BOOK REVIEW- AN AUTUMN IN PARIS by Alix Nichols

Because of Audrey Hepburn, I have foolishly…

a) bought into the whole “Paris is always a good idea” thing without any offscreen evidence,
b) uprooted my son and left my bittersweet memories behind,
c) allowed Thomas—the handsome, caring, way-out-of-my-league vet—to disrupt the humdrum life I had self-prescribed for my Broken Heart Syndrome.

Behind his easy smile and swoon-worthy pecs, Thomas conceals an open wound. No matter how hot his kisses or how genuine his affection, he’s still reeling. He can’t move on.

And I can’t risk falling for him. I have a child to raise—a preteen boy who needs his mom to be all there. 

But as autumn strips the trees of their leaves, falling for Thomas is exactly what I do. Throwing caution to the wind, I dare to hope for a future with him…

…until the past comes knocking.

Can we handle it or will it break us forever?


There are three different divided sections in this book.  It beginnings with Part 1 Daniela who is often called Dana.  Part 2 is the voice of Thomas; his point of view.  There is also a Part 3- which is BOTH of them each sharing their P.O.V.'s back and forth.  I found that was different but I did like it.  

Dana's son, Liviu had such an unusual name.  Well at least to me an American reader.  It also caused me to wonder about what the right pronunciation of his name was. And so I went and searched it and came up with several choices.   Liviu also has a dog; a fluff ball named Baloo who helps introduce Dana and Thomas originally.  Dana left quite the first impression.....*sigh how embarrassing and surprising.  
Thomas was quite the guy.  He was funny, loyal to a fault and he was a softie when it came to both animals and people.  He is a regular "Marshmallow Man". 
 The relationship between Thomas and Dana was being slowly built but not in a way that was painfully slow.  As a reader, they exposed me to differing cultures, and some slang in languages.  It was a fun trip and I also ended up feeling like I had taken a romantic European trip from their adventure.  I also felt like the emotional parts of the story was handled well and felt realistic.  But not only was there emotions but the story made me smile more than once.  Some of that humor was provided by Liviu but Dana was no slouch when it came to witty humor. 
I really liked that Liviu was part of this story because he also added so much.  His interactions with Dana and Thomas and even his grandmother were an enjoyable, believable thing.  So suited to his age and you got a pretty good look into his personality.  

Manon, a woman friend of Dana's adds some color and humor to the story.  She was a great friend. She also added a HUGE misunderstanding on the part of Thomas in the beginning.  It makes me smile again just remembering it. 
I thoroughly enjoyed Dana's Romanian mother, Ioana, the times that she showed up in the story. She was kind of flamboyant in a good way. I think Thomas put it best.  He realized that the way she dressed matched her personality.  That was so discerning  of him and kind too.  

Yes, the main characters do get together for world rocking sex.  And of course that is before the past shows up to rock their worlds in an unexpected not quite as good way. 
Epilogue anyone?  Oh yes, I always want one of those.  And Daniela provides a good one from her P.O.V.  

It was kind of nostalgic to have some time spent at La Boheme since I have read some of the other books by Alix Nichols that featured it.


I just have to add how attractive I thought the eBook cover is.


I voluntarily read an Advanced  Reader Copy of this book and these are my honest thoughts about it.

BOOK REVIEW- KISS ME AT CHRISTMAS (Playful Brides) by Valerie Bowman

Bow Street Runner Daffin Oakleaf abhors Christmas. Carol singing and holiday cheer only remind him of a dark time. When a close friend calls on him for help, Daffin is happy to capitalize on the distraction. But when he learns the lovely Lady Regina is the one in danger, he’s to become bodyguard to the captivating woman...

Regina has one mission: to find a night of passion in the arms of a gentleman. Considered firmly on the shelf, Regina has given up on marriage—but that doesn’t mean she wants to be denied the pleasure married ladies experience. Daffin has long captured her    attention…and when a threat calls him to her side, the sparks between them ignite. But how can a hired bodyguard find his way into Regina’s noble heart?   AMAZON 3 STARS

This book set a good foundation for the main characters and they both were likable.  The only problem for me was that it was such a slow moving story.  Nothing much happens except for a few things until I was more than half way through the book.  Some of what happened included the tension, flirtation between Daffin and Regina.    And there was at least one bold moment between the two that later caused some awkwardness between them for a while.  
There is at least two other interesting supporting people in the story.  That would be Grimaldi (Grim) and his wife Nichole.  They were a married love match who were family to Regina.  Regina also wanted to marry for love but if she couldn't have that she at least wanted to have passion before she was pushed into a loveless match. 
Lady Delilah, who was unconventional  and her parrot Miss Adeline add some humor and an unexpected twist to help find the villains.  
Around Chapter twenty-nine the action really starts to gear up and things start to really move all the way to the end.  And the story did end in a good way, well for almost everyone.  Not so much for the villains.  

