Sheila's Books Read

Sheila's bookshelf: read

The Best Intentions
Scotland's Melody
The Secret Society of Salzburg
Secret of the Sonnets
20-40-60-Minute Dinners: Meals to Match the Time You Have
Through the Wilderness: My Journey of Redemption and Healing in the American Wild
Secret Santa Claus Club: A Tool to Help Parents Unwrap the Secret of Santa
Mr. Pudgins
Revenge Never Rests
The Best Mistake
Meriden Park
More Inspirational Stories for Young Women
The Great Tree: A Christmas Fable
To Capture His Heart
The Call of the Sea
Esperance
Livvy and the Enchanted Woodland
Come, Gentle Night
The Bad Boy Theory
Guide To Smart Wedding Planning: What You want to know and everything you haven't thought of yet.


Sheila's favorite books »

Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Two Seconds Too Late (Jeopardy Falls #2) By Dani Pettrey-Christian Romantic Suspense


 

Book Synopsis

In the stark but beautiful wilds of northern New Mexico, a luxury spa and couple's retreat turns into a chilling nightmare when a woman vanishes without a trace, just hours after a public fight with her boyfriend. Worried something sinister has happened, her friends reach out to investigator Riley MacLeod, an expert skip tracer, for help. The assignment means going undercover at the retreat, which means pairing up with private investigator Greyson Chadwick. Their partnership ignites a tumultuous mix of attraction and distrust as Riley's unorthodox methods clash with Greyson's meticulous approach.

As they delve deeper into the case and a ruthless hitman is unleashed upon them, Riley and Greyson find themselves fighting not only for justice but for their very survival. Staying one step ahead of danger, the pair discovers a hidden truth that rocks them to the core. In their race against the clock, they can only hope that they're not too late.

With her signature pulse-pounding twists, Dani Pettrey weaves a gripping tale of love and survival in the face of unimaginable danger.


Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bethany House Publishers (April 29, 2025)
  • Genre : Christian Romantic Suspense
  • Series : Jeopardy Falls #2
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 320 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0764238493
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****



My Review

Reading a Dani Pettrey novel guarantees a wild ride. Two Seconds Too Late is the second book in the Jeopardy Falls series written by her.

Riley, her brothers, and Greyson form a private investigation team. Action kicks in from the very first page and doesn’t slow down.

Riley and Greyson are a relatable couple with many struggles early on. Their relationship is the opposite-attract type and tested when they go undercover at a luxury spa and resort. Their goal? Find a missing woman and avoid two dangerous hitmen who want to end their investigation. They pose as a couple, adding extra tension to their mission.

The story is packed with mysteries that unfold as the book goes on. Riley and Greyson quickly realize the woman’s disappearance is part of something bigger. They’re racing against time to find her. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow as obstacles kept them apart. Secrets, hidden motives, and possible links to the case add layers of suspicion and keep the story interesting.

Overall, Two Seconds Too Late delivers a gripping mystery and suspense story. It keeps readers hooked with twists, surprises, and intense moments until the very last page.






****Meet Author Dani Pettrey ****

Publishers Weekly and #1 Amazon bestselling author, Dani Pettrey has sold nearly one million copies of her novels to readers eagerly awaiting the next release. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance.

Her novels stand out for their "wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters" (Publishers Weekly), "gripping storyline[s]," (RT Book Reviews), and "sizzling undercurrent of romance" (USA Today).

She researches murder and mayhem from her home in Maryland.





~*~*~*~*Purchase Two Seconds Too Late   ~*~*~*~*

HERE

Paperback-https://a.co/d/3KCcXfi

Kindle-https://a.co/d/16uGUJP

Sunday, April 27, 2025

Kate Landry Has a Plan: (A Southern Opposites Attract Closed Door Contemporary Romance) By Rebekah Millet-Review




 Book Synopsis

I turned to him, and he winked at me. Winked! We needed clear lines in place between us. We would not be flirty friends. We'd be friends, period. The sooner I made that distinction, the better.

Forty-year-old Kate Landry's carefully planned life has become as messy as the powdered sugar on her famous beignets. Juggling the responsibilities of running her café, raising her teenage niece, and the emotional baggage from her breakup, Kate finds her world once again turned upside down when her first-ever crush, Micah Guidry, returns to town as the hunky local librarian.

