BOOK REVIEW- The Bride Gift by Sarah Hegger

 1153, in the period dubbed ‘The Anarchy’, King Stephen and Empress Maud are not the only ones embroiled in a fierce battle of the sexes.

Determined to control her own destiny, wilful Helena of Lystanwold has chosen just the husband to suit her purposes. But when her banished guardian uncle attempts to secure her future and climbs through her bedroom window with a new husband by a proxy marriage, she understandably balks. Notorious warrior Guy of Helston is everything Helena swore she would never marry; a man who lives by the sword.

This marriage finally brings Guy close to his lifetime dream of gaining lands and a title. He is not about to let his feisty bride stand in his way. A master strategist, Guy sets out to woo and conquer his lady.

Against a backdrop of vengeance, war, and betrayal, Guy and Helena must learn to forge a united front or risk losing everything.  AMAZON 4 STARS

Helena chose a weak man as her future husband.  But her uncle was smarter than her and knew there was no way that man would be strong enough to protect her.  He also knew that she needed someone she couldn't easily bend to her will. 
The opening scenes of Helena and Guy meeting and declared husband and wife was pretty wild.  I liked the originality of it.  There was such an urgency that there was no time to just ease into it.
 Guy has his work set out before him when it comes to Helena.  But he does get to the point of wooing her.  She doesn't make it easy but he is determined.  They are headed to a H.E.A. but it's going to be a rough ride.
Several people have their own plots and agenda's in this story.  One man named, Ranulf is one smooth evil guy.  So many people really see him for who he is but he's so slick it's almost impossible to pin him down.  He has many people fooled but Helena and Guy aren't in that number. 
 There is plenty of action and adventure in this book. With a huge surprise of two towards the end.  The romance was enjoyable as well.  Don't forget to add in several other interesting secondary people and you have a pretty good story. 

BOOK REVIEW- Tall, Tatted, and Tempting (The Reed Brothers Series Book 1) by Tammy Falkner

Kit

Logan wants to know my name, but I can't tell him. I can't tell him anything. There are too many people looking for me. He's pretty persuasive, though, and he convinces me to go home with him so he can keep me safe from this harsh city where I find myself. It's not my home. It's his. He belongs. I don't.

Logan lives with four brothers in the inner city. Yet I've never felt more safe than I do when I'm with him. I want him. But he won't let me have a darn thing, aside from his friendship, unless I'm willing to tell him my secrets. But they're mine, and I can't share them. Not unless I want them to come and get me.

Logan

She catches my eye because she's so beautiful she takes my breath. But that's not all that I love about her. I love the way she smells. The way she smiles. The way she plays the guitar is unlike anything I have ever seen. She sleeps in my bed every night, and drives me crazy with her touch. But I can't take what she offers because I need all of her. I need for her to tell me her secrets. I need for her to trust me.

From the back of the book:

She’s locked up tight. But he might be the key.

Logan Reed is tall, tatted and tempting.
Kit’s a woman with a mean right hook and a secret.

Kit wants a tattoo, but Logan sees more than she intends to share in the drawing of the tat she wants. He sees her in ways no one ever has.

Logan’s not disabled; but he hasn’t spoken in eight years. He hasn’t needed to.
Until he meets Kit.

Logan doesn’t know everything about Kit. Kit doesn’t know anything about herself,
until she has to sacrifice all she ever wanted to save what’s most important to him.
AMAZON 4 STARS

This book caught my attention not only because of the eBook cover but the unusual information about the book.  And as I began to read it I began to realize it was even MORE unusual than I thought a first.  And I did like that!
Kit (Emily) is one tough cookie but even early on it's fairly easy to see that she's needed to be. Even with the things that she is hiding, she does crave a place to belong.   It's a dangerous craving; one that she is fighting.  The "Why" of her running is quite the surprise.
I also liked how the chapters were arranged.  First Logan's P.O.V. and then the next chapter was  Emily's.  It went back and forth that way without being repetitive of what's going on.  I have seen how some books just repeat the same scene but with each person's P.O.V. of it.  I'm glad this book doesn't do it that way, because I really don't enjoy that very much.

I did really enjoyed Logan's brothers being a part of this story too. 
 The title should give you a clue that the language and some of M.C.'s action are going to be HOT!  You've been warned.  But don't miss out on the tenderness that is going on too.  There are also other emotional things going on and not just with our M.C.'s.  But I'm just going to let the new reader unwrap that one.  
There is a H.E.A. for now with another adventure in the series.  There is a quick look into the next book if you decide you want to continue (Smart, Sexy, and Secretive ).


 “I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”  Then I also picked up a copy on Amazon. 

BOOK REVIEW- Sisters Like Us (Mischief Bay Book 4) by Susan Mallery

 The grass is always greener on your sister’s side of the fence…

Divorce left Harper Szymanski with a name no one can spell, a house she can't afford and a teenage daughter who's pulling away. With her fledgling virtual-assistant business, she's scrambling to maintain her overbearing mother’s ridiculous Susie Homemaker standards and still pay the bills, thanks to clients like Lucas, the annoying playboy cop who claims he hangs around for Harper's fresh-baked cookies.

Spending half her life in school hasn't prepared Dr. Stacey Bloom for her most daunting challenge—motherhood. She didn't inherit the nurturing gene like Harper and is in deep denial that a baby is coming. Worse, her mother will be horrified to learn that Stacey's husband plans to be a stay-at-home dad…assuming Stacey can first find the courage to tell Mom she's already six months pregnant.

Separately they may be a mess, but together Harper and Stacey can survive anything—their indomitable mother, overwhelming maternity stores and ex’s weddings. Sisters Like Us is a delightful look at sisters, mothers and daughters in today’s fast-paced world, told with Susan Mallery’s trademark warmth and humor.   AMAZON  5 + STARS

I very cautiously picked this book to read.  In varying degrees I like almost all of the author's books.  That wasn't the problem.  I just wasn't sure how I would like this story as it was explained.  So I took a small risk  and boy, am I glad I did. I LOVED, LOVED it!

