Review of “Everything is Just Beginning” by Erin Bartels

Everything Is Just Beginning by Erin Bartels is told from the point of view of the main character Michael Sullivan. Although Michael really likes music, he is very self-critical and has a low self esteem, traits with which many people can identify. Even before he begins his story, the reader may sympathize with all the hardships he has already faced. When he has nowhere else to turn, he moves in with the twin brother of his dad. Quite ironically, he was named after his uncle. That may be all they have in common. After accepting an invitation intended for his uncle, Michael meets the Wheeler family. Natalie Wheeler, another one of the main characters,  is a character most everyone will like from the very beginning. She too has obstacles to overcome. Unlike Michael, she does not lack self confidence. Her family has a lot to contribute to the story line as well. There are many underlying lessons to be gained and many opportunities for second chances throughout this book. If you have ever had someone in your life that really made a difference in making you the person you have become, this book will truly speak to you. It is a most enjoyable read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.

Review of “What Happens Next” by Christina Suzann Nelson

This is the first novel I have read by this author. The main story revolves around a cold case of a missing girl. I find cold cases interesting because I am curious what happened and why it could not be solved sooner so that is what really drew me into reading this book. Each chapter is titled one of three characters’ names: Heather, Faith and Dora. I am glad it is only three since they are all women because anymore than that and it becomes hard to keep up with who you are reading about. Throughout this book, you learn that sometimes things are not always what they seem. I also think there is a lesson in forgiveness as well as letting go and giving things over to God. I highly recommend this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.

Review of “Critical Threat” by Lynette Eason

From the first page to the very last page of Critical Threat by Lynette Eason, the reader is drawn into the mystery and possible romance around which the story revolves. The reader finds herself/himself in the middle of a very complex plot. The main characters, Grace Billingsley, an FBI agent, and Sam Monroe, a prison psychiatrist, meet for a second time. They are faced with many obstacles as they work together to solve the mystery behind a serial killer in order to stop him or her. There are quite a few secondary characters, and Lynette Eason does a phenomenal job in developing them. This book is one that the reader will find almost impossible to put down. It is a real page turner for sure!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.

Review of “Kidnapped in Texas” by Virginia Vaughan

I am a big fan of books by Virginia Vaughan. The action in this book starts at the very beginning. I am surprised at how close to the beginning the secret that Abby is keeping comes out. However since it is mentioned on the back of the book, it is not that big of a deal to the reader and I don’t think changes the enjoyment of the story. The suspect in this book was challenging to figure out. There were a lot of possibilities including the idea that there was more than one suspect. This was definitely a good read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.

Review of “Together for the Twins” by Laurel Blount

I am a big fan of books by Laurel Blount. Her books are sweetly romantic and have an awesome family feel to them. The main character, Ryder, in this book has just recently been given custody of his twin nephews and he is looking for a nanny to help him out. The nanny, Elise, in this book is so well written and has a Mary Poppins quality to her. I really love how they interact in the beginning and also seeing how their relationship evolves. However, one of my favorite characters is actually a secondary character. It is Ruby Sawyer. She is the woman who took Ryder in when he needed a good home. This novel drew me in to the point where I felt every emotion that the characters felt and then some. I highly recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.