BOOK REVIEW- Contract Signed (Triggerman Inc. Book 1) by Marie Harte

 Part 1 of the Triggerman, Inc. series

Three assassins and a… baby?
Don't miss the first in this sexy, fast-paced romantic suspense series-TRIGGERMAN INC.-from New York Times bestseller Marie Harte. Noel "Ice" Cavanaugh's method is foolproof. Get in, do the job, get out, melt away without a trace. Neat. Tidy. No mistakes. This time, though, something isn't right. Two somethings. First, a random attack that feels not-so-random. Then he discovers a baby on his doorstep with a note claiming it's his. Unfortunately, the sexy neighbor who found the boy first has too many questions in her eyes to ignore. When her handsome, mysterious neighbor suddenly asks her out on a date, Adeline Rose has suspicions he's fishing for help with his bundle of…joy? By the date's end, she's convinced Noel's just as distant as he seems-until a scorching goodnight kiss burns away all thoughts of being careful.
Now Noel has more than one problem on his hands. Splitting baby duty between three badass assassins, figuring out how to fit in more time with Addy…and keeping both of them safe from the danger that's followed him home.
This book has been previously released.
Warning: Beware a killer with a heart of gold, a baby who needs constant changing, and unrequited love that's actually quite…requited.  AMAZON LINK
                         5 STARS
Unique.  There are other words that I could use but this one is the first one that comes to mind right away.  I enjoyed this story even though some of the sex scenes were a bit much.  But it also had humor, plenty of danger coming from reasons that left Noel scratching his head trying to figure out.  And the baby, there is that huge question of who is the baby daddy.  They don't know his name so they continually give him their own versions of names.  The other 2 assassin's are kind of forced together at Noel's private home as they try to figure things out. Uncomfortable together at first, Deacon, Hammer and Noel slowly start to bond together as a team and with the baby.  Made for some funny times too.  Even though none of them are used to being targeted when they are home in the U.S.  So there is plenty of mystery and danger too.
It looks like people either really liked this book or hated it.  Put me in the slot for really liking it.  I think I just found a new series to enjoy.  I liked how the story ended with the door left open for more adventures. Not sure that I have read anything by this author before but I will be following up to the next book with Declan's story.  
I was happy how things came to a conclusion; a H.E.A. for Noel and Addie.  Now, there was a woman who was full of surprises!

BOOK REVIEW- The Missing Twin- (Guardian Angel Investigations: Lost and Found Book 1) by Rita Herron

 Part 1 of the Guardian Angel Investigations: Lost and Found series


 Detective Caleb Walker had taken on some tough cases for Guardian Angel Investigations, but when Madelyn Andrews came to him, claiming that her five-year-old daughter was able to "communicate" with her twin sister who'd never made it home from the hospital, Caleb was skeptical. One glimpse at the beautiful single mother, though, and he couldn't walk away. Now, as he looked into what had really happened when Madelyn went into labor, suspicious details were uncovered. Details that prompted Madelyn to cling to him as pain consumed her. And the deeper he dug, the more invested Caleb became in their tiny family, in their safety when danger penetrated their lives - and in their salvation when he promised to bring a little girl home...AMAZON LINK
4 STARS



I liked this story with just a few reservations. 
It did like both Caleb and Madelyn as well as Madelyn's daughter. 
It had a good mystery working as well as plenty of tension as dangers get bigger and bigger and bodies start dropping.  
I did like the connection that the little girl seemed to have and how her gift was similar to what Caleb has experienced.  
Caleb was such an interesting mix of tough investigotor and tender man too.
Madelyn has been lied to so many times by so many people that it boggles the mind.  One person who has always stood in her corner though is her mother. 
One thing that I didn't care for so much was the implication about lost souls, dead people hanging around because of different reasons.  The theme of they can't move on for one reason or another.  And Caleb has an experience saying goodbye to a dead person. Although it was sweetly written, not a fan of that.
There is a H.E.A. which I am a fan of although I wish there had been a bit more to the romance between Caleb and Madelyn.  I get that they were on a mission and their relationship became a friendship and closeness developing from that.

 

BOOK REVIEW- Jeb's Wife by Patricia Johns

Patricia Johns’ sensitive storytelling brings depth and heart to this tender story of second chances, as an Amish woman embarks on marriage with the gruff farmer next door . . .

Once, Leah Riehl prayed for a husband. The man she loved chose another, wanting the children that Leah can’t provide. But she’s found a measure of peace, keeping house for her brother, Simon, and teaching in a nearby town. Now though, Simon’s debts to an Englisher gambling ring have left Leah with a desperate dilemma—and a surprising offer from her scarred, reclusive neighbor. Jebadiah King needs to marry in order to claim his family farm. A union, for appearances only, will help them both.

