Victoria Simcox's Blog

 Clement and Dagena return for another adventure. This time they journey to the fabled land of Vinland to seek the legendary treasure of the Knights Templar. Along the way, they must overcome Clement’s nemesis, the diabolical Sven the Terrible!

 

About the author

Craig R. Hipkins grew up in Hubbardston Massachusetts. He is the author of medieval and gothic fiction. His novel Adalbert is the sequel to Astrolabe written by his late twin brother Jay S. Hipkins (1968-2018)

He is an avid long distance runner and enjoys astronomy in his spare time.

Amazon Review

Fourteen-year-old Clement, young lady Degena, and company voyage to the vast land of Vinland. The purpose of their journey, to search for the remarkable treasure of the Knights Templar.
At Vinland they have a heartfelt reunion with old friends Adalbert and young Tristan. Clement and Tristan get a vigorous training from the fighting monk Greg. And monk Greg warns them to tread lightly on their expedition.

Clement and Dagena set off on their mission in search of the treasure, and along the way, they encounter natives. They learn some of the languages and build alliances.

Clement has a lot of responsibility and danger is around every corner. However; God has chosen him for an important task, and he must endure to fulfil it.

Fighting the elements, foraging for food, searching for the kidnapped, danger everywhere, not knowing who to trust, fear, torture and even death, are all part of this fascinating story. Add to that, a blossoming sweet romance, as well as wonderful comradery and friendships.

This is the third in a series and very entertaining, the same as the first two. Author Craig Hipkin’s has a way of drawing one into his faith-filled story, and I could see myself tagging along with the characters. The added Christian legends, parts of history, and a glossary of terms at the end are educational and interesting. Well done! Looking forward to more.Content Rating
Drug Content: G – There is a small amount of casual drinking in a few scenes, but it is not glamorized or central to the plot.  Violence: PG – Perilous encounters include battles, torture, kidnappings, and near-death experiences. The violence is not graphic but involves intense danger and suspense.   Language: G – No inappropriate language noted in the text.   Adult Content: G – A gentle romance develops between Clement and Degena, including moments of affection and emotional connection. Nothing inappropriate or explicit is presented.  Christian/Moral Content: PG – The story includes strong faith themes such as prayer, trust in God, mentions of heaven, and the spiritual growth of characters. These elements are integral to the characters’ decisions and the overall message.
 Would this rating work for The Templar's Treasure....Drug Content: G – There is a small amount of casual drinking in a few scenes, but it is not glamorized or central to the plotViolence: PG – Perilous encounters include battles, torture, kidnappings, and near-death experiences. The violence is not graphic but involves intense danger and suspense.Language: G – No inappropriate language noted in the text.Adult Content: G – A gentle romance develops between Clement and Degena, including moments of affection and emotional connection. Nothing inappropriate or explicit is presented.Christian Content: PG – The story includes strong faith themes such as prayer, trust in God, mentions of heaven, and the spiritual growth of characters. These elements are integral to the characters’ decisions and the overall message.Wuld this rating work for The Templar's Treasure....Drug Content: G – There is a small amount of casual drinking in a few scenes, but it is not glamorized or central to the plot.Violence: PG – Perilous encounters include battles, torture, kidnappings, and near-death experiences. The violence is not graphic but involves intense danger and suspense.Language: G – No inappropriate language noted in the text.Adult Content: G – A gentle romance develops between Clement and Degena, including moments of affection and emotional connection. Nothing inappropriate or explicit is presented.Christian Content: PG – The story includes strong faith themes such as prayer, trust in God, mentions of heaven, and the spiritual growth of characters. These elements are integral to the characters’ decisions and the overall messagLinksAmazon: https://books2read.com/u/bPjRadX: @CraigHipkins
 

 

Isaac’s only friend is a passenger pigeon named Bandy. He deludes himself in believing the bird talks to him. Bullied, he is resigned to a life of being the misunderstood bookworm by neighboring boys until a disastrous fire kills his parents and little sisters, sparing only his younger brother, Thomas. He and Thomas are taken in by their Uncle Raymond, an abolitionist, who plans to send Isaac to Virginia to buy Joy, a young slave with debilitating health, from her slave owner, Wil Jericho. Shortly after arriving in Virginia, Isaac learns the ugly truth. The butler who accompanied him on the journey killed his uncle before leaving and plans to do the same to Isaac to steal Raymond’s estate.

