Showing posts with label Mary Alford. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mary Alford. Show all posts

Oct 31, 2020

Amish Christmas Miracles- Various authors


 


You guys today I sit down with Mary Alford one of the authors from the up coming book Amish Christmas Miracles.  Stick around for a giveaway and find out how to enter. 


Blurb: 
Spend Christmas in Amish country.

As snow falls softly outside the window, curl up by the fire with this collection of 14 stories by your favorite Amish fiction authors. Let them transport you to Amish communities all across the country.

Travel to small towns where horses clip-clop down the road, farms dot the snow-covered landscape, and families gather to celebrate the real meaning of Christmas.

Sigh over sweet stories that touch your heart. Laugh, cry, rejoice, and smile as couples renew their faith and find their perfect soul mates.

These heartwarming tales of faith, hope, love, and Christmas miracles are a special gift to you from Kathleen Fuller, Lenora Worth, Adina Senft, Laura Bradford, Jennifer Beckstrand, Jennifer (J.E.B.) Spredemann, Rachel J. Good, Serena B. Miller, Mary Alford, Loree Lough, Dana R. Lynn, Susan Simpson, Tracy Fredrychowski, and Ashley Emma.

May you be richly blessed this holiday season!  


*So, I have three of your books on my TBR pile when I started this one, do you find it hard writing back to back books like that? Keeping things separate?

 

It is hard at times, especially when you shift between genres such as suspense and Amish romance like in Amish Christmas Miracles. Which is why I make lots of notes for each book I’m writing. That includes character bios, setting information, and a detailed story outline. If I’m working on a series, such as my Courage Under Fire series, the story information can become quite long. 

    

*I know this Story is in a book with 13 other stories and then you have another mystery book with 9 other authors. Do you enjoy collaborating with others? 

 

I do enjoy working with other authors. I have had the privilege of collaborating with some incredibly talented authors and I have learned something from each of them. When you put together so many different voices into one collection, you have something for every reader no matter the genre.        

 

 

*This story is centered around Christmas which hands down for me is one of my favorites, what is your favorite holiday? What do you enjoy most about that holiday?

 

Oh, I agree with you, Sarah. Christmas is my favorite holiday, too. I love it when the holiday decorations start showing up at the stores because making the house feel special for Christmas is so much fun. It is a holiday filled with a hope that came with the birth of our Savior. His birth, death, and resurrection changed everything for our world.  

 

 

*So, I love when authors write children into books and make them shine and I feel like you did that with Lyddie! Do you have a favorite character in this book or any of your upcoming books? And do you find it hard to write about kids and their personalities? 

 

Lyddie was so much fun to write. I love her excitement at moving to a new location. She and I have one thing in common, she loves the snow about as much as I do. 

Kids are interesting to write about in that they are just honest and straightforward. I love their enthusiasm for life and the simple trust they have. It makes me wish we could all be like that. It’s a shame life has a way of taking away that curious wonder we have as children.   

I also enjoyed writing Abigail and Simon’s story. Their romance touched my heart. Two former sweethearts reunited. The mistakes that drove them apart in the past are worked out and they find the happily-ever-after they so deserve.     

 

 

Thank you so much for always being willing to work with me and for all the amazing books. I cannot wait for all these books you have coming out!!!

 

Thank you, Sarah. I so appreciate your support. For authors, it means the world to have readers spread the news about our books.   


Where to buy the book :

www.amazon.com

www.barnesandnoble.com

books.apple.com



Ok now that you have made it to the end I want to take a moment again to thank Mary for stopping by and answering my questions. Now for the giveaway follow the steps below and be entered to win a copy of Amish Christmas Miracles. 


Disclosure- None of the authors in this book are involved in this giveaway and I am only responsible for the giveaway. Winner are chosen at random and will receive a kindle version of this book. 


Giveaway link

 

 

Feb 26, 2020

Interview with Mary Alford-------Giveaway is closed------


Yall I am so happy to be able to sit down with Mary and find out some fun stuff stay till the end of the Interview to enter to win a book by Mary Alford. Thank you Mary for sitting down with me to do this interview. 
Mary-Thank you, Sarah, for reaching out to me!
I wanted to start off with some random questions and then I will jump in to your books. Ok let's get started. 

  • What are some of your Hobbies?
Is reading considered a hobby? I’m huge reader. My Kindle is full of books and I keep adding to them almost every day. And in our neighborhood, we have our own reading club. The ladies of the neighborhood pass around the books they’ve read. Right now, I have a bag full of books to read. Unfortunately, there doesn’t seem to be enough time to read everything that I want to read. 

In addition to reading, I love to play the piano. For me, playing Christian songs on the piano is another way to draw closer to God. A form of worship. 

I also play at gardening, (I say play because I mostly have a black thumb), and I love doing crafts, especially around Christmas time. 

  • Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

For me, coffee is a necessity. I can’t start my day without two cups of Starbucks House Blend, (though I think it’s mostly mental since I drink decaf). 
  • What’s your favorite go to meal?
Hum, that’s a hard one. Most of our meals are simple, but if I could name one meal that’s a favorite, I’d say its homemade pizza with everything, and I mean everything, on it. 


  • I know some authors like to have certain snacks or drinks while they write, do you have a favorite snack food or drink around why you write?
I do! I’m a huge fan of peanut butter M&Ms and Bai Coconut Water. It’s hard to write without them. They’ve become part of my routine, although only a handful of the M&Ms. The Bai Coconut Water, well, I don’t feel bad about drinking them. 

  • Do you or did you have a person that inspired you to write?

My husband has always been my biggest supporter. He encourages me to keep going when sometimes that’s not an easy thing to do, and when I fail, he props me up. He’s amazing. I can’t imagine doing what I do without him. 
  • Do you have a Favorite place to write?
I know a lot of authors have offices and I do as well, but more times than not, I’ve got my laptop in my lap and I’m in my recliner with the TV going, or not. I can write either way. 

  • Do you have a favorite author?
Yes, I have many. But the two that most inspire me are Lynette Eason and Christy Barritt. These ladies are dynamos. Not only are the amazing storytellers, but they are humble and giving women. I’ve asked them both for advice many times and they’re always willing to help. 

