Review of Don't Keep Silent by Elizabeth Goddard

About the Book ~

Justice comes easy for these two. But forgiveness? That's another matter altogether.
Investigative reporter Rae Burke will do anything to find her missing sister-in-law, even if it means facing Liam McKade, a man who almost lost his life saving hers. A former DEA agent, Liam thought he could find peace at his Wyoming ranch, but he doesn't feel at home anywhere anymore. When the reporter who blew his cover on an important investigation inserts herself back into his life, he's less than thrilled. But Rae's keen investigative skills have led her down the right path--and directly into the dragon's mouth--leaving Liam no choice but to protect her.

As the danger increases, the past they both tried to flee catches up to them, along with the feelings they once had for each other . . .

For more information about Elizabeth Goddard and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Ready for a mystery that will have you shifting the story's sands for that one and only clue that will tie everything together? If so, then Don't Keep Silent by Elizabeth Goddard is for you!

In addition to an intricate mystery -- no spoilers! -- there was several key aspects that I really loved in Don't Keep Silent! I loved the setting! The author does a wonderful job bringing this town in Wyoming to life, and the wildness of the land reminds me of my own backyard. Additionally, one of the things I was delightfully surprised to find in Don't Keep Silent was the representation for the Autism Community. As a mom to a young child with Autism, I love seeing Autism represented in stories! While this wasn't a huge focus in Don't Keep Silent, the fact that it was represented there at all blessed my heart!

The spiritual dynamic in Don't Keep Silent was more subtle. Due to Liam and Rae's history, they're struggling to forgive each other -- or are they? In reality, this was a convenient façade they each donned in order to keep them from dealing with the real issue -- that they are both uniquely called to protect those can't cry out for help. They are individually struggling with the painful realities of that calling and the traumatic ways it has impacted their lives. Because of this, they are afraid to open their hearts -- and each other -- up to the pain that love can bring. I loved that once they stripped that façade away and looked this fear in the face, they bravely choose one of the scariest gifts God gives us: love.

Three Stars ~ Don't Keep Silent by Elizabeth Goddard is an intricate mystery that will keep you asking questions! Don't Keep Silent is the third book in the author's Uncommon Justice Series. The overall mystery can be read as a standalone, but readers will understand the family dynamics better if the series is read in order.

Possible triggers ~ Death, abduction, human trafficking.

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of The Heart of a Hero by Susan May Warren

About the Book ~

Jake Silver may not be able to put the memories of his time as a sniper and Navy SEAL behind him, but at least he can put his skills to use as a part of the Jones Inc. rescue team. Saving the life of pediatric heart surgeon Dr. Aria Sinclair on Denali helped too. Now he can't get her out of his head, and when he hears she is in the path of a hurricane down in Key West he can't help but jump on a plane to rescue her.

Aria has dedicated her life to helping children born with defective hearts. After all, she was one of those children. Now driven to succeed, she lives a lonely, stressful life. One she would have lost on Denali if it hadn't been for Jake. Jake is exciting and handsome, but he's also dangerous, and she's already lost one person she loves. She can't bear it again.

It's not until she finds herself trapped in the middle of a category 4 hurricane that she can admit she needs Jake desperately. With their very survival in the balance, can they hope for a second chance at life . . . and love?

For more information about Susan May Warren and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Find a place to huddle down while reading The Heart of a Hero by Susan May Warren because you will be swept away by this epic story! The Heart of a Hero features Jake and Aria -- who readers got to know a little through an excellent setup in The Way of the Brave -- as they fight against their hearts, their false narratives, and the brute strength of a hurricane! Like...why aren't you reading this book right now?

The hurricane angle in The Heart of a Hero hooked me right away! This had such a disaster movie vibe -- with an incredible faith angle, but more on that in a moment! Between the ragtag crew, the danger from the storm itself, and the danger the storm unleashed (no spoilers!), each new development had my eyes rushing to keep up with the flipping pages. And my little scaredy-cat self is thankful I got to experience these terrifying ordeals from the safety of my cozy nook!

