This week is all about Susanne Matthews

All for Love by Susanne Matthews

Publisher & Release Date: Anaiah Press, May 26, 2015

Time and setting: Present Day, Vermont, USA  

Genre: Contemporary Romance/ Romantic Suspense

Length: 257 pages

Heat Level: 1 Sweet Heart

Rating: 4 Gold Crowns

To overcome your fear, you must first face it. 

Someone is out to destroy Greg Simmons and everyone he has ever loved. After an accident leaves his teenage daughter depressed and distraught, Greg will do anything to make her happy again, including hiring a bodyguard to protect her. 

Olivia Marshall lost both her fiancé and her cousin in a deadly avalanche. She has vowed never to set foot on a ski hill again. But now, working as a bodyguard with Anderson Security, Olivia must face her greatest fears to save Greg and his daughter. 

Something about Olivia’s determination strikes a chord in Greg, but will she be the salvation he needs, or will he be her destruction? 

Buy Link:

http://smile.amazon.com/All-Love-Susanne-Matthews-ebook/dp/B00VP3TO94/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1435419745&sr=1-1&keywords=all+for+love+susanne+matthews

Add to Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24388222-all-for-love

Vikki’s Musings

I am a huge fan of Susanne Matthews. Once I read Echoes of the Past, I was hooked, and searched for her entire back list and read all of them. All For Love is a bit of a departure from her usual writing style. Normally she writes sensual romantic suspense. This book is still a romantic suspense, but it has overtones of an inspirational story. While this is not my favorite book of hers, I did enjoy it.

Andrew Gregory Robertson is an author of hugely successful spy thrillers. When his daughter is almost killed in a car explosion that does kill her mother, a movie star and his ex-girlfriend, he turns to his cousin to protect Sheena. When Olivia Cummings is assigned as his daughter’s bodyguard, because she was once an Olympian skier and his daughter wants to try out for the team, he is immediately attracted to her. He will not find it hard to become her husband in name only to provide cover for his daughter. His problem will be keeping it in name only.

Olivia hasn’t skied in five years, ever since the avalanche that claimed the life of her fiancée and cousin, leaving Olivia alive. Her guilt over not perishing with them is almost more than she can bear.

Will Olivia be able to maintain her distance from her new husband and protect her charge from the maniac who is determined to end her young life, or will she give into her feelings for the man she has fantasized over for years?

While the overtones of an inspirational are definitely in the book, it is not overdone at all. It is refreshing to read a romantic suspense that does not have a sexually driven romance. The romance between Greg and Olivia focuses on their growing love and plays done anything sexual, but the romance is very fulfilling, and I enjoyed it a great deal.

Olivia is a great character. She is fearless in her desire to protect Sheena. She has strong ties to her family and it’s obvious that her loved ones are central to her life. Although she never planned to sky again, to protect her charge, she faces her fear.

While Greg has never had a close relationship with his daughter, his love for her come through loud and clear. He will do whatever is needed to ensure Sheena’s safety, even if it means putting his own life in danger. It’s refreshing to have a male character in tune with his spirituality for a change, a man whose honor is part of his very being.

 I am glad I have the opportunity to read All for Love. If you enjoy a tale with a sweet romance and a touch of faith intermingled in, yet with plenty of action and suspense, then you will enjoy this great book. Happy reading!

Retro Book Review: The White Carnation by Susanne Matthews

The White Carnation by Susanne Matthews

Publisher & Release Date: Crimson Press, April 20, 2015

Time and setting: Present Day, Boston area, USA  

Genre: Contemporary Romance/ Romantic Suspense

Length: 270 pages

Heat Level: 1 Scorching Hot Flames

Rating: 5 Gold Crowns

The last person disgraced reporter Faye Lewis wants back in her life is Detective Rob Halliday, the man she blames for ruining her career and breaking her heart. But when she finds an old friend murdered, he's the one she calls.

For the past year, Rob and his team have been hunting the Harvester, a serial killer who ritualistically murders new mothers and vanishes with their infants. What Rob doesn't need is another case, especially one involving his ex-fiancée.

Then Faye is assaulted, and Rob realizes the cases are connected. She may hold the answers he needs to find the elusive killer. But the more they investigate, the more complex the situation becomes. Can they set the past aside and work together, or will the Harvester and his followers reap another prize?

