BOOK REVIEW- Millionaire Ladies Club by Lottie Morgan

   

 

Lillian Carter - Lily to her friends - is a well-to-do fashion designer with a penchant for finding men who are more interested in her bank account than in her. Being fed up with this type of man, she creates an online group for successful millionaire women just like her! Four other ladies join within a week of its creation. The ladies bond over men, books, and their respective jobs. As Lily prepares for Paris Fashion Week, she meets hunky Andrew White. Now, she's torn between keeping it professional and wanting to date her newest model. Lily turns to her new group of friends for guidance, but does she find the answers she's looking for? Will Andrew turn out like all the other men in her life? 

GOODREADS LINK

 This read like a short story or the beginning base for stories that follow about romances with the rest of the ladies who joined this club.
I will say that this was short and sweet with a clean romance.  It might not have time to develop a lot of depth but it was sweet and fun.   Lily out of the desperation of dating losers came up with a good and creative idea.  And another plus is that she ends up making several good friends.
It has a good ending which opens the door to more stories about the rest of the women in the club.

 

BOOK REVIEW- Boss Lady (Driven Women Series, Book 2) Laralyn Doran

    

General Fiction (Adult) , Romance

Description

Shattering glass ceilings…

Harper Merrick broke away from being Daddy’s girl to start her own stock car race team. Her biggest obstacle—keeping the devilishly-tempting investor out of her business and away from her bed.

Raised to follow in his father’s footsteps, Cal McBane is dragging his feet down the path. An attempt to reconcile with his estranged brother leads to meeting the captivating Harper, who makes him question his purpose.

Throwing money into her project was a no-brainer, falling for the clever blonde was a surprising dividend.

Intrigued by her vision—and her—he buys in. 

Giving into the temptation wasn't in the business plan, but Cal’s irresistible, his body is pure sin—and now she struggles to maintain boundaries.

They’re both invested and it’s not just the money at stake.

When a rival sabotages the team, and questions are raised that could destroy Harper, will she walk away from love to save the business?

Or by fighting together, will they profit from a partnership no one can wreck?  AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

This story is a bit different but I liked it.   I liked both Harper and Cal who each had quite a bit on their individual plates.   There was a time or two though when I wanted to shake Harper for the mixed signals that she was sending Cal.  But hey, she was also trying to figure things out herself.  She wanted to do things herself without leaning on a man to "rescue" her.  She saw so much of the help extended to her as a man trying to control her.  Which is something that she has had some experience with.  What she doesn't know is how controlling Cal's father has been. Yikes!  His father has VERY clear ideas of what Cal needs to be doing with his life.  From running his father's business to even his personal life.

There is also a couple of other colorful, strong women in the story.  Both C.J. (her driver & best friend) and her aunt made me grin more than once.  

Yes, there is someone who HATES strong women in the racing field.  And he has a special hate-on for Harper and her team.  But he's not the only one who caused problems. 

I have to give a nod to how beautiful the eBook cover is.  It actually caused me to slow down and read the book blurb when I saw it.

A good ending shows up after several surprising twists. 

 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Lily (Book 3 of 3: Bayou Bad Boys) by Kathleen Bittner Roth **

   

Description

For fans of Rosemary Rogers and Janelle Taylor, a sweeping New Orleans romance of wild passion, dark secrets and forbidden love . . .
 
Returning home to his beloved New Orleans after months in Jamaica, Bastien Thibodeaux reluctantly agrees to take two passengers on board his ship—an older English gentleman tending his ailing younger wife, Lily. That’s their story, at least. But as Bastien uses his skills as a Cajun healer to help Lily, he becomes convinced of two things: She is not who she claims to be. And though she may be out of bounds for the illegitimate son of a bayou priestess, their attraction is decidedly mutual.
 
When Lily’s father bequeathed her his entire estate, he unwittingly made her a target. She barely escaped England alive, aided by her godfather. New Orleans holds both temptation and danger as she convalesces in Bastien’s lavish residence. A single night together is all she dares allow. But once they succumb, there can be no denying this desire, or how much they’ll risk in its name . . .AMAZON LINK

 5 STARS

What a great surprise this book was!  From the very opening pages of this book all the way through to the end. 

It had such good, complex main characters, which I liked  a lot.  Especially complex when it comes to what each of their lives have been like up to this point.  And you just know that things are going to keep being a challenge for quite a while.  The book blurb pretty much promises that didn't it?  There's plenty of action and dangers for both Lily and Bastien, don'cha know?  And yes, that is a teasing reference when I say, "don'cha know?" It is a phrase that crops up a few times in the speech pattern of some of the people in New Orleans.  Made me smile.

One thing that didn't make me smile was her class rigid godfather and Bastien's mother. But did they add to the story? Of course.  

There were other people who were charming additions to the story whether they were by blood or adoptions of the heart.  

At one point, I felt that the story started to drag just a tad but then it took off in so many ways.  I'm glad that I stuck with it because of a wonderful ending and Epilogue. 

 

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

BOOK REVIEW- No Way Out by Fern Michaels

    

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Fern Michaels comes a brand-new novel that blends her rich, character-driven storytelling with a hint of suspense, as a reclusive young woman struggles to piece her life back together...

