BOOK REVIEW- TO CAPTURE A WARRIOR Logan's Legends (A Revelry’s Tempest Novel Book 5) by K.J. Jackson

War ripped them apart. Fate will bring them back together.

After losing track of Bridget during the war on the continent, Hunter Crawford has spent two years scouring England to find the only woman he’s ever loved. His search futile, he finally, bitterly, gives up hope and ceases his search for her. 

One rule. Don’t fall in love with a soldier.
Going into war to help her surgeon father on the edges of the Napoleonic battlefields was an easy decision for Bridget Morton. Her father’s only rule? Do not fall in love with a soldier. Dutifully, she nurses hundreds of men back to health with nary a stray eye toward fancies of love. Until her father dies and she meets Hunter. And she learns too quickly how very right her father was. Love in war could only end in tragedy. Heartbroken, she returns to England.

What should have stayed in the past… 
Bridget put the war behind her, and with it, her love for Hunter. She has her hospital in London. She has purpose. But then Hunter walks through her hospital doors. The sparks between them cannot be denied, but will they both find the strength to let go of the past?

Join the adventure today! To Capture a Warrior, Logan's Legends tells the second tale of the guards of the Revelry's Tempest, an enchanting historical regency-era romance by USA Today bestselling author, K.J. Jackson.

Note: The novels in the Logan’s Legends, Revelry's Tempest series by K.J. Jackson are each stand-alone stories and can be read individually in any order. These historical romances are set in the Regency and Victorian eras, and do not shy away from scenes with steamy heat, occasional naughty language, and moments that might possibly make you squirm.    AMAZON 4 STARS

Dramatic start.  Things get really dangerous and scary as they are  in a fight for their lives.  You'll have to read the book to find out who I am talking about in this review.  There will be more danger.
I liked both of the main characters.  They were both honorable, caring people who had a HUGE misunderstanding or two that separated them.  
The 3 years that followed were tough, for both of them but in different ways.  They both were bitter, brokenhearted and suffering because of their interrupted love story. Oh, they weren't bitter towards others just feeling betrayed by each other.  The story did kind of settle into the angst of that betrayal a bit longer than I liked but I could also see why.  Each had reasonable explanations but they were still working through their feelings. 
Bridget sure put herself in some dangerous situations when it came to working in the hospital that she had opened as the story picks up. It's in a very dangerous man's territory.  His name is Bournestein and he is one evil, merciless crime lord.  Although that sounds almost to elegant a name for what he was.  
There is some unexpected, dangerous but exciting twists towards the end of the book.  And one satisfying Epilogue as well. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author via Book Funnel. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.

BOOK REVIEW- WICKED BURN (Realm Enforcers Book 3) by Rebecca Zanetti

Simone Brightston knows she can beat the rap her enemies are pinning on her. An Irish witch is nobody's fool, and she didn't get to her position on the high council without serious power. But her cousins want her to hide out--and they somehow convinced her arch nemesis to play getaway driver. 

Of all the men she's known, Nikolaj Veis is the hardest to intimidate. With his demon-dark eyes and his inscrutable beauty, he's as desirable as he is dangerous. And he knows better than to underestimate Simone. So when he pulls up on a roaring bike and tells her to climb on or fight it out, she grabs a handful of jacket and holds on tight. Running from the law may not be the smartest plan. But when it comes to Nick, hot pursuit and a blazing fast ride are exactly what Simone's looking for . . AMAZON 5 STARS

I've wanted to know their story for quite a while now.  And, wow, it was quite some story.  Their past history was emotional, painful and made it easier to understand the "hate on" that Simone had about Nickolai.  The hostility fairly crackled on the pages.  
I really liked BOTH main characters and they both have lived through some tough times.  They sure had a lot of people NOT wanting them together.  That included things that had to happen; they called it fate.  It wasn't safe for them to be together for a long time.
There is plenty of sizzle in this book.  Both in lots of action, mystery, betrayals and of course sex.  There is also some really great secondary people. People who have both Nick and Simone's backs against some pretty steep attacks.  There is also more than one enemy trying to control and bring Simone down.  Very well drawn, power hungry, down right evil guys.  Oh Peter, you are so going down but it looks like not in this book.  I didn't trust that guy from the first time he was introduced.  We don't know all of his story but I'm sure that will be coming.  
And where the heck is Tori?  There are a lot of people asking that question in the book and there is an intense search for her.
There is a H.E.A. for now for the two main characters.   But this is a series so there are several more things that have to be dealt with.  I want to know how things are going to be concluded so I already have the next book lined up to read.  I don't feel disappointed though, because there were a LOT of secrets unveiled in this book.  And they really needed to work on their communication when it came to rescuing each other.  It was almost funny although it caused tremendous problems for them too. 
Overall, another intense, edge of the seat book that I enjoyed. The world building was once again great. 

BOOK REVIEW- WICKED EDGE (Realm Enforcers Book 2) by Rebecca Zanetti

f you love the Dark Protectors, these wicked hot Realm Enforcers are for you!Daire Dunne is more than ready to take a quick break from his duties as a Coven Nine Enforcer. When he spots a sexy blonde across a Titan’s of Fire party, it’s not long before she’s on the back of his Harley on the fast track to his apartment. Unfortunately, one overheated kiss in, the woman drugs Daire and steals valuable files that can’t fall into enemy hands. The second he comes to, the hunt is on...