As the title suggests, Jake and Aria struggled with their hero hearts. Jake believed himself to be more villain than hero; Aria believed her life to be a mistake, causing her to fear actually living life. And God's heart leapt from the pages as Jake and Aria grappled with surrendering their hearts to Him. This story is for anyone who has ever believed they must be worthy of forgiveness through the qualifying lens of a debt that can never be repaid while an internal shame megaphone reminds them of this over and over again. This story is for everyone because it proclaims these freeing truths: we are forgiven, washed clean, and loved.

Four Stars ~ The Heart of a Hero by Susan May Warren is thrilling, healing, and not to be missed! The Heart of a Hero is the second book in the author's Global Search and Rescue Series. This could be read as a standalone; however, the backstory and an on-going mystery will be more easily understood if the series is read in order.

Possible triggers ~ Death, traumatic situations, physical attacks.

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of The Key to Everything by Valerie Fraser Luesse

About the Book ~

Peyton Cabot's fifteenth year will be a painful and transformative one. His father, the heroic but reluctant head of a moneyed Savannah family, has come home from WWII a troubled vet, drowning his demons in bourbon and distancing himself from his son. A tragic accident shows Peyton the depths of his parents' devotion to each other but interrupts his own budding romance with the girl of his dreams, Lisa Wallace.

Struggling to cope with a young life upended, Peyton makes a daring decision: He will retrace a journey his father took at fifteen, riding his bicycle all the way to Key West, Florida. Part declaration of independence, part search for self, Peyton's journey will bring him more than he ever could have imagined--namely, the key to his unknowable father, a reunion with Lisa, and a calling that will shape the rest of his life.

Through poignant prose and characters so real you'll be sure you know them, Valerie Fraser Luesse transports you to the storied Atlantic coast for a unique coming-of-age story you won't soon forget.

For more information about Valerie Fraser Luesse and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Despite whatever I subconsciously expected to find in The Key to Everything by Valerie Fraser Luesse, I was not prepared for the way this story would WRECK me with its BEAUTIFULNESS!

You can't prepare for it, dear readers. But you can read it and experience it for yourself. Because it's a journey that should not be missed!

The author has a real talent for immersing readers in the era and the setting! In the span of a few words, I was transported into Peyton's world. I was surrounded by the stuffy, backstabbing Cabot family. I was biking down the A1A to the island world of Key West in 1947. I was transformed by the new experiences, people who loved their neighbor, and hardships that only offer two options: grow stronger or remain stuck.

Peyton's coming-of-age story truly moved me! The "keys" to where Peyton came from, the man he was growing into, and the opportunities to love had me crying every few pages! However, the aspect that undid me the most was the way Peyton's story intersected with Kate's (Peyton's mother) unconditional love and journey through grief. Marshall's (Peyton's father) heart-twisting story lays out the story of a man with more good in him than not, a man who made mistakes, a man Peyton could learn from even in the end. The truth that your bad choices -- even choices with devastating consequences -- don't have to define your life for eternity is a narrative that is so very needed in this world! The Key to Everything challenges her readers to learn and grow with a beauty that will wreck you!

Five Stars ~ I can't recommend The Key to Everything by Valerie Fraser Luesse enough! The Key to Everything is a standalone, but the author has other titles in her backlist for readers to enjoy!

Possible Triggers ~ Grief, death of a loved one.

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of At Love's Command by Karen Witemeyer

About the Book ~

He's fought through ruthless outlaws and injury. But with her, he's tempted to surrender.

Haunted by the horrors of war, ex-cavalry officer Matthew Hanger leads a band of mercenaries known as Hanger's Horsemen who have become legends in 1890s Texas. They defend the innocent and obtain justice for the oppressed. But when a rustler's bullet leaves one of them at death's door, they're the ones in need of saving.

Dr. Josephine Burkett is used to men taking one look at her skirts and discounting her medical skills. What she's not used to is having a man change his mind in a heartbeat and offer to assist her in surgery. Matthew's dedication to his friend during recovery earns Josephine's respect, and when her brother is abducted, he becomes her only hope for rescue.