Ellie Bowman barely remembers the incident that put her into a coma. When she awoke, filled with unease, all she knew for certain was that her boyfriend, Rick, was missing. She knew she needed to get away from her old life and recover in safety. With the proceeds of a video game she helped develop, Ellie starts over in rural Missouri, working from her cottage and trusting no one except her friend and business partner.

Yet even in this quiet small town, it's impossible to completely isolate herself. Especially when a curious eight-year-old boy, smitten with Ellie's pup, stops by every day to talk to him over the fence. Little by little, Ellie is being drawn back into the world through the neighbors and community around her, realizing that everyone has their own fears and obstacles to contend with.

But when Ellie hears that Rick has resurfaced, her nightmares return, and with them, small snippets of memory. No one has heard from Rick since before the incident, so why is he back now? Ellie wants to move forward with her life, but first she must find the courage to look into her past, no matter what she finds there ...AMAZON LINK

5 STARS

 This story had quite a bit of depth to it.  It kept me reading as it drew me in from the start. 
Not only because of the main character Ellie and her drama but because of how she was living while in hiding.  She was one smart cookie who had put a lot of safeguards in place as she struggled to get her memory back and keep herself safe.  Her permanent side-kicks in-house was her dog, Buddy and Percy, her cat.  Both were animals that she rescued and in many ways their presence rescued her.  I enjoyed that a lot. Hector is a young man who has helped Ellie tremendously outside the house.  He became her assistant before she got to the house and the whole time while she was there.  They had quite the system of communicating. He added a lot to the story as well.

 This story is as much about the people in Ellie's neighborhood as well.  Colleen and Jackson were like the secondary story that was focused on a lot.  Jackson is the little boy that was mentioned in the story information and Colleen is his mother.  This part of the story kept my interest too.  There was a lot of things that had to get worked out with Colleen's abusive husband, Mitchel and his equally nasty mother, Vivian.  

Andy is an elderly neighbor  who added his own flair and unseen (at first ) problem to the story.  A few other neighbors were also included.

I liked how the story came to an end even though I thought the issue with Rick was a bit hurried at the end. It left me feeling like there was something a bit left out of that part.  Still not enough for me to rate this story lower.  The rest was just too good. 

P.S. I got a kick out of Ellie's mention of reading that people who talk to their animals rank as a genius. 

 

Dog Training 101: Fireworks | Brandon McMillan

BOOK REVIEW- Silent Sunset, (Book 19, Redemption Mountain) by Shirleen Davies*

    

 Silent Sunset, book nineteen in the Redemption Mountain historical western romance series, is a novel with an HEA and no cliffhanger.

Shane Banderas is ready to move on with his life. As a deputy in Splendor, a town he’d grown to love, the time had come to buy a place, marry, and start a family. Six years had passed since losing the only woman he’d ever loved. Years he’d never get back. Time to live for the present, and with luck, a new kind of future.

 

Angela Baldwin refuses to live under the strict standards of Boston society. Ready to break away, she and her close friend head west toward the love stolen from her six long years before. Refusing to consider he may have already married another, she boards the train. She has little going for her except a determination to win him back.

Shane can’t believe what is right in front of him. Angie, the woman who’d left him years ago, is standing on the boardwalk, as if she belongs there. He knew the truth about her. Trust isn’t a word she understands.

With no desire to rekindle feelings for an old love, he continues his plans to court another. A beautiful woman with a sharp mind and quick wit. A woman he can trust and share a future.

 Endangering any future is the threat of an old adversary seeking vengeance for a perceived wrong. An outlaw who enjoys killing, including those close to his prey. Everyone important to Shane.

AMAZON LINK 

4 STARS

 This story made for a good western set in an even better community.  There is a variety of good people in the town and plenty of action as well.  Even the main "bad guys" and their motives are well drawn.

So many misunderstandings and outright manipulations by other people have got in the way of both Shane and Angela.  They have a lot to work through if they can.

Angela's best friend, Martha who traveled with her to Splendor adds to the story.  She is enthusiastic and loyal when it comes to backing her best friend. I think a story would be good about her as well.  

As the story nears it's end the danger increases racing on to a surprising twist.  A good Epilogue is included.  That is something that I am always wanting in a story too. 

 

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

 

BOOK REVIEW- West End Earl (Misfits of Mayfair Book 2) by Bethany Bennett

   

Calvin, Earl of Carlyle, is spending the season focused on finding his younger sister a good match. And if he's noticing his land steward's uncommon cheekbones and full lower lip? Well, that's easy enough to ignore. The man is competent beyond measure. But when Cal discovers that "he" is a "she," his interest turns to romance.

Ophelia Hardwick has spent the last decade living as a boy. As Adam, she doesn't have to worry about being forced into an arranged marriage by her uncle. Pretending she doesn't have a crush on Cal is a small price to pay for being able to hide in plain sight. But when he discovers her secret, he puts not just her heart--but her life--in danger. Because Phee's uncle has been looking for her for ten years, and he won't stop until he finds her.  

AMAZON LINK

5 STARS

What an unusual start to a book.  It strung me along for a while before it was finally revealed about Adam's true identity.  Of course I had read the book information so I knew it was coming but it was SO well done.  I kept wondering, "how in the world could this ever work out?"   The friendship and partnership between Cal and "Adam" was done quite well.  That kept my interest too.  I really liked that part a lot.  Things do get really heated between the two main characters once Cal knows Adam is a woman.  So that makes it a book for at least a 18+ readers.

