Tuesday, December 31, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- Rosanna's Gift by Susan Lantz Simpson *



Description

BOOK REVIEW- Much Ado about a Widow (The Widows' Club Book 4) by Jenna Jaxon *



Description

Monday, December 30, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- Forever My Duke ( Unlikely Duchesses) by Olivia Drake *



Description

Thursday, December 26, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- The SEAL's Unexpected Triplets by Katie Knight *


 Book Details
Cora Caspian has been nanny to adorable triplet girls since the day they were born. But when their parents die in a tragic fire, she’s more than a bit stunned when their will dictates that a particular former Navy SEAL become the girls’ co-guardian with her. She’ll be in charge of the girls’ health and happiness…and William Royce will keep them safe. Of all the men in the hired security firm, William seems to her to be the least likely to take care of three toddlers. He’s all alpha male, muscle, and military might—not at all what the girls need. And certainly not at all what Cora needs—even if he is the sexiest man she’s ever seen. Having been raised as a military brat, she knows what it’s like to grow up in a home with a man who puts duty first and feelings last—just like William. Turns out, though, William is nothing like her father. He takes his job seriously, but he’s good with the girls in a way she never could have anticipated. And when he’s alone with Cora, good doesn’t begin to describe how he is…

As an orphan with no idea how to be part of a family, being named guardian of three toddlers just might be William’s worst nightmare. Even worse is sharing a home with their stunningly attractive nanny-turned-mother, who’s made it perfectly clear she thinks he’s the wrong man for the job. But when it becomes apparent someone’s trying to harm the triplets, William’s protective feelings get riled up. Cora is riling up feelings too, ones he can’t ignore. Suddenly, being part of a real family may be what his lonely life needs—even if it’s only temporary.

As the danger to the triplets grows, William realizes all the warm and fuzzy feelings are getting in the way of his duty. To protect the triplets, he’ll have to put up a wall between the new family he’s built, but losing Cora and the triplets might just destroy him.

                               4 STARS

The unusual story line in the book information is that first thing that grabbed my attention. I'm glad that I picked up the book because I did like it.
Paige, Melody and Haley (the triplets) were a handful and they are wearing Cora down to the bone.  But she loves them with every ounce of her being and will do whatever it takes to protect them.  Which brings her to the uncomfortable presentation of William being brought in.   It's more than a suggestion though that he be a part of their household.  The girl's dead parents had made it a part of the guardianship for the triplets.  An unusual condition but it soon becomes clear just how necessary it is.  It does take a while to get to the point where the danger really stands out.  But during that time, "the girls" and Cora start to work better as a team with William.  As you can expect though there will be some flare ups!
Each little girl has such a distinct personality.  Paige is the leader with kind of an Alpha like personality.  Melody is the smiling, cheerful one, who only pushes back when she needs to.  Haley is the quieter, shy one, who is very tenderhearted.  It was interesting to watch as time went on how other strengths started to show up as time went on.  William is very secure in his ability to keep everyone safe.  Not so secure when it comes to interactions with kids.  We do find out through his actions that he has abilities in that area that he didn't know he had.  After a few things happen he begins to question those security abilities because of his split attention with Cora and the girls.  More than once he cuts himself off from them to keep them safe. You can just image the confusion that causes and not just for them. One of the cute quirks that Cora had that made me smile was when she got a chance to read, she left odd bookmarks in a book. 
I had someone on my radar as a suspect when it came to who was threatening the girls and it turns out that I was right.  But that didn't ruin things for me because curiosity kept me going.  What other dangers are going to be thrown at the "family" and how does the villain get found out? The "why" is always a nice touch but not too hard to figure out.  I wanted the "Who",and "How" exposed and overcome.
Cora and Williams have their moments of "heat" as they struggle to overcome their baggage about a true romance.  
It all ends with a smile-worthy Epilogue. 