 Harper and her sister Stacey had wildly different stories but did have a least a couple things in common. One is there completely dysfunctional relationship with their mother.  Even as they are in their forties it is still kind of crippling their lives.  Bunny has these rigid standards that she totally expects her daughters to line up with.  She loves them but uses manipulation and guilt at every turn.  You'll have to read the book to see if she ever shows any redeeming qualities as the story goes on.
I want to take a minute and mention a few of the starring people in the story.   Since I already mentioned Bunny, here are some of the rest:
Harper- She is struggling so hard to just survive and provide for her daughter Becca.  Her daughter has no idea how hard things are for her mother.  And things just keep getting piled more and more on Harper's plate.  Her ex is no help either.  He's a barely there guy with his own kid.  He just came across as entitled and selfish to the bone.
Stacey - was the smartest person in any room.  But not that way emotionally.  She often observed that she didn't understand and often missed subtle cues socially.  Most people just didn't get her either.  But she does feel blessed that her husband Kit does.  She has a good  marriage even though she is terrified of her pregnancy. She just knows she's going to be a terrible mother.
Kit- is so excited that he is going to have a daughter with Stacey.  He definitely was Stacey's Rock and it was good to see how he did that.  He IS someone not afraid to stand up for her and just let her be herself.
Becca- she's feeling invisible.  She's been let down by her father and his promises too many times to count.  Her mother is so busy with her business that she barely has time for Becca either.  Of course, Becca has no idea how desperate the finances are and is just your typical teenager.  But she's not going to be clueless for too much longer.  People start showing her this is her time to grow up a big.  Lucas is the one that helps her the most in that area.  He does care about her and he IS always there for her.  He becomes like a surrogate father to her.   He's fond of her but he also doesn't pull any punches.
Ashton- is Kit's nephew and wow, he has had a rough life.  But things are looking up for him now and he appreciates it a lot.  He becomes part of the family, something he hasn't had for a very long time.
Lucas-  Now here is an usual character.  He's an experienced older man.  He's a detective and a chaser of seriously younger women.  Not criminally young though.  None of them lasting all that long either.  Just flings, here and there.  He has a lot of good qualities though and some of the conversations between Harper and Lucas are seriously funny.  He helps her a lot but at one point he breaks the only one promise that Harper asked of him.  At first I thought it was a misunderstanding.  But no, it wasn't, and it made me want to hurt him.  Things work out but as in any good book, it's gonna be rocky for a while. 
Dean-  he ends up being quite the friend and a huge help to her business.  And help was definitely needed.  Now, here was some smile-worthy conversations.
I'm not forgetting to mention that there are several canines added to the story.  It's a worthwhile addition. 
So, to me this story was charming, emotional, with believable challenges and complex people.
The people had depth and they drew me in.

BOOK REVIEW- Until There Was You: Starlight Hill series (Book #3) by Heatherly Bell

Falling for your brother's best friend can be tricky...and fun!

Genevieve Hannigan has longed for her brother's best friend Wallace as long as she can remember. When she couldn't have the man of her dreams, she married his Doppelganger. But Genevieve quickly finds that substitutes are never as good as the real thing. Now, with a disastrous two-month marriage behind her, she's back in town and about to go after studly, hard-bodied contractor Wallace - the only man who's ever put the cream in her pie.

As his best friend's little sister, Genevieve has always been strictly off-limits to Wallace. Just one taste of gorgeous Gen, and he may have discovered the secret ingredient missing in all his serial dating.

But when Gen's ex-husband shows up in town with hopes to reconcile, Wallace's life is about to get turned upside down...AMAZON 3 STARS

This is a fun, fast, charming story.  Ok, Gen is often kind of wacky but she is also loved by many in the community.  Her brother Joe is over-protective of her and that does cause her troubles. 
You probably will have to suspend some belief when it comes to the part where Gen marries a Wallace look-a-like.  But hey, it's fiction people.

Gen has been in love with Wallace for so long, she's starving to get his real attention.
Wallace?  He's a bit clueless in a guy kind of way.  Not a bad guy, he does tend to try to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders when it comes to being a responsible person.  
He has always been there for his family, making sacrifices so that they could be taken care of.
Towards the end I wanted to slap him in the head though because he just over thought things Way TOO Much.  But he does finally get a clue and Wallace and Gen get their H.E.A.

BOOK REVIEW- Big Girl Panties: #One Like a Lady Series by S.J. Sawyer

Big Girl Panties is a Southern, romantic comedy that will leave you laughing and swooning in equal measure. It is the first novella in the Like A Lady serial and cannot be read as a standalone.

Mom always tells me that when life gives you lemons you squeeze the heck out of them and hope for some lemonade, but after catching that no-good lying, jerk of a bastard cheating on me seconds before we were supposed to be married, I do what any self-respecting Southern girl would do: throw a punch and hide under my blankie. Now, Mary Lou thinks I need a night of fun and adventure. I agree to go out, planning to get her off my back, but when I find myself in Mason Pierce’s arms, I’m thanking my lucky stars, and my best friend. ~Red

Freemont, Oklahoma, is the last place on the whole damned planet that I want to spend my summer and working on my parents’ ranch is the last thing I want to do, but damned if that’s not what I’m doing. Monroe and I need a night away from this place, a night to blow off steam. A party at the lake sounds like a mighty fine idea, and after catching a glimpse of Red Summers in the firelight, I’m quickly changing my tune. ~Mason
AMAZON

I did not finish this one.  I got part way through and realized that this story was NOT a stand alone book.  It also was for a much younger audience.  It continues through quite a few other books.  I can see though that this one doesn't have much of a resolution. So I decided NOT to finish and NOT to leave any reviews of any kind other than my blog.  Just to be fair. 
Placing this info on my blog is more so that I have a record of having already picked up this book and not to do it again.  

