CRITICAL THREAT BY LYNETTE EASON

FBI Special Agent Grace Billingsley tracks serial killers, using her skills as a psychiatrist and behavioral analyst to get dangerous people off the street and safely behind bars. But prison psychiatrist Sam Monroe knows that just because a killer is incarcerated doesn't mean they're not a threat. His own father, Peter, is a serial killer--in prison but certainly not out of Sam's life, as much as he wishes he was.

When bodies start showing up with Peter's MO, Sam and Grace are both called in to consult. They've met before--and though Grace thought they'd made a real connection, Sam ghosted her. They'll have to get past the awkwardness and mistrust to solve this case--especially because it's about to get personal.

USA Today bestselling author Lynette Eason doesn't give you time to catch your breath in this breakneck race to stop a serial killer.

MY REVIEW

What an amazing suspenseful book this is. The author definitely knows how to write an intense story with characters that grab your attention. I loved the two main characters and thought they worked very well together. Grace is a very intelligent woman who works as a behavioral analyst. Her job can be demanding and dangerous at times. I was impressed with her skills of recalling faces, and picking up clues at crime scenes. There is a serial killer on the loose and Grace is there to help catch the person before more women are killed. 

Sam is a prison psychiatrist and he sure has his hands full with the information he is told. I can see why his job is important though. With his knowledge he has the ability to talk to prisoners and see if there is something they are hiding. Sam also has quite the family history that would scare most relationships away. I can’t wait for readers to find out more about this part of Sam. He has tried to remove himself from this secret but it won’t go away. 

With a killer on  loose, Grace finds  herself teamed up with Sam to solve the crime. I loved the twists in the story and wondered at times if Grace would survive since she has caught the attention of the serial killer. The puzzles start coming together and the race is on to keep  one step ahead of the danger. There is a faith element in the story but it is light.  The ending is worthy of an award for best edge of your seat adrenaline rush take down the bad guy before he kills again scene. I loved that there is a hint for another book in this series. I will be anxiously awaiting it. 

I received a copy of this book from Revell Blogger Program. The review is my own opinion.

 

About the Book

Book: Stepping Stones

Author: Dr. Joelle Suel

Genre: Christian Personal Growth

Release date: November 30, 2018

Do you deeply desire to answer the call of God on your life? Are you seeking divine wisdom for the steps and stops to take in your pursuit? Are you willing to count the cost and do whatever it takes? Join author Dr. Joelle Suel in Stepping Stones: 7 Steps to Achieving Your Divine Destiny as she equips all believers to fulfill God’s purpose for their lives while sharing some of her inspirational journey.

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Dr. Joelle Suel is founder and Senior Pastor of Glory to Glory Christian Center in Aurora, Colorado; founder and Dean of Glory to Glory Institute of the Holy Spirit; and author of the Institute curriculum and a daily devotion, Today with Dr. J. Her 2018 book, Stepping Stones, equips readers to answer the call of God in their lives. She is in the process of making all of the Institute curriculum available in book format. She earned her Doctor of Ministry degree from the Phoenix University of Theology in 2006. A native of Puteaux, France, she became an American citizen in 2003.

More from Dr. Joelle

Dear reader,

God loves us and counts us precious in His sight. We are full-time ministers wherever we are, and through whatever we do. Where our feet stand is where our pulpit stands. We shine the light of our Lord, Jesus Christ, and glorify Him, often without realizing it. God desires to use all of us in and through our daily activities.

My prayer is that this book will encourage and empower you to answer His call, from faith to faith. I trust the Spirit of God will strengthen you to continue what you are currently doing and lead you into additional steps in your divine purpose.

Below, please find a few quotes from the book to bless you today.

He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.–1Thessalonians 5:24 NKJV

Abundant blessings upon you and your family,

Dr. Joelle

• What we do portrays a greater message than what we say.
• We cannot seek God’s approval and man’s approval at the same time.
• The trust in ourselves decreases as our trust in God increases.
• When Christ becomes our motive for ministry, doors open for Him, not for us.
• Never stop starting.
• We cannot expect from others what only God can give.
• Humility is the gateway to knowing Him.
• What is on the inside comes out under pressure.
• We do not complete with others, but we complete one another.
• If I criticize who I am, I criticize God Himself.
• What we dwell on, we eventually dwell in.
• We cannot respect what we don’t value.

MY REVIEW 

I enjoyed reading this book as it guides you to the plans He has for you. I have been struggling with what I’m to be doing as far as ministry. I was in Children’s minsters for over fifteen years, but I know that my season is over for that now. So I wait and listen to the message at church every week. Perhaps I am to just sit and be fed for a season so I can get filled up again. This book is timely for me as I discover the stepping stones to find my destiny.