Buy Links:

Crimson Romance: http://www.crimsonromance.com/romantic-suspense-novels/white-carnation/

Amazon: http://smile.amazon.com/White-Carnation-Harvester-Susanne-Matthews-ebook/dp/B00UMBE2KG/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1433862405&sr=1-1&keywords=the+white+carnation

B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-white-carnation-susanne-matthews/1121415073?ean=9781440591181

Add to Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25127070-the-white-carnation?ac=1

Vikki’s Musings

This is not the first book I have read by Susanne Matthews, and it will not be the last! Once I read Echoes of the Past, I was hooked, and searched for her entire back list and read all of them. I love her writing style, and The White Carnation is another fantastic read by this amazing author. This is the first book in the Harvester series, and I can’t wait to read the next one, and I am not normally a huge fan of romantic suspense, especially one with thriller elements.

Faye Lewis isn’t happy attending garden parties and dog shows, but when she is demoted for writing a story that later proofs false, she is relegated to mundane stories, instead of investigative ones. When she receives a message from her BFF’s mother, she goes to her apartment only to find the woman with her throat slit.

In a knee-jerk reaction, she calls her ex-fiancée, Rob Halliday, a detective with Boston PD. He quickly takes over the investigation, even though he is tied up with the search for a serial killer, the Harvester. When Faye is attacked, but not killed, he rushes her to safety until they can find the Harvester.

Faye studies the evidence and tells Rob she thinks the Harvester is part of a cult. This starts them on a chase that leads to danger. When Faye is kidnapped, Rob is determined to find the only woman for him. Will he find her in time, or lose her forever?

Wow, just wow! This is a page turner from the first page to the last. Ms. Matthews has penned one exciting, suspenseful story. The plot kept me guessing to the end and I couldn’t stop reading. I love when that happens. This fast-paced tale intrigued me, pulling me deeper into the story, riveted to what would happen next.

 The plot has it all, mystery, thriller, romance, all in one phenomenal read. The White Carnation is filled with twists and turns, a truly compelling story. This is definitely a plot driven stories. The romantic element is a second chance romance, and there is great chemistry between the hero and heroine.

For such a plot-driven tale, the characters are well-developed. I particularly liked Rob’s character; he’s a great hero, loyal, protective without being over-bearing, and determined. Faye’s character has a tough exterior, and she’s fearless and doesn’t give up when faced with a horrific experience.

If you want a story that will keep you riveted throughout the entire book, then The White Carnation is for you. This is a great start on a promising series. Happy reading! 

Book Review: The White Iris by Susanne Matthews

The White Iris by Susanne Matthews

(The Harvester series, Book 3)

Publisher & Release Date: Crimson Romance, February 8, 2016  

Time and setting: Present Day, Boston, Atlanta, Alaska

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Romantic Suspense/Thriller

Length: 318 pages

Heat Level: 2 Flame

Rating: 5 Gold Crowns

Book Description:

Time's running out for Special Agent Trevor Clark and his FBI task force. They're no closer to uncovering the identity of the Prophet, a dangerous serial killer who has been murdering new mothers and vanishing with their infants. If Trevor can't unlock the clues, the killer's threats to unleash what the FBI suspects is biological warfare could mean death for all of them. His only recourse is to swallow his pride and reach out to his former fiancée, the CDC's renowned virologist, Dr. Julie Swift.

Two years ago, Julie ended their engagement after Trevor abandoned her when she needed him most. Now, faced with the possibility of the greatest epidemic since the Spanish flu, she has to put her faith and her safety, as well as that of countless others, into the hands of a man she doesn't trust. Can they set aside their differences to stop the Prophet, and in doing so, will they find the love they lost?

From the streets of Boston to the wilds of Alaska, this thrilling conclusion to the Harvester Series takes several turns you won't see coming!

Buy Link:

http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AOH6LCE

Add to Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28382243-the-white-iris

Vikki’s Musings

I have been a fan of Susanne Matthews for quite some time, ever since I read Echoes of the Past. When I received a request from the author asking me to read The White Iris, in exchange for an honest review I immediately agreed. I have read the first two book in the Harvester series, so of course, I had to read the final story in the series. Wow! This is a hold-on-to-your-seat thriller. I could not put this one down.

Dr. E.J. Swift is a virologist with the CDC, and Julie discovers two missing vials of two highly contagious viruses. When she brings it to the attention of her cousin and fellow worker, the vials suddenly reappear. To be on the safe side, the mystery is brought to the director. He informs the director of Homeland security and he places a gag order.

