BOOK REVIEW- Royal Reckoning (The Keeper's Series #5) by Stephanie St. Klaire

   

Rogue operative, Eli Clayton has finally met his match. Now he just has to keep her alive... even if it means revealing his true identity.

Event coordinator to the rich and famous, Cally Stark is immune to Eli’s dazzling charm and dangerous good looks. But that doesn’t stop her from falling for him and building a life— on a throne of lies.

Eli’s secrets have made Cally the perfect target and she finds herself lured into enemy territory, taken and used in an elaborate and twisted scheme to take down Eli’s entire bloodline.

What do you do when the woman you vowed to protect is a pawn trapped in a deadly game? You go to the ends of the earth to save her and eliminate the players one by one.

Check mate.

This jaw dropping, pulse pounding series is sure to leave you breathless as the wicked twists and turns keep you guessing!

 BOUGHT AT-

 AMAZON LINK

3 STARS 

To be honest, this story was hard for me to get into.    But to be fair,  maybe part of the problem was that this was the first book I have read in this series.  I found it all a bit confusing.  I did like the direct team members and their family like cohesion. However, after that it just seemed to add more people, making it harder to keep up. I recognized that it had depth to the writing, both in the emotions, the technology and the warfare.   Early on there was also some repetitiveness to how much Eli hated his evil father and how he had good reason to.  A bit too much for my taste. 

There is a whirlwind of action and surprises towards the end with a H.E.A. for now for  Eli and Cally.  Why just for now?  Because there is more trouble possible on the horizon.

  I'm  just sorry that I couldn't seem to connect to the story.

BOOK REVIEW- Pretend You Want Me (Wilde Ways# 13) by Cynthia Eden

   

She fixes problems.

There is no problem that Aspen Gray can’t handle. No case that is too hard. No challenge too great. She’s a rising star criminal defense attorney, and she intends to have the world at her feet…until a ghost from her past comes back to wreck her carefully designed plans. A ghost who should have been in the ground. And when a dead man comes stalking you, what’s a woman to do?

Let things get Wilde.

As soon as she sets foot in the elite protection and security firm known as Wilde, Aspen knows that she must tread carefully. Her life is on the line, and everything that she has worked so hard to achieve can be destroyed…unless one very talented and dangerous Wilde agent can help her out. She needs a man with exceedingly deadly skills—and she needs him now.

He can practically see the secrets dripping from her…

It should have been a standard undercover operation. Gideon Ranier knew the drill. He was supposed to play the role of his new client’s boyfriend so that he could slip into her world, keep her safe, and unmask the jerk screwing around with her. Standard work. No big deal. Former Delta Force, he could do that type of job in his sleep. Except…he doesn’t count on actually falling for his client. But he does. Hard, fast, and deep, and soon…there is nothing that he won’t do for her.

It’s personal.

Lines are crossed. Desire grows too strong. Their need won’t be denied. But the attacks on Aspen are mounting. As an obsessed killer plays a deadly game, Gideon will have no choice but to fight harder and dirtier than he’s ever fought in his life in order to protect Aspen from a stalker hellbent on vengeance.

Author’s Note: He’s dangerous. She’s devious. They shouldn’t want each other so badly, but they do. Close proximity, a deadly threat…adrenaline is pumping and the desire between Aspen and Gideon will not be controlled. He’ll walk through hell to keep her safe…and, yes, he’s pretty much gonna have to do just that. Sexy times, dangerous deeds, and a happy ending are guaranteed in this stand-alone read. Be on the lookout for secrets, because there sure are plenty of those coming your way!

AMAZON LINK 

 5 STARS

 This was a great story, one in which you never knew what was going to happen next!
Both main characters were good in their own way.  Aspen had so MANY dangerous secrets; ones that for a long time she kept to herself.  She was used to protecting herself even though she had some pretty dangerous friends and associates.  Still she didn't want them drawn into her dangers as she was being stalked.  No one else wasn't going to be hurt on her watch!  Too bad that Gideon wasn't buying that, not for a minute.  He was all in not only before he learns her darkest secrets but even after. Those two were interesting to watch as the lover part became true but also the deepening friendship.
Lots of surprises in this book until it gets towards the end and the BIGGEST surprises of all. Overall, a wild journey.
Great ending that includes a hard fought for H.E.A.

 I got a free copy of this book (through a newsletter and this is my honest thoughts on it)

BOOK REVIEW- Alpha One (Shadow Agents # 1) by Cynthia Eden

  

“Julie’s missing. You have to get her back.”

The minute he got the message, undercover agent Logan Quinn sprang into action. Getting Juliana James out of Mexico alive was the Elite Ops covert agent’s only priority. But once the senator’s daughter was safely back in their Mississippi hometown, Logan had a new mission: to get another chance with the woman he couldn’t lose again.

Juliana had never forgotten the day, ten years ago, when Logan left her heart in pieces. Now he was back in her life, sworn to protect her from the ruthless weapons dealer who wanted her dead. As passion blindsided her—and she was once again thrust into danger—Julie realized how much she’d risk for one more day in Logan’s arms.

AMAZON LINK 

4 STARS

 It was a good story with plenty of emotions and the dangers that can we expected on this kind of story.
Juliana's father was some piece of work.  As crooked as the day was long.  But he hadn't always been that way. But his crooked ways really put her running for her life while trying to escape the love that she had never got over for Logan.  And Logan? Oh, the secrets that this man had.  One of the major ones was that he loved her but had run out on her years ago, thinking she deserved better than a killer.
The team that comes with Logan were good, skilled people putting their lives on the line.  
There were several twists toward the end that kept things interesting and tense.
I liked how the story ended even though this probably wasn't my favorite by this author.

I read this book through the HOOPLA Library App.

BOOK REVIEW- Single Dad on Top: A Billionaire and a Baby Romantic Comedy by J.J. Knight

 

 Billionaire bachelor, meet your secret baby. Instructions not included.
A single dad romantic comedy from the Top 100 author of the Pickleverse

I'm always on top.
My penthouse.
My corporate office above Manhattan.
And, of course, the women in my life.

Actually, I might choose any position.
But make no mistake. I choose. I control.
My life is mine.