I like how the author goes through the seven steps with readers and explains them with scriptures and illustrations from the Bible. Water baptism is a very important step as we get rid of the “fleshy tendencies” and become a new creature in Christ. I remember when I was baptized at the age of twelve. I don’t think I really  understood it but my parents insisted I do it. Years later I knew I had to be baptized again because now I knew the importance of washing away the old and coming up from the water as a new person. It was a freedom like I had never felt. 

At the end of every chapter is questions that I would recommend doing as it helps you apply what was taught in the book. Don’t miss doing the Action Steps as this is a valuable tool to help you on your journey. The author closes each chapter with a prayer. 

I appreciate the personal stories the author used as we are encouraged to overcome the tricks the enemy tries to use to divert our attention, tell us lies, discourage us and try to turn away from God. Each step in the book is foundation that grows as you learn how to find your destiny. 

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

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Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, January 6

Texas Book-aholic, January 7

Beauty in the Binding, January 8 (Author Interview)

Christina’s Corner, January 8

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 9

deb’s Book Review, January 10

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 11

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 12

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 13

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, January 14 (Author Interview)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 15 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, January 15

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, January 16

Cover Lover Book Review, January 17

Splashes of Joy, January 18 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 19

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Joelle is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/23681/stepping-stones-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

 CHRISTMAS AT THE AMISH MARKET BY SHELLEY SHEPARD GRAY

Wesley is so busy running his family’s Amish market at the holidays, he barely has time for Liesl, the young woman he’s been courting for years. When she suggests her aunt Jenny could help Wesley out, he agrees to the plan. But Liesl neglected to mention her aunt is only twenty-six years old—and as charming as she is hard-working.

Jenny, still healing after a painful breakup, welcomes the distraction of working at the market. She soon realizes Wesley is everything she ever dreamed a man could be. But how can Jenny even think about romance with the man Liesl expects to marry?

But Liesl’s own feelings are more complicated than she’s willing to admit. With humor, faith, and a little help from their friends in the community, everyone might just find what their hearts are looking for this Christmas at the Amish market.

MY REVIEW

I loved this story because it deals with emotions in a very realistic way. I enjoyed reading about  the market and all the charming items sold there. As Christmas nears the store is very busy and Wesley is having a hard time keeping up with the store. With his parents away so his dad can get some rest, he thinks it is time to get some help at the store. It sure was a surprise who he hired and who suggested the person. I could already see the twists coming as couldn’t wait to see what the author would do with these characters. 

Liesl is a little frustrated with her beau, Wesley who is so busy at the store he has little time for her. I had a feeling that Liesl was feeling left out from his life and keeps herself busy sewing and helping her neighbor Roland with his little girl. I loved this part of the story because the author allows this relationship to start as friendship and being  able to help others out. I wonder if Wesley showed her more attention, would she be drawn to someone else? 

Now we have Jenny, Roland and Lilly that come  into the picture that rounds out our cast of characters. I loved Jenny and her strong desire to help her niece out. They have a good relationship even though they are a few years apart. They could be sisters really because they are so close in age. Jenny comes to help out and her presence lights up the room at the 0lace she has taken a job at. Will she find love while she is here staying with her niece and family? 

 A quick note about Roland and Lilly. A man who is trying to run a farm while taking care of his adorable daughter on his own is very hard, but his love for his daughter keeps him going. I liked that Lilly took to a certain someone and helped this person see how important she is. There is a good illustration about helping others, trusting God and listening to your heart. With the twists in the story it gets a little complicated  but I admire how the characters were honest with each other and trusted God to work all things out. 

 AMISH CHRISTMAS TWINS 

In these heartwarming, faith-affirming stories, three Amish families face the joys, and challenges, of the holidays—with fruitful results . . .   THE CHRISTMAS NOT-WISH  New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Shelley Shepard Gray When the foster parents they’ve cautiously grown to love discover they’re expecting, orphaned Roy and Jemima Fisher, ages six and seven, are secretly devastated by the certainty they’ll be given up. With Christmas around the corner, their only wish is for new foster parents as nice as Mr. and Mrs. Kurtz. Meanwhile, the Kurtzes have wishes of their own—and with faith, they all may be gifted with twice the blessings . . .   NEW BEGINNINGS * Rachel J. Good Still grieving the loss of her husband and unborn baby in an accident several months ago, Elizabeth Yoder is oblivious to her neighbor Luke Bontrager’s deepening affection for her. But while she bleakly faces Christmas alone, it’s Luke who reminds her it’s the season for giving. And when Elizabeth donates her handmade baby clothes to New Beginnings, a home for teen moms, she soon finds her gifts repaid beyond measure, with Luke’s love—and new beginnings of their own . . .   TWINS TIMES TWO * Loree Lough Spirited twins Priscilla and Leora Schwietert have each been blessed with mischievous twins of their own—all born on Christmas. Nearing their fourteenth birthdays, their sons have asked for horses. Their parents can fulfill their wish—but worry they’ll be rewarding unruly behavior. The solution: A contract requiring hard work and an anonymous gift for someone in need. After thoughtful prayer, the boys surprise their parents—as each husband and wife rediscovers their joy in Christmas and their love for each other. . .

