Monday, December 31, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Short-Order Sheriff (River's End Ranch Book 1) by Kristen Osbourne





















 Discover River's End Ranch, a gorgeous "destination ranch and resort" in Riston, Idaho, that is run by the six Weston siblings and their well-meaning, semi-retired parents. Five bestselling Western romance authors have created a world like no other--full of fun outside activities, a huge family in need of love, and side characters you will never forget. A world where our characters learn, laugh, and love

Kelsi Weston, the youngest of six siblings, loves life. She has a job she adores, is surrounded by people she loves, and gets to work with people she cares about. If only she could keep cooks in the café she manages, life would be perfect. When her long-time boyfriend announces he’s leaving town for a new job on the same day her cook leaves with no notice, she does what she always does. She handles it.
Sheriff Shane Clapper has loved Kelsi for years, going to her café for lunch every day simply so he can see her. When he hears she’s broken up with her boyfriend, he immediately goes to the café to make his move. Why let grass grow under his feet? He knows what he wants, and he plans to get it! Will the sheriff be able to convince Kelsi she would be happier with him? Or will she give into her mother’s demands to date the man picked out for her?   AMAZON 3 STARS

Although it was a cute town with a quirky, likable main character in Kelsi...this story just didn't do it for me.  I liked it but not at a high level of pleasure.  The town was interesting, Shane's long time love interest for Kelsi was a nice touch as was her twin sister and other family members.  It just wasn't enough to be memorable for me or to want to read any further about the rest of the family. It just seemed to lack real depth.
One thing it had going for it was that it did have a H.E.A. 
Short-Order Sheriff (River's End Ranch Book 1) by [Osbourne, Kirsten, Ranch, River's End]

Sunday, December 30, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Why not Tonight? (Happily Inc Book 3) by Susan Mallery












 Why Not Tonight (Happily Inc Book 3) by [Mallery, Susan]







 Natalie Kaleta will do anything for the artists at her gallery, including risk life, limb and the effect of humidity on her naturally curly hair. Braving a downpour to check on reclusive Ronan Mitchell, Natalie gets stranded by a mudslide at his mountain home, where the brooding glass artist reveals his playful side, sending her inconvenient crush from under-the-radar to over-the-top.

After a secret tore apart his family and made him question his sense of self, Ronan fled his hometown for Happily Inc, but the sunny small town can’t fix his damaged heart. He won’t give in to his attraction for beautiful, perpetually cheerful Natalie. She’s untouched by darkness—or so he thinks.

Natalie knows that when a heart goes through the flame, it comes out stronger. Life may not be a fairy tale, but sometimes dreams do come true. Why not this one? Why not tonight?
AMAZON   3 STARS

It turns out that this was a good story idea that was just okay.  It had some good points like good characters and a got your back kind of town.  Similar in some ways to the town of Fool's Gold which I had read quite a few of those books.  It is different in that it isn't as much into Festivals as it is a Wedding town.  The town just kind of pulled most people to them and welcomed them into family.  Natalie was fun, quirky and honest to a fault.  Oh, she didn't say things to hurt people but there sure were some interesting things that came out of her mouth. Sometimes it made it kind of hard for people to keep up with her.  Even those who knew her and loved her. 
Ronan is in the  middle of a identity crisis meltdown of sorts.  And he is super hurt and angry about the lies about who he is.  One thing he is certain of is that he wants NOTHING to do with becoming like his talented but selfish father.  
Although I kind of enjoyed the story I can't say that it was a favorite for me. 


Saturday, December 29, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- The Parent Pact (Return to Redemption, Book 3) by Laurie Kellogg

The Parent Pact (Return to Redemption, Book 3) - Kindle ... Cinderella and Prince Charming never had to consider the welfare of their children

When widower Tyler Fitzpatrick meets Annie Barnes at his daughter’s school, his libido goes tilt. The sexy single mother is everything he and his grieving little girl need. Unfortunately, Annie flatly refuses his dinner invitation. She wants a husband and a father for her son—not just a boyfriend. And the last time she checked, wealthy, summa-cum-laude lawyers didn’t marry high-school-drop-out housekeepers.

Tyler concedes there’s a vast difference between their experiences and lifestyles. Still, he’s inexplicably drawn to the impoverished young woman—even though her little boy reminds Tyler of an underprivileged past he’d rather forget. While becoming better acquainted, he offers Annie a job caring for his daughter and home in Redemption, PA. He also proposes a Parent Pact—an agreement to become role models to each other’s child and to fill one another’s needs as single parents while they continue to search for true love.

Accepting Tyler’s offer would solve a lot of Annie’s problems. However, surrendering to her weak-in-the-knees attraction to the irresistible widower could very well leave her and her son heartbroken. Yet, when circumstances threaten her ability to feed her child, Annie reluctantly agrees to the pact, making it clear she has no desire for Tyler to fill her so-called needs in bed. It’s a bald-faced lie, but she knows the man’s desperation to give his daughter the nurturing she needs will compel him to accept a purely platonic relationship.

Now, Annie’s only problem is resisting the overwhelming temptation to let sin-in-a-tailored-suit Tyler seduce her.   AMAZON   3.5 STARS

I liked it but with some reservations. It was kind of a mixed bag for me. The emotions were there although it seemed to repeat a theme or two quite a bit.   The story did start out strong but then kind of dogged down about half way through.  Part of that I think had to all the detailed wealth but it also showed the huge gap between the lifestyles of the two main characters.  There is hope for the rest of the book though because it finally does pick up and it also solves a mystery about Annie's father's death.  There is also a good Epilogue which I was glad to see. 
There was some humor in the story and I thought the cover was kind of cute too.
 Both Tyler and Annie were interesting characters as was their children, Mandy and Noah.  Two other people who added to the story was Tyler's long time friends, Luke and Ben.  Tyler's sister Sabrina also shows up in the book and adds a promising side story to the book.   It looks like she will have her own story in, "A Heart Decision (Return to Redemption, Book 5")



Friday, December 28, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Gianni: Azzarra Crime Family Book One by Annie Jacoby










Gianni: Azzarra Crime Family Book One by [Jocoby, Annie]















I must kill her...she knows too much...