Which is why I'm not sure what the hell is going on when I open my front door and there's a baby stroller sitting in the private hall outside my penthouse.

The note on the infant simply says, "Do the DNA. She's yours."

Well, damn.

BOUGHT AT:

AMAZON LINK 

3.5 STARS

This story had a good presentation of who both of the main characters were.  They also had some interesting growing up experiences. That was unexpected.  So was the set up when it came to the baby.

Although it was interesting and slightly amusing to see how clumsy, and ill-prepared Dell was after awhile it became too much for me.  Although the author did a good job of what babies were like, hey I already raised mine and wanted more story.  

Part of the "adventure" was finding the mother of the baby and Arianna, pulled her weight.  Actually more than her weight. 

Sad to say, I began to lose interest about half way through but I do give the author points of knowing her baby stuff and the H.E.A.

BOOK REVIEW- Just Shoot Me Dead (#1 of the Lucy Fong Mystery series) by Anne R. Tan

 

  This title is part of the hoopla BONUS BORROWS COLLECTION! Through the month of February, you can borrow this title without using any of your monthly hoopla Instant Borrows!
While on a blind date with a doctor and his mama, Lucy Fong gets a call that her estranged mom is found shot in the stomach, in her private investigation office. She returns to Morro Cliff Village to search for answers and her sister... and finds only a dead body in her sister's apartment.

When the local police chief zeros in on her sister as a "person of interest," Lucy must brush up her sleuthing skills. It's a race to find her sister, before the police and the killer do.

She must use all her wits (and those, she can borrow) to find this hidden killer, before he strikes at her family again.

AMAZON LINK 

 4.5  STARS

Well,that was fun!  This was my first story from this author and into this series but I really enjoyed it.  It was fun and funny with plenty of things that needed a sleuth to uncover. 

Bosom Buddies was a cute term. And they did end up being partners in crime of a sort.   Stella & Po Po make up that team.  Po Po is the woman who chose to be an adoptive grandmother to Lucy and Stella was an actual relative.  An aunt on the Faye side.

I liked the descriptive writing style like: Po Po hopped out (of the car) like there was a grenade strapped to her backside.  In fact I enjoyed the whole flow of the writing.

You never knew what was going to happen, so totally unpredictable.  Now, that is something that I like.

Let's not leave out Max, the town's sheriff, who was hard to get a handle on.  He seemed to blow hot and cold with Lucy.  But hey, he had a crime to investigate when it came to her family.  And there were also were other things that were happening too.

Loved how the story ended but also left the door open for more adventures in the future.  No cliffhangers in this story though so I'm also thankful for that. 

I read this story through HOOPLA (Library App)

BOOK REVIEW- The One Who Got Away (Wilde Ways Book #12) by Cynthia Eden

   

He has to get her back.

Antony Kyle can’t believe what’s happening to him. First, Ella Webb—the head of security at his gaming company—quits on him. Then…she kisses him as if she’s never wanted anyone more. They spend one incredible night together—a night that brands him to his core—and he wakes to find her gone. Gone.

No, not happening. Antony is not about to lose her now. Not when he’s been obsessed with her for years. He can’t have a taste and then lose…everything.

She’s done with his lies.

Ella has been in love with her gorgeous, genius boss for far too long. And she’s put up with his lies and secrets…for far too long! She’d fallen for his helpless act, thought that the man needed her, but now she has learned the truth. Antony Kyle is a secret spy, more than capable of looking after himself and taking out a whole army of bad guys. So, she gives in to the need that she’s always felt for him, she allows herself one, unforgettable night with him, then she walks away.

But he follows her.

Antony can’t lose Ella—not when he’s finally had the woman he’s wanted so desperately. But she’s got a new job at Wilde—an elite protection and security firm—and he has to figure out a way to woo her back. So, he hires Wilde. Says that he needs protection. He pulls some strings (because the owner of Wilde happens to owe him about a dozen favors), and Antony gets Ella assigned as his bodyguard. He thinks his plan is brilliant. He’ll have Ella in close proximity again, and Antony is sure that he’ll able to convince her that they belong together. Though some groveling—and a whole lot of seduction—may just be involved in his master plan.

Except…the danger turns out to be real.

Someone is gunning for Antony, and he doesn’t know if his enemy is from the spy world or the business world. He just knows that a big target is on his back. Now he and Ella have to unmask the threat that they never saw coming, before it’s too late. As they fight to track the bad guy, Antony has to prove to Ella that he can be honest with her, and, if she gives him a shot…he just might be a man she can love. Because if he loses her again, Antony knows there will be no second chances.

Author’s Note: Their sexual tension can’t be held in check. When Ella and Antony are close, they ignite. But with so many secrets and lies, can they find a happy ending? It will take a master spy—and one very savvy new Wilde agent—to bring down the bad guy in this case. Wilde times are ahead again. Let’s see where these two lovers lead as they fight for each other.

BOUGHT AT: 

 AMAZON LINK 

4 STARS

 I have to admit that to having mixed feelings on this one.  Did I like the main characters? I have to say Yes.  Did I like the plot being unusual? Again, Yes.  And it held some surprises. Let's talk about each of the main characters before I go any farther.

Antony really was a genius and yes, he was also really bad dealing with people.   Well, maybe the word bad isn't exactly right, maybe more inept is a better fit. However, he had some really interesting secrets too. Lies, that are now biting him in the butt.  Dex is the mastermind behind so many of Antony's secrets and I got to say that I didn't really like him.  A lot.

Ella was super skilled at her job before she quit her job.  But the lies from Antony are what helped propel her out the door.   But once she quit, there was her chance for a kiss, which quickly escalated and scared the heck out of her.  So she ran for her life!

But they both will be running for their lives more as the story continues.  While I liked all the action and secrets being revealed, I just can't put my finger on why I didn't like it more. 

Had to give it points for a hard fought for H.E.A  at the end.

 

BOOK REVIEW- COLD LIGHT OF DAY (Missing in Alaska #1) by Elizabeth Goddard

   

Christian | Mystery & Thrillers | Romance  

Description

Police Chief Autumn Long is fighting to keep her job in the quiet Alaska town of Shadow Gap when an unexpected string of criminal activity leaves her with a wounded officer, unexplained murders, and even an attack on her own father. Despite her mistrust of outsiders, she turns to Grier Brenner, a newcomer who seems to have the skills and training Autumn needs to face this threat to her community.