REVIEW

THE CHRISTMAS NOT-WISH BY SHELLEY SHEPARD GRAY

I loved how this story and the others in the book focus on twins and Christmas. I can’t imagine how hard it would be to raise twins. In this contribution to the book we meet two sweet adorable children named Jemima and Roy. They have been shuffled from foster home to foster home. My heart was so sad for these children who wanted someone to love them and make them part of their family. 

When they are sent to live with E.A. and Will they hope that this will be their permanent home. E.A. and Will are caring and have fallen in love with the children already. When they tell the children sone exciting news, they begin to worry if they are going to be sent to a new home. With so many changes going on, the children think they aren’t wanted anymore. 

The story is such a great reminder to trust and let other know how much you love them. It is a special  Christmas as the children  experience what unconditional love is and having their Christmas wish come true. 

NEW BEGINNINGS BY RACHEL J. GOOD 

I loved how the story opens in a shop as Elizabeth was unboxing ornaments. When Luke shows up with nativity scenes you can feel the excitement in the  room. They have been carved by Luke and are the example of what Christmas is really about. I remember this year how much I wanted a nativity scene. Mine was ruined in a home that we lost due to damage this year. I did find a little one but I will start early next year to find the one I have my heart set n.  I envisioned myself there as the nativity sets were unwrapped and watch as they were displayed by Elizabeth. 

Luke has been longing  for Elizabeth for years. He knows she is still grieving over what happened last Christmas but he hopes he can cheer her up some  way. I wasn’t prepared for the  accident that Elizabeth was in and it shocked me. Thanks to Luke he saved her from being seriously hurt. Now with a broken leg how will Elizabeth be able to work at the shop and pay her bills? 

I love how the author touches on loss and how we can sometimes be angry with God. It is hard to understand why someone dies and Elizabeth is having difficulty this year with her husband who died. Luke tries to comfort her and explains  that he understands how she feels. Her husband was Luke’s best friend. What Elizabeth doesn’t know is that Luke has been in love with Elizabeth for years. 

At the ending to the story it is revealed that Elizabeth lost more than her husband and her grief has overwhelmed her. She felt safe enough to tell Luke and  his gentle spirit helped her as she decided what to do with the things that had been tucked away in a room upstairs. I cried so much as 8bread this and want to thank the author for reminding us that there are women out there who are alone and need help as they give birth. A beautiful story that takes unexpected turns. It teaches us about pride, being honest with our feelings and the  miracle of twins given to an unexpected couple. 

TWINS TIMES TWO BY LOREE LOUGH

The two set of twin boys make  this story so fun to read. The boys are always getting into trouble and now after someone was hurt by their antics, their parents have decided a punishment for them. They are to get up very early every day to help Jube   at his farm. It is a very eye opening  experience for the boys.  I liked how they stand together and work to pay off their punishment. Along the  way a friendship develops between the boys and Jube. I loved his patience with them and how he taught them valuable lessons. 

Abigail has had a hard time since her husband passed. It was not a great marriage but she still grieves for her loss. Her anger towards Jub I thought was wrong  but in her eyes she felt Jube should have told her what he knew about her husband. I was glad to see how God was changing  both their hearts and finding  out that maybe they could put the past behind them. 

I won’t spoil the rest of the  story so readers be prepared for a few surprises. The boys have certainly learned responsibility and shows in the gifts they give. Jube  is my favorite character because instead of treating  the boys as a nuisance he showed them grace and taught them how to help others. It is a beautiful Christmas story where two people also find that there is someone out there for  them. 

GRACE BY SHELLEY SHEPARD GRAY 

 A Christmas Sisters of the Heart novel, Grace by Shelly Shepard Gray brings back the beloved characters from her popular series of inspirational novels set in a tightly knit Amish community. A touching, provocative, and uplifting tale in the bestselling vein of Beverly Lewis, Wanda Brunstetter, and Cindy Woodsmall, Grace is Christian fiction at its very finest—a heartwarming examination of selfless giving and the true meaning of Christmas from the acclaimed author of  the Seasons of Sugarcreek  series.

