couldn’t put this book down and am eagerly awaiting the next installment in the Magnolia Key series. It’s highly recommended for anyone who enjoys uplifting tales filled with romance and heartfelt moments with a touch of mystery!

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

Unforseenl Murder by Daisy Belle

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Title: An Unforeseen Murder
Author: Daisy Belle
Series: Sammy Brook’s Cozy Mystery
Location: Bar Harbor, Maine
Main Character: Sammy Brooks
Other Characters: Emily Jax, Edwina, Gertie, Sabastian, Jasper, Bobby, Wade, Sherrif Donovan, Poppy, Pete, Maude, Dylan, Agatha
Pets: a Golden Retriever named Cinnamon
Rating: 5

“Beware the twister of wills and words.”

An Unforeseen Murder skillfully combines intrigue, charm, and unforgettable characters. From the first page, Daisy Belle captivates readers with a mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end. Her vivid and engaging storytelling creates a cozy yet suspenseful atmosphere, making it ideal for fans of classic whodunits.

When she arrives and waits for the housekeeper, Gertie, to fetch Ervina, she suddenly hears a scream. Rushing to find out what happened, she discovers Ervina lying on the ground, dead after having fallen through a barrier. While the sheriff deems it an unfortunate accident, Sammy believes a more thorough investigation is necessary. Sammy, along with her friends Emily and Jax, and her loyal Golden Retriever companion, Cinnamon, embarks on their own investigation.

This book is a true gem for fans of cozy mysteries. It’s clever, with just the right amount of twists and turns to keep you on your toes. Heartwarming and thoroughly satisfying, I couldn’t put it down! I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a captivating read filled with lighthearted humor and suspense.

I received this book as a member of the ARC team, and this review reflects my honest opinion.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

Deadly Pursuit by Tammy L. Grace

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Title: Deadly Pursuit
Author: Tammy L Grace
Series: Cooper Harrington Detective series #6
Location: Nashville, TN & Knoxville, TN and surrounding area
Main Character: Coop Harrington
Other Characters: AB (Annabelle), Aunt Camille, Charlie, Ben, Deputy Bennet, Royce Stanton, Detective Mitchel, Sherrif Lawson, Ms Clara, Luna
Pets: Gus, Coop’s loyal Golden Retriever
Rating: 4

“You know what I like about people? their dogs”

Tammy L. Grace delivers a captivating mystery in Deadly Pursuit (book 6 in the Cooper Harrington Detective series). The narrative is engaging, featuring well-developed characters like Coop, the charming and determined private detective, and his loyal assistant, Annabelle (AB), who adds intelligence and depth to the investigation.

In this episode, a woman has gone missing, and Coop is called in to assist with the investigation. The team identifies a suspect, but they must gather evidence to prove his guilt. Alongside the police and his loyal dog Gus, Coop works tirelessly to establish the suspect’s involvement in the crime, racing against time to locate the missing woman. Additionally, there are suspicions that this may not be his first offense, prompting them to investigate cold cases involving other missing women as they strive to hold him accountable.

As a side story, Coop’s Aunt Camille has a friend who is missing an expensive broach that is a family heirloom. She believes it has been stolen. Coop is called in to investigate what happened to the broach and identify the potential thief.

I love Coop! He is a loyal friend, son, and nephew, and he’s also known for the quirky sayings on his T-shirts. I admire his relationship with his associate, AB; I keep hoping it will develop into a romantic relationship, but only time will tell. My favorite character, however, remains to be Gus, Coop’s loyal Golden Retriever. I am obviously a dog person. The suspenseful plot keeps readers hooked, while Gus, Coop’s dog, brings warmth to the story.

Although the twists and turns are intriguing, some aspects of the plot felt slightly predictable, which is why I rated it 4 stars instead of 5. Overall, it’s a fantastic read for mystery lovers who appreciate a blend of suspense, Southern charm, and relatable characters!

“”Sorry, I can’t, I have plans with my dog”

Happy Reading!

Fiction, Women's Fiction

Serenity at Seagrove by Rachel Hanna

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Title: Serenity at Seagrove
Author: Rachel Hanna
Series: South Carolina Sunsets #12
Location: Seagrove, South Carolina in the Lowcountry
Main Character: Luna & Archer
Other Characters: Janine, Julie, SuAnne, Daisy, Dawson
Rating: 5

This is the twelfth book in the South Carolina Series, the series that initially hooked me on Rachel Hanna’s works, starting with the first book, The Beach House.

Once again, she delivers with Serenity at Seagrove! This heartwarming installment weaves together themes of healing, second chances, and love, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Seagrove.

Luna Mason’s journey to establish a wellness center and find her place in the community is truly inspiring. Her compassion and determination make it easy to support her success. Archer Hawk, who starts off resistant but ultimately experiences a transformation, adds depth and emotional resonance to the story. The evolution of their relationship feels authentic and deeply satisfying, keeping readers engaged from start to finish.

The author’s storytelling is captivating, striking a perfect balance between heartfelt moments and unexpected twists. Readers will immediately connect with the vibrant community of Seagrove and its charming characters. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer, Serenity at Seagrove is a must-read that will leave you feeling uplifted and yearning for your own seaside getaway! From the very first book in the series, I’ve wished I could move to Seagrove!

While this book can be enjoyed as a standalone , I recommend starting with the first book in the series, The Beach House. Several characters from earlier books appear here, so reading them in order will enhance your understanding of the characters

Happy Reading!

Christian, Fiction, Romance

Someone Like you by Karen Kingsbury

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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

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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!