BOOK REVIEW- Every Breath You Take (Man from Yesterday Book 6) by Barbara Lohr

 Lindsay came to clean his house. That’s all. But somewhere between dusting and organizing his garage sale, Lindsay lost her heart...and her head. In those mistaken moments, she forgot to mention that she’s a mother. An only child, Tanner knows nothing about kids. This sweet small town romance is all about family choices and challenges.
Veteran Tanner Phelps has come home to purge his past by cleaning out the family home. Lindsay could mean a change in plan but can he take on a widow with two little girls? What can he possibly have to offer?
Then a little boy with Down syndrome shows up on his driveway. Tanner teaches Red how to play basketball. At first, they’re both clumsy. But the jaded vet learns he is more then enough, more then this town remembers. For now, he’s keeping his plans to himself.
Widowed young, Lindsay was disappointed in her first marriage. Tanner’s silence feels sadly familiar. Can Tanner and Lindsay move beyond the past and create a future together in Gull Harbor? A heartwarming novel about second chances. AMAZON 4 STARS

The book dedication was short, sweet, unexpected and good. One sentence that said a lot.

This was a charming sweet book with a great sense of community pulling together in Gull Harbor.  Since I grew up in a small town, the story resonated with me.  It was pretty much true to what it was like living in a small town.  It might even be more eye-opening to those who didn't grow up that way.  I liked how Lindsay's family surrounded her and had her back. 
Both Lindsay and Tanner were good main characters that I enjoyed.  They had a slow romance working until things began to heat up.
Lindsay's girls, Rebecca and Susan were believably written.   At times sweet, others rambunctious and had the sibling rivalry of young sisters going on at other times.  I just have to mention Red who added such sweetness to the story.  He did help Tanner grow and learn to express his caring in a bigger way.
I found there was a totally unexpected twist in the story towards the end.  But it also had a good Epilogue as well. I also appreciated the fact that towards the end of the book, the meaning of the title is explained.


Sarah, was someone who  figures in this book and I would also like to read her story.  Good news.  There IS a quick look into her story at the end of this book.  The book is called, "Christmas Dreams and Santa Schemes." 
I just can't leave this information about Sara without mentioning that her bakery made something called, "Cheese Crowns."  Several of her friends were practically addicted to them. That included Lindsay and her sister-in-law Mercedes.  Even though I wasn't exactly familiar with that term, I found myself almost salivating at the mention of that name.  Almost felt like the conditioning of Pavlov's and his dog study.  So, I just had to look the pastry up and include a picture of it.  I think the picture below is pretty accurate to what was described (Yum):


Cheese Crowns

BOOK REVIEW- Family Matters : DiCarlo Brides book 4 by Heather Tullis

Rosemary is determined to make it through a year in Juniper Ridge without forming any ties there. Harrison is determined to change her mind.

Rosemary Keogh considers herself pretty adaptable—she dealt with her father’s death-bed edict that she move across the country to work at his latest hotel. She hadn’t bitten the head off of any of her five unexpected half-sisters, had she? And she’s been pleasant about it. Mostly. She settled into the routine, even grew to like most of them, but when tragedy leaves her birth daughter parentless—and she is named guardian—her world spins again.  Trying to raise a nine-year-old who shares her spunk and determination isn’t always an easy thing.
Adding to the confusion, Harrison Forest, head of the resort’s human resources department, decides it’s time to shift their relationship from semi-adversarial to something a whole lot more pleasant. They had briefly met years earlier, and though they had started off on the wrong foot, he hadn’t been able to forget her.
When Rosemary starts having mysterious ‘accidents,’ though, her worries shift from being a bad mother to leaving her daughter an orphan yet again. Can they get past the roadblocks she’s been throwing between herself and Harrison to make things work? More importantly, will she survive that long?   AMAZON 4 STARS

Rosemary was quite an interesting character.  But all of the sisters I found interesting too.
Each one had their own different story but they did have a few things in common.  Like the feelings of betrayal from secrets kept and the manipulations of their lives. It was good to see all the sisters together, since I have read several of their stories. I know I also missed a few as well but I plan on remedying that soon. Although I will have to work it into my TBR pile.

Back to Rosemary..spunky and prickly Rosemary.  What secrets that gal is hiding! Cleo is one pretty big one.  I thought the author did a pretty good job of showing the emotions in this story.  Not only between Cleo and Rosemary but also between Rosemary and Harrison.  The relationship between Rosemary and the other sisters isn't totally healed yet either but this story helps work them closer together.  
 This story had quite a bit of emotion without being too mushy.  I also enjoyed how deep the relationship Rosemary had with the couple who adopted her daughter.  It was almost like they treated her like an additional daughter.  That was unexpected.
Harrison isn't perfect but wow, what patience this guy has with Rosemary as the story goes forward.  He was also so tender towards Cleo and that earned him a lot of points in my book.
 He even mentioned that trying to get closer to Rosemary was like, taking one step forward and then several back.  It was hard work to get her to trust.  Made for quite a dance-like romance.
  I also have to mention one of the sisters, Sage shows up in this story in a minor way but every time she does she adds flavor to the story.  She just knows things..she gets flashes about other people.  Harrison is her brother and she makes sure he knows the tidbits that she gets. 

There is quite a lot of action in this book because of the mysterious accidents.  I could almost FEEL that the one suspect they were focused on was not "The One" causing it all.  But it didn't hurt the story one bit.  Finally as the story continued I thought why aren't you considering,  ____?  Sure enough that was The One and I liked how it got found out and overcome.  There is also a H.E.A. to the story.

I like that the author included a Cast of Characters list, that is so helpful.  And fun.
 

**Hearing God/Pray without Ceasing- Lisa Bevere

 
A number of years ago, I (John) was driving when I heard the Holy Spirit say, "I have something to say. Pull off the road."

Now I’ve learned that when God tells me to do something—even if it appears trivial or is inconvenient at the time—to obey. Instantly.

A half mile down the highway I pulled off at a rest stop. Immediately, I heard the Spirit of God whisper to my heart, "Did I not say to you, ‘Pray without ceasing’?"

I responded, "Yes Lord, You did."

He probed further: "Is prayer a monologue or a dialogue?"

I replied, "It’s a dialogue Lord, a two-way conversation."

His words came quickly: "Well, if I said to pray without ceasing, then that means I am willing to communicate without ceasing!"

It was a pivotal moment for me.

I realized God wants to speak to us far more than we typically engage with Him.

Sadly, most Christians don't take God up on His incredible offer.

I don't say this to shame you. I say it to open your eyes to the heart of your Father. He longs to connect with you in ways you have only imagined.