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

Monday, December 23, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- Cut and Run by Fern Michaels *


Description  -THE 30TH SISTERHOOD NOVEL

Sunday, December 22, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- A Princess in Theory (Reluctant Royals #1) by Alyssa Cole *

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Between grad school and multiple jobs, Naledi Smith doesn’t have time for fairy tales…or patience for the constant e-mails claiming she’s betrothed to an African prince. Sure. Right. Delete! As a former foster kid, she’s learned that the only things she can depend on are herself and the scientific method, and a silly e-mail won’t convince her otherwise.
Prince Thabiso is the sole heir to the throne of Thesolo, shouldering the hopes of his parents and his people. At the top of their list? His marriage. Ever dutiful, he tracks down his missing betrothed. When Naledi mistakes the prince for a pauper, Thabiso can’t resist the chance to experience life—and love—without the burden of his crown.
The chemistry between them is instant and irresistible, and flirty friendship quickly evolves into passionate nights. But when the truth is revealed, can a princess in theory become a princess ever after?   AMAZON LINK
                                                      4 STARS


This book was different, a bit unusual in it's plot.  But I liked it.  Well, at first I wasn't sure and kept swinging back and forth about it.   Still, the interesting people with complex personalities drew me in When I got to know them it was easy to like them.  Even as different as they were.  Naledi got my sympathy pretty quickly not only because of her childhood but also because of a hardworking life that got little credit.  She was beyond tired but look at all that she is trying to juggle.

 Thabiso has a lot to learn and Naledi (or Ledi as she is often called) is right there to teach him how the regular people live.  It leads to some pretty funny situations.  
This story was not only funny, but it was emotional, romantic with a mix of some mysteries.   There were several well hidden secrets that need discovery.  And they do get exposed.
Something that added to the story was Thabiso's personal assistant Likotsi who has known him for years and keeps him on track.
Ledi had her friend Portia who keeps things interesting too. 
The only thing I didn't care for was the goddess angle but  it is part of that story's culture.   It also doesn't totally take over the story, so there is that.
 

Saturday, December 21, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- The Duke's Desire (12 Dukes of Christmas Book 8) by Erica Ridley *



Description

Friday, December 20, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- Contact: (a sci-fi alien romance) By Susan Grant

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 Abducted!

When First Officer Jordan Cady’s 747 is snatched from the sky by an immense UFO, she must put aside her own fears and take charge, exactly what the single mother of a six-year old daughter knows how to do. With no power or communications to the plane, Jordan and her crew are far from understanding who—or what—has hijacked them, until an envoy is sent to deliver unthinkable news.

Space Force Lieutenant Kào Vantaar-Moray expected gratitude and not defiance from the woman pilot-commander. No matter how hard he tries to convince her that his people saved her and hundreds of her passengers from certain death, he can't erase her suspicion that in the eyes of those on Earth her aircraft has vanished without a trace. The more involved he becomes with Jordan, the more his loyalties are torn. He owes his ship commander respect, and his very life, but a new life beckons with Jordan—if he can save her and her people before a heartless enemy reveals its true intentions..
AMAZON LINK
                                  5 STARS

I loved this book.  This story was even better than I hoped it would be.  I can fully understand why it was a RITA winner!  
The world building was just that Out of This World good.  *pun intended*  The cultures, the aliens, their appearances, the languages and some of the histories as well as some of the power structures, computers and technology.
The people in the story in the story had depth and complexity and the tension of the abduction was kept high.   There was a huge group of people who were snatched out of the sky.  The passengers and the crew added to the confusion, fear and tension.  They had a ways to go but then they started to work together as a team.  That really happens even more when they realize they have to wade through some dangerous lies.  Who is really friend and is really foe?  You'd be surprised.
The friendship to romance between Jordan and  Kào was a good one.  No falling into bed at first sight although they do feel some sparks early on.  Both of the main characters had some painful experiences in their past.   Kào bore the marks of his being tortured, both physically, emotionally and mentally.
 Jordan took her responsibilities seriously even though she hadn't wanted them.  She was in charge of the plane and her people no matter what.  She also made a promise to her daughter Roberta to make it back home and she always keeps her promised. I loved that Roberta was called by the nickname Boo.  
Prepare to sit at the edge of your seat as you read the story.  As it heads to an explosive ending, there are several shocking revelations.  One I suspected, although I didn't have the full story until towards the end.  And there was at least one that I never saw coming.  It was intense!
There are no cliffhangers in the book and I enjoyed the Epilogue.  The Epilogue that might be able to open the door for more adventures or not.  But all in all, THIS story was complete. 