Jeb knows his scars make him a less than ideal husband, but he can be a useful one. It’s the least that Leah deserves. But despite the promises he made to himself, Jeb can’t help longing for his lovely, warmhearted new wife. His first marriage brought heartbreak, but Leah’s gentle smiles spark hope again. Are they willing to take the leap that love requires—and open themselves to all the challenges and joy a true marriage could bring? AMAZON LINK

                                                                  4 STARS

I liked this story and found it to be one of the better Amish stories.  I think it's because of the good main characters and the emotional depth of the story.  Both of them are people of honor and integrity trying to help each other.
Jeb is such an incredibly misunderstood man on so many different levels and not just about his scars.  He is a private man but his community has also failed him in so many ways too. That was so well written that you could almost feel the hurt.  He was also a man who wanted to be loved and valued.  But after being rejected time and again, he pretty much gave up.
 Leah has so many good qualities and one of those is her deep love for her brother Simon.  She raised him when she was a teenager and he has a lot of charisma.  Unfortunately he has used his charm in unhealthy ways. At least one point I kept thinking some tough love was needed and he needed to grow up.  You'll have to read the book to find out if that ever happens. 
The story has our couple facing several challenges, and judgemental people.  It does come to a good conclusion with some good people in the community repenting and stepping up, bringing more hope for a better future for everyone.

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

BOOK REVIEW- Taboo Cowboy: A Secret Baby Ranch Western Romance (RainbowCanyon Cowboys Book 2) by K.C. Crowne *

 This is a standalone best friend’s dad, older man, cowboy romance and a part of my Rainbow Canyon Cowboys series. Each book can be read as a standalone. Transport yourself into the charming family ranch in Texas, as we follow five rugged cowboys in their quests to find lasting love.

 Molly is too young. Too innocent.
And she's pretending to be my son's girlfriend.
It's a real shame how her sweet curves challenge this cowboy's code.

When my son comes to visit the family ranch, he brings Molly along.
A pretty little temptation my son tries to pass off as his girlfriend.
But I know one thing's for certain: My son doesn’t chase women.

Molly’s a tiny little thing... especially next to me.
She’s adorable. Big blue eyes. A sassy mouth.
And blonde hair I want to wrap around my fist.

I try to keep a tight rein on my untamed need.
But I want to have her. Taste her. Mark her as mine.
I have to be Molly’s first. And her last.

But can a gruff cowboy like me tame the queen of manicures and designer bags?
One things for certain...
When danger threatens Molly and our unborn baby...
I vow to prove the love in my rugged heart.   AMAZON LINK
   3 STARS

 Although this book had three different kind of main characters, it just didn't really pull me in like I hoped.  Molly, Christopher and Silas were each unique enough in their own way. 
I did like the friendship that Molly and Christopher shared even though at times Christoper was self-absorbed and selfish at times. 
Molly was both an innocent person and also mature in other areas.
I liked Silas and the struggle that he had to try and connect with his son Christopher.  Silas loved him deeply but always had such a hard time putting it into words. 
Molly and Silas also struggled but their struggle was of a more personal nature.  They were fighting their strong attraction to each other.  Which leads to some tender moments (from Silas) and some fairly hot sexual scenes as well. 
While I didn't think the story was all that special I did like the H.E.A. that came about.  And can I just say what a great eBook cover that was?

BOOK REVIEW- Truth and Justice (Sisterhood Book 31) by Fern Michaels *

Description

Fern Michaels is a national treasure, and her latest in the Sisterhood series finds the stalwart friends bringing justice—and hope—to families devastated by a greedy con artist.

The Sisterhood: a group of women from all walks of life bound by friendship and a quest for justice. Armed with vast resources, top-notch expertise, and a loyal network of allies around the globe, the Sisterhood will not rest until every wrong is made right.

