Malicious Intent By Lynn Blackburn

Malicious Intent

by Lynn Blackburn

Publisher: Revell

Series: Defend and Protect

ISBN: 9780800737962

There was NO way I was going to pass up the chance to review the second book in this series. I loved the suspense in book one and knew I was going to love it in this one as well! The author didn't disappoint! I received the book for review from the publisher.

Summary:

Her years of research and sleepless nights are about to pay off . . . if she can stay alive.

Dr. Ivy Collins, founder and CEO of Hedera, Inc., is ready to begin clinical trials of her company's cutting-edge prosthetic. Her work has been praised by government, medical, and advocacy groups, and everyone hopes the device will be a success. Well, almost everyone. Someone is trying to sabotage Hedera and the launch, but to what purpose--and how far will they go to get what they want? 

Meanwhile, US Secret Service Agent Gil Dixon can't believe he's finally been reunited with Ivy, his childhood best friend. Now that he's found her again, Gil intends to mend their broken relationship. But it will take all his skill to uncover the truth in time to save Ivy's life, her life's work, and the innocent lives caught in the crossfire.

My Review:

Holy smokes, this was a fantastic story! This author knows how to bring the suspense!

Malicious Intent started with an intense beginning and didn't let up until the very end! Needless to say, I was hooked immediately.

Gil, from book one, is healed and back to work. His "reunion" with the girl of his youth isn't a pleasant one, but I loved how he just jumped in with both feet. I also loved that the entire team reacted the same way. If I ever need protection, I'll want it from them!

And poor Ivy. She just wants to live her life and help others. I have to say, I wouldn't want to be in her shoes for any reason. Having access to millions of dollars clearly isn't what it's cracked up to be. This is evident with how she's attacked and constantly in danger. What I liked about her and Gil is that trying to figure out what their "relationship" is after 15 years and now that they're adults, isn't easy, but can be done without being written over-the-top. I did feel like they thought about the same topics/issues quite a few times so I kind of moved past the repeats after the first couple of times.

I thought the person behind all of the insanity could've been several people, but the way the author writes it, I could never peg them! Just when I "knew" who it was, she threw in another loop and I was back to guessing.

One of the best parts of this story is that the author brings in characters from Dive Team Investigations series and I LOVED it! It was so fun to catch up with characters I'd read about in the past. You can't beat a good crossover!

If you are a suspense fan, you don't want to miss out on this story. I would encourage you to read book one because some of that story spills over to this one.

About the Author:

Lynn H. Blackburn is the award-winning author of Unknown Threat and the Dive Team Investigations series. She believes in the power of stories, especially those that remind us that true love exists, a gift from the Truest Love. Blackburn is passionate about CrossFit, coffee, and chocolate (don't make her choose) and experimenting with recipes that feed both body and soul. She lives in Simpsonville, South Carolina, with her true love, Brian, and their three children. Learn more at LynnHBlackburn.com.

Strength In The Storm By Laurel Blount + GIVEAWAY

Welcome to the Audiobook Blog Tour for Strength in the Storm by Laurel Blount, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! I received the audiobook for this review tour.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Strength in the Storm audiobook 

Series: Johns Mill Amish Romance #2 

Author: Laurel Blount 

Narrator: Stina Nielsen 

Publisher: Books On Tape (audiobook) 

Release Date: February 22, 2022 (audiobook) 

Genre: Amish Romance / Christian 

In this touching Amish romance, a brokenhearted woman and a steadfast man discover that the safest place to weather tragedy is in each other’s arms. 

After the murder of both her parents, Emma Hochstedler returns to the small community of Johns Mill, hoping to resume her quiet existence. Reclaiming her place proves harder than expected—especially now that a movie is being made about her family’s loss. But then, an old friend offers her a lifeline that gives her new purpose. 

Amish builder Samuel Christner is the biggest—and the strongest—man in town. In fact, the gentle giant has only one weakness—Emma. Even though she broke his heart, he won’t let his childhood sweetheart face her troubles alone. He hires Emma as a nurse for his elderly aunt…and finds himself falling for her all over again. 

