Book Review- Enchanting King (Sweet and Clean Royal Romance) by Clara Bliss

   

Enchanting King, a friends-to-more royal romance

George

As the heir to the throne of Noddington, I’ve had a lifetime of indulgence. But the one thing I’ve never been able to demand is true love. With my coronation just around the corner, the pressure to find a suitable queen is more intense than ever. In my heart, there’s only one woman for the job. My best friend Katie is a sassy commoner with a passion for saving animals. I think she’d make a perfect princess, but not everyone agrees. 

Can I convince Katie to overlook the royal protocols and take her place as the queen of my heart?

 This book comes with a blissful promise of a hopeful happily ever after, no cheating, no cliffhangers, and a whole lot of cheer.

 AMAZON LINK

 

''Enchanting King'' is the story that I got to read for free in this series and so that's the only one that I can comment on.  I did like it although being a novella it was of course shorter.  Both of the main characters were honest, sweet, good people and I did enjoy their story.  George knows what and who he wants but he is also fighting a system (his father the King).  His father has tried to pull all  his strings like a puppet master.  But George is deeply in love with Katie and just can't seem to catch a break.  His sister Sophia is on his side but he has a battle to wage.  But like the book information promises there is a H.E.A.
 

*** BOOK REVIEW- Chasing Justice by Kathleen Donnelly

   

Romance

Description

She thought she’d never trust again…

After losing her military K-9, former marine Maya Thompson swears she’ll never work with dogs again. But when she returns home to Colorado and accepts a job with US Forest Service law enforcement, fate brings K-9 Juniper into her life just as another tragedy unfolds.

Juniper, a beautiful two-year-old Malinois, isn’t the only new addition to Maya’s life. Josh Colten, the local deputy sheriff, insists on helping with her new case. Handsome and mysterious, he’s all anyone in town can talk about, but Maya can’t let herself like him, let alone trust him.

When Maya’s grandfather goes missing amid a growing drug war, Maya must put her faith in Josh, and her own battered instincts, to find him. But there's a web of secrets tying her grandfather to the tragedy that brought Juniper into her life—secrets someone would kill to keep hidden. 

 

AMAZON LINK 

5 STARS

 

What a great story this turned out to be.  It was even better than I had hoped for. 

Awesome main character which include K-9 Juniper.   I loved how the emotions  and the personal struggles in the story were shown.  And there were plenty of struggles especially for Maya.  I also loved how it was shown the bond between Maya and Juniper.  How "the dance" between the handler and the K-9 was explained.  It was vivid and easy to feel.  I really enjoyed the saying about the breed of K-9 Juniper was. "When God made the Malinois, he took a bunch of rubber bands, strung them together as tight as possible and then released it."  It sure seemed to fit pretty good with Juniper even as good as she was at her job. 

 So many people were keeping secrets, including Maya's grandfather. Even chick magnet, Josh Colton who had been promoted to chief deputy sheriff.   Maya wasn't sure she could trust him but he did seem to be easy to talk to.  

Just as the secrets seemed to escalate so did the dangers. Dangers coming from multiple directions. All of it keeping me on the edge of my seat.  

I liked how the story ended with most everything taken care of.  However, the door was left wide open to follow a family murder mystery.  What really happened to Maya's mother and possibly her grandmother.  You can choose to end the story right here and I think be happy or keep going.  I think I'd like to follow through and see where the next story goes.

 

 

 " I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley. And these are my honest opinions about it.”

**BOOK REVIEW- Damned When I Do by Oona Ryda

   

  A 20k Enemies-to-lovers, Fake marriage, Football romance novella

The hot af NFL bad boy who saved me from a vicious assault is the one person on earth I hate more than my abusive ex-boyfriend.

Jett Lang was my college nemesis. He was a football god. I was a campus joke—thanks to him!

I hated him with a passion. But people change, right…?

Nope. Still hate him.

I hate the tingles down my spine, the electric sizzle in the air, the thundering in my veins.

I especially hate that I’m Mrs. Jett Lang.

 

This book was a surprise. Even though was a bit shorter being a novella, it still was pretty full substance wise. I ended up enjoying it quite a bit.   Jett and Claire have quite the interesting history.  Their wedding was hilarious.  The vows that they had to exchange had me almost laughing out loud.  The drunk officiate had made it short and not necessarily all that sweet.  But really really funny !

It also has some steamy times before things hit the fan.  Not to worry though there is a H.E.A.   

I received a free copy of this book and these are my honest thoughts on it.

Book Review- Strictly Business (The Switch, 1) by Ruth Cardello

     

General Fiction (Adult) | Romance  

Description

Lies and attraction abound when a savvy businessman posing as his twin and an oil baron’s niece battle over a family farm in this steamy romance from New York Times bestselling author Ruth Cardello.

I just found out I have an identical twin. Wasn’t looking for one. Would have preferred to not have one, but here we are. We have nothing in common. I was adopted by a successful businessman who raised me to see life as a game and gave me the skills to win it. Him? He is about to lose his family’s farm. You heard me—farm.

Lucky for him, I’m a firm believer that when it comes to family, no one goes to battle alone. I’m in. I’ve switched lives with him and will use every business trick I know to save his farm.

However, my initial plan did not take into account a drop-dead gorgeous oil rep or the secrets I uncover about my brother. And worst of all, I’m starting to like the farm and all its inhabitants. I can’t stop thinking about that oil rep. This will definitely take longer to resolve than anticipated.

 AMAZON LINK

3.5 STARS

 I like this author and her work but I'm sorry to say this story just didn't pull me in as much as I would have liked.

 True both main characters were interesting people and their romance was dicey at first.  They had trust issues to work through.   And that cropped up several times after they thought things were settled.