Grier is in Alaska for the same reason so many others are--to disappear--when Chief Long enlists his help. He emerges from the shadows and proves his mettle, but his presence in her life could be a deadly trap for them both. If his secret is exposed, all will be lost. And he's not sure even Autumn could save him.

As the stakes rise and the dangers increase, Autumn and Grier must rely on each other to extinguish the deadly threats. 

 

 AMAZON LINK

 5 STARS

 

The first thing that comes to mind is the really great world building.  It almost began to feel like a really good travel log. It gave more insight to places and histories of areas in Alaska.  Although that was good, it also slowed the story for me, which I didn't enjoy quite as much. Because I wanted the "story" about the people.

The unexpected rescue of Sarah stirred things up big time.  And that just adds into the "so many questions" category.

Grier nailed it when he thought he had to help Chief Autumn.  He couldn't stand by and watch a bunch of nitwits on the city council try to pull her down.  Especially Wally who seemed to be the biggest nitwit thorn in her side.  Grier even goes the extra mile to bring in some people he knows to help with the dives, even though he's trying to hide.  He knew it was a risk though because he was trying to NOT get his face on the news. 

This were a bit slow getting into the story BUT when it took off it really did.  INTENSE all the rest of the way through, with surprise after surprise.

I was crossing my fingers for the romance to go from the cagey friendship to the romance that their attraction promised. Because what worthy main characters they were and so easy to be drawn into.

I liked how faith in God was so subtly woven into the story.  And I liked how the story ended even better.

 

 

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

 

(read through Netgalley)

 

BOOK REVIEW- Texas Bodyguard: Luke (San Antonio Security Book 1) by [Janie Crouch]

     

She’s seen too much
And he’s running out of time to save her…

The last person security expert Luke Patterson ever expected to see again is in desperate trouble. Claire Wallace witnessed her boss’s murder…and the killer is tearing her quiet life apart to find her. Luke will do anything to protect the childhood friend he never forgot. But as their secrets become an inescapable trap, will they survive to have any future?

AMAZON LINK 

5 STARS

A clever, emotional and out of the box good story..all the way through.  

First off, Claire might seem like a mousy, almost invisible woman but she's really not.  She is a computer genius who isn't comfortable around people.  Blame that on her upbringing, the foster system didn't really do her any favors.  But Luke had many years ago.  Her youth and fragility had brought out the protector in him and that hasn't changed.  It's been may years but he never forgot her.  So when she shows up desperate for help, he was all in.  

The evil Vance Ballard kept stacking things against her where it seemed she'd never get out of it alive.  He had power, people in high places esteemed him and was constantly putting out misinformation and false evidence against her.   But Luke and his brothers were a skilled group of people who were 100% on her side.  Luke was convinced of her innocence. Although it took a bit of time, the brothers quickly had both of their backs.  And they are going to need that help. It was edge of the seat action all the way.  I couldn't wait to see how they were going to stick it to the bad guy. 

 Lest I forget, applause also goes out to Khan.  Khan is a Maine Coon cat, who is more like a dog and is totally loyal to Claire. I can't even begin to tell you how much I  loved that dog-cat.  He was a star in the story too!

Great ending to the story, with a high-five to the author.  And a great beginning again for Claire and Luke. 

 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Indelibly Yours (Tasty Temptations Series # 2) by Monica Myers

 

 General Fiction (Adult) | Romance 

 

Description

He tattoos her skin; she gets under his. Can these two ever find something permanent together?

Joel’s got the whole “gruff Viking pirate” thing nailed, with his somewhat-cranky attitude and a body that’s a living billboard for his arty tattoo studio.

But underneath the bad boy façade, he harbors a devotion to his adopted family that’s as true blue as his deepest indigo inks. All he wants is to make his business a success so that his people will be proud of him.

When his planned expansion is thwarted, Joel can’t help holding a grudge against the woman who stole his perfect location, no matter how enticingly adorable Olivia’s mussed hair and bunny slippers are.

For her part, Olivia has no idea she’s coming across as “bed-rumpled sex goddess” rather than “sleep-interrupted, perpetually frazzled single mom,” but either way her skin prickles the first time she meets the presumptive, cocky Joel.

She’s dreamed of meeting a Mr. Nice Guy to offer her and her daughter Abby some stability, and while she knows she shouldn’t judge a book by its cover (or a man by his ink, in this case), nothing about Joel screams “smooth sailing ahead.” So why then is she so drawn to him?

  AMAZON LINK  " A Hoot with some Heat too"

5 STARS 

What a fun story this turned out to be.  Funny and emotional with some good main characters.  Olivia and Joel are kind of good at self-sabotaging, with Joel being in a number #1 Class all by himself.  It was fun to see how bold and adventurous that Olivia used to be until life slapped her down.  Her relationship with her daughter was so good though.  And that girl, Abby she was innocently hilarious.  The things that came out of her mouth, made me laugh.  She was bold, adventurous and sweet just like her mother used to be.  

Joel what a grump he is just as advertised. In fact,his colorful best friend Zel said that Joel's love language was grumpiness.  Who wouldn't smile at that?  There is so much more to him than that but he also has the weight of the world on his back.  

If you want to enjoy another fun person, check out Granny V.  I fell in love with her just like everyone else. There is also more wacky people to enjoy too and I did. In fact, I enjoyed the whole story and liked the ending too.

 

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

(NETGALLEY)

Book Review- Grave Secrets (A Manhunters Novel #1) by Skye Jordan

   

Grab a cup of something warm and a blanket! It's winter in Montana!

I hope you love Savannah and Ian's story!

Forced into early retirement, former black ops operator, Ian Heller, has a couple of choices-playing security guard to an entitled hip-hop mogul or working for the civilian counterpart of his elite military unit, Manhunters, Inc. Tasked with terminating a cell of counterfeiters, who open the door to a fresh wave of terrorists, Ian must get close to the ex-wife of a key suspect. Sparks ignite between them, but Ian knows crossing the line with this woman would be the last thing he needs on his first assignment with his new team.