Now that Cee Cee has the information to take down an enemy that destroyed her family, she can implement her perfect plan for revenge. Nothing will stop her, not even a shockingly sexy enforcer barging into her life. Not even the spectacular, fire-branding sex engulfing them. But if Daire ever figures out who her family really is, all bets are off...AMAZON 5 STARS

Action starts right out the gate on this one.  Lots of action with the bad, tough Enforcer getting his butt kicked by one tiny blonde beauty.  He never saw that coming.  *Smile.
Cee Cee saw herself as weak but boy that was so NOT the case.  Her strengths lay in other areas.  Daire brings out the wilder side to Cee Cee and at times it was downright scary to others.  She had spent so much time under the thumb of others just to survive.  
Daire had a picture in his mind of the kind of woman he wanted when it came time for a more serious relationship.  Easy going, docile, "yes, I'll let you protect me" kind of woman.  Too bad he's attracted to a woman who is none of these things.  Well, at least not anymore. 
Twists, turns, surprises and more action follow through out the book.  It definitely kept me interested and involved. I thought it was really creative.   There is also humor and a ton of sex in case you wondered about that.  I don't remember there being this much in some of the other books but maybe I just skimmed over some of it.  
One thing I really appreciated in the book was that the demon nation was explained as simply another species.  It wasn't the heaven and hell kind of thing.  I was glad of that because I don't want to read books about ghosts or demons.

BOOK REVIEW- CHASING CHRISTMAS EVE by Jill Shalvis

Meet cute...

Run for the hills—temporarily. That’s Colbie Albright’s plan when she flees New York for San Francisco. Wrangling her crazy family by day and writing a bestselling YA fantasy series by night has taken its toll. In short, Colbie’s so over it that she’s under it. She’s also under the waters of a historic San Francisco fountain within an hour of arrival. Fortunately, the guy who fishes Colbie out has her looking forward to Christmas among strangers. But she’s pretty sure Spencer Baldwin won’t be a stranger for long.

Make merry...

Spence’s commitment to hiding from the Ghosts of Relationships Past means he doesn’t have to worry about the powerful—okay, crazy hot—chemistry he’s got with Colbie. Just because she can laugh at anything, especially herself... just because she’s gorgeous and a great listener…just because she “gets” Spence immediately doesn’t mean he won’t be able to let Colbie go. Does it?

…and hope for a miracle.

Now the clock’s ticking for Colbie and Spence: Two weeks to cut loose. Two weeks to fall hard. Two weeks to figure out how to make this Christmas last a lifetime.  AMAZON   5 STARS

I LOVED, LOVED this story!  It was Quirky and Funny and made me smile and even laugh out loud more than a time or two. It's a book I wouldn't mind reading more than once!

   

Colbie was a hoot, and the things that came out of her mouth were so funny!  And her way of using other words to substitute for cuss words were funny too!  She was a very talented author but also had some ditsy accidents.  It just made me like her more.  It was like it wasn't that she fell down but more like the floor raised up and hit her.  Don't get me wrong, she knew it and owned the fact.   She was also super responsible for others too.  That also caught up with her and was one of the reasons she "ran away."  She knew it was only going to be for a few weeks, but boy  did people hound her to take care of them.   She needed a break.  

Spence was another interesting main character.  Geeky, handsome genius.   A man who had learned to be all work and no play.  He figured he could either be successful as an inventor or as a man with a relationship with a woman.  He just couldn't make both work together.  

Some of Spence's gang of friends added to the fun.  Especially,  Elle his BFF, protector and building manager.  She was one good but tough friend.  A friend bent on tearing up anyone who tried to take advantage of Spence.  Which makes things kind of tough because Elle knows that Colbie is hiding something about herself.  And she's going to find out what it is come hell or high water.

I enjoyed the game that the two main characters played.  The one where they tried to guess what the other one did for a living.  It made for some interesting times.  

Yes, there will be romance and there will be sex too.  

There is also a good Epilogue with a H.E.A. that had flair. 

P.S. I would have given this book high marks for the humor alone. But to let you know there were some serious issues as well.  It wasn't ALL fun and games.

BOOK REVIEW- BLAINE'S WAGER (Book #7) by Shirleen Davies

Bringing her to the ranch was a very bad idea.
Now all he wants is to convince her to stay.

Blaine’s Wager, Book Seven, MacLarens of Boundary Mountain Historical Western Romance Series

Blaine MacLaren yearns to be a man his family considers a strong leader. After a lifetime living in his older brother’s shadow, his uncles finally give him the chance he craves—running their new properties near Settlers Valley. Embracing the challenge, he rides away from Circle M with only one regret—leaving the woman he desires more than he cares to admit.

Lia Jacobs has been running for four years, staying a few towns ahead of the family who plans to drag her home. Landing in Conviction, she believes herself safe, until a wildly handsome man turns her dreams upside down.

Beginning to trust him and forging a friendship, she starts to think a future, maybe even love, is possible. Then he rides away, leaving her alone with shattered dreams and a bruised heart.

The days are long, the nights longer as Blaine works to keep the woman he’d left behind from his thoughts. Nothing helps, until a series of threatening events forces him to focus on the ranch and not the throbbing pain in his chest.

Lia buries herself in her work, forgetting the danger of staying in one place too long. The arrival of those who search for her forces Lia to make a tough decision—one taking her away from a known danger and into the path of another.

She may have outsmarted those who chase her. But is exchanging one type of threat for another, one endangering her heart, any better?