If you've never really developed your ability to hear God's voice, or you just want to take it to the next level, don't wait another day. 

 We created the Hearing God course to take you by the hand and guide you every step of the way—but don't wait! Today is the last day to register and get the discounted price. At midnight, the price goes up.

 We pray this course helps you encounter God in profound ways, and we are honored to come alongside you and help you grow.

BOOK REVIEW- The Trouble with Cowboys by Victoria James

Description

From New York Times bestseller Victoria James comes a poignant and heartfelt romance that wraps you in a warm embrace...
Eight years ago, Tyler Donnelly left Wishing River, Montana, after a terrible fight with his father and swore he’d never return. But when his father has a stroke, guilt and duty drive him home, and nothing is as he remembers––from the run-down ranch to Lainey Sullivan, who is all grown up now. And darn if he can’t seem to stay away.
Lainey’s late grandma left her two things: the family diner and a deep-seated mistrust of cowboys. So when Tyler quietly rides back into town looking better than hot apple pie, she knows she’s in trouble. But she owes his dad everything, and she’s determined to show Ty what it means to be part of a small town...and part of a family.
Lainey’s courage pushes Ty to want to make Wishing River into a home again—together. But one of them is harboring a secret that could change everything.   AMAZON  3.5 STARS

This was an emotional story on so many levels with several different people.  Front and center in that is both Tyler and Lainey.  Some of their reasons are similar but there are also some important differences.   One thing that they have in common is that they feel so alone.  Like no one really has their back.  The only one that seemed to be there for Lainey was Tyler's father.  Someone she was doing everything she could for after his brush with death.  
I had a bit of trouble trying to figure all the hate glares and cold shoulders Tyler was getting. Come on, it got kind of ridiculous.   His former best friends from his youth, Cade and Dean? They seemed really immature in their response to his return.  It was over-the top judgemental almost 24-7. So he didn't tell you he was leaving 8 years ago.  Get over it!
As much as I liked Lainey and her struggles there were quite a few times I wanted to slap her.  Even after getting to know Tyler a bit better, whenever a fight happened, she always thought Tyler started it.  She jumped in thinking she knew everything when she really only had half of the story.  Even when it came to Tyler and his father, she had only seen or heard one side.  She tried fixing it when she didn't know Tyler's side.  That part got irritating.
Tyler's father and his cold shoulder also seemed a bit over the top too.  You've wanted him to come back all this time and then you ignore him, won't talk to him?  Made me shake my head.  But I guess people can be that dumb.   He's kind of cutting off his nose to spite his face. 
Everything does start to change but it is an uphill battle for everyone.  Although I liked the main characters, all of the angst really did slow the story down quite a bit.  I didn't enjoy that as much.  
There is a H.E.A. for the M.C.'s with a satisfying Epilogue.  
I am going to be giving this book a rating of 3.5 Stars. Just a little extra because of the emotional part was well written as was the main characters depth too.  A little less because of the slowness of the story. I guess I wish there had been a little less angst and a bit more action.  So saying I had some mixed feelings about this book would be right on the money.


 “I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”

BOOK REVIEW- My Little Secret by L.A. Casey

Description

She’s a good girl. He’s a very bad boy. Sparks will fly when fate brings them together in this fiery romance by New York Times and USA Today bestselling author L.A. Casey.
Ashley Dunne is a bad boy, a notorious member of Dublin’s most ruthless gang. But when privileged daddy’s girl Ryan Mahony finds herself living on an urban estate they control, she can’t help feeling he’s not that bad at all…
Ryan and Ash were never meant to cross paths: she’s always been sheltered by her successful barrister father. But when he’s unexpectedly sent to prison, she’s forced to move in with estranged relatives in the city, where a chance encounter with Ash sends sparks flying. He’s the one man she’s been warned to avoid, but fate seems determined to bring them together…
While her head warns of danger, her heart tells her to be reckless for the first time in her life. She knows there’s more to Ash than his gangland reputation. But when he starts to rethink his future and attracts the wrong kind of attention, Ryan has to ask herself: is her life going off the rails—or has she finally found the right track?   AMAZON 3 Stars

This book had kind of a rough start.  It did do a good job though of showing how different Ryan's life was from her norm.  It got totally upended.  Her cousin Eddi, was really hard to like and gave Ryan a totally undeserved hard time in the beginning.  And Ryan had almost zero street smarts going for her because she had been so sheltered. Her aunt though might be poor but she was kind and nurturing. 
The nickname that Ash gave Ryan made me grin. "Nightmare" was funny but also  based on some klutzy moments from Ryan.  
Two people played a big part in Ash's life.  His best friend Anto and his younger brother, Sean. 
Anto was a really loyal friend and a hoot as well.  He added quite a bit of humor to the story.
There were some really unexpected twists towards the end of the story.  I really enjoyed not only that but also the meanings of why this book title has it's meaning.  
There was a good ending and good Epilogue that pulled all the threads together.
In my mind, the characters drove the story. While it took a bit of time to get into it, I did get invested in how in the world would they ever catch a break. 

It felt like the solving of the main problem came about kind of rushed.   Although I was glad things got settled, it left me feeling like it was kind of  dissatisfying.   However, a H.E.A. is a H.E.A. and it did happen for more than one person.




 “I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”

BOOK REVIEW- Deep Harbor by Fern Michaels

Description

In this stirring new novel, acclaimed #1 New York Times bestselling author Fern Michaels delves into the remarkable ways in which moments of crises can lead to our greatest acts of courage . . .

When Carol Ann “CJ” Jansen lost her beloved older brother, Kick, in a boating accident, she came adrift. Kick had taken on the role of caring for his little sister after their parents were killed in a car crash. Inheriting half his fortune has left CJ financially secure—yet needing a purpose. As administrative assistant to powerful congressman Snapper Lewis, she’s immersed herself in the exciting and often tumultuous world of politics.

But suddenly, the career that anchors her life is threatened. CJ stumbles upon information that could implicate her boss in corruption. When the congressman dies of an apparent suicide, the closer CJ gets to uncovering the truth, exposing one shocking secret after another, the more she wonders if she’s also in jeopardy.

