Hide and Seek

GIVEAWAY

EASON, LYNETTE
HIDE AND SEEK

She won't give up.

Erica James has spent the past three years as a skip tracer, hunting down others and hoping one day it will lead to her kidnapped daughter. Now she has a new suspect—Max Powell's missing sister. Max, a private investigator, has found evidence that connects the two missing girls, and together, he and Erica search for answers. The closer they get to finding answers, the stronger their feelings for each other become. But the kidnapper will stop at nothing—including murder—to keep them from finding Erica's daughter.

My Review:

A thrilling and hair-raising read. And gut-wrenching. Erica's desperation is palpable on every page. I think every reader will make an emotional connection with this mother and her unrelentless quest to find her missing child. I barely kept ahead of Erica and Max's investigation but am pleased to say I clued in a few pages before they did. :-) Not that they listened to my warnings mind you. Another Eason classic.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Hide and Seek, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday August 4 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

The Letters

GIVEAWAY

FISHER, SUZANNE WOODS
THE LETTERS

Welcome to a place of unconditional love and unexpected blessings
When widow Rose Schrock turns her Amish farmhouse into a bed and breakfast, she expects there might be problems. The reaction of her cantankerous mother-in-law for one. Disapproval from the church for another. But what she doesn't expect is that the guests at the Inn at Eagle Hill will spill their problems into her life and into her heart. She also never expects the kind of help and support she gets from Galen King, the quiet and rugged horse trainer next door. Love, Rose discovers, can bloom in the most unexpected ways.

With inspiration from a true story and her signature plot twists, bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to Stoney Ridge for a fresh story of simple pleasures and strong faith in a complex world.

My Review:

The first in a new series (The Inn at Eagle Hill), Suzanne Woods Fisher fans will be thrilled to know that we're back in Stoney Ridge with a fresh cast of characters...along with some cameo appearances of characters from her Stoney Ridge Seasons series. A thrill shot right through me every time I recognized someone from previous books. Yes, I'm that invested in my fictional friendships. :-)

Once again, a younger secondary character has stolen my heart. This time it is Rose's thirteen year-old daughter, Mim.  She is wisdom beyond her years mixed with a sweet naivety to create an intriguing and often amusing character. I just love Fisher's ability to introduce her readers to real people who just happen to live in books. And for die-hard fans, you might be interested to know that Jimmy Fisher is back and he might just have met his match!

But let's not forget that this is Rose and Galen's story. A wee bit of a May/September romance with a thread of mystery thrown in for good measure. The Letters is filled with life lessons -- not the least of which is that the hope of the Lord can touch a life and turn darkness into light. I was intensely moved by Rose's journey from tragedy to triumph and the ripple effect her actions (and heart) have on those around her.

An exceptional read for Amish lovers everywhere. And if you're not an Amish fan be forewarned -- you might just become one after reading The Letters.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of The Letters, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday August 4 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

Welcome to Last Chance

GIVEAWAY

ARMSTRONG, CATHLEEN
WELCOME TO LAST CHANCE

She's learned you can't count on anyone--but she didn't count on landing in Last Chance.The red warning light on her car dashboard may have driven Lainie Davis to seek help in the tiny town of Last Chance, New Mexico, but as she meets the people who make this one-horse town their home, it's her heart that is flashing bright red warning lights. These people are entirely too nice, too accommodating, and too interested in her personal life--especially since she's on the run and hoping to slip away unnoticed.

Yet in spite of herself, Lainie is increasingly drawn into the small-town dramas and to a handsome local guy with a secret of his own. Could Lainie actually make a life in this little town? Or will the past catch up to her even here in the middle of nowhere?

My Review:

What a stunning debut novel! Lainie is such a complex character -- not your usual run-of-the-mill heroine. She has an edge to her that leaves her hovering on bitterness and definitely cynical about the too-nice, church-going people of Last Chance.  Armstrong has done a tremendous job of creating a sympathetic character who is a product of her past. Realistic. Gritty. Compelling.

Love the way Last Chance woos her. A wonderful collection of secondary characters who all seem oblivious to the word 'no' and immune to Lainie's 'leave me alone' signals. None of them are perfect either, but that doesn't stop them from gathering the newcomer into the fold -- even when she's kicking and screaming!