Savannah Bishop is trapped. Her ex-husband, the sheriff of Hazard County, Montana, runs his department the same way he tried to control his marriage-with intimidation and force. With her divorce final, Savannah can her taste freedom-until she is hit with a custody suit. Desperate to escape the daily harassment and hold onto her young son, Savannah accepts help from the only man in town willing to defy her ex. But when she discovers Ian is as much a chameleon as her ex, Savannah's hopes for both a new love and a fresh start are threatened.

AMAZON LINK 

 4 Stars

I HATE bullies and this book had a bunch of them!!  But because the story was so good I just soldiered on.  I wanted to see them get taken down, I couldn't wait.  Poor tortured Savannah needed to get free and have the last laugh.  But she's going to have to hang in there for a lot longer than she had hoped for.  
What a really good character Ian was.  And he had quite the line that he had to walk.  He had a mission to complete and there were all kinds of hidden and not so hidden dangers to it.  His attraction to Savannah was something he wasn't expecting.  But it caused plenty of emotions in that area for both of them.
Jamison was one interesting little guy and Savannah's son was suffering from the hostile atmosphere from his father Hank.   And from Lyle, his grandfather. But he still was a loving, gentle little boy mainly because of his mother.  
The dangers go off the chart when Savannah, Jamison and Ian have to make a run for it.  It wasn't going to be easy and it wasn't going to be quick. It's been tense all the way through and that continues until the end.
I liked how the story ended.  It also included a couple of sweet moments for all the main characters. 

BOOK REVIEW- Rules in Revenge (Blackhawk Security #2.5) by Nichole Severn

   

Bennett Spencer spent the past year searching for his sister. Now the Blackhawk Security investigator is out of leads, out of time and out of hope. Until he opens his door to find Autumn Staver, his sister’s best friend, who claims she just escaped the same abductor. Bennett and Autumn must join forces to hunt a brutal adversary, but they’re treading dangerous ground. Now, they’re in the crosshairs of someone desperate to keep a lethal secret buried.

This might be a shorter novel but it is jam packed with a lot of emotion, danger and good main characters.  I liked both Bennett and Autumn, although there were a few times I wanted to smack Bennett right in the head.  Why? He had a big chip on his shoulder against Autumn for not protecting his sister, Bella.  And that chip was totally unreasonable.  What could she have done, really?  Autumn was also suffering grief from the loss of her best friend.  A friend that was more like family to her.    Bella's disappearing had also tanked her relationship with Bennett.

I get the grief that Bennett was suffering from when it came to his missing, presumed dead sister.  I liked that he still called her "cupcake "when they did come face to face again.  That nickname was still in effect even if he was still trying to hate her.  

Good dramatic ending with a H.E.A. for Bennett and Autumn.  But it will be close. 

 I received a free copy of this book without being required to leave a review. These are my honest thoughts on it.

BOOK REVIEW- BOOK REVIEW- Major Crimes (# 4 of the Omega Sector: Under Siege series) by Janie Crouch

 

 Working together would bring down a killer.

But her secrets could tear them apart...

Hayley Green never wanted to see Omega special agent Cain Bennett again. Ever. He seduced her, then sent her to prison for hacking, and Hayley's only just started piecing her life back together. Except now Cain needs Hayley's help to catch a murderer. Their past is colliding with their still-smoldering attraction...and the only thing more dangerous than the killer is the secrets Hayley's been keeping. 

AMAZON LINK

 

Book Review- Eagle (Linear Tactical #2) by Janie Crouch

   

Finn Bollinger. Military codename: EAGLE.
A single dad, a warrior, a hero.

And the only person who can save Charlotte Devereux. The woman who once shattered his life.

When former Special Forces soldier Finn Bollinger is asked to help with an undercover mission, he's up for the task. His job teaching survival skills to civilians at Linear Tactical keeps him sharp, and he can still handle himself in the field.

But the Army damn well didn't teach Finn how to handle Charlotte Devereux. She's back and she's all sorts of bad news.

Charlotte can't change the past. Can't change the choices she made or the fact that they cost her everything. All she can do is endure the fallout. Even if that means putting her future in the hands of Finn, the man who has every right to want to destroy her.

And can in so many more ways than he thinks.

When Finn's undercover mission goes impossibly wrong, he'll have to depend on Charlotte's strength in order to survive. But everyone has a breaking point.

He's fighting for what's right.
She's fighting just to survive...

I BOUGHT THIS BOOK THROUGH: 

AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

This was another good book in this series.  Charlotte was best described as a tiny hurricane but the pain she has been through has left her bankrupt in so many ways.  Almost a shadow of her former self.  She also has a bank-vault of secrets. Pride has kept her silent for many years.  

Some of those secrets go all the way back to when she left Finn stunned by her betrayal.  I just kept thinking there had to be so much more to that part of the story and there was.   Right now she is desperate and running on empty.

Finn has had pretty of pain of his own, one of those being the major pain caused by Charlie as he calls her. He's hated her for a long time but he couldn't really forget her.  No matter what he told himself.

 Finn's son Ethan was  a good addition to the story.  What a rough start the two of them has had when Finn finally found him.  But they are tight now. 

There is plenty of dangerous action in the story with a few surprises but a great ending.  All in all though, I think I liked Book #1 (Cyclone) a bit better.  I just chalk it up to personal preference. Because they were both well written.

BOOK REVIEW- The Maid by Nita Prose

   

A charmingly eccentric hotel maid, discovers a guest murdered in his bed. Solving the mystery will turn her once orderly world upside down in this utterly original debut.

Molly Gray is not like everyone else. She struggles with social skills and misinterprets the intentions of others. Her gran used to interpret the world for her, codifying it into simple rules that Molly could live by.

Since Gran died a few months ago, twenty-five-year-old Molly has had to navigate life's complexities all by herself. No matter, she throws herself with gusto into her work as a hotel maid. Her unique character, along with her obsessive love of cleaning and proper etiquette, make her an ideal fit for the job. She delights in donning her crisp uniform each morning, stocking her cart with miniature soaps and bottles, and returning guest rooms at the Regency Grand Hotel to a state of perfection.