When plans go awry and Josephine is caught in the crossfire, Matthew may have to sacrifice everything--even his team--to save her.

For more information about Karen Witemeyer and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

If you're a fan of action-packed westerns, romance, and soul-stirring faith, then pick up a copy of At Love's Command by Karen Witemeyer! From setting, pace, and character development, the author certainly delivered a commanding story that readers will love!

My favorite aspect of At Love's Command was definitely the characters! I really loved each of the men in Hanger's Horsemen! I loved their sense of loyalty, chivalry, and duty. Their brotherly bond brought a huge smile to my heart. While I adored Matthew Hanger -- leader of Hanger's Horsemen -- I'm really hoping for a story from each of the Horsemen's perspectives.

The book blurb wasn't kidding when it said Matthew Hanger was haunted by the horrors of war! From the heartbreaking start at the Wounded Knee Massacre to his devastating childhood, the death and devastation Matthew witnessed twisted my gut. However, the author did a superb job at not dwelling on graphic atrocities, instead using these to shape Matthew and his vow to remain unattached. Enter Josephine, the kind of strong heroine who makes me grin! With her "ten-dollar words," her spunky bucking of convention, and her steadfast faith as she forged her way in a profession largely dominated by men in that era, how could I not love her?

In the midst of a plethora of life-and-death situations raging around them, Josephine and Matthew's faith journeys were -- blessedly! -- gentler. The way their individual relationships with God were strengthened was like a gentle rain on a sun-scorched desert. From the way Josephine had to relinquish her control of painful, scary situations to the beautiful way the author used God's divine provision to help free Matthew from the fear of losing those he loved, readers will be convicted by the grace and love of God.

Four Stars ~ At Love's Command by Karen Witemeyer is an action-packed western filled with romance and faith! At Love's Command is the first book in the author's new Hanger's Horsemen Series, and I am eager to see what's next for Hanger's Horsemen!

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Book Three Cover Reveal!!!

That's right! It's time for the COVER REVEAL of Kaylee's story!!!

If you participated in the cover survey in my last newsletter, thank you again! I am so incredibly thankful for each vote and comment! You guys rock!

You'll remember from that newsletter that I was on the cusp of a Vizzini breakdown over this particular detail, so the awesome team at WhiteFire Publishing proposed the idea of a survey. You know, to put me out of my misery. LOL!

Based on the votes and comments, you guys were just as split as we were! However, a majority vote eventually took shape, and almost twice as many votes to this dramatic, gorgeous redirection.

To all my fellow OCD people, I know. Really. I know. But trust me when I say that this cover is perfect on every. single. level. for Kaylee's long-awaited story.

Are you ready?
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Am I annoying you yet?
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TA-DAH!!!

Kaylee McGrurd feels like life has left her behind. Her best friends have all moved out, married, or are in the process of matrimony. Meanwhile, she’s lost another job, and her daily diet consists of noodles that are better suited as packing material.

Then Kaylee’s ex, Gabe Sanders, enters the equation.

Gabe walked out on Kaylee without warning or explanation nine years earlier, but now he’s been brought back to the area for the unforeseen future. And he’s in need of new lead vocalist for his wedding band.

A dwindling account balance calls for desperate measures, and Kaylee reluctantly accepts Gabe’s offer. While the former couple works together in the midst of happy marriages and heartfelt melodies, secrets and the need for forgiveness highlight the strife between them…and the hope that maybe God’s rewriting the conclusion to their story.

Available November 2020!

As you can see, the cover to Kaylee's story is STUNNINNG!!! While I love every single detail, I think my favorite part is the microphone.

Because that microphone is a piece of my heart.

I sing. I sang for a long time, and I've started singing again. While I'm definitely an amateur, those of you who've been with me since the beginning may recall that I started writing songs before I dove into stories. I plotted Kaylee and Gabe's story at a time in my life when I had closed the door on singing. For good, I thought.

God knew differently.

