Between The Pages - How to Spot a Fake

How to Spot a Fake 

Rachelle Paige Campbell 

June 2023 

When the wrong John Smith appears on Lovelyn Pettigrew’s doorstep, is he too good to be true? Or could he be exactly who she needs?

Lovelyn Pettigrew wants to transform the mansion and collection of fine art inherited from her grandmother into a world-class museum. She has one week to submit a proposal to her family foundation. Her parents prefer the museum to operate downtown with a staff they’ve already hired. Her success depends on authenticating the works their curator dismissed. She finds the receipt for the egg rumored to be one of the missing Imperial Faberge works. When she calls the gallery in London, she is given an email address to send proof of the artifact.

Her email reaches the wrong John Smith. 

Finishing his degree in art conservation, John is passionate about art. One of many side hustles to afford life in Chicago, he runs a website dedicated to tracking down tips about some of the most famous missing works of art. When he checks his inbox, he is floored by the contents of the email. With weeks until he graduates from university as a mature, thirty-year-old student, he is looking for a full-time position and the correspondence could be the opportunity of a lifetime. 

Working side-by-side, John and Lovelyn grow close and their mutual respect deepens into something more. When the mistaken identity is revealed, shocking them both, they must choose between the future or each other. He might not be who she expected, but could he be exactly who she needs? 

Between The Pages 

This sweet romance had a well-developed and engaging plot. The main characters had a realistic instant connection that grew throughout the story. The cast of characters added plenty of drama. The author pulls you into the story with a rocky relationship between Lovelyn and her father, as well as John and his best friend Henry, whose character was intriguing. The story moved along at a smooth pace. Great for art enthusiasts, this book was an enjoyable read. 

Rating

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - Christmas at Solace Lake

Christmas at Solace Lake 

Jana Richards 

October 2023 

It’s Christmas time at Solace Lake Lodge, but a series of thefts threatens everyone’s holiday spirit.

An emergency brings Drew Barnes to Solace Lake Lodge, an inn deep in the Minnesota woods owned by his aunt and uncle. He’s sure desperation is the only reason they’d allow him to fill in as their bookkeeper. No one in his family has believed in him since his mistake got him fired from his previous job. Soon after he arrives, Drew is disheartened to discover a series of thefts and financial irregularities. The last thing he wants is to be put in the middle of another crime. 

Sous chef Celeste Bishop has made a good life for herself and her nine-year-old daughter in the three years she’s worked, and lived, at Solace Lake Lodge. After being unfairly fired, this was the only job she could get, and she’s grateful her gamble on the lodge paid off. The only sticking point is the isolation since she never learned to drive. How can she show her daughter independence when she’s always relying on others? 

Drew sees Celeste’s frustration and offers to teach her to drive. A powerful attraction ignites between them, and soon deeper, stronger emotions blossom. Drew is all in, but Celeste resists her feelings. She’s nine years older than Drew. An interracial relationship didn’t work for her parents. And loving Drew feels like a betrayal of her deceased husband.

As Christmas approaches, the thefts escalate. Can Drew stop the thief and redeem himself in his family’s eyes—and his own? And can he convince Celeste they deserve the gift of a happily ever after this Christmas?

Between The Pages 

This is the fourth book in the Love at Solace Lake series, but you don’t have to read the previous books to read this one. This story stands well on its own with a budding romance between Drew and Celeste, who are strong leading characters. The rest of the cast is enjoyable, especially Celeste’s daughter, Hope who is so sweet, I would have liked to see her in more scenes. The author wrote a compelling story filled with heavy emotions of family drama, loss, and insecurities. Also written well was the discrimination of race and disability. Added to the romance is a little mystery of someone stealing and hacking into the lodge’s computer. The mystery was a fun bonus and propelled the read to a satisfying ending. The beautiful cover and story will definitely put you in the Christmas spirit.

Rating 

4.5 stars

Between The Pages - Cruel Lessons

Cruel Lessons 

Randy Overbeck 

October 2023 

On a school camping trip, fifth graders experiment with a dangerous new hallucinogen and die in a horrific accident, their deaths shattering the quiet town. Assistant Superintendent Ken Parks, hoping to redeem a fatal mistake from his past, grasps the opportunity to conduct the district investigation of how students are getting the drugs. Almost before he begins, the cops make a stunning arrest. But Parks battles on, convinced the real pusher is still out there, poisoning more kids until he receives an anonymous if he continues, those close to him will pay. Is Parks willing to risk those he loves for a chance at redemption? 