But, Molly's orderly life is turned on its head the day she enters the suite of the infamous and wealthy Charles Black, only to find it in a state of disarray and Mr. Black himself very dead in his bed. Before she knows what's happening, Molly's unusual demeanor has the police targeting her as their lead suspect. She quickly finds herself caught in a web of deception, one she has no idea how to untangle. Fortunately for Molly, friends she never knew she had unite with her in a search for clues to what really happened to Mr. Black-but will they be able to find the real killer before it's too late?

 A Clue-like, locked-room mystery and a heartwarming journey of the spirit, The Maid explores what it means to be the same as everyone else and yet entirely different-and reveals that all mysteries can be solved through connection to the human heart.

 AMAZON LINK

I heard about this book a lot and it made me curious about why people thought it was so good. I ended up disappointed.  

 The world building was very good. And I liked Molly and her unusual take on the world. However, sad to say I just couldn't finish this book.  Maybe I shouldn't even leave a review on Goodreads because of that.  But I tried, I really did.  It just wasn't my cup of tea and I finally quit trying to push through it. For me, I think it had to do with how naive Molly was and how people were using her because of it.  It just got larger, and wilder when it came to the schemes to use Molly.  One person was helping Molly when it came to interacting with people.  But even Giselle seems like she might also have an ulterior motive or two.  I wish I could have liked it more because it could be seen that author did a good job of writing. 

BOOK REVIEW- CYCLONE ( Linear Tactical Suspense #1)by Janie Crouch

"One rule," he said against her lips.
"Anything makes you nervous, brings back bad memories—you tell me right away. You don't try to power through anything. We go as slow as you need."

Meet Zac Mackay. Military codename: Cyclone .
He's a widower, a protector, a hero.

And the person who could destroy Anne's life.

Doctor Anne Griffin is back in Oak Creek, Wyoming, only because she has no other options. Here, she was always the shy, stuttering girl, invisible to everyone.

Except Zac Mackay. The very reason she left in the first place.

Zac’s years in Special Forces taught him survival skills, and he’s created a company—Linear Tactical—to teach those skills to others, so they never have to live in fear.

Then why is Annie, the last person he’d ever want to hurt, afraid of him?

Zac’s determined to wipe the fear from the eyes of the woman who has never been far from his mind. And fix the mistakes— hismistakes—that put that look there in the first place.

But a predator has set his sights on Annie. And now survival skills will become much more than lessons… 

I BOUGHT THIS BOOK THROUGH:

AMAZON LINK

5 STARS

Wonderful from start to finish!  A new favorite for me.  The people, the tense danger, the enemy waiting to strike again (time and time again). 

Starting out with Annie, she quickly brought out every feeling of wanting to protect her from all the hurts she suffered.  Invisible Annie was how she was seen or rather NOT seen for so long.  All the pain that had caused her to stutter which isn't something you see often in a book.  But I liked how smart she was and how with help she'd managed to get that stutter under control. Being a Brilliant doctor was also something that had achieved. So high five to Annie on that.

I liked that there was a history with Zac, although there was a lot of pain inflicted there too.  Most of it Zac didn't remember.  But prior to that pain, I did enjoy the part of the story where Zac's wife Becky and Annie were such good friends.  

That enemy that was stalking women?  I was so sure I knew who that was and kept yelling in my head, "look around, it's___".   Surprise, Surprise.  I was SO wrong.  Major twist waiting at the end of the book for a spectacular ending.  Bravo author, you got me with that one!  And I loved that you did!

BOOK REVIEW- Hunted in Hope Springs by D.J. Hicks

   

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https://www.amazon.com/review/create-review/ref=cm_cr_othr_d_wr_but_top?ie=UTF8&channel=glance-detail&asin=B0BPCMF1QN

 

 

A series of murders. An undercover operation in a small town. This is not what I had planned to regain my credibility.

But I didn’t have much choice in the matter.

A new start with a small FBI profiling unit has turned into everything I had told my boyfriend I would avoid: dangers, crazy missions, and psychotic killers.

What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him. At least for now.

Hope Springs is a small town with a bad attitude and a high death rate. Throw in a rotund, suspicious sheriff, a gun-toting doctor, and I have to wonder if the odds aren’t stacked against me?

When Deputy Matthew appears on my radar with his wide smile, and dead fiancé, my investigation suddenly takes a terrifying turn.

The killer hunting Hope Springs’ residents is closer to me than I’d feared, and I may not make it out of this alive.

 

Tense opener is how this story started..right out of the gate. And it keeps the tensions throughout the story.  I liked that and found myself liking Willow quite a bit and fairly soon.  She really gets points for being tenacious when it comes to solving crimes.  Even when she is coming against resistance.  After hitting Hope Springs talk about resistance and down right hostility against outsiders. Not just unwelcoming but straight-up hostility. The people in the town were something else.  Including that nasty Sheriff. 

I enjoyed the twists, turns and totally unexpected, dangerous reveal of the murderer.  That murderer also told a secret that turned out to be of direct interest to Willow.  

I liked how the story ended, although there was one thread not completed..yet.  But after knowing Willow, that part she will finish. 

I was given a copy of this book and these are my honest thoughts about it.

BOOK REVIEW- Merried: An Unstoppable Christmas (The Unstoppables: Team One #2) by Heather Slade

   

She’s a former CIA agent with a badass reputation.
He’s a wealthy FBI agent with a knack for taking down serial killers.
When the holidays come, their chemistry is UNSTOPPABLE.

CASPER

It’s hard to shake the pain. Losing my husband destroyed me, and now, I’m still picking up the pieces and trying to move on. Helping the Invicibles keeps me active—and sane. Let’s be honest, I have to take one day at a time. But now, they want me to come to their holiday party and frolic in the festivities of the season. And that’s the last thing I want—especially since for the first time in ages, I’m starting to crave someone else—someone who isn’t my husband.

SPIDER

With a serial killer caught and behind bars, it seems like the perfect time to celebrate the holidays. And teaming up with the determined and fiery Casper has me longing for more this season. Taking her to the Invincibles’ party seems like just thing she needs. But when it all blows up and she disappears, I’ll do anything to make this the start of a very MERRY time.