Grace is my hostage. A beautiful, sweet hostage who makes my entire body light up, but my hostage nonetheless. Her crime? Being in the wrong place at the wrong time. She was kidnapped by Piero Ferrarro, who I had to hit due to his involvement in a plot against me. Grace knows that I'm behind Piero's murder, and if I let her go, it would spell disaster to my entire organization.

It's not fair, but I have to always look at my long-term survival, and Grace endangers that. So, I have to either keep her my hostage for the rest of her life, so that she cannot go to the authorities, or I have to kill her.

There's only one problem.

I'm in love with her.   AMAZON 4 STARS


It's a crime family book so you know going in that there is going to be deaths, murder, violence but there is also some interesting twists and people in the story too.  Quite a few twists as it turns out. There is also some major surprises as the book comes to it's conclusion. 
Grace goes through so much that you wonder if she is ever really going to catch a break.  But that also keeps you reading because you want to see her win but your just not sure how that is going to happen. The interactions between Grace and Gianni keep things interesting too.

Gianni is The Boss but there is a whole lot more to him that is first seen.  His twin sister Antonia is a tough customer maybe even tougher than Gianni.
I will say that this book is of course for Adult readers but I guess that probably goes without saying.  After all, the book blurb does warn you with it's description.

Thursday, December 27, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Message in a Bottle A Surf's Up Romance Novella by Beth Wiseman


 One man. Two women. A child desperate for medical treatment. How can Kyle choose between the woman he once loved and his current fiancée? Is there a solution that suits all involved, or will someone end up out of the triangle forever?

Morgan Calhoun and her parents are whisked away in the middle of the night, something Morgan always knew was a possibility because of her father's CIA job. But she'd always thought if such a scenario played out that she would have time to say goodbye to those she loved—particularly her boyfriend, Kyle. Adding to her unbearable situation, several weeks after the move, Morgan finds out that she's pregnant.

Kyle Brossmann doesn't even get a break-up letter from Morgan. She's just gone, along with her parents. His heart broken, Kyle continues with his plans. He graduates from high school and attends college, where he meets his fiancée, Lexie. But two men visit Kyle and encourage him to travel to an undisclosed location, where he will meet his five-year-old daughter. Rocked by the news that he has a child, Kyle learns he is the only person who might be able to save his daughter's life.

Will Kyle choose his first love and his daughter? Or will he stay with Lexie and live the life they’ve been planning?   AMAZON  4 STARS
 illness
This was an unusual story with a whole bucketful of emotion. It was well written with interesting people and plenty of danger and twists and turns.  The danger part mostly comes into play with the need to stay hidden from Morgan's father's enemies and also from the life threatening illness of Kyle's daughter.
Kyle has his life turned upside down with the surprise of learning he has a daughter and the secretive nature of getting to her.  

 I did enjoy the whole message in the bottle idea and how it played out in Kyle's life one last time.   

The book also has an unexpected but interesting ending as well.  I am glad that there is a look into the lives of everyone at a much later date.


Wednesday, December 26, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Accidental Agent (River's End Ranch #3) by Amelia C. Adams


Discover River's End Ranch, a gorgeous "destination ranch and resort" in Riston, Idaho, that is run by the six Weston siblings and their well-meaning, semi-retired parents. Five bestselling Western romance authors have created a world like no other--full of fun outside activities, a huge family in need of love, and side characters you will never forget. A world where our characters learn, laugh, and love.

Liz Colby is an aspiring author who works at Kelsey’s Kafé while waiting to make it big. When a handsome, mysterious customer comes in and orders a burger, she immediately begins wondering about him, thinking he’d be a great addition to her new novel.

FBI agent Jack Saunders had to get out of LA, so he just got in his car and started driving. When he ends up at a place called River’s End Ranch and goes into the diner, he overhears a suspicious conversation, and his instincts tell him there’s something about this cute blonde waitress that needs further investigation.

Two mysteries to be solved, and two lonely hearts looking for a home . . . just another day at Kelsey’s Kafé, where romance is always on the menu.   AMAZON  3 STARS

I really wanted to like this story more because it had what I felt was potential.  But for me it was so slow it really killed some of the enjoyment for me.  I know it takes time to establish people in a story and there were some sweet and sometimes humorous times. But by the time I was 43% in I was almost screaming for something to happen.  It took a little longer and some action did finally come into play.  It had to do with a case that Jack had been pursuing for a while. 
The story ends with a sweet H.E.A. for Jack and Liz.  

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Her Queen City Ranger: A Victorian Western Romance (Colorado City Series Book 1) by Emilee Harris

Her Queen City Ranger: A Victorian Western Romance (Colorado City Series Book 1) by [Harris, Emilee]

Introducing "Her Queen City Ranger"- a new Historical Western Romance by Emilee Harris.  Her Queen City Ranger” is a work of historical western romance fiction. It is a standalone romance set in Victorian era Colorado. A guaranteed HEA with no cliffhangers.


Circumstance has placed them at odds, can love lead them to common ground?


A woman on the run...
When Sofie Augustine is kidnapped from her father's estate in Prussia, she finds herself halfway across the world in the United States. Though she manages to escape her captors, she’s not out of danger. They’ve turned the tables and her only chance is to reach her father’s solicitor in Denver for protection.

She soon realizes, however, that she won’t make it alone. Stranded on the Eastern Colorado plains, the only person she can turn to is a man who believes the worst of her.

A man determined to do what's right...
Cleighton Palmer has spent his life trying to prove his worth in a world where good breeding is everything. As a Colorado Ranger, he’s taken an oath to uphold the law in his wild western state. When news of a murderer on the run comes over the wire, he’s not about to let that threat make it to his town.