I think all the science and food information although well written, just didn't interest me all that much.

But it did have it's moments especially with L.J., Ellie who was Crystal's best friend and co-worker.  There's more to that part of the story though and Ellie does bring some directness and humor to the story.    And that's just the human part of the story.  The needy animals that Scott has rescued and given a home are pretty unique all on their own.

There is a least one dangerous encounter before the story ends. Everything comes to a good end with a H.E.A. and an interesting future.  So, all in all it did have it's good moments.  Earning it 3.5 Stars on Amazon when I can leave a review.

 

 " I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley. And these are my honest opinions about it.”

***BOOK REVIEW- Plain Jane and the Billionaire's Seduction ( #3 of Plain Jane Series) by Tmonique Stephens

   

Who wants to fall in love with a billionaire? Not Calista Coleman.

Never trust a liar.
Never trust a cheater.
Unfortunately, Calista fell in love with both. What else could one expect from an asshole with nine zeros behind his name? Julius Morgan--playboy billionaire--stole her heart, but she stole it back. And no amount of flowers or apologies will fix it. Don't say "I love you" then plant your lips on another woman.

He didn't lie.
He didn't cheat.
Unfortunately for Julius, Calista believes both. It's easier for her to run away than deal with the burgeoning feelings between them. He's a patient man, however. He didn't accrue his fortune by making rash decisions. Wherever she runs, he will follow. But when his enemies become hers, they'll have to set aside their differences and work together or risk losing everything and everyone they love.

 AMAZON LINK

5+ STARS (Again)   

 Okay.  I admit it..I'm addicted.  Addicted to this series at least.  I just had to grab it and read it even though I have a list of TBR books waiting impatiently in the background.  I just had to jump into this story and I wasn't disappointed.  I also HAD to know how in the world Julius was going to get back in Calista's life (and bed). And they've had some spicy times together before this bump in the road. What can I say?  I'm invested in this couple and the people surrounding them. Their enemies are HUGE and powerful but so is some of the people working on their behalf.  The emotions were well presented and almost felt because they were so real. 

Julius and his brother, Joshua are working their way into a closer relationship that is way overdue.  And had been poisoned for years by controlling Lynda (Joshua's mother).  On the good side of relatives is Laverne, who is quite the character.  Brash, loud, loving, "I'm  getting in your business because I love you and you're family, woman.''  She's a force of nature that has helped Calista so much through the years especially with Calista's mother.    

The action just keeping coming, unpredictable and often deadly.  It was real edge of the seat reading.  I liked how the story ended ..for now.  

But hey, not all the enemies have been wiped off the face of the earth.  So cue Book #4, "Plain Jane and Mr. Wrong".  I'm going in as soon as I can. 

 P.S.  I'm still loving all the edgy covers on these books.

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

Book Review- Plain Jane and the Billionaire (Book 2) by Tmonique Stephens

   

What do you give a man who has everything? ... A woman he can't have.

Calista Coleman has a problem named Julius Morgan, the newest billionaire and most eligible bachelor in New York City. He's condescending, egotistical, ridiculously handsome, and he needs her. Vulnerable and in danger are two things she can't walk away from, neither is the paycheck he offers her to protect him. Yeah, he's gorgeous, but it shouldn't be an issue as long as she sticks to her one rule--no screwing the client. She'll do whatever it takes to keep him safe, even if it costs her everything, including her heart.

Julius Morgan took two bullets meant for his best friend. Wrong place, right time because he met Calista Coleman. She changed his life the night she saved him and became his bodyguard. Her beauty and mouth make him want to throw out the rules. Just one problem--he doesn't screw his employees. But what Julius Morgan wants, Julius gets...regardless of the consequences. And he wants her.

With danger looming closer, the lines between employer and employee blurs. Friend becomes foe, and life and death balance on razor's edge, leaving Julius and Calista to risk it all. 

AMAZON LINK 

5+ STARS

This story knocked it out of the park for me.  I've been reading this series and I enjoyed it so much and it left me wanting more !!  More adventure, more danger, more Calista and Julius.  They were both such great main characters with plenty of depth.  Plenty of emotions were shown with an almost against their logic attraction to each other.   Calista tries to play it cool which is her nature most of the time.  Cool and tough when on the job.  Julius is hot for her even though one of his rules is to never have sex with an employee.  Yeah, well there is a rule that will be broken.  It's good to know that there is more than just simple lust at work here. 

Calista and Julius aren't the only people in the story of course.  And the others that do show up do so with gusto.  

I loved how the story semi-ended and all I can say is bring on the next book.  I'm all in.  

 By the way, I love the unusual image that was used as the book cover.

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

** BOOK REVIEW- Stalked by the Mob (Miami Mafia Book 1) by Mallory Crowe

  

I watch her.
I follow her.
And when the time is right, I’ll make her mine.

I’m not a fool. I know the innocent scholarship student, Daisy, who can barely afford her crumbling apartment, is too good for me. But from the moment I saw her, I knew she was mine. Now all I have to do is convince her of that.

But when my brother returns from being MIA with suddenly psychotic tendencies (and that means a lot coming from me) and some worldwide organization comes in and threatens everything I care about if I don’t hand over the city I spent my life gaining control of, things get more bloody and, to put it delicately, tourturey.

And if Daisy thought I was a stalker before, wait when she sees how I get when I’m her full-on protector.

This is the standalone contemporary romantic suspense with a HEA and no cliffhanger that features sexy alpha males and smart, strong women who will stand up for what they believe in.

 AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

 

WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.  However if you do read it, know that it is a well written (love)story with some lust and some dark moments in it.  The words in the book information kind of lets you know that this isn't going to be a sweetness and light story.  The words, Mafia, stalker, a dangerous man who gets what he wants, whenever he wants it, pretty much says a lot.  So sexual heat, yes that is a definite yes.

Daisy is a hardworking woman, who has pulled herself out of poverty along with her very best friend, Becks.  They've worked hard together for a very long time.  For most of her life, Daisy just puts one foot in front of the other and was often sweetness and light.

I liked the writer's descriptive style a lot. She put some humor into some of it.

Everything comes to an explosive end with a H.E.A. Epilogue.

 

   " I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book,  and this is my honest opinion about it.

** Book Review- A Daring Pursuit (The Ruthless Rivals#2) by Kate Bateman

   

Description

The Davies and Montgomery families have been locked in an ancient feud. But it’s a thin line between love and hate in Kate Bateman's A Daring Pursuit.

TWO ENEMIES
Carys Davies is doing everything in her power to avoid marriage. Staying single is the only way to hide the secret that could ruin her—and her family—if it was revealed. For the past two seasons she’s scandalized the ton with her outrageous outfits and brazen ways in a futile bid to deter potential suitors. Outwardly confident and carefree, inside she’s disillusioned with both men and love. There’s only one person who’s never bought her act—the only man who makes her heart race: Tristan Montgomery, one of her family’s greatest rivals.

ONE SCANDALOUS BARGAIN
Wickedly proper architect Tristan needs a respectable woman to wed, but he’s never stopped wanting bold, red-headed Carys. When she mockingly challenges him to show her what she’s missing by not getting married, Tristan shocks them both by accepting her indecent proposal: one week of clandestine meetings, after which they’ll go their separate ways. But kissing each other is almost as much fun as arguing, and their affair burns hotter than either of them expects. When they find themselves embroiled in a treasonous plot, can they trust each other with their hearts, their secrets…and their lives?

 AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

 Carys was an outrageously good main character.   Outrageous being the main word.  Flamboyant, a bit wild, sometimes reckless, kind at heart, caring, and someone who loved animals.

Tristan really did seem like a stiff, stern, disapproving man until you got to dig a bit deeper.  One of my favorite observation by Tristan  was that Carys was like, ''a sliver of shrapnel under his skin".  

Tristan's aunts, Prudence and Constance brought a smile to my face.   

 This one took me a while to really get into.  But it had some good moments of humor and things do ramp up quite a bit towards the end.  Bonus points also for the epilogue. 

 " I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley. And these are my honest opinions about it.”

**Book Review- Trusted & True (Men of Haven #7) by Rhenna Morgan

  

Romance

Description

Come hell or high water, the Men of Haven always ride or die for one of their own. Follow the brothers as they come together once again in the long-awaited seventh book in Rhenna Morgan's Men of Haven series. 

The last person Callie Moore is prepared to see when she shows up for a job interview is Danny Parker, the guy who witnessed her at her worst and gave her an ultimatum: get clean or don’t ever ask for help again. It’s been years since then, and Callie’s been through hell, but she’s finally doing the work to change her life. That doesn’t mean she couldn’t use the job. And it doesn’t mean her troubled past is completely behind her, either.

When his best friend’s sister-in-law walks in looking for a job and a second—or is it third—chance, Danny isn’t so sure he’s willing to risk it. Even if he does desperately need the help at his custom car shop.

Letting Callie back into his life opens Danny’s eyes, and heart, to the woman she is now—and the man he wants to become. If anyone has a problem with that, too bad. Including his skeptical Haven brothers. But when a dangerous part of the life Callie’s left behind comes to town, seeking revenge, the family will have to join together to save her—as well as the innocent Haven life caught in the cross fire.

The Men of Haven: fierce passion, unyielding loyalty.

Especially when it comes to their women.

 AMAZON LINK

4 STARS 

I found this story kind of hard to rate.  Probably because of the seriousness of some of the issues that were addressed.  

It did have it's moments though.  It was really emotional with really good main characters.  It wasn't too hard to feel for both Callie and Danny.  One of the phrases that really grabbed my attention was when Callie having a really bad day.  She was invited to a bar and knew that was the LAST place she needed to be.  "Not while I (she) was feeling like a barrel of gunpowder in search of a gunfight."  Loved how that was written. 

There was more than one supporting cast of "family."  Meaning the family that had formed to become a family by choice mainly.  And there were quite a few of them.  Someone who was a colorful support for Callie was her sponsor, Maggie. 

Most of the physical danger comes towards the end of the book but it got pretty dramatic.

I liked how the story ended with a good Epilogue included.  I gotta give Callie points for finally facing some pretty hard stuff.

 " I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley. And these are my honest opinions about it.”

*** Book Review- Lethal Force (Axel Blaze Thriller # 2) by Bill Runner

   

General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers 

 “I’ve dealt with lots of dangerous men, men like you, who kill people over nothing. But sometimes, they mess with the wrong guy.”

Ex-deputy US Marshal Axel Blaze knows how to deal with dangerous men. A background in the special forces and the US Marshals has made him a tactical fighter and lethal opponent. Following the successful debut of Blaze Returns, Bill Runner is back with the second novel in the Axel Blaze thriller series.

When Blaze takes out a Mexican cartel’s operations in Nevada, the cartel sends hitmen after him and everyone he cares about. Bad move. What the cartel doesn’t realize is, it has messed with a Lethal Force.

Blaze will go after them. Put the fear of death in them. Before striking back. Hard. 