I voluntarily read an Advanced Readers Copy of this book via Netgalley and this is my honest opinion of it.  

BOOK REVIEW- FIRST EARL I SEE TONIGHT by Anna Bennett

An heiress with a daring proposal. An earl who’s determined to resist her. And a love that just might be written in the stars, in First Earl I See Tonight by Anna Bennett.

Recently jilted by his fiancée, David Gray, Earl of Ravenport is not in the market for a wife. Even if Gray didn’t have his hands full renovating his crumbling country house, it would take more than a bold marriage proposal from a headstrong young beauty to thaw his frozen heart. Gray is confident that spending a week at his ramshackle estate will change her mind about marriage, but every passionate moment he spends with her tempts him to change his…

A talented artist, Miss Fiona Hartley desperately needs her dowry money to pay off a blackmailer set on ruining her sister. The handsome earl seems a sensible choice for a husband…if only she can convince him that romance will play no part. But marrying in name only may prove difficult for Fiona. Gray can’t help but be dazzled by her genuine warmth. Yet as their feelings deepen, Fiona’s deadline looms. Will her secrets destroy them, or is true love their final destiny?  AMAZON 3.5 STARS

This was a charming, quirky story, with an edge of mystery.  Oh and yes there is going to be some sex involved in the book as well, for those who want to know.  And as you can tell from the book blurb Fiona was an unconventional lady.  And she continued on in that way throughout the book.  She was also talented, artistic and kind.  Someone who loved her sister Lily, who was not a sister by birth but by the heart.  Fiona put so many people's happiness and well being ahead of herself.
Gray had a lot of emotional wounds that caused him to harden his heart.  The latest emotional snag had been his fiancee dumping him. He was a good conflicted main character.  One who really loved his grandmother. 
One thing that I didn't care for so much was the diary idea that Lily came up with and pushed her sister and their friend Sophie into.  
I can see how it could come about and I considered their young age but still didn't care for it that much.  I know it was part of the story but I didn't enjoy that part as much as I thought I might.

There is a twist of a surprise when it comes to finding out who the blackmailer is and just how far that person is prepared to go.  I didn't see that one coming.  It also came about a bit earlier than I expected but the timing came at a good point.  I say that because I figured once the "who" was known that would be the end of that.  But not so and the story really starts to get even more interesting and with more action.  
I did like how the story ended and I wondered what Lily's future holds. 
On a side note I do want to say what a beautiful and appropriate cover was chosen for this eBook.  I say appropriate because it matches some of the elements of the book and I really liked that a lot.  

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

Ray Hughes - The Symphony of Heaven

Michael W. Smith - Surrounded (Fight My Battles)

BOOK REVIEW- THE BUSHWICK SERIES by Stella Marie Alden

Three men determined to protect, three women in trouble, three stories of passion and adventure sure to keep you up all night...

Best-sellers now available in one boxed set!


Slate

"What's her name?"
"Who?"
"Your dog? Its name?"
"How the heck would I know? I call it Dog."
"Well does Dog bite?"
"I don't think so. Didn't bite me."
"That's not funny, Mr. Slate."
"It's Slate, just Slate."

I specifically told the agency I wanted a male dog walker. The woman they sent is way too leggy, too naive, and too d@mn pretty. I got no business letting her stay in my guesthouse, especially the way my blood runs south whenever she's near.


In My Custody

"I, ah, don't do long term. Okay?"
"Slow down, the only thing I'm proposing is a nice meal and a glass of wine."
"Riiight. Followed by bed."
"I'm willing to put out as long as you respect me in the morning."
"Maybe I'll just insist on an expensive dinner and leave you hanging."
"Oh honey, it won't be."


Andrew Quinn
A few years back, my gorgeous client captured the world's attention when her billionaire husband died and left her penniless. Refusing charity, she's fired me more times than I can count but I don't give a d@mn. I'm keeping her safe.

Sienna
My ex was a cheap, conniving SOB with ties to the mob. So, when I mistakenly capture his very-alive voice on a recording, I know I'm in deep sh*t. Mr. Sexy-Suit offers his services for free but if something sounds too good to be true... I sure as h3ll won't go down that road again.


Jack

I was born to protect and know how to turn on the charm. I love playing poker, writing, and the rush of adrenaline. I'm looking for someone who likes to laugh, calls me out on my bulls**t, and won't give up on me.

"Now you." I hand her the tablet.

