Karen Malley

This intricate tale highlights the importance of pleasing God first, something that Beth Tarrington doesn't understand. She's been doing her best to be a good daughter. It is her coworker, Jan, who sows the seeds of doubt into Beth's perfect life. First about Beth's fiancé, who wants more than Beth is willing to give until the wedding. Then Jan clues Beth in about the realities of life for most folks who don't have rich parents giving them a condo, a phone, and a car. When Beth toys with the idea of trying out for a local theater production, Jan tells her to go for it. Beth begins to understand how privileged she is, but also how trapped by her parents' expectations. She meets Jason, first as a magician at a birthday party, then as the main character in the theater production. He knows she's engaged, but he finds it difficult to deny how he feels about her. She knows he would never fit into her parents' social circle.

There are some wonderful secondary characters and then there's the play which parallels Beth's life. Such a clever addition to this book. I enjoyed every minute of it.… (más)

Imagine being a twin and sensing your sister requires your assistance, Sunflowers and Suspicions explore this topic and the path towards finding God. Julie and Jade are twin sisters. Jade desires a career as an actress and believes she does not deserve God’s love or mercy. Julie discovers her sister disappeared and sets out to find her.

Matt, Jade’s neighbor works to help Julie find Jade. His own family works to recover from a tragedy of their own. Julie reaches out and helps Matt’s mother heal from a mistake. I loved seeing Julie interact with Matt, Heather, and their siblings. Julie possesses the gift of empathy and understanding.

The two recognize a man who offered Jade a job deserves their attention. Sometimes people need a safe place without the distraction of technology and the modern world interfering. Such a place shows up in this story. The author created an amazing world and characters with depth that drew me into the story. I have to say, I read this book in one sitting. I could not put it down.

So if you enjoy a story with suspense and amazing characters, you should check out this book for yourself. Sometimes the path to finding salvation takes turns and twists, but ultimately, God’s people return to Him.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but it in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.… (más)

This book is a sweet story with romance and suspense both put together with just enough faith mixed in to entertain readers. It was easy to follow along as the characters were fun to get to know. I liked that it featured twins that may look identical but completely different in everything else.

Julie is the grounded twin who loves God and has a job working in a crisis pregnancy center. Jade on the other hand is flighty and has this big dream to be an actress. They both had a good childhood but one deals with insecurity and the other hides a deep secret that is destroying her life. It is funny how they may seem different but they both are dealing with insecurity and acceptance.

When Julie hasn’t heard from her sister in awhile she starts to get suspicious and takes off to New York to see if she can find her. When Matt enters the picture as Jade’s neighbor they team up to try to find out where Jade has disappeared to. I enjoyed getting to see how the two developed a friendship. As they start to get to know each other better there are sparks between them. Julie has it in her head that Matt and Jade have been dating so she has no chance with Matt. Matt is so kind and patient with Julie and his faith is strong as he prays for guidance.

The mystery is quite intriguing and I loved how the author surprised me of where Jade has been. I would never have thought of this plot and I think it was kind of nice that in the end the man involved just wanted his family happy and to live in a safe environment. I may have lost you with this information but trust me it is well worth finding out yourself about this mysterious place where Jade is found.

There are a few delicate subjects in the story but the author does a good job of showing how God forgives us and leads us to a place of healing. One important part of the story deals with Matt’s family. His mother is punishing herself for something she did and has shut out the entire family. Reading how her healing takes place is very emotional and is an example of how important it is to communicate with others.

Jade comes to a point where she knows she needs to change her life. Be ready for tissues when you read how her transformation comes. Filled with great counsel and compassion she is lead to … well you must read this part for yourself.

This is a story that has many lessons from forgiveness, healing, a new beginning, and trust . The message is clear that no matter what mistakes we may make God is there to wipe your tears and lead you to His unconditional love and forgiveness.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.… (más)