 AMAZON LINK

5 STARS

 This story was totally unpredictable and starts off with a bang and just keeps going.
It's just like the book blurb says when it states when someone comes after the people Axel cares about?  He's striking back and he's striking back hard.  He was smart, skilled and loyal to people he cares about.  I liked that he was even encouraging to good people when he didn't have to be.  When people asked him how he always seems to get unavailable Intel, he said he always had ears to the ground.  And that is proven time after time.  He's also not interested in glory but in justice and winning against evil.
Those fighting against him, who aren't dead will be looking for orthopedic surgeons as soon as they can get back up. *wink*  Some unexpected people show up to help him in his crusade, adding so much more to the story.  These new friends  show up, people who have been hidden in their fight against the cartel.  I liked that it showed Blaze not only as a killing machine but also showed the more human side to him.
There were a few times that the military weaponry information got a bit more intricate that I would have liked.  But the author sure seemed to know his stuff and the actual story was to good to quit.  
The ending was everything I could have hoped for.

" I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley. And these are my honest opinions about it.”

 

*** Book Review- Demon's Mercy (Dark Protectors Book 9) by Rebecca Zanetti

   

A fairy falls in lust with a vampire-demon she’s meant to kill in this paranormal romance from the New York Times–bestselling author of Fallen.
 
Duty meets desire . . .
 
Mercy O’Malley hates killing people. So when she’s assigned to take out Vampire-Demon Logan Kyllwood, she lures him to a seedy bar in Scotland—then decides to kidnap him instead. How can she cold-bloodedly end all that heat, those green eyes…that ripped body?
 
Unfortunately for Mercy, attempted murder and kidnapping are just foreplay for the Kyllwood brothers. Logan may be the youngest of the bunch, but death and violence are already a way of life.  Now he’s ready to complete a painful, terrifying ritual to become one of the Seven, dedicated to protecting this world from the most dangerous evil it’s ever known. But first he has to deal with a blackmailing Fae, a ransom demand and his own pounding need for the last female he ever should have fallen for….
  AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

Another good story in the series.  Mercy, Mercy, Mercy what an unusual woman you are.  A strange mix of pixie attractiveness, full of brain power and sass.  Of course that's not all of her gifts as the story will show.  She's also a mix of innocence in some ways and skill and cunning in other ways.  She thinks she's got everything covered when it comes to the immortals and Logan.   But real life is a whole lot more dangerous and fierce than her studies.  She's a flat out newbie when it comes to them.  But she is a fast learner.

Logan is intrigued by this fairy, oh excuse me they want to be called Fae.  He underestimated her more than once and had a few lumps to thank for it.  She might not be a trained fighter but she does have a few moves.  The interactions between the two of them was not only interesting but often funny too. 

There is plenty of action and some really good worlds building in the story.  Which is something that I expect.  

It finishes which a good ending..for now.  More adventures await in the next book with  Ivar and Promise. 

I read this book through the Hoopla Library App. 

 

Book Review- Code Name: Libra by [Janie Crouch]

    

My code name is Libra. The stars say I’m charismatic, intelligent, charming.

The one with the easy smile.

Zodiac Tactical has been the biggest part of my life for the past three years. We guard, protect, rescue...eliminate the threat when nobody else can. And I’ve always been at the front lines—first to help in whatever way was needed.

Until I took a bullet to the chest.

Now everybody’s worried about me. So I’m sent on what’s supposed to be an easy mission—gathering intel about some potential bad guys while on a tropical island for a wedding. Lay low, blend in, catch a little tan while getting the job done. Can’t be too hard.

Until I defend the bride’s adorable sister against some cruel cattiness and the next thing I know I’m mentioning I’m her fiancé.

Surprise.

When the mission takes a turn for the much more dangerous, and my fiancée finds herself in the middle of it, I will do whatever it takes to keep her safe. My wounds may have knocked me down, but a Navy SEAL, even former one with a couple extra bullet holes, always gets back up.

My code name is Libra. Don’t let the easy smile fool you.

AMAZON LINK 

4 STARS

 

 "My code name is Libra. Don’t let the easy smile fool you."   That right there in the book info hooked me before I even opened the first pages.  I loved that !  Can't explain it, it just is. 

I found the story to be kind of a bit different.  Both main characters were engaging and Bethany sure deserved a break from her demanding family.   Her mother was the first and main one who deserved a set down.  Critical, much?  Next in line is the groom's mother, Patricia.  There is another person who really deserved more like maybe a fist to the face and that was Mina.  Should have been named Meana because she was entitled,  nasty and always trying to stir things up against sweet Bethany.  

Landon Black (Libra) is finding himself between a rock and a hard place.  The more time he spends with Bethany, the more he wants her.  I liked the nickname he gave her of Wildflower and how he came up with it.  Landon is walking a tightrope between his need to keep  his attention on his mission and his attraction to Bethany.

Things stay calm for a while except for the tension of the drama of the family wedding.  Then dangers begin to mount and it comes from a few unexpected directions as well.   More surprises follow bringing everything to a good conclusion.

 

   " I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion about it.

*** Book Review- Agent of Change ( Book 4 of The Fae-touched Chronicles) by Jennifer Sanders

 

 One mistake ruined her life.

Abandoned by her first love--or so she believed--Lady Constance Mayweather carved out a life of security for herself and her son with a man she did not love. When her husband is murdered and her child stolen, she must rely on the one man she knows she should not trust to bring her son safely home.

One mistake cost him everything.

Wealthy, witty, sinfully handsome Quinn Rutherford is the despair of hopeful Victorian debutantes: a man with nothing better to do than gamble, drink, and seduce his way into an early grave. But this shallow exterior hides her Majesty’s perfect Agency operative: clever, ruthless, reckless, fearless. A tangled web of murder, kidnapping, and a plot against the throne lead Quinn to brave the dangers of the Fae realm itself to save the woman he loved and lost--and the child he never knew--from forces he cannot fully comprehend.