But while romance blooms, storm clouds gather. And when darkness falls, it will take all Sam’s strength—and all their love—to see them through. 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Books On Tape | Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound | BookBub

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

My Review:

This is the first book I've read by this author. I do wish I would've read book one because the aftermath from that one spills over to book two so I would suggest not reading them out of order. That being said, the author gave just enough of the back story naturally in book two that I knew what got Emma to where we start in the story.

I really like Emma. That poor girl had been dealt a rough hand. I have to admit, that I struggled a bit with her sister-in-law (although she has a very small part in this story). Something just rubbed me wrong and I'm guessing if I'd read book one I would probably like her more. lol

Speaking of being rubbed wrong, when Emma goes to live with Ruth... holy smokes, I don't know when I've read a more rude character. I'm surprised the bishop hadn't taken her to task years ago. If anyone every needed to apologize publicly to their community, it would be Ruth. How anyone could abide being near her for more than a half minute is beyond me. And she has a big part in this story!

Then there was Samuel. I really enjoyed him. I don't actually know any Amish men personally, but he seemed like he'd be one of the typical guys - always looking out for his family and loved ones, happy with physical labor, and trying his best to be a good example & leader.

I enjoyed the flow of the story and the tension with the pushy movie guy, the murderer who hasn't been captured, and an accident. This audiobook was one I didn't want to turn off!

There is a scene at the end that seemed to tie up a bit too tidy for me and a bit unrealistic so I'm hoping if there's a book three that maybe that will be answered. I also want to know what happens with the movie - does it get made? If so, what are the repercussions on this Amish community?

As for the narrator, I think she did a terrific job. I would definitely listen to more of her stories.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Award-winning author Laurel Blount writes captivating romances full of grit and grace—with characters who’ll walk right off the page and into your heart. She lives on a farm in Georgia with her husband, their four fabulous kids, and an assortment of ridiculously spoiled animals. Connect with her at www.laurelblountbooks.com

CONNECT WITH LAUREL: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $50 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 21, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on March 28, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Driving Force by Lynette Eason & Kate Angelo

Driving Force

by Lynette Eason & Kate Angelo

Publisher: Sunrise Publishing

Series: Elite Guardians Collection

ISBN: 978-1953783196

I have to tell you, what Sunrise Publishing is doing by partnering seasoned authors with debut authors is amazing! They're second foray into this is with Lynette Eason and Kate Angelo. I love suspense so when I found out this was coming out I applied to the launch team immediately. I'm on the team and they sent me the ARC ebook for review.

Summary:

He's the last client she wants to protect...

Elite Guardians bodyguard/former sniper CHRISTINA SHERMAN has protected uncooperative clients before-but this time, well her client is bossy, headstrong and occasionally eats off the floor. Yes, he's a highly trained military working dog, but certainly her skills could be put to better use, right?

Not according to former Special Forces Air Commando GREY PARKER. He needs her help to protect his dog while he undergoes an experimental surgery that could restore his ability to walk. He just needs someone to keep his canine partner safe. Most of all, Grey wants back on his feet so he can track down a deranged scientist known as The Scavenger who unleashed a nerve agent that left Grey sidelined in a wheelchair.

When an attempt is made on Grey's life, and dead bodies begin piling up-with evidence the same toxin is responsible-suddenly Christina is tasked with keeping both dog and soldier alive...and with them, the secrets that could stop a terrorist attack.

But this time, even Christina might be in over her head.

Dive into the exciting ignition to the Elite Guardians Collection.

My Review:

This was such a great start to a new series! Getting to meet Kate Angelo through her writing with Lynette Eason was fantastic! I can tell I'm going to be devouring all of her future suspense novels because she's good at this genre. There were so many elements to Driving Force that I loved. I feel like after reading this, the author and I would get along in real life. I'll admit that I loved her talk about cars.