REVIEW

What a beautiful story that reflects God’s love and grace. Two people lost in the world looking for a place to stay for Christmas find themselves at the quaint Bed and  Breakfast. They were not expected as the family usually don’t have guests during the holidays. I loved how the family welcomed these two strangers and gave them a loving place to stay. At first not everyone is happy they have guests, but the author shows how important it is to not judge others. 

Melody is about to deliver a baby and needed to get away from her parents. She isn’t well received in her community and thought it was sad to see how she was treated. Her experience is one she doesn’t want anyone to know about and I think she blames herself for the attack another had because she didn’t step forward. Out of this event a child is soon to be born. Oh how I loved that Melody never once thought of giving this child away. Now she needs to figure out how she will support herself and her baby. 

Levi is hoping that he will be able to have a quiet holiday at the B&B but he soon realizes that it is not going to happen. He is still grieving the loss of his wife and child and the last thing he wants is to celebrate Christmas. His emotions are felt as he blames himself for their deaths. Guilt is eating him up and he needs to learn to let go. 

I liked how Melody and Levi slowly begin a friendship and start to share their past with each other. Melody worries that Levi will be a little afraid to be around her because she feels danger. Levi is very gentle with Melody and I liked how protective he felt when he hears her story. Melody soon learns about Levi’s past and at first acted a little upset. With emotions running high in this story we witness a miracle that mirrors another very special birth. I loved how the author tied these two stories together. This is a nice book to read to learn about grace and how it heals the broken-hearted. 

 HER HEART’S DESIRE

BY SHELLEY SHEPARD  GRAY

Mary Margaret Miller needs an escape from her small Amish community. She boards a bus, all alone, for a vacation in Pinecraft, Florida. Meeting Betsy and Lilly on the way, she's amazed to find two kindred spirits. They become fast friends and determine to have the best two weeks of their lives. For Mary, it starts when she meets Jayson Raber. The handsome and charming carpenter is taken by Mary from the get-go, but he has responsibilities back home in Kentucky--including a girl he's supposed to marry.

When someone from Mary's past shows up in Pinecraft, it seems like her perfect vacation is ruined. But that's nothing compared to what's coming when she realizes what Jayson has been hiding.

Take a vacation with New York Times bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray as she explores what happens when we allow our pasts to define our futures in this story of friendship, romance, and new beginnings.

MY REVIEW

This has been such an enjoyable book to read. I could feel the excitement as Mary steps on the bus to get out of her comfort zone. She needs this break to regroup and to  hopefully find a direction for her life. I loved how the  author introduces Betsy and Lillie to the story. Three young women traveling on the same bus going to the same place had to be a God thing. They quickly become friends and I adored the place they were staying at. The adventures they planned sounded exciting and their mutual desire to be friends was good for each of them. 

It is hard to say which character I liked the best because they each offer an adventure as they figure out where God is calling them. Mary seems to be the most unsure of her future and tends to hold onto things from the past. At times I thought maybe she was running away so she didn’t have to face her insecurity. I liked the interaction she has with Jayson and how their friendship developed slowly and respectfully. The author illustrates how hard forgiveness can be.  I loved reading how Mary and a friend from home run into each other in Pinecraft. I thought it took real courage for Esther to face Mary knowing how hurtful she has been to her. Mary finds it hard to forgive Esther but with God’s guidance we witness how freeing it can be to release bitterness and forgive. 

The story is filled with a look at how faith will guide you as you listen to God. He has a plan for each of us. Some of the characters find it hard to wait on God’s direction but when they try to move ahead of Him, they stumble and hurt feelings happen. Jayson is a good example of being afraid to stand up for what he wants. He is so focused on making others happy, he finds that he could miss the opportunity to find love. The author gives us a range of emotions from unhappiness, loneliness, forgiveness and finding  peace. I’m excited that this will be a series and can’t wait to follow the characters on their journey as they step out in faith. 

 CHRISTMAS AT THE AMISH BAKESHOP

A CHRISTMAS CAKE FOR REBECCA
New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Shelley Shepard Gray
When carpenter Aden returns to Lancaster after twenty years away, bakeshop owner Rebecca is dismayed to find he’s still as handsome and kind as ever. He broke her heart when he left the community back then. Will a holiday emergency provide a second chance at love, this time forever?
 
BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT EVER * USA Today Bestselling AuthorRachel J. Good
When a lonely widower with a sick daughter and a new cake decorator meet at the bakeshop, they discover they were once childhood playmates. But as each of them helps the other care for family, their neighborly kindness inspires a gift that only love could make possible . . .
 
