Tainted by Marsha R West
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I am once again sucked into a wonderful suspenseful story about love and second chances. The leads characters in this book can be touched on a personal level and makes this book a must read! Suspense, love, action and history make a good one two punch combo that makes this a page turner.
Can’t wait to read more West books in the future!
A Divided Mind by M. Billiter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I wasn’t sure what I would think about this book when I first picked it up.
Turns out, I had a lot to learn.
Reading Branson’s inner thoughts while he was dealing with his inner demons was a true eye-opening experience.
I really enjoyed getting two experiences through this book. Branson and Tara’s separate but same journey throughout this book had me reading this in one setting. One cannot assume or fathom what the other is feeling and why.
Turns our hind sight can really change the outcome of a story.
I hope to read the next installment of this story really soon.
No Way Out by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was my first time reading a mafia romance and I must say I really enjoyed it. I could tell from the first chapter that I was going to love it. I was entranced with the story, the characters and the world the author created. I love Max and Liliana. Both characters are strong and intelligent. They both have to make hard choices in a treacherous world.
I definitely will be reading more by Amy McKinley. The sexual tension between Max and Liliana was hot and spicy! Watching their relationship grow was beautiful! I was so happy this story is told from both perspectives, Max and Liliana. I honestly didn’t want this book to end. I cannot wait to read the other books in this series.
Tainted by Marsha R West
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This book has an interesting premise, incorporating some danger and intrigue with romance. Marshall Matt Thornton is a tall handsome drink of water that might just be what parched Liz Hartman needs after an acrimonious divorce from her criminal ex-husband. Liz’ character is drawn well, we get to see what’s going on in her mind as she tries to put some distance between herself (and her grown children) and the terrible reputation the man made of their last name. The writing flowed well, but I found myself a bit bored with the mundanities of the story. I wanted some deeper insights, and more than a purely plot-driven story. However, it is an easy-to-read book that crime/suspense fans may enjoy.
Reviewed by @ericalorraine
View all my reviews
Journeys Through TimeSpace by James Talisman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the Journeys Through series. It picks right up where the first book ends. It was an exciting book filled with danger, treasures, travel, time travel, and an ultimate supreme that isn’t communicating.
I had problems following all the characters the same as I did in the first book, but luckily in the beginning of the book is a list of the characters and which universe they belonged to. My issues following the characters didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book. Both books in this series really made me think outside the box about what I believe. Why can’t there be more than one universe? Why can’t one supreme being be in charge of them all? These books made me think in ways I never have before.
Caught by Him by Tammy Mannersly
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Caught by Him is a short, sweet story of Brody and Willa. When they first meet, Brody believes Willa is a thief as she is trying to go over a high fence at her grandfather’s house while house sitting. Once they meet sparks fly. Brody is a big movie star, needing to take a break from life in the fast lane of movies and spending time getting to know Willa is perfect. When Brody’s PR Rep, Carmody, tries to break them apart and Willa’s relentless ex boyfriend, Hayden, shows up still to profess his love, will Brody and Willa’s love continue? This is a short read, very sweet and overall a good story. I really enjoyed it and looking forward to reading more books from Author Tammy Mannersly. 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Caine by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I’ve been excited about this one! I enjoyed reading Hawke, so had high hopes for what came next from Anise Storm and her Men of Syn. We met Emery in the first book, but she wasn’t sitting high and mighty living off Daddy in this one. Fallen princess meets dominant Caine. Trying to lay low, Caine is working to clear his name. What happens when their worlds collide? Steam, possession, love and secrets. I loved the growth in Emery by the end, and dare I say… I loved Caine even more than Hawke!
Notebook Mysteries ~ Decisions and Possibilities by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Emma Evans is an eighteen-year-old who lives in Chicago in 1883. She likes to carry a notebook where she records her observations. She is a young woman before her time. She gets into business school which is almost impossible with the help of an acquaintance. After graduation along with her brother-in-law’s help, Emma talks to the head of the business school to allow more women into the business school as men make more money in other jobs and new companies still need the administrative help.
Along with her business mind, Emma likes solving mysteries. She is involved with the Pinkerton Detective agency, but she doesn’t work there full-time. When a detective colleague investigates an old case that Emma was involved in personally, she becomes friends with a lady that she saved from a brutal beating a few years ago. With this lady’s connections, Emma and her family are able to take women away from the Chicago area where they have had abusive relationships and put them back in touch with family.