But Sofie isn’t what he expected, and when she’s put in danger, he has to decide who’s side he’s on.

Sofie and Cleigh battle the elements, hired guns, and growing attraction as they make their way to Denver and put together a plan to clear her name.  AMAZON    3.5 STARS

I liked this story and enjoyed the main characters.  They sure did come from a huge difference when it came to backgrounds.  I also liked the woman Lucy who became like a second mother to Cleighton.  She was his lifelife since he was about seven years old.
I also liked the struggle between Sofie and Cleigh; the struggle to get to the truth of what is really going on.  Sofie has one wild story and he finds it hard to believe what she is telling him.  He does have a good way of measuring up people.  Hes usually pretty good at telling when people are telling the truth or not.  It's kind of a good thing that Sofie held a few things back because it would have made things even harder for him to believe.
There are a few surprises awaiting Cleight and Sofie as well as fighting to get their own H.E.A together.  Sofie's father loves her so dearly but in his determination to protect her almost ruins the whole thing.  He has a few secrets of his own too.  And seeing Lucy again stirs up a lot of memories that only they know about.   
I want to say in passing that I really don't understand the title for this book.  It's not a biggie but I just don't get it.  I must have missed something. 



Tuesday, December 4, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- The Mail-Order Bride Carries a Gun (Brides of Sweet Creek Ranch Book 1) by Wanda Ann Thomas

The Mail-Order Bride Carries a Gun (Brides of Sweet Creek Ranch Book 1) by [Thomas, Wanda Ann]
THE BRIDES OF SWEET CREEK RANCH is an uplifting Sweet Historical Western Romance series introducing the untamed Haven brothers. A cattleman, gunslinger, rodeo cowboy, cattle rustler, and gambler, the adopted brothers struggle to save the family’s frontier ranch. Only women with grit and courage would consider making a home in the remote wilds of Wyoming as well as give the safekeeping of their hearts to the Haven men. Come visit Sweet Creek Ranch and experience love, adventure, and happily ever after. 

The mail-order bride seeks justice. Not a husband…

ELLA HUNTER never thought she’d be a mail-order bride. But when she sees a photo in the Marriage Gazette of the man she believes killed her brother, Ella agrees to marry the Civil War soldier turned cowboy. Prepared to confront a cold-hearted killer then return home, she finds all her expectations dashed when her intended husband appears to be a good man. Ella’s loyalties are torn between honoring the memories of her family and her undeniable attraction to Ty Haven. 

TY HAVEN needs a wife. The ranch he runs in the wilds of Wyoming Territory could use a woman’s influence. Frankly, so could he. So when Ella arrives like a gift tied up in a cornflower-blue hair ribbon, more intelligent, practical, and, yes, beautiful, than he could have imagined, he hopes she will give him and the West a chance. Turns out, he doesn’t just need a wife. He needs Ella. But she has a secret, and it might destroy their marriage almost before it’s begun. 

Can the unforgivable be forgiven? What will the cowboy ranchman do when he learns why…THE MAIL-ORDER BRIDE CARRIES A GUN?   AMAZON  5 STARS

 I feel like I just ate a full, satisfying meal after reading this book. 
It had great main characters, both with their own emotional scars but putting one foot in front of the other.  The longer Ella was around Ty, the more attracted she became to him.  She also began hoping that there was more to the story of her brother's death and his saber.  As she watches him with his brother/second chance boys she sees a side to him that really makes her wonder.  One minute her mind is made up that she was leaving in the spring and the next, she wanted to stay.  
The emotional tug of war for both of them was so well done.
The other men and boys at the ranch added so much more to the story and  Seth is at least one of the boys struggling almost as much as Ella is.  
I just felt like the author did a really good job building the personalities, challenges and pasts for each one of the people in the story. I also want to credit the author with grabbing my attention right away with a really great title for this book. 

What was an unexpected surprise was when Boone, one of the "brothers" from the ranch shows up with more of his story included.  He is a gunslinger looking to get out of the game.  Things really hit the fan when one of his brothers signed him up for a mail order bride. Then things really go south after he marries Margaret Lily.  But not at first, you see Margaret has a few dangerous secrets of her own.  This is a really interesting story line that won't be finished in this book.  "Gunslingers Don't Die (Brides of Sweet Creek Ranch Book 2)" continues that story. 
I've got to be honest and say that I will be following that story soon.  
Overall I was really happy with how the book ended.  Well, except for that black-hearted wannabee land baron, Blackwell.  Can someone please do something about him WITHOUT getting hanged for it? 





Monday, December 3, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- JACK 11 by Stella Marie Alden


Just when I thought I had it made, I stepped in shit.
I overheard someone blackmail a senator, my wife got kidnapped, and now I'm accused of murder.
Are you f'cking kidding me?
Even if you didn't read book 1, you'll love Jack II. He and Blakely will take you on a rollercoaster ride that you won't soon forget. AMAZON 4 STARS


This was a fast moving story with a lot danger and action in it.  Also the two main characters Blakely and Jack are still wildly in love with each other and it shows.   Even after having appeared in the first book, they still were having "adventures."  It was danger of a different kind but still with the possibility of being lethal.  I think that it probably would be pretty easy to get into and understand even without having read the first book.  
If you didn't guess from the book blurb yes, there will be some rough language and hot married sex but there is a story there.  I felt like the sex scenes could have been scaled back a it.  But the story isn't sacrificed by being overtaken with only sex and language.  There is still some strong friends and allies in this book too.  Good thing, Jack and Blakely are going to need them.   There are some big egos, big dollars and several power plays going on.  All which make the book even more interesting.  Also a plot twist that I didn't see coming.
What a great cover on the book, right?

I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest opinion of it.  