Are you looking for someone who can psycho-analyze you, a bit of a nutcase herself? Are you built like a bodyguard, love kids, and write mysteries? If so, text me your favorite flavor of ice cream. We may be compatible. No bigamists need answer.

Gorgeous Dr. Smythe has an office on Fifth Ave and I'm her self-appointed bodyguard. I knew her trip to Utah was a bad idea so I invited myself along. My focus should've been on keeping the shrink safe but every time she touched me, I lost it. Something about her naïve innocence, coupled with her brilliant mind, captivated me. Then, when I let her in, I realized we both were damaged, maybe beyond repair. <

High intensity, stand-alone, novels with graphic language, no cheating, and smoking hot, happily-ever-afters!

AMAZON 4 STARS


Since I  first read each of these books before and it was separately, I am also going to break down each book like it's done in the book blurb.

First off- Slade
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.

Next- In My Custody
This book had good main characters, although I have to say in the beginning I began to wonder about Sienna. She was kind of a ditz at times and I wasn't sure I was going to like her all that much. More than once I thought I just wanted to shake her. How many chances is she going to take with her life? Common sense? I wasn't sure how much of that she had. But she also had some charming moments too.
Andrew, was kind of a surprise. He wasn't perfect, he had a few flaws but he was good at his job. That is he is good at it when he get his client, Sienna to listen. Their first meeting was really different and had so humor to it even though she was in serious trouble. And is Andrew the stuffed suit that on the outside he seems to appear to be? No, I don't think so. 
It had some good secondary people in this book who are involved in the danger that was in the story. There was a few unexpected twists towards the end of the book. 
While I can't say this was a favorite book, it did enjoy it. I did give it 3.5 Stars on Amazon by including that in the title. 

I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book.

And last is - Jack

A good tense story with great main characters.  Both Jack and the good doctor, Blakely (Blake) have had quite the roller-coaster childhood.  Both totally different but still totally dysfunctional all the same.  It's one of the reasons that Blake went into the profession that she did.  Oh, she's good at it but she is still trying to work out how to deal with her own emotions.   Especially when it comes to dealing with men.

Blake wants, no needs to know the truth about her sister and she puts herself in considerable danger more than once.

Jack was attracted to Blake right from the get go and when they first met it made for quite the dramatic start to the book.  Jack is also good at his job.  He is tough, skilled and also a born protector. His skills saved both of them more than once.

When Blake confronts her past, it really makes danger come to the forefront and the drama it causes is well done.  Be prepared for a surprise or two concerning that. 

Also be prepared for a misunderstanding or two between Blake and Jack because come on, we are talking about two damaged people trying to wade through emotions.

Yes, there will be hot sex between the two of them and a H.E.A. as promised.   They also have a supporting cast of some good people to help them get there to that H.E.A.  

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

I will say that this set makes for a very good way to present all three of the stories.  

BOOK REVIEW- WHEN YOU GOT A GOOD THING (The Misfit Inn Book 1) by Kait Nolan

She thought she could never go home again. Kennedy Reynolds has spent the past decade traveling the world as a free spirit. She never looks back at the past, the place, or the love she left behind—until her adopted mother’s unexpected death forces her home to Eden’s Ridge, Tennessee.

Deputy Xander Kincaid has never forgotten his first love. He’s spent ten long years waiting for the chance to make up for one bone-headed mistake that sent her running. Now that she’s finally home, he wants to give her so much more than just an apology.

Kennedy finds an unexpected ally in Xander, as she struggles to mend fences with her sisters and to care for the foster child her mother left behind. Falling back into his arms is beyond tempting, but accepting his support is dangerous. He can never know the truth about why she really left. Will Kennedy be able to bury the past and carve out her place in the Ridge, or will her secret destroy her second chance?
AMAZON  5 STARS


What a great emotional story with great main characters.  Not only do the main characters have some pretty good depth so does the supporting cast of characters.  Kennedy's sisters are not easy as pie regular people either.  They all carry wounds, rejections and coping methods. Pru's might be a little bit more hidden but as much as she's more the peacemaker of the group, she still is not without her own hurts.
It was so cool how their mom Joan, adopted all of them and made them a family.  A family that is still stinging mad at what they see as Kennedy's unfeeling rejection of that very family, for years.  They see her as flighty, careless and someone who was going to be of very little help as they try to move on after Joan's death.  It cut her to the bone but it hurt even more that she couldn't defend herself with the truth of why she left and stayed that way.  But the truth will eventually come out and its quite the story.  
Kennedy wasn't a carbon copy of anyone else, she marched to her own drummer and that often caused her to be misunderstood.  It was so good to see though that she had so much to offer much of it coming from her travels as she grew up more on the road.
Xander always believed in Kennedy and he never got over her. He was such a great guy, an honorable man.  Someone though that did have flaws of course but not so many that overpowered who he really was.  And while Kennedy was one, he was someone who was there for the Reynolds family, time after time.  He cared about the family but it was also because of some guilt on his part for being the reason that Kennedy left.  They had a huge fight but as the story gets deeper, the reader gets to see whether that guilt was justified or not. 
There is so much more to the story so I will leave my review right here. Just know that long held secrets do get revealed.
Just a fun fact...On another book review that I did, "See you Again" I saw a quick look into this book.  I said it sounded so good that I wanted to read it. Imagine my surprise when I looked it up on Amazon and realized  I already had the book.  I'm so glad I did. 