In a race against magic, time, and the pain of the past, can they get to their son before he is lost to the Fae realm forever?

 AMAZON LINK

 5+ STARS

Both Quinn and Constance had such depth to them and they both pulled me in pretty quickly.  I cared what happened to them.  I also cared what happened to Constance's son, Leander.  He also causes some surprises on his own, even for as young as he was.

The written imagery is so out-of-this-world good.  Both in the creatures, the Fae world's, each Fae realm having their own rules, and the dangers that the main characters encounter. But there is also some good supernatural "people" in the story too.  Some of them bringing their own brand of humor.  

The story is totally unpredictable which I enjoyed. Also some of the additional people in the story were enjoyable and often helpful.   

For me, the story comes to a great ending, bringing some relief and joy as well.  I enjoyed every bit of it.

 

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

** Book Review- Starry-Eyed Love by Helena Hunting

 

 Romance

 Having just broken up with her boyfriend, London Spark is not in the mood to be hit on. Especially not when she’s out celebrating her single status with her sisters. So when a very attractive man pays for their drinks and then slips her his number, she passes it right back to him with a ‘thanks, but no thanks’. As the business administrator for their family’s event hotel, the Spark House, London has more important things to worry about, like bringing in new clientele.

As luck would have it, a multi-million-dollar company calls a few months later asking for a meeting to discuss a potential partnership, and London is eager to prove to her sisters, and herself, that she can land this deal. Just when she thinks she has nailed her presentation, the company’s CEO, Jackson Holt, walks in and inserts himself into the meeting. Not only that, but he also happens to be the same guy she turned down at the bar a few months ago.

As they begin to spend more time together, their working relationship blossoms into something more. It isn’t until their professional entanglements are finally over, that London and Jackson are finally ready to take the next step in their relationship. But between Jackson’s secretive past and London’s struggle with her sisters, London must question where she really stands - not just with Jackson, but with the Spark House, too.  

 AMAZON LINK

3.5 STARS

For me this story was long and slow. I did appreciate how well places and things were detailed. It did have some good moments and some cute times but I just wanted this story to pull me in more and sadly it just didn't.  I also felt like Jackson kept confusing London with switching between hot and cold.  He would be all in with her and then he was standoffish without any explanation.  I didn't think that was much of a class act.

Avery, the older sister of London's I really didn't like. Sure, she added tension to the story.  But hey, just because you're the older sister you think you should call the shots in this partnership ?

 I wasn't really into all of the focus on the "green and environmentally friendly choices."  I'm all for that but I just didn't really want to read about it that much.

 I liked that London and Jackson get their hard fought H.E.A. even if I never really felt their connection very strongly. 

" I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley. And this is my honest opinions about it.”

*** Book Review- "Stolen Risk" Aegis Group Task Force#1) by Sidney Bristol.

   

Jamie Silva helps lead a specialized team that works to tackle the difficult jobs. The ones the government can't be party to. When his team is recruited to join an off-the-books task force he knows the stakes are higher than ever before. He just didn't think the job would include seducing the CEO of a major tech company, or that he'd want her up against a wall, in bed or anywhere else.

Tabby Grissler is tired of waiting for Mr. Right, at least until tall, dark and handsome sits next to her at a charity event. He ticks all her boxes, except he's lying to her. Confronted with the reality that her dream guy is a government spy merely marks the beginning. Someone has stolen her tech with the intent to create a global blackout and in order to stop them, she'll have to work with Jamie. But she doesn't have to trust him.

Thrown together, Tabby and Jamie must put aside their differences and ignore their chemistry if they're going to get to the bottom of the international theft. But each clue leads them further down the rabbit hole and time is running out.

AMAZON LINK 

5 STARS

Jamie and Tabby were each a One of a Kind person.  I really enjoyed their part in this story.  One of my favorite observations made by someone who really knew Jamie was:  Who he is doesn't match with who he looks like (on the outside).  What a great comment and I could really see it. And not only for him but also Tabby.  She was scary smart as a whip but she also had secret personal wishes.  So did Jamie but it takes quite a while for them both to come clean about that.  Makes for some interesting times, for sure.  

The dangers in this story was almost like a three-ring-circus and I don't mean that in a bad way.  It kept the story unpredictable and intense. 

Jamie's team members were each unique in their own way.  They teased Jamie about being a  Serial Monogamist, always looking for "The One".  But they also had his back 100% and he has theirs.

I liked how the story had a dramatic, and romantic ending with all of the enemies taken care of.  Well, except for one identity not yet revealed.  Still, this was a good standalone story but with the door open for more adventures with others. 

 

***Book Review- Ruthless Rival (Cruel Castaways, #1) by L.J. Shen

   

General Fiction (Adult), Romance 

Description

From Wall Street Journal bestselling author L.J. Shen comes an enemies-to-lovers romance about the fine line between seeking revenge and finding love.

When she was young, Arya Roth became best friends with her housekeeper’s son. Soon, friendship turned to young love, and when Arya dared him to kiss her, a chain reaction of disastrous events led to the boy being sent away and out of Arya’s life.

Now, two decades later, Arya is an on-the-rise publicist with her beloved father as one of her biggest clients. So when her father is sued by a former employee, Arya sets out to prove that her father is not the monster he is accused of being. The only problem is the attorney who is determined to destroy her father’s good name. Christian Miller is charming, ambitious, and devilishly good looking, and Arya has no idea he is that same boy who kissed her all those years ago.

Past and present collide as Arya falls hard for Christian. But when she finds out who he really is and about his obsession with getting revenge on her father, can she choose love over family?