Bought at:

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3.5 STARS

 Although I liked both Casper and Spider and all of the emotion in the story, it just didn't do it for me. Honestly, I just expected more. 
The story was a slow starter, filled with a lot of people, which kept me a bit off balance.  The story was also without a lot of action which I had been expecting.  I know it was about Christmas but I guess I was expecting more danger drama.  Maybe that's just me.  However I will give it points for the parts I did like. 

BOOK REVIEW- Marked for death by Anna Blakely

  re

 

For Dr. Maggie Cartwright, spending the day surrounded by death isn't just normal...it's her calling. As a forensic pathologist, it's her job to find justice for victims who are unable to speak for themselves. So when the sexy FBI agent she worked with a few months ago asks her to consult on a particularly disturbing case in Colorado, she can't bring herself to say no.


FBI Special Agent Noah Killion has come face-to-face with evil before, but nothing like the killer he's up against now. With a monster terrorizing his city, he and his team will use every resource they have at their disposal to stop him. Including the beautiful, brilliant doctor he can't seem to forget.


Working together again, the chemistry between Maggie and Noah becomes impossible to deny. While on the hunt for a killer, they find themselves falling hard and fast for one another. And when the monster in their sights becomes fixated on Maggie, Noah vows to keep the woman he's falling in love with safe...or die trying.

Marked for Death is the first book in Ms. Blakely's exciting new romantic suspense series. As with all of Blakely's books, readers should expect lots of heart racing, edge-of-your-seat suspense, hot, romantic scenes, and an HEA for every couple. This series will not contain cliffhangers.  

 

AMAZON LINK 

5 STARS

 

It hit all the right notes for a really good story for me.   It had really good main characters. With some equally interesting secondary people, like Wade and Jax (even though Jax plays a more minor role).  

But back to Maggie and Noah who are each both exceptional at their jobs.  It took almost no time at all to be drawn into this story and the both of them.  Their careful moving around each other when it came to their attraction was sweet.  There was a careful shyness about it that was fun to watch and they had a serial killer to stop.  So for quite a while they put their focus back on stopping that killer.  Which is going to be a tense, knuckle-biting trip!! 

Oh, and about Maggie and Noah's attraction?  After several near misses of attempts against them, the do finally make some romantic moves together.  

The twists towards the end are a doozie and it comes to a stunning finish.  

There is the promised H.E.A. and I enjoyed the whole book.  It looks like Wade is going to get his own book and I'll be watching for that one too.  

 

I got a free copy of this book without a review being asked for.  And these are my honest opinions about this book.

 

BOOK REVIEW- Of Valor & Vice: (A Revelry’s Tempest Novel) by K.J.Jackson

   

Her life was charmed, until it was not.
Near destitute after the sudden death of her wastrel husband, Lady Pipworth must find a way to support herself and her young nieces until her brother returns home to assume his role as head of the family. Thanks to her three brothers that raised her, Adalia’s one outstanding skill in life is gambling, and with a dower house now at her disposal, plans to fill the coffers—scandal begetting or not—begin to take shape.

A mysterious duke with one goal in mind.
The Duke of Dellon is interested in nothing more than fulfilling the needs of running his ducal estate. As for a wife and an heir—he will get to it, eventually—as long as it fits neatly into his orderly life. But when a long-ago vow rears, landing upon his shoulders, he obligingly sets out to do what is required of him—stop Lady Pipworth from the foolery of operating a gaming house. And, if he should need to, marry the woman.

A vow invoked from the grave leads to a secret that could destroy everything.
Her gaming house a success, the last thing Adalia wants is an arrogant duke poking into her affairs. But when a sudden death threatens the very thing she holds dearest, can she possibly trust the one man that can save her and her nieces?

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3 Stars

I had mixed feelings on this one.  I have read a few stories by this author that I liked but I had trouble with this one.  There were parts that I liked and it was a different kind  of story, especially when it came to the emotionless Toren.  Adalia sure made up with emotions because she was defintely full of them.  She also was not afraid to express them.  
This story didn't pull me in as much as I would have liked BUT it did hold a few surprises towards the end and at least one I never saw coming.  Which I did like.
Everything comes to a good end with also a good Epilogue.  So I kind of liked parts of it, just not all of it.

BOOK REVIEW- Wanted: Vampire's Assistant : (Moonhaven Cove Book 1) by [Dusty Rose, Jessica Martinez]

  

She's scrappy and pure sunshine.
He's a 1,000 year old vampire.
Together they're magic.

Ever had life kick you in the teeth after it shoved you down the stairs?

Yeah, that’s how my day was heading.

And then I saw an ad in the paper that changed my life—Wanted: Vampire’s Assistant. Qualifications must include: loyalty, sturdiness, flexibility, dependability, fearlessness, intelligence, and please no applicants that are prone to temper or fits of terror.

Normally, I’d laugh at the absurd ad, but I emailed the prankster—Draven Leto, instead. People need jobs, Mr. Leto. Prank ads are not appreciated.

I wasn’t expecting to get a reply.

And I certainly wasn’t expecting for the ad to be invisible to everyone else on my floor.

Then a self-proclaimed vampire with a voice that could melt honey called and invited me to interview for the position.

And I accepted.

Like I said, life changing.

Wanted: Vampire’s Assistant is part of my new Moonhaven Cove series. Each book in the series builds off the previous books, but still stands on its own. If you’re looking for clean paranormal romance with swoony kisses, snappy dialogue, funny and heartwarming characters, and plenty of suspense and action, you’ve found the right place. Welcome to Moonhaven Cove.

AMAZON LINK 

5 STAR

 This was a wild, fun read with great, unusual characters in it just like you would expect.  The world building was outrageously awesome and so were the emotions in it too.  
Mia, what's not to like about her?  Not a thing as far as I was concerned.  She might be people challenged with all their chaos and swirling emotions but get her at home with where she was SUPPOSED to be and she became more peaceful and centered. Even if "people" trying to kill her and her boss.  She was also hysterically funny, and I could see why she often made others laugh, especially Draven.  And her substitute curse phrases made me laugh too.
Draven was quite the man of the hour, and  he was beyond interesting.  I kept thinking that he was interested in Mia in more than friendship but that was a good starting point.  I loved watching their process and interactions.  Even more fun was Mia discovering she had "skills".  
I also enjoyed the other people who became friends with Mia.  They just couldn't seem to help liking her.  This was new to her since she'd never really had friends before.
The only thing that bothered me was the introduction of a witch and a familiar since I didn't know that was coming and I might have skipped the book.  I was glad however that the witch part wasn't really spent much time on.  Because other than that what a entertaining story.
Great ending to the story with an equally good Epilogue.