BOOK REVIEW- SEE YOU AGAIN A Small Town Southern Romance (Wishful Romance Book 8) by Kait Nolan

A mother of the groom billionaire romance for the Wishful wedding of the year

Mayor Sandra Crawford has survived divorce. She's survived cancer. But she's not at all sure she'll survive the discovery that her town's billionaire philanthropist benefactor is actually the man she nearly left her husband for almost thirty years ago.

Gerald Peyton, III didn't fight for Sandy back in college--a decision he's regretted ever since. Now Trey's older, wiser, and determined to win the heart of the woman he's never forgotten.

When they wake up married in Vegas, Sandy chalks it up to a reckless mistake, but Trey's not willing to let her go so easily. Can he convince her to give their marriage a legitimate chance, or will she let him go for good this time?   AMAZON  4 STARS

As I began to read this story I thought, "Oh good, it's going to be a good, charming second chance story."  In a sweet charming town something like the town Fools Gold in the books by Susan Mallery.   Well, that would be a yes AND a no in answer to those thoughts.  
The town did have a small town feeling to it, where gossip is a mainstay but they also know how and WILL band together to have each others backs. But there was also more depth and emotion to the story than I was expecting.  All going on while Sandra was helping pull of her son's  wedding to Norah, who was another good character.  Problem after problem kept cropping up when it came to pulling off that wedding.  But it does also bring about the face to face between Trey and Sandra.  The book really did have more depth to it than I was expecting. 
Sandra has lived quite the hellish life at times but she also has quite a bit of love that surrounds her too.  Her son Cam is someone that she gave up so much of her own personal happiness for.  Happiness that had to do with her feelings for Gerald or Trey as she knows him as.  Her family surrounds her almost to the point of making her feel like they don't trust her judgement when it comes to men or personal decisions.  They didn't realize it till later but they just love her so much, it was overpowering to her at times. Her mother Helen added a bit of spunk to the story even though she only showed up a few times.  
Gerald/Trey moved on in his life after he lost Sandra but that doesn't mean he was happier.  But he did success financially, helping build up the family business even more prosperous than it already was.   He still  wondered about Sandra though, was there any future for them? 
There is an unexpected twist towards the end of the book which I thought was a nice touch.  All I will say is that it had to do with Sandra's ex husband.  
Do Trey and Sandra get their H.E.A.?  You betcha.  But it won't be all sunshine and roses to get there because look at all the baggage they have to work through? But it was worth it, I enjoyed the process.

I think I will be looking into some more stories in this series especially since there was a quick look into a couple of them at end of the book.  I've got my eye on "You were meant for me" Book #10.

BOOK REVIEW- NAVY SEAL RESCUER (Heroes for Hire #7) by Shirlee McCoy

After four years in prison for crimes she didn't commit, Catherine Miller just wants to lie low at her isolated farmhouse. But someone still thinks she's guilty—and should pay the ultimate price. Someone angry enough to spray-paint murderer on her home and attack her in broad daylight. Her neighbor, former navy SEAL Darius Osborne, vows to hunt down her predator. The handsome security contractor has as harrowing a past as Catherine's, and won't let anyone get too close. Yet with a cold-blooded killer on her trail, they'll get closer than either ever imagined.   AMAZON  5 STARS


This book was outstanding, emotional in a good way and amazingly good. The only thing that I didn't like was that it came to an end.   I felt like when everything was being wrapped up...no, not yet. Oh, the ending was good but like I said the edge of the seat adventure was over and I just wasn't ready.  Yes, there is a H.E.A. for Catherine and Darius but I don't think I'm giving that much away because it won't be easy getting there.  But it was enjoyable to read.  
Catherine had so much against her even after being exonerated and released from prison.  The poor woman just couldn't seem to catch a break.  She lost four years of her life and the precious time with her beloved grandmother who raised her.  Eileen was one spunky, loving grandmother who was fighting against  cancer.   She wasn't going to win it but Catherine wanted every minute there was to be with her.  Eileen was one direct woman and there are some secrets that are going to be revealed.  And they are dangerous ones of course.  