By the way, the  attractive eBook cover is what first got my attention.
Now, I will be keeping an eye out for more books by this author.

BOOK REVIEW- Risk It All (Rocky Mountain Bounty Hunters Book 2) by Katie Ruggle *



Description


Five bounty-hunting sisters
Deep in the heart of the Rockies
Fighting to save each other
...and the men who steal their hearts

Cara Pax never wanted to be a bounty hunter. She's happy to leave chasing criminals and tackling skips to her sisters. But if she wants her dreams of escaping the family business to come true, she's got one last job to finish... Only problem is, she doesn't think her bounty is guilty.
Henry Kavenski is a man with innocence to prove. When he realizes that Cara believes him, he'll do anything to keep her out of harm's way. Escaping criminals and dodging cops might not be the best time to fall in love, but Henry and Cara won't give up, not when there's a chance at a new life ahead—if they can survive the fall.  AMAZON LINK
                                       4 STARS

In the first chapter you get a really good clue about how over her head Cara is.  She had it right that she was better in research than she was out in the field.  But pretty soon, she isn't going to have much of a choice about that.  She is kind of quirky with some pretty funny self-talk.  That would be muttering under her breath.  She also has a very sensible side that argues with her sassy, not so logical side.  Oh, and she says she also has a Princess side too.  What an imagination this gal has.  She can terrify herself all by herself with it.
Actually felt like as a reader I knew more about Cara than I did Henry.  
Henry seemed to  not have a lot to say and kept his information close to himself.  Several times described as a very large, handsome man with icy blue eyes,  whose emotions seldom showed on his face.  He also responded (when he did) with a nod or a grunt.  There are several times though that Cara begins to get behind his wall.  She sees a small, twitch of his lips that passed for a smile.  Or at least she thinks so. 
There is humor in the story because look who were are dealing with...Cara.    There is intense drama too.  The car chase alone was super intense and edge of your seat reading.  
I did have some mixed feelings about this story.  There were some times when the story seemed to slow and didn't give much insight into much personality for Henry.  There is also several people that I would have liked to have seen face consequences.  However, the main crooks did.  I finally decided that 4 Stars on Amazon was the right rating.    Cara and Henry being stalked was well done and the car chase scenes alone definitely deserved it.  It was so real I could almost taste the wind and the danger as they raced to escape.

Everything comes to a dramatic conclusion with SEVERAL surprises heading at us like a runaway train. 
There is a good Epilogue that is a whole lot calmer in nature. .


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

Thursday, December 19, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins


The 5 Second Rule
Transform Your Life, Work, and Confidence with Everyday Courage
Throughout your life, you've had parents, coaches, teachers, friends, and mentors who have pushed you to be better than your excuses and bigger than your fears. What if the secret to having the confidence and courage to enrich your life and work is simply knowing how to push yourself?Using the science habits, riveting stories and surprising facts from some of the most famous moments in history, art and business, Mel Robbins will explain the power of a "push moment." Then, she'll give you one simple tool you can use to become your greatest self.It take just five seconds to use this tool, and every time you do, you'll be in great company. More than 8 million people have watched Mel's TEDx Talk, and executives inside of the world's largest brands are using the tool to increase productivity, collaboration, and engagement. In The 5 Second Rule, you'll discover it takes just five seconds to: Become confident, Break the habit of procrastination and self-doubt, Beat fear and uncertainty, Stop worrying and feel happier, and share your ideas with courage. The 5 Second Rule is a simple, one-size-fits-all solution for the one problem we all face-we hold ourselves back. The secret isn't knowing what to do-it's knowing how to make yourself do it.  AMAZON LINK
                                                                     4 STARS