 Another person that I liked was Vicar Arcott, who was a hero of sorts, when it came to protecting Ophelia (Phee).

Cal and his sister Emma have quite the irresponsible father who causes problem after problem.  He goes money through money like water through his fingers and expects Cal to pick up the pieces.  He finally does something so outrageous, it makes  you shake your head. Of course Emma does add her bit of drama to the story too. 

There is plenty of dangers as well because Phee's Uncle Milton is one greedy man who will stop at nothing even murder.   There is a misunderstanding that led to a decision that I had a hard time wrapping my head around for a while.  Once again had me thinking, "how in the world could this ever work out?"  

Well, everything does work out in a genius plan but not without  having at least one more stab at danger first. 

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

BOOK REVIEW- The Duke and the Assassin (The Royal Agents of MI6 Book 1) by Heather Slade

   

An M16 agent falling for the wrong woman.
A Russian with secrets to hide.
And the passion that defies the rules...

THE DUKE
My team. My family. My allegiance. As a duke, the boundaries and loyalties are clear. I may be the Marquess of Wells with a stoic and rigid father on his deathbed, but I have desires and needs that break those boundaries. Falling for an assassin may be an issue. But I haven’t faced a problem yet that I can’t solve—other than assembling a crib.

THE ASSASSIN
Secrets. Lies. Deception. As a Russian assassin, I’m riddled with it all. Now, with a ten-million-dollar bounty on my head, there’s no way I can get out alive. But the irresistible and incorrigible duke thinks otherwise. He wants me in his life, in his arms, and in his bed. There’s no declining the desires of a duke. And quite frankly, I have no intention of denying him anything.  AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

 

The book information drew me in.  And I wasn't disappointed because this was a pretty good story.

I liked both of the main characters who have led and are leading such an interesting life.   Orina (Losha) is still in hiding even from Shiver (Thornton) and has been for quite some time.  But he's good at what he does too so he will find her out.

Even some of the supporting people in the story kept my interested.   And a few of them  are holding some pretty dangerous secrets.  One of the other people that I now would like to read more about is "Pinch". I'll have to follow that up.

I liked Orina's best friend, Zary.  The two "girls" have had each other's backs since their teens right into the present time.     They still have such a strong friendship and loyalty. I enjoyed that.

One thing that I did find a bit uncomfortable was when I realized the story had switched back into Losha and Shiver's past.  It wasn't as smooth as I would have liked.   But thankfully that only happened a couple of times.

There is plenty of dangerous times in the story with it ramping up big time towards the end.  It  finishes with a H.E.A. and a good Epilogue. 

 

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

BOOK REVIEW- The Chance (Thunder Point Book 4) by Robyn Carr

   

Come back to a small town on the Oregon coast, in book 4 of the beloved Thunder Point series only from New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr.

With its breathtaking vistas and down-to-earth people, Thunder Point is the perfect place for FBI agent Laine Carrington to recuperate from a gunshot wound and contemplate her future. The locals embraced Laine as one of their own after she risked her life to save a young girl from a dangerous cult. Knowing her wounds go beyond the physical, Laine hopes she'll fit in for a while and find her true self in a town that feels safe. She may even learn to open her heart to others, something an undercover agent has little time to indulge.

Eric Gentry is also new to Thunder Point. Although he's a man with a dark past, he's determined to put down roots and get to know the daughter he only recently discovered. When Laine and Eric meet, their attraction is obvious to everyone. But while the law enforcement agent and the reformed criminal want to make things work, their differences may run too deep...unless they take a chance on each other and find that deep and mysterious bond that belongs to those who choose love over fear.

AMAZON LINK 

4.5 STARS

This is the first book that I have read in the Thunder Point series.  And I really liked it a lot.  The main focus is on Laine of course; her story.  Laine and Eric make for a interesting people, both on their own and as a couple.  The livelong friction between Laine and her father add another dimension to her story.  So does her twin brother Pax (and his family) who have her back. 

There was at least one point like I felt like the story started to drag a bit but I kept reading because I liked the characters.  I'm glad I did because things started to pick up again.

I think that this book could also be best described as "a book of many stories".  It's the community that they are living in and the depth of each of the people living there.  It wasn't confusing but there are several stories like I mentioned.  Justin is a 17 year old who is working for Eric and struggling to keep his family together. Then their is Al, a longtime friend of Eric's who shows up to work with him from time to time.  He's a bit of a wanderer but he has his reasons.  He likes to work for Eric when he can because Eric is a straight up guy who treats his workers well.

That's just to mention a few of the people and I just want to mention Ray Ann, who was quite the colorful person too.  

I have to agree with another reviewer that the end of the story felt a bit rushed and left me a bit dissatisfied. It's like I wanted more although some good things were forming.  However not enough to keep me from wanting to read the next book in the series. 

Andy Grammer - "Don't Give Up On Me" [Official Video from the Five Feet ...

Andy Grammer 

"Don't Give Up On Me"

John Mayer - Heartbreak Warfare (Official Music Video)

  

-John Mayer- 

Heartbreak Warfare (Official Music Video)

BOOK REVIEW- Mafia Boss's Arranged Bride by Bella King

   

It began with a massacre.

As shots rang out, Nikolai stole me from my wedding,
Claiming me as his own before anyone else could get the chance,
Bending me into a pale memory of who I used to be.