Darius had wounds of his own but it seems like he also had a very generous heart as well.   Even though he was on a healing vacation, he was quick to step up and help Catherine when she needed it.  Even though it went against his plans, he was a steady good guy.   Catherine was not quick to trust because of all the betrayals in her life but Darius just kept proving that he was trustworthy.  When he gave his word, he kept it.  The relationship that develops between Darius and Catherine is a good one even though there are times Catherine is afraid to move forward and get hurt again.  But she is working towards an "Aha" moment when it comes to her feelings about Darius.  He didn't take quite as long to realize how he felt about her but he just kept showing up and was patient with her.  

If I wanted to use another word to describe this book it would be that it had lots of "action."   Twists, turns and more danger almost around every corner.   You could almost feel Catherine's weariness right along with her.  The author keeps the tension of the story going really well.  
There is also a touch of Catherine re-connecting with her faith in God but it doesn't overtake the story. 
An Epilogue with  more details of what happens next for Catherine and Darius would have been nice.   But at least the reader could see that they would be together. 

BOOK REVIEW- LUCKY GIRL (Lucky Alphas Book 2) by Mallory Crowe

Luck has never been on Harper's side, but everything will change when she meets the one man she can't control. He could be the best thing that's ever happened to her or destroy everything she's ever worked for. Either way, the game will be fun...
AMAZON 4 STARS



I really enjoyed this book and I liked both main characters.  Sparks fly between Harper and Lucas right from the moment they met.   It was irritation on Harper's part and quite a bit of over confidence on Lucas's part.  At least that is what Harper would say if you asked her.  Harper was one woman who was "able to take care of herself" type person and it wasn't all hype either.
This story had more than one dangerous mystery to be solved as the story goes on. That definitely kept me totally involved from beginning to end.  So did the feisty relationship developing between the two main characters. 
One of my favorite statements that made me smile was when Harper said that trading insults was her happy place.   It was also something that Harper and Lucas did well.  He thought he would hate that about her but found it quite enjoyed it.  She was one of the few women who went toe to toe with him and he got a kick out of it.  He found that he liked the challenge.  
It's a good thing this book was named Lucky Girl, because if it was mainly only about Lucas the title "Unlucky Guy", would fit him.  He just seemed to fall into one set up and betrayal after another.  But having met Harper and trying to solve problems, things are looking up for him. 
Just letting you know that this book has adult language, sex-talk and action.
And what a refreshing way to set up an Epilogue, it really had me going until what was going on was revealed.   It just added another surprise to the mix and I liked that.  
There is another book called Lucky Stud coming in January 2019.  It follows Leo West and from the quick blurb on it, it looks like it's going to be a doozy.  I will be looking for that one when it comes out. 

I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions of it.

BOOK REVIEW- FOREVER IN LOVE- (Montana Brides, Book 2) by Leeanna Morgan

Amy Sullivan's life might have been lonely but it was safe, until she found a baby on her doorstep. With her alcoholic mother gone, and a five-month-old sister to look after, Amy has no choice but to give her sister what she never had - a family - and that means moving back to Montana and the only man she's ever loved.

Nathan Gray's life has turned upside down and the last person he wants to see is Amy Sullivan. Nine years earlier she left him faster than a howling nor'wester and now, burned and broken after a barn fire, he has even more reason to keep his distance. Only this time fate and a meddling family have other ideas and their lives are about to come crashing down. Right on top of each other.

If this is the first time you have read a Montana Brides story, you can easily read each book as a standalone. All of my series are linked. If you meet a character you like, they could be in another book! Happy reading.  AMAZON 3.5 STARS


Both Amy and Nathan had some major pain in their lives.  The one major difference was that at least Nathan had a loving, supportive family behind him.  Oh, yes there were many times when he wished that they would back off and not hover.  But he almost died from some  pretty serious injures.  Injuries that he is still in the process of recovering from.  I felt that the author did a good job of showing how realistically that affected him.  
Amy is used to looking after herself and had to do that from a very young age.  One of the bright spots in her life had been when she was fourteen and the Gray family had welcomed her into their circle.  They were the only example of what true family was like.   So many things had happened to her that she was very guarded and found it difficult to ask for help.  When the baby, Catherine came into her life, she was fiercely protective and wanted that little girl to have a better childhood than she had experienced.  
The push and pull of attraction between Amy and Nathan is still there.  
Nathan still cares for her but feels like it's just not safe to let her too close to him.  Amy knows how to run and she's fighting her attraction to Nathan. 
Baby Catherine and the Gray family add charm, and depth to the story. 
Each one of the Gray's already felt like Amy was part of their family and are eager to help her in any way that they can.  Nathan's sister Sally also adds a good punch of mischievousness and fun to the story.  
 The story does end with some surprises and a H.E.A. and was easy to read as a standalone story that was promised.  There were a few questions that I would have liked answered though.  As I look back, couldn't the author have touched on how the fire started?  I almost expected it to the added to Nathan's thoughts about how the burns and broken bones he got were his fault because of him doing something stupid.  Or was that only because he thought that he shouldn't have gone into the barn when it was burning?  That was never completely explained. 
The only other thing that I will say has to do with the pace of the book.  At times it felt kind of slower than I would have liked.  But if I look at it in a different way , it did help to show the slower pace of the beautiful country living vs the hectic pace of the larger cities.  The family feel did come through nice and clear.  