I found some interesting points in this book.  We are all familiar with Nike's Just do it but this book gave a tool to help put an action to that.  Motivation isn't the key but the "push" is. That's the Key.  It's simple but I already found simple does work.  I tried it on a couple of small things and yes, it worked and I will continue with it.  A new habit to use to overcome over thinking, hesitating, fear and ''I just don't feel like it''.  I liked how she pointed out that your brain and your feelings will talk you out of stuff if you don't get a jump ahead of it.  Although I said it's a simple tool, you do have to continue to use it to make it "work" effectively for you.  Like the author says...it's simple but  she didn't say it would be easy.  That's what the push is about. 
 ''You make your decisions based on what you feel'' has some interesting insights.
There are plenty of examples of this tool helping other people (testimonials).  Although I did feel like there was an excess of photo shots of all the testimonies.  I also think it might have been better without quite so many.
I had to smile when I got to Chapter 8.  Why?  Because it gave a really good example on how to get started using the rule but I already had started using on small things.  But this Chapter did have a good idea about making a change on how you start your morning. It's a good challenge.  
There were nuggets throughout the book.  One of my favorites has to be this: "Either you run the day or the day runs you."
Information was presented in a way that was easy to relate to.
.  
- Included the fact that the first 2 to 3 hours is your most productive. So don't waste it.
Procrastination is action a coping mechanism for stress.   
-When you start using this tool to overcome worrying you will be surprised how often your mind will drift towards something negative.  Not only using the 5-4-3-2-1 to shut down the negative but also refocus on being grateful.  Counting yanked her out of her head and planted her in the present.  Feeling grateful also changes your brain chemistry by activating the brain-stem region that produces dopamine. 
 -When you get nervous, say you are excited instead! She found her "trick" had some serious science behind it. Convincing your brain that all those nervous feelings are just excitement instead of trying to calm yourself down. You don't get rid of the physical feelings.  The feelings don't escalate and you stay in control and they will start to calm as you move.
-Dealing with hesitation, second guessing yourself, waffling all of these things need this tool to overcome.  Start counting backwards...then act. 
-Another good point is in finding what your passion is.  What are you "jealous" of in someone else's life.  A positive jealousy. 


She can also be found on YouTube 
Mel Robbins on Youtube

LEGO is Now Offering to Pay For You to Ship Your Unused Bricks to Children in Need

LEGO is Now Offering to Pay For You to Ship Your Unused Bricks to Children in Need: LEGO is now encouraging all of their old consumers to pass on their beloved bricks to a child in need—and they're paying for the shipping costs.

 

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- Kincaid: Cerberus Mc Book 1 By Marie James *


Hero complex?
Possessive?
Not afraid to speak my mind?


Check, check, and check.


I'm also President of the Cerberus MC, a former Marine, and easy on the eyes with arms made to hold a woman tight. I'm the whole package.


I'm not conceited; I'm convinced, and Emmalyn Mikaelson doesn't have a clue what she's gotten herself into by jumping on the back of my bike.   AMAZON LINK
                             4 STARS

There was more to the story than the quick book blurb suggests.   Both to Kincaid and to Emmalyn.  
Emmalyn is in a hell that she has been trying to escape for a long time, with no success to this point.  She doesn't deserve what has been happening but is running out of options.  That "hell" was very well described.
Kincaid is at the right place to intervene.  They both found that there is a spark between them that they can't act on right away.
Kincaid is not what you are expecting when it comes to the biker guy that he is.  
There is a story here but also with quite a few pages of sex and some raw language because remember it's a  Biker Club.  There is also so many times that Kincaid is so tender towards Emmalyn.  He cuts her a lot of slack because he recognizes the fear she has from the abuse she suffered.   When he says he's going to protect her, he proves it time and time again. 
Danger, action, friendships, drama, betrayal, romance, sex are all a part of this story.  
A couple of other men in the club drew my interest.  Kid is one and Shadow is the other.  And each have a quick peek into their stories at the end of this book. 
 