Isaac, with Joy, escape into the backwoods of Virginia. Discovering passages of the Underground Railroad, stowing away in carriages, hiding in churches, and outwitting the mercenaries hired by Jericho, the two teens fight tooth and nail to make it to Boston before they’re caught. Will Joy be taken from this life by sickness before she’s found freedom? On their journey, they learn a lot about each other. Isaac promises to bring Joy to Bandy's pond, a heavenly place where peace and serenity reign.
 
About the author

Craig R. Hipkins grew up in Hubbardston Massachusetts. He is the author of medieval and gothic fiction. His novel Adalbert is the sequel to Astrolabe written by his late twin brother Jay S. Hipkins (1968-2018)

He is an avid long distance runner and enjoys astronomy in his spare time.

 

 

 

Review Winner of the Readers' Favorite Gold Medal
Craig R Hipkins' Bandy is a breathtaking work that kept me glued from the beginning till the end. The narration is wonderful, and the characters are particularly well-constructed. I was too quick to judge Raymond, but Craig soon made me change my attitude toward him. Old Moses is yet another marvelous character who leaves a lasting impact despite being there for a rather brief time. Joy and Isaac, though young, put up a brilliant fight, and their bravery, resilience, and determination are indeed inspirational. I especially love how Craig shows the power of kindness through the interactions between these two and one of the hunters in the woods. In this, there is a lesson for everyone. I would recommend this book to readers aged twelve and above. -Readers' Favorite 5- Star Review

The Underground Railroad and a Passenger Pigeon - an Editorial Review of "Bandy"

Hipkins' storytelling is nothing short of genius, weaving a narrative that balances sadness with hope, loneliness with companionship, and darkness with newfound light. The descriptions of landscapes, historical details, and emotional nuances evoke a strong sense of time and place. The pacing is excellent, too - each chapter propels the story forward with suspenseful encounters, heartfelt dialogue, and unexpected alliances that keep the narrative engaging.

Young readers will discover meaningful lessons conveyed through truly exceptional storytelling. Hipkins masterfully presents the inequities of slavery through the eyes of children, offering a poignant perspective that resonates deeply. "Bandy" is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of friendship during times of the greatest inequality.

The writing in "Bandy" is both engaging and enlightening, treating its subjects with honesty and respect. This novel champions the underdog in society and those who face challenges or are different in some way. Hipkins infuses the narrative with heart and emotion, leading readers on a poignant journey that culminates in a satisfying conclusion. This is definitely a book that will leave a lasting impact on its audience.

Perhaps Hipkins's greatest accomplishment lies in his ability to craft a story that is simultaneously complex and accessible, appealing to readers of all ages. He delivers a richly textured narrative filled with adventure, emotion, and profound insights - overall, a delightful read that provides a window into history while delivering an entertaining story. It's a recommended choice for anyone interested in historical fiction with depth and excitement.

*********The Historical Fiction Company**********  From the Author Winner of the 2024 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal.
Winner of the 2024 Barrie Gold Medal from the Historical Fiction Company. Content Rating   Violence: There is some violence as Isaac defends Joy from the slavers trying to take her back. Also, Isaac kills a man in self defense.   Adult Content: None  Language: No F bombs. There are a few instances of the word ‘damn’ but that is about it.  Religious or Moral: It is Christian. Isaac and Joy are given temporary sanctuary in a church. Isaac’s creed is honor and courage and doing what is morally right. It is the theme of the book.Drug Content: No drugs but there is one scene where the bad guy literally forces Isaac to drink wine. Links  https://books2read.com/u/mgx78v @CraigHipkins
http://crhipkins.blogspot.com 