BOOK REVIEW- The Bullet That Missed (#3 of the Thursday Murder Club series) by Richard Osman

   

It is an ordinary Thursday, and things should finally be returning to normal.

Except trouble is never far away where the Thursday Murder Club are concerned. A local news legend is on the hunt for a sensational headline, and soon the gang are hot on the trail of two murders, ten years apart.

To make matters worse, Elizabeth is paid a visit in which she’s presented with a deadly mission: kill or be killed...

While Elizabeth grapples with her conscience (and a gun), the gang and their unlikely new friends—including TV stars, money launderers and ex-KGB colonels—unravel a fresh mystery. But can they catch the culprit and save Elizabeth before the murderer strikes again?

From an upmarket spa to a prison cell complete with espresso machine to a luxury penthouse high in the sky, this third adventure of the Thursday Murder Club is full of the cleverness, intrigue, and irresistible charm that readers have come to expect from Richard Osman’s bestselling series.

AMAZON LINK 

 This book was a slow starter for me. However, I think that was because of having to feel my way through because of not having read anything else in the series.  But I was hopeful..

Sorry to say, I didn't finish the book, so in fairness no way am I leaving a rating on it.  I should  have read the first book in the series, it might have helped. At first I would have had the foundation of the main people in the story.   There were just so many people in the book and it just seemed like more were being added.  I just couldn't keep up.

Add to that the unfamiliar offices for investigations and etc because unbeknownst to me, it's not set in the U.S.A.  Most times I can easily figure those kind of things, but it just made it harder and slower for me.  So, I just had to stop. 

 

(Read through the HOOPLA Library App)

BOOK REVIEW- Defending Honor (Elite Guardians #3) by Lynette Eason, Kelly Underwood

   

She trusts no one… Bodyguard Laila Rabbinowitz is all business. Tough and stoic, she was the perfect Mossad agent…until a terrible betrayal led to her worst nightmare. Being a bodyguard with the Elite Guardians allows her to keep her heart safe-she'll never get involved with a client, never let anyone close enough to betray her again. And she's certainly not going to trust anyone who doesn't earn it. He needs protection… Billionaire Preston Whittaker walked away from his famous family after a terrible event, but he's put that behind him-or so he thinks. When his father and brother are killed in a suspicious boating accident, he must take the helm of the family business and carry on the family legacy. But someone doesn't want him at the helm. They want him dead. She'll have to pretend to be his wife to save his life… Enter the Elite Guardians. Preston is going to need someone by his side 24/7, and the only solution is…a fake marriage. Laila needs to pull off acting as the trophy wife to the country's most eligible bachelor. With the eyes of the paparazzi on them, she'll have to convince everyone that she and Preston are in love. But what will it cost her heart? Preston's reputation as a party playboy precedes him, and Laila doesn't belong in his world filled with parties and money. But is there more to Preston Whittaker that the world doesn't see? Maybe, in time, he's someone Laila could learn to trust. Only problem is, the danger is closer than they both know…and time is running out

AMAZON LINK 

5 STARS

I enjoyed this book a lot.  Both Laila and Preston were really good main characters.  They had believable struggles and I liked that it was a clean story with a Christian thread that is without people feeling like is being stuffed down your throat.

Laila has a really good group of people in the Elite Guardians group.  Preston doesn't have very much support at all when it comes to his family and so called friends. So many selfish, me, me, me people.  I would have liked to see his sister get the boot because wow.  I did forget about Sebastian though and Seth who both definitely ARE in his corner.  

Plenty of action, danger, and yes, some people biting the dust falling like domino's one by one in unpredictable ways.  

The person who I began to suspect part way through the story turned out to be the main force behind all the murder attempts against Preston.  Those attempts began to spread out to those around Preston as well so Laila isn't safe either.  Wife or not his wife, she is seen as a target too. The time isn't right for a romance but that doesn't stop it from developing in a low key way.

I liked how the story ended with hope for the future.  

 

I read this story through HOOPLA Library App.

BOOK REVIEW- Falling For The Ice Queen (Ice Breaker Cold Case # 2) by Cynthia Eden

 

 He’s more than a little rough around the edges…

Memphis Camden isn’t a nice guy. He’s big, dangerous, and has an extremely low tolerance for BS. A former bounty hunter, Memphis now has a deadly new target…a serial killer. Memphis has been tracking the guy for months, and he may just have found the way to drag the monster into the light. In order to accomplish his mission, he’s going to need help from an unlikely ally…

She’s elegant, poised, and a beautiful society queen.

Eliza Robinson doesn’t talk about her past. She tried going to the cops—long ago—but they never caught the man responsible for her abduction, and her powerful family made sure to bury every detail about that night. Now, she spends her days dodging the stiff guards her family keeps sending her way. Until someone very unusual steps into her path.

He’s not like the others. He’s fierce, ruggedly sexy, and more than a little uncivilized…

At first, Eliza thinks that Memphis is a new bodyguard. The attraction she feels for him is white-hot, stunning in its intensity, and it completely disrupts her carefully ordered life. But Memphis isn’t suddenly close to her because he’s on her parents’ payroll.

Memphis belongs to a group of cold case solvers called the Ice Breakers, and for his latest mission? He’s hunting the man who once turned Eliza’s world into a nightmare. Memphis wants her help because she is the only one who ever escaped from the monster. What Memphis doesn’t know…is that the monster has been stalking Eliza ever since she fled from him…

They are complete opposites.

The only rules that Memphis follows are the ones that he makes. He hits life full-force, with no apologies. Eliza is reserved, careful in all that she does, and always on her guard. They shouldn’t want each other so badly, but they do. Their attraction won’t be denied, and their sudden, forced proximity just throws them closer to the edge of desire.