As Kate struggles to implement her plans to expand her café amid the New Orleans Mardi Gras madness and the meddling of her conniving ex-fiancé, Micah becomes the unwitting hero of her misadventures, stirring up feelings she thought she'd long buried. How can falling in love in the Big Easy be this hard?

"Smiles on every page! I loved that both characters were older than most heroes and heroines. . . . Ideal for Christian fiction readers who enjoy rom-coms!"--BECKY WADE on Julia Monroe Begins Again

"Up-and-coming romance author Rebekah Millet shines in this delightful second-chance story."--DENISE HUNTER on Julia Monroe Begins Again

This clean contemporary romance includes themes of family, overcoming past heartbreak, and midlife romance in the vibrant city of New Orleans. Kate Landry Has a Plan is a perfect read for fans of Becky Wade, Pepper Basham, Courtney Walsh, Christian romance, and second-chance love stories.

Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bethany House Publishers (March 18, 2025)
  • Series: Beignets for Two
  • Genre: Closed Door Contemporary Romance
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 368 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 076424096X
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****




My Review

Kate Landry is a 40-year-old single mother who runs a restaurant and faces life's daily challenges. This romantic comedy finds humor in life's awkward moments, especially since Kate often seems unlucky. She has raised her niece, Hayley, since she was two, after her sister and brother-in-law passed away. It's refreshing to see main characters in their 40s who have already learned to handle life's ups and downs. Micah, her childhood friend who once kissed her in seventh grade, reappears and changes everything for Kate.

Much of the story focuses on Kate’s past, including her relationship with her former fiancé Ryan, her stressful relationship with her mother, and her struggles raising Hayley, now a teenager. When Micah returns, he brings both happiness and complications. I admired Micah’s patience, kindness, faith, and selflessness. He proved to be the man Kate really needed.

Kate Landry Has a Plan is filled with many emotions: humor, sadness, regret, and forgiveness. I really enjoyed this well-written novel that shows life rarely goes as planned. Still, happiness and hope can shine through even during tough times.

****Meet Author Rebekah Millet****


Rebekah Millet is a Booklist starred review author, as well as a Selah Award, Cascade Award, and ACFW First Impressions Award–winning author of southern inspirational romance novels. A New Orleans native, she grew up on beignets and café au lait, and loves infusing her colorful culture into her stories. Her husband is an answer to prayer, who puts up with her rearranging furniture and being a serial plant killer. Her two sons keep her laughing and share in her love of desserts.




~*~*~*~*Purchase Kate Landry Has a Plan ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://a.co/d/gZq1wtE

Kindle-https://a.co/d/8cPjJOX

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Novel Threat: A Pen & Dagger Novel by Traci Hunter Abramson-Romantic Suspense Review


 

Book Synopsis

In a world of covert codes, two CIA operatives must infiltrate a New York publishing house, where every word on the page could be a weapon.

Brandon Hale, a seasoned CIA case officer, contemplates leaving the covert world of espionage behind to embark on a quieter path in publishing. But his plan takes an abrupt turn when a critical source within the Labyrinth terrorist organization is assassinated, leaving behind a cryptic message about a New York publishing house. Rather than submitting his resignation, Brandon finds himself going undercover at Monroe Publishing to stop the next terrorist strike against the US.

Kimber Seidel, a CIA finance officer with secret aspirations of becoming a novelist, enjoys a serendipitous encounter with a handsome book lover like herself on her way home from London. Though she cannot reveal her true employment to her new friend, Brandon Hale, she can’t deny the instant spark that ignites between them. When Kimber’s manuscript is unexpectedly shopped to Monroe Publishing as a pawn in the CIA’s counterterrorism plot, Kimber must navigate the intersection of her literary dreams and her covert life as well as her deepening connection with Brandon.

Though each decoded message is leading Brandon and Kimber closer to the truth, it is also leading them into the line of fire, where the stakes are higher than anyone ever imagined.

Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Shadow Mountain (April 1, 2025)
  • Genre: Romantic Suspense
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 320 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1639933840
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****






My Review

A new series by author Traci Hunter Abramson is always an exciting event. Novel Threat is the first book in the Pen and Dagger series. It includes everything fans expect from Abramson – CIA agents, espionage, terrorists, and a touch of romance.

The story pulls you in from the very first page and never slows down. It’s set in the world of publishing, which adds a fresh twist to the usual thriller. Kimber Seidel is a CIA finance officer and an aspiring author. Brandon Hale is a seasoned CIA case officer. The two are paired up to stop a terrorist plot. Kimber goes undercover as a rising author. Brandon works as a personal assistant for a big name at Monroe Publishing. Together, they try to find the mole inside the company helping terrorists plan an attack on the U.S. The chemistry between Kimber and Brandon is instant, making their partnership even more fun to follow.

The story’s cast of characters feels real. From the friendly neighbor who shares baked goods to Kimber’s lively sister. There’s also the gossipy coworkers Brandon interacts with and Amelia, his strong boss, who keeps you guessing.

My favorite parts were the action scenes—racing through New York and being chased by a hitman. But I won’t spoil the ending. The last few chapters are full of surprises, making every reader want to keep turning pages.

This romantic suspense story made me excited to meet new characters and see what would happen next. Abramson is good at keeping readers on their toes until the very end. I didn’t see the big reveal coming, thanks to all the red herrings. Novel Threat will make your heart race, challenge your thoughts, and leave your romantic side smiling at the sweet kisses and growing love. It’s a quick read thanks to its perfect mix of mystery, action, suspense, and believable romance.

****Meet Author Traci Hunter Abramson****


Traci Hunter Abramson was born in Arizona, where she lived until moving to Venezuela for a study-abroad program. After graduating from Brigham Young University, she worked for the Central Intelligence Agency for several years, eventually resigning in order to raise her family. She credits the CIA with giving her a wealth of ideas for suspense novels as well as the skills needed to survive her children's teenage years. She has gone on to write a number of bestselling suspense novels that have consistently been nominated as Whitney Award finalists. She considers shoes an optional accessory which became evident when she won her first three Whitney Awards in 2013 (Code Word), 2014 (Deep Cover), and 2016 (Failsafe.) Safe House won Whitney Awards for both the mystery/suspense category as well as 2017 Adult Novel of the Year. She added two additional awards in 2019 (Mistaken Reality - best mystery/suspense and Sanctuary - Adult Novel of the Year.) She currently lives in Virginia with her family where she enjoys sports, travel, writing, and recently retired from coaching high school swimming. Follow Traci on BookBub at https://www.bookbub.com/profile/traci-hunter-abramson and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/tracihabramson/



~*~*~*~*Purchase "Novel Threat" ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Hardcover-https://a.co/d/3qVJ2aQ

Kindle-https://a.co/d/8KXspjR

Friday, April 18, 2025

Waylaid {Windy City Westons #1} By Jerusha Agen-Christian Romantic Suspense Review and GIveaway

Waylaid JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Waylaid by Jerusha Agen, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Waylaid

Title: Waylaid
Series:
Windy City Westons #1
Author:
Jerusha Agen
Publisher:
SDG Words, LLC
Release Date:
March 27, 2025
Genre:
Christian Romantic Suspense

****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

Someone wants to kill her. She wants the killer to finish the job. 

Spring Weston will do anything to rise in the ranks of pro cycling and prove she isn’t the one failure of the five Weston siblings. Anything except cheat. When she learns of doping on her cycling team, she’s determined to uncover the truth. But she can’t if she’s dead. 

Sergeant Torin Cotter may not be the hero the public thinks he is, but he recognizes fear when he sees it. When he takes over the investigation of the collision that landed Spring in the hospital, he’s compelled to protect her from whatever danger she’s in, even though he knows he might fail. Again. 

Spring’s faith in God isn’t enough to help her face the living nightmare she awakened to after the accident. But neither she nor the handsome sergeant see the greater threat that’s coming until it’s too late. 

If they’re going to survive, Spring and Torin will not only have to confront their worst fears—they’ll have to find a reason to live.  

