A Killer's Target by Dana R. Lynn

A Killer's Target

Book Summary

Taking refuge in Amish country
may be her only chance to survive…

After nearly being kidnapped at a crime scene, forensic photographer Leila Britton discovers the serial killer who murdered her twin sister has resurfaced—with Leila as his next intended victim. With her life and her daughter’s future at stake, Leila must place her trust in Lieutenant Brett Talbot to protect them. But danger follows them relentlessly, forcing them to seek refuge deep in Amish country. However safety is fleeting, and the killer seems to know every step she takes. Can Leila and Brett unmask the killer before he fulfills his ultimate goal—and Leila runs out of places to hide?

My Thoughts

A Killer’s Target by Dana R. Lynn grabbed my attention from the very first page and kept me up late, eagerly flipping pages to see how everything would unfold. The action begins right away and carries strong momentum throughout the story, creating a fast-paced blend of danger, suspense, and mystery. I enjoyed watching Leila Britton and Brett Talbot work together to uncover the truth, and the growing romance between them added warmth and heart to the tension. 

Leila’s daughter, Evie, was absolutely adorable and brought an extra touch of sweetness to the story. With plenty of twists, high-stakes moments, and a satisfying feel-good ending, A Killer’s Target is an engaging suspense novel that left me smiling. This is the kind of page-turner that delivers thrills, heart, and hope all the way to the final chapter.

If you’re in the mood for a suspenseful read, A Killer’s Target is now available on Amazon, along with the author’s other novels. If you haven’t started the Amish Country Danger series yet, you can begin with Amish Midwife Witness—and there’s more to look forward to! The next installment, The Marshal’s Key Witness, releases on November 24. Also, mark your calendar for August 4, when I’ll be a stop on the Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours for Seeking the Kidnapped Child by Deena Alexander. Wishing you a day filled with laughter, love, and a cozy stack of books waiting nearby. Until next time—keep turning pages and chasing great stories!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Trusting the Single Dad by Meghann Whistler

 Trusting the Single Dad

Book Summary

Making amends could give him

a future he never dreamed of.

Former bad boy Devin Spencer never thought his past would follow him back to Cape Cod—but neither did Cassie Reed. Tasked with reopening her family’s beloved summer camp, Cassie is determined to keep her distance from the man. But Devin’s dedication to giving his young daughter a stable life starts to break down her walls. As they grow closer, drawn together by their children and an undeniable connection, Cassie’s heartbreaking secret and Devin’s troubled history threaten to keep them apart. Can they find the courage to face the past and create the family they’ve both been searching for?

My Thoughts

Some books feel like a cozy conversation with a friend, and Trusting the Single Dad by Meghann Whistler has that same warm, inviting charm. I really enjoyed the author’s friendly writing style and the relatable characters who quickly won me over. Cassie and Devin were easy to root for, and Devin’s daughter, Hailey, was such a delightful addition to the story. This sweet romance took me through a full range of emotions, from joyful moments to genuine heartbreak, while gently exploring themes of forgiveness, family, teamwork, and helping others. I also appreciated the thread of faith woven naturally throughout the story, along with a romance that felt heartfelt and nicely paced. By the final page, I was smiling big and wishing I could spend just a little more time with these characters.

Looking for your next heartwarming read? Trusting the Single Dad is available now on Amazon, and Meghann Whistler fans have even more to look forward to—The Secret She Carries releases January 26, 2027. You can also browse the author’s other delightful novels, and if you follow her on Amazon, you’ll get a friendly nudge whenever a new book baby arrives. I’ll be back on Thursday, July 30, with Dana R. Lynn’s engaging A Killer’s Target. Until then, may your coffee stay warm, your TBR pile behave itself, and your next chapter be impossible to put down. 

Kris

The Avid Reader

This is how I feel when I go outside!

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Shielded by the Cowboy by Connie Queen

 Shielded by the Cowboy

Book Summary

A witness in danger…

and a protector standing guard.

Pregnant widow Holly Myers just wants a fresh start for her and her unborn child, but when she witnesses a double murder, her quiet life is shattered. On the run, she finds refuge with former Deputy Sheriff Clive Cantrell, who is determined to keep her safe. But with killers on their trail who’ll stop at nothing to silence Holly, staying alive might just be impossible. Especially when clues link the murders to a drug trafficking operation hidden on Clive’s family’s ranch. And stopping the criminals could prove lethal for them both.

My Thoughts

Shielded by the Cowboy by Connie Queen is a page turner.  I liked Holly who was looking for a fresh start and to protect her unborn child.  Clive is kind and protective despite  the memories Holly and her situation bring up.  Clive has a friendly, supportive family.   I enjoyed the suspense and action.  The tension builds as the story progresses.  There are twists and turns that keep Clive and Holly on their toes.  If Holly and Clive are to survive, they will need to trust each other.  I like how their relationship progresses, but I did feel it was a tad rushed at the end.  The author painted a picture with her words that brought the Texas setting to life. This was my first Connie Queen book, and I'm eager to read more of her stories.  Shielded by the Cowboy is a fast-moving tale with an unresponsive car, an astounding death, a protective cowboy, determined killers, trust troubles, a monster mother-in-law, and a helpful family.