When two patients of respected surgeon, Dr. Elizabeth Brooks, die under odd circumstances, she is threatened with loss of medical privileges, a malpractice suit and financial ruin. Elizabeth is determined to discover why her patients are having unexpected complications but her anxiety only escalates when handsome Detective Jake Wagner shows up in her office looking for information as part of a criminal investigation. Distressed, she begins to dream about her dead patients. Elizabeth has dreamt of the dead before, something she experienced after being hit by a drunk driver when she was young. For years after the accident, Elizabeth resisted the dreams and kept the dead away. But now, the dead are reaching out again. Realizing she needs help to save herself and her career, Elizabeth has no choice but to welcome them back and hope that sometimes the dead can protect the living.
 

About the author

Linda Rawlins is an American writer of mystery fiction best known for her Misty Point Mystery Series, including Misty Manor, Misty Point, Misty Winter, Misty Treasure, Misty Revenge, and Misty Retreat. She is also known for her Rocky Meadow Mystery Series, including The Bench, Fatal Breach, Sacred Gold as well as an independent novel, Midnight Shift.

Linda loved to read as a child and started writing her first mystery novel in fifth grade. She then went on to study science, medicine, and literature, eventually graduating from medical school and establishing her career in medicine.

Linda Rawlins lives in New Jersey with her husband, her family and spoiled dog. She loves spending time at the beach as well as visiting the mountains of Vermont. She is an active member of Mystery Writers of America. As a member of Sisters in Crime, Linda was the President of the Central Jersey Chapter for 2022, 2020, 2019 and the VP in 2018. 

Amazon Review 

I have not read a medical thriller in a number of years and decided to start with this one. I was not disappointed. Linda Rawlins is a writer of mystery books, and this novel definitely has an element of mystery to it with twists and turns that kept me turning the pages. I have to admit that I try to figure out how a book will end, but got this ending wrong on all counts, as it finished in a whirlwind of suspense.
The main character is 30 something Doctor Elizabeth Brooks who is a coffee drinking, sleep deprived (nightmare plagued) surgeon who is highly competent in her field. However, when patients start dying after surgery, she is thrust into the spotlight. Detective Jake Wagner, is called in to investigate the mysterious deaths and the chemistry between these two gets interesting as the novel progresses.
Midnight Shift is a fast paced read and I highly recommend it for the reader who enjoys thrillers. A well-deserved five stars! Content Rating Drugs: No drugs except supplements.

Language: May be a mild swear word or two MildViolence: office broken into and at the end Dr Brooks is tied and threatened. Ithink she gets hit once or twice. 

Adult: No descriptive sex - just a kiss atend.

Moral: Sometimes, the answers we fear most are the ones that lead to redemption. By facing the shadows of her past, Elizabeth discovers that confronting them can uncover the truth and bring justice.

           

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can visit Linda at her website at www.lindarawlins.com

Other links to connect with Linda -

Facebook.com/lindarawlinsauthor

twitter.com/LRL8

Instagram.com/lindarawlins

tiktok.com/lindarawlinsauthor

goodreads.com/lindarawlins

facebook.com/lindar.liotti

bookbub.com/authors/linda-rawlins

The Bernovem Chronicles: Series Synopsis 

In The Warble join Kristina on a thrilling adventure through the enchanting land of Bernovem. After receiving a mysterious Christmas gift, she is transported to this magical realm, where she is hailed as the "chosen one" destined to free the land from the malevolent Queen Sentiz. Armed with the legendary Warble, Kristina must navigate treacherous forests and confront zelbocks to fulfill her quest.

In the fast-paced sequel, The Shard, a prank goes awry, sending Kristina and her friends back to Bernovem. They embark on a sea voyage to Werrien's homeland, but dark forces and ghostly apparitions threaten their journey.