Blaine’s Wager, book seven in the MacLarens of Boundary Mountain Historical Western Romance Series, is a stand-alone, full-length novel with an HEA and no cliffhanger.   AMAZON 4 STARS

Good main characters, good supporting secondary people, mysteries and action are all in this book.  Oh and romance is in it too. It does take time to develop and it does start out as friendship. Yes, there is attraction between Blaine and Lia.  Lia realizes sooner than Blaine does that she loves him.  Oh, he knows that he really likes her, cares about her and is protective of her but it takes him awhile to figure it all out.  All he knows is that he doesn't want her to leave.

Lia was really Pemilla Jacobs and she had quite the interesting reason to be on the run.  I didn't see that coming. I love it when author's surprise me like that. 
There seems to be more than one enemy after Blaine and his ranch.  So that caused plenty of action.  You just didn't know how or when they were going to strike. 
On a final note, I liked how the title of the book came about. 

 I was given this ARC and I voluntarily wrote this honest review of it.

BOOK REVIEW- THE BRIDEGROOM (Stone Creek #5) by Linda Lael Miller

Undercover agent Gideon Yarbro is renowned for stopping outlaws almost before they commit a crime. But now he must stop a wedding—despite the bride’s resistance. Lydia Fairmont will lose everything if she doesn’t honor her betrothal to a heartless banker. The only loophole is if she marries someone else instead, but to her, one loveless match is the same as another. 

It’s not good enough for Gideon. Determined to honor his own decade-old promise to help Lydia, he carries her off to Stone Creek and makes her his reluctant wife. Forget a honeymoon for “show”—not with a vengeful ex-fiancé on their trail and a hired gun on the loose. But there just might be hope for the marriage…and two hearts meant for each other.   AMAZON  3.5 STARS 
Originally published in 2009

While I liked this book, I wouldn't say that it's a favorite. It's kind of slow at times.  I did like the main characters and the supporting cast of people.  Gideon had some really good brothers who added to the story.  So did their wives and children.  It was interesting that the brothers had found good lives after the criminal life they had before.  
Gideon was an honorable man who cared about others.  He had been hurt deeply as a very young child when he suffered a horrible loss.  In some ways it was still affecting him as an adult.  Gideon had a big chip on his shoulder when it came to his being called "little brother".  Even though he'd had some dangerous careens, he was so often feeling like he had to prove himself to his two older brothers. He was tired of being treated like a kid and often tried to rile his brothers because of it.  Underneath it all was the knowledge that they all had each other's backs though.

Lydia was in a tight spot trying to save everyone and not seeing to be able to save herself from a horrendous marriage.  As the blurb mentions Gideon does ride to her rescue although at times breaking her heart at other times.  He didn't mean to but that didn't help Lydia all that much at times.  Lydia's two elderly aunts were a whole lot of fun as was their housekeeper Helga.  Helga was so much more than JUST a housekeeper.  And because of that she felt absolutely free to say exactly what she thought about things.  

There is a huge twist or two towards the end of the book and also includes an Epilogue. 

BOOK REVIEW- THE WICKED HEIR (The Spare Heirs) by Elizabeth Michels

The Spare Heirs Society Cordially Invites You to Meet Fallon St. James: The Mastermind

When the love of Lady Isabelle Fairlyn's life is betrothed to her twin sister, Isabelle vows to find a suitable replacement before the end of the season. He must be a talented dancer, have a keen fashion sense, and be perfectly dashing in every way.

Fallon St. James is the farthest thing from perfectly anything. As head of the secretive Spare Heirs Society, he must stick to the shadows...even as Isabelle's friendship pulls him reluctantly into the light. But when Isabelle gets involved with the one man who could destroy Spares, Fallon must decide between protecting his life's work―or risking everything to save the woman whose warm smile leaves him breathless.  AMAZON

I hate to do this to any author but I just couldn't finish this book.  I wasn't very far into it before I just gave up.   One of the main characters was so immature, and naive that I just couldn't continue.  Could it have improved? Maybe but just couldn't get into it.  It was a story that I HAD been looking forward to but it was just NOT my cup of tea.  
I didn't leave a review on Amazon but I wanted to make sure to leave one on my blog.  Why?  Because I didn't want to accidentally buy it or re-read it.  Enough said. 

Popular Xylitol Products that can Poison Your Dog

Popular Xylitol Products that can Poison Your Dog

BOOK REVIEW- SOMEONE LIKE YOU by Susan Mallery

Jill Strathern left town for the big city and never looked back—until she returned home years later to run a small law practice. It turns out her childhood crush, Mac Kendrick, a burned-out LAPD cop, has also come back to sleepy Los Lobos. Even though Mac rejected her back in high school, Jill can't deny the attraction she still feels for him.

Now Jill and Mac are tangled in enough drama to satisfy the most jaded L.A. denizens—Mafia dons, social workers, angry exes and one very quirky eight-year-old make even the simplest romance complicated. And it all goes to prove that when it comes to affairs of the heart, there's no place like home. An unlikely pair…but a perfect match.   AMAZON 4.5 STARS

This book had me smiling almost right off the bat.  And part of the fun started with Jill's creative ideas about getting revenge on her cheating,  promotion stealing,  soon to  be ex-husband.  She often called him "the lying weasel rat bastard dog."  Her Aunt Bev was almost as much fun as Jill's revenge plot!  Unique person coming right up. I can see that she's going to be quite an addition to the story. Also someone who loved Jill a whole lot!  
Jill does want to get out of Los Lobos as soon as possible.  She hates it there and keeps telling everyone her stay there wasn't permanent, it was temporary at best.  As time goes on you begin to wonder if she's trying to convince herself.  Her temporary office was a hoot as was the often hostile office help by the name of Tina.
Mac was a really good main character and his plate keeps getting piled higher with problem after problem.  His daughter Emily was someone he loved with every breath in his body but he had screwed up when it came to his relationship with her.  He was trying to recover lost ground and it isn't easy.
One of the funniest revenge plots of Jill's had to do with her ex's fancy, expensive car. It was kind of his baby, his pride and joy.  It was also part of their community property so she took it with her when she left him.  Now she was doing her best (or is that her worst) to endanger it.  