Let's talk about the important stuff though. I really liked getting to know Christina as a bodyguard. She was no-nonsense, but also human in her job. Not everything goes the way you hope, but you do your best. Christina was always trying to do her best.

Then there was Grey and Boss. They are a great team and with Christina added in, they're a force to be reckoned with. As they work together to protect Boss and try to track down the bad guys, we get to know them better. As they track down the bad guys, there are lots of twists and turns that you don't expect and the ending? I never would've guessed it!! Gotta hand it to the authors for being able to keep me in the dark for so long.

I also liked getting to know some of the other Elite Guardians. I haven't read the series that spills over to this one, but I have them on my tbr list and I'm starting those stories. I love it when characters from previous books make appearances in new ones so it'll be fun getting to know the side characters that filter into this series!

I'm so ready for the rest of the stories in this Collection!

About the Author:

Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of Life Flight and the Danger Never Sleeps, Blue Justice, Women of Justice, Deadly Reunions, Hidden Identity, and Elite Guardians series. She is the winner of three ACFW Carol Awards, the Selah Award, and the Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, among others. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and has a master's degree in education from Converse College. Eason lives in South Carolina with her husband and two children. Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.

Kate Angelo is an author, minister, and public speaker from Southwest Missouri who works alongside her husband strengthening and encouraging marriages and families through their ministry. As the mother of five mostly grown children, she is fluent in both sarcasm and eye rolls-subjects she never intentionally taught while homeschooling. With her chihuahua taking up half of her desk space, she writes suspenseful stories of imperfect people who encounter hope and healing through Jesus. Kate is a tech enthusiast, coffee lover, productivity guru, accomplished knitter, avid boater, prayer warrior, and known klutz.Visit her at https: //kateangelo.com.

Counterfeit Love By Crystal Caudill + GIVEAWAY

Counterfeit Love

by Crystal Caudill

Publisher: Kregel

Series: Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age

ISBN: 9780825447402

It's so great to be introduced to new authors through a blog tour! This cover captured my attention immediately, and when I had the chance to review her debut novel, I jumped at the chance. I received the book for review.

Summary:

Can this undercover agent save the woman he loves--or is her heart as counterfeit as the money he's been sent to track down?

After all that Grandfather has sacrificed to raise her, Theresa Plane owes it to him to save the family name--and that means clearing their debt with creditors before she marries Edward Greystone. But when one of the creditors' threats leads her to stumble across a midnight meeting, she discovers that the money he owes isn't all Grandfather was hiding. And the secrets he kept have now trapped Theresa in a life-threatening fight for her home--and the truth.

After months of undercover work, Secret Service operative Broderick Cosgrove is finally about to uncover the identity of the leader of a notorious counterfeiting ring. That moment of triumph turns to horror, however, when he finds undeniable proof that his former fiance is connected. Can he really believe the woman he loved is a willing participant? Protecting Theresa and proving her innocence may destroy his career--but that's better than failing her twice in one lifetime.

They must form a partnership, tentative though it is. But there's no question they're both still keeping secrets--and that lack of trust, along with the dangerous criminals out for their blood, threatens their hearts, their faith, and their very survival.

Combining rich history, danger, suspense, and romance, Crystal Caudill's debut novel launches this new historical series with a bang. Fans of Elizabeth Camden, Michelle Griep, and Joanna Davidson Politano will be thrilled to find another author to follow!

To read an excerpt of Counterfeit Love click here.

My Review:

So, the cover reeled me in to begin with! I absolutely love it! I also liked the synopsis. The story turned out to be so much more than I expected!

I can't think of any other books I've read about counterfeiters. This one was definitely an adventure and towards the end, I chewed about six fingernails down to the quick! lol I also learned some new things from this story. First I didn't know there as a "first" Great Depression, which was renamed the Long Depression. And while I knew what an "incline" was visually, I didn't realize they were used in Cincinnati so I was confused when I initially was reading that part. 

Let's talk about the cast of characters! So many to love and despise. First there was Theresa. I loved her spunk, but boy was she hard headed. She drove me about as nuts as Darlington! Edward had me waffling between liking him and not. lol And then of course there's Broderick who was easy to like, but had me facepalming more than a few times.