Waylaid is the first installment in the thrilling Windy City Westons series that features five siblings who encounter danger and love in the city of Chicago.

My Review 

This story is packed with intensity, just like Agen’s other novels. The plot is complicated, with several storylines that connect in surprising ways. Both Spring and Torin have their wounds—physically, mentally, or emotionally. I appreciated watching how their relationship grew, from distrust to trust. Faith plays a major role here; both characters learn to rely on God again. The message is clear—hard times don’t mean God has forgotten you. It’s a beautiful truth to hold onto.

A murderer is threatening Spring while warning her not to reveal the truth about her accident. Torin is determined to keep her safe. Spring worries that someone might die because of her. I admired how Torin was such a good man. Despite losing his wife, he still gives his best, even when he's hurting inside.

The buildup to the big reveal kept me on edge. I had my suspicions about who the villain might be. Naturally, as with all of Agen’s books, there are many twists and surprises. The story kept me guessing until the very end.

I’m eager to read more about the Weston siblings. It was fun to see them come together to support their sister, Spring. Their father, on the other hand, came across as mean and proud. I wonder if he will change as more books in the series come out.

If you’ve never read a book by Jerusha Agen, this one is a good choice. It has suspenseful scenes, family drama, and a sweet romance. Waylaid offers plenty of excitement for fans of Christian Romantic Suspense.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Jerusha Agen | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More In This Series


About the Author

Jerusha Agen

Jerusha Agen imagines danger around every corner but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. With a B.A. in English and a background in screenwriting, Jerusha is a speaker, writing instructor, and Fear Warrior who sounds the call to battle against fear in our everyday lives. Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats. You’ll often find her sharing irresistibly adorable photos of them in her newsletter and on social media.

Connect with Jerusha by visiting jerushaagen.com to follow her on social media, subscribe to email newsletter updates, find more of her thrilling, fear-fighting novels and get a free suspense story.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed paperback of Waylaid, a $25 Barnes and Noble gift card, and a Waylaid mug, notebook, and magnet!

Waylaid blog tour giveaway JustRead Tours

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 14, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 21, 2025. Winners 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 JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Discovering Dahlia (The Blue Orchid Society #5) by Jennifer Moore-Victorian Romance Review




 Book Synopsis

Following a painful public humiliation, Dahlia Lancaster was left heartbroken, friendless, and shunned by London Society. But rather than dwelling on the balls she’ll never attend, Dahlia has turned her attentions to her unconventional inheritance—a steamship company. After a year of work, she’s preparing to launch The Aurora, a luxury ocean liner that promises to revolutionize travel. The invitation list is exclusive: Dahlia’s closest friends—the Blue Orchid Society—as well as a few influential individuals from her old life whose presence will ensure the success of her endeavor. Unfortunately, not all have the best interests of Dahlia or her shipping line at heart.

Lord Meredith has loved Dahlia since their first meeting. But after her fall from grace, she has evaded his every attempt to see her—until she extends an invitation to join her on The Aurora. Once aboard, Lord Meredith and Dahlia’s tentative rekindling of their friendship is interrupted when things begin to go terrible wrong. Mischievous dealings take on an ominous tone, and it’s clear that someone is intent on humiliating Dahlia again or worse—but she will not be sunk so easily.

Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Covenant Communications (April 1, 2025)
  • Genre : Victorian Romance
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 208 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1524427934
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****



My Review

The Blue Orchid Society Series is a personal favorite of mine. Its women are strong and truly independent. Each friend shows great loyalty and intelligence to one another. Sadly, this is the last book, but it ends well.

Book five centers on Dahlia Lancaster. Society shunned her after a failed proposal humiliated her. She spent a year rebuilding her life. Dahlia takes over a steamship company via her inheritance. The launch has her friends and some foes aboard. Lord Miles Meridith, her old friend, still loves her and Dahlia doesn't know about the extent of his feelings. His devotion touched me, even with Dahlia's doubts. The romance builds slowly. But the pace seems real with all the shipboard events.


Here's what makes this book special:

  • -The Blue Orchid Society rallies to

           support Dahlia.

         -Mysterious events and dangers      

  •      abound on the ship.

    • -A French Chef serving delicacies. 