BOOK REVIEW- Christmas with the Sheriff (Shadow Creek, Montana Book 1) by Victoria James

Christmas with the Sheriff (Shadow Creek, Montana Book 1) by [James, Victoria]
After fleeing her beloved small town five years ago, Julia Bailey is back to spend Christmas with her family. Returning is hard, but keeping the devastating secret about her late husband is even harder. Her place isn't in Big Sky Country any longer...but the more time she spends with the irresistible Sheriff who saved her once before, and his adorable little daughter, the more Julia starts wishing she could let go of the past and start a new life.
Single dad and county Sheriff Chase Donovan had been secretly in love with his best friend's wife for years. But after her traumatic loss he knew Julia needed to get away from Shadow Creek, even though helping her leave was the last thing he wanted to do. Now she's home and he doesn't intend to lose her a second time. Chase is going to prove to Julia just how good they can be together this Christmas...and forever.  AMAZON 3.5 STARS

This was a sweet story with really good main characters.  Main characters that had gone through a boat load of heartache too. So there was a bitter sweet element to the story too.  Maggie ( who is Chase's daughter)  added some sweet but spunky flavor to the story too.   She made me smile more than a time or two.  And what a great relationship she had with her father.  He wasn't perfect  especially when it came to girly things but he did try.

It was a great community of people too and some of the best people were Julia's ins-laws.  Her late husband, Michael's parents were the best and still loved her like another daughter. 

The patient love that Chase had for Julia was so well drawn, that it just made you want to see that rewarded.  Julia needed to stop running but I could see why she was. She was terrified to put her heart out there again.

I liked the ending but would have like to have the Epilogue added.  I see that you can get that Epilogue if you sign up for the author's newsletter.  I'm not a fan of doing things that way even though there is a bonus when you sign up with being able to read for free, "Sweet Surrender." 


Thursday, November 29, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Blackthorne's Bride: A Bitter Creek Novel by Joan Johnston

Blackthorne's Bride: A Bitter Creek Novel by [Johnston, Joan]
A rogue nobleman, a rescued lady, and revenge undone by romance all play a part in New York Times bestselling author Joan Johnston’s irresistible novel of best-laid plots, delicious deception, and unexpected passion.

Two years have passed since Josie Wentworth was bought from the Sioux for a gold watch and whisked back to England by Marcus Wharton, the Duke of Blackthorne. When Marcus breaks his promise to return Josie to America, she ends up as a maid in the home of his charming but neglected nephews. Once Josie’s long-lost family finds her, however, the suddenly wealthy heiress sets out to save the two boys from their indifferent uncle—and teach the duke a lesson in honor.

Learning that Marcus is seeking a rich American bride to save his estate, Josie plots to catch his eye—certain he’ll never recognize the beauty she’s become as the ragged captive he rescued. But Josie doesn’t wager on her marital charade taking a tender turn, as the nobleman she’s despised for years proves to be a very different man than she’s imagined. And there’s no denying his passionate caresses, as she falls deeper under the spell of a husband determined to claim her heart.  AMAZON 4 STARS

I really enjoyed this story.  It had great main characters along with some very interesting major misunderstandings.  Most of those were on Josie's part; leaving a very confused Marcus.  When they first met, their was a really brutal situation that he rescued her from.  Too bad she doesn't remember too much about what happened after.  And she's really mad about where she got dumped.  Until she meets both of his nephews, Spencer and Clay.  She ends up standing up for them every chance she can as they are mistreated. She becomes their protector and it just adds another bone for her to pick with Marcus. Those who boys have had to be kind of tougher to survive this household but somehow find a way to remain sweet too.  Spencer is the older brother who has protected Clay as much as he can but he's still a little boy too.  How could Marcus leave them at the mercy of this household and never check up on them?
There are plenty of mysteries that have to be unraveled to get to the truth of that.  
Marcus has been a man deep in grief over the death of his wife Fanny in child birth.  Not even his son lived either.  It was easy to see after a while why Josie was confused about who he really is.  Is he a caring, loving man or is he the thoughtless, neglectful man that facts seem to say he is?  A man with two totally different sides maybe?  It does get straightened out when ALL of the facts come out. 
Marcus has twin sisters and one of them Lark, has a bit of a side story in this book. she has had a crush on Seaton, who is the best friend of Marcus.  Yes, trouble follows those two but you'll have to read it to find out that happens.
It was kind of fun to realize as I was reading this book, I recognized some of the characters from other books that I read and they were about Josie's family.
Thing do come to a happy conclusion with a surprise or two at the end. Nice Epilogue.
Just wanted to add that I thought the eBook cover was really attractive too.  


Wednesday, November 28, 2018

Chris Tomlin - Adore (Live)

BOOK REVIEW- The Bachelor Prince by Debbie Macomber

The Bachelor Prince (Celebration 1000) by [Macomber, Debbie]
A man who happens to be a prince…
Prince Stefano Giorgio Paolo is the kind of man most women only dream of marrying. And now the very handsome—and very eligible—bachelor has arrived in America to search for a bride. Hope Jordan’s prince has finally come, but there’s no happy ending in sight. Her royal suitor needs a wealthy wife to save his country from ruin. And Hope has nothing to offer Stefano…except her heart. Hope is the first woman to make Stefano feel so deeply. But can he give up his kingdom for love? 

Originally published in 1994   AMAZON  3.5 stars


I liked it but it was just okay to me.  This was a fun but also emotional story with interesting people in the story.  Not only Stefano and Hope but also Stefano's right hand man, Pietro and the possible next princess, Priscilla.    The emotional turmoil was well done.  As was Priscilla's over bearing mother.  Hope's mother was kind of driven too but she was looking after Hope's happiness and Priscilla's mom was more about being important through her daughter.

I do have to say that I hesitated about getting this book when I saw that it was by Debbie Macomber.  I know people are going to hate this. But even though she is considered a #1 New York Times best selling author, her books don't always do it for me.  I found a couple of books by her that I liked but more that it was just, "meh" to me.  Will I still keep trying?  Probably.  But not my first choice.  I am glad that she does have loyal followers though. I hate to cut down any author's work


This is the cover on the book that I read.  I actually think I like it better than the one it has now.  I also think that  I read the 1994 copy.  