 AMAZON LINK

5 STARS

Usually a story with it switching back and forth between time frames is something that I don't enjoy.  But I have to say that this book did it so much better than most. It was smooth, it flowed and didn't feel that it disrupted the story. 

The story started out with me thinking, "okay. That's not bad."  I can't even begin to tell you exactly when it pulled me all the way in.  I do know some of the why's though.   It was so well written, great, tough main characters, emotional in ways that were well felt, with plenty of mysteries, plenty of plots and outright lies. It really kept things jumping and interesting.  And the "hate" between Arya and Christian was stellar. 

I ended up giving it highest marks because if I had to use on word about this book it would be: "Surprising''. Surprising in the best possible way.

 

 " I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley. And these are my honest opinions about it.”

** Book Review- Hunt Her (Come For Me #2) by Kelly Finley

     

General Fiction (Adult) | Romance

Description

Is the hottest love worth a lethal life?

Charlie Ravenel wasn’t supposed to fall in love on the job, not with the Sexiest Man Alive. But her record of following rules is shot to hell. As a bodyguard and former Marine, she’s ruthless at protecting women. As one with dark secrets, she was safe until she fell for him.

But how could she resist? He's wanted by millions... yet he only pursues her.

Daniel Pierce is a sexy, A-list celebrity—a dream on the screen and a beautiful beast in bed. When Charlie walked onto set, this alpha male met his match and his greatest love. And… he met danger.

What threatens them more? A stalker intent on revenge? Crazed paparazzi and fans for the alluring couple? A past Daniel can’t tell her about? Or a haunt Charlie fears?

If they can survive it all, there is such passion and love between them, and a surprise future they must protect.

There’s only one problem—everyone is hunting her now.

HUNT HER, Book Two in the COME FOR ME series is a steamy, racy, romantic suspense novel featuring a kickass heroine who lets Hollywood’s sexiest man love her… despite the risk.

*This book is not for the fainthearted. This deep romance explores the dark theme of stalking.

 AMAZON LINK

 4 STARS

Oops I think I goofed on this one. I missed the fact that it was a series and I haven't read the first book. I think it might have been better if I had. Although it didn't really take me long to find my feet on this one.  And the tensions stay high throughout. 

 I did like that there was a dual P.O.V.'s in the story. You could almost feel all the secrets that these two each had. I really liked kick-butt Charlie.  She had a tender, big heart, always protecting the helpless.  But you mess with her and you reap the pain.  

I also liked beautiful Daniel as well.  Even if he was often clueless when it came to the dangers in his life.  As an actor, everyone adored him and he got waay to close to his fans.   He's being rather naive about that.  Is he ever going to get it?  

There are other colorful people in the story and I enjoyed them.

There is also the added plus of getting the unnamed" ANONYMOUS hunter's" P.O.V. as well. 

I did feel that although the sex scenes between Charlie and Daniel were well written, there was also too many of them.  I never like it when that part almost feels like it begins to overshadows the actual story.   

Everything comes to a dramatic end for now with several surprises. So I have to say that I liked it but with some reservations.

 

 " I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley. And these are my honest opinions about it.”

Book Review- Impossible (The Phoenix Club #5) by Darcy Burke

   

Romance

Description

Ada Treadway has been in love before, and it brought nothing but heartache. Still, she retains her cheerful optimism and is fiercely protective of the independence and respect she’s earned as bookkeeper of the Phoenix Club. When the owner enlists her help to organize his friend’s estate ledgers, she’s eager to prove her expertise and her worth. But his friend turns out to be a disagreeable, unpleasant beast, and Ada works to find the warm-hearted gentleman she’s sure lurks beneath.

Maximillian Hunt, Marquess of Warfield doesn’t care if he lives to see tomorrow, and he certainly doesn’t want to recall yesterday. The arrival of the meddlesome and effusively positive woman who will put his accounts in order not only reminds him of the past he’s desperate to forget, she sparks something within him he thought dead. Tempted by a future he never imagined, he must do the impossible: convince her that he’s worth risking her heart a second time.

AMAZON LINK

 3.STARS

Ada was quite the character, who appeared to be all sunshine and roses.  Someone who had never had anything ever blot out her happiness. But she had such depth and suffered her share of pain.  She also had fought her way through them and fought to stay positive and overcome.  She was also kind and clever.  I liked her and her unrelenting curiosity.   She has her work cut out with the Beast of Stonehill (Max). 

Max has suffered too and not just the physical pain but the emotional pain as well.   The memories from war but also the loss of family. 

Max was so off-putting that I wondered how this story would end.  Also how Ada was going to "get" to him.  Because you knew she would wear him down and as she did you saw that he was worth it. 

There were other people who played good parts in the story, especially Max's friends.  Lucien in particular had been fighting an uphill battle to bring back his friend. 

The story has depth and a good ending with an Epilogue.  I just wish I had liked it more. 

 

 " I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley. And these are my honest opinions about it.”

Health Benefits of Singing

  
  

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Book Review- The Book Glasses by Arthur Bozikas

   

23-year-old Samantha Page cannot read, and she's running out of money. She's never held down a job, and is losing hope of ever improving her life.

Everything changes when she finds a pair of glasses that turn her into a supercomputer. Spellbound upon discovering a world of books and words, Sam’s thirst for knowledge is relentless. Her newfound abilities lead her to university, followed by previously unreachable opportunities and incredible wealth.

Sam isn’t the only one who knows about the glasses; there are others who seek the power they provide. But is she willing to hold on to them, even if it means losing everything she loves?