THE CHRISTMAS CUPCAKE * USA Today Bestselling Author Loree Lough
A builder who never learned to read believes he must hide his fond feelings for a kind schoolteacher. But after they run into each other at the bakeshop, she offers to teach him—and as Christmas approaches, each of them learns a lesson about the great gift of love . . .

A CHRISTMAS CAKE FOR REBECCA BY SHELLEY SHEPARD GRAY

I could smell the baked goods as Rebecca worked at her shop. She has done well for herself and is content. Christmas is drawing near which means it is time for her to start prepping for her famous Christmas Cake. People order the famous cake starting in October just to make sure they  get one. I would love to have a taste of that cake as the author describes it so vividly. When Rebecca spots someone from her past she can’t believe her eyes. Aden is in town doing some remodeling work and is excited to see her again. Old memories for Rebecca surface as she remembers that Aden broke her heart. 

After twenty-five years Aden is hoping he can be forgiven by Rebecca. The story is a great look at pride as well. Rebecca has always made these special cakes all by herself. She doesn’t allow anyone to help her and takes great pleasure in seeing her cakes all lined up on Christmas Eve to picked up. This year turns out differently and Rebecca learns that it is okay to ask for help. Her cakes will always be special but she has to allow others to help her and share in the enjoyment of those special cakes. I liked how Aden stepped up and helped Rebecca which opened her eyes to see that he has changed over the years. The ending is sweet and Christmas cakes are enjoyed by all. 

BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT EVER BY RACHEL J. GOOD

Oh my was this a great and touching story. Lizzie is such a kind hearted person. She may be a bit clumsy but she would do anything  for anyone. I love how she found her way to Rebecca’s bakery shop and started working there. I loved how Rebecca was so patient with Lizzie and encouraged her to make her special cupcakes. My heart went out to Lizzie when she took over the care of her aunt. All alone she dies her best to work and  care for her aunt. 

Christian has his hands full with a young  daughter who is in the hospital getting ready for brain surgery. He tries to work and be with her as much  as possible. When he meets Lizzie there are a few sparks between them. When they discover they were childhood friends we watch them start to renew that special bond they have. Christian is such a nice  man and goes out of his way to take Lizzie  to work everyday along with her aunt. 

I loved the beautiful story of grace, kindness and helping others. The author writes a story that gave me tears as I witnessed two people who both have big hearts and are always looking out for others. It was a Christmas to remember as Lizzie and Christian grow closer and thank Hod for His blessings. 

THE CHRISTMAS CUPCAKE BY LOREE LOUGH

I have to first thank the author for shining a light on a subject I find very important. There are many people who do not know how to read. The author illustrates how a young teacher is dedicated to helping those who never learned to read. It is never to late to start learning and Tessa shows Asher that reading even as an adult can be achieved. 

Tessa and her brother Noah are very protective of each other. Their father is not kind and there has been rumors that he use to beat his wife before  she passed away. I like how the author talks about domestic abuse in a gentle way and  shows that it can happen to anyone. I love how Noah is always watching after his sister and worries about her being around  their father. 

Asher begins to slowly have feelings for Tessa and is very upset when he notices  a bruise on her face one day. He contains his anger but is determined to be near Tessa as much as possible to keep her from harm. Their relationship  grows and I like how gently their feelings were shared by a sweet and innocent kiss. This story may be a trigger for sone with the mention of abuse, but it is important to note that we should not turn our back in those who need help. The ending  is very nice and I liked how Tessa found peace and security. 

 CHRISTMAS IN SUAGR CREEK BY SHELLEY SHEPARD GRAY

This is a wonderful book that shares the meaning of Christmas through several characters. I loved each of them and enjoyed how the author illustrates family, love and hope. I really like Judith and how much she helped her family out. As much as she works, she has little time for herself. It’s is a busy time at the shop and customers seem to be coming from everywhere. 

Ben has been away for awhile and comes back to sale his family’s home. He doesn’t have good memories here and can’t wait to leave the town forever. God has a way to change our direction when we least expect it. Who would have thought that Ben would be working with Judith at her family’s store for the holidays?

The story shared how one couple is happy yet there was something that was missing. Lilly tries so hard to cook and be a dutiful wife. What she needs to find is her confidence and trust that  her husband adores her. 

Rebecca was probably one of my favorite characters. Her family is poor but she is embarrassed for anyone to find out. If only she would let the community know they need help, things would be easier for her and her family. Pride is something we all struggle with at sometime and Rebecca will learn that lesson through someone special. 

I loved how the author showed what the true meaning of Christmas is as we read how the characters experience unconditional live, acceptance and Jesus.