Nikolai is cunning, drop dead gorgeous, and feared by everyone who knows him.
Including me.

Now he demands that I marry him instead of the man I was sworn to…
His brother.

He wants me to make a mistake, to get lost beneath his wicked tongue,
To fall into the dark side and finally become his,
And without anyone to save me, I slip…

In doing so, I become an enemy to my own family,
A death sentence to all who know me.
Except for Nikolai – the killer, the boss, the man with no remorse,
And soon to be my husband.
I belong to him now,
And he will crush anyone who says otherwise.

 

I had some mixed feelings about this book. Which I am mentioning further on in this review.

But I just had to give it a bit higher rating on my reviews because of the parts that I thought were well written.

 This book was a total surprise.  Probably because when I read the book information, I had it all figured in my head what it meant.  Well, it was a bit different from what I was thinking.  It also had quite a few other surprises in store for me.  

Innocent, amiable, obedient Annika has a lot more going on under her surface.   Her mother and father might have steamrolled her into marriage with Michail but she has a boiling resentment underneath.  And when she spots Michail's brother Nikolai lust blossoms for him. Too bad for Michail who she detests on sight.  

Nikolai is definitely a handsome, ruthless bad boy.  BUT, there is a whole lot more to him than just that. When he meets Annika yes, he definitely wants her.  

This story is definitely an Adult story with some violence and sex.  But putting some of that aside, it does have a pretty good story with depth in it's characters.  There is also quite the twist towards the end.

I liked the Epilogues that were included.  One each for Nikolai and then Annika.  That was different and I liked that.  A sweet touch.  

 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Falling for the Baron (The Everly Club Book 2) by Anya Cade *

   

She must marry. But she’ll do it her way. And she has a plan...

Caroline Whitfield has it all figured out. Since all young ladies of the ton must marry, she plans to do just that. The only romances she’s interested in are between the pages of her beloved books, so love is not a consideration. She needs a husband willing to let her live her own life, and who better than a man for whom a wife is an inconvenience packed off to the country? Which means only one type of man will do...

She needs a rake, a man who will barely notice his own wife in favour of his own pursuits. It’s the perfect plan. All she has to do is not fall in love... And most definitely not with the irritatingly handsome Baron Huntingford.
He needs a wife. Preferably someone who is not Miss Whitfield...
More at home on the battlefield than in a ballroom, Aaron, Baron Huntingford, is still getting used to his title and being a man of leisure rather than a soldier. A rake with a dangerous reputation, he’s used to any woman he wants falling at his feet, but Miss Whitfield is not like other debutantes.
For one thing, she seems to actively dislike him. For another, she’s his best friend’s new sister-in-law, and, therefore, off limits. Never mind that he craves her touch and to find out if her lips taste as sweet as they look.

But when he finds out about her scheme to bring a rake to the altar, all bets are off. If she wants a rake, she’ll get one. Him.   AMAZON LINK

3.5 STARS 

This was a charming story with two best friends coming up with a hair-brained idea.  Well, I guess that honor really goes to Caroline (Caro) Whitfield.  Caro's passion is books and her friend Elizabeth (Lizzie) has a passion for anything to do with plants.   They are SO over parties and the kinds of marriages that are expected of them.  Lizzie Harcourt is busy trying to hide from an honorable but dour appearing titled gentleman.  He's too stiff and staid for her tastes but that is a different part of the story. 

 The main focus is really on Caro and Aaron.  He seems to hate her on sight and for a while she is busy returning that sentiment.  Notice I said or a while.  There is a turning of that tide but of course not without someone messing with them. 

I would have liked to have seen more happen to that "someone" but it was mentioned they are so unlikable, so dishonorable that sooner or later they will get their comeuppance. 

There is a H.E.A. with a followup of a good Epilogue. It follows through with their lives for several years. I liked that. 

 

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

Angels Being Sent NOW to Fight For Our Freedom By Rev. Peg Yarbrough

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Angels Being Sent NOW to Fight For Our Freedom By Rev. Peg Yarbrough: The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress. Psalm 46:7 Recently I was part of a phenomenal supernatural event. I had asked Jesus, “Lord, HOW can I help in the arena of spiritual warfare?” Four days later Jesus woke me up at 3:40 AM and immediately I was in the spirit, in the heavenly realm. He said, “Peg, I want you to command angels.” Instantly I was wide awake! There was Jesus in ALL his GLORY! I’m talking Revelation chapter 1 kind of glory! In my vision I was transported to the sea of glass before the throne of God.

 

 

BOOK REVIEW- Her Burly Bodyguard (Book Five in the Alpha Bodyguard Series) by Nell Alexander *

    

Counsellor Hanna Simmons' life is threatened so she is placed in a safe house under Davis's care.

Davis isn't interested in a relationship and he has never met Hanna before but is sure she will just be like every other assignment. Until she arrives at the safe house and Davis can't keep his mind or his eyes off her.

Will these two find their happily ever after when it seems as though Hanna will always be in danger? Or will they find a way to combat the danger together.   AMAZON LINK

3 STARS

 This book needed to be longer and deeper.  It had potential but I found it was moving pretty fast overall.  So fast that I barely even got to really get that attached to the main characters. That's something that I want in a story.

It also felt like there wasn't much time to get the real sizzle of attraction between Hanna and Davis before they were in the sack. I'm glad that they got their H.E.A. though. 