AMAZON LINK 

3.5 STARS

 This story was well written with pretty good world building  But I wanted to like it more than I did.  Not sure why but it just didn't pull me in like I had hoped.  Although I did like Samantha especially in the beginning, I guess it just wasn't my cup of tea.   At the end it did kind of leave the door open for more adventures because of the  cliffhanger. 

*** Book Review- A Rogue by Any Other Name: The First Rule of Scoundrels (Rules of Scoundrels Book 1) by Sarah Maclean

 

 

What a scoundrel wants, a scoundrel gets. . .

A decade ago, the Marquess of Bourne was cast from society with nothing but his title. Now a partner in London's most exclusive gaming hell, the cold, ruthless Bourne will do whatever it takes to regain his inheritance—including marrying perfect, proper Lady Penelope Marbury.

A broken engagement and years of disappointing courtships have left Penelope with little interest in a quiet, comfortable marriage, and a longing for something more. How lucky that her new husband has access to an unexplored world of pleasures.

Bourne may be a prince of London's illicit underworld, but he vows to keep Penelope untouched by its wickedness—a challenge indeed as the lady discovers her own desires, and her willingness to wager anything for them . . . .even her heart.

AMAZON LINK 

 4.5 STARS

 This story turned out to be quite a good surprise.

The emotions were raw and well shown.  It also turns out that Penelope has more steel to her than she had ever known.   When push comes to shove she ends up surprising others as well. Her family what a bunch of title hungry people.  The only one that I liked was blunt, super smart  Lady Philippa Marbury. Her mother was a drama expert who blamed Penelope for her failed engagement right along side society.  Her father is desperate to see his daughters make good marriages, especially his eldest daughter Penelope.  He didn't want her heading to being a spinster.

The things that Bourne (Michael) had gone through has turned him into a cold, vengeful version of who he used to be.  He went from the laughing, mischievous young boy that Penelope remembered to this.  She kept looking for that smiling boy in the man and not finding him.  Michael had a few friends now but none that were really acceptable to the highbrow society that he used to be a part of.  But their friendship and their loyalty  was real.

I liked how the story ended and the Epilogue that followed. Turns out that Penelope and Michael are both gamblers, each in their own way.  And when they stand together no one can beat them !

I read this book through the Hoopla Library App.

** Book Review- Caught in Darkness (Night Shadows #1) by Rose Wulf

     

Romance

 

Description

Veronica Wyndham had no idea that vampires were real, let alone that her new favorite customer—Tall Dark and Handsome—just so happened to be one. And she never imagined she’d overhear a robbery plan with murderous potential while eating lunch in the park. Making those kinds of enemies just wasn’t a good way to spend a day.

Seth Hunter knew he should have been grateful for Veronica’s unintentional help in exposing the traitors, but all he could worry about was how much danger she’d just landed in. Instinct had him taking it upon himself to keep a protective eye on her, but even then he had to keep his distance. If she found out the truth about the world around her, she would surely get Caught in Darkness.

AMAZON LINK 

 4 STARS

This was a good story with good main characters and plenty of action.  Seth turned out to be quite the good guy in his own way.  He treated Veronica like a "normal" gentleman would even though he was a tremendous danger to outlaw vampires. 

I have to give Veronica points for being a gutsy woman even though she was a bit of a wimp when dealing with her mother.  But her sass and boldness will get her through some truly dangerous things.  

I like how most of the bad guys were taken care of and Seth and Veronica get their version of H.E.A.

" I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley. And these are my honest opinions about it.”

** Book Review- Lady of the Loch (The Fae-Touched Chronicles# 3) by [Jennifer Sanders, Christen Stovall]

    

Set in Victorian-era Scotland, this book is a romantic adventure with with a magical touch!
Raised to view the world through science, she is surrounded by magic she cannot see.
Orphaned Charlotte “Charlie” Whitfield has been raised by her eccentric uncle on the shores of Scotland’s most famous loch, hunting for scientific evidence of the beast that lives within. But there’s more than one monster on the loose, and when Charlie’s uncle goes missing, she must open her eyes to the truth of what’s around her—lest she be taken too.
He has dedicated his life to queen and country—but has he found something else to live for?
Special agent Asher Burton is on assignment to find the missing scientist, but the circumstances are far more than he bargained for: portals to other realms, a mysterious creature in the waters of Loch Ness, and a deadly Fae unleashed. Asher must pit his wits and will against absolute magic to bring his quarry home—and to protect the remarkable Charlie Whitfield.
In a place where nothing is quite what it seems, can Asher and Charlie unravel the mystery in time—or will they fall victim to the menace that threatens to devour them all?

AMAZON LINK 

3.5 STARS

 

I have been reading this series and enjoying each book.  I liked this one too however not as much as the ones before. Both Charlie and Asher were good main characters.  And the story had a good foundation however, it didn't pull me in quite as much as I would have liked.  I think for me it might have been too much time spent with the science and mentions of The Bard. 

On the up side there were good moments in the story too.  Charlie's Uncle Elias really fit the image of an absentminded professor to a "T". He loved his niece but also got lost when he entered his world of research.  Mrs. Lorna Alvin was a nice addition to the story in the few times she showed up.

There were some sweet times between Charlie and Asher was well as some wild times. As expected dangers do show up from supernatural sources. But there is at least one supernatural help that I really liked.

Everything is taken care of with and explosion of evil vs good leading to a H.E.A. There is  also an intriguing look into Quinn and his story coming up in a future book.  Now that one sounds interesting.

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

***Book Review- Discreet Destruction (Guardians of the Bones , #1 )by K.J. Jackson

    

A wayward ruler of the London underworld. The woman determined to protect him at all costs. Where betrayal and obsession meet, does love stand a chance in this adventure-filled historical romance?