By the third installment, The Medallion, Kristina stays in Bernovem to help Hector Mysteria search for the hidden Book of Prophecy, all while Queen Sentiz seeks the Medallion to cement her power. Kristina's bravery takes her soaring on a dragon's back as new allies and challenges arise.

In the grand finale, The Prophecy, chaos reigns across Bernovem as Resucca and his followers unleash terror. With the fate of the realm hanging in the balance, Kristina must confront her fears and teenage dilemmas while battling against Sentiz's tyranny. Prepare for a whirlwind of events leading to a climactic conclusion that will change everything in this epic saga.

Drug Content:

The Bernovem Chronicles are generally rated G to PG. Most books contain minimal drinking, often linked to humorous situations or antagonists. One story features a prince affected by a potion. Overall, the series maintains a light tone, making it suitable for younger audiences. 

Violence content:

The Bernovem Chronicles have a violence rating ranging from G to PG-13. The first book features fantasy violence similar to that found in Narnia or Disney films, balancing humor with darker themes. The second book includes minimal violence. The third and fourth books introduce mild graphic elements with magical creatures and action-packed scenes. Overall, the series offers a blend of fantasy violence comparable to the Harry Potter and Chronicles of Narnia series.

Language Content:

The Bernovem Chronicles: G - The language in this series is squeaky clean.

Adult Content:

The Bernovem Chronicles have an adult content rating of G to PG. Books 1 and 2 include content similar to a Disney movie, featuring only light childhood romance. Books 3 and 4 introduce mild romantic interest, with characters occasionally leading each other on. Overall, the series maintains a light-hearted approach to romantic themes.

Christian Values:

The Bernovem Chronicles explore a variety of Christian themes throughout the series. While Book 1 focuses on faith, friendship, and the struggle against evil, Book 2 introduces elements of divine guidance and the ongoing battle between good and evil. In Book 3, the dynamics of good and evil become more evident, with themes of prayer and loyalty. By Book 4, faith and divine intervention are central, showcasing self-sacrifice and the triumph of good. Overall, the series presents a strong faith-based message, emphasizing spiritual battles and moral choices.

About the Author

Award winning Author, Victoria was born in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, to an Austrian immigrant mother and a Dutch immigrant father. She now calls Western Washington home. Besides her writing career, Victoria taught elementary-school art for several years. Her past times are writing, reading, and painting watercolors. She likes to read theological and some fantasy genres. 

Amazon Link : https://books2read.com/u/b5aMwR

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoriasimcoxauthor/

 Can a small-town doctor foil a killer and discover the truth about a missing baby?

After a patient shares a long-held secret with Dr. Eric Darcy, someone murders her. Because local police shrug off a vital clue, the young, widowed doctor teams with his quirky PI sister-in-law to bring justice.

Memorable characters, a challenging puzzle in a medical setting, and fast-paced writing get this mystery series off to an unforgettable start. “A very clever mystery.” —NightOwlReviews.

Welcome to book one of the Safe Harbor Medical Mysteries by USA Today bestselling novelist Jacqueline Diamond. Additional titles include The Case of the Surly Surrogate, The Case of the Desperate Doctor and The Case of the Long-Lost Lover..

About the authorJacqueline Diamond

Readers worldwide have bought more than 7 million books by USA Today bestselling author Jacqueline Diamond, including medical romances, romantic comedies, mysteries, Regency romances and more.

A former Associated Press reporter and TV columnist, Jackie is best known for her Safe Harbor Medical romances and mysteries, and for her Sisters, Lovers and Second Chances series. NY Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber says, "Jacqueline Diamond writes stories from the heart with a wisdom and tenderness that remain long after the final page."

Her newest exciting venture is the Forgotten Village Magical Mystery series, beginning with A Cat's Garden of Secrets. National Book Award winner Neal Shusterman says, “Master storyteller Jacqueline Diamond draws you in to this magical feline mystery, enchanting you page after page.” The second book in the series, A Cat's Nose for Murder, is also drawing rave reviews. The author is currently at work on book three.