I liked the author's writing style in this.  And some of the ways the conversations went and some of the descriptive phrases.  Like when Mac told Wilma that he had everything under control.  Wilma's response put a smile on my face for sure.  "That's what lemmings always say right before they jump off the cliff".  

There will be H.E.A. but not before some dramatic, and some dangerous 
events that happen first. 

BOOK REVIEW- BECAUSE OF YOU (Survivor Series Book 1) by Emilia Finn

Alex Turner is a small town chief of police. He lives a modest life; truth, honor, and safety his hard and fast rules. He won’t bend them. He won’t break them. In a world where chaos reigns supreme, Alex is happy with his lowly and uncomplicated lifestyle.

Juliette Jones is a successful lawyer and the heiress to the Jones family fortune. She wears red bottom heels and has an ever-expanding wardrobe of designer labels.

Alex and Juliette only have one thing in common; and it’s that they have absolutely nothing in common.

Murder, secrets, families, and careers come between this couple. Can they overcome it all? And will they do it before another blonde-haired, blue-eyed, twenty-something year old woman turns up dead on Alex’s doorstep?   AMAZON  3.5 STARS


This book was so hard for me to rate, because parts I really liked and some others not so much. 

Likes-  Interesting main characters, people who are not your norm.  Loyal, honest people with quirky personalities. A good community of caring people.    Britt who is Alex's sister.  Alex's best friend Oz and co-worker added some funny moments.  And that is something else that I liked there were quite a few smile worthy times in the book. Some of the conversations between Juliette and Alex were really funny.
Also, an unexpected murder mystery going on and it does get resolved.
A H.E.A. is always nice too.
Alex's "ugly" dog,  Bowser. The nicknames that different people call Alex. The "X" was kind of cute.  Some other people called him "deputy" just to rile him in a sassy but goodnatured way. It was kind of different that Juliette gave Alex different nicknames for the different kinds of personality sides showed up.  Like:  Grumpy Alex, Shy Alex, Weirdo Alex" just to  mention a few.  

Dislikes- Too MANY people introduced, that at times had my head spinning. I had a hard time keeping them straight.  Just a bit too much sex talk and actions.  There were some times when some of the talk was kind of cheesy.  

Pruning Lilac Bushes: When To Trim Lilac Bushes

Pruning Lilac Bushes: When To Trim Lilac Bushes

BOOK REVIEW- THE SPIRIT-LED HEART by Suzanne Eller

Without realizing it, we've gotten lost in our own little lives. We've settled for "good enough" and days that run together in an unmemorable blur. We long for something to shake us up, but we're exhausted by the thought of it too.

In her warm, vulnerable style, bestselling Proverbs 31 author Suzanne Eller shows how living and loving without limits has nothing to do with your own efforts--and it has everything to do with God's Holy Spirit. Unpacking the promises and teachings Jesus shared with the disciples about the Holy Spirit, Suzanne shows how you can stop settling and start truly living. When you learn to unwrap the gift of his presence, you'll find the world-changing, foundation-shaking, soul-stirring life of passion and purpose God is waiting to give you.   AMAZON 4 STARS

This book had my attention at the introduction no less.  That was a surprise to me.  But the prayer at the beginning of the book before we ever even got into the chapters?  Can I just say, "Wow"?  It was so real, easy to relate to and tender.  It's written by Jennifer Dukes Lee and I'm so glad that the author included it. 

I liked how she explained about people need to understand when they are in a confidence crisis when it comes to their faith.  That phrase, "confidence crisis" stuck with me.  "Faith isn't a doubt-free walk, but a dependent walk" what a great way to explain the feelings that people go through.
 I liked the examples of real, well I mean, currently living people.  But I also liked the scripture about real people in the Bible. There was a good balance of both.  It wasn't done in a heavy handed super scholarly way either. 
 I enjoyed how each of the chapters ended. It ends with "The Word", "Your Spirit-Led  Promise",  "Spirit-Led Invitation" and a "Prayer". 
One of my favorite stories had to be when a man asked her why did she call herself a Christian?  And her simple answer from the heart ended up being more powerful that she could have ever imagined.   She only found out how powerful much, much later.  She explains how she had felt somewhat guilty because she hadn't even used even one scripture in her answer. We do that guilt thing to ourselves not even realizing Holy Spirit has a better way that at times we don't understand.  She gave some really good insight to those Holy Spirit nudges too. 
I think my last comments would be reading this book was liking sitting down with a friend.   It definitely would have been a great book to be able to read when I was a very young Christian.  And is still relevant to me as someone who has been a Christian for a while. 