Prayer Worksheet to Resolve Brokenness Using Words of Knowledge

Prayer Worksheet to Resolve Brokenness Using Words of Knowledge

Checklist for Exploring Where Blessings and Curses Are Present in Your Life…

Checklist for Exploring Where Blessings and Curses Are Present in Your Life…

BOOK REVIEW- NABVAN (Warriors of Milisaria) (A Sc-Fi Alien Abduction Romance) by Celeste Raye

He was forced to guard the kidnapped human meant to be the king's wife,
but whose side was he really on?

Alexis Fisher wanted to work for NASA, but she wasn't treated as an equal due
to her young age and gender. In a desperate act of defiance, she became a mail
order bride for an alien species. On Arkani, a peaceful planet, there might have
been a chance to show her scientific skills. All bets were off when her spaceship
was captured by the warriors of Milisaria and the king chose her as a mate.

Nabvan was the king's second in command. He felt dishonored by the king's order
to act as a simple guard for the human female. Humans only interested him as
allies in war. But, this one began to get under his skin. She withstood cruelty and
pain in order to uphold her self-respect. In doing so, she gained his as well. 

Alexis didn't want to marry the king. He had far too many concubines already.
Her defiance brought out King Shene's cruel side. He had her beaten and starved.
Nabvan couldn't afford to show his displeasure to the king, but he also couldn't
allow the human to suffer. 

Would the mighty warrior defy his king for a mere human? Was Alexis worth
dying for?   AMAZON 3 STARS


I had mixed feelings on this one. This book had so much potential but it didn't feel like it hit all the marks.  It did leave me feeling like some things were missing and even at the end of the book it felt a bit the same. I don't want to give any of the plot away so I will just say, that there were some lingering questions that kind of got glossed over.
That said, Alexis and Nabvan were good main characters.  And their struggles was made very clear.  First struggle of course came with trying to communicate.  The world building could have been a bit deeper but to be honest, for a while Alexis was just trying to stay alive.  We did get to see inside their ranks, appearances and  some of their ways of thinking.
The book did come at the story with a few unexpected surprises, so that was something that I enjoyed.
And yes readers, there will be alien sex but it doesn't end up being the main focus.  

Cutting Back Perennials // Garden Answer

BOOK REVIEW- WANTED (The Marshals of Maverick County Book 6) by Delores Fossen

A woman he's never met is carrying his child in USA TODAY bestselling author Delores Fossen's The Marshals of Maverick County miniseries 

When U.S. marshal Wyatt McCabe tracks his target to a Texas ranch, he isn't the only one with Lyla Pearson in his sights. But Wyatt has a powerful reason for keeping the beautiful CSI director out of the line of fire—he may be the father of the child she's carrying. 

The mother-to-be doesn't know who to fear more—the gunmen surrounding her house, or the stranger claiming paternity of her in vitro baby. Holed up together at his family homestead, Lyla struggles to fight her attraction to the sinfully handsome lawman. But with a killer stalking them, it may tear their new family apart….AMAZON 4 STARS

This book had plenty of action and mysteries in it.  In fact, even the beginning chapter opened up right into some pretty dramatic action. 
Wyatt and Lyla were both good main characters who started out with some really big trust issues at first.  There was plenty of danger going on so they were right about  being cautious.  There is a romance that develops between them because of their attraction to each other.  But more focus was on the threats, danger and attacks against them and the family.  They were just trying to stay alive will they figured who was behind it all.  There were plenty of people to look at and also some false trails to sort out. 
Wyatt had a large family that included foster brothers who also were federal marshals.  You don't always see that happen in a book but it was handled well. 
One thing that I found a bit irritating was the overuse of the word, "Mercy" in the way someone responded to an emotional thought or action.  

The villain is found out, lives saved and a H.E.A. for Wyatt and Lyla.  What's not to like about that?

