BOOK REVIEW- Cold In The Shadows (Cold Justice series#5) by Toni Anderson

 

Working in the shadows, CIA Officer Patrick Killion needs to figure out if feisty frog biologist, Audrey Lockhart, is a deadly assassin or an innocent scapegoat. And the only way to do that is to gain her trust.

Attacked and left for dead, Audrey is forced to put her trust in an enigmatic stranger who saves her from certain death. Then Audrey discovers her rescue was actually an abduction, and the man she thought was her savior is her captor.

Killion is falling hard and fast for his target and suddenly he has his hands full, dealing with a smart, beautiful woman who is furious at his deception. Betrayal is everywhere and Killion doesn't know who to trust. The organization he works for? Or the woman he's falling in love with?

 AMAZON LINK

5 STARS

Outstanding !  This was a very full, edge of my seat story !!  Tense, unpredictable and pulled me in really quickly.  

Audrey was so over her head with no clue to what was going on.  Why was she the target? Who wanted her dead?  Who is Killion and can he be trusted?  That's just the beginning of the mysteries that surround her.  Although Killion was sure she was guilty of murder and more, he saved her life more than once. There is especially one time when he wasn't sure she was going to live at all after being stabbed.  

 Killion is quite the chameleon, charming but also deadly when it came to interrogations. But there is also a different side of Killion that shows up from time to time.  He's more than just an operative but Audrey wasn't always sure which Killion was going to show up.  That doesn't stop them from being attracted to each other making for a dangerous romance of sorts.  They were good together when they allowed themselves to be.  I enjoyed that part, especially when Audrey gave feisty right back to Killion when he messed with her.

The multiple dangers keep things hopping with very little letup of the tension.  Many people are used by the enemies and not all of them come out of it alive.  But Killion also had some help from some people you wouldn't expect, some of them with international ties.  

Great ending after an explosive confrontation.  An unusual H.E.A. but it's headed that way.

 

I read this book through HOOPLA and then found I had a copy of it through Amazon.

BOOK REVIEW- Bad Luck Vampire An Argeneau Novel by Lynsay Sands

  

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

 Description

New York Times bestselling author Lynsay Sands returns in this latest chapter of the Argeneau series with an immortal who is having a bit of bad luck while trying to woo his life mate…

Alasdair MacKenzie has never once considered himself unlucky in all the centuries he’s been an immortal rogue enforcer. Not until he meets Sophie. Finding the beautiful, smart, and funny woman who is his life mate is great luck, actually. But meeting her at a wedding full of Argeneaus, not to mention his own busybody uncles determined to “help him claim his woman,” is bad luck. And the fact that Sophie is someone else’s date? Well that’s just the next level of unlucky.

From the way her gaze travels over his body like a caress to the electric zing whenever they innocently touch…he wants her for all eternity! He’ll keep his hands off Sophie until her date is over. After that all bets are off and he’ll pull out all the stops to win her. Great plan—until he gets hit by a car. And then he’s poisoned. Is his luck that bad, or is someone out to stop this immortal from claiming Sophie as his life mate? 

AMAZON LINK 

4 STARS

 It was an unusual way that Sophie met Tybo in the opening of the story.  It was also funny too ! But Tybo would also end up being the one that leads her to meeting Alasdair.  Tybo was a bit disappointed about that, he had hoped she might be his life-mate.

Turns out Alasdair is a man of few words which it makes it harder for him to woo Sophie when he decides to. His identical twin brother Colle was the charmer but he's willing to help Alasdair win his life-mate.  But so are Alasdair's wild Scot uncles willing to help although their well meant help didn't always work out well.  Still they were a hoot.  Good thing that Sophie loves all things Scottish.  And the accent that Alasdair had really got Sophie hot.  Well along with some other things too.  When the two of them touched, clothes fell off..if you get my meaning.

Plenty of action when it comes to those around Sophie, being in danger.  I had my thoughts about the who and why of it and I was SO wrong.  A startling reveal happens at the end along with a shocking ending for the person behind it all. 

 

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

-NEGALLEY- 

+BOUGHT/ BOOK REVIEW- What Jesus Likes to Do Through You Paperback – January 1, 1992 by Roberts Liardon

 

   

AMAZON LINK

So often we know all ABOUT Jesus because we have heard sermons and teachings about him for years in church.  But we do not know in a personal way what He likes to do. We need to know what Jesus likes to do and that He wants to be set free IN us to do those things.  Like the author said, "we need to first receive a deep revelation of what He cared about and what He likes to do."  And if we look at our Bibles, it often points out to those very things.  