I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House

Kenneth Copeland Ministries -

Kenneth Copeland Ministries -

Kenneth Copeland Ministries - A Prayer of Protection Against School Shootings

Kenneth Copeland Ministries - A Prayer of Protection Against School Shootings

How Jesus Restores, Reintegrates and Heals Our Brokenness

How Jesus Restores, Reintegrates and Heals Our Brokenness



 Mark Virkler

BOOK REVIEW- FIREWALL by DiAnn Mills

After a whirlwind romance, Taryn Young is preparing to board a plane at Houston International Airport, bound for a dream honeymoon, when a bomb decimates the terminal. Injured but still alive, she awakens to discover her husband is missing and they’re both considered prime suspects in the attack. Further, the FBI is convinced her husband isn’t who he appears to be.

Agent Grayson Hall’s number-one priority is to catch those responsible for the day’s act of terror. All evidence is pointing to Taryn and her new husband. But his instinct tells him her pleas of innocence are genuine. Is her naiveté just for show, or could she truly be another victim of a master scheme, possibly linked to the software she recently developed for her company?

With both their lives and reputations on the line, and the media outcry for justice increasing with each passing minute, Taryn and Grayson have no choice but to trust one another . . . and pray they can uncover the truth before they become two more casualties.  AMAZON 5 STARS

Loved, Loved, Loved this story!  Awesome main characters, Awesome plot and it was a high intensity story. Twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat.  There was also a really a good supporting cast of secondary people both good and evil.
Taryn was duped.  It takes her a while to recognize it and when she does she can't believe how thoroughly it has been done.  At one point, she even concedes that although her IQ is off the charts and she's very creative, her street smarts just aren't that developed.   She has developed some pretty good physical protection moves that WILL help her more than once in this story.  I couldn't help but like her and get drawn into the story quickly.  Even from the first chapter it starts out pretty dramatically.  And there are several mysteries that must be worked out before this book finishes.

Two words describe Agent Hall..good guy.  When Taryn first meets him, she meets the tough investigator part of him.  He's not going to let a pretty face with a great mind derail him.  Not only because of having made that mistake before but because this was deadly serious. 

I will say that some of the science of the book went over my head but I just let it and enjoyed the people and the action of the book.  Never a dull moment when it came to the action.

For those who want to know God, is a part of the story.  Both of the main characters are believers although Taryn admits she allowed science to take a higher place for a while. It's almost like she is back to the beginning in regards to her faith. For those who don't want to read books that have God in it, I hope you re-think it.  Why?  Because the book is just that outstanding.

There will be a major twist at the end of the book.  Well placed and well worked out.  

BOOK REVIEW- STILL LIFE (BOOK #2 Chesapeake Valor Series) by Dani Pettrey

Blacklisted in the photography business over a controversial shot, Avery Tate answered an ad for a crime scene photographer. She expected to be laughed at, but crime scene analyst Parker Mitchell hired her outright--and changed her life. But six months ago, when her feelings for Parker became too strong, she left his employ to sort out her heart. 

Now, for the first time, Avery is facing the world that rejected her to attend the gallery opening of a photography exhibit and support her best friend, who modeled for the show. But the only image of her friend is a chilling photo of her posing as if dead--and the photographer insists he didn't take the shot. Worse, her friend can't be found. She immediately calls Parker for help. As Avery, Parker, and his friends in law enforcement dig into the mystery, they find themselves face-to-face with a relentless and deadly threat.  AMAZON 4 STARS


Another edge of your seat story in this series by Dani Pettrey. Great main characters and a supporting cast of interesting people.  Even if you haven't read any of the other ones, you should still be able to read this one on its own.

I have read one other book in this series and it made me want to read Avery and Parker's story.  The other book hinted that Avery had plenty of secrets in her past that she didn't want anyone to know.  She was ashamed and especially didn't want Parker to know what she had done before she came to Christ.  Yes, there is a theme of faith in God to this story but there is also a pretty good story there too.  
There is a couple of mysteries that need to be solved and the team of friends  are working them as fast as they can.  There is plenty of surprises, action.  About the time you think you know what is going on a big twist comes at you.  One of the mysteries has to do with Avery's missing friend, Skylar.  And that journey along had it's share of twists until you get the truth of what is going on.
Parker had his own terrifying memories of a young love lost violently.  
He exudes Irish charm and is top notch when it comes to his profession.  He is also a fiercely loyal friend to those around him.  He keeps running from his feelings about Avery.  Well, that only works for a while.  Until it doesn't. 
I also want to say that Avery had some mad skills when it came to providing her own physical self-defense.  And that is going to come in handy in this story too.  She is also top of the field when it comes to photography.  She was excellent when it came to helping Parker at crime scenes.  But she ran away because she figured she was never going to get anywhere with Parker romantically.    But as you read you see that they ARE headed for their own H.E.A.  
My final words are that I really enjoyed this story!

BOOK REVIEW- SLATE by Stella Marie Alden

She woke a part of me I thought long dead...

"She pretty?"
"F###, yeah."
"Single?"
"Uh-huh."
"She into you?"
"Think so."
"So, what's the problem?"
"I kissed her."


I specifically told the agency I wanted a male dog walker. She's way too leggy. That's the problem. And young. And naïve. I got no business letting her stay in my guesthouse, especially the way my blood runs south whenever she's near. In another lifetime, I might've pursued her but I suck at relationships.

Unfortunately, my dog found a clue to a murder and she's involved. If I don't protect her, who will?

Lilac
There's something about Mr. Sexy and that over-the-top kiss. I've never felt anything so consuming, so mind-blowing. Then, he apologized. Now, he's pissed. What the h3ll? How had my heart become so invested in so short a time?   AMAZON   4 STARS

Note: Steaming hot scenes, two wounded souls, and a slobbery puppy. HEA guaranteed.