Tuesday, November 27, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- STRATAGEM by Robin Caroll


Deep in the gritty underbelly of New Orleans, psychologist Grayson Thibodeaux loses everything when his wife leaves him to climb her company’s corporate ladder. He buries himself in his job of creating mind-bending adventure games for businesses as team-building explorations. When his ex-wife’s company hires Grayson’s to create an elaborate game, he doesn’t see how things can get worse. Until she dies during the course of the game he created…making him the prime suspect for murder.
AMAZON  5 STARS


Amazing, simply amazing!  It didn't take long for me to get drawn into the story and find that I liked Grayson a whole lot.  He was brilliant, that almost goes without saying.  But he was also a caring man who had got shafted by his ex.   But his ex-wife Anna Belle didn't just save the pain for Grayson, she spread it around liberally.  Even her own mother felt it. 
Some of the players in the book:
Pam Huron- Grayson's loyal assistant and friend
Colton York- co- Business Partner with Grayson
Anna Belle- Grayson's ex wife
Brandon Gibbons- police investigator and friend of Grayson's.  He is involved as a co-investigator on the murder.  And has at times before this consulted with Grayson on other cases.  
Danielle Witz-  a policewoman who was co-investigating the murder.  She has an ax to grind with Grayson.  
It was interesting that all of the people who were in the house when Anna Belle died all had the same story.  Well..until the private interviews, then previous things that hadn't been mentioned were suddenly brought up.  It caused  a whole lot of  missing parts of a puzzle begin to show up.  What a mess for the investigators.  But what great reading for "us". 
I won't even go into who were all in the house during the "game" besides Anna Belle.  That just needs to unfold on its own and so does some of their motives.  Other than the fact that they were four people  competing for a very lucrative promotion.  But they weren't the only ones in the house.  So let the games begin.  And it includes some pretty rough game moves.  

I have to say, in my mind I kept saying "what about ___(this person)?  My radar was up about that person and I was suspicious part way through.   I also kept thinking, "Motive, Motive, what would be the motive?"  I guess all kinds of things but I was wrong, wrong, wrong about the motive.  
This book had so many twists and turns that it just kept me guessing.  I really enjoyed that and it all came together working towards  a dramatic conclusion.  One thing I will say is that at least once, I got temporarily lost in some of the details.  The time-lines of when/how things happened was so clever and had me temporarily off balance.  But it didn't last and it was worth it over all.  So was the depth of the personalities of the people in the book.  I can't wait to read more by this author.  
I almost forgot to mention that faith in God and prayer are mentioned but do not over power the book.  It just adds another dimension.  If you don't like stories with God in it?  Please don't pass this book by because of that..it was outstanding!

I voluntarily read an Advanced Readers Copy of this book via Netgalley and these are my honest opinions of it.  

BOOK REVIEW- Hawk (The Road Rebels MC Book 1) by Savannah Rylan

Hawk (The Road Rebels MC Book 1) by [Rylan, Savannah]

She was supposed to be mine forever.

But the night our father's were killed, Sydney decided this life wasn't for her.
So she ran.
She left me, and our club behind.
I never expected to see her on my doorstep six years later.
With our child.
She looks different, but she's still as beautiful as ever.
Those hips, her sultry smile, I can't get over her.
But she didn't leave the life, and she's got a DEA agent on her tail.
I have to keep her safe, and my daughter too.
I'll do anything to protect them.
Even if I have to lie to my club about her.   AMAZON 3 stars

Although I liked both Sydney and Hawk, it began to feel like it was sex with a story built around that.  Yes, Yes, I know it's a biker story so it's kind of expected but still for me it was a tad too much.  
On the plus side I did like the loyalty that Hawk displayed for his biker family and Sydney and their daughter Emery.  You could see the struggle that it felt like he was being torn between the two.  
I did like the tenderness that Hawk showed with his newly discovered daughter.   
There was also the battle with the two other biker gangs and the DEA agent chasing Sydney.  So that did add danger and action to the story. 
So I probably would have enjoyed it a bit more with a little less sex and a little less crude language.  But yeah...Bike gang right?    Just wish I enjoyed it more.  It had potential. 



BOOK REVIEW- The Heir (Billionaire Royals Book 1) by Sophia Summers

The Heir (Billionaire Royals Book 1) by [Summers, Sophia]
This Novella is the first of seven in the Billionaire Royal Series.

Home for the summer, Jo Finley struggles to save her family's marina, comfort her ailing father, and find a way to break up with a controlling boyfriend. She quickly becomes distracted by a newcomer to their small town. Immediate attraction has her reeling and second-guessing her choices. 
Nick Waters, otherwise known as Nico Valdez, Crown Prince of Torren, an island country off of Greece, is hiding out in Shady Lake South Carolina for the summer. His one task: no entanglements with other women. Lay low until the press in his country move on to other scandals. But when he meets Jo, he soon realizes she is an entanglement in the making. He gives up trying to resist her and determines to enjoy an enticing summer fling with a beautiful woman who keeps him grounded in ways no one else can.

When Nico gets called home for a family emergency, and Jo must stay to take care of her father and business, they realize how desolate their lives could be alone. AMAZON 3 STARS

Look for the following titles to be released soon: The Crown, The Duke, The Duke's Brother, The Spy

This was a charming, quick read with interesting main characters; although I didn't get pulled that deep into it.  More like a summer read.  There are some challenges in it of course but they do get worked out for now. I liked that they started out as friends.   The follow up book about Jo and Nick and their adventures is in the next book, " The Crown".