  • I love that you write suspense it seems like very book I have ever read by you always have me on the edge of my seat. Is there something that inspires you to write suspense?

I’d say it’s what I enjoy reading more than anything, and I love the challenge of pitting good and against evil. Though I’m the author and I know the outcome going into a story, the journey to get to that happy ending can be challenging and thrilling to write. I love that! 


  • Out of all your books do you have a favorite?
I know its corny, but my favorite is the next book I’m writing. I just turned in another Amish Suspense set in West Kootenai, Montana, and I hated to see it end. Now, I’m starting a new spy story for the next installment of the Cost of Redemption series, and I’m chomping at the bit to tell CIA Director Coleman Dean’s story. 


  • I know you just released two books this month Blackbird and Amish Country Kidnapping do you have a favorite character in either one of these stories?

I love how broken the heroine in Blackbird, Sara Hersberger, is. She survived her father’s abuse only to believe he’s a serial killer. How do you get beyond that? Both Blackbird and Amish Country Kidnapping are second chance stories where the hero and heroine had once been in love, but for different reasons, their romance didn’t survive. Now they have a second chance. Those types of stories are favorites of mine. 

  • Both stories are Amish based do you find it hard to keep the stories close to their Authenticity even though these are fiction books? 

Amish stories in particular are hard to write, because there are religious beliefs that the Amish adhere to that must be respected. I do tons of research to make sure that I do justice to the Plain way of life, but yes, it is hard, especially when you have an Amish hero or heroine and someone who isn’t at the time of the story. 

  • Which scene was most difficult to write?
In my March release, Amish Country Murder, I have a heroine who is being held by a serial killer. Writing about how desperate she felt while being held hostage, and then the terrifying escape scene were so hard to write. I wanted to keep them real, but there were limits to what I could put in the book. Writing about bad guys can be difficult. 


  • Were there scenes you ended up cutting you wish you could've kept? 

Having to cut scenes is hard. Off the top of my head, I’d say having to tone down some of the scenes to fit the story is the hardest for me. All of my books are Christian books, so it’s a balance to keep the stories real, and yet not offend anyone. 

  • If you can, can you tell us what is next?
I just turned in my November Love Inspired story that is again set in West Kootenai, Montana, and it is the first book in a series about the Shelter brothers. The first book features Aaron Shelter and a woman who is on the run and hiding out near the community. 
I’m also working on book four of the Courage Under Fire series. It is entitled Chinook Winds. It is the final in this series but will introduce another exiting series to come. 


Well thank you again for Taking the time to do this interview
-Thank you, Sarah, for inviting me to share this time with you. 

Now for the fun part click on the link below to enter to win a book by Mary. I love all her books so I am happy to be giving one away. Thank you all so much for stopping by so glad to have you here. Hope you enjoy the interview as much as I did. 



Where you can connect with the author:

While at your favorite bookstore/website check out Mary Alford's other books, You will not be disappointed. Thanks for stopping by and feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments. 

Aug 27, 2019

summer of suspense sixteen tales Multiple Authors



Description:

Long Days. Hot Nights. Deadly Secrets.

Start your summer off right with 16 gripping and never-before published tales of Christian suspense from today's most popular mystery and suspense authors.
Join Mary Alford, Christy Barritt, Patricia Bradley, Vannetta Chapman, Mary Ellis, Debby Giusti, Rachel J. Good, Ruth Hartzler, Shaen Layle, Ruth Logan Herne, Loree Lough, Elizabeth Ludwig, Nancy Mehl, Serena B. Miller, Samantha Price, Alana Terry on a dangerous journey filled with mystery, suspense, and faith that that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.


My thoughts on the book:
Ok so I am going to post my book review on this book in sections as there are 16 books by 16 authors so I will say I am excited to read all these authors some new and some favorites. 


Storm Warning Mary Alford-
Oh my goodness this book will have you turning the pages just to find out what happens next. I so wish there was more to the story if just flew by and kind of ended in a cliffhanger, or at least leaves you wanting more. Mary Alford is one of my favorites in this book she sucks you in and you will not be disappointed at all 


Where you can buy the book:
www.amazon.com

Where you can connect with the author:
maryalford.net

While at your favorite bookstore/website check out Mary Alford's other books, You will not be disappointed. Thanks for stopping by and feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments. 

Jun 22, 2019

Love’s Truest Hope- Mary Alford, Rachel J. Good, Laura V. Hilton



Description:
Mission of Love

A nontraditional Amish man called to minister to the inner-city youth. An overwhelmed Amish woman terrified of the idea. When lies and manipulators threaten to destroy her life, she’s forced outside her comfort zone. Will she learn that God’s love spreads to more than just her people?

Bid for Love

The top bidder in the Amish silent auction wins a day of yardwork from Marty and two of his friends. But why did this wealthy Englischer pay so much money when she has a professional lawn service? Marty is shocked to when she offers him money to turn her granddaughter Amish. He refuses, but when Olivia and her grandmother both end up missing, Marty is fingered for the crime. How can he ever prove his innocence when all the clues the police find point to his guilt?

Plain Redemption

Spring is a long way in coming to the Big Sky country of Montana, and Lyddie Hershberger is still living in the winter of her life. First her husband died a little more than a year earlier, then Lyddie lost their unborn child. Now, an accident sends her father-in-law to the hospital clinging to his life. Will the gloom of winter ever leave their West Kootenai community?  
When word of his daed’s accident reaches Thomas Hershberger in Colorado, he rushes home to find all his old sins waiting for him there, along with the woman who destroyed his heart. His brother’s widow, Lyddie Hershberger. 
After someone breaks into the family home while Thomas and Lyddie are at the hospital, it soon becomes apparent that his father’s accident is anything but. 

As Lyddie and Thomas struggle to understand why someone wishes their family harm, old feelings of love resurface. Is it possible for Thomas to overcome the guilt he feels for his part in his brother’s death and convince Lyddie that their love can melt any heartache standing in their way?