Sunday, December 15, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- A Christmas Wish (Sapphire Bay #3) by Leeanna Morgan *

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 A CHRISTMAS WISH is the third book in the Sapphire Bay series and can easily be read as a standalone. Each of Leeanna's series are linked so you can find out what happens to your favorite characters in other books. Happy reading!




 Can a little girl's Christmas wish come true?

After a tragic accident, Megan Stevenson is determined to give Nora, her five-year-old niece, a loving and stable home. With her fantasy cake business thriving and her niece's nightmares finally over, her life is more stable than it has ever been--until a stranger knocks on her door.

FBI Special Agent William Parker knows what it's like to lose the people you love. He's convinced himself that his job is all he needs to be happy. But while he's protecting Megan and Nora from a brutal terrorist group, his emotionless and solitary life is torn to shreds. With Christmas fast approaching, can Megan and Nora convince him that it's safe to love again...even if loving them is harder than letting them go?   AMAZON LINK
                              3 STARS

Megan has another surprise waiting for her.  A family one that she never saw coming.  It truly does turn her life upside down but it also brings William into her life.  That is someone who she might never have met if this secret hadn't come out.  
 In the beginning of them being on the run, I found it kind of odd that William used a public airport to try to get Megan and Nora out of town.  And also that he didn't station himself outside of the bathroom when Megan and Nora had to use it.  Of course, it did set the stage for more drama.  Just saying. 
William is a man of his own secret sorrows. He is no stranger to painful loss.  He also has not spoken to his father in 4 years because of that grief.  William is someone who easily connects with Nora and it''s easy to see why.  That Nora was one little charmer.  It was fun to watch her interactions with people and especially William. 
Megan is drawn to William as well but past history with an ex has taught her to be way more careful.  Besides not only her heart is at risk.  As time goes on Megan is concerned about Nora becoming heartbroken when William has to leave. 
There is plenty of emotions, cakes and good times spent together as they wait for the danger from the terrorists to be over.   There is also plenty of time for misunderstandings, mixed messages too.  
All in all, this was a clean, charming, good story, a Christmas wish gets fulfilled leading to a H.E.A. 




BOOK REVIEW- Beachcomber Bride (Book 12) by Stephanie Queen *


Image may contain: 2 people, textWith his marriage to Shana on the line, ex-special ops legend Dane Blaise faces a murder trial. The worst of it is the star witness against him is his best friend--or former best friend...

But that's not the only trouble on Martha's Vineyard. When an assassin shows up to go after the governor, not even Shana can stop Dane from trying to stop the deadly assassin.

Will Dane stay out of jail long enough to save the governor's life... and more importantly, to marry Shana?   AMAZON LINK

   4.5 STARS

The set up for the beginning of this story was a good idea I thought.   Giving the last chapter of Beachcomber Enemy was unexpected but what a good lead in to this story.
 I really liked this emotional, intense story filled with surprises.  There is love between Dane and Shana but there are times when Shana does wonder if Dane does really loves her. Well, at least like she loved him.  She may not always agree with him but she ALWAYS has his back.   He keeps so many of his emotions close to his vest.   He can pull a stone face like nobody else.

What in the world is going on with Cap?  Why has he turned his back on his best friend? I have to say that I was disappointed by his actions after reading some of the other stories which he was in.  My mind was bouncing all over the place with possible but crazy ideas.  We will find out what is going on but it will take a while to get to that answer.  