When Alexis Thorn and Joe Esposito encounter a young woman sobbing alone in a restaurant, they step into action and offer their comfort and sympathy. They soon learn that the woman’s husband was recently killed in action in Afghanistan. Before he reported for duty, they took steps to preserve their chances of having children. But when Bella visits the fertility clinic, she discovers her eggs are no longer there—and the circumstances are beyond suspicious.  
Heartbroken at this tale of shattered hopes, Alexis recruits the Sisterhood to investigate. Soon they uncover a con artist on an obsessive mission. Tracking the culprit behind such a cruel scheme won’t be easy. But with their combined grit, courage, and determination to overcome any obstacle, the Sisterhood will make sure that this story ends on a note of triumph . . .AMAZON LINK
                      4 STARS


 I have read quite a few of the Sisterhood books and I never know if I'm going to like it or think it's just okay. Not the case here, I liked this one.  The Sisterhood found themselves in a position that they never had been before.  They were kind of stumped, off balance and feeling all messed up.  It takes a while for them to bring things all together but it made for an interesting story.
Bella just seems fighting to keep afloat thinking her dead husband Andy didn't really love and care for her as much as he claimed.  If he did, why would he have stopped all contact, and not made any provisions for her in case of his death? There is so much at work here, all working against Bella.  It's all a hot mess but they all will get to the bottom of it. It's going to take a lot of work.  And it gets slowly peeled like layers on an onion. 
 Avery Snowden shows up in this book, as he has in some of the other books.  He's an ex-spy with some pretty high level operatives.  He's going to be a huge help in getting information on this mission.  
Sara, Sara, Sara.  She was one nasty piece of work and Andy's "sister".  She presented one face to Andy and another to the rest of the world.   He never suspected a thing.  Sara seemed to be one step ahead of just about everyone most of the time.  Even the sisterhood for a while.  She really wasn't on their radar at first but the deeper they dug the more names for her came up.  They began calling her "Sara whatever her last name is now. " 
The story comes  with a surprise good end and beginning for Bella.  
I kind of think that the punishment for the villain of the piece was a bit mild.  But then again..maybe not. Not getting out alive.




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

BOOK REVIEW- Baby Breakout (Outlaws) by Lisa Childs*

 Jedidiah Kleyn had been convicted because Erica Towsley hadn't come forward. So the night he escaped from prison, it was with one thing in mind—find Erica and make her clear his name. But the moment he laid eyes on the angelic beauty, his hatred was overwhelmed by the ferocity of his still-burning desire. And then he saw the child—his child.

He'd thought that proving his innocence was all that mattered. But whoever had framed him was now targeting Erica and his little girl. And as the woman he'd blamed and the child he'd never known laid claim to his heart, Jed would risk anything to protect them. Because now there was nothing more important than his family…not his freedom, not even his life.   AMAZON LINK
                        3.5 STARS

 An interesting story with really good main characters.  Both Jed and Erica have HUGE trust issues that get in their way time after time.  Erica's stem from abandonment issues from when she was young and she kept seeing people were always leaving her.  She has feelings for Jed but she just can't get her head around all the lies that she's been fed.  What is the truth?  And what is the truth about Jed; especially now? 
Jed's case should have bee a slam dunk when it came to proving his innocence.  Except there were way too many people with agenda's that wanted him dead or at least imprisoned for many years first.  
The only down side for me with this story is that it slowed down a lot at times.  The reason being the replay of the same trust issues or lack of trust in the same areas.  The main characters could have used a bit more depth especially when it came to their "relationship."
Isobel was the charming daughter that Jed and Erica shared once he found out about her.
Jed's sister Macy and her lawman boyfriend Rowe Cusack also add quite a bit to the story.
There is a really good surprise towards the end of the book which adds quite the surprises!
And yes, there is a H.E.A. for this couple and their daughter.
 

This is a Move - Brandon Lake and Tasha Cobbs Leonard | Moment

BOOK REVIEW- In Too Deep (Love Undercover Book 1) by L.K. Shaw *

My life’s mission after joining the D.E.A has been to take down the entire drug trade in Chicago. Nothing has distracted me from it. Over the years, the line between the role I’d started out playing and the man I’ve become has blurred. The person I used to be no longer exists.

Until Gabriela. She belongs to the boss’ nephew. That doesn’t stop me from wanting her. Craving her. She threatens everything I’ve worked for. She also reminds me of the man I once was. Before the drugs and the killing. The one who tried to do the right thing. Until I lost my way.

Neither of us can resist the pull. Our passion runs hot and fiery. We meet in secret, a forbidden affair that will get us both killed. One fateful night, I discover Gabriela isn’t who she says she is. Now I have to protect the woman I’ve fallen for.

What happens when the cartel discovers my secret instead?

*this book was previously titled Love Undercover. None of the contents has changed.
AMAZON LINK    4 STARS


This book contains some really interesting main characters who have depth.  Much of their depths are even hidden from each other. So many secrets that have to stay hidden for quite a while.  Even though their dangerous attraction to each other keeps coming to the surface.  
The story is also filled with intense drama, dangers, some violence and double-crosses. 
The romance was good when it happened even with Tomas secrets still in place.  The sex scenes were both hot and tneder.  Even though they were a bit more detailed than I would have liked.  
The tension amps up when things hit the fan as you know they will. 
There is a partial H.E.A. only because a danger still possibly lurks out there.  