Notebook Mysteries is a quaint story that will take to a time when Chicago was just beginning to grow. It’s a time in history when society believed that a woman’s place was inside the home. Fortunately for Emma and other women who did not have a husband the city is getting big enough to be a little more open-minded. Join Emma as her life is full of mysteries that she hopes to solve piece by piece.
Swindler’s Revenge by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Swindler’s Revenge is the fifth book in Ellen Butler’s exciting Karina Cardinal Mystery series. Kariba has a knack for getting caught up in a variety of complicated and dangerous cases. Fortunately, by this stage in the series, she’s well-versed in legal procedures and self-defence, and has friends she knows she can turn to. Not that that means she’s in any less danger…
In Swindler’s Revenge, Karina’s ex Mike has been accused of acquiring over a million dollars by some nefarious means. Having parted on (reasonably) good terms, and unconvinced that Mike is guilty, Karina chooses to help Mike evade the FBI until she can work out what really happened.
It’s a real page turner, full of plenty of details and clues to keep the reader engaged. There are some great characters – I have a bit of a soft spot for Rodrigo, who’s always got Karina’s back and who is as (if not more) observant as the trained people at the FBI and Silverthorne.
I’d recommend reading this series from the start, although you can absolutely jump in here if this book particularly appeals to you. Karina develops as a character over the course of the series so it’s good to see that unfolding.
This book gets five stars from me, a great addition to the series! It’s a must-read for anyone who likes snuggling up with a good mystery.
Unsettled Scores by Kel O’Connor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Unsettled Scores by Kel O’Conner is the second book in the DAG Team series. This book can be read as a stand-alone although the stories do seem to overlap so reading the previous book first could be beneficial.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I found it to be a pretty fast paced book. The writing was exciting and the author knew just when to throw in some twists and turns.
The characters were interesting and engaging. They are the kind of ones that you get behind right from the start. This was a great book that I found thoroughly enjoyable. I will be going back to read book one.
Journeys Through TimeSpace by James Talisman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Once again, James Talisman weaves an intricate tale of adventure and mystery in the second book of the Journeys Through series! I don’t normally pick up sci-fi, but this book did keep my attention. Picking up right where the first left off, the twists and turns had me invested from beginning to end. The MC characters are little black and white, I would have liked to see more grey for them. I loved how so many points in the multiverse are connected across time and space. Even if the genre isn’t normally your thing, I would encourage giving this book a shot. I am excited to see what else this author will create in the future!
Reviewed by @asanabr1
Forbidden Mate by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Tasha is a vampire soldier. Levi is a lycan soldier and has taken over as alpha of his camp of soldiers. Together they have brought Tasha’s vampire clan into the camp and plan to work together as a team. New peace accords are written between the vampire clan and the lycan camp. Amazingly the team is fighting their common enemy the Hellspawn. With new weapons and science, the vampire and lycan group has made some progress against the Hellspawn, but with an enemy like the Hellspawn the challenges beaten bring about new challenges.
Tasha and Levi have to fight against the culture of both clans to maintain their relationship. As soul mates, there are individuals and groups who say that a union between a vampire and lycan shouldn’t happen. As Tasha and Levi experience new challenges as a couple, new mysteries of their past come to the forefront that have to be dealt with appropriately.
As the second book in The Shadow Chronicles series, Forbidden Mate is a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Watching Tasha and Levi grow into their roles within their communities and in their relationship is worth the read.
No Way Out by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
What an action-packed story! McKinley truly wrote a masterpiece. It has countless elements that make this story hard to stop reading. I felt an immediate connection to these characters and the plight of the main characters Max and Liliana. I applaud McKinley with her smooth understandable writing. She spared no detail.
Scarlet Princess by Robin D. Mahle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was such a good story or of a strong willed princess who was someone that was easily admired in more than one way. The story seamed to weave just so perfectly, and everything that happened, made sense, and the twists and turns and impact it did to the story was undeniable! I could easily be apart of this kingdom helping Rowan with the issues she faced. It was that amazing of a story!
It was not hard to like Rowan. She had the brilliant mind of a ruler, but also the right amount of sass for any situation and the perfect ruler for her kingdom in my opinion. She was more than just well written, she was very realistic in more ways than one! She faced trouble sort to say through out this book, but she knew how to handle her self, and wanted to be her independent self. She may be trouble some at times, but when the fight for life as well as her kingdom comes up, she is more stronger in her heart than anyone probably ever expected, as well as a force not to be reckoned with!