Dane's attorney was a breath of fresh air.  She was crazy unconventional like a mad scientist.  Dane's other observation was that she was just wild enough and brilliant enough to be scary yet effective.   Nora Kimble showed herself to be exactly that and totally tenacious time after time.  
There is plenty of action and adventure in this story along with a few unexpected but enjoyed surprises.  There is a whole lot of people with their own agenda's just getting in the way of the truth.  Not in a confusing way just making you wonder who can be trusted outside of the central group. 
 Peter John Douglas (the Governor) and Dane have been friends and co-workers of sorts for years.  There is a strong bond between them gained in the battlefield and other high danger cases.  
There is also romance Dane and Shana Style while they fight for their future lives.  All will be resolved although maybe not all in the ways that you expected.


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




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Saturday, December 14, 2019

**Chris Tomlin - A Christmas Alleluia (Live) ft. Lauren Daigle, Leslie Jordan

BOOK REVIEW- Hard Shot (A Jon Reznick Thriller) by J. B. Turner


 General Fiction (Adult), Mystery & Thrillers

Description

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- Love By Chance by Kacy Cross *

Description

BOOK REVIEW- My Darling Duke (Sinful Wallflowers #1) by Stacy Reid *




Description

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- The Cozakis Bride by Lynne Graham



Harlequin Presents® offers another chance to get your hands on one of Lynne Graham's fabulous Greek tycoons in this sizzling reissue…

A deal with her husband!

Olympia has no choice. If her mother is to get the medical treatment she needs, Olympia must beg Nik Cozakis to reconsider a marriage of convenience. Nik agrees, but on his terms: in return for a generous allowance, Olympia must bear him a son and heir.

Finally, Nik has both vengeance and his fiancée within his reach. Ten years ago, Nik broke off their engagement because Olympia had betrayed him with his best friend. Now he is about to realise how mistaken he was…when he discovers that his bride is a virgin!   AMAZON LINK
                                                                       3 STARS

An emotional story packed full of the lies of others and tremendous Greek pride. 
 What is it going to take for Olympia's Truth to come out?  She has no real proof against her accusers.   But she is still be harassed by someone who will do anything to ensure she doesn't get Nik and her H.E.A.  Oh, they will stop at actual murder.  But character assassination?   That kind of murder?   You bet!
I enjoyed Olympia's backbone that showed up from time to time when her Greek anger erupts.  It often didn't seem to do her much good most of the time though. 

Nik has so much hatred and is so stuck in the past at the age of 19 years old.  Business wise, he's advanced and succeeded.    But no wonder Olympia was confused.  Nik switched back and forth from hot to cold so fast, it's a wonder she doesn't get whiplash.   Sure, I could understand some of his thoughts and feelings.  Even though the things that came out of his mouth should of stayed there.  Unspoken.
Just a few more comments.  It has to do with the other people in the story.
 First,  Olympia's grandfather Spyros.  Man, I really don't like bullies and his stubborn refusal to hear Olympia out really irritated me.  And to totally cut his daughter Irini Manoulis out of his life?  He wouldn't even listen to the fact that her health was suffering.  Okay, I know that door of help had to be shut in order for Olympia to HAVE to go to Nik.  Still.  After that I never really did warm to her grandfather.
Peri is Nik's kid brother and seemed to be about the only one with a lick of sense. He seems to be the most level headed of the bunch.  Even though he doesn't appear a lot in the story when he does it's important.   

Monday, December 9, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- Christmas in Shotgun Ridge (Bachelors of Shotgun Ridge Book 8) by Mindy Neff



Book Details

Wanted: Women and babies. Where: Shotgun Ridge, Montana. When: As soon as possible!

A wounded woman and the cowboy determined to save her are about to make the perfect targets for the matchmakers of Shotgun Ridge, Montana.

Bah, humbug!

Wounded, widowed, and wary, Cherry Peyton didn’t believe in Christmas miracles. She was going to keep her head down, lights off, and ignore Christmas—again! But when her neighbor Clay Callahan found her injured by her bull, he had the perfect excuse to take over….

