"Tangled Webs" by Irene Hannon

Tangled Webs (Oct. 4, 2016) by Irene Hannon.*

Sometimes a tranquil getaway and/or hideaway is not so tranquil. The peacefulness is broken the first night former Army Ranger Finn McGregor hears a scream. It’s from his nearest neighbor in the fictional rural town of Beaumont, MO (not far from Potosi), which is situated adjacent to the very real Mark Twain National Forest. Dana Lewis is having another nightmare. Finn, mortified that he barged in and scared Dana even more, tries to redeem himself by proving a very hard worker, fixing a door and the dock, tending an overgrown flower garden, etc. But Finn’s presence is a balm when someone disquiets Dana’s peaceful environment. The initial prank seems to escalate in menace. Could that menace escalate into violence or even death? Finn will have to rally his combat instincts, and both will have to overcome personal trauma to face what is to come. But amidst the darkness and the danger, perhaps they will also find light and love.

            “Tangled Webs” is an inspirational fiction, romantic suspense novel that is a blend of light and darkness, questions and answers, desperation and prayer, the tranquility of a place loved and the chaos of things gone awry, whether past or present. The storyline is like a puzzle in which all the pieces fit snugly together – that is to say, each part of the story supports the other parts and works cohesively; it makes sense. Still, I was expecting more from this book. Based on the jacket copy and even the cover and title, the storyline seemed so intriguing, but the suspense seemed a little lagging, likely because the antagonist was not a secret. I want there to be unexpected twists and turns. Unfortunately, I did not get that here. But the story is well-written with a solid plot and strong main and supporting characters.

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are expressly my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

"When Love Arrives" by Johnnie Alexander

When Love Arrives (Sept. 20, 2016) by Johnnie Alexander.*

Call it spying or call it stalking, but Dannaleigh “Dani” Christina Prescott was purposefully following Brett Somers, a young, handsome millionaire. However, it was an accident that they met. Too soon, Dani is off to a classic movie after introducing herself as Regina Lampert, and Brett is undeniably and inexplicably drawn to her. That one movie turns into seeing her the next day and the next. Soon, Dani is drawn into Brett’s world, ever aware about her real reason for being in Columbus, Ohio, and perfectly aware of his modern-day Casanova reputation, yet she can’t help admitting that he’s a much different person than she pictured. It goes against the one grain she had to propel her to track him in the first place. The grain in which Brett vehemently denounced Dani’s mother, who had piloted a plane that killed his parents. It also killed Dani’s mother, and it is his defamation in one interview that has led her to where she is now. A now in which they are clearly drawn to each other. Dani knows she has to tell Brett that she knows who he is and how, and Brett knows Dani is keeping a secret. What will happen when the truth is out? Will their budding attraction survive the resurfaced pain?

            This contemporary romance, inspirational fiction novel is written well. The characters are uniquely fleshed out, despite the ever-popular feature that all the characters are extremely attractive. As smartly written as this novel is, I’ll admit that it moved slower for me than I’d have liked, though not slow enough to quell my interest in possibly picking up the third installment when it’s released. As indicated, friendship will shift to budding romance, but don’t forget the big secret that Dani keeps from Brett. This isn’t only a story of romance, but of forgiveness on multiple fronts and giving it to the Lord to see one through it. There is also reconciliation with the Lord, even in such a seemingly simple way as coming back to prayer. Although I didn’t love the story, there is dimension to it.

            I want to close with a quote from a character named Aaron. He’s paraphrasing something Aristotle said in response to a question asking Aaron if he ever gets angry. He says, “I won’t get it exactly right, but he said something about the key to anger is having the right amount at the right time about the right situation. We’re not good at that. People in general, I mean.” (p. 256) We have all seen that, probably even in ourselves. Not our best moments and not the best of others, either. So if you’re angry, find an outlet that is not a person. Preferably an inanimate object, like a punching bag!

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are expressly my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

"A Lady Unrivaled" by Roseanna M. White

A Lady Unrivaled (Sept. 13, 2016) by Roseanna M. White.*

Some believe the Fire Eyes are cursed, while others think it nothing more than a fable, but they’re still causing a world of trouble. Lady Ella Myerston is used to everyone talking over and around her, as if she cannot comprehend when a dangerous situation arises, but she hides a mind full of knowledge under red hair (“…really, anyone can see it’s auburn”) with easy smiles and guileless banter. But she’s vowed to take action and plants herself at Ralin Castle, home to her friend, Brook, who also happens to be the Duchess of Stafford.

            Lord James Cayton, cousin of the Duke of Stafford, hasn’t led a life he’s proud of, though he is proud of his infant daughter, Lady Adelaide Azerly, known affectionately as Addie. But Addie’s mom – his wife – died before he could convince himself that he loved her. And while the Fire Eyes remain hidden – or are they hidden in plain sight? – their absence agonizes one of James’ old acquaintances. When Rush arrives in his home unannounced with his emotionally distressed sister, Kitty, his loyal valet, Dorsey, and Kitty’s new lady’s maid Kira (going by the name Sohpie Lareau), James is awash with worry about keeping safe Addie and Ella. Yes, he is intrigued by the stubborn Ella with the fiery hair. However, it does not stop a bad feeling. His valet, Evans, gives him sound advice, “As my mum would say, don’t go borrowing tomorrow’s troubles, my lord, when today’s are troubling enough.” Some words to live by!

            In this ultimate novel in the Ladies of the Manor trilogy, I was not disappointed. While not reviewed on my blog, I did read the second novel right before jumping into this one. I was again swept back to an upper-class past where the characters are well-rounded and down-to-earth despite their caste. It remains evident that the author did her research and, in turn, has created a literary landscape that is rich, detailed and historical, but not historical in the way that a dreaded history teacher might drone on and on about dates and possible points of interest that may or may not wind up on an exam or pop quiz. All the various titles and nicknames continue to throw me off at times, but I very much enjoyed this book and the entire series. I think fans of Downton Abbey would enjoy this series, if they’re looking for an intriguing set of books. I can’t wait to see what Roseanna M. White writes next!

            Book 1: “The Lost Heiress”

            Book 2: “The Reluctant Duchess”

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are expressly my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”