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Lindsay (1693 KP) rated Anchor in the Storm (Waves of Freedom, #2) in Books
Aug 30, 2018 (Updated Apr 9, 2019)
Anchor in the Storm is sweet and lovely read. I felt like I was in the story and I felt bad for Lillian and Arch. What will they endure together?
Sarah Sundin put you through the emotions with all her stories, but this one had me with my emotions after a chapter. Lillian finds out her brother is missing after an attack on his Navy ship "Atwood".
Are you a fan of Historical Fiction or do you enjoy reading about World War Two? This book has that feel to it. I enjoy learning about how we got into World War 2.
Lillian wants to be a druggist and a female one at that. In an era that is still new to the world with female having jobs. We are at the beginning of World War Two. The story starts out December 7, 1942, or around that time.
Arch is on leave time from the Navy. He has to deal with his troubles. Will they find love together and find out they need to open up and trust god first.
Arch seems to annoy Lillian and Lillian needs to prove herself. When they get to Boston something is up with her new job. They're a lot of perceptions for sedatives. Could there be a drug ring? Arch is dealing with it though the Navy's end for he sees it going on with his men. Is there a romance in the air?
Sarah Sundin put you through the emotions with all her stories, but this one had me with my emotions after a chapter. Lillian finds out her brother is missing after an attack on his Navy ship "Atwood".
Are you a fan of Historical Fiction or do you enjoy reading about World War Two? This book has that feel to it. I enjoy learning about how we got into World War 2.
Lillian wants to be a druggist and a female one at that. In an era that is still new to the world with female having jobs. We are at the beginning of World War Two. The story starts out December 7, 1942, or around that time.
Arch is on leave time from the Navy. He has to deal with his troubles. Will they find love together and find out they need to open up and trust god first.
Arch seems to annoy Lillian and Lillian needs to prove herself. When they get to Boston something is up with her new job. They're a lot of perceptions for sedatives. Could there be a drug ring? Arch is dealing with it though the Navy's end for he sees it going on with his men. Is there a romance in the air?
The Chocolate Lady (94 KP) rated Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk in Books
Oct 5, 2020
According to Publisher's Weekly, to develop the character of Lillian Boxfish, Kathleen Rooney took inspiration from real-life poet and Macy's ad-writer Margaret Fishback, who gained fame for her clever ads and humorous poetry in the 1930s. Read my review of this delightful book of fiction that brings an essentially unknown woman into the limelight at last.
https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2017/04/08/a-life-in-steps/
https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2017/04/08/a-life-in-steps/
TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated Trapped in Books
Feb 24, 2021
This was my first time reading a book by Lillian Duncan, which I am surprised at since she writes mystery/suspense and that is one of my go to genre’s. I really enjoyed this book though! I would definitely say that it can be read as a standalone book. This book starts and captures your attention almost immediately. The book takes some unexpected turns quite early in the book, it was from a different perspective then I have read before. I loved how throughout the book God was the central focus without being forceful.
I think that at some points it was a bit wordy, however, I kind of liked the wordiness. It fit the situations very well. I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars for telling a kidnapping story from a different perspective, the relatable characters, and for how Lillian Duncan was able to intertwine God in every aspect of the book. I recommend this book to anyone who likes edge of you seat reads with strong characters and a mystery/thriller that leaves you thinking even after the book is over.
I think that at some points it was a bit wordy, however, I kind of liked the wordiness. It fit the situations very well. I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars for telling a kidnapping story from a different perspective, the relatable characters, and for how Lillian Duncan was able to intertwine God in every aspect of the book. I recommend this book to anyone who likes edge of you seat reads with strong characters and a mystery/thriller that leaves you thinking even after the book is over.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2072 KP) rated Dangerous to Know (Lillian Frost & Edith Head #2) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
In December 1938, an FBI investigation into the smuggling activities of Albert Chaperau has reached the doors of Paramount, where Edith Head is the head of costumes. Since Lillian Frost was at the dinner party where Albert was exposed, she finds herself involved in attempts to head off the investigation. Meanwhile, Lillian is also looking into the disappearance of Jens Lahse. No one has seen him for a week. Where could he have gone?
This book plunges us into the world of old Hollywood, and doesn’t let us out. Real and fictional blend seamlessly on the page, all of them coming to wonderful life. The book takes time to lay the foundation of both stories and introduce the characters, but once that happens, it is off and running and hard to put down. Add in a touch of Christmas, and you have a very charming book.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2017/07/book-review-dangerous-to-know-by-renee.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
This book plunges us into the world of old Hollywood, and doesn’t let us out. Real and fictional blend seamlessly on the page, all of them coming to wonderful life. The book takes time to lay the foundation of both stories and introduce the characters, but once that happens, it is off and running and hard to put down. Add in a touch of Christmas, and you have a very charming book.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2017/07/book-review-dangerous-to-know-by-renee.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2072 KP) rated Idle Gossip in Books
Apr 14, 2022
Can Lillian and Edith Find the Deadly Truth in Some Gossip?