Shielded by the Cowboy is available from Amazon*.  The next two books in the Thunder Ridge Justice series are Texas Cowboy Protector which comes out May 26 and Something for the Stolen Son on August 25.  If you follow Connie Queen on Amazon, they will send you an email when she has a new book release.  Thank you for stopping by today.  I will return on Tuesday, January 13 with Rescuing Her Firefighter by Carol Ross.  It is the first A Flame, Texas Novel.   I hope that you have a relaxing weekend.  Take care, stay warm, and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

*This post contains affiliate links.

An Unexpected Texas Reunion by Heidi Main

 An Unexpected Texas Reunion

Book Summary

Rebuilding a life

one paw print at a time.

After a traumatic experience, Brenna Park hopes that leading a youth summer camp with her emotional support dog, Lulu, will help ease her back into her life. Only, she didn’t expect to be sharing the responsibility with the man she left behind a decade ago. Recently widowed, Owen McCaw returns to his family’s ranch with his infant daughter to mend his estranged relationship with his parents and agrees to help out at his mother’s camp. As Brenna and Owen clash over every decision, they can’t ignore their growing connection either. When camp comes to an end, the two must decide if risking their hearts is worth a second chance at love…

My Thoughts

An Unexpected Texas Reunion by Heidi Main a sweet and emotional second chance romance.  I thought the story was well-written with steady pacing.  I enjoyed getting to know Brenna, Owen, little Evie, and catching up with the McCaw family.  I felt for Brenna and Owen.  Each of them has had an emotional upheaval in their life.  Returning to Serenity gives them a chance to heal.  The chemistry between Brenna and Owen was apparent.  I was rooting for them.  I thought the youth summer camp was a great idea.  I like the faith messages that Owen shared with the youth.   I love Owen’s daughter, Evie and Brenna’s emotional support dog, Lulu. 

An Unexpected Texas Reunion is the fifth and final book in the Triple C Ranch series.  It can be read as a standalone for those new to the series, but I do recommend reading all the books in the Triple C Ranch series.  The themes in An Unexpected Texas Reunion are forgiveness, healing, and second chances (for romance and careers).  An Unexpected Texas Reunion is a special story with a darling daughter, happy parents, a serene ranch, curious campers, comforting support dog, exploring opportunities, and a second chance romance.

An Unexpected Texas Reunion is available from Amazon* as well as other major booksellers.  You can find the other books in the Triple C Ranch series here.  I am looking forward to reading Heidi Main's Under the Mistletoe series which can be read for free if you are a member of Kindle Unlimited.  Thank you for stopping by today.  I hope that you had a jolly Christmas.  The day went by so quickly.  I will return tomorrow with Taking a Second Shot by Leslie DeVooght.  It is very cold today, so I will be spending the day under my electric throw (it should not get this cold in Florida).  I hope that you have a joyful day.  Take care, stay warm, and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

*This post contains affiliate links. 

Trail of Mountain Secrets by Darlene L. Turner

 Trail of Mountain Secrets

Book Summary

A case of mistaken identity.
A K-9 to the rescue.

Park archaeologist Violet Hoyt’s wilderness search for a missing family’s remains takes a deadly turn when a gunman mistakes her for someone else. The discovery of a grave of skulls reopens a cold case, and someone is determined to keep the truth hidden. With the help of K-9 handler Maverick Shaw and his human-remains-detector dog, Wolf, Violet must find the final family member—and evade the masked man who has targeted her. Soon Violet learns a shocking secret: She has a presumed dead twin sister who may still be alive, and now they’re both in danger. Can Violet and Maverick expose a conspiracy before this Christmas becomes their last?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

My Thoughts

Trail of Mountain Secrets by Darlene L. Turner is a gripping story.  I thought the story was well-written with steady pacing.  I liked the main characters, Violet and Maverick.  I just loved Maverick’s smart and protective dog, Wolf. Maverick’s daughter is a sweetheart.  I enjoyed the action, suspense, and mystery.  The plot has surprising twists and a tense reveal. I enjoyed both the mystery and the second chance romance, and the epilogue wrapped up the story well.  Trail of Mountain Secrets is the second book in the National Park Protectors series, and it can be read on its own.  Trail of Mountain Secrets is a page turner with skeleton searching, continual assaults, a clever canine, a second chance romance, emotional moments, a darling daughter, and dramatic twist. 

Trail of Mountain Secrets is available from Amazon* and other major booksellers (Barnes & Noble, Walmart, BAM).  The first book in the National Park Protectors series is Danger in the Wilderness.  You can find the author's other novels here.  If you follow Darlene L. Turner on Amazon, they will send you an email when she has a new book release. Would you like to win a copy of Trail of Mountain Secrets? Enter the Goodreads Giveaway to win a copy (it ends in seven days).  Good Luck! Thank you for stopping by today.  

I will return on Tuesday, November 26 with Amish Midwife Witness b Dana R. Lynn. Are you ready for Thanksgiving? It is hard to believe that it is just a couple of days away. I have purchased all the items that I need, but I cannot find my pumpkin pie recipe.  My mother loved the pie I made last year, and I want to recreate it this year.  I will keep searching (it is here somewhere).  I hope that you have a magnificient Monday.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

*This post contains affiliate links.