(Surrounded) Fight My Battles | Josh Baldwin | Bethel Church

BOOK REVIEW- WARRIORS OF MILLSARIA PREQUEL by Celeste Raye

The first spaceship was sent to seek life on alien planets. Off course and malfunctioning, it crashed on a planet of mighty warriors. The Milisarian Knights were conquerors of other worlds. Quinn, the sole survivor of the crash, had to face these warriors alone and unarmed. Surprisingly, her guard and ally, a Knight's reject, became her salvation.


This was a quick, enjoyable story.  I guess it could be said that it wasn't super deep but it did have a story-line with good world building and good main characters.  
I liked that there actually was a story and not just something written as an excuse for time after time of mindless sex.  

It also ended well and included an unexpected but believable twist. 


I received a copy of this book when I signed up for the author's Newsletter.  This is my honest opinion of it.  

Negative Thoughts Cost You Something | Draw The Faith Line | Kenneth Cop...

BOOK REVIEW- WORTH THE WAIT (The Guthrie Brothers) by Lori Foster

Ready or not…love will find a way.

Single dad Hogan Guthrie is getting his life back on track, and working as the “barbecue master” at a local café is just a temporary detour. He and restaurant owner Violet Shaw constantly butt heads…until one night they end up mingling other parts instead. Hogan thought he had the recipe for happiness all figured out. But loyal, carefree Violet is daring him to trust his impulses…and see just how sweet small-town living—and loving—can be.

Nathan Hawley traded his SWAT team credentials for a sheriff's badge, but a gorgeous new neighbor is shaking up his orderly life. Nathan has a hunch there's more to Brooklin Sweet than meets the eye—but given her caution about getting involved, he has his work cut out for him. Still, there's something about the elusive beauty Nathan can't walk away from—and helping her come to terms with her past might pave the way to the future they both secretly long for.   AMAZON  4 STARS

I liked this book and the fact that it was really about two different sets of "couples" working towards their own special romances.  It had some really good main characters.  Colt was another good one too and he was Hogan's son.   They had a really good father-son relationship and it was a pleasure to read about that.   Colt was a hard-working, honest, caring young man with many people that he cared for in the town.  And the people of the town of Clearbrook felt the same way about him.  

Hogan had got burned by his late wife and went a little bit crazy with women after her death.  No, not in any serious way but in a more like notches on the bedpost kind of way.  It wasn't something that he was proud of but he is over that now. He sure isn't looking for anything serious with any woman though.   Violet is someone that pulls on him though even when she is sassy with him and gives him a hard time. 
He liked it and would deny that to his dying breath.  I loved it when Violet nicknamed him Barbecue Master.
Violet wasn't hard to like at all.  She busted her butt to make her diner a success.  And she worked as hard as anyone, probably even harder.  I enjoyed the caring friendship between Colt and Violet.  You could almost feel it as you were reading.  That was well portrayed. 

Nathan was another well written character and I liked although he was kind of a macho guy, he was also sensitive and caring with Brooklin.  Oh, he was chasing her but he was also straight up with her. It made me smile when it different conversations, he would say..that was me talking as sheriff and this is me talking as an interested guy.  
Brooklin's past was a surprise but it was an interesting slant.  As much as she tried to be stand-offish with people, they just drew her in like family.  

The town has Advice Anonymous column in it's paper the Trickle that led to some humorous innuendo.  I suspected who the author of that column was but it was fun when that information came out to a few people.  There was such a nice small town feel to the community.  And included Jason (Hogan's brother), Honor (Jason's wife) Sullivan and his wife Lexi.  They all gathered together to help when it was needed and that was only a few of them that were named.  

Who was the person stalking Brooklin and why?  Now, that WAS really a big fat surprise.  
H.E.A.'s all around making for a really good ending for the book. 


There is a quick look into another book by this author called " Close Contact." 

BOOK REVIEW- HEART OF EDEN (Colorado Hearts Book 1) by Caroline Fyffe

Raised by guardians in Philadelphia, the Brinkman sisters have suddenly been bequeathed more than the truth about their late, estranged father—they’ve also inherited the Five Sisters Ranch, the dynasty he’d built for them in Eden, Colorado. It’s theirs on one condition: to claim it, they must live on it for six months—a wilderness worlds away from the comforts of the city. For Belle Brinkman, her father’s last wish could fulfill a dream she never knew she had.

Though Blake Harding, their father’s protective friend and faithful foreman, has yet to come to terms with his own broken past, he finds his heart opening to the inspiring and determined Belle. But Eden soon proves to be a tough paradise for all of them when the sisters’ lives are threatened by someone hell-bent on driving them out of town. Now they must gather their courage if they’re going to secure their legacy and have a chance at claiming the new life and possibilities of love that the untamed territory offers.