 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Bite Shift (Eternal Night Shift Series Book 1) by Lena Nazarei **

   

Romance ,  Sci Fi & Fantasy 

Description

Kate Murphy is just a nurse and single mom who wants to slip into her forties quietly, and finally lose those last 10 pounds. After a savage attack during her night shift break, Kate is turned into a vampire to save her. Now, she is thrust into a world that she didn’t know existed; trying to figure out how to keep her new condition secret from work, kids, and her ex-husband without missing a step. It’s funny how the word vampire will make you forget you have a water bill.

Unfortunately, Sorin, the Lord of the city, has sent her on a suicide mission to find the thing that left her for dead before it kills again and he doesn’t take “no, thanks” for an answer. Despite knowing she should despise him, the passion he has ignited inside her is hard to control and she is quickly losing the reasons she shouldn’t give in...especially when he makes it clear that he wants the same thing.

Kate will need to reach inside herself to find the strength that was always there and finally learn...she was never “just” anything.  AMAZON LINK

5+ STARS

 This book was crazy good!! What a glorious roller coaster ride!  I just never knew what was going to happen next.  When Kate thought her life was going to be turned upside down just because of one night, she sure got that right.  

This story had great main characters which led to some more interesting secondary people as well.  Kate drew me in fast when it comes to the team of "I want to see her win"category.  Add in that Kate doesn't know what she's doing, who to trust and more dangers than you can count.  Rhys, Alex and Soren, and Will are four men that Kate meets on her journey.  They will play an important part in the story.

There is a breath-taking conclusion to the story with a "still trying to figure some things out" H.E.A. with a Kate style ending.

Oh and not to be forgotten was the humor and the humor in the writers style. Loved it.  I'll be keeping an eye out for more of this author's stuff.

P.S. What a great eBook cover!

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

BOOK REVIEW- Trusting the Badge (Arizona K9 Book 3) by Dorothy F. Shaw *

   

Description

For members of a police K9 Unit, partnership is everything—in work and in love.

LOVE AT FIRST NIGHT . . .

Shuttled between her alcoholic parents and foster homes that separated her from beloved younger brother, Steven, it's no wonder Tish Beck is a woman with trust issues. To avoid getting hurt—or hurting someone else—she's kept her romantic life commitment-free, and that's fine by her. Until she meets exasperatingly hot, funny, smart-ass K9 officer Jeffrey Pearl, and stupidly spends the night with him . . .

Currently single and content, Jeff's always got his canine bestie, Rio, by his side, and loads of human friends. He enjoys the occasional close encounter, but hasn't been tempted into anything serious. Until Tish. He's inexplicably head over heels. Too bad she's determined to keep him at arm's length. But when Tish's brother winds up in jail—again—Jeff's glad to be the man Tish turns to for help. And with Steven back on the scene, she'll need it. Soon Tish will have to open her eyes—and her heart—to love, and realize where, and with whom, her safety truly lies . . . AMAZON LINK

3 STARS

I have to give this story at least 3 stars on Amazon because  the different main characters and the emotions that were portrayed.  But it also felt like the story got a bit sidetracked because of all the hot, detailed sex.  Yes, there was some cute humor to it with a bit of drama because of Steven.  Just not enough things going on to keep me super interested.  I did cheer that there was a H.E.A. but overall probably for a younger person than me. Although not too young because of the before mentioned sex. 

It just turns out that it's not really my cup of tea.  Although the eBook cover was one of the things that caught my eye and gave me hope for a great story.  So did the K9 part in the book blurb too.

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

BOOK REVIEW- Damage: (A Ghost Squad Novel) by Lilith Saintcrow **

  

 General Fiction (Adult) | Romance 

Description

Ghost Squad, Book 1

Keeping her safe will be his hardest assignment yet. . .

Reeling from trauma and divorce, Cara Halperin takes what should be a simple job with an expensive agency. As a nanny to rich children, she shouldn’t have much to worry about, and her job is just complex enough to keep her from brooding. Unfortunately, the agency’s sent her into a trap.

Vincent Desmarais wants to go back into the field, but instead, he’s put on leave. The diagnosis? PTSD. No problem--he can pick up security work on the side to keep himself sharp--that is, if the side work isn’t just as dangerous as the bloody places he’s longing to get back to.

When the lights go out, Cara and her young charge have only one option: to trust the new security guy. Vincent finds himself unwilling to abandon them to fate or let them out of his sight. If the trio wants to stay alive, they’ve got to trust each other. . .

. . .but that may just be what their enemies are counting on.  AMAZON LINK

4.5  STARS

This story surprised me.  It came at the story in a different way than I was expecting but that was also good.

In the beginning and for quite a while the story centered on Cara and her six year old charge, Eddie.  There was a pretty good amount of world building and well detailed information about Eddie's home and his home life.  But that didn't slow things down at all.  I could see how Eddie was easy to like because that happened to me.

 Cara and Vincent both had some nightmares in their pasts that they are trying to heal from.  But unbeknownst to them they have more future "nightmares" heading their way.  The keeping me on the edge of my seat kind.   I couldn't put this book down and I didn't want to either.

Their isn't a lot of pages spent on a romance between the two main characters but you could "see" the attraction.  Also the developing trust and friendship between follow -the rules- Cara  and skilled but at times overwhelmed Vincent. It was fun to watch Cara find out that she could be fierce, when it came to protecting Eddie.  

