BOOK REVIEW- Wrangling His Pregnant Cowgirl (Beckett Brothers, #3) by Leslie North

 

 Scout Beckett has always wanted to run a ranch, not just work it under the purview of his older sibling. He wants to do something different from his family’s horses and beef cattle: he wants to own a dairy farm. To this end, Scout has been working on one as a foreman, and his mentor had always promised it would be Scout’s after he passed. But when the owner dies, he wills it to his city-slicker granddaughter instead; leaving Scout in charge of a farm that will never be his.

Stella has worked for a nonprofit for years, helping to feed starving children in third-world countries. When she comes home for the funeral to say goodbye to her grandfather, the only stability she’s ever known, she finds herself falling into the arms of sexy cowboy Scout when shared loss and simple comfort turns to a night of passion before they each go their separate ways.

But three months later, Stella returns to the ranch, faced with the stipulations of her grandfather’s will: she must stay for the better part of the year, or lose the ranch to charity. Not only that, but she has to tell her one-night stand that he’s going to be a daddy. When the shock of her pregnancy wears off, Stella vows to ride out the will’s rule and get back to her old life as soon as possible.

But as Stella slowly remembers why she’s always loved the place she’s come back to, Scout has to decide if he’s okay with never owning the land he works. Is having a family enough? Or will he pass on love and passion for a farm of his own?  AMAZON Link     4 STARS


I enjoyed this story.  It moved quickly and kept my interest.  Stella was one independent woman but then she's had to be.   The only time she ever had normal was when she spent time with her grandfather.  The rest of the time she was pretty much on her own.  Her mother wasn't much of a nurturer and they moved around a lot.  It seems like that lifestyle continued in the job that she has taken on.  I'm not downplaying her skill though because she is good at it and loves it!
Scout was a hardworking, charming, honorable guy.  But also sometimes as stubborn as the day is long.  I liked how he and Stella interacted until he got in his own way.  But he had a community of family that was not afraid to get in his face and make him ask questions of himself.   He didn't always appreciate it but it did help save his butt from time to time.  And this time with Stella was going to be one of those.  I also liked how those same family and friends reached out to Stella and welcomed her.
Things are going to get rocky off and on but there is a H.E.A. so that works for me. 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Shadow Keeper (A Shadow Riders Novel Book 3) by Christine Freehan

 One family brings its own brand of justice to the streets of Chicago's shadowy underworld as #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan returns to a series hot enough to burn...

The paparazzi can't get enough of infamous bad boy Giovanni Ferraro. But unknown to them--and the women he beds--he's just playing a role. Keeping the spotlight on himself keeps it off the family business. And if this lethal shadow rider can't hunt in the dark, he'll find his pleasure elsewhere...

Sasha Provis grew up on a Wyoming ranch and thought she knew how to protect herself from predators. But in the nightclub where she works, she's fair game--until one of the owners steps in to protect her. Giovanni is gorgeous. He's dangerous. And his every touch takes her breath away.

The devil at her heels may have finally met its match...AMAZON 3 STARS

I hate to say this about a book but it could have been so much better.  It was not what I was expecting.This is the first book that I've read in this series and maybe even this author.  And I was disappointed.  The only reason I didn't give it less stars on the rating system is because it did have a FEW good points.  It had a good idea, good family members and good main characters that I think were wasted in this story.
The many explicit sex scenes overwhelmed the whole story.  That is something that I am NOT a fan of.  
I was also a bit thrown off balance having not read any of the other books.  I really didn't have any idea what Shadow Riders were and what they did.  So, I felt like I was trying to catch up from the very beginning. 
There is danger, action with plots finally being exposed.  Part of that exposure did feel a bit incomplete and a bit thin. 
Is there is a H.E.A for the main characters? Yes.  Will I be reading anymore in this series?  Sadly, no. 

BOOK REVIEW- The Book Charmer (Dove Pond #1) by Karen Hawkins

 Sarah Dove is no ordinary bookworm. To her, books have always been more than just objects: they live, they breathe, and sometimes they even speak. When Sarah grows up to become the librarian in her quaint Southern town of Dove Pond, her gift helps place every book in the hands of the perfect reader. Recently, however, the books have been whispering about something out of the ordinary: the arrival of a displaced city girl named Grace Wheeler.

If the books are right, Grace could be the savior that Dove Pond desperately needs. The problem is, Grace wants little to do with the town or its quirky residents—Sarah chief among them. It takes a bit of urging, and the help of an especially wise book, but Grace ultimately embraces the challenge to rescue her charmed new community. In her quest, she discovers the tantalizing promise of new love, the deep strength that comes from having a true friend, and the power of finding just the right book.
AMAZON    5+ STARS 

This book grabbed me early.  I looked down and discovered that at about 6% of the book I was already falling in love with it. And the more I read the deeper I fell!  Loved, Loved, Loved it!  It was quirky, fun, unusual and so different than other books.  It was also emotional, had quite the challenges not only for the town but also personal challenges for the main characters.
I love the people in the book.  The main people being Sarah, Grace (Mama G and Daisy) and Trav.   Sarah some people called her a book charmer and doesn't the title now make sense?  I also like to think of her as a book whisperer.  She was also charming too.  Not only that but loving, caring, helpful and being the 7th daughter, she also had a magical gift.  Each one of the sisters had a "gift" each one of those gifts being in entirely different areas.  
The whole town had so many interesting people in it that.  That also added a rich flavor to it for me too.  The people in the town were quirky and so real feeling.
I wanted to sit down and read this book all the way through without stopping.  But life intervened so I couldn't do it that way.  But I savored every moment that I was able to read each day and savor it each time. 
I really enjoyed how the book ended even though there were also a few bittersweet moments.  I do hope there are more books about this town and it's people.  Mainly because, come on I need more of Sarah's story.  Her sister Ava also has some things that need to be completed.  Both of those women have a romance story hidden that needs to be worked on and reveled.
 I also can't leave out the humor and the fact that there was more than one time that I laughed out loud.