AMAZON  4 stars

I liked this story.  It had good main characters with plenty of action and emotions.  Even though the story has all five sisters in it, Blake and Belle are the main focus when it comes to friction and attraction. 

Some of that friction comes at first because of Blake's anger on how the sisters totally refused to acknowledge their father.  Now he figures that their father is dead, they are there with their hands out. Yes, he knows that they were called back for the reading of the will.  But of course there is so much more to that part of the story.  The will and the conditions attached to it is a shock for all the sisters and Blake. 

Blake was a really good main character and he was as close to John Brinkman as a son.  And John felt the same way about him as well.  It wasn't hard to see why  he was so well thought of not only by John but much of the town.  

Most of the town including Blake think that the sisters (Mavis, Emma, Lavinia, Katie, and Belle) have been spoiled and living on Easy Street in Philadelphia; there's more to that part of the story too.  Turns out their guardians were out and out scoundrels.  

Yes, their is plenty of action not only because of the wilderness that they are living in but also from that  unknown person or person's who is after them.  Other than that most of the town was extremely welcoming and wished them well.  That made for some interesting cast of characters who added to the story.  It also looks like there are some possible romances brewing in the town.  Some even for the other sisters. 

The unveiling of the villain was quite the punch of surprise and so was the reason for the evil.  

There is a H.E.A. for both Blake and Belle but they are going to have to fight a bit for it.   And as they come clean with each other, another unscrupulous person's motives is exposed.   I saw through that man but just wasn't sure all of the why of his motives until the end.  Another Good timing for that surprise too!

I borrowed this book for free with my Prime Reading membership.

BOOK REVIEW- UNBRIDLED (Long, Tall Texans Book 46) by Diana Palmer

A lone wolf takes on the threat endangering everything he loves in an unforgettable story in the sensational Long, Tall Texans series

Widowed Texas Ranger and single dad John Ruiz hardened his heart years ago. Day after day, he tracks the roughest criminals in the Lone Star State, leaving little room for love. So when John butts heads with the beautiful nurse who’s helping his young son, he’s floored by how quickly the sparks fly.

Ever since her mother’s and brother’s brutal murders, Sunny Wesley has devoted her life to helping save others. Adorable Tonio Ruiz is just another youngster she’s trying to help—or so she tells herself. Little does she know he’s John’s son. When her life comes under fire, can one mysterious rancher rescue her?
AMAZON 4 STARS

A really good story with great main characters.  I will say that the story was a bit different than what I was expecting.  I thought it was going to be more like a western setting because of the mention of John being a rancher.  It did also mention that he tracks some of the roughest criminals and it was set more in a modern setting because of that. John was good at his job that was mainly as  a Texas Ranger.  A Texas Ranger who was also a rancher.
Tonio was John's son who was feeling neglected because of his father's focus on solving violent crimes.  He got in trouble more than once trying to gain his father's attention although he didn't realize that was what he was doing. Every time he had a moment to begin to open up with his father was interrupted.  His father's phone would ring and off he would go on the job.  Tonio was a good kid who fell into some bad company and got mixed up with a dangerous gang leader Rado.  He almost got pulled into that gang but although he's not in it Rado just doesn't want to let him loose.  And Rado scares the daylights out of Tonio, for himself and his friend David.  
Sunny was Suna's nickname because of her bright personality.  She was so tender, caring and brave.  She had quite the history of pain in her life but still lived hopeful.  She did avoid men because of some of that history but Ruiz got in under her guard.  Of course she ends up meeting Tonio and they start developing a friendship.   That was really sweet and emotional.  The way that Sunny met both John and Tonio was unusual and interesting.  
The whole story had its emotional moments.  And it was surprising how often that Sunny met separately with Ruiz and Tonio without  knowing that they were father and son.  Although the way it was written I could see how that would happen.
One of the other people in the story named, Cal Hollister was also a good addition to the story.   He added some spice and some help in the things that were going on.
I do have to admit one thing that was a bit difficult for me was that it seemed like more and more people were added.  A few times it made it a little hard to keep people sorted out in my mind.  But at least it went back to the main people of the story that made it worth reading.  
There is plenty of action and danger in the book and yes, romance and emotions.
One of my favorite things that Tonio said to his father that he was like an avalanche when he got a hold of some information.  It was a moment of truth between father and son.  John began to realize that he did that not only professionally but with his personal life too. 
After hurt feelings and misunderstanding between Sunny and John get sorted out, there is a H.E.A. ending for them.  Both criminally and personally.