Suddenly her quiet life was awash with Clay’s family and friends bringing over kittens to foster, trees to decorate, ornaments to hang. And if that wasn’t bad enough, Clay was staying in her house while she healed! How could any woman concentrate on getting out of bed when a sexy, strong, tender cowboy kept urging her to stay there?

The town’s matchmakers were all aglee to see the millionaire rancher tending to Cherry. But she couldn’t forget the pain from her marriage, and couldn’t trust in love again. As the snow came, and the holidays neared, would Shotgun Ridge get another miracle? AMAZON LINK
                                                                                                        4 STARS

What a great little community this is.  Maybe I shouldn't call it little though.  Although it does have that warm, got your back, help your neighbor America feeling that I remember. 
Before I go onto the main characters, I just have to mention that this town has what they call "the matchmaking geezers".  This affectionate term and the people who were attached to that title made me smile. Cherry's uncle was one of them.
Cherry sure needs that help although she has been hiding from it.  Her deceased husband was a nasty piece of work.  He had also controlled and isolated her.  Now it was so hard to come back out of that after so many years. Pride and shame also help keep her isolated.
Cherry's accident as painful as it is does help open the door for Clay to help her.  Something he's yearned to do for years.  
Are you looking for a hero?  Clay sure fits that bill.  Oh, he'd tell you himself that he's got flaws but he sure has a heart for people.  Cherry is right at the top of that list and has been for six years at least.  Even though Cherry is prickly and independent he finds ways to get around her to help.  Even though it's not an easy task he even gets her to smile and laugh more than he's seen in years.  What also helps his case is that he is very astute when it comes to Cherry.  That is something that she notices even when it makes her uncomfortable at times.   Clay shows through his actions time and again how much he wants to take care of Cherry and even work together as a team.  

 As you can see, this is an emotional story but Cherry isn't the only one who has suffered emotional pain.  As the story goes on we get to see that Clay's younger years hadn't been a bowlful of cherries.  Please excuse the intended pun. 
There isn't just pain in this story but there are many tender and sweet moments too.  Not only between the main characters and the secondary people but also the strays (animals) that gravitate to Cherry.
As you can see I really liked this story.  It's a good Christmas story but also good at ANY time.  
A good Epilogue is something that I always want.  And this book had that.


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

Saturday, December 7, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- Christmas Shorts by Mimi Barbour, Mona Risk, Stephanie Queen & 15 more *


The Authors’ Billboard has a special holiday treat for you this year! Spanking new short stories – from the naughty and the nice list – to add fun to your 2019 season and keep your spirits high.
Eighteen of our masters of romance have contributed to this incredible deal for your entertainment this Christmas. Eat goodies, drink hot toddies, read, enjoy, make wishes and… dream.

 

Christmas Runaway: Mimi Barbour, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author: A teenager, mad at her father, runs into the bush and is saved by Sara’s big white Samoyed.


The Captain’s Christmas Leave: Mona Risk, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author: The wounded captain is resigned for the worst. But his soon-to-be ex-wife has some ideas to cheer him up.

Christmas Games: Stephanie Queen, USA Today bestselling author: He's got game with an old flame.
Second Chance Christmas: Jen Talty, USA Today bestselling author: Will Angel be able to put the past where it belongs and give Darren a second chance?

Meeting Sam Klaus: Melinda De Ross, USA Today bestselling author: Can two people fall in love after only a few hours spent together?

Stuck On The Naughty List: Joan Reeves, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author: Can the new Police Chief mend Cassie's broken heart?

A Match Made in Mistletoe: Leanne Banks, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author: Can a scarred attorney and his assistant find love when they're trapped in an Inn haunted by a romance-happy ghost?

Candy’s Christmas Rescue: Cynthia Cooke, USA Today bestselling author: A broken-down car, a dog on the run, a wedding cake in peril, what else does Candy have to lose other than her heart?

A Christmas Creek Caper: Rachelle Ayala, USA Today bestselling author: Someone’s stealing packages off the Christmas Creek porches. Sheriff Brad Wing is on the case--until he’s caught with his hands up and his pants down.