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

 

BOOK REVIEW- Cold Heart, Warm Cowboy by Caitlin Crews *

Ty Everett ran off to the rodeo when he turned eighteen and has been riding bulls ever since…until his last fall causes partial amnesia and he must return to Cold River Ranch to figure out what comes next. But how can he pick his next move when he can’t remember how he got here in the first place—much less the beautiful woman who appears at the ranch, claims she knows him, and warms his cold heart for the first time since he woke up in the hospital?
Rodeo Queen Hannah Monroe gave up her crown for Ty Everett, and her innocence. What she wants from Ty now is a divorce. But Ty can’t remember her—or their secret wedding, or even the son she never meant to hide from him—and Hannah is torn. How can she leave the man she can’t forget and still loves despite herself? And even if she’s willing to start over, what will happen when the truth comes out?   AMAZON  4

Emotional, Explosively Emotional.  Those are the words that I would use if I had to compact it into just a few.  And there was plenty of angst to go around.  Neither one of the main characters had experienced a delightful childhood either.  They both carried pain and more pain.  And when they re-meet again the pain just goes on for both of them.   But they also have some interesting moments too.  It's not all pain or I wouldn't have continued being interested in the story. It was about some pretty complex people though.
It was interesting to watch the three brothers together.  Ty was hiding who he really was, even with what he could remember.  Hannah was beginning to see that.  She also observed the youngest brother, Brady hid as well.  She saw the business man, the powerhouse that he really was.  And how often he stuffed it down around his brothers, especially Gray.   Gray was pretty much..what you saw was what you got.   Even though from all accounts he had changed for the better after marrying Abby. 
 It was a fight almost every step of the way.  It left me wondering how any things could or would work out for Hannah and Ty.  And also how Ty was going to find out about his son.  I just knew it would be in the worst way possible and I didn't know what his reaction was going to be.  
The book comes to an intense ending, in keeping with the intense nature of the whole book.


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

BOOK REVIEW- A Highlander Walks into a Bar (A Highland, Georgia Novel #1 ) by Laura Trentham

Description

The timeless romance, soaring passion—and gorgeous men—of Scotland comes to modern-day America. And the rules of love will never be the same…

Isabel Buchanan is fiery, funny, and never at a loss for words. But she is struck speechless when her mother returns from a trip to Scotland with a six-foot-tall, very handsome souvenir. Izzy’s mother is so infatuated by the fellow that Izzy has to plan their annual Highland Games all by herself. Well, not completely by herself. The Highlander’s strapping young nephew has come looking for his uncle…

Alasdair Blackmoor has never seen a place as friendly as this small Georgia town—or a girl as brilliant and beguiling as Izzy. Instead of saving his uncle, who seems to be having a lovely time, Alasdair decides he’d rather help Izzy with the Highland Games. Show her how to dance like a Highlander. Drink like a Highlander. And maybe, just maybe, fall in love with a Highlander. But when the games are over, where do they go from here?   AMAZON  4 STARS

As I looked at the book information, I thought what a cute idea.  As I read it, the humor was what got to me the most.  I loved the funny conversations that Isabel (Izzy) and Alasdair had.  Izzy's dad used to be amused by Izzy's "word salad".  I didn't know exactly what that meant until she mentioned that she was prone to have whatever she thought come right out of her mouth.  Then I watched it happen time after time with so many funny outcomes.  She was also called "Dizzy Izzy" because she tended to be accident prone.  Often injuring herself and sometimes those standing too close to her.  Something else that also lent itself to some funny moments. 
Both Alastair and Gareth are hiding some fairly major secrets.  Izzy's mother Rose is the one who brought Gareth back with her.  Scottish souvenir remember?  I just kept wondering when and how those secrets were going to implode! Especially the one that Alastair accidentally set in  motion.  When that one gets revealed it's going to be really bad. 
As charming as the story was, it also felt like it dragged a bit a couple of times.  
On another note I really didn't like how obsessively hovering Alastair's mother was.  I really didn't like her but she does redeem herself towards the end of the story.  That had me changing my mind about her.
I'll be giving this book 4 STARS on Amazon. Not only because I liked the people in the book but  because the humor alone is worth it.  It had me smiling through much of the book.

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

BOOK REVIEW- Veil of Deceit by Judy Lynn

 Prisoner 7578359, Commander Jayla Sans, is innocent. Framed by her own godfather and convicted of treason, she’ll spend the rest of her days on the prison spaceship Tarsha—however few she has left. During her last investigation for the military, she found a vast and insidious conspiracy, and now, various factions will kill to acquire or destroy the information in her head. Jayla must protect the truth at costs, even if that means severing ties with her loved ones. But is Jayla truly alone?
AMAZON  5 STARS

 Wow, this book pulled me in pretty quickly.  It was outstanding!

Kane, what a wily guy.   Every time you think he's contained.  Wham, he hits out of nowhere. How is he doing that?  He's aimed himself violently against Jayla but he isn't the only one.  There are plenty of dangerous people out there beside just him.    
This book was one wild ride that I totally enjoyed.  Unexpected things just kept happening too and kept me totally involved.  I never knew what was going to happen next and where any threat was coming from.  That helped keep the intensity high.  The world building was really well done! 
Jayla was such an interesting main character and I was pulling of her all the way.  Prepare yourself of some violence because the people who want what she knows won't stop when it comes to getting what they want.  Jayla was a skilled fighter but man she was restrained more than once and punched in the face more than once.  Yeah, the opposition didn't fight fair!   
There was also some really good people added into the story without becoming a mishmash of confusion. 
I liked how the story ended although one issue wasn't fully concluded but did have a hopeful outcome.  It also made me wonder if there would be further adventures.  I don't know but I will be keeping an eye out just in case.  
I also wanted to add that I really liked the eBook cover, it does stand out. 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Wind River Protector (Wind River Series Book 8) by Lindsay McKenna *

Description

The new novel from the bestselling author of Home to Wind River.

Real love is worth every risk . . .

Ex-Air Force pilot Andy Whitcomb loves nothing more than the wide blue skies, but when a helicopter crash fighting forest fires in California leaves her injured and shaken, she’s ready to return home to the peace of Wind River Ranch. The good news is, there’s a chance for her to fly helos for the county sheriff’s department. The bad news? The person in charge is none other than Dev Mitchell, an ex-Army Black Hawk pilot—and the rugged, sharp-eyed man Andy has never forgotten after five days together running from the Taliban after a nerve-wracking near-miss in Afghanistan.

Dev can’t believe his eyes when Andy walks into the interview. She’s as strong and sexy as he remembers, and every bit qualified for the job, which she clearly wants. Unfortunately, if he’s going to be her boss, their relationship has to remain strictly professional—a regret Dev fights to keep hidden as they begin to work together. But when a chance encounter with violent drug traffickers forces them into survival mode, both of them will fight to hold on to the connection they can’t ignore—and the chance of a future together. AMAZON 3.5 STARS

 What a heart-pounding start!  It makes for a frantic 5 day race to outrun a very dangerous threat.  Then Andy and Dev lose touch. But it was interesting how they re-connect.
After that point I had mixed feelings about this book.  While both of the main characters were strong interesting people I felt like the story kind of ground down to a super slow pace.  I realized that at about 51% on my kindle that it had happened. There was a lot of angst that I felt like it kind of overtook the story.  I do have to say at the point though there had been other people added to the story that made it a bit fuller.  I also liked that the community of people pulled together to help veterans regardless of color or gender.
One of the things that caused mixed feelings for me was that it just seemed like several points were hammered on again and again.  I got the fact that the issue of abandonment was a big one for Andy and her adopted siblings but it just felt like it went on too long.   Over and over the SAME point about how it interfered with making any trusted serious relationships with the opposite sex.  I just wanted to yell, "Enough of this, move on."  
Both Andy and Dev seemed to run into trouble time after time, so that did provide some action.  