 Jo is a steady, loving woman who is also hardworking.  So hardworking that she has almost lost the fun loving side of her personality.  Her boyfriend Kevin isn't much help in that area either. He is so hardworking that he is kind of driven and  he pretty much stomps out that part of Jo's personality. Whether consciously or not, that is his affect; he's a snooze.   Being responsible is one thing but Jo quickly begins to wonder whether she really love him or not.  I say, dump the bum, there's no sizzle there. 
Nick has a bit of the opposite problem of being way too much into fun that it gets him into trouble.  He doesn't chuck all of his responsibilities but he's been followed around by the paparazzi and they have snapped some uncomfortable pictures that have him now trying to lay low.  His friend and assistant Julian has his back and adds to the story.  Julian also has a romance brewing with Jo's best friend Sierra which is something we just get a peek into.   I wonder if they will get their own story?   
My final words on this book is that it was sweet, clean and probably would be well suited to a younger audience.  

Monday, November 26, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Beachcomber Gone (Book #9) by Stephanie Queen *

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 Just when Dane thought they would marry, Shana's gone...

After years of trying to resist their love affair, PI partners Dane & Shana are ready to tie the knot. But their visit to Shana's home in Australia goes terribly wrong when old enemies track her down. 

Dane & Shana travel to Australia so that Dane can meet her family, but they land in a minefield of problems. Shana's mother is in trouble, being used as bait. The police pension fraud case has been re-opened amid speculation that there was an insider involved. Someone is trying to set Shana up to take the fall. Now Dane and Shana need to find the dangerous embezzlers and bring them down to keep Shana out of jail--and to keep her alive alive.   AMAZON 4 STARS

Even though they get a heads-up about the danger ahead of time..it doesn't help a whole lot, things still don't go as planned.  And isn't that what you would expect from a good story?  Once again there is plenty of action, mystery and danger.  I have read other books in this series and I think that this one would still be a good stand alone book.  
Early on, Dane has a feeling about Kevin Ivory that made him uneasy.  He just couldn't put his finger on what it was exactly.  You get to ride along on that train trying to figure out if he is a good guy or not.  And you won't get a good beat on that until much later in the story and at times you might still wonder. It's made clear towards the end of the book.
I loved the fact that Dane acknowledged that brains in a a woman was his Achilles' heel.  He is quite the complex man but in some ways so is Shana.  I like that she is loving, and tender with Dane but also was a tough warrior when she had to be. She knew how to put on her game face on vs. Dane's stone face.  Of course he also had a charming face and a shark face.  I liked how that was shown in the story.   This was just a couple of the "faces" of Dane, but they gave an interesting feel to the story.  After reading so many of the books where they were fighting their attraction, it was great to see them all in when it came to their feelings. 
It was nice to get a look into Shana's family and how they figured in the story.
Shana and Dane are used to having more backup when it comes to dangerous capers but this time their help is few and some even further away. It was like the next thing I knew I looked up and it was over.  Don't get me wrong, the ending wasn't abrupt or missing anything.  Everything gets wrapped up satisfactorily and the story flowed quickly.   I was just that into it.  That is what I am saying. 
I would like to add that I really liked the fresh new look of the book cover. 

I voluntarily received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion of it. 

Sunday, November 25, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Tied to the Barbarian by Abella Ward

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I’m tied to a demanding and bossy alien. And there’s nowhere to go…

Kara is the assistant coordinator to the Argarian Ambassador. When she covers for the Ambassador’s daughter Nariya by taking her place in a meeting, she has no idea what the consequences will be.

Before she knows it she is tied to a barbarian warrior. He’s arrogant, demanding and bossy.

And handsome, strong and hot.

Commander Arazor is the head of the Elite Galactic Force on the planet Agrion. His alliance with the Argarians will be symbolized by his marriage to their Ambassador’s daughter. It’s a political deal, nothing more.

He didn’t count on being betrayed. On being tied to a human.

But there are more important things at stake. Nariya has been kidnapped and Kara needs to bring her back.

Arazor has no choice. He has to accompany Kara. He’s bound to protect her. Even if that means traveling across the universe into dangerous territory.

Even if it means letting her change his cold heart…

Even if it means dying for her…

NOTE: This book includes bonus stories!

Tied to the Barbarian Warrior is a 60-page standalone book in a series of scifi romance novels, featuring the Space Station Andromeda 13. Other parts of the series:
Slave to the Barbarian King
Auctioned to the Barbarian Warrior
Mated to the Barbarian Heir

 Definitely intended for 18+ readers.   
GOODREADS


I liked the main story it had good characters and a quick, enjoyable story. I didn't know when I got it that there were going to be a collection of other stories in it too.  They were pretty good too.  Although I have to say I can't comment on the shifter stories because I don't read them anymore.

Saturday, November 24, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Guarding her Heart (Renegade Love Bodyguard Novel Book 1) by Jade Webb

Guarding Her Heart (Renegade Love Bodyguard Novel Book 1) by [Webb, Jade]
Heart-stopping, life-changing sparks. 

That is the only way I can describe the first time I met Liam.

But he was my sister’s bodyguard and I was only here for one reason: to make sure my sister doesn’t have yet another embarrassing public meltdown. If I can keep my pop star diva sister out of trouble, then I can get my promised free ride to law school and chase my dreams of being a public defender. 

So until I have a law degree in my hand, I cannot afford any distractions. 

And Liam? He is most definitely a distraction. 

I’m tired of living under my family’s careful rules and law school is my way out. I won’t let anything get in my way, and I definitely won’t let anyone close enough to break down my walls. 