My thoughts on the book:



Mission of love-

This book was cute. I found it interesting that in this story the author in a roundabout way mentioned that the way the Amish in this community were living was almost cult like. I guess I never really thought of it that way. I really enjoyed how Jace stood strong in his faith no matter what he faced. I liked how he also encouraged and tried to bring those he loved and cared about closer to God his love and actions. Over all I really thought this story was super cute

A Bid for love-

The story overall was cute. However I kept waiting for the next ball to drop, I guess I can say the author keeps you guessing on what’s really going on up till the last chapter. The love between Olivia and Gram was so sweet very much a clean read.

Plain Redemption 

Sometimes the pain of loosing someone you love and guilt has a way of eating at you. This story just had away of getting to you in the heart. It draws you in and you find yourself not wanting to put the book down so you can find out what’s going on next. It keeps you on the edge of your seat and leaves you guessing till the end. Finding forgiveness is never easy no matter how you look at it.

Overall all three stories where really good. I liked how each had a lesson to learn. Each were a good clean story and well worth the read. It seemed like each story just flew by.


Where you can buy the book:
www.amazon.com

Where you can connect with the author:
Mary Alford
Rachel J. Good
Laura V. Hilton


While at your favorite bookstore/website check out Mary Alford, Rachel J. Good, Laura V. Hilton other books, You will not be disappointed. Thanks for stopping by and feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments. 

Sep 29, 2018

Grave Peril Mary Alford-



Description:
Mountain Ambush
Reunions can be deadly
Jamie Hendricks always believed her late father was innocent of murder…and now her uncle claims to have proof. But when she arrives in her hometown, her uncle has vanished—and someone wants her dead. Jamie’s ex-boyfriend, CIA agent Gavin Dalton, is the only person she trusts…even if he believes her dad killed his father. But can he help her uncover a deadly conspiracy that goes deeper than anyone expected?

My thoughts on the book:

This book was really good, and it does not disappoint. The story is almost like a game of hide and seek, Jamie and Gavin are trying to find her uncle but they are not the only ones an now those same people seem to be after them. So you can imagine the excitement and the twist and turns the author throws it truly is a page turner and you find it hard to put down. It was like you just need too know whats going to happen next. I loved Jamie and her big heart and the healing that Gavin needs and how no matter what happened in the past they both kept fighting. This book was certainly one you will not regret reading. 

Where you can buy the book:
AMAZON
BARNES & NOBLE
CHRISTIANBOOK.COM

Where you can connect with the author:
Mary Alford


While at your favorite bookstore/website check out Mary Alford's other books, You will not be disappointed. Thanks for stopping by and feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments. 

Sep 2, 2018

Sweet Christmas Kisses 5 - Beate Boeker, Liwen Y. Ho, Christine Bush, Milou Koenings, Josie Riviera, Roxanne Rustand, Kristin Wallace, Mary Alford, Jean C. Gordon



Description:
Fill your holiday stocking with love and 9 sweet romance novellas, from USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly, and award-winning authors.

Sweet Christmas Kisses 5 brings you contemporary romances that celebrate the joy of the season around the world, including snowy Maine and the sun-kissed skies of Florida, the mountains of Colorado to small-town Illinois and Virginia, New York to San Francisco, and even the glittering lights of Paris and the old-world charm of Florence. The Sweet Christmas Kisses 5 bundle features all-new, standalone novellas that will make you smile and warm your heart with the Christmas spirit.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE POKER GROUP by Beate Boeker, USA Today bestselling author. After losing her beloved grandmother and getting dumped by her boyfriend, Sabrina is left feeling like Scrooge this Christmas. She makes a plan to survive the holidays in Florence, only to realize her grieving grandfather has a plan of his own. One that involves the crazy Mantoni family and the distractingly handsome man she’s determined to avoid.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE CARMICHAELS by Christine Bush, USA Today bestselling author. Widow and retiree, Gabby, is ready for a rocking chair. At least according to her daughter. After getting stranded in a Maine snowstorm with a silver-haired fox, Gabby might find the courage to say “yes” to life once more, and find a Christmas love she never expected.

THE MISTLETOE BACHELOR AUCTION by Milou Koenings, USA Today bestselling author. When a supermodel with a string of bad news boyfriends “wins” a volunteer firefighter at a charity bachelor auction, Rose and Ryan might both discover they’ve found their perfect Christmas match. A fun and romantic holiday tale set in the fictional town of Green Pines, Illinois.

SWEET PEPPERMINT KISSES by Josie Riviera, USA Today bestselling author. Sometimes the best gifts are hiding right under your Christmas tree. His emotions were once trampled flat. Can he throw his heart over the fence toward the ultimate Christmas gift—a future filled with love? A holiday tale about the healing power of love.

CHRISTMAS IN PARIS by Roxanne Rustand, USA Today bestselling author. Heather, a Kindergarten teacher, thought all her dreams were coming true—until she was jilted by her fiancé three months before their Christmas wedding. Since the honeymoon to Paris is already paid for, Heather decides to go solo. When a handsome young doctor literally runs into her on the street, the magic of Christmas in Paris may cause a change of heart.

SECOND CHANCE CHRISTMAS by Kristin Wallace, USA Today bestselling author. Ten years ago, Mia Reynolds and Win Barrington spent one magical Christmas together. Until Win’s wealthy family tore them apart, and left Mia to raise a daughter on her own. Now, both have returned to their hometown. Can Mia and Win rediscover the love they once lost?

GHOSTS FROM CHRISTMAS PAST by Mary Alford, Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author. She was the love of life, until a tragic accident on Christmas Eve left Charlotte Swenson in a coma. For eight years, Sheriff Dylan Parker of Bitter Creek, Colorado has held on to hope. When Charlotte opens her eyes, just days before Christmas, Dylan can’t help but believe a holiday miracle.

CHRISTMAS PIZZA TO THE RESCUE by Jean C. Gordon. When a freak winter storm strands them alone at the Team Macachek barracks in Central New York, champion motorcross racer, Royce Evans, and out-of-work investigative reporter, Samantha Linder, strike a bargain that benefits them both. Will the spirit of Christmas be strong enough to save their blossoming holiday love?

THE LOVE CLAUSE by Liwen. Y. Ho. He needs a fake girlfriend to advance his career. She needs a pretend date to keep her mom off her case during the holidays. The solution to both of their problems? A contractual relationship with one clause: neither of them can fall in love. A Christmas tale set in romantic San Francisco.