Lillian Frost and Edith Head have been summoned to the office of famed gossip columnist Lorna Whitcomb. Her “leg man,” someone who goes out and gathers the gossip for her column, is the police’s prime suspect in the death of Glenn Hoyle, one of his sources. But Sam Simcoe says he is innocent and only found Glenn’s body. Lorna all but blackmails Lillian and Edith into helping clear Sam’s name of the crime. The pair intend to do as little as possible, focusing on the names on a list found in Glenn’s trashcan. Does one of those names hold the key to unraveling the murder?
As always, this was a great trip back in time to the Hollywood of 1940. Real people and fictional characters rub elbows on these pages. I suspect that a few more of the characters might be real people I just didn’t recognize, but I don’t mind since it helps keep the line between real and fictional blurry. And they are all great characters that kept me engaged. The plot is strong, with several revelations before we reach a surprising yet perfectly logical climax. If you enjoy old Hollywood, this series is a must read, but anyone who appreciates a great mystery will be glad they picked it up.
As always, this was a great trip back in time to the Hollywood of 1940. Real people and fictional characters rub elbows on these pages. I suspect that a few more of the characters might be real people I just didn’t recognize, but I don’t mind since it helps keep the line between real and fictional blurry. And they are all great characters that kept me engaged. The plot is strong, with several revelations before we reach a surprising yet perfectly logical climax. If you enjoy old Hollywood, this series is a must read, but anyone who appreciates a great mystery will be glad they picked it up.
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated Anchor in the Storm (Waves of Freedom, #2) in Books
Jan 2, 2019
Nothing can stand in Lillian Avery's way. But after the pain of the past, will she ever be able to open her heart to love again?
"When I decide to do something, I do it."
Anchor in the Storm
Page 209
About the Book
When Lillian Avery accepts a job as a pharmacist in Boston, she does not know the danger she will soon be facing. Lillian has worked hard to be independent so she does not have to rely on anything or anyone. Putting her trust in her own strength. Arch Vandenberg, a junior officer in the US Navy, a high-society man, is trying to keep from being the man he used to be, while attempting to secure his Naval career. Used to closing off her heart for self protection, will Arch be able to earn Lillian's trust? Lillian has noticed unusual prescriptions passing through the drugstore where she works. Could they be linked to the groggy, drunk-like, sailors aboard Arch's ship? Will they be able to find the connection before it's too late? How far can they push the limits before they are caught? Lillian and Arch both learn that they must lean on God. And come to their own understanding that He provides strength in their weaknesses.
"His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay."
My Hope is Built
Edward Mote & William Bradbury
My Thoughts
Sarah Sundin has done it again! Anchor in the Storm has hit my top reads list of 2016 without question! From the gorgeous cover to the heartfelt acknowledgements(Oh! And a sneak peek at the third book), this book had me spellbound! I could not get this book out of my head (still can't)! Every plot twist every clue burrowed deep into my mind and took root. Thus, leading to multiple nights of reading long past the time I should have been asleep. I also LOVE long books, because it allows me more time with the characters that I have grown to love. At 393 pages this is one of the longer books in my collection, but it is worth every page. Please keep in mind that this is a WWII setting, and there are a few grisly details, but not an overwhelming amount. It is heartbreaking to learn about the methods in which PTSD was dealt with during this time. I am thankful that the medical field has progressed in this area. After getting acquainted with Arch and Lillian in Through Waters Deep, I was excited to read their story. And Sarah Sundin blew my expectations out of the water. I love how Sarah incorporates faith and scripture. Very encouraging and applicable to our lives. Even though my life does not mirror Lillian or Arch's fears and struggles, the truth that we need to lean on God to be our anchor in the storm rings true. And that God can create something beautiful in spite of horrible circumstances. Lillian's determination was very encouraging. She let nothing stop her (which is even more significant when you meet her). They have both been hurt in the past which makes it extremely difficult to open up to each other and others. But when that moment finally comes, it is beautiful! While the main characters in this book are different than in the first, I would not recommend reading these out of order. First of all, you would be cheating yourself out of an absolutely brilliant book in Through Waters Deep. Secondly, there are characters that reappear within the pages of this book, and in order to better understand them, you need to read the books in order.