Except Ray..at first. He's wary and with reason but also intrigued in spite of himself. What ensues is a complicated story that will keep readers turning pages until the very end...which comes way too soon. I wasn't ready to leave Last Chance but luckily this is the first in the A Place to Call Home series so it isn't really goodbye, just so long for now.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Welcome to Last Chance, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday August 4 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

July Giveaway - Week Four

As always, I will contact the winners by email however thanks to the nefarious ways of the internet my email might land in your spam folder so keep your eyes peeled! :-) If you haven't heard from me by Monday evening please email me your snail mail address at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. From time to time winners and I don't seem to connect, so I have a month frame. If I can't reach you within four weeks your win will be forfeited and I will add an extra win to a future draw to even things up.

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK'S GIVEAWAYS:

Please note that I'm also participating in two blog tours this week which will have their own giveaways so these Love Inspired books will be reviewed on Monday, Thursday and Friday.

Angels in the Fire

STADLER, DANN
ANGELS IN THE FIRE

An Amazing True Story of Angelic Intervention in a Desperate Situation

The Stadlers' harrowing journey began with a midnight crash caused by a drunk driver. The odds they would both survive the crash were minimal--a testimony to the miracles that began that night and continued through months of surgeries and hospitalizations. The Stadlers struggled to rebuild their lives, only to face more heartache and loss. But through the hard times, their faith grew as God continued to save them from despair and bring blessings into their lives.

For everyone seeking a deeper faith or affirmation of their belief in a good God, this book will provide hope and the reassurance that God still ministers through his angels today.

My Review:

A stirring witness that is sure to inspire readers. The Stadlers' testimony confirms that God is still in the miracle making business -- if we have the grace to receive it. Their inspiring story of faith  in the face of adversity is uplifting and challenged me to look more closely at my own faith journey. A modern day affirmation that God is indeed invested in his children.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Healing Hearts

GIVEAWAY

DALEY, MARGARET
HEALING HEARTS

Love's Healing Power

After surviving a tragic accident, little Madison Winters is in desperate need of comfort. And social worker Abbey Harris has the perfect solution. With the help of her cherished therapy dogs, Gabe and Cottonball, Abbey soon coaxes a smile from Madi - and her workaholic guardian.

Dominic Winters is heartbreakingly handsome and is hurting just as much as Madi. But it might take more than wagging tails to get the brooding businessman to open his heart. With the help of a matchmaking little girl and two sweet dogs, Abbey and Dominic may get a second chance at love.  Caring Canines: Loving and loyal, these dogs mend hearts.

My Review:

I know I'm going to love Margaret Daley's new series, Caring Canines. I love dogs and have been fascinated by various types of service dogs for a long time. Healing Hearts is the perfect story to start up the series. The dogs take their secondary character roles seriously and easily stole my heart. Therapeutic in real life, I think some of their calming charm worked its magic on me while I read.

Daley has written a powerful love story amidst the very real emotions following a tragic event. Madi has a power of hurt wrapped up inside her and Dominic is at a loss on how to help his little sister until he reluctantly lets Abbey and her menagerie into their lives. That's when the hurt of betrayal and loss finally begins to ease under the social worker's gentle insistence. This is such a true-to-life story with all its pitfalls and pain but laced with such hope that it can't help but conclude in a happy ending.

Readers note: It's also the perfect book to share with your four-footed friends! My dog Simba says it's pawsitively pawsome!

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Healing Hearts, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday July 28 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

The Courting Campaign

GIVEAWAY

SCOTT, REGINA
THE COURTING CAMPAIGN

The Nobleman and the Nanny

Emma Pyrmont has no designs on handsome Sir Nicholas Rotherford—at least not for herself. As his daughter's nanny, she sees how lonely little Alice has been. With the cook's help, Emma shows the workaholic scientist just what Alice needs. But making Nicholas a better father makes Emma wish her painful past didn't mar her own marriage chances.  Ever since scandal destroyed his career, Nicholas has devoted himself to his new invention. Now his daughter's sweet, quick-witted nanny is proving an unexpected distraction. All evidence suggests that happiness is within reach—if only a man of logic can trust in the deductions of his own heart.