Moving to a small New England town for her own protection, CJ gradually begins to engage with her new surroundings. Her blossoming friendship with the owner of a charter fishing boat offers the promise of much more. But before she can claim happiness, CJ must navigate a course through all her doubts and fears, and trust that this time, the water that took so much from her might just lead her safely home . . . AMAZON 3.5 STARS

I like Fern Michael's as an author.  But I also find that I either love the books that she has written or they fall in the middle for me.  What  I mean is that while I don't hate them they are just okay.  That's where this one fell for me.  Even though CJ was a good enough main character and her deceased brother's long- time lover Colin was good also.  They had each others backs even after her brother "Kick" died.  Colin is there for her once again as she pulls him into the mystery that SHE gets pulled into.
There was plenty of mystery, action and danger to the story.  But sad to say it just really didn't grab me.  Even with the twists and turns I still wish I had liked it more.
It has a good Epilogue with one more unexpected twist in that part as well. 

I  voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own

BOOK REVIEW-London Calling by Veroica Forand

Description

Small town police officer Emma Ross loves her simple life––but it takes a hard turn into crazy when she’s kidnapped by MI6 and is put under the protection of an over-bearing, albeit sexy, Scotsman. A man who believes she’s lying to protect her father—a father whom she had no idea worked for British Intelligence and is now missing.
Liam Macknight’s partner was assassinated and he’s certain Emma’s father had something to do with it. But the stubborn woman isn’t talking, and she’s determined to get herself killed trying to find out the truth. Locking her in a room does no good––he tried that. So he’s forced to work with her, even if he’s not sure he’ll ever be able to trust her.
When he’s assigned to kill her dad to protect the identity of British spies in the Kremlin, he knows what little trust they’ve gained is about to be destroyed forever...AMAZON 5 ++ STARS

Wow. I just finished really this book and have to just take a few minutes to come down from the intensity of this one!   I will say that if I could give it 10 STARS on Amazon, I would.
The main characters, the supporting cast of people, the action, the dangers, the emotions was off the charts good.  Do you want to know about the world building?  I'd say yes that the author did an awesome job of building and operating a clandestine world.  

 Emma Ross just THINKS she has a simple life.  There is so much underground information that she has no clue about. And yes, it will bite her in the butt for a while.  But you can't keep this gal down for long.  I like how MacKnight at one point talked about her.  That the one plan that they went with was all her and that it was "insane" but brilliant.  
MacKnight was quite the complex man who trusted very few people.  And with some very good reasons.   This book started out by showing a pretty violent act that cuts to the hearts of the team.  MacKnight first and foremost as team leader had to go on but it was shown the difficulties that he had about everything.
If you think that bureaucrats will figure in this story.  Yes, you've got that right.  If you think that there will only be one betrayal or one villain.  No, think again.  
If I had to put my opinion in a few words I would say it was a "High Octane Adventure." I like a good romance in my suspense books and this one had it too.  There will be a good H.E.A. but it will be a hard fought for one.
I will be looking for more books by this author.



 “I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”

BOOK REVIEW- Saving the Scot by Jennifer Trethewey

 Description

Louisa Robertson’s father is furious when he finds her acting on stage. Now, she’s being shipped off to America to marry some stranger her father thinks will bring out the “lady” in her. Luckily, Louisa’s maid agrees to switch places with her! Her maid will marry the American and get the wealthy lifestyle she’s always wanted, and Louisa can do whatever she damn well pleases––for the first time in her life.
Highlander Ian Sinclair needs an army commission, and the only way he can get one is to safely deliver the general’s Daughter-from-Hell to her intended in America.
Easy, right? It would be if the lady’s companion Louisa didn’t wear breeches and do everything the exact opposite of what he orders. It’ll be a miracle if the sparks flying between Ian and Louisa don’t set the bloody ship afire before they arrive in America. But just when Louisa thinks her plan is going to give her the acting career she wants and a Highlander to boot...Ian discovers her secret.
AMAZON   3.5    STARS

Really early on in the book I found myself amused by an observation I made about the two M.C.'s.  Ian HAD to have order in his life.  It was his quirk, his obsession.  Louisa was Chaos.  Everywhere she went she stirred things up.  The story often showed that too. 

I have mixed feelings about this book.  There were parts that I really liked and others not so much.  I guess one of those parts that I didn't like so much was when Louisa did some really stupid stuff.  That phrase TSTL came to mind at least once.  *Sigh* I guess it just has to be chalked up to her being naive.  But that said, she also showed some uncommon courage as well. 
 The time that Louisa and her maid (and friend) Mairi spent on the board the ship made for some interesting times.  And added a few interesting characters as well.  But it also added to some of the slow down in the story for me.  

Of course you just know that Louisa's plot with Mairi is going to explode at some point, right?  But when it does, it REALLY explodes.  I could see one particular problem coming up but neither of the women thought that part through.  So, it was quite the punch in the gut for all involved when it happened.  
Watch for Rory as well, he is going to throw a bit of a monkey wrench into things.  He also causes some tears and a few tender scenes too. 
 Declan is Ian's cousin who doesn't actually show up in the book but his influence does.  He is a man who has prophetic dreams that actually do come to pass.  He has shared with Ian that he will love and marry a woman who wears trousers.  Uh-Oh.  Yes, that's right, "The Daughter from Hell" as she is called by others.  Will the real Louisa please stand up?

I liked that there were several twists at the end and the H.E.A. for SEVERAL people as well.  

 I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own

BOOK REVIEW- The Sheikh's Fierce Fiancee (Sheikhs of Al-Dashalid Book 3) by Leslie North

Description

Sheikh Issam doesn’t have time to find a bride. He’d rather a sign would appear to him, signaling the perfect woman and save him the trouble of finding her. However, he didn’t foresee the sign being the sister-in-law of his rival nation’s president crashing into the holiest temple in his country. Now, he and the fearsome beauty must find a way to circumvent the ancient religious law that demands her death—or he’ll face war on three fronts.