Honestly, aside from a few of the characters, I didn't feel like I could trust anyone. I kept waiting for the shoe to drop on each person I liked or thought was part of the counterfeit ring. Each time I "knew" who was the head person, I was proved wrong. Hence, the chewed fingernails!

I most definitely loved how faith in the Lord was infused throughout this story and with several of the characters. I liked how the author didn't allow Theresa to just blindly accept God being with her and trusting Him. She really struggled with it and I think readers will really relate to that, especially when going through hard times.

There are a lot of twists and turns throughout the story and kept me riveted to each page until the end! I was secretly hoping Darlington would get his own story because he was such a hard nose fellow. He needs a woman to soften him and bring out his gentle side. lol

You can enter the giveaway here: https://www.audrajennings.com/2022/03/win-copy-of-crystal-caudills.html

About the Author:

Crystal Caudill is the author of "dangerously good historical romance," with her work garnering awards from Romance Writers of America and ACFW. She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, Caudill can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio. Find out more at crystalcaudill.com. You can also find her on Facebook and Instagram.

Until Leaves Fall In Paris By Sarah Sundin

until Leaves fall in Paris

by Sarah Sundin

Publisher: Revell

ISBN: 9780800736378

A couple years ago I began listening to Sarah Sundin's books on audiobook and became hooked. Now her books are first in line when I know they're being released!! I was sent this book for review.

Summary:

Paris, 1940

When the Nazis march toward Paris, American ballerina Lucie Girard buys her favorite English-language bookstore to allow the Jewish owners to escape. The Germans make it difficult for her to keep Green Leaf Books afloat. And she must keep the store open if she is to continue aiding the resistance by passing secret messages between the pages of her books.

Widower Paul Aubrey wants nothing more than to return to the States with his little girl, but the US Army convinces him to keep his factory running and obtain military information from his German customers. As the war rages on, Paul offers his own resistance by sabotaging his product and hiding British airmen in his factory. But in order to carry out his mission, he must appear to support the occupation--which does not win him any sympathy when he meets Lucie in the bookstore.

In a world turned upside down, will love or duty prevail?

My Review:

You know those stories you get lost in so much that you're not ready to leave it? That's what it was like to read Until Leaves Fall in Paris. I "watched" this entire story play out in my mind! The author has such an incredible gift of bringing every little piece of her stories to life. From imagining the notes left in books for the resistance or the different color of green on the leaves, it's all so vivid through her writing.

I don't think you can read a WWII novel written by this author and not have emotional reactions throughout it. I absolutely adored Lucie. She was such an incredible character. While she was born in America, it was easy to feel her love of Paris through her life. Then there was Paul. My heart was so heavy for him and his little Josie. Having to live in Paris shunned by appearing to be a collaborator with Germany was clearly difficult for him because of how it affected Josie. I can only imagine how many people were misunderstood during that time.

The tension of being part of the resistance or pretending to be a collaborator was strong as a reader! I held my breath so many times throughout the story wondering if that time was going to be when everything came to light. Seriously sat on the edge of my seat for the whole story!

What I loved about the story was Lucie and Paul getting to know each other better. It was such a sweet and tender romance under the worst conditions. Their roles being hidden from each other for the protection of everyone added an element that I couldn't wait to be resolved!

Honestly, there was so much to love about this story, I couldn't put all of it in a review because I'd be telling you everything bout it!

About the Author:

Sarah Sundin is the bestselling author of When Twilight Breaks and several popular WWII series, including Sunrise at Normandy, Waves of Freedom, Wings of the Nightingale, and Wings of Glory. She is a Christy Award finalist and a Carol Award winner, and her novels have received starred reviews from Booklist, Library Journal, and Publishers Weekly, and have appeared on Booklist's "101 Best Romance Novels of the Last 10 Years." Sarah lives in Northern California. Visit www.sarahsundin.com for more information.