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

BOOK REVIEW- Velvet Ropes (Club Undercover Book 3 ) by Patricia Rosemoor *

Description

No cover charged... no ID required... safety guaranteed...

When Stella Jacobek was brutally attacked as a teen, Dermot O'Rourke appeared like an avenging angel. He tended her to wounds and helped her to heal and find purpose in life. A decade later, Dermot is framed for murder, and Stella, now a homicide detective, is determined to clear his name. In the midst of the clandestine investigation with the help of Team Undercover, evidence connects the violence of the past to their present-day case. Suddenly, Stella is in danger again, and Dermot, a gang member before changing his life, is prepared to keep the only woman he ever loved safe. But will she return his feelings when she knows the whole truth about the past?   AMAZON 4 STARS

Dermot is carrying some pretty heavy secrets and that is including his own past personal history.  But that just made him an even more interesting main character.  He sure has had a variety of career choices in his life. 
Stella or Star as she was called  had her share of pain and darkness before becoming a cop.  I liked where her nickname came from, it made me smile.  Some of the story comes with her trying once again to overcome some of her nightmares.  And this case IS stirring up some of those nightmares again.  It was just what the "enemies" was hoping for though because they wanted her to back off.  She is loyal though and tough when she believes someone is innocent and she will follow through no matter how she is threatened.
 The possible "enemies" just keep circling around and around keeping my interest in who they really are.  And everything that they have been doing.  Equally as interesting though is the people of Club Undercover.   Once again they work really well together.  It still felt like it could be a good standalone story if you hadn't read any of the others.  I have and am looking forward to more in the series.
The book finally comes to a shocking conclusion.   A really good one!

On a side note, I feel like the eBook covers for this series could use a update.  Just my opinion of course. 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Garrett Bravo's Runaway Bride by Christine Rimmer

Part 8 of the Bravos of Justice Creek series

Once again, she's running… When bride-to-be Cami Lockwood finally escapes the clutches of her domineering family, she accidentally stumbles straight into the mountain retreat of the most alluring man she's ever met. Garrett Bravo's never been lucky in love. But that's before a one-of-a-kind heiress rushes headlong onto his doorstep. But this time, she's running toward something! Garrett's mother can't resist matchmaking for her relentlessly unavailable son. So what better way to evade her meddling than to pretend that his accidental arrangement with creative, unique Cami is the real thing? Just one catch: he hadn't bargained on falling head over heels for the runaway bride turned woman of his dreams…AMAZON 3 STARS

This book had really interesting main characters that I enjoyed.  Cami was such a perky, kind of quirky woman who is just trying to be her true self.  Something her family especially father isn't rooting for.  She had a standard a mold to fit and she just doesn't and doesn't want to.  Every time she ran away to be independent some disaster happened where she HAD to return home.  That was so unfair. She's a grown woman with almost zero control of her life even down to the style of clothes she wears. 
Garrett never stood a chance when it came to Cami and I say that with a smile.  It was fun to see him get drawn in even when he wasn't all that eager for a new relationship.   His family had quite the dysfunction to it as well.  And a whole lot of past scandals to overcome. 
I liked how Cami struggled to get free to make her own life and do what she enjoyed.  I practically watched her backbone strengthen.  
Even when it comes to the friendship and romance with Garrett you can see her getting freer and stronger.
It comes to a good conclusion with the mention of Nellie(Garrett's sister) had a story to tell.  "Married till Christmas" tells that story about her and Declan McGrath.  
A quick look into a book by Rachel Lee titled "A Conrad County Courtship" is included at the end of this book.  

BOOK REVIEW- Fast Lane (Calhoun Customs Garage Book 1) by Juanita Kees *

Description

Trinity Calhoun is a name everyone knows on the race circuit, but her days in the hot seat are numbered. She’s tired of the limelight, meaningless relationships and long hours behind the wheel. When her father calls her and her sister home, she’s ready. She slips right back into the family business, finishing off the custom car projects her father has lined up. But racing is in her blood and she’s lured back to risking her life on the hot rod drag strips outside of town. It’s there she meets paramedic and volunteer firefighter, Reece Balmain, who has her re-thinking the road her life is taking.
Reece Balmain arrives in Big Fork a broken man. He’s lived and breathed through horror accidents, haunted by the faces of the people he’s cut from vehicles. He knows one thing–speed kills. He’s hoping not to see too much of it in small town Montana, until he hears about the drag races taking place outside of town. He knows Trinity Calhoun. He’s watched her race, seen her win, held his breath when her car somersaulted into barriers in Daytona Beach. He doesn’t like what she does, but he can’t stay away from the woman who’s claiming his heart.   AMAZON  3 STARS

Good emotional story with interesting, likable main characters. Both Trinity and Reece were highly skilled people with major pain in their lives.  Both having suffered incredibly painful losses and are still healing from. And they both have still more to go through separately.  Of course, their attraction to each other is so strong that it keeps pulling them back to each other.
Trinity had such a wonderfully close family who were there for each other as  much as each family member would allow.  Trinity's father is the glue that has held everyone together for years but now he has a disease that is stripping him of strength.  Chase is Trinity's oldest brother who has also been the glue to the family right alongside their father.  I liked that his nickname that he earned from his siblings is "Mother".  
This story was charming and had many good points but I also feel like it didn't quite fulfill all of it's potential.   For me, maybe it's because it felt like it kept going over and over several things.  I know it needed to establish the challenges the main characters were facing.   
It had a H.E.A. that I liked and one that seemed realistic and hopeful.  I also liked the eBook cover.
  “I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”

BOOK REVIEW- Dangerous Lies (Shades of Leverage Book 2) by Claudia Shelton *

Description

To ex-Navy SEAL Mitch Granger, responsibility isn’t just a word. It’s his Code of Honor. But when assigned to protect Coercion Ten’s latest target, she challenges his authority, defies his rules, and wreaks havoc on his personal willpower. Fighting for her isn’t a problem. Giving his life for her isn’t a problem. Forgetting their world-stopping kiss? Definite problem. And if he can’t concentrate solely on keeping her safe, it may cost them both their lives.
Journalist Liz Walkert’s missing father sent her a cryptic message that she was in danger. What he didn’t tell her was why. Unbeknownst to Liz, her family has been in Witness Protection all her life. Mitch may be her bodyguard, but his protection comes close to being control, the one thing she has none of in his presence. After a kidnap attempt and a narrow escape from attacking CT forces, they both realize they’re going to need to focus on the mission and fight their attraction if they have any hope of surviving.  AMAZON  4 STARS

This book thrived on tense moments.  The dangers were real and just kept escalating.  
The people in the book were good and kept my interest.  
Mitch and Elizabeth (Liz) were strong personalities with their own ways of doing things.  So of course, you know they will be butting heads from the start.  It takes a while for Liz to get on board with being told what to do and when to do it.   She had enough of that as a kid when her dad was super controlling.  That is a whole different but important part of the story. 
It was mentioned that Mitch probably came out of the womb and slid right into responsibility.  And as parts of his history were shared he had taken on a lot of responsibility from a young age.  It took a while for Liz to see the difference between control and being responsible.    The romance part of their story was enjoyable without too much detailed sex being included. 
I have to say that I did have my eyes on a couple of people that I wasn't sure were part of the good guys posse.  One of them I was tossing back and forth between the two camps. 
But the way their true motives were exposed was good and brought a good twist to the story.  
I felt like a few things were left unanswered when it came to the outcomes but it does have a lot of fierce action at the end.  Also includes an Epilogue, which is something I always like.  