Mackenzie came to Al-Dashalid with a mission: save the women’s shelter that had taken root in a disputed fort between Al-Dashalid and her brother-in-law’s country. With war growing more likely every day, she doesn’t have time to waste arguing her way out of an unjust death sentence. She’s ready to sit down with Sheikh Issam and make sure he understands that the safety of the women and children in the shelter is more important than his alpha-male posturing.

What Mackenzie isn’t ready for is Issam offering her the perfect out: marriage. Members of the royal family are exempt from prosecution of holy law. He’ll meet his marriage deadline, and she’ll have his ear about the disputed fort and its vulnerable occupants. It seems perfect.

Now if only she could get him to listen…AMAZON 3 STARS

Let me say right off the bat that I have read other books by Leslie North and I liked them.  I also liked that this  book had a strong female lead like Mackenzie in it.  I enjoyed that Issam's family was part of the story.  However, this book just didn't do it for me.  It felt like it was a book with sex being the main dish with some story built around it.  I had high hopes for it in the beginning because I had read this book excerpt in a different book.  It sounded like it was going to be really good. While it had some good points, it didn't totally get there...for me.  
Doesn't that mean that I won't be reading any more books by this author?  No, it just means I couldn't connect that well to this one.  It was just Okay. 

“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”
 

BOOK REVIEW- Pride and Magic (Spells and Sins Book 1) by Melody Raven

 Magic always come back... Always.

Samantha Harris walked away from her family, and magic, years ago. But when a string of murders rocks New York City, Sam can't help but notice that the placement of the bodies screams magic. Except no one in her family seems to pick up the connection.

When she tries to give the lead detective a quick hint to send him in the right direction, Sam gets sucked further into the investigation than she ever thought possible. Now Detective Derek Pierce has to put together the half truths Sam is giving him and the facts of the case that get stranger by the second.

The killer is closer to Sam than she could've imagined and Derek is the only one who can stop him from tearing her family apart, but only if he knows the whole truth. And the whole truth is exactly what could kill him.  AMAZON 4 stars

I liked this story and loved the eBook cover!
Both Sam and Derek were good main characters that drew me in.   
This book was a bit different than some of the others that I have read.   I liked that Sam was different because she tried to walk away from magic and it cost her big time.  I liked how the author came at that from a different angle than I've read before.  Add to that when she had tried magic it often  screwed things up royally.  
Derek was a tired, overworked detective but he still was a good guy through and through.   The first few meetings between Sam and Derek were interesting to say the least.  They also got even MORE interesting as time went on.  
Sam's family members were definitely something else and not always something good.  Well, usually not good for anyone who tried to cross the witch families.  
There is plenty of action and dangers in the story also some romance and hot attraction too.  
 So questions are but some remain.  This book goes have an unexpected ending although I'm not sure that's the right word to use.  It leaves the reader at a cliffhanger of sorts.  You get to decide if it's enough for you or if you want to read on into the series.  I think that I want to read on in the next book.   

 “I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”

BOOK REVIEW- The Wedding Favor: A Sweet Marriage of Convenience Romance (Your Invitation to Romance Book 1) by Caroline Mickelson

When Ava McKenna left the neighborhood she grew up in, she never planned to look back. And for ten years she didn’t. Not until Mateo Ortega, the handsome and charming boy next door, showed up to ask for her help. Mateo needed a favor, actually he needed a pretend fiancée, and he thought Ava would be the perfect woman for the charade. Ava knew that she owed the Ortega family a favor but when she looked into Mateo’s gorgeous brown eyes she realized that repaying an old debt might jeopardize her heart.  AMAZON 3.5 STARS      Heat Level: Sweet Romance

 This book was a sweet, charming story.  Good main characters and a really involved Ortega family. Don't get me wrong, the Ortega family involvement wasn't bad.  In fact, they were a very close family which is one of the reasons Mateo made his unusual request. You could feel the closeness. I also liked the background of Ava and Mateo knowing each other for so many years as kids.  The Ortega family had been a big part of her life then.   The author did a good job with that. 
 The two M.C.'s have some challenges that you would expect.
 It also has a H.E.A. and I'm glad Ava ad Mateo got it because I did like both of them.

BOOK REVIEW- Convergence by Ginny L. Yttrup

 
A psychologist paralyzed by fear.

A mother propelled by love.

A stalker bent on destruction.

Psychology professor Dr. Denilyn Rossi contends that the past is either a shadow that haunts us or a force that propels us. The choice is ours, she tells her students. What she doesn’t tell them is that her own past is a shadow she can’t seem to shake. Fear has immobilized her and is taking a costly toll.

Adelia Sanchez, however, has embraced Dr. Rossi’s teaching. She is ready to confront fear and render it powerless—using the trauma of her past to propel her to entrap the man who stalked and brutally attacked her.

As Denilyn’s past and Adelia’s present converge at the Kaweah River, a dangerous man bent on destruction threatens them both. Will he uncover the secret Deni and Adelia have fought so hard to protect?   AMAZON 3 STARS

This book had a slow start but it did end up making me wonder what exactly Denilyn and Adelia gone through.   It also did flashbacks between different years which I found kind of dizzying to try to make sense of.   That part I didn't like so much. It did present the truth of why you should trust your gut impressions.  Denilyn sure wishes she had.  Another thing that I found hard to deal with was the bouncing back and forth between the two people like I mentioned.  I barely got to know one person and then I barely got to know the other.  I didn't like the choppiness of that. That did change a bit as the story went on and focused more on Denilyn.  For me, it just felt like it was all over the place. 
One piece of really great advice was when Denilyn's therapist told her to "Pay attention". No matter what anyone else said she was  advised to pay attention to what she was feeling and sensing.  She began to get that exact same phrase from more and more people.
It wasn't until over more than half-way through  that things started to really pick up and make more sense.  I did begin to enjoy it more then. Still, I can honestly say that I have mixed feelings about this book.
There are a couple of good twists in the story and I also liked that I could see Denilyn's faith in God grow.



“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.” 