Yes, the book blurb should have warned me how HOT this book was going to be.  Even so, I was a bit unprepared for just how in my face it was going happen at the very beginning.  Almost immediately there was a lot of  mental sexual foreplay. Wow, I don't think I've ever put a phrase like that together before. Oh yes and there were some surprises and nakedness too.  It was a dramatic start to the book.  It even had me wonder at first if there was going to be any kind of plot but take a breath, there is.  
But I'm not downplaying the main characters who have some pretty painful things in their past.  I'm not going to tell you what their pain is, as you read the story it all begins to unfold. They are very interesting indeed. 
Slate was so endearing when you got to know him.  He was SO over his head when it came to women.  And he wasn't afraid to admit it.  Well, he admitted it to a close man friend at least.  His boss and friend was the first one he called trying to figure out what he was doing wrong getting to know Lilac.   Because of that he bounced between being this grouchy, alpha  type guy and then being sweet to Lilac. No wonder she was confused at times. 
Lilac.  Boy, she did have her share of grief just over her name alone. I liked the name and I liked her. She was a fighter even when it was hard to get people to believe her.  At times, it seems that Lilac just has some unsettling things happen to her.  And this latest caper with Dog, is going to innocently throw her right into the middle of danger.  But at least Slate is on her side.   
There was humor in the story that made me smile a time or two.  After they catch two low IQ thugs breaking into his house, that whole conversation between Lilac and Slater made me grin.
So final words.  There will be attraction, a prickly friendship, then sex.  Secrets shared, walking the dog and sex.  Tenderness, protectiveness, and sex.  Danger, mysteries and once again sex.  All working their way to that H.E.A that was promised and is delivered. 

I have not read The CEO's Redemption, so I was not familiar with any of the people from that book.  But this was an easy to read book all on it's own.  I will say that I took a look at the other book and it sounded pretty interesting too. 


I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.

Best Christian Reggae Gospel Mix || Jah Praise 1 || Praise and Worship |...

Rescued Horses Running Free at the Duchess Sanctuary!

BOOK REVIEW- BIG SKY SECRETS Book 6 of Parable, Montana Series (The Parable Series) by Linda Lael Miller

Self-made tycoon Landry Sutton heads to Hangman Bend's Ranch to sell his land to his brother Zane. Though he's got cowboy in his blood, Landry plans to return to city life before the dust even settles on his boots. Of course, he didn't count on falling for Big Sky Country…or Ria Manning. 

Ria's starting to settle into country life herself…until she has a close encounter of the terrifying kind with a buffalo. Turns out the peeping monster belongs to the cowboy next door—and he has her running even more scared than his bison. She wants a home where the buffalo don't roam, and the men don't either. Could Landry's homecoming be her heart's undoing?  AMAZON 3.5 STARS

While I liked this book I can't say that it was a favorite out of all of the books in this series.
Both main characters were different even from each other; way different. And the author did the almost impossible. She had me end up actually liking Landry Sutton! I felt that was going to be almost impossible because he came off as a snooty, arrogant, superior, jerk in the previous book. And in the beginning he kind of starts out the same way. I thought, "oh no, here we go." But as I kept reading more redeeming qualities did show up. , Highbridge, his butler is one of them. The fact that no self-respecting cowboy would HAVE a butler seems like another snooty thing that he would do. But there is a good reason why he does and it has nothing to do with being superior like I thought. Highbridge does add his own kind of flavor to the book too. Of course, in the beginning Landry is ALL greenhorn and sticks out like a sore thumb. And for a while doesn't even try to fit in.
I liked Ria but more than once I just wanted to say, "Grow a backbone" when it came to her sister, Meredith. Of course, then I did begin to see that
happen more. I understand that she was made to feel less than and an outsider in her own family. All except from her niece Quinn who shows up in the story in an unusual way.
I thought it was kind of odd that you felt that she didn't really interact all that much with the people of Parable. There were snippets here and there were some of the people showed up from the previous books but it wasn't that much really.
The romance I wasn't really feeling it as strongly as in some of the other books. Although, once again this was another couple who basically almost "hated" each other on sight. Well, not exactly but that is what they thought as first.
I still give the author points for her usual writing style that I really enjoyed. Her descriptive phrases were not overdone to my way of thinking. But they are peppered through out the book. And they made me smile every time they did. Like when they were looking for the best bronco bucking horses for the rodeo. They were trying to identify the best buckers, "the ones with go-to-hell wired right into their DNA and a marked determination to launch any cowboy who tried to ride them into outer space". Who doesn't get that? Yes,descriptive phrases that added some smiles and fun to the book. Well, anyway I liked them.
You just know Jess, the "boys" father is going to show up sooner or later and he does once again here. That part felt kind of rushed to me in the end.
In the end with this being Book #6 and maybe the last one, I was left with a feeling of things being unfinished. A slight disappointment.

The unseen work of fashion photographer Tom Palumbo

This was a work of art

BOOK REVIEW- BIG SKY WEDDING Book #5 in the Parable Series by Linda Lael Miller

Wedding bells are ringing in Parable, Montana, but Brylee Parrish hasn't enjoyed the sound since being jilted at the altar by Hutch Carmody. She's over Hutch now, and running a multimillion-dollar business is challenging enough for this country gal. So she should avoid falling head-over-boot-heels for A-list actor Zane Sutton. He's come home to his rodeo roots, but Hollywood lured him away once and just might again. Yet everything about him, from his easy charm to his concern for his young half brother, seems too genuine to resist….