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

BOOK REVEIW- SECURITY RISK (Bree & Tanner Book 2) by Janie Crouch

Risking it all—again.
Now his past is threatening both of them.

Deputy Tanner Dempsey paid a high price for an undercover op gone wrong. Nobody understands a dangerous past better than Bree Daniels. Together they have to take on those real-life demons in order to stay alive. Keeping one step ahead of ruthless killers is their only option and risk is their constant companion.   AMAZON

What a stunning beginning!  It was almost like a punch in the stomach and totally unexpected. 

I remember Tanner and Bree's story from Book 1.  And as I read this, it was like re-visiting these people's beginning story. It just takes us deeper into their relationship.  I can also say though that I believe this book can be read without having to read the first book.   Although dang, that first book was really good!
 I liked seeing Bree learning how to re-act to people and learn to be more social with them.  She was a computer genius who had suffered for that skill from childhood.   I made me smile when Tanner acknowledged her big brain as he called it.   I liked how Tanner knew how to give her space when she needed it.  Also how he didn't mind that she did things that seemed odd to other people.  Like when she was in the zone about something, nothing else mattered.  She'd keep researching until she got what she needed.  It didn't matter what time it was or how long it took.  
Someone has a huge hate on for Tanner and the cleverness of that person keeps things jumping.  Things just keep piling up against Tanner.  So called evidence that he is a murderer.  I had my eye on a certain person and lo and behold that was the right one who did everything.  BUT, the twist at the end was good and revealed a whole lot more of the in's and out's of their madness.  And a brutal madness that it was.   
 This whole book became an edge of your seat story.  I really enjoy every minute of it.  And I also enjoyed the developing relationship and romantic interactions between Tanner and Bree.


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

 

BOOK REVIEW- When a Lady Kisses a Scot (Her Majesty’s Most Secret Service Book 4) by Tara Kingston *

Description

Rose Fleming has been presumed dead for the last decade. It required leaving everything—and everyone—she loved behind, including MacAllister Campbell. But faking her death allowed her to stay safe until the threat posed by a mysterious villain had passed. Believing it’s finally safe again, she returns...and runs smack into the only man she ever loved.
But Rose was wrong and the stalker she escaped years ago still has her in his sights.
Ten years ago, Mac mourned the death of the woman he loved. It’s taken years to heal his heart only to discover that not only is Rose still alive, but still in grave danger. Mac can forgive Rose’s deception, but he’d never be able to forgive himself if he didn’t protect her from the evil still stalking her.
The only thing worse than losing her once would be losing her again... and he won’t let that happen.
AMAZON  4  STARS

 This book opens with family members running for their lives, especially Rose.  In fact the whole process of running is to protect her.  No one is exactly sure why someone will kill anyone in their path to get to her, they just know that they exist.
Rose managed to remain hidden from those evil people for 10 years but they have not been easy years.  But she still has to be careful because they haven't given up the hunt and they are on her trail.   But as one person later observed she has a trail of people who keep dying around her.  Especially when she shows up in England.  She definitely does NOT want MacAllister to one of them.  
MacAllister was always a pretty skilled man when he was younger but he's just gotten more skilled and tougher with age.  As the story unfolds the reader gets a better view of the resources he also has now. It also helps introducing some good secondary people.
It's pretty clear that neither of them ever forgot the other.
There is action and a cat and mouse chase in the story.  But on the down side it felt like it kind of stalled a time or two.  It also felt like several issues were gone over and over a few more times than I would have liked. It slowed the story.  But other than that it was a pretty decent story.
How about that eBook cover?  That was attention getting!  

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

BOOK REVIEW- Steel Coyote by Beth Williamson

Description

The universe is a tough place to make it as a female cargo ship captain, and Remington Hawthorne fights every day to scrape by. A sketchy deal goes south, and although she doesn’t want anyone else to touch her ship, she’s forced to accept help from the stranger who calls himself Max Fletcher. He’s hot. And he’s trouble. Big trouble. But she’s out of time, out of money, and every crooked cartel is on her tail.
Max Fletcher has spent his life running from his past. So he has no idea what makes him offer to bail out tall, gorgeous, sassy Remy when she needs a pilot to get her illegal cargo to its destination—the last place in the universe he ever wanted to land again.
One thing’s for sure, it’s gonna be a helluva ride.      AMAZON 5 STARS

I didn't start out thinking that this was going to be worthy of a 5 Star rating on Amazon.  In fact when it started out I thought, " Okay, it seems like it could be a fairly decent story." And then the language got a bit rough so this is definitely a story for the adult crowd. So was the fairly descriptive sex scenes that appear.  But then I started falling in the love with the story. It's wasn't sex with a thin story pieces around it.  It was a FULL story in which two adults get together sexually.   The good thing is that it doesn't take over the story.
 Mainly the characters grabbed me first and then the action just kept getting better and better.  It got to the point where it felt like just about everyone was after them for one reason or another. And of course the inevitable question comes up.  How in the world are they going to get out of this alive? And are ALL of them going to make it out alive?  And even if they do live is their lives going to be worse?


Remy had a collection of people who were what was left of her crew. But they were more than just a crew to her, they were family.   Katie, and Foley are who are left and each were there when her father Gunner ran the ship.  Foley was described as someone who is almost blind and often breaks the things he tries to fix but is and always has been faithful to this group of people.  Katie is described as a tiny terror, a tough tiny adversary who doesn't take any guff and knows how to kick butt.  
Another VERY interesting and surprising character is Saint.  I loved him! He is the Moral Compass for  Max.  I thought he made for a unusual but good addition to the story.  The relationship between Max and Saint was quite entertaining.  They also pick up two other people along the way.  Their names are Morgan and Mason and they have quite a story too.
The world building in the story I thought was pretty well done. 
Although it was sad I also liked the story about how Remy got her name.  
Max has depths that he keeps really well hidden.  He keeps it hidden by smiling and having an easy-going attitude hoping that people won't look any deeper.  It helps him keep people at arm's length.  But he's also lonely not really finding anywhere that he can call home. The two main characters had such different childhoods but as time goes on they find they actually do have a lot in common.
Mysteries, dangers and surprises hit the fan as things come to a head during dangerous confrontations.  It was great and a good Epilogue follows. 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Traitor Games (Tarnished Heroes Book 3) by Sidney Bristol