My thoughts on the book:

GHOSTS FROM CHRISTMAS PAST by Mary Alford, Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author. She was the love of life, until a tragic accident on Christmas Eve left Charlotte Swenson in a coma. For eight years, Sheriff Dylan Parker of Bitter Creek, Colorado has held on to hope. When Charlotte opens her eyes, just days before Christmas, Dylan can’t help but believe a holiday miracle.


Out of all the 9 books I only read Ghost of Christmas past for now. I really love this author's other books that I have read and this one did not disappoint. While this was a short story, it was amazing. A real page turn, its not something I have read about in other books so it was unique story line in that case. If you have ever read and of Ms. Alford's other books you know that she rights a bunch of Mystery Romance, this book is romance but just amazing as her others. I really loved that this is a good clean read, its also a quick read for sure. I wish there was more in the end, however just as good either way. 

Where you can buy the book:
www.barnesandnoble.com
www.amazon.com

Where you can connect with the author:
Beate Boeker
Liwen Y. Ho
Christine Bush
Milou Koenings
Josie Riviera
Roxanne Rustand
Kristin Wallace
Mary Alford
Jean C. Gordon




While at your favorite bookstore/website check out all the Author's other books, You will not be disappointed. Thanks for stopping by and feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments. 

Jun 25, 2018

Standoff At Midnight Mountain Mary Alford



Description:
Her brother is missing
And she’s the next target
After her CIA operative brother disappears, leaving behind only a cryptic message, armed men target former agent Rachel Simmons for information. But with help from her ex, Agent Alex Booth, Rachel eludes them, trekking into the mountains in search of her brother. Pursued through the wilderness by highly trained—and very familiar—men, can Alex and Rachel expose a conspiracy that goes deeper than they ever imagined?

My thoughts on the book:

Her brother has gone missing and she knows in her heart something is not right. When she reaches out to her former partner she wonders what could be next for all of them since now it seems they are after her and she doesn't know why. He sets off to his hometown to help find his best friend but when he shows up knows it's not what it seems. Can they find Liam before it is too late?
This book was amazing. I really did enjoy it, oh so much it kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. It was like a game of cat and mouse throughout the whole book and who don't know who the good guys are or the bad guys, because of this the author did an amazing job and keeping you guessing all the way to the end. This book is a good clean read and it will keep you on the edge from beginning to end. You won't regret grabbing this book its a quick read but well worth it. 


I received an advance copy. I was under no obligation to post a review and have given my honest opinion


Where you can connect with the author:
www.maryalford.net
While at your favorite bookstore/website check out Mary Alford's other books, You will not be disappointed. Thanks for stopping by and feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments. 

May 28, 2018

Layers of the Truth Mary Alford


Description:
When Cady Russell receives a heartbreaking call from Deputy Sheriff Aamon Lone Elk telling her that her sister has died in a fire that mimics the one that took her parents’ lives twenty years earlier, Cady knows she has to return to Wyoming to find out what really happened to Samantha.

Deputy Sheriff Aamon Lone Elk knows a little about grief himself. He lost his wife to a drunk driver five years earlier. Aamon still isn’t able to move beyond the pain. Yet meeting Cady Russell throws him. She is both beautiful and strong, and he is attracted to her right away.

Cady has been lost in the past as well, unable to move beyond the tragedy that claimed her parents. Now her sister is dead by the same means, and she is convinced the two fires are related.

As the attraction between them continues to grow, can Aamon keep Cady safe as they peel back the layers of lies connected to the two fires? Or will a killer bent on keeping his deadly acts secret send them both to their graves?


My thoughts on the book:

Cady has lost her parents at a young age, and now she gets the call she has dreaded she lost her sister. It seems so close to the loss of her parents. Aamon hates the part of his job notifying next of kin he just never expected when Cady to show up his life to be thrown off kilter. Can they get to the bottom of all of this before someone else ends up killed?

 I loved this book, so good this book keeps you on the edge of your seat for sure. I loved how in the midst of losing her sister Cady keeps fighting for whats right and how Aamon seeks out healing. This book is a good clean read and is amazing. It's a short story but its packed full of adventure that won't leave you disappointed. This book is worth the read grab it you won't be disappointed.

Where you can buy the book:
www.amazon.com


Where you can connect with the author:
www.maryalford.net


While at your favorite bookstore/website check out Mary Alford's other books, You will not be disappointed. Thanks for stopping by and feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments. 

May 25, 2018

Eye of the Storm Mary Alford



Description:

Former CIA Agent Kate Reagan finds herself in the middle of a storm that has disrupted her life for six years. When Kate’s entire team was killed by the terrorist they’d been chasing for months, Kate finds the only way to save her life is to pretend to lose it.

After moving dozens of times through the years, Kate ends up in the small mountain town of Soaring Eagle, Wyoming where everything about the place screams of the home she’s been longing for.

Running into Deputy Sheriff Brady Connors, Kate finds herself attracted to the handsome frontier lawman right away, but having a future is not possible while the enemy is still stalking her.

With Brady’s help, Kate is about face the showdown she’s been expecting for a long time when the enemy coming after her proves to be closer than Kate could ever imagine.


My thoughts on the book:

When Kate lands in Soaring Eagle Wyoming she wants this to be the last time she has to up and leave, but it seems like even though she just got her they may have already found her. When Brady stumbles across a stray dog it seems he may have stumbled upon a lot more. Can Kate trust Brady with her secrets, to protect her and can they work together before she runs again or someone else ends up dead?
OH, my goodness where do I even begin with this book it was so good. From the very first page to the last it was a real page-turner, could not put it down, had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I loved that it was a good clean read. It was short, simple to the point but pack with an amazing story. I have never been disappointed by this author and this book was very much the same you will not regret reading this quick read. Oh, and I have to say Callie was my favorite her personality just jumped off the pages.


Where you can buy the book:
www.amazon.com

Where you can connect with the author:
www.maryalford.net


While at your favorite bookstore/website check out Mary Alford's other books, You will not be disappointed. Thanks for stopping by and feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments. 

Past Sins Mary Alford


Description:
She almost died at the hands of a madman. Will she survive another dance with the devil?