See A Victory & Surrounded with Brandon Lake | Live From Praise Party 20...

BOOK REVIEW- Waiting on a Cowboy by Jennifer Ryan *

Description

Meet New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Ryan’s McGraths: a family as untamed as the land they call home. 
Tate McGrath just didn’t get it. Why was Liz Scott, his best friend—and the person he relied on and trusted most—suddenly avoiding him! When he finally tracks her down, he finds her with a man he knows nothing about and she’s been dating for weeks. Suddenly, he can’t make himself ignore her tempting curves and deep green eyes, and all he wants to do is keep her all to himself. What was going on? Could he possibly be…jealous?
Liz had made the decision: stop carrying a torch for Tate and find a guy who wants to be her everything. Tate had always seen her as honest, dependable, smart, kind…Best friend, not girlfriend! And she needed to give up the dream of marrying the man she’d loved since preschool and move on.
But when Liz’s boyfriend turns dangerous, Tate steps up to help and soon realizes he’s the cowboy hero she’s been waiting for him to be all along.  AMAZON LINK
                                   3 STARS

I had high hopes for this book and while I enjoyed some of it, other parts not so much.  
I liked both of the main characters, even though Tate was SO clueless when it comes to Liz.   I liked the history of their being friends for so many years.   I even liked that Liz got her gumption up and went looking for love somewhere else.  She was tired of waiting for this cowboy.  Which makes this a really good title for this book. 
However, this book was SO slow because for me it got dragged down with all the rehashing of regrets.  That would be Tate doing most of that.  He wish washed back and forth for a while about whether trying to have more with Liz and possibly lose their friendship.   It wasn't until about 50% through the story that things really started to happen more.  There are plenty of twists, turns and danger from that point on.
Liz's new boyfriend Clint turned out to be really slick.   
There are plenty of secondary people in the story and they added a lot to the story.  Tate's brother Declan had a part to play in this story.  And now I want to read his story of finding love.  Detective Valdez also played a part in this story too.
The book does have some dramatic things happen as it winds down to the end.


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

BOOK REVIEW- Once upon a Pricess (The Lost Royals #2) by Ainsley Wynter *

Book Details

A vengeful rebel...
Forced to live in hiding after his family is assassinated, Prince Callum of Embury leads the rebellion to restore his family to the throne. Knowing only grief and revenge, Callum searches for a chance to destroy the king and rebuild his alliances.

A protective princess...

For Princess Zara of L’Ortagia service to her people comes first, while hiding her magical abilities. When the queen commands her to wed the Emburian heir, Zara flees the night before the ceremony—ready to aid the rebels, protect her country from a madman, and discover whether the dashing man who helps her escape is truly who he says he is.

Two passionate hearts...
On the run from the king’s forces, Callum and Zara form a fragile alliance while fighting a growing attraction. Torn between their allegiances and their passion, they find solace in each other. But can the magical princess and the rebel prince find a way to build a kingdom together?  AMAZON LINK
    4 STARS

This is the first book that I have read in the series and I did enjoy it.  
I liked both of the main characters and they had a depth of character.  There is plenty of emotion, danger and people out searching for them.  At times it was hard for them (and the reader) to know who exactly to trust.  And others like Viola it was as clear as day that she was 100% on their side.  There were a few others that fell into that category as well. So they made for good secondary people. 
Zara had a gift that her mother, the Queen made her ashamed of as a child.  So she had to keep it hidden and not practice it's use.  In other words, she wasn't allowed to let it grow.  The Queen so often disapproved of just about everything Zara did that she finally stood up and made what was thought of as a risky choice.  
Callum sure gave mixed signals when it came to Zara.  Yes, he wanted her BUT he had several reasons why he was hesitant to pursue her.  He felt he really had nothing to offer her as a future.  And he had the important mission to recover his siblings or siblings.  And to take back the throne from the usurper and back to his family, the rightful rulers.  However even with all the stated reasons it didn't keep him from some very heated sexual situations with Zara.  Mixed signals, remember?   She was attracted to him as well but was often confused by his on and off affections.
I enjoyed watching Zara's growth and the Nocturne magic that is also involved in some of that growth.  
Everything comes to a good end with a H.E.A. for now ending.  Which in reality leaves the door wide open for MORE adventures in this series.  
By the way, the attractive eBook cover caught my attention enough to slow down and read the book information. 

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