 Each book in the Tarnished Heroes series is STANDALONE:

Description

The latest installment in the Tarnished Heroes series from New York Times bestselling author Sidney Bristol.
Noah White has done a lot of bad things for the CIA, but this time they've crossed the line. He knows the kill order he's been given is a set-up and the intended target is another covert agent. They’ve finally found a line Noah won’t cross. Not with her.
Lillian Matthews is living in the crosshairs and she knows it. While her friends are spread out over the globe gathering intelligence on a rogue covert agency, it's her job to keep them all connected. Only now she's the target. And her unlikely ally is the last man she'd expect.
Lillian will have to make the biggest sacrifice of her life, because Noah will stop at nothing to protect her.  AMAZON 5 STARS

Tense.  That would be a good way to describe this book.  Especially in the beginning of it.  I was up to 15% on my kindle and already a whole lot has happened.  You can almost "taste" the danger! 
Noah is a total stone-cold killer.  Or is he? There is a whole lot more to him that you would think at first.  Oh, he was a killer all right and he'd done a whole lot of awful things in the name of his country.  Not too many people can change him from his course when he makes up his mind.  But then.. Lillian happened.  And suddenly he began to do things differently than he ever imagined he would.  He often calls her Lily and blows hot and cold dealing with her.  One of the reasons is to keep her alive but also because he knows that no  way is he good for her.
Lillian has been hiding depths that few people knew about.  It kind of bugged me that her sister Cami got the family business just handed to her.  She was the face of the business but Lillian was the brains and guts.  Cami's controlling ways were really irritating because come on, really?  She's going to try to dictate all that she did?    
I had to agree with one of the characters thoughts that they had a whole lot stacked against them.  I had that very same thought.  Lillian's first thoughts about her earlier interactions with Noah made her think he was a jerk.  A dangerous one but still a jerk.  Imagine her surprise when she spends more time with him and sees another side of him.  
The tension and the needed moving around of the good guys and gals kept things interesting.  There were several teams of people we got to see and how they helped as much as they could.  Considering most of them were on the run trying to stay alive.  The intensity and action keeps up throughout the story. It's also done without sacrificing the quality of the depth of each person.
Great, intense conclusion to the story as well. 



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

BOOK REVIEW- Lost and Found Sisters by Jill Shalvis

They say life can change in an instant…

After losing her sister in a devastating car accident, chef Quinn Weller is finally getting her life back on track. She appears to have it all: a loving family, a dream job in one of L.A.'s hottest eateries, and a gorgeous boyfriend dying to slip an engagement ring on her finger. So why does she feel so empty, like she's looking for a missing piece she can't find?

The answer comes when a lawyer tracks down Quinn and reveals a bombshell secret and a mysterious inheritance that only she can claim. This shocking revelation washes over Quinn like a tidal wave. Her whole life has been a lie.

On impulse, Quinn gives up her job, home, and boyfriend. She heads up the coast to the small hometown of Wildstone, California, which is just a few hours north, but feels worlds apart from Los Angeles. Though she doesn't quite fit in right away, she can't help but be drawn to the town’s simple pleasures…and the handsome, dark-haired stranger who offers friendship with no questions asked.

As Quinn settles into Wildstone, she discovers there's another surprise in store for her. The inheritance isn't a house or money, but rather something earthshattering, something that will make her question everything she thought she knew about herself, about her family. Now with a world of possibilities opening up to Quinn, she must decide if this new life is the one she was always meant to have—and the one that could finally give her the fulfillment she's searched so long for.
 AMAZON 5 STARS

I've been looking forward to reading this story for quite a while.  In fact from the very first moment I heard about it. This author has done it again.  I enjoyed every moment of it and just ate it up in one day!
Whew.  I am so glad that the story didn't disappoint.  
The main characters were great.  I really enjoyed their depth.  And the agony of the things they were going through or had gone through.  Qui,nn's life was turned upside down for sure but so was Tilly's.  I'm not saying who she is you will just have to read it to find out who she is and how she fits in the story.    Mick is a good guy who shows up in her life while she is "temporarily" in Wildstone.  He helps her more than once and is a steady guy even though neither one of them is looking for anything permanent.  Yeah, that's when some of the best stuff happens.
I also liked some of the people who were unique characters in the community of Wildstone.  They added to the fun, making things to smile at when things got tough.
I do have to say I laughed or smiled more than once at some of the truly funny conversations that happened between Quinn and Mick.  Well, not not only Mick.   It seems like anyone encountering conversations with Quinn had the opportunity to have some pretty funny conversations. That made it one of the things I liked best.   I liked how one person said that she was amusing to watch, that she was the Quinn Show. 
I liked how the story ended and the Epilogue was a good plus.

There is also a quick look into another book called, "Wrapped up in You" which is another book that I have wanted to read.

BOOK REVIEW- The Sheikh's American Daughter by Kate Goldman

  

 Olivia is a normal twenty-three-year-old girl from Atlanta. Her life dramatically changes when her mother dies and leaves a will stating that Olivia’s father is alive and she should go find him in Lebanon. When she arrives in Lebanon, she’s surprised to find out that her father is a wealthy sheikh. It angers her to see him living such a good life, and yet she and her mother struggled to make ends meet. Before she can return to the United States, she gets entangled in a crazy situation when she meets the green-eyed, impossibly handsome, tall and muscular Sheikh Joseph Boutros. He comes to her father’s house to choose a bride among his daughters but decides that he wants to marry Olivia instead. Can Olivia unravel the mystery of her birth and fight her emerging feelings for a man who doesn’t take “no” for an answer?  AMAZON  3 STARS

I liked the eBook cover and the plot idea but I was hoping to actually like the book more.  Although both of the M.C.'s were pretty good as far as things went.  Joseph ended up being more likable than at first.  And Olivia was spunky but also kind.
Most of the players in the story were kind of on the shallow side when it came to depth.  Even Olivia's long lost father seemed to be kind of all surface and I didn't feel a  He also seemed kind of weak when it came to dealing with his wife and his other children.  Sure, he was caught in an emotional bind but it was still kind of odd just the same.  
Olivia has two half-sisters and a half-brother. Her half-brother is somewhat amused from the fireworks that he expects from Olivia's revelation.  The half-sisters and her father's wife make sure continually that Olivia knew she wasn't wanted there.  They were incredibly rude and condescending.  She was so tired of all the fighting and after awhile I had to say, "Right there with you, sister."
The anger and emotions were definitely a part of the story and they were well done.  
There is a surprise twist at the end but it doesn't end up being a huge one.  The story does work it's way to a H.E.A.
One other thing that I just have to mention is the phrase I read over and over again.  "She/he crossed her/his eyebrows."  What the heck does that mean?    The usual phrase of "she raised her eyebrows" I get but the other one not so much.   And it was used WAY too much!
It happened so often it became irritating to me and kind of interrupted the story flow for me.