Her Amish Refuge by Pamela Desmond Wright

 Her Amish Refuge

Book Summary

Could her safe haven in a storm

Be a path back to her faith?

Caught in a blizzard pregnant and alone, former Amish woman Florene Schroder stumbles upon an unexpected sanctuary on an Amish farm. She never expects her rescuer to be Gil Kestler, a gentle giant from the community she left behind years ago. Forced together as they brave the storm, their wounded hearts slowly begin to warm toward one another. But as the snow starts to melt, can they conquer their fears to embrace love…or will the secrets they harbor keep them apart?

My Thoughts

I enjoyed Her Amish Refuge by Pamela Desmond Wright.  I was quickly drawn into the story, and I kept reading until I finished reading it.  I liked that the story had romance, family drama, and suspense.   Gil was a unique main character.  He is a tall fellow (around seven feet tall) which would make him stand out in an Amish community.  I felt for Gil and how an incident from childhood shaped his life.  I wanted to strangle Gil’s brother, Eli, and his wife.  Talk about a selfish pair of individuals.  They did not seem to appreciate the wonderful life that they had on the farm.  My heart went out to Florene. I liked that she could look past Gil’s size to see the wonderful man inside.  

Faith was beautifully woven into the story.  I marked several passages that spoke to me.  I was especially drawn to the area where Florene speaks to Pastor Michael. I was amazed at the strength of Gil’s faith.  I wish mine was as strong as his. While Her Amish Refuge is part of the Schroder sister’s series, it can be read as a standalone.  It was great to catch up with all the Schroder sisters.  Her Amish Refuge is a tender tale with a raging blizzard, a gentle giant, an injured lady, a narcissistic couple, a bawling baby, a compassionate mother, and a hopeful future.

Her Amish Refuge is available from Amazon as well as other major booksellers (you can find it at Walmart too).  The other Schroder Sister books are Bonding Over the Amish Baby, Her Surprise Amish Match, and The Cowboy's Amish Haven. You can find Pamela Desmond Wright's other books here.  Thank you for stopping by today.  On Wednesday, April 30, I am a stop on the Celebrate Lit Tour for Lizzie's Little Mouse by Anne Blackburne.  It is the eighth book in The Heart of the Amish series.  I hope that you will join me.  I am off to work on my bedroom closet.  I am not sure how it happened, but it is a mess (I can barely step inside my closet to look at my clothes).  I need to remove everything which will allow me to organize, straighten, and get rid of anything that I do not need.  I am in for a tedious afternoon, but the results will be worth it.  I hope that your afternoon will be more entertaining than mine!  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

An Amish Widow's New Love by Vannetta Chapman

 An Amish Widow's New Love

Book Summary

She thinks she’s done with romance

But love has other ideas…

When newly widowed Hope Lambright moves to Indiana with her three sons, the last thing on her mind is romance. And much like his new neighbor, widower Amos Yoder thought love was part of his past. But when Hope boldly asks Amos for a job at his Amish outdoor market, he finds he can’t say no, and soon their professional relationship blossoms into something more. They’ve both loved and lost once. Will they be brave enough to risk their hearts for a second time? 

My Thoughts

An Amish Widow’s New Love by Vannetta Chapman is a darling story.  Amos Yoder’s has an empty nest now that his five daughters have married, but it may not be that way for long.  I like Vannetta Chapman’s writing style.  It is friendly and engaging.  The characters are friendly and relatable.  I felt for Hope whose middle son, Lucas, is struggling since the death of his father, and she is hoping that a new town will be good for all of them. I enjoyed visiting the market again.  It is a large operation which gets busier each year.  I like how faith was woven into the story.  An Amish Widow’s New Love is the sixth book in the Indiana Amish Market series.  It can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading each book in this delightful series.  It was great to catch up with Amos’s daughters and their families. The Yoder clan continues to expand, and the market is a family affair.  I was happy and sad to reach the end.  I liked the ending, but I am sad that it is the last book in the series.  An Amish Widow’s New Love is a heartwarming tale with a new town, a lemon of a home, a troubled teen, a caring community, piles of paperwork, and a fresh start.

Indiana Amish Market Series

Book 1: An Amish Proposal for Christmas

Book 2: Her Amish Adversary

Book 3: An Unusual Amish Winter Match

Book 4: The Mysterious Amish Bachelor

Book 5: A Courtship for the Amish Spinster

Book 6: An Amish Widow's New Love

An Amish Widow's New Love is available from Amazon.  You can find the other books in the Indiana Amish Market series here.  You can follow Vannetta Chapman on Amazon, and they will send you an email when she releases a new book. Thank you for popping by today.  I will return on Tuesday, April 15 with Another Fine Mess by Lindy Ryan.  I am off to continue my hunt for someone to install insulation and a vapor barrier under my home.  I know that I will find someone eventually (they either make appointments and do not show up or they show up and never send the estimate).  I hope that you have a jolly good day (I was watching British shows last night).  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.