But will guarding my heart lose me a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime kind of love? AMAZON 3.5 STARS

A good romance with interesting main characters. And also a few secondary people too.  Gabby's sister, Daphne being one of those in this story.
Gabby is whip smart but a runner when it comes to showing her feelings or looking for love.  She has valid reasons to be afraid after seeing her mom and dad handle things and taught her to shove emotions down.  Reputation and family name you know?  Her parents relationship is a mess and her brother Lawrence and sister Daphne aren't doing so well in the love department either.  When things get too intense for Gabby, she cuts and runs and hides.  That is how she copes.  And she hates the rich lifestyle and her sister's lifestyle is even worse for her.  All she has ever dreamed of was going to college to be a lawyer.  
Liam is a good guy, a hard worker and gets swept off his feet by Gabby a lot faster than he would have liked. He's really fighting to do his job as a bodyguard and keep his hands off Gabby. And his lips and everything else.  Well, that works...for a while.
I liked that each character had their own "voice" since we got to hear what each one's thoughts were through their own P.O.V. 
Oh, there is a couple of sex scenes in the book, later than sooner.
While I did enjoy this one, I wouldn't say it is a favorite but I would like to read the stories of both of Gabby's siblings. Especially Lawrence's, "Defending her Dignity".  



Friday, November 23, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Ariston (Star Guardians #6) by Ruby Lionsdrake

Ariston (Star Guardians) by [Lionsdrake, Ruby]
An undercover Star Guardian agent sworn to enforce the law.
A US marine turned galactic pilot, inadvertently breaking the law. 
Trapped on a mysterious planet full of dangerous ruins, these two enemies must work together—and deal with their growing attraction—as they struggle to survive.

It’s been two years since delegates from the Confederation visited our solar system, pointing out a wormhole that leads into the rest of the galaxy. Former Marine Michelle “Mick” Saunders was one of the first people from Earth to acquire a spaceship and venture out among the stars. Still haunted by the devastating event that prompted her to leave the military, she’s led a lonely life of late, and longs to find something greater out there. 

But for now, she has a spaceship to pay off, so her longings must be set aside. When an Earth corporation wants to send a team of researchers to a uninhabited planet full of ancient human ruins, she accepts the job of transporting them. Little does she know that someone else has a claim on the planet, and that there’s a reason it isn’t inhabited anymore. 

When Mick runs into a Star Guardian, one of the fierce warriors that enforce Confederation laws, she realizes she should have asked more questions before accepting the mission. A lot more questions. Even though the hunky Ariston is someone she would rather date than fight, he doesn’t look like one to be swayed from his duty by a flirty smile. Instead, he’s determined to arrest her. 

Ariston, a Star Guardian placed under cover on a salvage ship suspected of illegal activities, hasn’t known contentment since he lost his wife years ago. But he’s not looking for anyone new. Especially now. He has evidence to gather and a rogue crew to turn in. There’s no time for distractions, definitely not in the form of an Earth woman trespassing on a protected planet. 

But Mick, a fighter and a beauty, intrigues him. Despite his certainty that he shouldn’t get involved, he finds himself wanting to protect her from the dangers of the ruins, as well as the salvage crew plotting to capture her vessel. His mission would have been daunting even without extra complications, but now, he must choose between his duty and the woman rousing feelings within him for the first time in years.

Ariston is the sixth science fiction romance novel set in the Star Guardians universe. It is a complete, stand-alone adventure that can be read without familiarity with the rest of the series. AMAZON 5 STARS

What a great story.  Both of the main characters were strong, honorable, likable, well skilled warriors. Mick had quite a few layers to her personality and I really enjoyed it.  In fact I just flat out liked her.  Ariston had quite the struggle on his hands, he didn't know how to handle Mick.  At first he's positive that she's probably a criminal. One that he would have to arrest and bring in for punishment.  As time goes on he suddenly isn't so sure.  He comes to admire and like her all the time also questioning her motives. 

The world building, the sci-fi of it was really good. The armor that the Star Guardians had was quite unique too.  Mick also has some of that armor too although legally she's not supposed to.  Another point against her in Ariston's eyes.  And there was plenty of action just to survive when they along with her crew fight to get off the planet. Well, they don't want to leave until they get their samples and etc.  What Mick really has is just a group of mainly snotty scientists.  Well, there are a couple of nice scientists and Dev was one of those.  She was science all the way though, so she often discounted danger if she was dug in with her soil samples.  
The attraction between Ariston and Mick got quite hot even when they didn't think they could trust each other.  But time and again Mick had Ariston's back and vice versa.  

I liked the ending of the book and look forward to more by this author.  
I also have to add that  Mick and Ariston get together for some love scenes towards the end of the book.  But I liked the fact that the sexual action wasn't the main story with the rest kind of added almost as an after fact.  This was a real story with a real plot, relateable people that often had me at the edge of my seat.  

Thursday, November 22, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Above All Things by Deborah Raney

Above All Things by [Raney, Deborah]
They were on their way to being a real family…until she came into their lives.


Expecting their first baby, Judd and Evette McGlin are thrilled at the prospect of becoming parents. But their marriage faces the ultimate test when Judd learns he already has a child: a six-year-old bi-racial daughter, born amid secrets and lies. Now, Evette must decide if she can accept the child—and forgive Judd. She thought she was open-minded—until hidden prejudices threaten the future of an innocent little girl, Evette's marriage, and the very notion of the woman she's believed herself to be. Above all things, this child needs acceptance and love. Needs Evette to discover what being a mother truly means. Needs Judd to face his past. And needs them both to discover what it truly means to be a family.

This novel was originally published in 2009 under the same title by Steeple Hill.It has been updated from the original edition. AMAZON  5 STARS

Wow, what a powerful book.  Emotional.  That one word describes a lot about this book.  Emotional but really good too.  The struggles are real and not easily overcome. 

The faith of both Judd and Evette is severely tested and they begin to see things in themselves that make them cringe.  Especially Evette who had to do some serious growing up when she looked into the "mirror" and didn't like what she saw.  But she is going to have to work through some anger and resentment first.  She is also kind of over her head when it comes to the things that she needs to care physically for Jolie.  
Like hair and skin care, as a white woman, that opened my eyes a bit.  