Jackie has been married for more than 40 years and lives in Southern California.

You can learn more about her books and audiobooks at jacquelinediamond dot net, and you can follow Jackie here at Author Central. 

Amazon Review

The Case of the Questionable Quadruplet, written by Jacqueline Diamond, is the first book in the Safe Harbor Medical Mysteries series. This is the first book I have read by this author, but it won't be the last. This book was fast paced and held my attention from the first to the last page. The book is a clean language read, with well written character descriptions, an interesting plot and multiple twists and turns to keep the reader engaged. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

Content Rating 

Drug use: There are a few references to characters (off-stage) who used drugs or might be vulnerable to drug use. 

Language: no swearing 

Violence: discussions of past violence including a murder. 

Adult: no sex scenes 

Moral: exposing sins of the past can be painful, but ultimately lead to healing.

Links 

Amazon: https://books2read.com/u/baXM8q 

X @JacqueDiamond 

 

 Set in the time of Christ. A first hand report of events surrounding the arrival and earthly life of the promised Messiah. The story line of this presentation, is taken from information available in the Gospels. The events are framed as seen through the eyes of a devout family living in Judah at that time. The Hebrew people embraced many traditions and rituals which were a part of their religious worship. One such ritual was the celebration of the Passover Feast. In scripture, God uses many types and examples to interpret His message to mankind. This presentation uses the events of Passover to provide an understanding of the life and prophecy concerning God’s promised Messiah, the real Passover Lamb. This production can be used in ministry to both adults and children. It may also be presented to individuals who have never heard the gospel, as an evangelism tool. The story covers the birth, life, death, resurrection and return of Christ. And can be used as a musical presentation at Easter and/or Christmas.

 

About the author

I have been writing for twenty-five years. My favorite resource is scripture. A hunger for God’s Word took me to the campus of Precepts International in Chattanooga, Tennessee. There I learned the Inductive Bible Study method, which completely changed the way I view scripture.

I served for five plus years in a local chapter of CONTACT USA. While there I served on the board of directors and as a crisis line specialist. In addition I am certified by the American Association of Christian Counselors in Caring for People God’s Way. I remained an active member until 2005. I am currently retired.

After becoming a Christian, my desire to write and quest for answers were dedicated to understanding God’s message to man. What exactly was He saying and why were there so many different interpretations? As a result, I became an avid student of scripture. My book ‘Spiritual Compass’ contains excerpts from various articles written over the years. It also takes the reader on a simple walk through the Word of God and offers insights derived from the personal journey of others.

I am a widowed grandmother of eight, retired and living in Southwestern Virginia.

Amazon Review

This is a nice little musical drama set in the first century. It tells the story of Christ and there are some very poignant parts depicted in it, especially the scene when the young blind girl, Liora, gets separated from her father. Christ comes to her rescue and cures her of her blindness.

This play would make a great splash in a community theatre or a small playhouse somewhere. Rachel Jamerson does a great job with the dialogue and the play is very well written. I highly recommend this small book for anyone interested in putting together a production that is directed for a Christian audience. Well done!

Content Rating 

Drug: none 

Language: PG 

Violence: Examples in scripture – such as crucifixion 

Adult: none 

Moral: The story of Christ’s life, as seen through the eyes of a devout family in Judah, teaches us that God’s promises are fulfilled through love, sacrifice, and redemption. Just as the Passover Lamb symbolized deliverance in ancient times, Christ, the true Passover Lamb, offers eternal salvation. Through His birth, life, death, and resurrection, we learn that faith in God's plan brings hope and new life to all. This message of love and sacrifice can inspire both believers and those unfamiliar with the Gospel to embrace the power of God's promise.  