  •   -Friendships and loyalties face tests.

  •  -A Magic show with "illusions" playing
  •    a big part.

  -A slow-burn romance with some lovely  moments between Dahlia and Miles.

The mysteries surrounding the mishaps on the cruise are very intriguing and pull you in quickly. The twists and turns will keep readers guessing until the culprits are finally revealed.

You can enjoy this book without reading the others, but please start with the first book. You'll become better acquainted with the Blue Orchid Society ladies and other characters. This series celebrates loyal friends and confident women. You'll also adore the rare men who love and support their ladies and help them fulfill their dreams. This Victorian Era series is a must-read for historical romance fans.


****Meet Author Jennifer Moore****


Jennifer Moore lives with one husband and four sons who produce heaps of laundry and laughter. She earned a BA from the University of Utah in Linguistics, which she uses mostly for Jeopardy. A reader of history and romance, she loves traveling, tall ships, scented candles, and watching cake decorating videos. When she’s not driving carpool, writing, or helping with homework, she’ll usually be found playing tennis. Learn more at authorjmoore.com



~*~*~*~*Purchase Discovering Dahlia~*~*~*~*

HERE

Paperback-https://a.co/d/3nwihX5

Kindle-https://a.co/d/7R4R8m3

Saturday, April 12, 2025

The Crime Brulee Bake Off (A Claire Walker Mystery) By Rebecca Connolly-Cozy Mystery Suspense Review




 Book Synopsis

An unexpected romance. A haunting mystery. Pastries to die for. The Great British Baking Show meets a cozy mystery with a contemporary romance and a Regency-era twist.

Amateur baker Claire Walker is thrilled to be a contestant on Britain’s Battle of the Bakers. She can almost smell the fresh pastries wafting through the air. If she can win the grand prize, she can ditch her teaching job and launch her baking career.

The Viscount of Colburn, Jonathan Ainsley, is the custodian of Blackfirth Park and an eligible bachelor. He reluctantly agrees to allow the cooking competition show to film on his estate, but when a contestant is found dead soon after filming begins, Jonathan is forced to get involved. To make matters worse, the baker’s death stirs up rumors of the legendary death of the tenth Viscountess of Colburn two hundred and fifty years earlier.

Even as suspicion falls on some of the bakers, a decidedly different kind of heat begins to simmer between Claire and Jonathan. If they are to have any hope of a future romance, they must first solve the mystery before the show gets canceled or someone else falls prey to what some believe is the Blackfirth Park ghost.

Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Shadow Mountain (February 4, 2025)
  • Genre: Cozy Culinary Mysteries
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 320 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1639933042
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****


My Review

Crime Brulee Bake Off is a delightful read, murder and all! Romance, mystery, and yummy baked goods create a great mix. I adore cooking shows like Master Chef and The Great British Baking Show. This book was clearly made for me.

The story unfolds in the UK at Blackfirth Park. Jonathan Ainsley, Viscount of Colburn, is the estate's owner. Britain’s Battle of the Bakers picks Blackfirth to host this year. Claire Walker, a contestant, is thrilled to be on the show. Soon, she and Jonathan find the show turns into a scene of murder and danger.

Here are some things I loved:

-The English estate setting.

-A baking competition with so many yummy baked goods.

-The story of friendship and betrayal.

-The instant attraction turning into something more.

The Crime Brulee Bake Off has great characters and lots of suspense. The long-awaited kiss is amazing. Dive into this romantic suspense quickly, grab your favorite baked good, and start reading.

-T

****Meet Author Rebecca Connolly ****

Rebecca Connolly is the author of more than three dozen novels. She calls herself a Midwest girl, having lived in Ohio and Indiana. She's always been a bookworm, and her grandma would send her books almost every month so she would never run out. Book Fairs were her carnival, and libraries are her happy place. She has been creating stories since childhood, and there are home videos to prove it! She received a master's degree from West Virginia University, and is a hot cocoa addict.




~*~*~*~*Purchase The Crime Brulee Bake Off  ~*~*~*~*

HERE

Paperback-https://a.co/d/iaM1oSi

Kindle-https://a.co/d/dAmoA8C