The mysterious serial killer, known as “The Prophet,” is on another killing spree. Special Agent Trevor Clark of the FBI is desperate to find this vicious murderer. He goes to the CDC to tell them he has evidence that suggests this deadly killer plans to unleash what he refers to as the Great Burning on the United States. His ex-fiancée, Julie, suggests the maniac may plan to use either biochemical or chemical warfare, using an agent such as sarin gas or make a deadly new virus that could potentially kill millions.

As they work together, to at last capture the evil killer, they realize their feelings for each other are still as strong as ever. Can they stop “The Prophet” in time to save millions of people from this deadly, new virus in time and rekindle the love they have for each other at the same time?

Wow, just wow! The White Iris is a nail-biting, hair-pulling read from the first page to the end. Ms. Matthews has certainly done her research. Her details regarding the virus are incredible, and the vivid description of the slaughter of innocent young women is chilling. This is not my typical kind of story, but this book may change my mind!

This is a plot-driven tale with a good deal of romance included. While I enjoyed Julie and Trevor’s love story, what was most riveting and compelling is the thriller aspect of this book. The plot is so well presented, I’m in amazement of Ms. Matthews’ talent to spin such an incredible tale!

This is a must read for anyone who enjoys a great thriller. The White Iris has it all, mystery, suspense and romance. I highly recommend this fantastic book. I’m sure you will enjoy it as much as I have. While it is not necessary to read the series in order, I do suggest you start with The White Carnation to fully appreciate Ms. Matthews’ genius. Happy reading!

Secrets and Lies by Susanne Matthews

Publisher & Release Date: Self-Published, November 16, 2015

Time and setting: Present Day, Braden, Iowa

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Romantic Suspense

Length:  340 pages

Heat Level: 1 Sweet Heart

Rating: 4.5 Gold Crowns

Book Description: 

DEA agent, Emily Shepherd, is after the Chef, a crystal meth cook, who sets up labs for the Mexican cartel and walks away—the same man responsible for the deaths of her husband and unborn child. Her search leads her to Braden, Iowa, a small town just right for the Chef’s specialty. But identifying her quarry won’t be easy when she’s up against a woman who sees her as a threat, a male chauvinistic deputy sheriff, and an attractive school principal who might just be at the center of it all.

Jackson Harris has sworn off women. Life is satisfactory, if lonely until he meets a hazel-eyed damsel in distress who gets under his skin, and triggers that protective instinct of his. There's a killer in town, one who may or may not be a notorious drug lord. Finding him, and keeping his town, his students, and Emily safe may be harder than he thinks.

Love is breaking out in Braden, Iowa. Follow all the romance with this collection of stories. Secrets and Lies is part of the Hearts of Braden Series, a multi-author series Secrets and Lies stands alone for your reading enjoyment, but the story doesn't need to end there.

Buy Link:

http://smile.amazon.com/Secrets-Lies-Hearts-Braden-Book-ebook/dp/B0184FUC5U/

Add to Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27862859-secrets-and-lies

Vikki’s Musings

Once I read one of Susanne Matthews’ books, I was hooked. Her writing style flows beautifully across the page, her pacing is always superb. She pulls me into the story from the beginning and hold me enthralled until the last. When I received a request from the author to read Secrets and Lies in exchange for an honest review, I immediately accepted. As always, this book had me sitting on the edge of my seat at times and pulled at my heart strings.

DEA agent, Emily Jacobson Shepherd goes undercover to find the Meth cooker, known as the chef. It's reported that he is setting up operations in Braden, Iowa. Emily and the chef go way back. He was responsible for the death of her husband and her unborn child, along with coming close to taking her life as well, leaving her permanently disabled.

When Jackson Harris comes to the aid of a young woman, little does he know she’s the nutritionist sent to implement the Healthy Living Initiative for his school. The attraction is fierce between them, but when murders start happening, he wonders if he can protect the woman he is falling in love with, or will the chef get to her first?

 I really liked Emily’s character from the start. Her tragic backstory, which Ms. Matthews expertly weaves into Secrets and Lies, gains my empathy right away. She is a strong woman, determined to bring down the chef at all costs. She does not let the loss she suffered that left her crippled to keep her from accomplishing her goal. Ms. Matthews writing is so moving, it brought tears to my eyes when I learned what had happened to her and her family.

Jackson is a great hero. He’s strong, good looking, determined to protect his school and loyal to his friends. Even though Emily tries to keep him at arm’s length, he burrows his way under her defenses. Although he has good reason to be leery of secretive women, he looks below the surface to the loving and caring woman Emily is, and he is determined to earn her trust.