Link: Amazon

 

 Buck Greene, a man disillusioned by the war, embarks on a journey westward in search of a new beginning. His path is littered with the ghosts of the men he once led, driving him to seek a change of scenery. The news of the expanding transcontinental railroad fuels his aspirations, inspiring him to be part of a movement that could mend a fractured nation.

As Buck travels toward his destination, he stumbles upon the murdered body of one of the railroad workers. Shocked, he learns that this is not the first murder. With dogged persistence, he inserts himself into the investigation, racing against time to solve the crime. Can Buck stop the killers before it's too late and assert himself as a bonafide Railroad Special Agent?

Railway to Murder is the first in the Buck Greene, Railroad Special Agent, Mysteries series. If you enjoy a murder mystery set in the heady times after the American Civil War, you’ll love Danny J. Bradbury’s novel.

Get your copy today.

 

 

Danny J. Bradbury I have been writing historical fiction novels since I retired from the Insurance industry. I have a lifelong love of history and enjoy sharing my accumulated knowledge. I was born and raised in Colorado and Wyoming. I served in the U.S. Navy. My wife and I currently live in South Carolina. We have three grown daughters and four grandchildren. Amazon ReviewerThis is the author's first journey the mystery genre and it was a success. I will first state thar I received this book as an ARC with no anticipation of a positive review.I loved the writing style that gave me the ability to picture every character and action in my mind as you moved smoothly from chapter to chapter. Each Chapter averaged 4 to 5 pages.

The main character Buck Greene is pulled in solving a series of Murders as the railroad moves West. His challenges include weather, rough railroad workers, wild Native Americans and much more.

There are many twists and turns until you get to the final chapter and an unexpected ending.

Highly recommend. This was my first time reading this author. Content Rating: Drug - G no drug useLanguage - G cleanViolence - PG13  Moral - Perseverance in the face of adversity can lead to justice. Understanding different perspectives and overcoming prejudices can lead to deeper connections and solutions.
Links: Amazon: https://books2read.com/u/3JB5OE Twitter:@DanBradbury52

 

This book contains a collection of Vignettes compiled by the author. They represent personal experiences but are not intended to reference any particular individual. Unless otherwise noted, the Articles are fictional strictly the author's opinion and premised on her own life experiences.

CATEGORIES INCLUDE America, Family, Spirituality, and Short Stories covering a variety of life experiences including award-winning articles. Material was complied for family but is available to any who wish to read it. Racheal JamersonAbout the author

I have been writing for twenty-five years. My favorite resource is scripture. A hunger for God’s Word took me to the campus of Precepts International in Chattanooga, Tennessee. There I learned the Inductive Bible Study method, which completely changed the way I view scripture.

I served for five plus years in a local chapter of CONTACT USA. While there I served on the board of directors and as a crisis line specialist. In addition I am certified by the American Association of Christian Counselors in Caring for People God’s Way. I remained an active member until 2005. I am currently retired.

After becoming a Christian, my desire to write and quest for answers were dedicated to understanding God’s message to man. What exactly was He saying and why were there so many different interpretations? As a result, I became an avid student of scripture. My book ‘Spiritual Compass’ contains excerpts from various articles written over the years. It also takes the reader on a simple walk through the Word of God and offers insights derived from the personal journey of others.

I am a widowed grandmother of eight, retired and living in Southwestern Virginia.

Review

This was a very interesting read! It is based on the Author's personal thoughts and interpretation of the Bible and I found it to be very thought provoking.

At one point I got chills while reading. As I began from where I had left off the night before, the words on the page were almost identical to a prayer between myself and God the previous night! I was astounded! I wondered how it was possible! Had I read farther the night before than I realized? But no. It was a prayer that I had been talking to God about for weeks prior to reading this book.

I haven't yet processed the odds of reasoning behind this coincidence, but the word for word similarity to my prayers has certainly resonated with me!

While it is possible that not everyone will agree with this Author's thoughts and interpretations, I feel that every one of those same people will come away with something useful and helpful in their day to day lives!