Zane didn't come to Parable for love—but count on a spirited woman to change a jaded cowboy's mind. Problem is, Brylee's not convinced he's here to stay. Good thing he's determined to prove to her, kiss by kiss, that she's meant to be his bride.AMAZON 4 stars


Although I liked this book I was hoping for a tad bit more when it came to the romance between the two.  And a little bit more development when it came to the relationship between them would have be nice.  Other than Brylee's attraction then her sometimes the kiss and cut and run.  I totally understand why she was so skittish.
It did seem like the story was more abut Zane and his life.  That is something that I do understand to a certain degree because we don't know him.  The introduction of his twelve year old brother Nash did add to the story. That was one tough life that the kid had so far. Nash and Zane barely know each other, which makes things kind of awkward when Nash lands at his door. Another brother, Landry sounds kind of rich and snotty although he grew up poor right alongside of Zane. Sounds like Zane and Landry have a lot of issues to settle.  They sure know how to set each other off.  So far I didn't like him, although maybe he can redeem himself in his story which is the next book. 

Another person who is introduced in this book is Zane's flashy, take-charge housekeeper Cleo.  When I say flashy, I mean that she likes bold, colorful clothes.  She kind of reminds me of Opal from other books in this series.  Although Opal was a force of nature, Cleo was even a step above that. Maybe a gale force personality, in a good way.  Her clothes were loud and so was she. And organized to the max.  All that and a big heart too. She was a lot of fun to read about.

I noticed that this book like the others has more than one dog in it.  Each with a personality that shows through whether they have been raised since puppy-hood or rescued in one way or another.
There is a steamy scene or two (which I forgot to mention about the other books) and of course the required H.E.A.  I do love those. 

BOOK REVIEW- BIG SKY SUMMER-Parable, Montana Series, Book 4 by Linda Lael Miller

With his father's rodeo legacy to continue and a prosperous spread to run, Walker Parrish has no time to dwell on wrecked relationships. But country-western sweetheart Casey Elder is out of the spotlight and back in Parable, Montana. And Walker can't ignore that his "act now, think later" passion for Casey has had consequences. Two teenageconsequences!

Keeping her children's paternity under wraps has always been part of Casey's plan to give them normal, uncomplicated lives. Now the best way to hold her family together seems to be to let Walker be a part of it--as her husband of convenience. Or will some secrets--like Casey's desire to be the rancher's wife in every way--unravel, with unforeseen results?

AMAZON  4.5 STARS

I really liked this one a lot.  It's probably one of my favorites of the series so far. Great main characters and with such an interesting history.  Not your usual run of the mill history either.  Plenty of secrets that only one or two people know about.  And they sure have kept those two secrets really clamped down for so many years.  it wasn't all done the way that Walker would have liked but things are about to hit the fan.  
Shane and Clare add a lot to the story as Casey's kids who will soon have a lot more to deal with than just be celebs kids. 
The emotions run high and are well done. As Walker yearns for Casey and has quietly stood by and just watched things happen over the years.  That is not his normal style,  but it was the best he could do until now.  It seemed like Casey held all the cards until that shifted.
Casey was wildly attracted to Walker and always had been but she was also running scared about that too.  She was a mighty talent in one tiny, wild, red-haired body and she had worked hard over the years.  
It was great to re-connect with people from the previous books and I still get a kick out of Opal.  
This series kind of reminds me of some of Susan Mallery's books in the Fool's Gold Series.  And those I really enjoyed. These books in the Parable Series are with a western flair and even deeper when it comes to telling the stories.  There is plenty of drama to go with the action. 
Ah, and don't forget the H.E.A.'s.

BOOK REVIEW- BIG SKY RIVER BOOK #3 The Parable Series by Linda Lael Miller

Sheriff Boone Taylor has his job, friends, a run-down but decent ranch, two faithful dogs and a good horse. He doesn't want romance—the widowed Montanan has loved and lost enough for a lifetime. But when a city woman buys the spread next door, Boone's peace and quiet are in serious jeopardy.

With a marriage and a career painfully behind her, Tara Kendall is determined to start over in Parable. Reinventing herself and living a girlhood dream is worth the hard work. Sure, she might need help from her handsome, wary neighbor. But life along Big Sky River is full of surprises…like falling for a cowboy-lawman who just might start to believe in second chances.  AMAZON 4 STARS


Great characters and that includes the main characters and those of the supporting cast.  There will be plenty of emotion and activity in this community.  I liked how no matter what the people of Parable all came together.
It was fun catching up with people whose story I had read in the other books prior to this one.  Opal was another one who just seemed to gather everyone under her wings like chicks.  It didn't matter how old or how young they were either. It was even fun to see her finding a love of her own too.
There are children in this story too.  Boone's two young son's who have been basically farmed out to his sister and her husband for a few years.  Boone fell apart when his wife died after a long illness.   And he's still trying to pull himself out of that pit. He has done enough when it comes to his job but he's put little or no effort into much of anything else. 

Tara, the uptown city girl is now a chicken rancher.  That brought some funny moments.  She also loves two of her teenage twin girls that she raised as a step-mother for almost all of their life.  That came to a screeching halt when she divorces their father James.  He is a jerk of the first order, with the title of Doctor before his name or not.  Tara has no rights as their former step-mother but they definitely love her and James resents that too.  And he isn't against hurting Tara by cutting off almost all contact between the girls and her.  Of course, it wasn't about caring about the girls, it was all about image. 
There are other things going on as well but not in a way that makes it overwhelming to keep up.
Will someone PLEASE do something about that Deputy McQuillan?  He just keep landing on his feet.  He has a promotion of sorts.  Well at least Boone no longer has to have him on his staff.  Ah, well maybe the next book.  