Don't even get me started when it comes to "Dracula Cowboy."   You'll have to read the book to get that part of the story.  I will give you a hint: this is NOT a paranormal story. 

Great ending to the book with a good follow up of the characters six months later. 

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

BOOK REVIEW- A Bargain with the Rake (Necessary Arrangements Book 3) by Sadie Bosque

   

A duchess determined to love...

Evie Montgomery, the Duchess of Somerset, has promised her grandfather she will marry for love, and she is determined to keep said promise. Only the man she loves is the most notorious rake in the country. And he hasn't spared her a glance in the seven years since she's known him. Winning his hand in marriage isn't hard, winning his heart, however, is another matter entirely.

The rake she cannot forget...

The last thing Gabriel, the Viscount St. Clare, wants in this life is marriage. However, when Evie appears on his doorstep, she proposes a bargain, he can't refuse. Marrying the duchess to gain her fortune is tempting, but not as tempting as the duchess herself.

When the past comes a knocking, they realize that to keep love in their lives, they have to give up much more than either of them has bargained for.  AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

The beautiful eBook cover caused me to slow down and read the book information.  I'm glad that I decided to read this book because I did enjoy it.  I like that the eBook cover was a good choice also because it does fit with a part of the story.  I like that when it happens.

Both Evie and Gabriel are NOT your usual main characters and are both unique in their own way.  Evie is a colorful person from the top of her brilliant red hair to the fact that she holds the title of Duchess even BEFORE her marriage. And that's just the start and she draws people to her like a magnet.  Everyone loves her; well except there are  a couple of people who want what she has and will stop at nothing to get it.

Gabriel is as advertised, an unrepentant rake.  Women of all kinds, even married ones have thrown themselves at him.  And he has been eager and quick to catch them.  But as time goes on we get to see that there is more to him than just the charm that he definitely has a boat load of.  I enjoyed the "friendship" that develops between the main characters but it's also good to note that this is definitely an adult story because of the foreplay that eventually happens. 

Quite a few unpredictable things happen to Evie and Gabriel making this quite the journey that they are on. Some of it quite dangerous at times.  All in all, the story put a smile on my face. 

 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Wicked Exile (An Exile Novel Book 2) by K.J. Jackson

     

She can’t afford to love anyone. He will never marry. They can never have a future…or can they?

A fallen lady with a heart of gold and a spine of steel.
Long ago, Madame Juliet Thomson was exiled from her family. A fallen lady, she’s worked in one of London’s most famous gaming hells for the last six years. An arrangement that suited her well until an over-zealous lord determines she is his property. Which she is most decidedly not. But convincing the man is another matter, and she needs desperately to disappear for a while—somewhere safe, somewhere she cannot be found.

When opportunities present themselves, take them.
Evander Docherty wants one thing. To set his future bride in front of his beloved grandfather before the earl dies. A last wish fulfilled. Not that he actually plans to marry the lass. Nor that he even has a fiancée. But for his grandfather, Evan would do anything. Even strike a bargain with a fallen lady.

An attraction not to be denied.
While danger rears on the journey north to Scotland, Evan and Juliet quickly find the attraction between them is spinning out of control. But she can’t afford to love anyone. And he will never marry. They can never have a future…or can they?  AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

What an impossible situation it was for both of the main characters.  It had me wondering how in the world anything would work out for the two of them being together.  It's sure to cause other readers to feel the same I'm sure. 

The book information sure had it right about Juliet having a heart of gold and a spine of steel. That was shown time after time; shown not told.  Evan was a big man with a driving sense of honor.  When he gave a promise/a vow he kept it. Even if it was to his own hurt.  My jaw dropped when the reason why he would never marry came out.  It was more than I thought it would be.  Evan had felt plenty of hurt over the years.  And one of those hurts comes from one of his family members but I'm going to let the reader "see" that like I did. 

Things get really dangerous towards the end with a rescue in the nick of time. It also included an excellent Epilogue.

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

BOOK REVIEW- Love for Beginners (The Wildstone Series Book 7) by JIll Shalvis **

   

General Fiction (Adult),  Romance , Women's Fiction 

Description

What would you change if you had to start your life—and love life—over again?

When Emma Harris wakes up from a coma she learns that her fiancé and her BFF have fallen in love, she’s lost her job, and the life she knew is gone. Overwhelmed but grateful to be alive she starts over from scratch. Not as easy as it sounds, of course. But she’s never been a quitter, even if she wishes she could quit rehab, where her hot but evil physical therapist, Simon, puts her through the wringer. 

Eager for a new beginning, Emma opens a doggy day care. Unfortunately, the only space she can afford is owned by her childhood nemesis Ali Pratt. But hey, she’s been through worse, right? She tries to roll with the punches, but a friend drops his grandpa off at the doggy day care in desperation then on top of that, she and Ali bring the term ‘frenemies’ to a whole new level. And then another grandparent shows up. And another.