I truly loved Secret and Lies. The only thing I would have liked to have seen is a little stronger finish. While is does have a happy ending, it felt a bit rushed to me. However, the rest of the book is so strong, it deserves a great rating. If you enjoy stories with intrigue and suspense with a bit of a mystery, then you will love this book. Happy reading!

Come Home for Christmas by Susanne Matthews

Publisher & Release Date: MHSLM Publishing, December 9, 2015

Time and setting: Present Day, Appleton, Canada

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Holiday

Length:  70 pages

Heat Level: 1 Sweet Heart

Buy Link:

                       

http://www.amazon.com/Come-Home-Christmas-Susanne-Matthews-ebook/dp/B01976J9UO/

Ever since I discovered Susanne Matthews I have been hooked. She is such a versatile author. Everything from romantic suspense to inspirational, to now a Christmas tale. I know when I open one of her books. I will not want to put it down until I have finished it.

Krista is coming home for the first time in ten years. Her uncle kicked her out once she finished school, but now for some reason, he has left her a share in the family farm as long as she spends Christmas there.

When Ethan finds out his father double-crossed step-cousin, Krista, he sets out to right this terrible injustice. Once Krista finds out about her uncle’s deceit, will she want to accept Ethan back into her life, or has his father destroyed their chance at happiness.

I fell in love with Krista Jacobs character from the start. She had a very raw deal from her NHL ex-husband, but she does not let it turn her bitter. The way she accepted Ethan’s adopted daughter melted my heart.

Ethan Terrance is everything I love about a hero. His determination to right his father’s wrong showed what an honorable man he is. On top of that, his willingness to accept responsibility for his god-daughter when her parents were killed touched my heart.

Come Home for Christmas is a heart-warming and sweet story, perfect for this time of year. If you enjoy clean, holiday tales, then you will love this book. Happy reading!

4 Gold Crowns

A Baby for Christmas Dilys J. Carnie

Publisher & Release Date: Self-published, October 7, 2014

Time and setting: Present Day, Snowdonia Mountains, Wales

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Holiday

Length:  85 pages

Heat Level: 1 Flame

Buy Link:

http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Christmas-Season-Romance-Book-ebook/dp/B00O9VKG96/

This is not the first book I have read by Dilys Carnie, so when I stumbled across this Christmas story, I immediately downloaded it. I always enjoy books with babies, so I looked forward to reading A Baby for Christmas with great anticipation.

After a brief encounter at her friend’s house in the states, Belle discovers she is going to have a baby. Determined to manage on her own, the last thing she wants is the father of her baby showing up on her doorstep.

Ethan has never been able to forget Belle, especially when he knows he irresponsible he had been six months ago. He has to make sure there were no consequences from his out of control behavior.

When Ethan learns Belle is expecting, he has his work cut out. How does he convince her he would want her even if there was not a baby on the way?

A Baby for Christmas is an enjoyable read that is perfect for a lazy afternoon. The characters are both likable and the story is touching. I truly loved Ethan’s character a great deal. His determination to win Belle over is touching. I recommend you give this book to anyone who enjoys second chance love stories. Happy reading!

4 Gold Crowns

A Christmas Spark by Ciara Knight

Publisher & Release Date: Defy the Dark Publishing, November 5, 2015

Time and setting: Present Day,  

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Holiday

Length:  106 pages

Heat Level: 1 Sweet Heart

Buy Link:

http://www.amazon.com/A-Christmas-Spark-Ciara-Knight-ebook/dp/B017OESWQS/

I discovered Ciara Knight’s Sweetwater County series and fell in love. When I saw this was available on Facebook, I immediately downloaded it. As always, A Christmas Spark is another sweet and heart-warming story, perfect for the holidays.

Sara Foster has been plagued by terrible memories since she was five years old when an accident took her father’s life. Believing he had left her and her baby sister on Christmas Eve, it has made her wary of men, giving her abandonment issues. After going through a bad marriage, she is definitely not looking for another man.

When her sister sets her up on a blind date, she runs to the cabin from her childhood only to discover the blind date wanted to avoid her as much as she wanted to avoid him. He has also come to the cabin to do work for her brother-in-law.

Is it possible for Sara to discover the truth of what happened on that fateful Christmas, allowing her to open her heart to Dalton and find a true and abiding love?

I thoroughly enjoyed this emotionally-charged story of finding love after unbearable heartache for both the hero and heroine. Normally, I am skeptical of short stories where instant love happens, but this one is so well written, I found it believable. Ms. Knight ties A Christmas Spark up with a lovely bow in the epilogue. I highly recommend this wonderful book. Happy reading!

4.5 Gold Crowns