My Rating
★★★★★ - You have bewitched me, body and soul.
I received a free copy of Anchor in the Storm from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
"When I decide to do something, I do it."
Anchor in the Storm
Page 209
About the Book
When Lillian Avery accepts a job as a pharmacist in Boston, she does not know the danger she will soon be facing. Lillian has worked hard to be independent so she does not have to rely on anything or anyone. Putting her trust in her own strength. Arch Vandenberg, a junior officer in the US Navy, a high-society man, is trying to keep from being the man he used to be, while attempting to secure his Naval career. Used to closing off her heart for self protection, will Arch be able to earn Lillian's trust? Lillian has noticed unusual prescriptions passing through the drugstore where she works. Could they be linked to the groggy, drunk-like, sailors aboard Arch's ship? Will they be able to find the connection before it's too late? How far can they push the limits before they are caught? Lillian and Arch both learn that they must lean on God. And come to their own understanding that He provides strength in their weaknesses.
"His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay."
My Hope is Built
Edward Mote & William Bradbury
My Thoughts
Sarah Sundin has done it again! Anchor in the Storm has hit my top reads list of 2016 without question! From the gorgeous cover to the heartfelt acknowledgements(Oh! And a sneak peek at the third book), this book had me spellbound! I could not get this book out of my head (still can't)! Every plot twist every clue burrowed deep into my mind and took root. Thus, leading to multiple nights of reading long past the time I should have been asleep. I also LOVE long books, because it allows me more time with the characters that I have grown to love. At 393 pages this is one of the longer books in my collection, but it is worth every page. Please keep in mind that this is a WWII setting, and there are a few grisly details, but not an overwhelming amount. It is heartbreaking to learn about the methods in which PTSD was dealt with during this time. I am thankful that the medical field has progressed in this area. After getting acquainted with Arch and Lillian in Through Waters Deep, I was excited to read their story. And Sarah Sundin blew my expectations out of the water. I love how Sarah incorporates faith and scripture. Very encouraging and applicable to our lives. Even though my life does not mirror Lillian or Arch's fears and struggles, the truth that we need to lean on God to be our anchor in the storm rings true. And that God can create something beautiful in spite of horrible circumstances. Lillian's determination was very encouraging. She let nothing stop her (which is even more significant when you meet her). They have both been hurt in the past which makes it extremely difficult to open up to each other and others. But when that moment finally comes, it is beautiful! While the main characters in this book are different than in the first, I would not recommend reading these out of order. First of all, you would be cheating yourself out of an absolutely brilliant book in Through Waters Deep. Secondly, there are characters that reappear within the pages of this book, and in order to better understand them, you need to read the books in order.
My Rating
★★★★★ - You have bewitched me, body and soul.
I received a free copy of Anchor in the Storm from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2072 KP) rated The Sharpest Needle in Books
Feb 3, 2021
Blackmailing a Star
It’s August 1939, and silent film actress Marion Davies has been receiving poison pen letters from someone calling himself Argus. The letters threaten to reveal something from Marion’s past, something that could ruin her current relationship with William Randolph Hurst. When she turns to Lillian Frost and Edith Head for help, Edith can’t help but think there is more to the situation than there first appears to be. Then a dead body turns up. Can Lillian and Edith figure out what is going on?
There is so much to praise in this book. The plot is strong and always keeps us engaged. It does get a little convoluted as we reach the climax, but as long as you pay attention, you’ll follow what is happening. Real people and fictional characters rub elbows seamlessly, and they all appear fully formed to us. I love watching for cameos. The news of the day impacts the character, and therefore us. Yet we also have talk about the films coming out during that time, which I enjoyed. This is more than a Hollywood mystery. If you enjoy historical mysteries, you need to read these books today.
There is so much to praise in this book. The plot is strong and always keeps us engaged. It does get a little convoluted as we reach the climax, but as long as you pay attention, you’ll follow what is happening. Real people and fictional characters rub elbows seamlessly, and they all appear fully formed to us. I love watching for cameos. The news of the day impacts the character, and therefore us. Yet we also have talk about the films coming out during that time, which I enjoyed. This is more than a Hollywood mystery. If you enjoy historical mysteries, you need to read these books today.
Leanne Crabtree (480 KP) rated Ivory Guard (The Guard Duet, #1) in Books
Jan 11, 2021
4.5 stars.
I've been Natalie's plot tester/beta reader with this, as well as it's proof reader, from early on and I really enjoyed it, now I've finally gotten to read it's ending.
The thing with Natalie is she always come up with something original. This is the first time I've read a book, or even heard of a book, about a team of half angels/half humans who are trained by angels to takeout demons. The same could be said about her Patroness series; once again, I've never read anything like it. That's what I like about her books: they're different.