In the midst of all that, Emma realizes she’s accidentally fallen for Evil PT. But the most horrifying thing of all is that Ali just might have turned into the best friend she’s ever had. And as Emma grows from the pain of her past and takes on her new path, she comes to realize that life isn’t what you’re given, it’s what you make of it. AMAZON LINK

5+ STARS

Jill Shalvis has done it again!  Made me fall totally in love with one of her books.  Emma and Simon are two characters that I also loved too.  Both on their own and when they spent time together.  The humor was off the charts good and makes the book a keeper for me if only for the funny conversations and thoughts.  But there is so much more.  The uniqueness of Emma's story was a draw but it was also believable too. It also touched me because after having knee surgery myself, I recognized some of the physical struggle that Emma was going through. But let's face it she went through a whole lot more than I did when it came to injuries with a coma thrown in.    The thing is though that the story wasn't a "Debbie Downer".  It was emotional for more than one person but still in a good way overall.

Ali was an interesting character and sounded like she would JUST be a secondary person.  But, it was like having two romances in one book. Ali was one tough character but she had some good qualities that were often hidden. I grew to really like her a lot.  She didn't do well opening up to people especially in large groups.  Which causes all kinds of problems for her because the love-of-her- life, Ryan is a people magnet. 

Simon's father Dale adds some spunk, fun and problems for Simon. Hog is Emma's emotional support dog who adds a whole lot of smiles and fun to the story. 

 Problems will be solved, romance will win, showing that the struggle was worth it. This is a winner in my opinion.  If I didn't make it clear..I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

 

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

 

BOOK REVIEW- Rebel's Karma by (Dark Protectors Book 13 )Rebecca Zanetti *

   

 Romance, Paranormal Romance,  Action & Adventure Romance

Description

There's no denying destiny . . .
For too long, Benjamin Reese has masked his deadly skills and temper with loyalty and humor. A vampire-demon hybrid, he fiercely protects his family, guards his brothers, and destroys the enemy without mercy. But when he discovers one fragile, beautiful blonde—a woman once mated to a Kurjan, no less—every primal instinct he has buried for centuries roars to life. With the mating mark she roused on his hand entwining their fates, no one will prevent him from keeping her safe and making her his, forever . . .

Or desire . . .
Karma wishes she could remember her last name. Or if she even had one. All she has in this confusing new world is a desperate duty to save the innocent. That means destroying the dark, dangerous, and desirable Benjamin Reese and everything he loves—an impossible task even before his touch arouses a passionate hunger she can't afford. She's certain a deadly enemy watches her every move, but it's not until Benny kisses her that she tastes true danger…AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

 I've wanted to read Benny's story for some time now.  He is one crazy, fun over the top kind of guy who just captured the attention.  His story didn't disappoint. It was unique and unusual just like him.  And so was Karma and what she has been through.  The lies she has been told, the control she has been under have held her captive
for centuries.

There are plenty of "visits" by other people from earlier books.  But not to worry it isn't hard to follow if this is your first book.

For me, the only thing that kind of bothered me was the channeling, talking with ghosts that Karma does.  As a Christian that is a no-no but at least it doesn't take over the story.

There is plenty of action, fights, humor and tenderness along with a few sex scenes.  There is a H.E.A. for now for the main characters. I say that because the danger out there is still on the horizon when it comes to Ulric.  And Benny can feel the time getting closer and closer to that final ritual.  So Benny and Karma grab what they can.  Because no one knows the time  of the final battle.  Or even if he or any of The Seven are going to make it out alive.

 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Broken (Hunter's Heroes Book 2) by Hunter Rose *

    

I’m trying to remember. He’s trying to forget.
And the cartel that took everything from me is trying to kill us.

Isabella
Lance is the only person I trust in this world.
I remember nothing from my old life.
Not my husband, not our life, not the incident that took him and my memory from me.
All I have left from that life is my little daughter.
When Lance found me in the desert, alone, with a baby in my arms, he saved us.
He promised me he would help me find my husband’s murderers.
Our suspects, members of a notorious biker gang, are dangerous.
The Rangers, who had called my husband one of their own, refuse to help us.
But the deeper we investigate, the more I fall for Lance.
And the more I fall for Lance, the more I fear for his life.

Lance
All it takes is one tragedy to change you.
I was running away from my tragedy and on my way to becoming a Navy Seal when I found Isabella, alone and wounded, with a newborn daughter in her arms.
I knew I had to stay by her side.
I am all she has, and she is a ray of sun in the grief that drowns me.
I am willing to risk anything for her. I am willing to do anything it takes to help her get her revenge.
But I can’t allow her to put herself in danger. She and her little girl have become too precious to me.
I can’t lose them and I will do anything to protect them.  AMAZON LINK

3.5 STARS

 This was a well written story with plenty of emotions from both of the main characters. 
Isabella was tenacious when it comes to getting justice for the husband she doesn't remember.  Lance has more memories of his dead fiancee, who has died 6 months before Isabella and Lance meet. 

The challenges that they face was also well done with a few unexpected surprises towards the end.   

I just wish that I had liked this story more but it just felt like too much time was spent on Lance's angst over his loss. 
Even though I have to give the author credit for writing about his pain in a way that was believable.