FBI Agent Samantha Morning Star barely survived a serial killer’s knife when the Night Slasher captured her, intent on making her his next victim. Samantha’s narrow escape still haunts her, sending her fleeing to the one place where she has always felt safe. The Durante Mountain Cheyenne Indian Reservation in Northern Wyoming. But Samantha’s past sins are all there waiting for her. The young boy she once loved and left behind is now all grown up and the chief of police for the reservation.

Chief Zack Standing Elk can’t believe it. The woman who tore his hearts to shreds is back. But Samantha isn’t the same person she once was when she left the reservation behind after her grandmother’s death, insisting that he not wait for her. Samantha is one troubled soul. It isn’t long before he realizes the reason behind the fear in her eyes, when the killer who took her hostage follows her to the Cheyenne reservation determined to claim her as his once more.

With the clock ticking on the Night Slasher’s latest victim, Zack’s past sins come back and haunt him as well. Can he find out the Slasher’s true identity before he takes another innocent life? And will he be able to stop the killer who is coming after Samantha full force?

My thoughts on the book:
Samantha has been running from the past and it seems that she's running home in hopes to run from the present danger. Zack could not believe his eyes when he walked up on Samantha he knows she's hiding something but he doesn't know what and he will stop at nothing to find out.

This book was so suspenseful and literally has you guessing from the beginning to the end. This is not part of a series but the other two book based in this area by the same author LAYERS OF TRUTH and EYE OF THE STORM seem like they all go perfect together. This one did not disappoint at all. I loved the compassion of Zack and I loved the strong independence of Sam, but also that she was willing to ask for help when she needed it. Each of the characters in this book, as well as the other two just seemed relatable and it made you feel like you were catching up with friends.  This is a short read but well worth it, you can't go wrong. This is a good clean read which made the book that much more enjoyable. 

Where you can buy the book:
www.amazon.com

Where you can connect with the author:
www.maryalford.net


While at your favorite bookstore/website check out Mary Alford's other books, You will not be disappointed. Thanks for stopping by and feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments. 

Dec 5, 2017

Top 25 Christian books of 2017 also giveaway CLOSED

 


So, I sat down and went over some of the books I have read over the last year and narrowed them down my top 25 favorite Christian books. These are in no particular. They would make the best Christmas gifts for your favorite book reader in your household. You may see a few from the same author, they had no influence in my choosing of this list. These are book I just have loved reading and want to read again and also really look forward to or have already added to my home library. 




1.  You're Gonna Love Me- Robin Lee Hatcher

Who knew fate could twist a tragedy into a second chance at love?
Samantha Winters lives her life the way a good accountant should—measured, deliberate, and safe. After watching her father die in a tragic skiing accident, she decided never to allow risk into her life again. But she didn’t count on falling for Nick Chastain, who embodies everything she doesn’t want in her safely constructed world.
Against Samantha’s warnings, Nick plans a dangerous kayaking trip over spring break. Furious that he’s so careless with his life, she ends their fledgling relationship with harsh words.
Two years later, Samantha is desperately in need of a change. When she learns her grandmother has had an accident and is in need of a caretaker, Samantha quickly packs her bags and heads to Thunder Creek, Idaho. But nothing could prepare her for the surprise awaiting her in her grandmother’s hospital room . . . Nick.
With the charming backdrop of small-town friends, beloved cousins, and a whole church congregation rooting for them, can they set aside the disastrous ending of their first try at love? Has Nick changed enough to meet Samantha in the middle—and can she realize that a risk in love might 

be worth taking?

Where you can buy: www.amazon.com, www.christianbook.com, www.barnesandnoble.com




2. Time to Come Home- Dorthy Shackleford


The fireplace is lit, the snow is falling, and sleigh bells echo in the distance—it’s Christmas, and it’s time to come home.  Thirty-five-year-old Heath Sawyer has finally made it to the big-time as a country music star. After a year full of the kind of success he could only dream of, it’s December 23, and he’s headlining a sold-out show at Madison Square Garden. It’s only as the lights on the stage go down and the Christmas lights outside come on that Heath realizes there’s just one place he wants to be for the holidays: back home in Okmulgee, Oklahoma.

But journeying anywhere on Christmas Eve is never easy, and with flight delays, inclement weather, and the unexpected company of a feisty young woman who’s about to become his traveling companion, Heath will need a Christmas miracle to make his way home in time to open presents.

Filled with touching anecdotes inspired by the real holiday memories of Blake Shelton and Dorothy Shackelford, Time for Me to Come Home is a sweet and funny story that celebrates the spirit of Christmas and the true meaning of finding your way back home.

Sometimes the best gift on Christmas is sharing it with the ones you love.




Where you can buy: www.amazon.com, www.christianbook.com, www.barnesandnoble.com




3.The View from Rainshadow Bay- Colleen Coble

After her husband, Jack, dies in a climbing incident, Shauna has only her five-year-old son and her helicopter charter business to live for. Every day is a struggle to make ends meet and she lives in constant fear of losing even more than she already has.
When her business partner is murdered, his final words convince Shauna that she’s in danger too. But where can she turn? Zach Bannister was her husband’s best friend and is the person she blames for his death. She’s barely spoken to him since. But right now he seems her only hope for protecting her son. Zach is only too happy to assuage his guilt over Jack’s death by helping Shauna any way he can. But there are secrets involved dating back to Shauna’s childhood that more than one person would prefer to stay hidden.  In The View from Rainshadow Bay, suspense, danger, and a longing to love again ignite amid the gorgeous lavender fields of Washington State.






4. Belle- Sarah Price
In author Sarah Price’s fresh and inspirational retelling of a beloved classic, a dutiful young Amish woman agrees to marry a notorious recluse for her family’s sake—but the consequences are more than either bargained for . . .
To most townsfolk, he’s known simply as The Beast. Annabelle Beiler has little interest in gossip, but she’s heard about Adam Herschberger’s scars and his gruff, solitary ways. Though he sounds like a character from one of Belle’s treasured books, the man is real and, it turns out, just as unreasonable as the rumors claim. When a buggy accident wipes out the last of her daed’s money, forcing him to sell their farm, Adam buys it. Then he offers Belle a deal—marry him, and her family can keep their home.
Everyone is shocked by Belle’s decision, but she’s determined to be a good fraa, cleaning Adam’s rundown house and tending the overgrown garden. Breaking through her new husband’s icy reserve will be another matter. Belle’s courage and strength are abundant, but it will take true faith to guide Adam back to the heart of his Amish community—and to the loving marriage 
they both deserve.