Eliza is determined to help Memphis, and she’ll take any risk to end the nightmare that has haunted her. But with every moment that passes, the danger deepens around her, and soon Memphis realizes that closing the latest case isn’t his top priority. Protecting Eliza, making sure that she’s safe—that is his only goal. Because the refined and cautious Eliza may have just stolen his heart…

Author’s Note: Memphis never loses his prey. He’s alpha to his core, fierce and dedicated, and when he falls…oh, but he will fall hard. His latest cold case has taken him into Eliza’s high society world. The fierce attraction he feels for Eliza catches him off-guard, and all too soon, he can’t imagine his life without her in it. But, someone else has eyes on Eliza, too. Someone who has been watching her for a very long time. A cold case is about to ignite, and if they aren’t careful, Memphis and Eliza might just get caught in the blaze.

AMAZON LINK 

 5 STARS

No one messes with Memphis.  Well, not if they know what's good for them.  But it's amazing how many people are slow on the uptake on that.  He's not only large in size but also in determination.  I liked his no BS personality and he was definitely NOT impressed by others wealth or supposed power.  He just mowed over resistance. 

Eliza has been rigidly controlling herself especially in public..nothing to draw attention to herself.  So it was so much fun when Eliza first meet Memphis, she poured a beer over him!!

This woman had strengths that she didn't even realize.  And she's needed it for what she went through and for what she is facing.

There is plenty of well felt emotions written into the story.  As well as more people with an unpleasant agenda against Eliza than I realized. Until things started getting peeling back and it was amazing how many and what their reasons were for it.  Things would have been cleared up more and sooner if her father and brother hadn't been so busy "protecting" Eliza.   Yes, there will be hot sex, but there will be love developing too. 

Incredible, incredible dangers and betrayals ramp up  until all is exposed with surprise after surprise.

 Eliza and Memphis do get their H.E.A. so yay!

BOOK REVIEW- . The Syndicate Spy (A Juliet Arroway Novel) by Brittany Butler

   

Mystery & Thrillers | Romance | Women's Fiction

Description

Sacrifices must be made; battles will be lost. It is always this way in a quest for change.”

The future: Earth’s oil reserves are depleted. Nations race against terrorists for control over alternative energy sources, and the Syndicate—a conglomerate of allied intelligence agencies—must put an end to the global energy war. Syndicate spy Juliet Arroway and her best friend, Mariam, a Saudi princess, are tasked to hunt down energy terrorists. When the Syndicate begins to suspect that Mariam’s family is somehow involved, tensions build and the carnage multiplies. Juliet’s long-time boyfriend, Jean-Marc, is targeted and killed. In her quest to seek revenge and end the war, Juliet is paired with Graham—a dashing, yet arrogant FBI agent with whom she ultimately falls madly in love—to infiltrate Mariam’s family to prevent further attacks. When peace means a stunning betrayal, Juliet must decide if her mission is worth risking her own life as well as the lives of those she loves.

AMAZON LINK 

5 STARS

Outstanding world building.   Intense drama with a lot of depth to it.  When it first started, I wasn't even sure whether or not I was going to like it.  Truth to be told, it grew on me.  But it did take a while, maybe because of all of the political information.  Yes, I know it was an important part of foundation in the story.  But it really kicked in for me when it got deeper into the people in the story.  We knew that Juliet's boyfriend, Jean-Marc was going to be killed but the author kept things edge of the seat.  I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop when it came to how that was going to happen.

I liked how Graham called Juliet "muharib" which meant warrior and that after a while it became an endearment.  I also enjoyed the sparks that flew off of them when they first met and the following mistrust sparks that continued.  It was Warrior meeting Warrior.

What a great main character Juliet turned out to be.  Couldn't help rooting for her.  And her best friend and co-worker spy Mariam was one tough, smart addition to the story.

Hang on to your seat belt because there will be some amazing surprises before the story ends.  Well done. 

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

(Though NETGALLEY)

BOOK REVIEW- Bad King (Book #1 of Bad Business) by M. Malone

  

Who Wants to Marry a Billionaire?
Resumes accepted here.
Must be completely inappropriate.


My parents just put a gold digger's target on my back.

They want me married and they're willing to play hardball by threatening the company I've put my blood, sweat and tears into.

But I'm a Kingsley. And no one knows how to play the game like I do.

If all they want is a wedding, I’ll find the fiancée of their nightmares. Too loud, too blonde and ready for a good time. Let the games begin.…

AMAZON LINK

3 STARS

For me, this book was just okay.  I did like Olivia, who seemed to have more personality especially when compared to the more stereotyped King.  The story was somewhat predictable with a fair amount of quick sex.  

On the positive side:  But it didn't end on a cliffhanger and does make it to a H.E.A.  

Book Humor- Regretting Nothing

 

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BOOK REVIEW- Over the Flames (Hunting Grounds # 1) by Nichole Severn

   

Losing a child destroyed their marriage, but a killer will ensure their future ends in flames.

A journalist who always gets her story.
An FBI agent who’ll die to keep her safe.
Losing a child destroyed their marriage, but a killer will ensure their future ends in flames.

When Arden Olsen discovers her mentor’s smoldering remains, she’s determined to expose the killer. Her work is the only way to process the grief tearing her apart. But the FBI’s lead case agent will do whatever it takes to keep her from getting involved.

Violent Crimes Agent Lawson Mitchell has been burned before—by the media and by Arden. She’s not going to let the story go, so as the killer escalates, keeping his ex-wife close is the only way to keep her safe. Even at the risk of losing his heart all over again.
As one of the most vicious serial offenders closes in, Lawson and Arden must confront the guilt and resentment they’ve harbored for one another and work together. Before there’s nothing left.

AMAZON LINK 

4 STARS

Emotional, intense and downright scary when it comes to the true serial killer is how I would describe this story.  Add to that really good while flawed main characters.  Each of them both dealing with the grief over their daughter's death in totally different ways.  Ways that  caused them the additional grief of not being there for each other.  Later in the story, it felt like Arden nailed it when explaining to Lawson that he had not recognized that she has  been grieving because she dealt with it differently than he did.  Add to the problems of them working together by his mistrust of all journalists and him lumping her in that mistrust.  Yep, that's going to cause some problems.

You want twists, turns and dangers? You'll get it in this book, especially as it moves towards the explosive ending.   

 

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