BOOK REVIEW- Temptation's Darling by Johanna Lindsey

Description

#1 New York Times bestselling author Johanna Lindsey blends passion and humor in a dazzling Regency-era novel in which a disastrous debutante becomes the toast of the town with a little help from a friend of the Prince Regent’s.

Threatened by powerful enemies, William Blackburn, Earl of Ketterham, lives in exile in the Scottish Highlands with his daughter Vanessa. When she comes of age William urges her to return to her mother in England to make her debut. Raised with all the advantages and freedom a boy would have, Vanessa doubts she can fit into the mold of a proper young lady. Still, she agrees to re-enter fashionable society, determined to end the vendetta against her father, never imagining the high price she will have to pay.

Lord Montgomery Townsend enjoys living on the edge, courting danger as he fixes potentially scandalous problems for the Prince Regent. While hiding out at the home of the Countess of Ketterham, Monty watches a disaster-in-the-making as his hostess tries to prepare her estranged daughter for a match with the pompous son of a powerful family. Puzzled as to why independent-minded Vanessa submits to being turned into a puppet and wants to marry the arrogant rogue, Monty nonetheless steps in to make her dreams come true. But no good deed goes unpunished and soon he faces more pressing problems, including the temptation to upend Vanessa’s wedding plans so he can marry her himself!   AMAZON 3 STARS

I enjoyed the time that Vanessa was given with her father.  It freed her up so much to be herself and not all the rigid society rules of her mother.  I also liked the fact that Vanessa or Nessa as she was often called had the gumption to run away with her father.  Not that he knew at first that she had smuggled herself aboard with him.  It was pretty bold at any time but for her young age it was even more courageous.  
I hate to say it but her mother was a twit.  But then maybe it was also the way that she was raised without the tools to really think much for herself.  When Nessa gets more of the facts from her mother about being part of the reason William got exiled?  She promptly nails her mother with what she would have done in her position.  Astonishment was part of her mother's response.  She never thought of those very reasonable ideas.  Duh.   I also didn't like that she was practically selling Nessa in order to get her family back together.  How did she think her husband was going to thank her for that?  What is this woman thinking???
I liked Monty because although he has been branded a rake, he does have honor.  He is also charming, likable and responsible.  The  "friendship" between the him and Nessa was also fun to listen to.  I liked that he wasn't as bad as he was painted.  BUT, he was also kind of careless when the two of them had their "moments" together. 
Two other characters that Monty was trying to hide also provided some interesting times along with a surprise or two towards the end.  
Nessa's twin sisters also added some to the story especially Emily.  Who was more aggressive of the twins.  She was more like Nessa but she also had some issues she needed to deal with too.   Layla, the other twin was so much the peacemaker that she would have been invisible without her beauty. 
While I enjoyed the story, I also felt it was a bit too long and kind of dragged at a point or two.  Maybe nobody else felt that way but I was just wanting it to move on. Which when it finally did, came up with those surprises I mentioned and a good ending.  Looking for a H.E.A.?  Yes, there is one.   
On a final note I thought the eBook cover was attractive.   

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

BOOK REVIEW- Her Counterfeit Husband by Ruth Ann Nordin

 A conspiring duchess. An amnesiac doppelgänger. Can hearts be true in the midst of double deception?

Anna feels little anguish when she sees the dead body of her husband. The young widow has no plans to mourn over the cruel Duke of Watkins, but she knows that his untimely death will put her at the mercy of his malicious younger brother. With help from her loyal butler, Anna smuggles away the body in the dead of night…

Anna hopes to keep her husband’s death a secret until she’s settled far from the reach of her spiteful brother-in-law. When she stumbles upon an unconscious, wounded man who bears an uncanny resemblance to the Duke, she wonders if she’s found the solution to all their problems. The stranger wakes up with no memories of his life, and Anna wastes no time convincing him of the lie…

As her husband’s doppelgänger begins to treat her like true royalty, Anna succumbs to his affections. Just when she thinks the charade is in the clear, the truth bubbles to the surface. Can Anna convince the amnesiac of her love before losing her husband a second time?   AMAZON 3.5 STARS

I found this to be enjoyable, quick story with a great outcome.  It had some twists and surprises as well as good main characters. Yes, I know some of it was unlikely but I enjoyed it anyway.
What a life Anna had been forced to life.  Her husband, the Duke was one nasty piece of work.  And his death relieved her of a lot of pain and trouble.  But it didn't remove all of them.    Lord Mason tried to hide it but he was over eager to see his brother die so that he could have the title and everything else.  He also was under the idea that she would be his when his brother died and it didn't have anything to do with love.  
Talk about being at the right place, at the right time.  That would be true about the second main character in this book.  No, he wasn't in good shape when he was found but at least he did recover.  And with "the stranger" as Anna had to think of him came the first gentleness, kindness and humor she ever experienced from a husband.
I can't leave this review without mentioning at least one man who really had always been in her corner.  Since he was a butler in the household there was only so much he could do but he did the best that he could.  Appleton and Anna had such kind friendship.  It was more like a father-daughter relationship.  I did like that.
The bad, bad guy,  Lord Mason's story comes with an ironic twist.   
Epilogue included.  I always like that as well.  

BOOK REVIEW- Irresistible Heroes by Multiple Authors including Stephanie Queen

You Need A Hero...

Everyone needs a hero and you're sure to find yours in this steamy premiere series, featuring strong heroes and heroines in this collection of SEVEN BRAND NEW NEVER BEFORE PUBLISHED STORIES from eight multi-award winning, New York Times and USA Today bestselling authors.

Does your dream man fight fires or catch bad guys as a cop or undercover? Maybe he's a doctor saving lives? Perhaps he's a military man, who's put his life on the line as a wounded warrior or working security?

You'll find each of these stories simply...IRRESISTIBLE.

Two Hearts Unlikely Heroes: Tamara Ferguson, USA Today bestselling author: When wounded warrior Captain Samantha Caldwell is being targeted by a terrorist in Crystal Rock after killing their leader in Iraq, can AFOSI Agent Captain Ben Nash keep her safe?

Simply Love: Natalie Ann, USA Today bestselling author: Being strong doesn't make you a hero, but doing what is right does.

She's Having A Baby: Suzanne Jenkins, USA Today bestselling author: During the worst fire season in California history, a wildland fire changes life for Mike and Aisling Saint and their best friend.

Johnny's Girl: Cynthia Cooke, USA Today bestselling author: Will he choose the mission or the girl?

Fire Me Up: Alicia Street, USA Today bestselling author: After an FDNY fireman loses his fiancée to a rich Wall Streeter, he seeks a new start in a sleepy village on Long Island's North Fork, only to fall for a shy schoolteacher who shakes up his world like never.

SEAL of Refuge: Alyssa Bailey, USA Today bestselling author: Becoming vulnerable for a chance at true happiness takes a special kind of courage.