Between The Pages 

This mystery story had a steady flow from start to finish. After the tragic death of four young boys, the story highlighted a suspenseful who-done-it and intensified when an innocent character was arrested. You’ll be glued to the story as the author drops clues to solve the mystery but keeps you guessing until the end where all the twists unravel. There were several points of view, and most were pivotal to the story. Ken, who is the main character and led the investigation, is a married man and set on making his marriage work, so it was surprising to read a friendship turned into something much deeper. More hints could have been revealed to show his conflicted heart. Overall, this mystery was an engaging read. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - Parallel Secrets

Parallel Secrets 

ML Barrs 

September 2023 

After a young girl goes missing, former TV crime reporter Vicky Robeson joins the search with the help of her attractive new love interest. They take his RV to a tiny town in rural Missouri that's filled with odd characters and darker secrets. 

But Vicky has secrets of her own. She believes this kidnapped girl may be linked to a case she reported on nine years ago, when a mystery child was found walking on levee, bloody and unable to speak. Back then, Vicky failed to follow up clues only she knew. Now, she has a chance to redeem herself.

As she uncovers secrets, it becomes clear someone will kill to keep them hidden. 

Between The Pages 

A great mystery, suspense story filled with tension, action, emotion, and twists and turns. The character development is well done for the cast as well as the lead, Vicky, who holds the spotlight on her own. You’ll want to keep reading to find out what happens next as the clues build and Vicky’s life is threatened. The plot is intense, and the ending leaves the reader believing there will be a sequel to answer questions about the future of some characters. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - Back in Time with Jelly Beans

Back in Time with Jelly Beans 

Michelle Godard-Richer 

June 2023 

Fueled by curiosity, and her dream of becoming a big-time journalist, Bella Thomas digs deep into the history of her small town. Mayflower thrived until the local Jelly Bean factory burned to the ground in 1927, killing handsome founder, Henry Hinchcliffe, and devastating the economy. 

In a twist of fate, instead of Bella finding the past, she's snatched out of the present and transported to the factory a year before the fire. There she is rescued by the sweet and swoon-worthy Henry. 

Bella can’t stop herself from falling for him even though he’s destined to marry another and suffer a tragic fate. Without any regard for her own happiness, Bella is determined to prevent the fire and save Henry. Even if he can never be hers. 

Between The Pages 

This time travel story was well crafted with an interesting plot and characters. The storyline contains a good tale of intrigue. How will Bella return home, can she save Henry, and who is the mysterious woman in the photo? Bella and Henry are a sweet and fun couple. The historical setting was written with good visuals. This author has a talented voice for weaving a light mystery into romance. There is a surprising twist at the end, hinting at the possibility of another book, which I look forward to reading. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - Candy, Cigarettes, and Murder

Candy, Cigarettes, and Murder 

Brenda Whiteside and Joyce Proell 

March 2023 

It’s a birthday weekend with the gift of murder. 

Recently widowed, Emma Banefield looks forward to a getaway birthday weekend with her free-wheeling sister, Nicole Earp, sipping chocolate martinis at the peaceful, historic Dulce Inn. When a rude stranger, a nasty food critic, and a madhouse of temperamental artists greet them, all hope for a tranquil weekend evaporates faster than dew on a hot desert morning. 

Overlooking the riotous atmosphere is doubly hard after Em discovers the body of a hotel guest, and a second murder affects Nic personally. Now, entrenched in a caper that pits them against a surly detective, they cozy up to a hotel staff hiding dangerous secrets to uncover clues to the killer. 

Using their smarts and love of all-things mystery, will the Chocolate Martini Sisters solve the crime ahead of the obstinate chief detective or find themselves trapped in the middle of a third murder? 

Between The Pages 

This is the first book in the Chocolate Martini Sisters Mysteries and was an enjoyable read. The lead characters are two sisters looking for a relaxing birthday getaway. The authors share a little background information on Emma and Nic, but the focus is on solving two murders and a poisoning. The story is fast-paced with no sagging parts, so it can be read in a day. There is a large secondary cast, but the authors did such a good job with character development that you know who everyone is. The who-done-it aspect is well-written and keeps you guessing and changing your mind each time the sisters discover another clue. This book would fit perfectly in Hallmark's cozy mysteries line-up. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Soft Place To Fall

A Soft Place To Fall 

Liz Flaherty 

December 2022 

Early McGrath doesn't want freedom from her thirty-year marriage to Nash, but when it's forced upon her, she does the only thing she knows to do - she goes home to the Ridge to reinvent herself. 

Only what is someone who's spent her life taking care of other people supposed to do when no one needs her anymore? Even as the threads of her life unravel, she finds new ones - reconnecting with the church of her childhood, building the quilt shop that has been a long-time dream, and forging a new friendship with her former husband. 

The definition of freedom changes when it's combined with faith, and through it all perhaps Early and Nash can find a Soft Place to Fall. 

Between The Pages 

A good punch of family drama and emotion fuels the pages of this second-chance romance. Early is a strong female lead. She takes care of her family even through the roughest times. She cares for her father-in-law, and even though her relationship with her mother is rocky, Early takes her into her home as well. Both Early and Nash are two lost souls who are bonded by family and watching them rediscover their love was an emotional ride. The plot is engaging and contains a few twists. This is a feel-good story filled with faith, hope, rekindled love, and a never-ending family bond. 