 

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

BOOK REVIEW- The Surprise Holiday Dad (Safe Harbor Medical Book 12) by Jacqueline Diamond

   

Father, Meet Son Safe Harbor obstetrician Adrienne Cavill couldn't love her nephew more if he were her own child. And no deadbeat dad is going to claim the little boy she practically raised. Detective-turned-P.I. Wade Hunter has missed five years of his son's life and nothing's chasing him away this time. That includes the pretty doctor who's giving his child everything--except the father he needs. Now that she knows the reasons why he left, how can Adrienne keep Wade from his son, who's over the moon about having his dad in his life? The rugged ex-cop's having a similar effect on her. W

Will Christmas bring Adrienne the family she never thought she could have?   AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

 

 This was an enjoyable story with interesting main characters and a good supporting cast of a family like community.  Adrienne and Wade both come with their own kind of baggage.  Dysfunctional childhoods of different kinds of pain.  Wade had a good childhood until he hit his teens and his mother left.  She was the one who had given Wade some good memories until alcoholism weakened his father even more.  Wade knew that particular sickness ran in his family. He remembers that chaos of family life  and how he had to be the adult before his time.  His father and grandfather were quite the negative kind of influence towards each other.  His grandfather was one critical, sarcastic person so often finding fault with Wade no matter what he did.  I could see why he did a hard pass when it came to spending time around him.

Adrienne had chaos in her life growing up too but it came from mental illness in several family members.  That included her sister and it fell to Adrienne to be the grown up; the fixer in the family.   Some now as adults both of the main characters liked to have a clean, orderly house. Both also shared the same kind of survivors guilt and the need to try to fix things.  

 A sure scene stealer would be Reggie, Wade's son.   He added a lot to the story and he was quite the character. 

There is just the right touch of challenges set in a clean developing romance.  It also has a satisfying H.E.A.

 

 

BOOK REVIEW- Wintersfall (Gen-Heirs: The Guardians of Sziveria, #1) by Sarah Westill **

   

When a professional assassin’s daughter goes searching for her mother and sister’s killer, she never expected to fall in love…

With her inherited ability to handle a gun and know exactly how to use it, Katria is a valuable tool for the Sziverian government. In exchange for a deeper investigation of their deaths, she agrees to work for the First Intelligence Office.

Haunted by a dark family history, Sean Blackbain escapes the whispers by leading an Intel Guardian team.

All he wanted was to disappear. Then a botched assignment sends the team home. Sean and Katria learn the contracts they signed three years ago were for more than work. They’re married. Away from dark alley danger and secret missions, they find themselves thrust into the glitz and deception of the ranked Guardian society.

As a Sympath, Sean can feel and absorb people’s emotional states, including the desire his new wife can’t hide. Fighting against their attraction is useless, and he quickly discovers he’ll do anything to keep her safe. Which turns out to be more difficult than he ever anticipated. The more Katria’s digs into the murders, the more danger seems to find her…AMAZON LINK

5 STARS

 

 What a great story this book is.  It pulled me in easily and I enjoyed all of it.  It starts out with interesting main characters who have a lot of depth, skills and secrets  that also help drive this story. It was also a great plus for me, that I really liked both Sean and Katria a whole lot.  Another good thing is the team that the two of them have been a part of the last few years.  Mason, and  Kevin are the other two team members that have gotten so tight with everyone that they are almost like family.  Sean is team leader but everyone has learned to be like a smooth oiled machine when it comes to the work that they are called to do. Mason and Kevin add a lot to the story and I can hardly wait to read Kevin's story now that I see he has one.

If you want action this book has it.  Totally unpredictable things begin to happen.  So does betrayal in a astoundingly well built world and it's cultures.  

I liked that some things were settled but with the door left wide open for more adventures.  Because the biggest baddie is yet to be put in his place.   It just left me wanting to read MORE.  So when I get the chance I will be following through that open door for more adventures.

 

 I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout 

and am voluntarily leaving a review.

 

BOOK REVIEW- Power Play (Capital Intrigue Book #3) by Rachel Dylan *

   

Description

When State Department attorney Vivian Steele witnesses two ambassadors collapse as if poisoned at a diplomatic dinner in Washington, DC, she is recruited to be a member of a joint FBI task force assigned to investigate. But she soon finds her by-the-book ways clashing with a special agent in the Diplomatic Security Service, Jacob Cruz. A former Navy SEAL and in charge of the event's security, Jacob takes the attack personally and is driven to act quickly, even ahead of the rules and regulations. 

As Viv starts to work her diplomatic sources, her past as a State Department lawyer comes back to haunt her, and secrets held tightly by the government thrust her into a web of danger. Afraid, Viv turns to the one man bent on protecting others. But can she accept Jacob's reckless ways as exactly what she needs to stay alive and to discover the truth behind the attacks?   AMAZON LINK

4 stars

 

This was not the usual cloak and dagger kind of story but it was a good one. 

Talk about being at the wrong place at the wrong time, that would be what is happening to Vivian Steele.    Even though she is JUST a State Department lawyer, she's just been caught up into some pretty dangerous  situations now.   And at first Jacob Cruz isn't so sure that she is  as innocent as she appears.  And he's just the first of several that are convinced that she's more and that is what lands her in trouble.  She's in over her head and she knows it but as time goes on she's drawn more and more into the mysteries.  In this particular part of the story faith does play a part of the story without over taking the book. 

This book does have two story-lines going on that keeps the tension up and the interest going.  Delaney O'Sullivan and her assistant Special Agent Weston Lee, had their own FBI investigation going on.

Plenty of action and twists and turns in both cases really keep the tension going too.  It had some really clever plots that come to some pretty dramatic endings.  There is also an Epilogue which I always look for and enjoy.

 

 

 

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