Never Gone: Stephanie Queen, USA Today bestselling author: Joe is a regular guy from Boston--except when he's called on by the Zero Go Team. So when he's sent to protect a sexy Hollywood costume designer, the last thing he expects is a crazy attraction that's anything but regular.

Handle With Care: Patrice Wilton, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author: An ER doctor and a wounded veteran find each other, but can their love survive? 

AMAZON 4 STARS

So far I've only read a few of the stories in this group of books but my thinking is that it is well worth the price.

Never Gone by Stephanie Queen-
Mary Ann Monday or "Mae" as she is called is one interesting character.  She was NOTHING like I'd been expecting but I quickly feel in love with how real she was.  I liked how she "owned" who she was but wasn't mean about it.  She was also incredibly good at reading people.  That is something that Joe was continually surprised by.  I liked that she called him Average Joe in her head.  But that was compared to the glitz falseness of Hollywood.  She knew deep down that there was NOTHING average about him. 
Joe didn't know what to make of Mae at first, because he'd never met anyone like her before.  It was interesting when he thought of her as a sex kitten  but that she was just naturally sensual.  It didn't take long for him to realize that she had other good qualities as well.  That made it all that much harder for him to distance himself since he wanted to be professional.  Sleeping with his client was a big no-no.  But don't think he always succeeds because there will be steam as well as the danger that is mentioned.
It has a good ending that satisfied me.
    AND- 
The other book that I read is by an author that I don't think I've read before.  I thought this was a good way to read authors new to me. 
Simply Love by Natalie Ann-
I liked the emotions that are played out for both of the main characters.  They have their own dysfunctional family pain.  But I liked how Gemma overcame something that you don't always hear written about in a story.  I liked that she was shy but was strong and getting stronger all the time.  She was becoming more the person she wanted and needed to be.
Her family, what a nightmare they were.  She should have booted them out and KEPT them out of her life.  They were toxic!!   Her Aunt Julie was the only one worth keeping.  She was her biggest and only champion and always had been.
Blake was a really good guy and it didn't take me long to adore how he treated Gemma.  He appreciated her right where she was at.  I was fun to watch them grow together.  Because his family challenge for him was that he had a  family that was never there for him either.  His challenges were different but he craved normal  and loving, faithful relationship with a woman who loved him. 
There get to their H.E.A. as they work through their emotional baggage. 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Coming to Her Rescue by Katie Knight

 When Navy SEAL Jake Hendrix attends a charity bachelor/bachelorette auction as a favor for a friend, he’s stunned to see his squad mate’s gorgeous sister, Hanna Masterson, walk across the stage. She’s grown even more stunning in the years since he’d met (and very nearly made out with) her at the end of basic training. When Jake overhears other bidders talking about her, his alpha protector instinct kicks in and he decides to bid on her himself. He thinks he’s saving her. What he didn’t expect was how upset she’d be at him.

Hanna has developed a checklist of qualities she wants in a man. Someone reliable, dependable, and family oriented who can provide for her and their children. She doesn’t need the likes of Jake Hendrix—smoking hot as he is—getting in the way of her man hunt. She’d been hoping the auction might pair her with a potential long-term match, but alas she just got her brother’s hot squad mate who has “one night only” written all over him.

But the date actually goes well—really well. Best sex of her life well. But the following day, Jake immediately pulls back, just as she expected. Romance only gets in the way of doing his job: protection has no room for passion. Resigned to their night together being nothing more than a blip in the road, Hanna’s unsettled when a pregnancy test turns that blip into a major speedbump.

Before she can tell Jake she’s pregnant, something far more unexpected lands on her plate. One of her high-profile clients has been murdered, and because he’s shared certain information with Hanna, the killers will stop at nothing to silence her.

Despite his promises to stay uninvolved, Jake can’t help but protect Hanna, baby bump and all, insisting they go on the run as they dig deeper into the dangerous situation they’ve found themselves in. But as the threat closes in on their secluded safe house, their biggest problem might just be falling in love and losing it all…AMAZON 3 STARS

I had high hopes for this book since I had read a different book by Katie Knight and liked it.  However, when I was about 38% on my kindle I just wasn't feeling the connection.
As the story went on, I got tired of Jake re-hashing of how his life of being in the military was all he could focus on.  That he needed to distance himself from Hanna.     Even though Hanna kept mentioning the spark between them, I just wasn't feeling it.  Something was missing.   It just felt like a shallow connection for me the reader.  
Hanna did some stupid stuff considering she should know she was facing some serious danger.  She keeps thinking how much the baby means to her but she must have pregnancy brain when it comes to some of her decisions. 

Of course Jake made one decision towards the end that had me shaking my head.  I wasn't sure if I wanted to cry or scream.  

I didn't hate this book but it just wasn't my cup of tea.  Will I read any other books by Katie Knight?  Of course, because I had liked the other book.  I'm sure other people might enjoy this book more than I did.  Everyone has different tastes after all. 
 I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

BOOK REVIEW- Alien Aladdin by Zara Zenia

 A disgraced alien king on the run. A human female detective determined to find him. A fated love neither expected.

Since the Trilyn’s made their pact with the people of Earth, Prince Akrawn has been struggling to find his genetically compatible human mate while also dealing with distrust from his own brothers.

When an apparent misunderstanding makes Prince Akrawn public enemy number one, rather than face the legal ramifications on Earth or return to his home planet, he chooses to disappear into the streets of San Francisco, but the human authorities aren’t going to let him go that easily.

Brilliant SFPD Detective Catherine “Cat” O’Shea is tasked with tracking him down with the assistance of her AI. While Cat learns more about Akrawn and starts to believe he may not be responsible for the crime he’s accused of, she has no idea he’s using the same technology to spy on her and has become fascinated with the tenuous and beautiful woman.
Forced on the run together by a nefarious entity set on destroying them and gaining control over the Trilyn, can Akrawn and Cat see past all the reasons they may wrong for each other to the truth of their destiny?    AMAZON 3 STARS

The plot idea was a good one and the main characters were good ones.  They were good especially in their differences.  However, it seems like although there was a lot of running around.  With not a whole lot being accomplished when it came to the who or what was behind all the chaos. After while I began to find that a little tedious.   It did give Cat and Akrawn time to get to know each other but that didn't always work out well for them. 
It didn't take long for me to be shaking my head over Akrawn's father King Zavir. Cat hit the nail on the head when she called him a dimwit.   I was calling him stupid long before that.  And some of the actions of the earth lawmen was right up there with people ranked as stupid.  David Davon was Cat's work partner.  But I wondered about him after awhile.  The balance of power seemed to be somewhat skewed in his favor.  I also sometimes questioned the intelligence of loud mouth Captain Brontsen who is Cat's boss.  All these things and more make for misunderstanding after misunderstanding bringing things to near disaster more than once.    
It did get a bit technical towards the end that I didn't enjoy quite so much.   But the actual world building of the ships and homelands that I did enjoy.
I do have to say that things work out well in a H.E.A. for our main characters.  And the Epilogue does give a good look at how some things ended.   But it also leaves the door open for further adventures because two of the villains did escape for now.  I have to say that I wasn't really surprised on who they were.   Although some of their motives and maneuvers I hadn't quite figured all the way out.