It is an easy read and well written. In my humble opinion, it appeared to be well researched, and written with the intent to not only be a guide throughout life alongside the Bible to her family but to anyone else that finds this book in their hands.

I could feel the Author's love for her family shining through the pages!

Content Rating  

Drugs: None

Language: None

Violence: None other than one story contains a mild domestic encounter.

Adult: None

Moral: The power of personal reflection and faith can create profound moments of connection, where our deepest thoughts align with the words of others in unexpected ways. Even if perspectives differ, we can all find wisdom and inspiration through shared experiences and the heartfelt intentions of others.

 

Link: https://books2read.com/u/38lxGd

Review By Chris Solaas: Things He Hadn't Told Her by Vicky Whedbee

Things He Hadn't Told Her

by Vicky Whedbee

Chad Edwards & Cole Rivers have been best friends since grade school. "Blood brothers forever" they declared, after Chad saved Cole's life. Years later in college at the University of Tennessee, Chad is a student of Sports Medicine, and Cole is the Vol's star quarterback. That's where they meet Maggie Thompson. Ask either one of them and they would tell you, "Maggie is perfect". So, it's no surprise they both fall in love with her. As fate would have it, Maggie falls in love too, but only one of them is the recipient of her affections. It's what happens next that will surprise you.
They made a pact as boys. Can they keep that pact as men?

My Take:

Chad Edwards saved Cole Rivers' life one day when he pulled him from a flood-swollen and dangerous river. Since that time, Chad has been looking out for Cole, making sure he doesn't flunk his classes and get tossed off the football team. Quietly making sure his reputation isn't ruined. Cole is destined for greatness, a star quarterback in High School who goes on to QB the Tennessee Vols in college. Chad, who wants to go into sports medicine, follows him there, and continues to keep Cole out of trouble. It seems that nothing could come between these two friends.

Except, perhaps, Maggie.

Beautiful, talented, compassionate, and full of life, Maggie is perfect. And Chad quickly falls for her. But Maggie falls for Cole. Devastated, Chad has to decide whether to keep his true feelings secret, hurt the two people he loves best, or quietly fade away.

Content:

Drug Content:

G - There is a little casual drinking in a few places.

Violence:

PG - Tragic accidents leave people somewhat mangled. There is no intentional harm done here. No graphic descriptions either.

Language:

PG - There are a few scattered mild expletives.

Adult Content:

G - There is romance and some kissing. 

Christian content:

The characters in this book struggle with where God is in their suffering, but remain steadfast in their faith. Church attendance is encouraged, and nightly prayers with the family are present occasionally. Prayer for healing and safety are not uncommon. Discussion is made about people being in heaven when they die. The raw conflict, self-sacrifice, and ensuing depth of character in the protagonist is stunning. 

Final analysis:

Things He Hadn't Told Her by Vicky Whedbee is a heartwarming tale of unrequited love. The characters have tragic real-life struggles and deal with them in a faith-filled and realistic way. The settings are immersive, and the dialogue engaging. The author has a talent for drawing on common emotional situations, and depicting them well enough to bring even an old granddad like me to tears.  This book covered multiple years of interaction in the main characters. During the first half of the novel, the level of detail in the interactions and experiences of the characters was a bit overwhelming, but it set a gorgeous backdrop for the back half of the story, when things really took off. I was well satisfied with the end, and thought Vicky Whedbee did an excellent job carrying the reader through. Good plot, excellent characters, raw emotions and a heartwarming conclusion. Five Stars!