I loved how the story played out. With not just our heroine, Rowan, but with the other characters she meets and we are introduced to through out the book. Characters I met, I thought were say a “good guy” but is that the intention or someone more wicked? Or am I wrong of the wickedness? There was so much awesome components to this novel! When I got to the end, I was like no! I want to know more, but this is where it will pause to the next one in the series. I need the next installment, out as of well like yesterday haha. It was so easy to get lost into this book, and I loved it from beginning to the pause at the end.
The author had put together a wonderful story that flowed like a beautiful river, each thing leading to the next. Every word and action led to what happened next. It was an amazing read, and so very easy to get sucked into the story line, and get lost in. Which i certainly did! The writing and technique truly spoke for itself and I anxiously am awaiting to see what unfolds in the next book in this amazing series!
Deadly Words by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Powerful thriller. Creepy yet Poppy is strong and insightful. She will get through whatever gets thrown at her. The characters are rich and well-thought out. The plot is action-packed and sucks you in from the beginning. I love how it goes from past to present and back. You get a look at how it impacted her life. Really good crime suspense novel. You must read this. Definitely a worthy read.
No Way Out by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was definitely a page turner for me! I was so invested in the story and kept wanting to know what was going to happen next, which isn’t surprising for me since Amy McKinley’s other books were like that for me as well. I enjoyed reading this story as I’m sure plenty of other suspense romance readers will as well!
Scarlet Princess by Robin D. Mahle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a book written by two authors that I was unfamiliar with. I must say that they did an unbelievable job of writing this book together. I LOVED IT! I fell madly in love with the main character, and I want to be her. Seriously. She is such a strong willed and independent person that I couldn’t help but love her. And root for her success I did. There is apparently a series that was written previously that takes place in the same land of Lochlann that I didn’t know about before reading this book. I don’t think it’s required to read it prior to beginning this one. However, I do plan to go to my library to check them out just so I can get more insight into the land. I will say, PLEASE READ THIS BOOK! I promise that you will love and enjoy it just as much as I did. I honestly can’t say that this book had any flaws. I cannot wait to read book 2. Thank you ladies for such a wonderfully, well written book.
Another Yesterday by Angela Christina Archer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was the perfect mix of family love and self love. The growth of the characters, even through both storylines was so amazing to read. It made me need to know how their story was going to end. I love the happy ending and read the entire book in like 4 hours, because I just didn’t want to stop. I needed to see the resolution to this chapter of their story and be able to know that in the next chapter, she has good things in her life to lean on.
Caine by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
If you love Hawke and Charlotte in book one, you are going to love Caine and Emery in book two. The backdrop of the book is corruption at a high level. Caine reaches out to his long time friend Hawke for help when he has to run from Washington DC.
Caine is wanted for murder and Emery is left penniless when her father is sent to jail. The trouble these two find themselves in is linked together unbeknownst to them. They meet at Syn Hawke’s BDSM nightclub. Sparks fly when these two are together.
I loved that author Anise Storm kept the characters from the first book in the second book with more than a passing reference. If you haven’t yet read this series. I highly recommend them.
Written in the Stars by Angela Christina Archer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was amazing! I honestly just adore the way Archer tells the stories. She makes these people real to me. By the end of her books I am invested in the way the characters end up, and how their conflict is resolved. The genuine love in the relationships she writes about make me happy and show me all of the authenticity of the love of a family whether it’s by blood or not. I honestly can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
Journeys Through TimeSpace by James Talisman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a masterful multiverse James Talisman has created!!! This story will take you further through time travel than ever before. Beloved and not so beloved characters make a return appearance in this second installment to the inter dimensional worlds. If you haven’t read the first installment to this series you will be a bit lost so be sure to check that out first. So much drama, action, adventure and detail packed into one amazing story! Mr. Talisman has an official fan!
Swindler’s Revenge by Ellen Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Swindler’s Revenge – Ellen Butler
4-stars
This is the 5th book in the Karina Cardinal Mystery series, a series that I believe should be read in order as each new book sort of follows the last with the same main characters. Just like the other books of the series I was able to read this book in one sitting as I couldn’t bring myself to stop reading.
I loved the funny banter between the characters, the mystery and trying to put all of the pieces of the puzzle together. I have enjoyed each book of the series but this one has been my favorite so far. If you are looking for an entertaining, funny, light hearted mystery look no further this is the book for you!
Romancing the Tropics by L.M. Mountford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book contains 2 stories and both if them are steamy romances. The author does an amazing job at bringing the chemistry and passion between the couples alive through these pages.
The first book is about a young woman who had her heart broken by her ex. Trying to rediscover who she is, she acts on her attraction to her best friends dad. She has been attracted to him for years and now she wants to see if the reality matches her dreams. The chemistry and attraction between them is very hot and the passion makes for a very steamy encounter.