 I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

BOOK REVIEW- Alien Protector's Rescued Bride by Juno Wells

 When hope is dimmest, a ray of light breaks through...

Daisy

Being abducted from Earth was terrifying. When the fish-headed, aquatic aliens took me I knew I was in trouble. Thankfully I was raised to be a fighter.

I've struggled against my captors at every turn but how many times can a girl get beat down before coming to realize you can't win? It's wearing me down and I'm finally coming to realize there's no Prince Charming coming to rescue me.

I can't give up though, not yet. In a desperate attempt I join up with another girl from Earth and this time I'm either getting free or else. There is no other option, I can't live like this.

Then the floor shakes and winged demons from hell invade. At least they're fighting the aquatics but is this a rescue or am I trading one master for another?

In this battle it's not just my life at stake, this time my heart is on the line too.

Darnok

Another mission, one more battle. Maybe this will be my last, maybe not. I can't bring myself to care anymore.

Being bigger than all the other warriors my entire life has been one lone string of abuse. The other males pick fights with me to prove how tough they are and the Queens abuse me because I'm so big I always stand out. All they see is the giant, none of them see the person I am.

None of them see my dreams or my desire to be accepted. How I want someone to love me for me. Even my one friend barely sees because in this world I have to hide that part of me away.

There is no compassion in my world. There is nothing to live for except to fight. Go to the next battle and see if this time it's my last. It doesn't matter, there is no other end for me. Sooner or later, it will happen and I've accepted it. At least then my suffering will end.

Until this mission. Until I meet the human female Daisy. Then everything changes. I'll fight all of them to save her, to make her mine. She is the light in my universe and I'm not going to let it fade.
AMAZON 4 STARS


When I saw this book information I took a chance.  I was thinking it's either going to be lame or it's going to be good.  It actually turned out to be pretty good. When Daisy stops being afraid of the "men" on board the rescue ship, there was actually some tender moments between Daisy and Darnok.  It was kind of amusing when Darnok this huge warriors is on the run AWAY from spending time in Daisy's presence.  Of course, it was both funny and kind of sad why he was doing that.   Of course there will be the required "alien" sex but I like that it wasn't the whole story. 
This book turned out to be a wild fantasy ride with some really good world building.  The aliens, the culture of Darnok's race, and the re-building of worlds was pretty imaginative.  
The emotions were also there, especially the suffering that Darnok went through.   And how messed up the men of his world were when it came to how they were valued or not.   
Daisy was also a really good main character, who became so beaten down from all the things she went through.  Physically, emotionally she was pretty much on empty. Still it didn't take all that long for her regain her strength when someone weaker is threatened. 
I liked how the story ended and the Epilogue shows some of the new beginnings that have taken place. I didn't realize until I finished reading the book that there was a Glossary at the end.  It was a nice touch and added to the story but I guess for me it wasn't that hard to enjoy the gist of the book anyway.
 Before I forget, there was also some humor in this story as well.  That's something that I always enjoy.

 I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

BOOK REVIEW- Blood Cure (New Breed Book 3) by Melody Raven*

 He was like nothing she'd ever seen before. Impossibly strong. Impossibly dangerous. Just plain impossible. And also dying.

Mia Bishop has lived a sheltered life surrounded by her studies and under her father's watchful eye. But when her father brings home a sick man who seems to defy the laws of physics, everything she thought she knew about the natural world will be tested.

Talon is just another casualty in the war between the Vampires and the Vopura. His pride and impatience got the better of him and because of that not only did he almost die, but he brought death straight to Mia's doorstep.

He knows Mia will never forgive him for what she's lost. He knows Mia will never forgive him for what she's become. But she's going to have to get over it. Because when all hope is lost, the knowledge inside her mind will be his species' only chance at survival.   AMAZON 4 STARS

This story definitely began with a screaming start.  And it continued with really good action, action throughout. 
 Mia and Talon couldn't be more different if they tried but sure made for interesting main characters.  Mia was a scientist to the bone but what other chances had she had.  She was super smart raised by a genius but clueless father.  Also meaning that she had minimal social contact with others.  And not just because of her background but because she has been in a lifelong fight to just survive. 
If you like a story with plenty of surprises (which I do) you'll love this book. 
I do have to mention that there is some steamy language and some steamy sex scenes but they don't overtake the story.  Something that I am thankful for. 

I just have to mention how stunning this eBook cover is.  I really liked that too. 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Cold Aim by Janice Cantore

Description

Police Chief Tess O’Rourke’s small town is still reeling from a devastating fire when the FBI asks for help: Could she shelter a witness in a high-profile human trafficking case? Initially reluctant to put the townspeople of Rogue’s Hollow at risk, Tess is swayed after she sees Pastor Oliver Macpherson’s genuine conviction to rescue those in need, a trait in him she’s coming to love more each day.

Tess’s fledgling faith is tested when crews of workmen from out of town come in to assist with the fire cleanup and she worries that one of these strangers might shine a light on things best kept hidden. Neither she nor Oliver knows that Rogue’s Hollow is already home to a suspect from a twenty-five-year-old murder case . . . and someone is taking cold aim at those Tess is sworn to protect.
AMAZON 5 STARS

The drama starts early; right from the start in fact.  And it just keeps coming.  It also had me guessing all over the place.  Especially about who Livie Harp was and why she was so security obsessed.  Not only security obsessed but being independent without the need for outside reliance.  
That's not the only thing that got my attention though.  There is plenty of drama and action being played out. There are several other mysteries and dramas being played out as well as the main one.   Speaking of action, there is plenty of that.  I felt like it was a well written story with some strongly evil people.  Not only evil but really clever.   They were also people who had evaded the law for quite a while.   Get the feeling that this town and this chief is going to be part of where that comes grinding to a halt?
  It also had strong main characters and a supporting cast of people.  Some of the issues that the people of Rogue's Hollow was facing were unique but some were also typical of a small community.  There was actually a fairly large cast of people to the story but after a few chapters it wasn't that hard to keep up.
For those that want to know there are some heavy  subjects to address but also a strong Christian faith being a part of the story too.  

I liked how Oliver, the pastor and Tess worked and struggled together.  People kept trying to tell them that they were just too different and far apart in their way of life to be a good match.  Even the people in his church felt that Oliver needed a different kind of woman.  How typical that a least one older woman felt she had to keep poking her nose in their business, trying to tell them how to live.  You know she didn't just stop with Oliver but let Tess know her negative thoughts as well. At least she didn't throw in a "Thus said the Lord," because you know she never asked him.  
I was extremely happy with how the book ended and with the Epilogue as well. 
There is also a small section with Discussion Questions at the end of the book.  
 

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