About the Author:

Vicky Whedbee was born and raised in Daytona Beach, Florida, where she resided until her 40's when she relocated to San Mateo, Florida, where she currently resides with her husband. An avid reader, she wrote her first novel over a period of years as a labor of love and fulfillment of a life long dream that began with the encouragement of her Engish teacher in high school.
With a diagnosis of cancer for her dad, she decided to become an independent author and published her novel on her own in order to present a finished product to her father before his demise. She was in the process of reading said novel, "Things He Hadn't Told Her", to him at the time of his passing.
She wrote her second novel "Sarah's Song", which was a collaboration with her father set in the time of his childhood in the rural Appalachian mountains, with notes taken prior to his demise. Both books have been met with stellar 5-STAR reviews on Amazon & Goodreads, as well as awarded the 5-star review seal from Reader's Favorite.
After numerous requests, she wrote a sequel to Sarah's Song, titled Sarah's Home, which could also be read as a stand-alone. It, too, is being received with love and 5-STAR reviews.
She is currently working on her next novel.
Visit & contact her through her website https://crwvao.wixsite.com/vickywhedbee

Check out  Chris Solaas' blog at https://christianindiebookreviews.blogspot.com/p/interviews.html

 

After Emily Hanover’s left standing at the altar in Blue Mountain, North Carolina, she goes to Sky High Campground to put her life back together. Because it’s February and few people come here this time of year, she’s alone on the premises. When noises in the middle of the night frighten her, she gathers her courage and peeks outside. A man carrying a body over his shoulder emerges from the dark shadows onto her front yard. Horrified, she collapses onto the floor.
The next morning, she visits ex-military officer turned security guard, Nick Lancaster. He listens intently to Emily, but dismisses her claim of foul play as a hunter carrying a deer. Finally, after he sees a freshly dug hole in Emily’s yard and finds two more in the woods, he agrees—there’s suspicious activity. Then he and Emily embark on a mission exposing murder and a far-reaching sinister plot, neither suspecting danger can bring romance.

 About the author

Award-winning author Gail Pallotta is a wife, mom, swimmer and bargain shopper who loves God, beach sunsets and getting together with friends and family. She's a former Grace Awards finalist, a 2017 Reader's Favorite Book Awards recipient and a TopShelf 2020 Book Awards Finalist. She's published six books, poems, short stories and two-hundred articles. Some of her articles appear in anthologies while two are in museums. Visit Gail’s website at gailpallotta.com

READER’S FAVORITE 5-STAR REVIEW FOR BARELY ABOVE WATER

reviewed by Deborah Stone (Sept. 19, 2016)

"Barely Above Water by Gail Pallotta has a powerful and heart wrenching message that we all need to hear. Suzie has something wrong with her, but no one seems to know what. Without a diagnosis, she is perceived, by some, to be lazy and complaining. No medical doctor has been able to help, so Suzie takes a giant leap of faith and trusts God to lead her. She moves to Florida to see an alternative medicine doctor that once helped her mother's friend. With no job, she relies on God and her savings while she looks for work. She ends up taking a summer-only job coaching a make-shift swim team with inexperienced swimmers. Although temporary, it will keep her going through the summer while she looks for other opportunities to support herself and pay for her treatments. Suzie meets Matt, the Park and Recreation Director and her new boss. When more than a work relationship begins to develop, Suzie feels she must tell Matt about her illness. Will he stand by her or walk away? Is telling him a risk that Suzie is willing to take?

Gail Pallotta introduces us to a world with options when it comes to taking care of our bodies. She speaks with authority on the subject because she understands it first hand. Gail Pallotta's characters are real and convincing because they come from a place of understanding. Gail's love story is fragile and tender, but with an inner strength that comes from trust and faith in God. Gail Pallotta's story is inspiring and resonates with hope when all hope seems to be gone. A lovely story with well-defined and well developed characters, and a story line with factual information that will help, or at least educate, readers.”

Content Rating

Drug: There are no drugs in the book. Lots of coffee and some tea.

Language: There is no foul language in the book. Just a bit of humor.

Violence: There are no violent scenes. However, murders occur off-scene and there’s one dead body investigation.

Adult: The book is for an adult general audience, women and men. It’s Christian Romantic Suspense (Discipleship Series Book 1)

Moral: It’s a Christian book with a new twist. The theme is discipleship.

Amazon: https://books2read.com/u/bPGvll