This was such an amazing conclusion to the series, the Salt River Strangler, and even the growing love between Tony and River. Once again Mehl had me This was such an amazing conclusion to the series, the Salt River Strangler, and even the growing love between Tony and River. Once again Mehl had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Not only following a new case (which was fascinating!), but wondering when the strangler was going to make his move. In case you were wondering, I read it all in one sitting.
The thing I appreciate most about Mehl’s writing is her faith themes. They are always blended into the story perfectly, and just naturally come from the characters at the appropriate times. It’s not preachy by any stretch of the imagination. But it’s truthful, relatable, and oh so touching. We’ve seen I think the most growth from River in this series. Well maybe that’s not being fair to Tony. They’ve both grown, and to see it all sort of come together in this novel was wonderful. Reminds us that we’re all growing with the Lord. We’ll have setbacks, but we need to dust ourselves off, get rid of the doubt, and keep our focus upward.
I think of them all, this was my favorite case for River and Tony. The fact that we got to see tidbits from several cold cases, thanks to the podcasting storyline, was really intriguing to me. I would listen to her podcast! But it also makes you pause and wonder if there are similar podcasters today, could they be in trouble as well? I mean my brain was going all over the place thinking about this. And Mehl writes so well that I can vividly see everything play out in my mind. Which can be good and bad – ha!
With exciting twists and turns, and a fast paced ending, suspense readers are sure to enjoy the last book in this amazing series. While I’m sorry to see these characters go, I know Mehl has more writing up her sleeve, so I’ll just anxiously await to see what comes next. Not only do I highly recommend Cold Vengeance, but I highly recommend the entire series. And honestly, they should be read in order so you can get the entire experience of the Salt River Strangler. Just trust me on that one. ...more
Caleb - swoon. He'd do anything for the woman he loves, who also happens to be his best friend. Hedlund does such a fantastic job of writing this trouCaleb - swoon. He'd do anything for the woman he loves, who also happens to be his best friend. Hedlund does such a fantastic job of writing this troupe. It's not always my favorite to read, because I think it has to be presented just right in order to make it work. And Hedlund makes it work.
The thought of a bride ship has always intrigued me, and I remember reading Hedlund's earlier series. I was so excited when I found out more were coming and she did not disappoint. She stays true to the history of the bride ship, as well as the setting. But she adds these great twists (like marriage of convenience - yes please!) that really enhances the story.
This is the start of another amazing bride ship series. I can't wait to see what comes next! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
"If you're always planning every step and coming up with contingency plans, are you really trusting in the Lord?"
A Run at Love is another winner from "If you're always planning every step and coming up with contingency plans, are you really trusting in the Lord?"
A Run at Love is another winner from the amazingly talented Toni Shiloh. If this book were in the Kentucky Derby, it would beat out all the others just like Secretariat did years ago. Yep, it's that good. Full of romance, kissing, faith, conviction (yes the Lord can convict you through your reading!), and so much more. Forgiveness, second chances, relatable characters, horses, sweet and funny goats, and bro texting (ummmm give me all the bro texting please!). Have I talked you into reading it yet?
I'm always a little hesitant about the friends to more romances. I just feel like sometimes they can be dry with little to no chemistry. That is NOT the case here thankfully. Shiloh brings Piper and Tuck together with playful banter, tough conversations, love, devotion, honesty, and oh that chemistry. Let's just say the first kiss - yeah I was fanning. But there were also tears. Especially when Tuck bared his heart. Oh he was so sweet, and the way he talked about who Piper was on the inside as being important - yeah if I were her I probably would have fell to my knees.
Now, I don't want to give any spoilers, but I did enjoy the secondary storyline for Piper's parents. That's all I can really say, except I enjoyed what Toni did with it. It shows they too were Christian, yet human. Prone to make mistakes. In fact that was a big takeaway/reminder from this story - Christian's are not perfect. Not even close. We shouldn't judge or assume things about others, and we certainly shouldn't put them on a perfect pedestal.
But perhaps the biggest take away for me was what Tuck needed to learn as well. God's plans are best. His timing is best. We can make all the plans we want, but if it doesn't fall in line with what God wants, then there's really no point. We're wasting time and will end up frustrating if it doesn't follow our plan to a t, which by the way it never does. Shiloh did a great job of showing Tuck's emotions and thoughts as he struggled and tried to find his way around this concept.
Another bonus? We get a peek at what's coming next in the series and let me tell you - I am here for it! I need Chris to get a gal. He's so funny, and I think I would enjoy his story very much. Release day can't come fast enough lol. But until then, make sure you get your hands on this book. Then carve out a good pocket of time to read. Derby hats not required, but they do make it more fun. ;)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more