You guys...the journey MY life took while writing Kaylee and Gabe's story is incredible, and the journey Kaylee and Gabe's story took is incredible! I can't wait to share it with you this coming November! For now, I hope you enjoy the fun snippet below!

Sneak Peak ~

“I need a singer. For my band.”

            I blink. I would have expected some vague encouragement or referring me to a friend of a friend. But asking me to sing in his band? I at least expected something legit.

            “I’m not in high school anymore, Gabe. I’ve got nine years of wrinkles around my eyes to prove it. I need a real, grown-up job that can pay the bills and ensure that I don’t have to sell vital organs to keep a leaky roof over my head.”

            “This would pay the bills.”

            “A band?” I raise my eyebrows. “Do you have a record deal or something?”

            “We’re a wedding band called All Yours. Trust me, it pays the bills and then some.”

            “A wedding band?” I scoff. “Do you not see the irony in that?”

            “I didn’t until you pointed it out right then, no.” Gabe at least has the decency to look sheepish.

            I hate that his sheepish expression is still cute. It’s infuriating!

            I stand up, scooping my shoes by the straps and dumping them into my purse. “I wish you a lifetime of Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler moments with your wedding band and some other gullible sap, someone who still believes in the power of love or recently had a head injury. But that person won’t be me. So goodbye, Gabe. I’m sure we’ll meet again at the next most inopportune moment of my life.”

Thank you for celebrating another cover reveal with me! What is YOUR favorite detail? I would love to know!

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of A Mosaic of Wings by Kimberly Duffy

About the Book ~

Nora Shipley has one goal--to carry on the legacy of her late father by taking over the scientific journal he started. To that end, she's fought to be taken seriously among her male classmates and graduate as valedictorian of Cornell's entomology program. When pressures to settle down rise to a fever pitch, she impulsively joins a research expedition in Kodaikanal, India, to prove herself in the field and win a scholarship.

But India holds several surprises--she is impressed not only by the beauty of its natural wonders, but also by the gentle nature she discovers in the rival classmate who accompanied her, Owen Epps. Instead of exploring, however, she is forced by the expedition leader to stay at camp and illustrate exotic butterflies the men of the team find without her. During the many quiet days, Nora befriends Sita, a young Indian girl who has been dedicated to a goddess against her will.

In this spellbinding new land, Nora is soon faced with impossible choices--between saving Sita and saving her career, and between what she's always thought she wanted and the man she's come to love.

For more information about Kimberly Duffy and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

A Mosaic of Wings by Kimberly Duffy is an enchanting journey that's as lovely as the title suggests, but in the midst of that journey is a mosaic of beautiful truths and lessons that are just waiting for readers to notice their shimmering details.

A Mosaic of Wings is one of those stories where I didn't realize how invested I'd become in the characters and their stories until I reached the final page. And as I reflect on each colorful piece of this journey, I think the only words that truly exemplify how I feel are too simple. However, I'll say it anyways -- READ THIS!

The setting and the era are -- simply put -- stunning! From New York to India in 1885, from the halls of Cornell University to hidden waterfalls, to all the fascinating (and sometimes gross) parts of entomology, A Mosaic of Wings' fictional expedition will capture her readers from the start. Furthermore, the author crafted characters with such depth, successfully evoking feelings of empathy for even the dislikable, villainous characters. Wonderfully done!

The story is told from Nora's point of view, and I loved her character! Nora was everything I expected to find in a strong woman making a career in a field that was largely thought to belong to men in that era. Additionally, I loved that she had to confront some of her biases and soften the hard parts in her heart that had formed as a result of unfairly having to prove herself as a woman. However, the most profound part of Nora's journey was internal, a journey that took her into the heart of sacrificial love. As she explored each facet of sacrificial love, Nora came to see the little details she'd previously missed, the little yet powerful details that make up the great mosaic that is love.

Five Stars ~ A Mosaic of Wings by Kimberly Duffy is a stunning debut! A Mosaic of Wings is a standalone, but I look forward to reading whatever the author pens next!

Possible Triggers ~ Death of a loved one, suicide, child prostitution.

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!