5. Framed for Murder Mary Alford  
FALSELY ACCUSED Framed for helping her partner smuggle guns—and then murdering him—CIA agent Liz Ramirez must find the evidence that will prove her innocence…before she's caught or killed. So when her squad's leader attempts to bring her in for questioning, she knows her future depends on convincing Aaron Foster to go rogue and help her. On the run from the rest of her team and the gun dealers who are convinced she knows the location of their missing weapons, Liz risks losing the proof that would clear her name. But will eluding her pursuers—and trying not to fall for the handsome commander—prove to be fatal?






6.Taken Hostage- Jordyn Redwood
A DEADLY RANSOM When neurosurgeon Regan Lockhart’s daughter is kidnapped, the abductors want to make a deal for the little girl’s life. If she wishes to ever see her child again, Regan must hand over the virus she uses in a radical cancer treatment. But bounty hunter Colby Waterson can’t let her trade the cure, which is his sister’s last hope. He’s already lost a wife and baby, and he won’t lose anyone else. But when a mistake leads both him and Regan into the hands of the bad guys, the kidnappers up their demands. Now Regan must create a biological weapon or her daughter dies. For Colby, no case has ever been this personal. He’ll need every skill he’s got, because only he can save both his sister and the woman he’s growing to care for.






7. Deadly Proof- Rachel Dylan
Riveting New Series Offers Legal Suspense with a Romantic Twist
In the biggest case of her career, attorney Kate Sullivan is tapped as lead counsel to take on Mason Pharmaceutical because of a corporate cover-up related to its newest drug. After a whistleblower dies, Kate knows the stakes are much higher than her other lawsuits.
Former Army Ranger turned private investigator Landon James is still haunted by mistakes made while serving overseas. Trying to forget the past, he is hired by Kate to look into the whistleblower's allegation and soon suspects that the company may be engaging in a dangerous game for profit. He also soon finds himself falling for this passionate and earnest young lawyer. 
Determined not to make the same mistakes, he's intent on keeping Kate safe, but as the case deepens, it appears someone is willing to risk everything--even murder--to keep the case from going to trial.

If you have never read anything by Rachel Dylan grab this book you will not be disappointed.





8. Heavenly Blues- Sarah Price 

In this powerful narrative, bestselling author Sarah Price takes us on the dark road to addiction.

Laura Reese is losing control. Compassionate and conscientious, she excels as a post-op nurse, but her new supervisor doesn’t care how much she needs time off. Although she’s a selfless wife and mother, news of her husband’s promotion only fills her with anxiety. The country-club lifestyle he craves triggers memories of the dysfunctional family she came from, and of her own mother’s single-minded ambition to climb the social ladder.

Laura has reached a breaking point. For her, there’s only one way to pull it all together, to balance the demands of her family and job, and to keep pleasing everyone she loves. But her little blue pills are pushing her closer to the edge…









9.Beneath Cooper Falls- Colleen Coble

Dana has already learned that love isn’t safe . . . but could it be different in Rock Harbor? 

As a 911 dispatcher, Dana Newell takes pride in being calm in tough circumstances. In addition to her emotionally-charged career, she’s faced enough emergencies in her own life. She recently escaped her abusive fiancé to move to tranquil Rock Harbor where she hopes life will be more peaceful.
But the idyllic town hides more danger and secrets than it first appeared. Dana is continually drawn to her new friend Boone, who has scars inside and out. Then she answers a call at her job only to hear a friend’s desperate screams on the other end. Soon the pain in her past collides with the mysteries of her new home—and threatens to keep her from the future she’s always wanted.






10. A Matter of Trust- Susan May Warren
Champion backcountry snowboarder Gage Watson has left the limelight behind after the death of one of his fans. After being sued for negligence and stripped of his sponsorships, he's remade his life as a ski patrol in Montana's rugged mountains, as well as serving on the PEAK Rescue team. But he can't seem to find his footing--or forget the woman he loved, who betrayed him. 
Senator and former attorney Ella Blair spends much of her time in the limelight as the second-youngest senator in the country. But she has a secret--one that cost Gage his career. More than anything, she wants to atone for her betrayal of him in the courtroom and find a way to help him put his career back on track. 
When Ella's brother goes missing on one of Glacier National Park's most dangerous peaks, Gage and his team are called in for the rescue. But Gage isn't so sure he wants to help the woman who destroyed his life. More, when she insists on joining the search, he'll have to keep her safe while finding her reckless brother, a recipe for disaster when a snowstorm hits the mountain. 
But old sparks relight as they search for the missing snowboarder--and suddenly, they are faced with emotions neither can deny. But when Ella's secret is revealed, can they learn to trust each other--even when disaster happens again?



11. Love Story- Karen Kingsbury 

From the day they met, John and Elizabeth were destined to fall in love. Their whirlwind romance started when they were young college students and lasted nearly thirty years—until Elizabeth died of cancer. So when John Baxter is asked to relive his long-ago love story with Elizabeth for his grandson Cole’s heritage project, he’s not sure he can do it. The sadness might simply be too great. But he agrees and allows his heart and soul to go places they haven’t gone in decades. Back to the breathless first moments, but also to the secret heartbreak that brought John and Elizabeth together.
At the same time, Baxter family friend Cody Coleman is working through the breakup of his complicated relationship with Andi Ellison. He is determined to move on when a chance sighting changes his plans—and heart. Can Cody convince Andi to give their love another try, or is it time for them to say goodbye for good? As school comes to an end, Cole presents his report on the love story between his grandparents John and Elizabeth Baxter. It is a tale that touches the hearts of the entire family, and one that causes Cole to better understand his own beginning. Whether you’re meeting the Baxter family for the first time or finding them all over again, Love Story will stir your heart and remind you of the generational impact of love and the eternal bond of family.




12. On a ring and a Prayer- Sandra D. Bricker 

Twelve years of marriage, 4,000 square feet of dream house, and a handsome husband. Jessie Stanton has it all . . . until one fateful afternoon when she notices her BMW bouncing by the window behind a tow truck. Her husband has gone, and he's taken it all. The whirling tornado that cuts down the life she's built drops Jessie onto the sandy beach of Malibu with a thud, penniless and alone. When all she's left with are the designer labels in her closet and the dreamy Neil Lane rock on her finger, Jessie tries to make ends meet by pawning her prized ring to fund a new business venture: a small shop where her designer duds and shimmering accessories are temporarily leased out to Southern California women with champagne tastes but root beer realities. As Jessie tries to rebuild, she realizes she can't move on, not without answers. Reluctantly, Jessie turns to beach bum/private investigator Danny Callahan for help. But is she staking her future success and happiness . . . on a ring and a prayer?







13.The Faded Photo- Sarah Price
Some things should be kept private. Frances Snyder can never quite get her mother’s voice out of her head—how to be the perfect wife, the perfect mother. Frances’s home life is demanding, and while she’s busy seeing to everyone else’s needs, Frances doesn’t have the luxury of spare time.
So when she is diagnosed with breast cancer, she thinks that she can handle it on her own. Dealing with endless tests, brutal chemotherapy, and the looming specter of surgery, Frances chooses to face cancer on her own terms: alone. That is, until she finally understands that unexpected friendship—and unconditional love—can offer hope in the darkest hours.
With tenderness, grace, and flashes of humor, bestselling author Sarah Price draws upon her own experience as a breast cancer survivor to create a story about one woman’s determined and solitary journey into the unknown—in hopes that she’ll find her way back home.






14. Rescue Me- Susan May Warren 

When Deputy Sam Brooks commits to something, nothing can sway him--not just on the job as liaison between the Mercy Falls sheriff's department and PEAK Rescue, but in his private life. He's the one who stuck around to take care of his mother after his father's accidental death. And he's the one--perhaps the only one--who believes Sierra Rose is the perfect girl for him. Safe, practical, and organized, she's nothing like her hippie, impulsive, bleeding heart sister, Willow.
Willow, however, has been in love with Sam Brooks for as long as she can remember. But she wants her sister to have a happy ending. Besides, Willow has other things to focus on--namely, nabbing the job as youth pastor for her small-town church. Best thing for her to do is to purge Sam from her heart. Neither can predict the events that will bring them together in a fight for their lives in the forbidding wilderness of Glacier National Park. Stranded, injured, and with the winter weather closing in, Sam and Willow will have to work together to save a crew of terrified teenagers. As they fight to survive, they might just discover a new hope for love.




 15. Raging Storm- Vannetta Chapman
In the Darkness, Anarchy Awakens

When a massive solar flare wiped out all modern technology across the globe, the small town of Abney, Texas, was thrown into chaos. Shelby Sparks and her teenage son, Carter, have found refuge, but Shelby knows she can't simply remain hidden. Carter is a type 1 diabetic in need of insulin—and Shelby will risk her life traveling to Austin to make sure he gets it.

Shelby's best friend and high school sweetheart, Max Berkman, won't even consider letting her make the perilous journey alone. Together, they manage to reach the capital—only to discover that while things are desperate in Abney, Austin has turned into an urban nightmare on the brink of anarchy. 

Shelby and Max's search for medical supplies will lead them into terrifying territory, where the only thing more uncertain than finding what they need is the hope of making it out of the city alive.





16. Return to Silver Bay- Lara Van Hulzen
Maggie Mitchell returns to her hometown of Silver Bay expecting to bury her father, her past, and move on. But when Josh Harden, her high school sweetheart, shows up, her world gets turned around.  Drawn to Josh, but afraid of their history, Maggie’s head tells her she can handle things alone, but her heart says otherwise. Recognizing a second chance when he sees one, Josh is determined to win Maggie’s heart once more and show her that she can trust love and begin again.




17.Restoring Love- Jennifer Slattery
Mitch, a contractor and house-flipper, is restoring a beautiful old house in an idyllic Midwestern neighborhood. Angela, a woman filled with regrets and recently transplanted to his area, is anything but idyllic. She's almost his worst nightmare, and she’s also working on restoring something—herself. As he struggles to keep his business afloat and she works to overcome mistakes of her past, these two unlikely friends soon discover they have something unexpected in common—a young mom who is fighting to give her children a better life after her husband's incarceration. While both Mitch and Angela are drawn to help this young mother survive, they also find themselves drawn to each other. Will a lifetime of regrets hold them back or unite them and bring redemption along with true love?
Restoring Love, part of New Hope Publishers’ line of contemporary missional fiction, demonstrates how God can turn our greatest tragedies and failures into beautiful acts of love and grace that can impact the lives of others. Readers will connect with the realistic characters and find they can relate to the complex situations that makes Jennifer Slattery's book so appealing. Readers will be inspired to see how God wants to use us to restore people's perception of love in action.






18. Fatal Mistake- Susan Sleeman 
An FBI agent must protect the woman who can identify a terrorist bomber in bestselling author Susan Sleeman's riveting romantic suspense novel.  Each day could be her last...but not if he can help it.
Tara Parrish is the only person ever to survive an attack by the Lone Wolf bomber. Scared and emotionally scarred by her near death, she goes into hiding with only one plan--to stay alive for another day. She knows he's coming after her, and if he finds her, he will finish what he started.
Agent Cal Riggins has had only one goal for the past six months--to save lives by ending the Lone Wolf's bombing spree. To succeed, he needs the help of Tara Parrish, the one person who can lead them to the bomber. Cal puts his all into finding Tara, but once he locates her, he realizes if he can find her, the Lone Wolf can, too. He must protect Tara at all costs, and they'll both need to resist the mutual attraction growing between them to focus on hunting down the bomber, because one wrong move could be fatal.




19. Moving Target- Lynette Eason
When Maddy McKay and Quinn Holcombe don't show up for Quinn's surprise birthday party, his friends know that something is very wrong. Their search turns up little beyond evidence that Quinn and Maddy just decided to take off for a long overdue vacation. But it soon becomes apparent that they did not leave of their own accord.  Maddy awakens in a cement room with no idea where she is. But it's not long before she realizes she's in the clutches of a madman exacting revenge by hunting. His prey of choice? Humans. Now Maddy and Quinn must run for their lives, hoping to find their killer before the next game begins. Because if they don't win this game, they die.
Fast, furious, and flirty, Lynette Eason's relentless suspense barely gives her readers time to catch their breath in this third thrilling installment of the Elite Guardians series.




20. Final Verdict- Jessica R. Patch
FATAL JUSTICE When Aurora Daniels becomes the target of someone seeking their own twisted justice, Sheriff Beckett Marsh is the only one who can rescue her. As a public defender, Aurora has angered plenty of people in town—and in her past. And while Beckett constantly clashes with the feisty lawyer professionally, it's his duty to protect and serve. Guarding her 24/7 is now his sole assignment. He may not have been able to save his fiancée from a dangerous felon, but he'll do whatever it takes to keep Aurora alive. Even if working with her to catch and convict this ruthless killer puts his heart in the crosshairs.


Now, who doesn't love a good set of books? 

Series:


 21. Cold Shot- Dani Pettrey

In college, Griffin McCray and his three best friends had their lives planned out. Griffin and Luke Gallagher would join the Baltimore PD. Declan Gray would head to the FBI and Parker Mitchell would go on to graduate school as a crime scene analyst. But then Luke vanished before graduation and their world--and friendships--crumbled.

Now Griffin is a park ranger at Gettysburg, having left life as a SWAT-team sniper when a case went bad. The job is mostly quiet--until the day he captures two relic hunters uncovering skeletal remains near Little Round Top. Griffin just wants the case to go away, but charming forensic anthropologist Finley Scott determines that the body is modern--a young social justice lawyer missing since spring--and all evidence points to the work of an expert sniper. When FBI agent Declan Gray takes over the case, past and present collide. Griffin soon realizes he'll need to confront some of the darkest days of his life if he--and those he cares about--are going to escape a downward spiral of murder that crosses continents.



22. Still Life- Dani Pettrey 
Blacklisted in the photography business over a controversial shot, Avery Tate answered an ad for a crime scene photographer. She expected to be laughed at, but crime scene analyst Parker Mitchell hired her outright--and changed her life. But six months ago, when her feelings for Parker became too strong, she left his employ to sort out her heart. 
Now, for the first time, Avery is facing the world that rejected her to attend the gallery opening of a photography exhibit and support her best friend, who modeled for the show. But the only image of her friend is a chilling photo of her posing as if dead--and the photographer insists he didn't take the shot. Worse, her friend can't be found. She immediately calls Parker for help. As Avery, Parker, and his friends in law enforcement dig into the mystery, they find themselves face-to-face with a relentless and deadly threat.


These next three I would have to say need to be read all together and they are so worth it!!!!


23. Ties That Bind- Cindy Woodsmall 

Ariana’s comfortable Old Order Amish world is about to unravel. Will holding tightly to the cords of family keep them together—or simply tear them apart?
Twenty-year-old Ariana Brenneman loves her family and the Old Ways. She has two aspirations: open a café in historic Summer Grove to help support her family’s ever-expanding brood and to keep any other Amish from being lured into the Englisch life by Quill Schlabach. 
Five years ago Quill, along with her dear friend Frieda, ran off together, and Ariana still carries the wounds of that betrayal. When she unexpectedly encounters him, she soon realizes he has plans to help someone else she loves leave the Amish. 

*Despite how things look, Quill’s goal has always been to protect Ariana from anything that may hurt her, including the reasons he left. After returning to Summer Grove on another matter, he unearths secrets about Ariana and her family that she is unaware of. His love and loyalty to her beckons him to try to win her trust and help her find a way to buy the café—because when she learns the truth that connects her and a stranger named Skylar Nash, Quill knows it may upend her life forever. 
 Where to buy: www.amazon.com, www.christianbook.com, www.barnesandnoble.com





24.Fraying the Edge- Cindy Woodsmall
Family, community, faith, and love. These “quilt blocks” sewn together made Ariana’s beautiful life.
When they are pulled to pieces,will anything familiar remain?
The Old Order Amish life Ariana Brenneman loved vanished virtually overnight with the discovery that she was switched at birth twenty years ago. Now she’s immersed in the Englischer world, getting to know her mother and under the authority of her biological father, an atheist intellectual with resolute plans to expand Ariana’s worldview. Only Quill Schlabach, a childhood friend living Englisch, can steady the tilting ground between Ariana’s two worlds, but can she trust him after so many betrayals? At the same time, Skylar Nash is forced to choose rehab or spend several months with her true relatives, the large Brenneman family and their seemingly backward life—no electricity, no technology, no fun. What the young woman can’t leave behind is her addiction to illegal prescription drugs and a deep emptiness from the belief that she doesn’t belong in either family.
 New ties are binding Ariana and Skylar to the lives they were meant to have. Can they find the wisdom and strength they’ll need to follow God’s threads into unexpected futures?





25.Gathering the Threads- Cindy Woodsmall

Finally back in the Old Order Amish world she loves, Will Ariana’s new perspectives draw her family closer together— or completely rip them apart?

After months away in the Englisch world, Ariana Brenneman is overjoyed to be in the Old Order Amish home where she was raised. Yet her excitement is mixed with an unexpected apprehension as she reconciles all she’s learned from her biological parents with the uncompromising teachings of her Plain community. Although her childhood friend, ex-Amish Quill Schlabach, hopes to help her navigate her new role amongst her people, Ariana’s Daed doesn’t understand why his sweet daughter is suddenly questioning his authority. What will happen if she sows seeds of unrest and rebellion in the entire family? 

Meanwhile, Skylar Nash has finally found her place among the large Brenneman family, but Ariana’s arrival threatens to unravel Skylar’s new identity—and her sobriety. Both Ariana and Skylar must discover the true cords that bind a family and community together and grasp tight the One who holds their authentic identities close to His heart.













Also leave a comment telling me your favorite book that you read this year either off this list or not and be entered into a giveaway of one kindle e-book of this list. (not to exceed $9.99.) 
Giveaway is in no way associated with any of the author's off this list. Giveaway is open till midnight central standard time through 12/22 Winners will be announced on my Twitter on the afternoon of 12/23 so go follow me on Twitter 




*none of the links are affiliates, all books were chosen by myself with no influence from the author or publication company.