Dance of the Sugar Plum Fearies: Taylor Lee, USA Today bestselling author: Can the drool-worthy financier persuade her that Christmas dreams can come true?

Peter Elph: Dani Haviland, USA Today bestselling author: A gambler finds a huge surprise in 1886 Tombstone.

Christmas Cupid: Nancy Radke, USA Today bestselling author: Cupid uses all his arrows to help two strangers find romance.

A Love on the Edge: Jennifer St. Giles, USA Today bestselling author: He expected to quickly catch a stalker and send the celebrity heiress on her way, but the case is more complex, and she might not be the wrong woman

Because We’re Snowflakes: Susan Jean Ricci, USA Today bestselling author: When a grad student from across the pond meets the campus librarian, will he teach her the true spirit of Christmas?

A Magical Christmas: Jacquie Biggar, USA Today bestselling author: When a little girl goes missing, it takes faith, love, and the help of a Christmas angel to guide her to safety.

A Chance of Snow: Alyssa Bailey, USA Today bestselling author: Can winter weather, a fall, and an unexpected invitation bring love?

Holiday Pickup By The Sea: Traci Hall, USA Today bestselling author: Harley’s job as a dating service coordinator has left her jaded, when it comes to little white lies. Are Marc’s pickup lines and bumbling attempts at a connection enough for her to lower her guard, and give them both a chance at love?

A Chocolate-Box Christmas: Josie Riviera, USA Today bestselling author: Love is sweeter with a touch of mischief.

AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

 Something to remember is that this is a collection of SHORT stories.   I liked this definition of that term and thought it might be helpful to others.  So here it is:
"A short story is fictional work of prose that is shorter in length than a novel. Edgar Allan Poe, in his essay "The Philosophy of Composition," said that a short story should be read in one sitting, anywhere from a half hour to two hours."  Definition Link
I'm working my way through the book and the stories that I read in this series fit that bill neatly.  They were emotional, with good main characters, who were fairly well formed.  They had challenges being overcome in the required short amount of time. I thought the authors did a good job packing as much as they could within the short story parameters.  It reminds me a bit of T.V. hour long programs where something similar happens.  A problem is formed and then magically solved in that hour.  I've heard of people complaining about that but hey, they still watch them.  To me, this is a quick, feel good at the end, short escape made available in each story.  You don't like one?  Move on to the next one.  And if you don't like short stories then don't get this book.  If you are looking for the depth of a long novel, you need to order something else.  But for the rest of us, it has moments of Christmas joy and cheer in short form during a very busy time of the year.  Besides I thought the price was right.

BOOK REVIEW- The Viking's Captive by Ingrid Hahn *



Description

Thorvald Longsword can’t believe all he has to do is kidnap the daughter of his jarl’s enemy to get his land back. Easy. But when he finally snatches the princess up and tosses her over his shoulder, the beautiful spitfire makes him question his determination to get his land back at any cost.
Alodie gladly agrees to impersonate the princess so the bloodthirsty Northmen will take her instead. While Alodie might be ready to die for her people, she wasn’t prepared for how her pulse races for the maddeningly noble captor whom she’d just as soon hate.
But when Thorvald finds out she’s not who she says she is...it could mean death to them both.
AMAZON LINK
 3 STARS

This book had good and honorable main characters. Alodie and Thorvald were people that I found interesting. The world-building involved two different cultures and was done well too. Things in the story were well described.  Several different secondary people  added interest.  However, I did have mixed feelings about the story. It had moments that I enjoyed and then it just seemed to settle to a point where not much was happening.   Even though their were challenges that had to be overcome by both Alodie and Thorvald and a totally fungus like villain in play.  It gave me a smile here and there and has a good outcome.  I just wish I had liked it more. For me, it just felt like the story went on a bit too long.  I guess that is the bottom line for me.


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

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

BOOK REVIEW- This Is Love (Harmony Pointe, Book 2) by Melissa Foster *



Description