 Judd "falls in love" with his daughter almost immediately, but has to realize it's not that easy for his wife.  He realizes that he is asking a lot of her but things don't ease for them as a couple for a while. It helped when their pastor wisely counsels him to back off and give her time. Judd is a good man, but he also has to man up to some things that are painful too.  You can almost feel how torn he is too.  The flash backs of who Tabrina was and the current things she is going through was also good and added depth and emotion as well. 

Judd's daughter Jolie is another player in this story.  And wow, she has been through some serious stuff and some serious changes.  Meeting her father and his wife is another major milestone for her.  Her grandmother Carla loves her but she is torn between helping her daughter,Tabrina and her granddaughter.  They both need her so desperately.  What a tough spot to be in, but don't mistake her for a pushover.  She causes some "problems" too. 

It almost feels like a tug-of-war at times over where Jolie should be and with who would be best.  The problem if you want to call it that was that she was SO well loved and no one wanted to give her up in their daily lives.  
Their families (both Judd and Evette's) and community do present some challenges as well.  They do have some in the community who rally around them but not all do of course.  
And some of those struggles that I mentioned, are not going to be overcome in a cookie cutter, perfect, H.E.A. way in the fairy-tales.   It's life but there comes a sort of H.E.A. for some.  Some compromises have to be made.  But I did like the ending with the Epilogue, that included a surprise or two. 

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Running with a Sweet Talker by Jami Albright

Running with a Sweet Talker (Brides on the Run Book 2) by [Albright, Jami]

She's a take-no-prisoners fireball. He's a sweet-talking charmer. It could be love...if they don't kill each other first.


Hotshot lawyer Luanne Price may not believe in happily ever after, but she'd do just about anything to earn her absentee father's love. So when he waltzes back into her life with a plan for her to marry his business associate, she foolishly agrees. But on the wedding day, things go south. Fast. Luanne's desperate to get away, even if that means hitching a cross-country ride with the infuriating Jack Avery.

Jack needs to get Luanne out of his system. He'll watch her tie the knot and forget about her. Once she's married to another man, then she'll be off-limits forever. Solid plan. Until he spots her army-crawling through the bushes to escape the Wedding of the Season.

He knows he should let someone else deal with the runaway bride. But if there's one thing Jack has never been able to do, it's resist Luanne. Will their romance rev up on the open road, or will Jack and Luanne crash and burn?

Running With a Sweet Talker is the second book in a series of comedic contemporary romance novels. If you like zany characters, razor-sharp wit, and unlikely love stories, then you'll love the second book in Jami Albright's Brides on the Run series.   AMAZON 5+ STARS


I LOVED this book!   The first book in this series, "Running from a Rock Star" was when I was first introduced to this author and this series.  After reading the other one I was quick to grab this book.  Just the time that Luanne and Jack spent in the first book was enough for me to know that I wanted to read this one.  And I enjoyed every last minute of it. 
This author is now on my mental file of favorite authors list.  

Both Jack and Luanne were complex, funny, hearts as big as all out doors, mouthy,  characters.  And yes, some of their conversations were definitely for adult people. A few of their situations were too!  More than once family blinded sided both of them.  At first I thought only Luanne was going to have to deal, but Jack had something come at him out of the blue that was Mega serious. 
I laughed a lot as I read this book.  Jack calling Luanne, "Thumbelina" made me smile and made her mad.  Several people thought of her as this tiny pixie, but Jack knew she was a fireball.  Jack had many "faces" when it came to cover up his emotions.  He had come from nothing and fought his way up.  
There were plenty of good addition secondary people in the story too.  Jack's family being a part of that.  Luanne's father was also something else, written in a way that you can see who he really is.  All of the characters had a depth.  
So, laughter, depth of characters, unusual situations, some serious life challenges, great main characters that pretty much says why I really loved this book.  Keep 'em coming author.  




Tuesday, November 20, 2018

BOOK REVIEW- Dead Drift (Chesapeake Valor Book #4) by Dani Pettrey

Dead Drift (Chesapeake Valor Book #4) by [Pettrey, Dani]
Burning debris littering the ground . . . smoke pluming in the acrid air . . . this is just the beginning if he fails.

Seven years ago, operative Luke Gallagher vanished to become part of an elite team set on capturing a deadly terrorist. When Luke returns to face those he left behind, their help becomes his only hope of stopping his target's latest threat of an attack that would shake America to its core.

Private investigator Kate Maxwell never stopped loving or looking for Luke after he disappeared. But she also never imagined he left her or his life by choice. Now he's back, and together they must unravel a twisting thread of secrets, lies, and betrayal, all while on the brink of a biological disaster.

Will they and their love survive, or will Luke and Kate become the terrorist's next mark? 
AMAZON 4 STARS


I've been waiting to get my hands on this one for a while.  I have read the previous books in this series.   I enjoyed them all and really wanted to know what happened to Luke Gallagher.  I had my fingers crossed hoping that this book lived up to not only the other ones but my expectations.  And I did end up liking it.  It brought to conclusion more than one mystery, one of which is directly related to Luke.  It shows where he has been, what he has been up to and reveals some more of his enemies than the one terrorist he is after.  That thread alone was dangerous with plenty of action.
Another action play has to do with finding out who and where the serial killer is that killed Jenna many years ago.  The tension is high on this one too.  
It was good to see the whole team of friends working together once again.  They are more matured and skilled than when Luke knew them but so is he.  Luke has more than one attack of conscience when it comes to what he had to do while working for the CIA.
Kate still loves Luke but it's going to be a while before she opens her heart up to him again.  I liked how her faith in God was also a part of her surviving that hurt for 7 years.  Faith also plays a part in the rest of the friend but it adds and doesn't detract from the story.
It did take me a while to get back in the swing of all the cast of characters when it came to all the friends and their wives/girlfriends.  But it didn't take too long and I think it could be read as a stand-alone book because you get enough of the background to know what is going on.  I am glad that I had read the others  in the series though because they were good too.  
Everything does get tied up at the end and I was kind of sorry to see the end of it.  But who knows maybe the team will work together in the future on another "job".