 

Book Review- Wed to a Billionaire (Lead Magnet) by Riley Chance

There is no link for this book on Amazon or Goodreads either.  I honestly don't remember where I picked up this book since I have had it for a while.  It might have been a special newsletter offer. I did find this picture that IS the cover for the book:

Amber LaFayette goes undercover for a gossip magazine as a rich diamond heiress named  Victoria Goldsmith.  Her job for "Gush!" is to unearth the secrets of billionaire Alexander Winchester.  She is basically an honest woman but a girl's gotta eat (and pay off college loans). Besides, she understands he has a rep as a rich playboy.  And she classifies him as being as deep as a puddle of water.
Imagine her surprise when he actually is deeper and while rich is actually a nice guy.
I can't say this is a really deep book but there is a nice twist at the end and an Epilogue.  
The "I'm in love with you"comes pretty fast, so I really didn't feel it.  So I just had to remind myself this was a short story/novella kind of book.  If I could place a review, I would probably rate it as just okay.





 This is a quick, somewhat charming story that is a Novella. 

BOOK REVIEW- The Sheikh's Blackmailed Bride Sheikhs of Al-Dashalid: Book 2 by Leslie North

Description

One wild night of drinking led to Catelyn Wolf marrying Sheikh Rami in a lavish, beautiful ceremony. At least, that’s what the pictures show. Turns out Catelyn faked the whole wedding with some photoshopped pictures in a desperate attempt to give her fledgling wedding planning business, Elite Occasions, a chance at survival. The Hail Mary worked, and now they have their first client—with a multimillion-dollar wedding to boot. True, her besties, who are also her business partners, weren’t happy with the elaborate lie, but even they had to admit that it worked like a charm...that is until Sheikh Rami himself shows up, demanding to meet “his wife.”
Sheikh Rami has no time to find a suitable bride, not with his huge contract with a Texas oil company on the rocks. So when news of his “wedding” is uncovered by his brother, Catelyn’s “joke” turns into the answer to Rami’s prayers. Catelyn is good friends with the owner of the oil company—the perfect way to get an in with the company. All he needs is a big rock and an even bigger divorce clause to officially marry by his deadline. The fact that Catelyn is hot as sin only helps matters...
Catelyn, however, does not go gently down the aisle, and Rami is forced to threaten the business she and her friends have worked so hard to build. If she doesn’t marry him, he’ll out their biggest wedding as a lie and she’ll be ruined. But as their business-only relationship turns decidedly passionate, the two become entangled both in the bedroom as well as in business. In the end they’ll have to decide if the marriage that began as fake is actually fate.   AMAZON 4 STARS

I liked the story. It was a fast, fun story with good main characters.  While the way they married was kind of unlikely, I knew that going in.  So I just accepted it and just had fun with the story.  
Rami was a bit awkward when it came to social gatherings and that was something I wasn't expecting.  But it did make him more interesting and showed how much he needed Catelyn as well.  She was on top of her game when it came to dealing with people. 
Yes, there is passion in this story between Rami and Catelyn even as they try to tip toe around the idea of a relationship end date. 
The story wasn't real deep but it did have a good emotional foundation and also had a pleasing H.E.A.  
 I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”

BOOK REVIEW- An Unexpected Redemption: Book One of the Romalo Legacy Series BY Emily Hamsher

Description

Prince Lucian of Brasov has been running from his family, from God, and even from himself. When he decides to take revenge upon his elder brother by stealing away his betrothed, Lucian is taken aback by the woman in his custody. Her pure heart and unabashed kindness thwarts his every cruel intention. Lucian finds himself hoping that she might hold the answers to heal his past, even though he knows she can never be his.
Every girl dreams of marrying her prince, so when Lady Adelina receives the unexpected announcement of her betrothal to the Prince of the realm, she takes it as a clear sign of the Lord’s will. When she is kidnapped by a band of ruffians and taken far from her home she quickly learns that the road to love is never as it seems. Though her captor portrays himself as a ruthless man, Adelina can’t help but feel compassion for him and the pain she finds lurking beneath the dark shadows of his character. AMAZON 3 STARS

This story was definitely one that had a slow pace to it.  For me, at times it felt too slow.

Lucian's lifelong friendship with Radu was a welcome part of the story.  They started out as scalawags but a life-threatening event caused a encounter with  lisus (Jesus).  It caused some radical changes in Radu but he also still wouldn't desert his friend Lucian. Even though since Radus's conversion he disagreed with many of Lucian's choices.  There were also several different interesting people in the story besides Radu.   That included Lucian's mother and father and Adeline's father,  mother and sister.
I did find it interesting when Lucian and Adeline have a dangerous time with a pack of wolves.
 .
Even though Lucia and Adeline get sort of a H.E.A. for now, I didn't care for the abrupt ending to this book. Yes, it offered further adventures but I still didn't care for that. 

On a final note:
 Although I found the expressions of faith a good part of story, not everyone is going to enjoy that. 

 “I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”

BOOK REVIEW- Wild Hearts (DiCarlo Brides Book 5) by Heather Tullis

Finding love in the Rockies was not in her plans—and she was a devil with plans.

Delphi Gifford has nearly given up on finding someone she could love as much as her dead husband, Fallon. Certainly local photographer Jeremy Litster could never make the grade, egomaniac that he is--even if he did drive the hottest racing motorbike she'd ever touched.
Jeremy knew George DiCarlo had hand-picked him to marry the gorgeous, buttoned-up Delphi, but hadn't counted on her not being in the loop, causing him to make a major misstep the first time they met. After working together for six months, though, he seriously regrets putting up a wall between them and begins a careful campaign to win her over and convince her to stay when her year there was up.
When a date turns into a car chase as someone tries to take the two of them out, they have to figure out what they did or saw that put them both in danger.   AMAZON 3 STARS

Although I liked this book, I would have to say that it didn't really reel me in like Book #1 did.   It had a lot of good points like the development of the M.C.'s but still left me feeling like it was also a bit lacking too. 
Delphi was a complex woman and I did enjoy that.  Also seeing what was happening with her other half-sisters was nice too.  It did kind of bug me that they didn't get it that she was different than them and NEEDED alone time. Sure she had been shutting them out and they wanted into her life but the no boundaries thing kind of irritated me too.
Jeremy and his father Al had a dysfunctional relationship.  There was a lot of family pain that accounted for that. But Jeremy still keeps reaching out to his father.  There is hope there that things will change.   
Jeremy hated Delphi on sight.  Well, not really but he hated "the plan" that he thought she was a part of.  Boy, did his attitude mess things up at first. Then very slowly a friendship of sorts begins to develop.  
The reason danger was following them was a surprise and wasn't the usual thing that you might think.
There is a H.E.A. for this story and excerpt of Jonquil's story.  The last unmarried sister is in the book aptly named, "The Last Bride" (DiCarlo Brides Book 6).  
While this book I felt was a bit weaker than the other one I read, I still might be interested in reading some of the other sisters stories.  
I do have to say that I did love the covers on these eBooks though.  Very attractive!

BOOK REVIEW- Her Alien Savior (Ultimate Passage Book 1) by Elle Thorne

A wickedly sexy sci-fi new adult serial starts with Her Alien Savior, a 150-page book that brings us Finn and Marissa. A sexy alien and the human hellion he can't resist, even when she's his intended target.

An alien soldier without emotions.

Finn is three quarters Asazi and one quarter human. He's a lieutenant in the Asazi army and his desire is to be the best soldier he can. He's spent a lifetime denying his human side, only to find out that now it makes him key to a mission on Earth. A mission that includes Marissa Sanchez, Target 41, a determined, smart-mouthed spitfire that brings out emotions his Asazi nature rejects.

A human woman with a target on her.

Marissa's dream is to keep her restaurant from being seized by ruthless developers. She's broke, out of options, has a deadline, and a cheating ex who offers to marry her and solve her financial problems. Everything changes when a guy named Finn saves her life and provides a completely different kind of option.  AMAZON 3.5 STARS

This book is for 18+. This book has explicit sexual content. Please do not read it if this sort of thing offends.

This was a quick story with some interesting ideas.  Even though it wasn't super deep, it also wasn't too bad.
Both Finn and Marissa were really good main characters.  Finn's culture was well defined as well.  Finn's cousin Kal also figures in the story as well.  Kal has a higher rank than Finn but still they are fairly close.  
Marissa's ex boyfriend was something else and I wasn't sure what was in it for him to marry her.  Later, I just guessed it was him being spoiled and not liking to loose.  Especially when Finn came on the scene. 
There was quite a twist at the end of the book and a H.E.A. for now ending.  For those who want to continue on in this series there is another adventure for Finn and Marissa. 

 Nice cover on the eBook.

BOOK REVIEW- Camouflaged (Hiding From Love Book 1) by Selena Laurence

 Camouflaged is a novella of about 35k words.

Opposites attract, military, romantic suspense.

Gabe is a soldier--a hard man living in a hard world. Afghanistan to be exact.
But then he meets Alexis.
She's a humanitarian, a soft woman looking to make the world softer. Unless you're a soldier.
Trapped together in a warzone, can these two opposites find love even as they work to survive?
AMAZON 3.5 STARS

I have to say when Alexis first showed up in the story I didn't like her.  She was snotty,
 judgemental and rude. She also came across as an entitled know- it- all with limited life experience.  Gabe came across as a horny soldier with a slick pickup line or two. Although his 2 reasons for being in the military were good ones.  I was hoping the story would improve. And THEN the sandstorm happened and things began to shift in a good way.  Redeeming qualities of the two M.C.'s began to be shown more.  Something that made me smile was that when Alexis got all angry and fiery, it just turned Gabe on more.
Steve is a minor character who still managed to be like an annoying gnat.  He's part of the visiting U.N. volunteer team but he just made me want to slap him in the head.  And yell, "what are you 5 years old?"
 All in all, I'd say the story gave me mixed feelings about it. I liked some of it but not all of it.  And it was both sweet at times and spicy at others.

BOOK REVIEW- Triggered Response (Security Breach Book 3) by Patricia Rosemoor

Description

An explosion in a secret defense lab changes the lives of three men forever...
His brain was on fire, and he fought going back to the raging inferno of his private hell. Despite the power he now possessed, he couldn’t even remember his name. According to the news, he was Brayden Sloane, former security expert at Cranesbrook Labs, now wanted for murder and kidnapping. He couldn’t remember that, nor the woman who claimed to be his wife. Claire Fanshaw needed Bray to find her friend who'd disappeared following the explosion. Until Bray regained his memory, she'd stick to him like glue. But what would he do when he realized the woman in his bed was a stranger? And what would she do if the cops were right about Bray?  AMAZON 5 stars

What a great story. I loved it.  It just seemed to fly by. I have read at least one of the other books in the series.   But I think it could be easily followed by new readers as a stand alone.
What great main characters.  Brayden (Bray) was a strictly by the book, kind of uptight guy.  Claire was a liar.  Someone who was almost a professional grade one.  She's had to be to survive her childhood.  But she also never did it to hurt anyone either, so that should give her some slack.  And in the story it will come in handy and save the day more than  once. She also has the unusual ability to be able to get a pretty good read on people.  Add to that she has some pretty mad computer skills too.  
Of course, Bray DESPISES lies so you can see that is really going to be a problem for them. 
It took him quite a while to even figure out who he is at first.  It was quite the emotional time for him and those around him.  The more I got to see him in the action, the better  I liked him.
You do know though, that because Claire is posing as Bray's wife that there is going to be some serious sexual heat between the two of the right?  Because the basic attraction was already there. 
I thought that the world building in this book was really good and you just weren't sure who you could trust in the scientific world.  
Twists, turns and multiple villains vying for power add to the intensity of the story.   Not to worry though, because there were also some good people trying to have Bray's back as they look for the truth.  Bray's sister is one of those people although she has some challenges as well. 
There is a good H.E.A. also with a satisfying Epilogue.

  I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own

**Friday March 15: Andrew Zimmern, David Goggins

David Goggins has quite the mental strength that he developed for himself.

I liked what he said about he had to conquer himself. (He was on the T.V. show of Pickler and Ben today)
I also went to one of the links on David's site  https://davidgoggins.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/01-2019-Outsider-Goggins.pdf

There were 2 statements that went off like a rocket to me especially the first one:

" I believe that in order to find peace, you must be willing to go to war with yourself."

"My mind was shackling me.”