I don't want to give too much away but this is a story of good (angels) versus evil (demons) to put it simply. The struggle of eighteen year old Lillian as she realises her life is about to change whether she wants it to or not and her journey from bookworm to fearless leader with the help of her Ivory Guard and Raz, the angel of secrets.
I really enjoyed it, like I did her Patroness series and I'm looking forward to reading the second book in the series, Ebony Fight, to see how everything works out for her and her team.
I've been Natalie's plot tester/beta reader with this, as well as it's proof reader, from early on and I really enjoyed it, now I've finally gotten to read it's ending.
The thing with Natalie is she always come up with something original. This is the first time I've read a book, or even heard of a book, about a team of half angels/half humans who are trained by angels to takeout demons. The same could be said about her Patroness series; once again, I've never read anything like it. That's what I like about her books: they're different.
I don't want to give too much away but this is a story of good (angels) versus evil (demons) to put it simply. The struggle of eighteen year old Lillian as she realises her life is about to change whether she wants it to or not and her journey from bookworm to fearless leader with the help of her Ivory Guard and Raz, the angel of secrets.
I really enjoyed it, like I did her Patroness series and I'm looking forward to reading the second book in the series, Ebony Fight, to see how everything works out for her and her team.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2072 KP) rated Design for Dying (Lillian Frost & Edith Head, #1) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
When Lillian Frost learns that her former roommate, Ruby, has been murdered, she is shocked. Then she recognizes what Ruby was wearing as a costume from a movie, which brings her into contact with famed costume designer Edith Head. Together, the two discover clues that could lead to Ruby’s killer. But can they piece it all together?
This book takes us back to 1937 Hollywood, and it is all fun. Real and fictional character rub elbows, and I loved it. Everyone came fully alive for me in these pages, as did the time and place (once I remembered just how much things would have changed in that time.) The mystery with strong with a couple of good twists. I love how the clues came together for the fun climax.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2017/03/book-review-design-for-dying-by-renee.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
This book takes us back to 1937 Hollywood, and it is all fun. Real and fictional character rub elbows, and I loved it. Everyone came fully alive for me in these pages, as did the time and place (once I remembered just how much things would have changed in that time.) The mystery with strong with a couple of good twists. I love how the clues came together for the fun climax.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2017/03/book-review-design-for-dying-by-renee.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Christine A. (965 KP) rated Truth and Lies (DI Amy Winter, #1) in Books
Dec 9, 2018
Quick Read (1 more)
Didn't want to put it down
Book #1 in Caroline Winter’s DI Amy Winter’s series
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book so I could give an honest review.
“Truth and Lies” captured my attention from the very beginning. I frequently read mysteries and suspense books and, while I enjoy them, am not usually surprised by them. This novel included twists and turns that kept me hanging on every page. After I sat down to read it, my eyes starting hurt from reading the first 16 chapters without taking a break!
While dealing with the death of her father, a fellow police officer, DI Amy Winter receives a letter from Lillian Grimes, one half of a notorious serial killing team, her father’s most famous case. Grimes said she is Amy’s biological mother and would reveal the location of her victims were if Amy follows Grimes’s demands. Amy’s world is turned upside down trying to deal with her father’s death, Grimes’s allegations, and the kidnapping of a young girl. The incidents seem to be related, but can Amy trust herself to handle everything with everything that’s happening?
It was refreshing to have such a fully rounded, well developed, strong female character who is portrayed as a police officer and human and have the two so mingled together. “Truth and Lies” is the first in Caroline Winter’s DI Amy Winter’s series.
“Truth and Lies” captured my attention from the very beginning. I frequently read mysteries and suspense books and, while I enjoy them, am not usually surprised by them. This novel included twists and turns that kept me hanging on every page. After I sat down to read it, my eyes starting hurt from reading the first 16 chapters without taking a break!
While dealing with the death of her father, a fellow police officer, DI Amy Winter receives a letter from Lillian Grimes, one half of a notorious serial killing team, her father’s most famous case. Grimes said she is Amy’s biological mother and would reveal the location of her victims were if Amy follows Grimes’s demands. Amy’s world is turned upside down trying to deal with her father’s death, Grimes’s allegations, and the kidnapping of a young girl. The incidents seem to be related, but can Amy trust herself to handle everything with everything that’s happening?
It was refreshing to have such a fully rounded, well developed, strong female character who is portrayed as a police officer and human and have the two so mingled together. “Truth and Lies” is the first in Caroline Winter’s DI Amy Winter’s series.