My Review:

Exquisite detail in both character and setting make this a 'be swept away into another time and place' kind of read. The author has taken exceptional care with characterization and I loved the way Nicholas approaches every problem with a scientific hypothesis. I'm still grinning over some of his conclusions. Scott combines a winning mix of humour, drama and romance. The result is a memorable story that will uplift and satisfy.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of The Courting Campaign, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday July 28 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

May the K9 Spy

Kav asked for my help with this review since I have more of a handle on all things canine. Arrrooooo! Besides I like to read with my human and I especially like it when she reads about four-footed heroes and heroines. Like:

May is the heroine of two books with a third set to come out sometime this year. Arrrrrrffffff (wagging tail madly) -- I can't wait! If you like fur-raising adventure you'll like May's story. Kav says she's a kind of canine James Bond with a bit of Maxwell Smart thrown in. I think that's a good thing. I just know I like how May's adventures keeps my tail wagging and my tongue lolling.

May's the perfect heroine. She's got spunk and heart and a sleek silvery coat and the cutest whiskers. Sigh. I was a goner on page one. She's got a unique Schnauzer voice that emotes well with my sheltie brogue. I think we'd be a match made in heaven...or Paris...except for the

C-A-T

 

Yeah. There`s one of those in the book. A Parisian feline. (lip curls up to expose recently cleaned pearly white canines.) Grrrrr. But I have to admit that Leonce wasn`t that bad...for a...well, you know!

But I still think a French poodle would have made a good secondary character instead.  That`s just my humble opinion though. Mickey the Mouser next door begs to differ. We got into a fight over it...but then we never got along anyway. As far as I`m concerned, dogs belong on one planet and cats belong on another and don`t get me started on voicing my opinion on squirrels.

That`s my highest rating, just so you know. I liked all the unexpected plot twists even if the action got my hackles up a time or too. Grrrrr. And there were some surprises I didn`t see coming. I love it when an author keeps me on my toes. That`s why May and KC Frantzen deserve my four paw salute.

You can find May`s books at Amazon.com -- and BONUS -- May Finds A way : Peril in Paris is free all this week so go download it NOW!

http://www.seasonsofhumility.blogspot.ca/2013/07/launch-of-may-k9-spys-blog-tour.html

Songstone

GIVEAWAY

GOLDFINCH, LENA
SONGSTONE

Kita can meld song into stone. In a world with no written word, storytelling--the ability to meld (or magically impress) song into stone--is greatly honored. The village honors her master as their medicine man, but Kita knows he's secretly a sorcerer who practices black magic using drops of her blood. She fears he'll use her beautiful gift for a killing spell, so she conceals it from him. Each day, his magic tightens around her neck like a rope. His spells blind the villagers, so they can't see him for what he really is.

Not that anyone would want to help her. She was found in the forest as a baby and would have died if a village girl hadn't brought her home. But the villagers saw Kita's unusual coloring and decided she belonged to the mysterious tribe who lives in the forests of the volcano, a people feared for their mystical powers. So they fear her too. Now seventeen, she can barely admit her deepest longing: to know who she really is and where she belongs.

Then Pono, a young journeyman, arrives from the other side of the island. He's come to fulfill a pact between their villages: to escort a storyteller back to his village--a storyteller who'll be chosen at the great assembly. Finally, in Pono, Kita sees her one slim chance at freedom and she'll risk her life to take it.

A dark, twisty tale of sorcery, tummy-tingling romance, and adventure, inspired by the folklore of New Zealand's Māori people.

My Review:

Rich descriptive text creates vivid images of a lush island paradise entombed by dark magic. This is a gripping fantastical tale of the power of believing in yourself and the need to have some place -- and someone -- to belong to. 

Kita's village is caught in the thrall of her evil magician master. Only she can see him for what he really is though she is still powerless against him. It takes an outsider to show her that freedom is within her grasp.

The journeyman, Pono, is the perfect romantic match for Kita. Like fire and water, they clash often enough to keep things interesting, but when they connect -- ohlala, be still my wildly beating heart! Goldfinch knows how to create romantic tension.

A wonderful, fulfilling read with plenty of action for fantasy and romance fans fourteen and up.



Giveaway Opportunity:

Songstone is currently only available in e-book format. I'm offering it, and another fantasy by Lena Goldfinch, Aire in a two-for-one giveaway. OR, if you are willing to wait a few weeks the paperback copies of Songstone will be available. Winners choice -- 2 ebooks or 1 book book. :-) To enter the draw for these e-books, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday July 28 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

WAIT -- DON'T LEAVE JUST YET. THERE'S MORE OPPORTUNITIES TO WIN IN THE BLOG TOUR GIVEAWAY:

The author is doing a sweet summer giveaway in conjunction with the blog tour! The giveaway is open internationally, and one winner (randomly drawn) will receive:

·       http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/15cee37/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway

Shock Wave

GIVEAWAY

MENTINK, DANA
SHOCK WAVE

Trapped...with a killer?

When an earthquake rips through San Francisco, the last person journalist Sage Harrington expects to run into is ex-soldier Trey Black. After what they survived in Afghanistan, she doesn't know if she can face him again. But now they're trapped in the bowels of a ramshackle opera house on a mission to find Sage's missing cousin. And they may not be the only ones. Someone is desperate to keep them from discovering the truth. With time running out and devastation and danger all around, Sage and Trey must put their trust in each other to make it out alive.

Stormswept: Finding true love in the midst of nature's fury

My Review:

Just when you think you've read all the suspense scenarios possible, an author comes up with a unique twist that not only ups the suspense, but the entire gasp factor of the story. I mean, who would think of setting a suspense novel in the middle of major earthquake for heaven's sake? Well, Mentink did with amazing results. Shock Wave is fabulously creative and a great first in the Stormswept series by Love Inspired Suspense. I just couldn't put this one down.

Loved the fact that Sage and Trey have an edgy past that creeps into their equally as edgy present. It upped their awareness of each other and heightened the fear factor as well. Talk about emotions leaping off the page!!!! It's mind boggling to think that the timeline of this book is just a few days...and nights. My heart still hasn't slowed to normal yet! This is a truly stunning romantic suspense that you don't want to miss. Really!

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Shock Wave, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday July 28 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

This Is Our Love : Engaging the Needs of Our World Through Worship

GIVEAWAY
 

CROSS, JODY
THIS IS OUR LOVE : ENGAGING THE NEEDS OF OUR WORLD THROUGH WORSHIP

BOOK AND CD

What does it mean to truly live a life of worship?

What does the Bible say about the Father’s heart for the poor? About justice and compassion in action? What does it actually mean to lay down our lives for the broken?

 

In this unique compilation, singers / songwriters from across Canada have come together to seek God’s heart in answering these challenging questions.

 

This new Worship CD features the worship music of 16 top Canadian artists and musicians. The companion 160 page devotional book, written by Dr Jody Cross, reveals the story and biblical truths behind each song.

 

This resource will inspire your heart, spark your thoughts, and propel you forward in your efforts to honour the Giver. May you be impacted and challenged to truly do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God.

16 Song Worship CD

Canada has been blessed with a wealth of gifted musicians who are passionate about Christ and about creating music that challenges and encourages the Church in its mission of proclamation and compassion. This worship CD features the music of 16 of these Canadian artists. Churches are encouraged to incorporate these songs into their worship life.

 

My Review:

 

 What an amazingly unique approach to a devotional! I don't have an ounce of musical talent but I am always moved by worship music. I find that sometimes I am more receptive to the lyrics of a song than I am to the words in a sermon so I was thrilled to receive a copy of This is Our Love to review.

And I have to say that the book has moved and inspired me as much as the music. It is divided into sixteen sections -- one for every song on the CD. Each section includes song lyrics, a devotional and follow up activities -- Lift it up (prayer), talk it out (discussion) walk it out (personal action).  The words are simple but hard hitting; the prayers heartfelt and the discussion questions and challenge to action uplifting in their simplicity. CD and book combine to make a powerful witness of Christ and how we can change our lives to honour Him.

Uniquely Canadian in content, I can't resist the opportunity to share this gently used CD and book with the world :-)

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of This is Our Love : Engaging the Needs of Our World Through Worship, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday July 28 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

"Book has been provided courtesy of World Vision and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available at Churches.WorldVision.ca/resources".

July Giveaway - Week Three

CONGRATULATIONS!
(cool fact: random.org selected the #8 for each of
the three book draws this week. What are the odds?)

won by Tammi

won by Jo

won by rubynreba

As always, I will contact the winners by email however thanks to the nefarious ways of the internet my email might land in your spam folder so keep your eyes peeled! :-) If you haven't heard from me by Monday evening please email me your snail mail address at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. From time to time winners and I don't seem to connect, so I have a month frame. If I can't reach you within four weeks your win will be forfeited and I will add an extra win to a future draw to even things up.

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK'S GIVEAWAYS:

Please note that I'm also participating in two blog tours this week which will have their own giveaways so these Love Inspired books will be reviewed on Monday, Thursday and Friday.

I am so excited about this
new series! I'm fascinated by service
dogs so throwing them into
a romance novel has me ecstatic!!!

Amazing twist to a romantic suspense!
And this is the first in a new series too!

Exquisite historical romance!!!!!

Blog Tour Books:

Choose Justice : A Daily Lifestyle

CAMPOLO, TONY
CLAIBORNE, SHANE

Most of us are aware that we have a  role to play in making our world a more just and equitable place, but we’re not sure where to start. In Choose Justice, participants will discover that they are not alone on the journey to justice. God loves justice too and longs for His people to follow Him in bringing restoration to our world and to those who have been left on the margins of society. Choosing justice a daily basis—at the mall, at the table, in our celebrations—will change our lives, the lives of those around us and the lives of people we may never meet. With Christ, we can participate in building a better world through the many choices we make every day.

My Review:

Compelling and controversial, Campolo and Claiborne challenge Christians to rethink the way they live in the world...and in the church. This DVD is divided into six sections all about choices. Each 10 minute segment involves a passionate discussion between Campolo and Claiborne that definitely left me with lots to ponder. Choosing justice encompasses way more than I thought it did and, until viewing this DVD, I considered myself to be a very social justice conscious person!

Choose Justice : A Daily Lifestyle means exactly that -- choosing justice as a lifestyle, at the table, in our celebrations, at the mall, at the bank and in the community. It provides the viewer a chance to break free of worldly 'truths' and the accompanying discussion guide gives suggestions and encouragement on how to affect the changes necessary.

Filled with simple truths like " buy less, love more, laugh louder", Campolo and Caliborne make the daunting task of change seem doable. While definitely suited for independent study, I think this DVD would make the most impact in a group setting -- perfect for churches, small group studies and even high schools. It will definitely change your life...and bring you closer to God.


"DVD has been provided courtesy of World Vision and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at Churches.WorldVision.ca/resources".

Small Town Girl

GIVEAWAY

GABHART, ANN H.
SMALL TOWN GIRL

How long can two people stand on the brink of love without plunging in headfirst? In the autumn of 1941, rumors of war whisper through Rosey Corner. The town practically vibrates with apprehension, as if it is holding its breath. But for Kate Merritt, it seems life is letting out a prolonged sigh. As Kate watches her sister marry the man Kate has loved since she was fifteen, her heart is silently breaking. And even the attentions of Jay Tanner, the handsome best man, can’t draw her interest. Then suddenly, Pearl Harbor changes everything and Kate finds herself drawn to Jay in surprising ways. Could she truly be in love with him? And if he enlists, will she ever see him again? In her gentle and textured style, Ann H. Gabhart tells a timeless story of love, sacrifice, and longing that will grip your heart and stir your spirit. Fans of Gabhart’s Angel Sister will love seeing Kate Merritt all grown-up, as well as other characters they have come to love.

My Review:

What an amazing, rich read. From the setting to the characters to the plot, Gabhart delivers a stunning story that left me sated.  I am still spellbound by Rosey Corner and her captivating inhabitants. The sequel to Angel Sister, this is Kate Merritt's grown-up story. It reads fine has a standalone though. I didn't read the first book but am hankering to now. Honestly the tone of Small Town Girl has left a lingering mood that still clings to me. A wonderful mix of wonder and faith and the magic of discovering love.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Small Town Girl, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday July 21 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Grace's Pictures

GIVEAWAY

THOMSON, CINDY
GRACE'S PICTURES

Grace McCaffery hopes that the bustling streets of New York hold all the promise that the lush hills of Ireland did not. As her efforts to earn enough money to bring her mother to America fail, she wonders if her new Brownie camera could be the answer. But a casual stroll through a beautiful New York City park turns into a hostile run-in with local gangsters, who are convinced her camera holds the first and only photos of their elusive leader. A policeman with a personal commitment to help those less fortunate finds Grace attractive and longs to help her, but Grace believes such men cannot be trusted. Spread thin between her quest to rescue her mother, do well in a new nanny job, and avoid the gang intent on intimidating her, Grace must put her faith in unlikely sources to learn the true meaning of courage and forgiveness.

My Review:

Thomson had me at Irish immigrant and Ellis Island. My Irish heritage is always clamouring for more Irish heroes and heroines. Erin Go Bragh! In addition, this turn of the century historical has an incredibly unique twist that adds the spice of suspense to an already gripping tale.

The depth in characterization and the impossible but historically accurate situations made this a riveting read. It wasn't long before I was lost in another place and time, riveted by emotions that leapt off the page and wrapped around my heart. Grace has a traumatic past to overcome and her unwillingness to trust brings her close to disaster more then a time or two.

Grace's Pictures will evoke images and feelings you won't soon forget. It is a moving tribute to the courageous immigrants who made their way across Ellis Island in the hopes of creating a new and better life. An exceptional read.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Grace's Pictures, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday July 21 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

Fatal Inheritance

GIVEAWAY

ORCHARD, SANDRA
FATAL INHERITANCE

“You don't belong here."

Someone wants to stop Becki Graw from claiming her inheritance. Police officer Joshua Rayne is just as determined to keep his beautiful neighbor safe. She may not be the tomboy Josh remembers, but she’s just as stubborn. Becki is intent on keeping her grandparents’ remote farmhouse-no matter the danger. Becki’s feelings for her childhood crush may be rekindled, but she’s seen too much to risk opening her heart. As the threats against Becki escalate, the list of suspects grows longer. Josh must convince Becki to trust him with her heart-and her life-before a madman ends their chance at happiness…permanently.

My Review:

My garden hates Sandra Orchard. That's because I spent the last non-humid day devouring Fatal Inheritance instead of weed wrassling. Now I have to get up at five a.m. and slink out into the garden to do my weeding before the heat and humidity become unbearable, all the while keeping an eye out for skunks meandering on home. The sacrifices I make for a favourite author!

My downfall was sneaking a peek before heading out with gardening gloves in hand. A thrill shot through me at that first sinister warning: "You don't belong here." Before I knew it I was flipping pages and gobbling up words consoling myself with the thought that as soon as I found a good spot to stop I would. Only there wasn't a good spot...well there were lots of good spots for avid readers, not so many for desperate-need-to-stop-reading readers. That's because Orchard keeps the pace spiraling with intrigue and surprises and lots of gasp-out-loud moments.

And then there's Josh. Who can resist a handsome protective police officer in full protection mode? Not I, that's for sure! Becki had moments where she tried to resist his lure, but I knew it was a losing battle from chapter one. :-)

I'll just sum this one up by saying fantastic not to be missed summer read for romantic suspense lovers! In fact Love Inspired Suspense wowed me with their selection this month. Stay tuned for more LI reviews next week.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Fatal Inheritance, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday July 21 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

July Giveaway - Week Two

IS IT HOT ENOUGH FOR YOU?!

won by Nicole

won by bonton

won by Nancee

As always, I will contact the winners by email however thanks to the nefarious ways of the internet my email might land in your spam folder so keep your eyes peeled! :-) If you haven't heard from me by Monday evening please email me your snail mail address at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. From time to time winners and I don't seem to connect, so I have a month frame. If I can't reach you within four weeks your win will be forfeited and I will add an extra win to a future draw to even things up.

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK'S GIVEAWAYS:

Compelling suspense!!!!

Interesting twist to this historical plot!

Rich read!