The first thing that Jesus liked to do was reach out to lost souls. 

Healing is something Jesus likes to do.  He likes to get out where people are hurting, where they really need help, and demonstrate His power to change their lives.

It is Jesus nature to cast out devils and love it ! My copy of this book was published in 1992 but it was a clear picture of what is going on in our current times.  Mental illness has exploded just as the Lord had revealed it would, as the problem of the 90's to Roberts.     Let Jesus be free  to do what He likes through you and He will heal the hurts and cast out demons.

A great reminder was added... Command Change !! 

 You have the right, in Jesus Name to command everything in violation of His Word to move from your life.

 He also tackled tough problems.  He also likes to teach, preach, pray and prophesy. Don't forget that He likes to bless people !!

It ends with a powerful punch at the end.  God pointed out that when people first accepted Him, and He went inside them as the Spirit dwelt in them it was good. BUT now God wanted out, which sounds stunning at first glance.  But the point was that His people didn't seem to know how to let Him out for ministry. Like when God see someone who is sick and He wants to reach out His hand and heal them but they (the believer) withdraws his hand.  A powerful appeal follows to the end.  

 

 Prayer Included:  

Heavenly Father, I thank you for sending your Son, Jesus to the earth and for allowing Him to dwell in my life.  

Today I repent of any fear , lack of knowledge, of any obstacle I have put up that has bound Jesus up in my life.  Today, Lord, it is my desire to cry out, "Jesus be free in me."

I humbly ask Your precious Holy Spirit to anoint my life right now with a new freedom, a holy boldness, a divine anointing to go forth as a spiritual warrior You can use for Your glory.  Lord, I thank you so much for the revelations contained in this book and I ask that You make them living realities in my life.  

I ask these things in the powerful Name of Jesus, Amen. 

BOOK REVIEW- TAKEN (Cold Gounds) by Nichole Severn

     

She knows evil inside and out.

When women start going missing in the lakeside hometown she left behind long ago, FBI agent Brie McKinney is forced to return. A necklace discovered at the primary crime scene is an exact replica to the one she wears. It ties back to her own abduction twenty years ago. And to the night her sister disappeared. As another body washes onto shore, Brie once again finds herself in the killer’s crosshairs. Only this time, she’s not a child. And she’s not alone.

Roman Bradford has trained to be in the center of the action, to make the hard calls without emotion, but that discipline fails when the killer turns his attention to his compelling FBI partner. Unwilling to lose Brie, especially when the bond they share slides into heated desire, Roman finds himself breaking all the rules he swore to uphold to protect her. And risking his career in the process.

As Brie and Roman fight frenzied attraction it becomes clear that to unravel a web of clues a killer has left behind, she must face a horrifying truth about the night her sister disappeared—before it’s too late.

AMAZON LINK 

5 STARS

Intense, fast moving, TOTALLY unpredictable is what this story is.  And if you think you can figure it out?  Think again.  That was something that really kept me on my toes and on the edge of my seat.  And I loved that !
Brie and Roman are both shown to have quite a bit of depth to them, which I liked.  They both had been hurt with scars, some that were visible but also ones that go much deeper than just that.  I enjoyed them both and why not?  They were people that had no quit in them.  They are also deeply attracted to each other even with the risks to their jobs.

That's all I'm going to say about this book because I don't want to give too much away.  I want the next reader to be as surprised at each turn like I was.  

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

+BOUGHT/BOOK REVIEW- Keys to Good Government by David Barton

   

This is the booklet that I have but I also see that Amazon has a copy with the picture below:

   

AMAZON LINK  

This was an excellent reminder of what good government was supposed to be. Also that Christian people ARE supposed to be involved in politics versus the claim that they are to separate themselves from it. So much of our history of our founding fathers is included in this book which is rarely even talked about or even taught any more. God was the true founder of America and the Bible was the cornerstone of it.
I also liked the Endnotes that were included to show the different places that information was taken from. It shows that this is no pie-in the sky thoughts but that people can also check it out.
I bought mine through Kenneth Copeland Ministries some years back but I also see that Amazon also has it. That's why I included not only the link but the newer cover picture. 

+BOUGHT/ BOOK REVIEW- Soaring with Eagles: Principles of Success by Bill Newman

  

Eagles are magnificent creatures.

Since ancient times, many have used the eagle as their symbol, and for good reason, as this exciting, powerful book from Bill Newman will show.

These principles of success are vital to us all.

Allow the monarch of the skies, the eagle, to teach you how your life can count.

Come on...it's time to Fly!

 

CAN BE BOUGHT @ 

AMAZON LINK 

4 STARS

 

An encouraging, insightful book good for business but also really for life in general.  Great information on eagles which have always fascinated me.  It is clearly written making it easy to read. The section on watching out for distractions was especially helpful.

 An interesting sentence stood out about eagles.  They will struggle and preserver against all odds. If a nest is blown down- as they constantly are -the eagle will rebuild and rebuild and rebuild again if necessary.  What a good illustration of that point. 

 The finishing thought is : You're an eagle-act like an eagle.

******************************************************

Visualize the New You.  Vividly imagine yourself as already having reached your goals.

 

+BOUGHT/ BOOK REVIEW- Shepherd’s Rod: Sonship Volume XXIII 2018 by Bobby Conner

     

An interactive book that deals with SONSHIP . In fact on the cover, it also says"It's time for the Ring & Robe." You are Heir to the Kingdom of God". 

 There is plenty included in this book that covers some of the deeper things not usually mentioned in other places.  I was impressed with something said about we need to "Let your heart cry out to see God's power."  Psalm 90:16-17 (AMP) was the scripture reference used here. While some might think this is not a right approach, the motivation was in one way that people need to see the power of God. That miracles draw people to hear and respond to the gospel.  

It was interesting that he said that in no way was he putting down the truth of servant-hood but stated that there is also so much more. 

I had to go slower when it came to reading this because there was so  much for me to chew and think on.  It also not only has plenty of scripture but also includes a few prayers that can be prayed.  I think this is a book that you have to study and decide for yourself. However, the last chapter contains warnings of threats that he had been shown in 2018 and we are seeing it happen big time right now.

I did like the balance of his words at the end that no real wisdom and common sense comes without Holy Spirit guidance. 

 

+BOUGHT/BOOK REVIEW- I Talk Back to the devil by A.W. Tozer (edited by Gerald B. Smith)

    

These essays will strengthen the faith of every Christian. In his usual pithy style, Tozer challenges the believer to stop running from the devil and instead, boldy enter "lion country.These essays will strengthen the faith of every Christian. In his usual pithy style, Tozer challenges the believer to stop running from the devil and instead, boldy enter "lion country.

4 STARS

Tozer starts out by saying a lot of what he will share will ruffle some feathers but he is determined to speak truth.  And I'm sure it did upset some people but he is clear in what he says.

Look Beyond Modern Terms-  this section is so enlightening even though it is short.  Enlightening because it's even more true in our more current times. Why do I say that?  Because so much has been watered down and mixed up with the opinions of men.  Relying on their human "wisdom" versus digging deeper into the truth. Taking shortcuts instead of getting to know God for themselves.   

It is also filled with other nuggets that are helpful.  One of my favorites is when Tozer addresses why do we put up with stuff from the devil?  In particular with it comes to dealing with heaviness and oppression that comes against Christians.  This is how he dealt with it himself and its helpful now: 

Now Lord,, I have had enough of this- I refuse to take any more of this heaviness and oppression! This does not come from God- this comes from my enemy the devil! Lord,in Jesus Name I will not take this any longer- through Jesus Christ I am Victor.

 

BOOK REVIEW- Montana Rain by Josie Jade

   

Psychiatrist Rayne Westerfield has found purpose in helping patients, especially those with PTSD, heal at the Resting Warrior Ranch. For her, there’s no greater calling than equipping people to fight the worst of their demons.  

But she’s never allowed anyone to help her fight her own.  

She’s kept her distance. Kept herself buttoned up tight. Even the people in the small Montana town she’s known for years—the ones she calls friends—don’t know who she really is, and the fears she hides.  

And that’s okay.  

But it’s not okay to Cole Phillips.  

The FBI agent’s first interaction with the Resting Warrior Ranch a few months ago wasn’t under the best of circumstances, but he’s determined to make up for that now.   Where everyone else sees ice in Rayne, he sees fire. And he’s not going to let her fears keep him at a distance.  

Especially not when Rayne witnesses something she shouldn’t and a killer comes after her. Cole will battle the criminal determined to silence her, and the fears she’s buried so deep.  

The healer has fought for everyone else. Now this warrior will fight for her.

 AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

Cole and Rayne really hit some major sparks off each other.   And that's just the verbal part at the start.  Rayne would attack and then retreat, anything to keep Cole at a distance.  Cole liked the challenge, to wind her up and watch the fire in her.  He also wanted a lot more than just being at a distance.  Rayne was scared of how Cole made her feel.  Not that she thought he would hurt her physically.  But that her emotions would break free from the protective wall she'd made to protect herself. That push-pull between them makes for some interesting times. Now add in the very real danger that Rayne is in.  There's so many ways this could go wrong ! And you know  they will !

It's going to take a while but with the help of their

Resting Warrior Ranch family they do get their H.E.A. 

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

*****HOOPLA/THE INNOCENT (the Will Robie series #1) by David Baldacci

   

America's best hitman was hired to kill--but when a D.C. government operation goes horribly wrong, he must rescue a teenage runaway and investigate her parents' murders in this #1 New York Times bestselling thriller.

It begins with a hit gone wrong. Robie is dispatched to eliminate a target unusually close to home in Washington, D.C. But something about this mission doesn't seem Which species is a type of grouse that lives in North American grasslands?right to Robie, and he does the unthinkable. He refuses to pull the trigger. Now, Robie becomes a target himself and is on the run.

Fleeing the scene, Robie crosses paths with a wayward teenage girl, a fourteen-year-old runaway from a foster home. But she isn't an ordinary runaway--her parents were murdered, and her own life is in danger. Against all of his professional habits, Robie rescues her and finds he can't walk away. He needs to help her. Even worse, the more Robie learns about the girl, the more he's convinced she is at the center of a vast cover-up, one that may explain her parents' deaths and stretch to unimaginable levels of power.

Now, Robie may have to step out of the shadows in order to save this girl's life...and perhaps his own.

AMAZON LINK 

5++ STARS

Phenomenal !! And here are the Synonyms for PHENOMENAL: extraordinary, exceptional, unusual, unique, outstanding, remarkable, rare.  And this story hits all of those definitions for me.  I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it kept me on my toes.  Starting with Robie and then including the tag along teen Julie.  Julie was pretty street smart along with being off the charts in intelligence and mouth at times. 

It didn't take long for them to pull me into the story and care what happens to them. A few more people along the way do the same.  Vance is F.B.I. and she also gets pulled along into the drama. Even as she shakes her head at some of the things going on, she keeps trying to find the truth as well as trying to stay alive. 

The story is intense, with more surprises than you can imagine amongst some of the best world-building that included sniper info, security measures and weaponry.  There are some surprises in store on the personal level for some of the main characters. The ending left me satisfied but with the hope that there will be more of the Will Robie stories.

I read this book through the HOOPLA Library App

+May 1, 2023- BOUGHT/ BOOK REVIEW- HOT SEAL (HOT SEAL Team): A Fake Relationship, Military Protector Romantic Suspense by Lynn Raye Harris

Four and a half years since they’d called it quits and she still had the ability to make him angry. And all she’d done was walk into the room.

An enemies to lovers, ex-spouses forced to work together, second chance, Navy SEAL romance from New York Times Bestselling Author Lynn Raye Harris.

When a terrorist steals a drug submarine, Navy SEAL Dane "Viking" Erikson finds himself thrust into a mission with an unexpected partner. His ex-wife, Ivy McGill. Dane would rather be staked to an ant hill naked than work with Ivy, but refusing a direct order from his new commanding officer isn’t healthy for his career.

DEA Agent Ivy's on a mission of her own to put a ruthless drug dealer out of business for good before he causes another little girl to experience the heartache she once did. If she has to work with the man who shattered her belief in love to get the job done, so be it. She’ll survive being forced to work with the sexy SEAL because there’s no way she’ll fall for his swagger again.

But infiltrating an enemy operation means going undercover together. Faking a relationship. Sharing a room. Shouldn’t be a problem since they hate each other, right? They’ll do the job and go back to forgetting the other exists.

Except working together forces them to admit something neither of them thought possible. They aren’t done yet. They might never be done. But if they’re going to figure it out, they need to survive the mission. Then maybe they’ll get a second chance to make things right.

    BOUGHT @

AMAZON LINK

BOOK REVIEW- The Last Enemy:( Lonesome Lawmen # 1) by Pauline Baird Jones

   

Step into a thrilling chase with "The Last Enemy," the first installment in the gripping Lonesome Lawmen series by renowned author Pauline Baird Jones. This fast-paced romantic suspense novel keeps you on the edge of your seat, intertwining the fear of a ruthless killer with an unexpected love story. 

In the heart of Denver, Dani Gwynne emerges as a crucial witness, holding the power to confine a brutal murderer. Following her son's haunting death, surviving to testify is her only goal, until her safehouse gets breached. Thrust into Denver's bustling streets, Dani embarks on a desperate survival journey...

Deputy US Marshal Matthew Kirby, the sole barrier between an innocent woman and her relentless pursuer, faces a unique challenge. Locating Dani amidst Denver's vast expanse was supposed to be the most arduous part of his task, but earning her trust adds a fresh layer of complexity. As unexpected feelings bloom, both face unprecedented danger...

"The Last Enemy" is a suspenseful mystery infused with romance, renowned for its fast-paced action, compelling relationships, and engaging dialogue. Perfect for fans of mystery novels with a touch of romance, and those who appreciate well-crafted dialogue and plot twists.

 

5 STARS

I've read a quite a few stories with a person being hunted after going into witness protection.  But I'm happy to say that this one was way beyond what I was expecting.   And Wow, just Wow..what a story this was.  You definitely get your money's worth when it comes to great main characters and a fully packed, unpredictable story. 

Dani, Dani, Dani just loved this so underestimated romance writer.  She had grit, humor and has gone through some seriously tough times.  But she sure has a lot more hell to go through before it's over.  It's so well shown and emotion filled as well and not just her emotions.  I liked that it also wasn't mushy. 

Matt is so out of his league when it comes to trying to understand Dani and doesn't even know it for quite a while.  I had to smile at his female teammate, Alice.  Because yes, she was skilled at her job.  She's also the only one on the team who even had a good idea of how this woman thought and how to approach her.  Poor Matt, Dani really ran him through the mill, time and again she had him and his team chasing their tails.  In pretty clever ways too.

Even the hit-man who relished his job was written so well in all his twisted ways.  Dani called him Dark Lord.  Matt identifies him as Jonathan Hayes. Spooks is another name that comes up too.

 I just have to say that I enjoyed the author's writing style so much.  One example was when Dani was asked if anybody was waiting back (home) for her.  She said a few friends, my next book, a new breed of mosquitos.  One last one. He was a killer and she was only a pissed off romance writer but he was about to find out that when a romance writer starts plotting, well, more people take notice than listen to E.F. Hutton.  Get my point about the writing? Made me smile for sure. 

This story kept me on the edge of my seat all the way through.  I enjoyed the romance element that was there against all odds.  The ending was to my way of thinking perfect in all it's ways.

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

-Booksprout-

BOOK REVIEW- Wildflower Falls (A Riverbend Romance # 4) by Denise Hunter

   

Christian , Romance 

 

Description

He’s here to train her horses, and then he’s moving on. She’s keeping her true identity a secret. But their spark complicates both of their plans.

When her mother’s death leaves Charlotte Simpson bereft, she hopes the Robinson clan will accept her as one of their own and help fill the void. But a startling discovery dashes her hopes and leaves her wondering if she will ever know the father she’s always longed for.

Horse trainer Gunner Dawson has experienced profound loss and intends to avoid it. So he lives on the move without forming close bonds or putting down roots. When Charlotte hires him to work with her horses and help expand her ranch, he commits to staying for a few months. But he doesn’t count on getting caught up in Charlotte’s search for her biological father. Or on falling in love—with Riverbend Gap or with Charlotte. This time, he’s not sure if he’ll be able to move on—or if he even wants to.

AMAZON LINK 

 4 STARS

I had to smile at the opening pages as Charlotte gets "busted" doing something embarrassing ! And not just once but twice.  Both Charlotte and Gunner make for good main characters who had a depth to them. There was also good world-building in the story.  Which I have to give the author credit for. 

What a brat Emerson, Charlotte's sister is.  Selfish to the bone.  Although I get that her heart really isn't in the ranch and she feels threatened by Charlotte's search for her birth father. 

I have to say that although I liked this book, I just can't say that it's a favorite.  It did have a good community feel to it though, was a clean read, and the ending was good.  Which makes it harder to rate.  So I'll leave my thoughts right there.

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

-NETGALLEY-

 

AUG-FIRST READ- BOOK REVIEW- Morning in This Broken World: A Novel by Katrina Kittle

  

Grieving but feisty widow Vivian Laurent is at a late-in-life crossroads. The man she loved is gone. Their only daughter is estranged and missing. And the assisted-living facility where her husband died is going into quarantine. Living in lockdown with only heartache and memories is something Vivian can’t bear. Then comes a saving grace.

Luna, a compassionate nursing assistant and newly separated mother, is facing eviction. Vivian has a plan that could turn their lives around: return to her old home and invite Luna and her two children to move in with her. With the exuberant eleven-year-old Wren in her hot-pink motorized wheelchair and Wren’s troubled older brother, Cooper, the new housemates make for an unlikely pandemic pack, weathering the coming storm together.

Now it’s time to heal old wounds, make peace with the past, find hope and joy, and discover that the strongest bonds can get anyone through the worst of times.

AMAZON LINK 

4 STARS

What a well written book this was. So well detailed of a time most of us would prefer to forget I'm sure.  Although its fiction, it captures so much of the restrictions that we faced and it also captures how personal that was and the fear and desperation.  Also makes for a history of sorts for people who didn't have to deal with loved ones dying alone, or being separated from each other.  Even afraid to hug each other.   Having said that, it's the people that had me involved in the story . Vivian, Wren, Luna, Cooper each get to share their view of events in each chapter and prepare yourself for some emotional times. 

There is one statement in particular that had me highlighting the book.  It's when Cooper said that, this one person (Vivian) had changed him, changed his whole family.  What a true statement and it's a journey to find out what that meant.  I'm going to leave it at that.  

I read this book through the Amazon First Read selection.  

BOOK REVIEW- Liar! ((A Lost and Found # 3)by Fern Michaels

   

 General Fiction (Adult) 

Description

Even though Luna and her brother Cullen seem like complete opposites, they’re identical in two ways: they’ll never let injustice stand and they always have each other’s back... Beloved storyteller Fern Michaels blends mystery, drama, and a touch of romance for the third in her #1 bestselling Lost & Found series, as the siblings set out to unravel a cold case connected to a mysterious armoire!

Luna Bodman always looks forward to a new shipment of furniture at the restoration shop. Her brother, Cullen, has a knack for finding discarded pieces with an intriguing history, and Luna likes to sit with each item to see if she can feel any kind of vibrations. Usually, Cullen does his thing while Luna does hers, but the arrival of an old armoire triggers a reaction in Luna that’s impossible to ignore.

From the moment Luna wiggles inside the armoire and closes her eyes, she feels an overpowering and disturbing sensation. Emerging, she asks for a flashlight and discovers words scraped into the wood: “Help me!” Hoping to uncover the piece’s secrets, Luna contacts her good friend, U.S. Marshall Christopher Gaines, and the group sets out to trace the armoire’s origins. The journey takes them to a military school in New England, and a mysterious, long-ago ransom case. The kidnappers were never found, but decades later, the answers may finally be within reach . . . 

 

AMAZON LINK 

3.5 STARS

 

For me, it felt as though it got off to a slow start.  Even after having said that, there was good world-building and it did lay a good foundation.  However, things got better going into Part 2.  

I liked the interactions between Luna and Cullen and they often made me smile.  She was a bit of an odd bird as the story suggests but she is also well liked by her circle.  She is bighearted and totally focused when some mystery pulls at her.  She can senses things and reads people well.  Her brother is a very sensible fellow, with a kindness about him,skilled in his craft and totally loves his sister and her quirks.  Their circle of friends are interesting and skilled in different arts and do add to the story.  

 Along with the mystery is the romance between Luna and Chris which was sweet.  Luna often amused Chris and he was totally accepting who Luna was.  Cullen also had an attraction to Luna's friend, Chi-Chi so that is a possible second romance in the works.

 I'll end on these thoughts....although it was well written it wasn't my favorite book by this author.  But I do want to give it points for the parts that I liked and that included the way the mysteries were solved in an unusual way. Followed by a good Epilogue, I just wish it had pulled me in more all the way through.

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

   

-NETGALLEY-

 

BOOK REVIEW- The Bodyguard Next Door(Wilde Ways #15) by Cynthia Eden

 

 

He’s danger and a wicked, hot grin…

Iris Stuart may have a small crush on her neighbor. After all, Pierce Jennings is gorgeous, muscled, and he has a laugh that makes her toes curl. But she is not going down that particular path of temptation with the former Army Ranger and current Wilde agent. Nope. Not happening. They’ll stay in the friend zone because it’s safer that way. Safer for her—and for him. Even if looking into his baby blues makes her heart race.

She’s sunshine, secrets, and a bit of sin…

Pierce’s new neighbor wears paint-splattered jeans, she smells like sin, and he wants to put his hands all over her gorgeous body. Too bad she’s friend-zoned him. Too bad she’s starring in most of his fantasies. Too bad he can’t get her out of his head.

But when danger comes knocking, he’s just the man she needs.

So Iris may have a slightly infamous past—and a family who more than dabs in art forgeries. Iris inherited some of their not-so-slightly shady skills, and unfortunately, now some dangerous people want to use her. When the bad guys don’t take no for an answer and they try to abduct her, it’s her sexy bodyguard next door who comes to her rescue.

Suddenly, she’s got his protection.

The bad guys want her art skills, the Feds in stiff suits want her to work a sting, and Pierce? He just wants her to be his. And what Pierce wants, he will get. Even if he has to take down an undercover art ring and take on the Feds, he will stay by Iris’s side. He’s not just going to be her bodyguard. Before they are done, he plans to be one hell of a lot more to her…

AMAZON LINK

 

Pierce and Iris did it for me in this story.   As far as being interesting people all on their own and together.  It really cracked me up that they were both insanely attracted to each other but she had placed him firmly in the Friend Zone.  He'd never had that happen to him before and he wasn't liking it now.  His friend and co-worker Colt thought it was hilarious.  Iris had valid reasons for that though.  Very dangerous secrets and reasons.  Seems like there is very few people that she can trust, almost everyone wants to use her.   Pierce is unlike anyone she has ever met and he is faithful to the bone.  His friend Eric owner of the security company is all in when it comes to helping him as much as he can.

The twists, turns and surprises just kept coming. Just to let you know there will be some hot scenes between Iris and Pierce.  The language at times is adult especially with Pierce and his love of the Double F exclamations.  Wasn't a fan of that, so I skipped over it.  

I liked how unpredictable it was and all of the actions that followed.  You'll never guess who the head honcho is when it comes to the evil "boss."  

Pierce and Iris do get their H.E.A. worked out and so many answers to their questions.  Especially all of the ones that Iris had.  

 

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

BOOK REVIEW- Decoding a Criminal (#2 of the Behavioral Analysis Unit) by Barb Han

 

 He needs her to solve a crime.

He wants her for so much more.

Dashiell West’s sister is in trouble. Big trouble. And recruiting computer whiz Raina Andress to work with him in cybercrimes at the Behavioral Analysis Unit is his only hope. Raina knows her friend would never embezzle millions. But join forces with the sexy agent from her past and risk her heart again? Dangerous. Tracking a deadly mastermind willing to sacrifice them all for his nefarious plan? Deadly.

From Harlequin Intrigue: Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.

AMAZON LINK 

 5 STARS

This was a good story from start to finish with really good main characters that were complex and were deeply developed.  I really liked both Dash and Raina and wanted to see a good outcome for both of them.  

Dash's sister is brilliant, and she has so many secrets and that's part of what gets her into trouble.  One thing that I understand is that on one hand Dash believes his sister is innocent but there is a doubt that does creep up.  It's the fact that he knows how much she loves expensive things and she lives that kind of lifestyle of the best of everything.  While she can afford it, what if it wasn't enough?  Could she have been pulled to the dark side.  My rub with that was that it felt to me like it was mentioned a bit too much.

There were plenty of other likely candidates for the crime that Layla is in jail for.  It keeps Dash, Raina and the federal team chasing their tail for a while.  Keeping things really active.  Another problem in the middle of the danger is another one.  It had a name, Talia who was Dash's very dangerous ex-girlfriend. The stuff that she got away with was plenty because not only was she obsessed with Dash she was also clever.  Dash had a good way of putting it.  That she was like teflon when it came to trying to make a accusation of her crime stick.

 Things keep speeding along until there is a good wrap up of the story.  Add in a well deserved H.E.A. ending.

I  read this book through the HOOPLA App

BOOK REVIEW- Fire Me Up -A Bad-Boy Workplace Romance (Pine Mountain #5) by Kimberly Kincaid

  

General Fiction (Adult) | Romance 

Description

Ingredients:

One bad-boy chef with a broken arm and a head full of bad memories.

One tough as nails kitchen-phobe who has to run her father’s pub with no notice, no cash, and no room for error.

One reluctant deal that keeps him in the kitchen and her out of hot water.

Mix well and see if these two can stand the heat in the kitchen.

Serve with a side of workplace romance, forced proximity, scorching hot banter, and a sexy, hard-won happily ever after.

Fire Me Up is an updated version of the fourth full-length Pine Mountain novel that was originally published in 2015. This edition has been edited and updated for readability and added steam. 

 AMAZON LINK

4 STARS

 This story started out strong with really good main characters. You could also see that they were both running themselves ragged even though it was for totally different reasons. The differences don't stop there either. Teagan will do just about anything to NOT be cooking in a kitchen.  Adrian lives to be cooking in a kitchen.  They each have deep reasons for those feelings.

I was enjoying the story until for me it began to feel like it was dragging somewhere in the middle. So I liked it for the most part, except for that slow down.

Something that I found interesting when it came to cooking was how Adrian was taught by his grandmother.  To feel the food he was preparing and to listen to it and think outside the box. 

Teagan's love for her father is clear. He is charming but also irresponsible in some ways. Thus putting them all in danger.  He was stubborn like his daughter and had me shaking my head more than once. 

The story picks up and comes to a good ending.

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

The Best Steakhouse Style Baked Potato | The Carefree Kitchen

*** BOOK REVIEW- Roman Will Fall (Wilde Ways# 11) by Cynthia Eden

   

She can’t work with him.

They’ve been partners for barely a week, and Roman Smith (if that even was his real last name!) is already driving Harper Crane absolutely insane. His list of faults is a mile long. Roman is secretive, controlling, and far too sexy. Okay, the sexiness doesn’t matter. It can’t matter. What matters is that Roman never listens to orders, he is far too quiet and intense, and Harper is pretty sure that he is up to some seriously shady side business.

He isn’t supposed to want his new training partner.

Roman has spent his life in the darkness. He is far too well acquainted with evil, and working at Wilde? Well, joining the security and protection firm is supposed to be the first step to turning things around in his world. The first step to becoming someone new. But some habits are hard to shake. And Roman knows that his way too beautiful trainer, Harper, is already suspicious of him. Yeah, so…she is right to be suspicious. Until recently, he has been the bad guy in the story. His list of past deeds could give anyone nightmares. Too bad he only wants to give Harper sweet dreams.

Trouble has followed Roman.

Roman has some unfinished business from his past—in the form of deadly enemies—who have tracked him. And now those enemies have gotten the wrong idea about Harper. (Probably because Roman couldn’t keep his hands off her on a case.) They think she is Roman’s lover. They think they can use her in order to get to him. They are about to make the worst mistake of their lives.

When Roman’s enemies kidnap Harper, he drops the good guy role.

Roman races to rescue her—and they are thrown together in close confines. Intimately close. In order to fight the enemies closing in, Harper and Roman have to trust each other. They have to work together. Stay together. Except the longer they are together, the more Roman realizes just how much he wants the fiery Harper. And soon…Roman can’t imagine his life without her.

Can a reformed bad guy get a chance at happily ever after? Maybe. If things get Wilde enough…

BOUGHT @

AMAZON LINK

5+++  STARS

I can hardly think of how to express how much I loved this unique story. I can say though that it's going into my keeper file so that I can re-read it again.  It's wildly good and I wish I could give it more stars.

First off, Roman really was a dark mystery of a man, which is shown really well.  He usually doesn't have a lot to say and is full of one word answers.  Being bossy, thinking he's in charge,  and being almost wordless irritates Harper to no end.  

Harper is more than a match to deal with Roman, he just didn't realize it at first.  She has skills that have been developed over years of different experiences.  Roman does tend to underestimate her but his desire to protect her totally catches him off balance.  That and not only is she skilled, but when she gives that brilliant smile and the dimples come out?  He's not the only one that feels stunned.  As he watches it happen with other men, unaccustomed jealousy rears it's head.  And early on he realized she never smiled like that at him.

Some of the secrets involve a dicey man named Dex who seems to play a lot of mind games. Others may kowtow to him but Harper's not impressed.  I really smiled when she told him so and toe to toe with him.  He is trying to help Roman but he's not 100% good all the time either.   Antony is another skilled tech person that is pulled in by Dex to "manage" Roman and do a deep dive on threats. He gets his own story as we get a peek at the end of this book.

There's plenty of dangerous secrets as you have been told in the book info and attacks come from different sources.  Keeping me at the edge of my seat. Until the really explosive ending that leads into a really unexpected but good Epilogue.  In my world Epilogue means Follow up into the Future, and I always want to have that.