Prophetic Words for Intercessors Pressing Into the Next Level

BOOK REVIEW- THE HIGHLANDER'S PRINCESS BRIDE by Vanessa Kelly

In Vanessa Kelly’s enchanting series, three young women descended from royalty overcome their scandalous beginnings to win the hearts of the ton’s most eligible men . . .
 
The illegitimate daughter of the Prince Regent might be expected to pursue various dubious professions. Actress, perhaps, or artist’s model. Even courtesan. Victoria Knight, however, has become a governess—a respectable choice, until she travels to Scotland to meet her new charges. The younger brothers of Nicholas Kendrick, Earl of Arnprior, aren’t children at all. They’re brawny, wild Highland men. As for the Earl, he’s handsome, guarded, and far too compelling . . . especially for a woman hiding a dark secret.
 
Nick needs a proper teacher to transform his unmarriageable brothers—and a sensible, 
straight-laced wife for himself. Miss Knight seems to fit the bill on both counts. But he soon discovers there is more to Victoria than he thought. It’s not just her notorious origins, or the danger that’s followed her all the way to Scotland. It’s the fiery loyalty beneath that sedate façade. This, the real Victoria, is the woman Nick is starting to desire so desperately. And what an earl wants, he’ll use every seductive means to get . . .AMAZON 4 STARS
. 
A good story with some good main characters.  And some really wild Scots.  I enjoyed it. The book blurb wasn't kidding about that.  Also add in one wily, often unpleasant grandfather who has no time with Englishmen or women.  Too bad, Victoria is one.  But she may be slight in physical body she is but she is strong in determination.  And she's willing to go toe to toe with Nick's grandfather.  All the while still being the perfect lady, sort of.  
The scrapes that the men of the family get into has Nick almost pulling his hair out.  And the chaos is wearing him down. There is plenty of chaos and plenty of men to deal with.  There is also plenty of emotion and some yelling going on.  Also quite a bit of humor as well. 
The romance between Nick and Victoria develops in a believable way.   It happens over time as they begin to see the good things in each other.  Of course Victoria is trying to stay on the sidelines because of her station in life and the secret that she has been told to keep.  Yes, that will bite her in the butt and it does later..for a while at least.

There were plenty of interesting people in the book and that included, the 2 younger brothers of Nick's.   There is also some looks into problems of several of the other brothers as well.
I will say that a time or two the story seemed to slow down a bit but it still kept me reading. 

There is a surprise and twist at towards the end and a H.E.A. Epilogue.  But of course there will be danger and a near miss before we get there.

I also want to say what an attractive eBook cover this is.

BOOK REVIEW- GOOD NEWS FOR A CHANGE by Matt Mikalatos

Imagine an atheist sending you regular prayer requests. Or your coworker grabbing you by the arm and asking you to stay late at work to talk about God just a bit longer. When Jesus talked about the Good News, people ran to him.

We should expect the same response. Good News for a Change is about working together with Jesus to share the gospel in ways unique to each person’s situation.

You will enjoy evangelism because it is a fun, deeply personal, community and person-oriented way to connect with people. You’ll be energized and focused on helping people discover why Jesus is good news for them.   AMAZON 5 STARS


I have to admit that the picture on the front of this book caught my eye.  So did the subtitle: How to talk to anyone about Jesus. It was quirky and fun and I was hoping that the author's approach to so many of the so called "formula's" was different.  They just don't work for me. Maybe it's time to put more fun in it, it doesn't have to be a drudgery.  

And as I read the Introduction I began to see more clearly some of the problems with the formulas.  I liked how he gave illustrations of how we approach people like high pressure salesmen and why it usually doesn't work with people.  And we end up feeling like failures, taking all the pressure of "getting people saved" all on ourselves. God wasn't standing over us with harshness like an unkind manager. It's time to take the "sting" out of evangelism and co-operate WITH God.  And spread the good news in multiple different personal ways.

He also showed different examples of things a lot of us might say.  Like, "you are taking drugs, sleeping with your girlfriend and you need to get saved".  He made a great point when he said, where is the good news in that for someone unsaved?  That stuck with me and still does.  Maybe it's time for a new approach and new way of looking at things.  I've been hearing the phrase, "it's time to get out of the box", a lot lately from all different sources. And this felt like this book is another perfect example of that.

I can easily see what he means when he says that he didn't get nervous about telling good news but he does get excited.  He might get nervous about "the gospel" but not about good news.  So easy to understand that. 

Something that I have been noticing more is that so many people do NOT believe that there is a Heaven or a Hell. So that it is almost a non-issue to most people.  That makes it pretty much ineffective to most.  Most people, especially the younger people want to know what is so good about Jesus NOW and what he can do NOW. Why do they need him now?  There are serious moments in this book as well because people are searching for real answers to some tough problems.   I'm glad that the author addressed that too.


At the end of each chapter there are a few Reflection Questions and some Exercises.  I've already put at least one or two of the ideas in the Exercise section to use.  This is going to take time because it is a process.  Most likely I will be reading sections of this book over and over. 

NavPress has provided me  with a complimentary copy of this book.