Rating

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - Four Aces

Four Aces 

A.K. Holthaus 

February 2023 

U.S. Marshal Jameson "Jake" Reid has been searching for the notorious outlaw, Harmon Elwood for nearly a year after he robbed the Midtown Lincoln Stage. From horse raids to train rides, every clue to finding Elwood has led Jake to the small mining town of Deadwood. Upon his arrival, he is immediately met with resistance and suspicion and no further at catching the elusive Elwood. 

Newly widowed Emily Taylor is doing everything she can to save her farm. Deep in debt, and unable to tend the farm on her own, she is forced to hire a farmhand. Little does she know that the man who answered her ad is really an undercover marshal. When he begins to stir up trouble and the truth comes out, her way of life is threatened as well as her heart. Emily struggles to choose between living the life she had fought for or losing everything she has. 

As Jake and Emily become close, Jake finds himself surrounded by conspiracy, blackmail, and a town full of secrets. Can he solve the mystery looming over this town and finally bring Harmon Elwood to justice or will his heart and senses get tangled in a web of lies? 

Between The Pages 

Grab this book if you’re looking for a lazy weekend read. It’s nice to read a book that isn’t bogged down with a long-drawn-out story. The historical western sends you into the wild west of gunslingers. The author weaved a good plot with a few twists that keep you turning the pages until the end. An enjoyable cast of good and bad guys, which ups the excitement of a few bullets flying in the air. The chemistry between Emily and Jake is strong and their romance propels at a good pace. This is my first read by this author and because the ending hints at another book in the Deadwood Diaries, I look forward to reading more. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - Take A Chance On Me

Take A Chance On Me 

Jana Richards 

November 2018

Darcy fell in love at first sight. And then she discovered Nick's plans for the Victorian mansion... 

Teacher Darcy Ferris loves travel almost as much as she loves her Toronto neighborhood. But no matter how far she roams, she always returns to the genteelly shabby Victorian mansion where she grew up, the last place her father lived. Darcy’s world is turned upside-down when the Victorian is slated for demolition. 

Since the death of architect Nick Cummings’ mother, his father has retreated from his real estate development business, and from life. In a desperate attempt to interest him in something once more, Nick buys a beat-up Victorian mansion and draws up plans to replace it with a Victorian-inspired condo. He hopes his father’s old spark will return if he helps him build the new condo. But he doesn’t expect such opposition from his new tenant, Darcy Ferris. Nor does he expect to fall in love with her. 

Nick and Darcy must come to terms with the past before they can forge a future together. And they’ll need to take the biggest chance of all – on love.

Between The Pages 

This story is packed with emotion. The characters are well-developed and interesting. Both Darcy and Nick have complications within their families. Darcy’s relationship with her mother is strained and the author pulls you into their history filled with drama and disappointment. Nick changes his professional life for his father and it’s enjoyable to read about their relationship building. And speaking of buildings, the authors provided a good visual of the Victorian mansions. The plot is solid, and a little pug named Stanley shines as the star.

Rating

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - Home To River’s Edge

Home To River’s Edge 

Nan Reinhardt 

April 2023 

She’s determined to start a new chapter, so why is she still drawn to a man from her past?

When Jasmine Weaver, the chief of staff to a powerful D.C. congresswoman, chose integrity, she didn’t anticipate ringing in the New Year disgraced, unemployed, and sleeping in her childhood bedroom. Now back in River’s Edge, Indiana, identical triplet Jazz has her sisters’ support while she plans her next steps. She agrees to lead the committee for their high school’s fifteenth reunion, never dreaming that her co-chair is the man who broke her teenage heart. 

As the new CEO of Walker Construction, Elias Walker has taken the family business to new levels of success. He’s buried himself in work to ease the grief of losing his fiancé several years earlier and wants nothing more than to be a carpenter again. Elias grudgingly agrees to co-chair the high school’s reunion committee, but when Jazz Weaver blows into town, suddenly anything seems possible. 

These high school sweethearts have lived half their lives apart. Can they reinvent themselves back in the town where it all began? 

Between The Pages 

A new author and town to discover, and a beautiful cover. This story is about second chances. Jasmine and Elias were high school sweethearts who help each other heal. While I found Jasmine easily forgave Elias for breaking her heart, their rediscovered friendship and romance were sweet and entertaining. They make each other stronger with Jasmine wondering about her future and Elias overcoming grief. The Weaver Sister series comes with an interesting and fun cast. This well-written story introduced me to a writer whose storytelling I enjoyed as well as the town of River’s Edge, Indiana. I look forward to reading book two in the series which I assume will be about one of the other Weaver triplets, Jo or Jennifer. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars