Outcry Witness (A Nicole Long Crime Novel)BY AIME AUSTIN

    AMAZON LINK

 

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B09LFKVXRY

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Moore Digital Media

Publication date ‏ : ‎ June 22, 2022

Related to: A Nicole Long Crime Novel

THE NICOLE LONG LEGAL SERIES

Crime meets Legal.
A relatable protagonist.
Dark humor.
Where no one is what they seem.
Highly charged HOT topics.
Abuse of power. Manipulation. Corruption. Injustice.
Everyone is out for themselves.
The writing is utterly fabulous.
It's a legal DO NOT MISS!
In this emotionally-charged prequel, packed with a punch, critical topics are addressed, one being sexual assault within the church. The author consistently and effectively addresses timely issues head-on and how they are tackled within the bounds of the law. ONE REVIEWER SPOKE THIS ABOVE

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⚖️ When she didn't give him what he asked for, he took what he wanted…

Nicole Long was enjoying an extended vacation after college graduation until her parents gave her an ultimatum: get a job or move out. At least their proviso came with a lifeline, a lead on a marketing role in a growing megachurch.

Long’s new public relations job is more than she could have ever hoped for until her boss does the unspeakable and the secret behind her pedigree is revealed. Now Nicole must learn to stand up for herself and accept her true identity or else the shame will drown her faster than her growing bourbon habit.

 

MY REVIEW- TITLE: Mixed Feeling- I gave it 5 STARS because it was good until the ending-needed trigger warnings too 

 

Nichole was such a lovely young woman just trying to find her path in life. Her father led her to a job with a man he trusted thinking that she would be safe. Well, she was until that preacher used his high position as an excuse to rape her !!! He even uses Bible scripture to try to vindicate himself.  A lot of people believe that he is INCAPABLE of being the person who raped her but the blinders are off Nichole's eyes. She knows scripture too and she felt for a long that just might be a bit too friendly and then bam, she got raped by him ! She always felt unwanted at home although her daddy stuck up for her from time to time.  Her half-sister HATES her and is always looking to get her in big trouble ! Secrets abound in that household and there is ONE Major one !!!

Add to that- the system just keeps raking her over the coals and even though she got SOME hefty revenge against the preacher. Her father made sure of that. Still she can't seem to catch a break ! 

The story ended with me wishing she could give them all the shaft !!! They were all users !

However.  No matter how good this book was, I'm thinking.   I'm not going to continue in any other books in this particular series ! 

 

 

Bride of the Mad Laird: Scottish Damsel in Distress Romance (Sparks and Tartans: The MacKinnon Clan's Romance Book 12) by Kenna Kendrick

 

Bride of the Mad Laird: Scottish Damsel in Distress Romance (Sparks and Tartans: The MacKinnon Clan's Romance Book 12) Kindle Edition

by Kenna Kendrick (Author) Format: Kindle Edition

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars (5)

Book 12 of 12: Sparks and Tartans: The MacKinnon Clan's Romance

  

 AMAZON LINK

 

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0F3ZVFYGQ

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Scarlet Gryphon

Publication date ‏ : ‎ May 24, 2025

“Keep squirming like that, lass, and I’ll assume ye want me to touch ye.”

Lyra MacInnes has spent her life hidden in a nunnery, cloaked in secrets and silence. But when mercenaries storm the sacred halls, she is rescued by a brooding Highland laird with a wicked smirk, a sharp blade, and lack of patience for questions.

The mad laird of Mull he might be, yet Tòrr MacKinnon’s is not one to leave a lass in danger, even when he should. But when Lyra’s identity is revealed Tòrr is put at crossroads: hand her over and save his people... or claim her as his own and risk everything.

Tòrr was supposed to be her captor. Instead, he might just make her The Bride of the Mad Laird.

Saving her was a mistake. Keeping her? Madness.

This is a Historical Scottish romance novel of more than 400 pages. STANDALONE story, No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after. Scroll up and GET IT NOW!

 

MY REVIEW NOTES-I loved how the story ended and wish I could give it 10Stars 

LYRA what a great name.  And what a great character. Gently trained and protected by the nuns who were NOT her family. They put themselves at great risk for her. And danger DID come for her ! Killing the few guards the nunnery had and some abuse of the Mother nun. 

Torr was a FIERCE WARRIOR. Stopping the attack against Lyra when it was being dragged off against her will. Mother nun was clever in her petition to Torr to get Lyra safely to her home. Torr didn't want to do it but gave in, knowing he was in over his head with a bratty novice.  He just didn't know how much he was in over his head. Well, Lyra wasn't too thrilled about being handed off to two strange men either. That leads to some really fun moments !

Lyra finds some friends at Torr's castle and she doesn't want to put them in the line of danger. Torr has some great friends too and doesn't want to put them in the line of danger either. But he will if need be and they are eager to stand at his side too.   But the dangers come, the battles come and the evil Laird does come for her time and again !!!  Gotta say, the evil Laird was well written in his evilness too !!! I loved how the story ended and wish I could give it 10 Stars 

No rape scenes or super violent scenes are part of this story either. Good to know right?

Wild Irish Renegade (The Mystic Cove Series Book 11) by Tricia O'Malley

    AMAZON

 Book 11 of 12: The Mystic Cove Series 

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08YTHJX4M

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lovewrite Publishing

 

Publication date ‏ : ‎ March 1, 2022

Niamh and Mac are at a turning point in their relationship. Mac knows what he wants, but will Niamh be able to accept it? Download this free short story and see if the cove will glow blue for their love.

 Maybe all the stories in the magazines weren’t true…

Niamh Kearney has one goal in life – to finish out her schooling so she can help children with extra-sensory abilities like her own. Niamh leads a private life, and only her closest friends and family knew of the secrets she holds. When a handsome and very famous rugby player stumbles his way into her life – quite literally, that is – it only takes one date for Niamh to determine that she can never have a future with this man. Celebrity magazines, flashy cars, and fancy restaurants hold zero interest for Niamh.

William “Mac” MacGregor is Ireland’s darling and a favorite of the gossip magazines. As a star rugby player, he is constantly followed by paparazzi and lives his life in the limelight. Not that he particularly enjoys the attention. Mac’s difficult past, and his own deeply buried secrets, makes him cautious about letting anyone get too close. Until he meets Niamh that is. Instantly taken with the warmth in her eyes, her instinct to nurture, and the sense of rightness he feels when he’s with her – Mac must convince Niamh to look past his reputation and to see him for who he really is.

 MY REVIEW- title: Loved the magic but not enough backstory about them

Loved it but was too short. It probably would have helped to have a bit  more of their backstory in this book if a person hadn't read about them first.  But I am  looking forward to reading more about them in the next book.  I do love this series and this book did have a magical happy ending !

 

 

A Dash of Death BY L.B. DAYTON

    AMAZON

Enjoy this brand new series!  Please accept this free advanced reader copy in exchange for a voluntary review posted on Amazon/Kindle when the book goes live.

A flawless night of fine dining.  A deadly twist.  Now, Kat Calloway with a little help from her new furry feline friend, Tux is scrambling to clear her name before she’s served up as the prime choice.

Kat Calloway, the rising star chef at Larkspur, is living her dream—until the unthinkable happens. Harrison Vaughn, a cruel, self-important food critic, drops dead after devouring her perfectly plated meal. What was supposed to be a night of culinary perfection crumbles into a hellish disaster.

With Vaughn’s death pinned on her, Kat becomes the main suspect in the murder investigation. The problem? Everyone ate the same meal, but only Vaughn is dead. Someone served up poison —but who? And how?

Ben, her loyal maitre d’ who has a knack for dark humor, also falls under suspicion with his flippant remark of wishing Vaughn a "final course." Together, they dig into the chaos, sifting through half-baked lies and undercooked truths from staff and guests, uncovering a deadlier plot than they ever imagined.

As the pressure rises like a soufflé, Kat must crack open the case before she’s locked up—or worse, becomes the next to bite the bullet.

 

MY REVIEW- TITLE: My favorite line: Don't Judge Me

This was my first book from this author and It starts out dramatic from the first chapter. And stayed interesting thru out the book. Twists and turns and unexpected suspects really did the trick. Kat was clever, skilled when it came to being a chef, charming when she wants to be, but also tough when needed. But then a cat that just happens to sit at her back door "adopts"her. She doesn't want a cat, but that doesn't matter to Tux who she later gives him that name. Her friend and co-worker Ben, was hilarious, charming and sometimes rude but also a "I stand with you" friend.
There's also a charming baking man whose shop is so often crowded because of his genius with pastries. Plus he's well know in pastry circles, and not hard on the eyes. And as her friend Ben not so delicately tells Kat, Bash Laurent has his eyes on you. She doesn't want a romance either, but there is an attraction there.
The mysteries come to a great conclusion leaving me very satisfied with how it all turned out ! I also have to add that the people were so well fleshed out that I could see someone of them like Ben, doing some of the things mentioned. 5 Stars from me.

There are some recipes in the back of the book after the really good Epilogue.

 

 

free bkfunnel/My GRUMPY BOSSY FIANCE by Aura Bose

     

 email: hello@aurabose.com

Jenna Taylor hates me.
I’m her new boss… and her fake fiancé.

Jenna crashes into me—literally—outside the office.
Sassy, sharp, all sunshine, and too damn good at pushing my buttons.

She’s my brother’s best friend.
And now I’m in charge of a high-stakes project… with her at my side.

We’ve always been oil and water.

Then we get sent to a remote cabin to finish the job.
No Wi-Fi. No escape. And way too much heat.

I expect tension.
I don’t expect to crave the sound of her laugh.

When a scandal threatens my company and everything I’ve built.
The only way to control the fallout? A fake engagement.

She agrees—for my daughter’s sake.
But one night together proves she’s not just under my skin—she’s in my blood.

Every kiss in public feels too real.
Every night pretending is pure torture.

Now I’ve fallen for the one woman I should never touch.
And if my brother finds out the truth—
I won’t just lose my company.
I’ll lose her, too.

 

MY 4 Stars REVIEW- TITLE:  It's about to get worse 

Jenna speaks first in this story.   Then we get to hear his side next. They both think it's a bad idea to be stuck together in a cabin so that they can finish their presentations. There's a lot riding on the line for them each, so when their boss orders them to go.  They pack up and go. And then things get worse. 

 Things begin to hit the fan. That is until everything is over come into a sweet ending !

My amazon review 

 

Free BKFUNNEL//Carolina Teal Cozy Mystery-MURDER ON THE TRAIL AT BLUEBERRY HILL INNN by CC TRACE (4 STARS)

 

Welcome to Pine Haven, where the air is crisp, the gossip is juicy, and murder is just off the beaten path.

Carolina Teal swapped the hustle of New York City for the serenity of Maine’s countryside, hoping to plant roots at the historic Blueberry Hill Inn with her sister Angela. But just as the first wedding party arrives, Carolina stumbles upon a dead body on the inn’s winding trail.

The victim? Pine Haven’s notoriously thorny building inspector— who recently refused to greenlight the inn’s renovations. With whispers spreading faster than the autumn breeze, Carolina finds herself tangled in the town’s suspicions.

When she uncovers the inspector’s cryptic notes, Carolina realizes that the killer is close. Was it Marie, whose inn was also blacklisted by the inspector? Or was it the prickly historian aiming to save Pine Haven’s beloved landmarks?

With her loyal pup Kahlua, a dashing park ranger, and Angela by her side, Carolina must blaze the trail to the truth—before the killer strikes again.

 

MY REVIEW- Title : Old Buildings and Fresh Starts 

I enjoyed this book with both Carolina and Angela both sharing their sides of the story.  It was easy to follow and I liked the underlying threats that the Teal sisters begin to see. There are several people to be suspicious of. But  Jack, the park ranger wasn't one of those suspicious  people. But he did have his eye on Carolina and she was liking that fact too !Kahlua was Carolina's retired K9 dog that she only had for a few months and he added a lot to the story. I liked how the story ended with also another book sneak peek.  

It's called, "Dead Men Don't Ski. 

NETGALLEY READ NOW on my phone app/ Wicked Fun by Dave Pasquantonio: Book 1 of Jane Hawkins, Unretired Serial Killer

  

Mystery & Thrillers

Talking about this book? Use #WickedFun #NetGalley

Description

Jane Hawkins bakes cookies for the church fundraiser, compliments your new curtains, and knows exactly how long it takes to dissolve a body in lye.

She’s your friendly neighborhood widow — charming, chatty, and terrifyingly efficient when it comes to murder. Twenty years ago, Jane was the East Coast’s most prolific serial killer. These days, she’s still living on Cape Cod, trading corpses for cozy mysteries and bloodstains for book tours. Retirement has been… fine. A little dull. Very beige.

But when a cocky true crime podcaster starts connecting the dots on her past, and a mysterious copycat starts reenacting her signature kills, Jane realizes she has a problem. Several, actually.

Now she’s stuck playing mentor to a man she should probably murder, tracking a killer who’s clearly a fan but lacks finesse, and trying very hard not to fall back into old habits.

Spoiler: She’s not trying that hard.

The bodies are piling up. The questions are getting uncomfortable. And Jane’s golden years are looking increasingly… red.

Wicked Fun by Dave Pasquantonio is a razor-sharp thriller for fans of dry martinis, dark secrets, and delightful sociopaths. If Jessica Fletcher had a body count and zero patience, her name would be Jane Hawkins.

MY REVIEW- 5 STARS- TITLE: WICKED FUN  WITH WICKED PUNS

I LOVED it ! I know I probably shouldn't have loved this book so much but  Dave, my man what a wicked sense of humor you have. Jane is so clever, and funny. Hilarious even; especially when it came to her thoughts being spoken out loud and some of those inner thoughts too !

Her adversary, Esmir Roux was something else !!! Clever also, pushy to the point of being a stalker and determined to prove Jane as a murder. The murder of the 10 people at least.   

Dexter, the dog she ends up adopting was a hoot.   And he ended up being the best addition to her solitary life; she said so herself !!

The ending of the story was even better than the beginning; with dangerous, quirky Jane  trying to live a normal, quiet life. Will she be able to? I doubt it and I hope I find the next book because it looks like its going to be "delicious" too !!

I loved the cover for this book too. So appropriate and clever ! Sure fit Jane, the main character too ! 

NEXT BOOK- JANE HAWKINS, UNRETIRED SERIAL KILLER BK 1 

 

FREE AMAZON/ SECRETS OF A MIDLIFE WITCH BOOK 1 BY JC YEMANS- 5 STARS

Available from these stores

.com

This book has profanity and adult situations. This is a dynamic series and should be read in order.

NOW A COMPLETE SERIES!

Who knew one’s life was so full of secrets—a husband’s lies, a family history of witchcraft, a hidden coven, and supernatural beings, wreaking havoc in the town.

Middle-aged Gwynedd Crowther is taking her first graduate class after thirty years in the small college town of Bearsden, Delaware while working a monotonous, part-time insurance job. Recovering from her husband’s death, she’s sleep-deprived and dealing with menopause. She feels lucky to get out of bed in the morning and put on matching shoes.

She meets Scottish professor Dr. Archibald Cockburn and her already jumpy demeanor is tested to the max. He’s younger, easy on the eyes, and amiable. Soon after, she begins to experience unusual phenomena and the weirdest hot flashes ever.

Her best friend convinces her to join the local pagan group of community members and Zillennial graduate students to expand her social circle. When the murder of a local homeless man occurs, her strange experiences go into overdrive, making her question her reality. Are these experiences real? What is this pagan group hiding? Is the murderer a serial killer? Or something more sinister and supernatural?

Secrets of a Midlife Witch is a PWF Urban Fantasy set in a Delaware college town with a reluctant Gen X heroine who falls for a younger Scottish professor, stumbles into a family history of withcraft, and discovers a hidden coven and supernatural beings in her town. Witch Celtic fairy folklore, diverse characters, chosen family, mystery, humor, and steamy romance. (Has profanity.) This is a dynamic series and should be read in order.

 MY 5 STAR REVIEW- Titled- Secrets hold her by the throat

 It was a great story that featured an older woman which I just loved that idea and love her too. She went from a abused shrinking violet to a woman finally coming into SOME of her power. She had no preparation for any of it and she was terrified. She had good reason to be !
Her bestie friend, is hiding a lot of secrets and she's dying to shared this with Gwynedd but she can't YET.  I loved her too ! She was zany, fnny and full of life ! At times Gwynedd, thought she just might be TOO full of life and could get into a lot of trouble. Which she often does ! 
Other friends of Gwynedd's start coming out of the woodwork telling and showing their secrets and totally flummox her.
The biggest surprise is the man, Dr/Professor Cockborn.  She is So drawn to him and he's guarding the biggest secret of all. Will she ever forgive him?  After all she finally realizes she loves him but can she stay in a coven of lies ? All good questions. And I liked how the story ended for now. 

By the way, I really liked the cover picture of this book. 

 

 

BOOK :Protector in a Kilt: A Woman in Trouble, Secret Identity, Grumpy Soft for Sunshine Small Town Scottish Romance (Kilted Hearts Book 4)by Kait Nolan -5 STARS

    AMAZON LINK   5 STARS

 Book 4 of 5: Kilted Hearts

 

A captive who dreams of her freedom

In public, violinist Elizabeth Duncan is the toast of the entertainment world. A prodigy who's been wowing audiences with her music since she was only twelve years old. But behind closed doors, she's desperate to escape the man who's turned her passion into a prison. When the specter of violence becomes more than a threat, she sacrifices everything to run.

A hero lost without a mission

Former special forces operative Ewan McBride has done everything he's supposed to since leaving the military: Moved home. Bought a new business. Integrated into the community. But he's just going through the motions. Until he rescues a woman in trouble in the midst of a terrible storm.

A sanctuary and an unexpected new beginning

Ewan recognizes a woman on the run and can't resist the urge to help. The danger from her past is certain to come calling. The safest place for her? With him. But as they live and work together, what starts as a self-appointed protective detail becomes so much more. With her, he finds his own safe place to land. But when their fragile fresh start is threatened, he'll do anything to protect her.

 ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C5DMYYH5

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Take The Leap Publishing (August 18, 2023)

Publication date ‏ : ‎ August 18, 2023

  

 

 

MY REVIEW: title: I want to read them all in this series. 

 

 Ewan is a born protector. In kilt that he likes and wears some of the times. He's got great friends and town and family even though most of the time he doesn't wan their help. His favorite phrase was for them to butt out of his business.  Elizabeth wishes she had family !!!

 Elizabeth was born free, until her life was turned over to her manager, agent who turned out to be a master manipulator who wouldn't let me make friends, or do anything that she WANTED to do ! Until, she finally said enough. She could see that he was starting to get dangerously more abusive and ran from him. The Highlands turns out to be the BEST place she could have run to. The whole place has her back even BEFORE they know her whole story or even her real name. She has them call her Isobel.  There's been a whole lot of secrets that have been kept from her but they find their way out, especially towards the end of the book. Ewan and Elizabeth/Isobel weren't consciously looking for love or family but they really were !

The emotions, angst and how  Elizabeth/Isobel's music expressed her deepest feelings was great ! The romance ! I enjoyed all of the book, it's supporting characters, Ewan's ma and dad.  His sister and friends and their possible back and forth romances, some trying to re-capture their romance. I want to read this one again !I want to read them all in this series.  Let's start with Ewan's sister first, please !

FREE KINDLE/FROM NETGALLEY/Drop Dead Gorgeous BY JENNIFER SKULLEY

  

AMAZON LINK

 

Book 1 of 7: Mystery of Love

“This mad-cap romp is high-energy fare, swirling with kooky characters, office intrigues, a lawsuit, even a stalker. And some laugh-out-loud scenes.” ~ Romance Reader at Heart

Madison O’Donnell knows she’s going to die when she turns twenty-eight. She’s got two weeks to live and she’s going to make the most of it by falling in love. That’s when her boss decides that if she’s going to pack a lifetime of passion into those two weeks, he’s the man for the job…

She’s kooky, she’s drop dead gorgeous, and she’s never been in love.

More than anything in the whole wide world, Madison wants to fall in love before she dies. And she’s convinced that fateful event might take place before her next birthday. So when she gets a wrong number from a stranger who sounds totally delicious, she knows it’s providence knocking on her door.

He’s older, he’s bald, and he’s an accountant. How’s he supposed to compete with Delicious?

She’s not just his secretary. No, to T. Laurence Hobbs, Madison is…more. And more than anything, T. Larry needs to protect Madison…from herself. So when she gets the kooky idea that the anonymous man on the other end of a wrong number could be The One, there’s only one way to save Madison. T. Larry must put all his skills to proving The One she’s desperately looking for…is him.

Oh, and he probably needs to convince her she’s not going to die before her next birthday, too.

MY REVIEW- 5 STARS "Madison leaves her mark on everything"

 

 Madison kept thinking she was going to die young,before her 28th birthday. Later, in the book her mother tells her she she believes in God and so should Madison. Madison should trust that God have a long life planned for her.
I often forgot that Madison had some physical limitations that bothered her from time to time. Until she mentioned that  her bad hand was tighter than normal.  She was a funny, quirky, smart but not often street smart and she knew how to get her way with a smile and her sweetness. Worked every time. Worked with her boss who she nicknamed, T. Larry, I loved the nicknames that she gave everyone and everything. T. Larry didn't want her answering the phones with the nickname that she gave the company but she never listened. Then T. Larry who ALWAYS had to have a plan realized suddenly  that Madison didn't even see him as a man. It was all fun and games until at about 40% reading mark on my kindle, T. Larry decided she  WAS going to see him as a man. A hot one !

Then, things really begin to take off, including some unforeseen dangers, romances and just plain fun. T. Larry shows himself as T. Larry THE MAN. Although that's not exactly what Madison calls him. Lol
It has a great ending !!!

ARC/BKFUNNEL/ MY ENEMY'S VOW An Age Gap Mafia Romance BY SOPHIA VALE ( 4 stars)

  SOPHIA VALE EMAIL hello@sophiavaleromanceauthor.com

He’s twice my age, my enemy—now, I’m his, bound by obsession.

When my father couldn’t pay his debts, he offered me instead to Marcel Valenti: a powerful mafia king with a fortune that matches his influence.  

 

He’s twice my age with stormy-gray eyes that strip me bare. He has short, slicked-back hair, tattoos in a perfectly tailored suit that hints at the chiseled abs beneath. 

 

I can't tear my eyes away.

At first, I resisted—his dominance, his power, his unyielding world.

 

But each day ,the fire between us burns hotter. 

His gaze sears, his touch ignites, and his words unravel me.

 

And when he devours my body, it makes me want him even more.

He’s no longer just my captor—he’s the one I can’t live without.

 

But my family would rather see me dead than with him.

And losing him… is a fate I can't survive.

 

MY REVIEW- 4 STARS for intense romance and suspicions 

I really liked Isabella and Marcel.  And the fact that they were unwillingly attracted to each other in the midst of a threatened war.  Isabella is well aware of her being used as "bait" but didn't realize until later the depth of the betrayals.

Where will Isabella stand when she must make that dangerous choice? 

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

 

 

 

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FREE KINDLE/ STONE SONG BY TRICIA O'MALLEY - an Irish fae romance (The Isle of Destiny Series Book 1) Book 1 of 4

  Clare MacBride has her life in exactly the order she wants it. In a year, she’ll have finished her geology dissertation, though she’s no closer to figuring out the answer to one question that plagues her. Why does she feel stones pulse with energy?

A centuries-old curse, a mysterious faction of protectors, and a mythological godstone all sound like old world fairytale nonsense to Clare. It only takes one rainy evening with a silver-eyed fae and a handsome stranger promising protection to rock her world forever. With her life plans shattered at her feet, the lines of science and fiction blur as Clare is forced to throw everything she knows about the world out the window and look deep within her heart for answers.

MY REVIEW- 

Another winner by Tricia O'Malley.  Wonderful characters, wonderful surprises, twists, dangers and overcoming of evil. At least for the time being.  Until all of the treasures have been found and returned to their rightful owner and home. Bianca and Seamus may seem like back ground players at first but they come front and center throughout. Loved them. But Claire and Blake they were the best of all ! What great heat between them even as they resisted their instant attraction to each other.  And the funny conversations between Claire and Bianca was so much fun. Even the "hisssing" between Claire and her protector Blake was  enjoyable.
There were also several great people along the way. Those that helped and those that planned to hinder and kill them all.
Final outcome?  SO Worth reading this story.
I wish I could give it more than 5 STARS.

Review titled: Claire comes into her powers & love

ARC/FREEFUNNEL of /The Grumpy Actor BY Nora Daniels

 

A Small Town Second Chance Romance

   

Seven years ago, he broke my heart. Now he’s back—grumpier than ever—and I’m his assistant.

Liam Ryder—Hollywood’s most talked-about heartthrob—left me behind the second he got famous.

Now he’s filming in Surfside Haven… and thanks to my mom’s meddling, I’m at his beck and call 24/7.

And of course, he pretends we’re total strangers.

He’s bossy, brooding, and impossible to read.
Although we fight, there is a spark that never left.

Then he kisses me.
Suddenly, pretending I’m over him gets harder by the hour.

He shows up at my mom’s birthday with flowers.
Watches me like I’m the only thing that’s ever held his attention.

I swore I wouldn’t fall again.
But my heart doesn’t listen.

Now our past is plastered all over the tabloids—dragging our delicate second chance into the spotlight. 

This time, it feels like we might finally get it right.

But if Liam still believes love is a distraction, I might lose him all over again… just when I’m brave enough to believe in us.

MY 5 STAR REVIEW- Titled: Will Liam ever learn to Love?

Lily is her best friend who is excited about the movie stars in town. Sophie Grant, not so much, especially when she learns one of them is Liam Ryder.  It's 7 years later when they meet up again.  

Sophie and Liam each share their points of view which I enjoyed as I learned more about each of them. Turns out Julian is Liam's best friend of 7 years and now his manager too ! Julian had also started his own company as well. Julian is great !

The movie that Liam is in town to film is called, Baked with Love.  A rom-com he didn't even what to be part of. He got challenged by person interviewing him that said he couldn't pull it off . And Liam was already kicking himself for taking that dare. 

Great story with Liam being rude, nasty and cold for much of the story. Making you want to smack him and ask, "What's your problem?"  Sophie was such a sweetheart that SHE made you want to stand right next to her and smack Liam right in his head!!

There's more to the story of course and it all does comes out and a great ending as well !!!

ARC/ REVIEWED MURDER MADE OFFICAL BY CARLA CROWE- 5 stars

TITLE OF REVIEW: Loved this town & it's people:

I Loved Chowder, the snoopy dog. Candice and Chowder work together so good. Sterling gets weary as the Chief of Police, but he does eventually listen to more of what Candice has to say, and looking at some evidence she turns up with the help of her friends. I liked how he was portrayed as he does respect her and begins to work WITH her.  Unofficially of course !

Christopher as the reporter keeps things interesting, making me wonder along the way if there were romantic sparks there.

Gracie, who is Candice's friendly ears to the ground, listener to gossip friend,  is a great add to the story.  At one point though, many doors were slammed in their faces until they finally got ALL of the truth. Great suspense. 

There's a touch of hopeful romance between Candice Holloday and Christopher Donovan. And several other people are added in the story. This is the first book that I've read in this series !

I like how it was added that East Black Oak had been tested but that they would recover because they had survived.

FREE BOOKFUNNEL/ Claimed by the Bratva: Broken Hero Dark Past Mafia Romance BY NIKKI BLAKE - 5 STARS

  

At twenty, I was my father’s prized possession, sheltered and obedient.
But when he promised me to Viktor Sokolov—a man fifteen years my senior and as feared as he was respected—my life became a dark gamble.

Viktor was ruthless, a cold enforcer with a history drenched in blood and betrayal.
His eyes burned with unspoken torment, and his touch was both a promise of pain and pleasure.
I was thrust into a marriage that bound me not just to a man but to a world where trust was scarce, and survival meant playing by brutal rules.

He said I was his, that there was no escape.
I fought him at every turn, but the fire between us couldn’t be denied.
And when I discovered I was carrying his child, the stakes turned deadly.
As secrets from Viktor’s past surfaced, so did the enemies that threatened to tear us apart.
He’d claim me as his queen, but only if he could conquer the darkness that ruled him.

Would his demons destroy us both, or would I find a way to tame the beast before it was too late?

The Bratva doesn’t forgive, and it never forgets. In this world, only the strong survive—claimed, tested, and bound to men who bend the world to their will.

 

MY REVIEW- 5 STARS Title: You can run but can't hide from love 

 Great story with interesting main characters. Viktor Sokolov was so much more than he appeared at first. Ana. Ah, Ana that girl had steel in her that people just didn't see coming. Something that they WILL regret when it comes to underestimating her ! Even Viktor is stunned by how fierce she can become. 
Irina, was another person in the story that I liked although she brought some sudden surprises too ! Geraldo now there is one man you really have to watch out for. More dangerous than anyone had suspected.  There is definite heat in this story but plenty of twists turns and surprises that kept me totally in. Ana's father had a sad surprise for her. But the story comes to a great ending and I would definitely read it again !

ARC/BK FUNNEL/ MURDER SERVED COLD BY DAISY BELLE

  

AMAZON LINK  

Part of: A Chloe Lane Cozy Mystery Series (4 books) 

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0F9DTS6L1
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ May 20, 2025

The last thing I expected during Bramble Dale’s big debut cook-off was a dead food critic face-first in a plate of my best friends winning but fatal almond chicken.
It was and accident because she wouldn’t poison him on purpose. Really?
Now I’m knee-deep in flour, lies, and a whole lot of bad alibis, trying to figure out who really wanted this foodie dead.
Between his baking co-star girlfriend stealing the show and a rival food critic cutting into his review columns this harsh baking judge had more enemies than a guy could choke on.
With my pet detective yellow Lab, Peanut, and my dangerously handsome crush, I’m out to uncover the truth one dish at a time.
Between stolen recipes, missing tapes, and shady chefs, things in Bramble Dale are heating up.
I have to find a killer fast or I might be the next one served cold in the morgue and my bestie will be cooking up lunch in the prison cafeteria.

MY REVIEW- 5 STARS TITLE OF REVIEW

SMART DOG & FRIENDS SOLVE THE CASE

I loved this story of smart Peanut who often ''accidentally on purpose'' helps find clues to solve the case. Rosie's boyfriend and  Chloe and her boyfriend Aiden close in to clear Rosie of murder.  It's a clean story with no sex scenes but with flirty attraction between Chloe and Aiden. And yes, it was funny too !

Great ending with a quick peek into another book.

 

May 19th ARC REVIEW- TAMED BY THE GRUMPY BODY GUARD BY Connie Blake

   AMAZON LINK

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0F7JQFYY5
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ May 19, 2025

Just when I thought I could manage any crazy fan, he shows up—Eli, the brooding bodyguard. Now, we're stuck together, and my stalker's closing in.

Imagine being me, Aria Celeste, chart-topping popstar with a stalker I can't shake.

Enter Eli, ex-SWAT, all grumpy protector, hired to keep me safe. Despite his 'stay away' vibe, I'm drawn to him.

Forced into hiding at Eli's after a close call, our walls come down. Our connection deepens, sparked by whispered conversations and intense glances.

Then, the unthinkable happens. During a gripping confrontation where my life hangs by a thread, Eli steps in, risking everything for me.

His confession? He's fallen hard. And suddenly, it's not just my safety on the line, but our hearts too.

If falling for my bodyguard means facing my darkest fears head-on, I’m trusting him to catch me if I fall.

 

MY REVIEW-  5 STARS  The Bright Star vs The Grump

Aria is a Bright Star in more than one way and I loved her gumption and her pushing of Eli's buttons. She's fearless, fun and funny. Her manager, and friend Livia is doing her best to guide and protect her.  But frankly, she's exhausted and looking for someone who can contain and protect Aria.  Aria is very talented, loves everyone and can't really see why she has to be so over protected.

Enter Eli and what that entrance that was.  The first chapter drew me in right away. It was a hilarious first "interview" but Aria does get him back about that a little later.   Keeping Aria safe is like trying to contain a bag of cats that got loose. 

Eli's niece Sarah was also a hoot and I liked her a lot.  

It's not all humor and fun swiping back and forth with sarcastic quips, although I did enjoy those.   There is danger that isn't quite so hidden anymore.  

The ending was great, with some new beginnings happening too.

 

ARC/"Sugar Spells & Secrets" by Tessa Silver

 

Welcome to Quillhaven, where candy carries enchantments and secrets are as sweet—and sticky—as caramel.

When Sophie Vanora inherits her great-aunt’s candy shop, Sugar Spells, she’s expecting powdered sugar and peppermint bark—not magical confections and mysterious break-ins.

But when her aunt’s secret recipe book of enchanted sweets vanishes, along with the powerful recipe for Lullaby Caramels, and an ominous note reading Lullaby and good night is left behind, Sophie knows this is more than petty theft.

Someone is after the magic—and they don’t plan to play nice.

With the help of quirky townsfolk, a pair of mischievous feline detectives named Leo and Luna, and a skeptic police chief who’s easier on the eyes than on the explanations, Sophie must uncover who’s after the town’s magical secrets—before her own story takes a dangerous turn.

Who took the book, and what secret power lies behind the Lullaby Caramels?

And can Sophie unravel the truth before Quillhaven’s sweetest magic is lost forever?

If you love cozy mysteries with a dash of magic, a sprinkle of sweetness, and a side of sleuthing, you’ll adore this magical cozy mystery 

 

 

MY REVIEW- 5 STARS- This story was even better than I hoped for

 

Loved this quirky, fun charming and sometimes spooky story. The community was loving, fun, having each others backs until evil invaded their magical town. Many secrets were being hidden, some out of greed and some out of fear of what they know.  Sophie was the best even though she didn't know it at first ! There were some people who already knew she was the best ! And  it looks like romance is brewing for Sophie but I'm not going to give out with who, because why spoil the story ?  

And Luna and Leo ? Come on, who couldn't be charmed by those two ? Lol. 

(Pun intended) 

I will be reading more of the stories about this enchanted village.

ARC/In Bed with her Highland Foe: Love & Lies: The Chattan's Clan Secret Tales Book 6) by Shona Thompson

 Love & Lies: The Chattan's Clan Secret Tales Book 6

 

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CW1KNKMP
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Scarlet Gryphon (March 2, 2024)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ March 2, 2024

 

                               AMAZON LINK

“Dinnae call me ‘me lady’ again. We both ken well I’m nae lady at all.”

Michael Gregor may be many things, but he’s no fool. So, when faced with a dire ultimatum—to vanish without a trace or witness his loved ones' demise—he chooses without hesitation. Burying the name Michael in his past, he becomes his new self: a cold-hearted brute named Gilchrist. And it turns out that unlike Michael, Gilchrist is a fool.

Because he falls for the woman who has vowed to see his family crumble… even though it is for a crime they didn’t commit.

Kyven McDowell has hit rock bottom. Actually, if she is honest with herself, she has gone beyond that. She has fallen for Gilchrist – her warlord, friend and… not her betrothed. Because she’s already promised…

Little does she know that the very man who has captured her heart is accused of her father's murder…

Gilchrist knows Kyven will never forgive him for concealing his true identity, so he's determined to take his secret to his grave. Until the man who dispelled him all those years ago returns… as Kyven’s fiancé.

It turned out she never knew the man she’d spend her life loving…

*If you like brawny Highland warriors with a soft heart, and romantic stories depicting the majestic and mysterious Scottish Highlands, then this is DEFINITELY for you.

This is a Historical Scottish romance novel of more than 400 pages. STANDALONE stories, No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after. Scroll up and GET IT NOW!

 

MY REVIEW- TITLE: SO WORTH READING    my rating 5 STARS    

  What a great book, the main characters, the intense enemies of Laird Shay and his sidekick Larry. They are evil intense and clever. Never giving up to their pursuit of Michael who was known as Gilchrist. 

Kyven McDowell was passionate, smart and her council is abusive in their push to get her married, so they can appoint a man as a protector of their clan, their castle. They are trying to push her into a mold that she wasn't designed to fit. Their expectations of not only who she should marry, but how she should dress and present herself.  One of the pushy men on her board of councilors was the worse one, and pushed his opinion forward all the time, bullying others who didn't agree to be silent.

 Gilchrist has become the silent warrior who loves her and has befriended her. For some time in the book, their is unrequited love shown because of the challenges before them. Gilchrist was not only a fierce warrior but also a tender friend. It was good and so was the ending.

On a side note, Gilchrist did have a faithful soldier friend, who was funny and came up with several unique and unorthodox plans. Some got Gilchrist in more trouble to his way of thinking. And some actually worked.  Aaden was the name of that friend and he also had secrets of his own. That should be interesting !

FREE ARC BK FUNNEL/ EXPOSED LIES BY S.S ELARA /5 STARS

 

He’s an ex-operative with a shadowed past.
She’s a truth-chasing journalist caught in the crossfire.
Falling for each other was never part of the mission.

Damian Ross doesn't do second chances or emotional entanglements. But when a lead pulls him deep into the world of the Hale Foundation—a powerful empire built on deception—he’s forced to partner with Avery Lane: his best friend’s sister and the one woman who sees through his walls.

Avery lives for the truth. What she uncovers could take down the Hales and avenge the death of someone she loved. But going undercover with Damian—posing as husband and wife—means more than risking her career. It means risking her heart.

As danger closes in, secrets surface, and enemies tighten their grip, the line between what's real and what's fake begins to blur. Passion ignites. Loyalties are tested. And in a world where lies can kill, love might be the only thing worth saving.

 

MY REVIEW- 5 STARS

TITLE: DARK, DANGEROUS & LOVELY.

Both Damian and Avery were sharp minded, mission minded and dangerous in their own ways. They were both extremely attracted to each other but will NOT allow themselves to show it or act upon it either.  It's too dangerous and the betrayals are so deep and even beyond what they had imagined or feared.  The depth of this story was great, the feelings between the two of them and the dangerous exposures and outright threats more fearful !  Their enemies are close, really close and go many times way ahead of them. There's insiders helping battle against them. It's sad and many friends do die. Damian has underestimated Avery and he begins to see that when the true strength of Avery Lane shows up ! She''s not going to quick or back up for anyone and not to Damian either !! He's shocked by that.  I loved the sarcasm that came out of their mouth but Avery fires back for every sarcasm aimed at her. Getting Damian every time. He can't outwit her. I loved how their romance slowly began to be revealed as they fought against it.

I loved how the story came to a twisty end, with opportunities for future books. A great story.  I would read it again !

 

 

 

FREE BK FUNNEL copy of /Write Me a Murder by PHILIPPA WOZNIAK 5 stars

 

Espionage is a killer.

 

   

Myrtle is older, doesn't have a perfect physique and can be a bit of a klutz. Although she means well, most of the time, her tone can have a hint of sarcasm.  As a retired person, whether she realizes it or not, she is looking for relevance in pursuing her writing career. To further that effort she travels to conferences and exotic places to learn more about her craft. She is wined, dined and travels in luxury. Men admire her mind. She is instrumental in solving the murder mystery. They say, write what you know. This is my personal fantasy. So, there you have it. Enjoy this first in the MYRTLE GLUBBER Mystery Series by Philippa Wozniak. 

The Southwest Mystery Writer’s Convention provides quite the diversion to Myrtle Glubber’s drab routine and a chance at a second career as an author when she and her friends are offered a publishing contract with an exorbitant advance. Add a dash of fine dining and expensive spirits, stir in the amorous attention from Mager Publishing Executive Frank Burns and Myrtle is living out her Cinderella fantasy. Or so she thinks. The heat is on when one of the convention’s hosts is murdered and the evidence starts to point at Myrtle’s friends.

Myrtle has a hunch the writer awards, the money, and the murder are all connected, but putting these pieces together could cost her lifelong dream and all the money and fine dining that goes along with it. Not to mention the second mystery. What are Frank Burn’s intentions and connection to all of this?

Who should she save, her new career, her friends, or her new romantic interest ?

 

MY REVIEW 5 STARS-  title of review: 

Myrtle solves the mystery of, "Why were we selected ?"

I loved this book and especially quirky but smart, and at times snarky Myrtle.  She does take any "junk" from anybody although she is courteous until challenged by idiots. And one idiot potential publisher of her books, critiques her entry and has the nerve to say that her book stinks and when he does she tells him where to  stick his opinion. Myrtle does leave the room with some tears leaking out of her eyes but tells herself to suck it up and move one.  She's not even really impressed by law enforcement although she's clearly NOT a criminal.  It did have me scratching my head at her friend, Peggy because she clearly was an idiot, a horrible writer and a clinger who was often pretty critical of her "friends". Although not so much of Stanley, who it turns out she has a crush on. The on going question through-out the book is "Why were they selected for this great honor ? Sure they were good writers, not Peggy so much though.  But why this cushy offer and big cash rewards ? Peggy and Stanley aren't suspicious but Myrtle is right from the beginning. She tries to put it behind her because wow it really was a great honor. But it just keeps nagging her until the end. The end which is a great one !

By the way..I really liked the cover.    MY REVIEW

 

 

 

 

The Rumble and the Glory: Small Town, Enemies to Lovers, Second Chance (Sacred Trinity Book 1) by JA (5 STAR Rating from Me)

     AMAZON LINK

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CTHQW6TM
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Science Future Press (June 27, 2024)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ June 27, 2024

Collin built a kill team. Lowyn built an empire. Twelve years after breaking her heart, he’s back for a fresh start—and a second chance. But Lowyn isn’t the good girl he left behind. Old sins rise, secrets burn, and this small town’s revival is ready to blow. Love this dangerous always leaves a mark. Enemies-to-Lovers meets Touch-Her-and-Die.

Deep in the hills of West Virginia, three small towns have found a way to flourish in the face of extreme poverty. Disciple runs a side-show tent revival that brings in millions of dollars a year. Bishop flaunts traditional ways in the vein of Colonial Williamsburg, luring weary city people to the slow-living lifestyle. And Revenant offers them an experience of sin filled with tattooed bikers and live-music dive bars.

It’s a sacred trinity that worships the almighty dollar and everyone plays their role like a well-trained Broadway actor.

But these hills have secrets, and so do the people.

Twelve years ago, when he was just eighteen and dreaming of a future with his high school sweetheart, Collin Creed learned something about himself. Something so disturbing he left Disciple to join the Marines and didn’t once look back. But all that came to a screeching halt with the congressional hearings, forcing Collin to return home and rebuild his black-ops empire brick by brick.

Lowyn McBride’s heart broke when Collin shut her out and left town without an explanation just as they were getting ready to start their adult lives together. The death of her mother the following year was a make-or-break moment and Lowyn rose to the occasion, giving up her university education to parent her younger sister while building an empire of her own as a specialty antiques dealer.

Anger and desire, guilt and shame—the return of the enigmatic Collin Creed ignites the town and sparks an explosion of emotions inside Lowyn. But he’s not the only one with a secret in his past.

Lowyn has always played the good girl to Collin’s bad-boy reputation. But it turns out—she’s just like everyone else up in these hills—not as wholesome and pure as she looks.

The Rumble and the Glory is a cinematic and spicy small-town secret, second-chance romance wrapped up in a cloak of mystery and suspense. It honors the themes of found family, redemptive anti-hero, and is filled with bigger-than-life, morally-grey characters against a backdrop of deceit and deception.
INSIDE THE PAGES YOU WILL FIND:
Spicy Soulmate Connections
Touch Her and Die Scenarios
Small Towns with Big Secrets
Opposites Attracting
Second Chances
Childhood Sweethearts
Morally Grey Situations
A Bonded Found Family
Charming Alpha Heroes
Ambitious and Brave Leading Ladies
Wild and Wonderful Settings
The Perfect Level of Danger & Suspense
And a whole cast of characters that will immediately wriggle their way into your heart. 

   

MY REVIEW- 5 STARS- title:

The cover creeped me out but the title drew me back in !!! 

So glad I read it though! It was beyond wonderful. Now I want to read the next book in the series.. 

Lowyn and Collin, interesting, twisted secrets but such strong love still exists between them !!!

Speaking of twisted secrets, that loving, but kinda still creepy village has TONS of secrets !! 

Collin and Lowyn still have friends on both sides and I loved them as well. Collin's friends were drawn out clearly, with full personalities. Some fun but ALL dangerous in their own ways. That was made abundantly clear but not in a way that was bloody.  I appreciated that !

There was humor, betrayals of the highest order, secret military interventions and one manipulative male mayor of the village.  Oh, there is revenge coming too. I loved how Lowyn offered Revenge Sales,, beginning with herself when she got furious when Collin returns !!

 There were so many levels of surprises and I adored that and how things turned out in this book. There is going to be more challenges in their future, they know it and like Lowyn said they were going to face them like adults; their not kids anymore. Let the fun begin. In the next book which I am looking forward to  !