The second story is about a couple who had a night together at prom. The next day Sarah left. Years later after an abusive relationship Alex decides he’s going to find his first love. This story is different from the first story because both Sarah and Alex even though their feelings for each other are the same both are scared they will be rejected by the other. So their passion is slower to build but just as special and magical when it happens.
Unsettled Scores by Kel O’Connor
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This the 2nd book in the DAG Team series. This is a Romantic Suspense novel and is 215 pages in length. This story follows Amy and Hugh. This story will leave you on the edge of your seat as Amy fights to seek revenge for her sister’s death that ultimately drove a wedge between her and her family. The last 3 years after her sister’s death left her numb, but luckily her job allows her to work out some of her feelings. Hugh needs to find out how/why drugs are being smuggled into the Bainbridge family’s charity. For Amy, this is two birds, one stone. Get information that Hugh needs and take out the drug dealer who killed her sister. Except for the sparks that fly between her and Hugh. These two are probably my most favorite couple.
Swindler’s Revenge by Ellen Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is not my first book by this author but it is one of my favorites yet. One of the things I most enjoy about this author and her books is the fact that they are well written and her use of details make her stories realistic. I enjoyed being pulled into this story by the suspense and the great characters. I found them to be connectable and they made the story engaging. This is a fast paced story about a hunt for a fugitive who just happens to be someone you know and what happens if you leap before you look. Karina is back in another crime stopper story. This time the hunt has to do with Mike which she hasn’t seen since their split. Before she realizes it, she jumps in with both feet and ignores the dangers. But will the dangers ignore her? How deep will she find herself? She is such a great character and what she brings to the story just keeps me coming back. I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend seeing what happens to Karina in her next crime mystery. You don’t want to miss it.
Review by @bjwagner
Spooked by a Suspicion by Risa Nyman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
While Spooked by a Suspicion is not advertised as a sequel, it follows Swallowed by a Secret. They could be read and enjoyed independently, but both are good books, so you should just read them. Despite this book being targeted to children readers (likely middle school age), I enjoyed it as an adult. I enjoyed the first book, so I was happy to hear there was a second book, so we could see more into Rocky’s life. This book centers around a difficult issue kids may encounter, but in a humorous way. Rocky’s mom drops the bomb that she is seeing someone new, and they plan to get married. Rocky didn’t even know they were officially dating, so this was a shock to him. Shortly after the announcement, strange things start to happen. Rocky is very imaginative, and comes to the conclusion his mom’s boyfriend is the cause of these things, and takes it upon himself to stop him. These things range from serious, a sports injury, to funny, being pooped on by a bird. Poor Rocky! We are led through a series of twists and turns on his summer vacation, and it teaches kids some life lessons in an entertaining way. I love the story and Risa Nyman’s style. The characters are all very fun and realistic, and can be enjoyed by all ages.
Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy
Journeys Through TimeSpace by James Talisman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
We immediately pick up where book one left off. We follow all of our different locations and leaders but this one seemed to follow Thomas’s hatred for Matt and his family more.
Matt, Julia and Dan are training to get the traveling through time and space absolutely correct. While Thomas wants a much more sinister end.
The twist that happens at about halfway through this book changes everything for everyone. Although they may not like each other they must work together.
Reviewed by @michellerenee6590
View all my reviews
Tainted by Marsha R West
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Love when new authors land in my lap. This book was a fun find and I loved how the author pulled me in immediately. If you are looking for a nicely descriptive story with romance and suspense this book will be a perfect fit. Enjoyed every page and hope to read more from this author soon.
Reviewed by @heatherlovelace
View all my reviews
Caught by Him by Tammy Mannersly
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a very quick and enjoyable read for me. Moved quickly. Sometimes you want a book you can anticipate the next move. I enjoy how the author pulled this story together. It was a sweet book and a perfect romance for a lazy afternoon.
Reviewed by @heatherlovelace
View all my reviews
Raven Woman’s Tavern by Laura Koerber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Definitely worth buying, this book ends up making you think about what’s life really about. It’s a little weird but the characters are so wonderfully built up and eclectic that you feel like your in futuristic community. Rachel, the tavern owner; Charlie, and his cats; Val, and all the others. The community sounds like a run down town after everything is destroyed by companies pulling out. The description of the town by the Raven is fantastic. Kind of a bird’s eve view. It truly is a good book that you have to read. Too good to describe in words, you have to experience it. Highly recommend!!!!