He’s oblivious to the danger bearing down on him.
A titan of the rookeries, the last thing Declan Rudderton needs in his life is another thing to worry about. He has multiple gaming hells and his ever-expanding London empire that he has to manage. And it seems, as of late, he’s been bothered by the occasional alleyway knife-fight far too often. Yet he pushes forth, holding on—barely—until the day he discovers the maid he depends on to run everything around him isn’t anything he thought she was. She’s more—too much more. A betrayal—and temptation—like no other.

She’s been lying for years.
Verity Jones has been playing as a mute for years, working as a maid in the most lucrative gaming hell in the rookeries, all to get close to Declan, for it is her job as a guardian to ensure he is safe. She keeps him close, keeps him alive. A ruse that works to her advantage in every way, until the day Declan discovers she can speak. And read. And write. And was hired to be in life.

Her job—and life—is on the line.
Never mind that she fell in love with Declan long ago, Verity desperately needs this employ and cannot afford to lose it. Even though she destroyed every bit of trust Declan had in her and he now despises her, there is the matter of someone working hard to make sure Declan doesn’t see another sunrise. She swore to protect him and needs to uncover the threat, or she won’t just lose her job—she’ll lose the one person she would die for.

AMAZON LINK 

5+ STARS 

Wow, just wow!  This story was such an outrageously great story that I hardly know where to start. 

 I guess I can start with Verity because the secrets that she was keeping was off the charts.  And when she starts off in the beginning of the book,  she does so with gusto.  It took me almost no time at all to admire her guts, skills and really like her a lot. All the while she was doing her best to be almost invisible during her days as a maid. She's done a spectacular job until things hit the fan.  

Declan has secrets of his own but the most important ones are the ones he doesn't know but that surround him.   And they are doozie's when the dangerous answers finally come. He had such depth to him and his emotions were easy to feel.   I ended up pulling for both of the main characters fairly quickly.

The story kept me on the edge of my seat all the way through.  There was plenty of mysteries and action to keep me there. 

I enjoyed how the story ended.  It ended with them having an unusual family.  It also  brought out the best for everyone who was left alive. 

    " I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book,  and this is my honest opinion about it.

** Book Review- Immortal Rising (Argeneau #34) by Lynsay Sands

     

General Fiction (Adult) | Romance | Sci Fi & Fantasy

The Argeneaus are back! Filled with love, passion, and adventure, New York Times bestselling author Lynsay Sands returns with another sexy romance about everyone's favorite immortals.

Stephanie McGill was attacked and turned when she was just a teenager. Worse, her abilities are unlike any other immortal. Now 13 years later, with the help of her adopted Argeneau family, Steph has carved out a new – if not lonely – life for herself. Until a new neighbor arrives…

Thorne is also one-of-a-kind. The result of a genetic experiment, he’s not an immortal, but he’s not mortal either. He’s looking for a place to hide, to get some peace and quiet so he can figure things out, and Stephanie’s sanctuary is perfect. In fact, Stephanie is perfect. For the first time, Thorne is free to be himself and he’s falling for her.

But if they’re going to have a future together, they’ll first need to deal with their past…because the mad scientist who created Thorne is now after Stephanie.

 AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

 Stephanie has had such a hard life since she was 15 years old.  And those abilities had been like torture for so long. Hearing people's thoughts non-stop was why she was living a more isolated life. She had a really good support team of people who loved her and she loved them.  Her sister was part of that but the rest of the people were her new family. 

Thorne hadn't had a normal upbringing either but his was different starting from birth. But since his DNA has been messed with, he really hasn't had normal even before birth!

 This story had really good world building. Add to that some of the humor.  Especially when Stephanie had her embarrassing moments when she was talking to her cat or her dog.  Thorne heard a lot of the times when she was talking about how hot he was, among other things.  That was definitely funny as was her direct and honest ways with him. 

Everything ends dramatically and in the best possible ways.

 I received an ARC through Netgalley and am voluntarily providing an honest review.

***Book Review- Just Business by Sidney Bristol

   

Konstantin Titov built his empire with one goal in mind: to protect his daughter from his past. Ten years ago he left his father's compound in Siberia with an infant and a dream to live free from the criminal world his father thrives in. These days the biggest threat facing him is trying to not fall in love with the woman who completes his chosen family.

Haley Griffin knows she's sitting on a bomb. A couple, in fact. It's just a matter of which one blows up in her face first. Will it be her unquenchable desire for her boss? Or maybe the fact that she's doing her job and the nanny's? Life as live-in security was supposed to be easy, but no one warned her about the dangers of falling in love.

The delicate family balance is upset when Konstantin's past comes knocking. Haley is the only person Konstantin can trust to have his back, but being on the run together means facing the fact that he's very much in love with her. Together they'll face down an old threat and a new enemy all in the name of love and family.

 

AMAZON LINK 

5 STARS

This story slowly and steadily drew me in.   That's not saying that the story was too slow though.  It wasn't but it did build a good foundation in the story.  One that kept me interested.

Konstantin (Kon), his daugher, Zasha and Hailey all made for good main characters.  It didn't take long to care about them.  Even Zasha's nanny elderly Ivana played an important part.   

When danger does come after Kon, it doesn't come lightly.  Also it began to become clear that not everything was as it seemed.   And it also made things harder for both Kon and Hailey to keep their distance. They were so attracted to each other but managed to keep that under wraps for so long. Neither one saying or doing anything about it either.  Until...they did.  Everything was up in the air though because they were just trying to keep everyone alive and to keep evil away.

Things really explode even more towards the good with plenty of surprises and then a good, satisfying ending. 

 

   " I voluntarily read a copy of this book,  and this is my honest opinion about it.