BECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa Rica by Aviva Vaughn – Review by Elena Tabacaru

BECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa RicaBECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa Rica by Aviva Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Part 5 of Soren’s journey. It’s my first book though and somehow I am happy that I didn’t read the others because I liked Soren right from the beginning and if Angela was right for him in my eyes I would have had a hard time to warm up to Elena. But that is just a subjective opinion. I don’t take easily to trading main characters and from my understanding Angela is part of Soren’s life for at least 3 of the other parts.

That being said, if this is your first book from the series, don’t worry of not understanding or missing important bits. We still get an inside about Soren’s life before Costa Rica. And frankly, Soren grows and develops so much in this book, it’s a beautiful process to watch. And Elena, I just like her. And not because we have the same name and speak the same language:)) she is strong, talented and so down to earth, keeping those walls around her tall but I completely understand it and good for her that she does. Although Soren on paper is quite the catch and many would throw themselves at him I like that he wonders why Elena chose him. That woman is keeping him on his toes!! Curious to see what part 6 will bring but I really hope he learned from his mistakes and he will make the right choice.

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Small Town Hero by Kim Koby – Review by Michelle Austin

Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides, #1)Small Town Hero by Kim Koby
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Small Town Hero was a good 4 star read and book one in the Small Town Brides series.

Rebecca walks in on her fiance and best friend in bed, in shock she finds herself in her car driving for hours. When she stops for a rest her car ends up breaking down, now she is stranded in a town 10 hours away from home.

Ryan meets Rebecca when he wakes her up in her car. There is something about her that draws him in. When she discovers her car is broke down he offers to help her. When they find that the hotel is under construction, Ryan offers his home to Rebecca. These two get to know each other and grow closer as the days pass.

What will happen when Rebecca’s car is fixed and she goes home? Can they have a long distance relationship?

The secondary characters were good and I loved Chief. There’s some twists and a jealous ex. I liked Rebecca and the gift she was saving for her future husband, she has a lot to deal with and finding Ryan was great timing. Ryan was great, he had some heartbreak in the past. Rebecca was a refreshing new start for him to pursue. I found myself wanting more in certain areas, things seemed a little rushed. I liked how things came together in the end but I would have liked to see more, it felt like it stopped abruptly with no epilogue. I do however look forward to reading more from this series, would like to read about Ryan’s brothers and sister.

Reviewed by @mab54615

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Repressed: An Ash Park Novel (Volume 3) by Meghan O’Flynn – Review by Shannon Fowler

Repressed (Ash Park, #3)Repressed by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

O.M.G. This book is INTENSE. Frightening, scary, gruesome, and intense. I think I was holding my breath through the last half of the book. I know my heart was on edge! I think this one is my favorite of this series so far!

O’Flynn is a sick and twisted kind of author! Which is becoming my favorite kind of author!
This book included our favorite characters from the first two Ash Park novels, Detectives Petrosky and Morrison and DA Shannon Taylor who had married Morrison in the last book. This story has our team hunting for a pedophile, a murderer and a kidnapper. What are the chances it’s the same person? What are the chances that it’s someone they know?

There are a lot of “repressed” memories and feelings in this story. (Wow what a great title!) I am surprised there weren’t more bad guys!

“Perhaps one day the other memories would fade as the good in life oozed in to the crowd out the tragedy.”

I definitely recommend this story but advise that starting with book one will help you understand the characters feelings and personalities that much more.

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Imperfect Heart: Combat Hearts #4 by Tarina Deaton – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Imperfect Heart (Combat Hearts Book 4)Imperfect Heart by Tarina Deaton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in this series, I enjoyed it just as much as the other books in this series. The one thing I enjoy about this author is her ability to pull me in right from the beginning and this one is no different. She made me feel as if I was right there with Zoe and Tim. They are characters that made me laugh in parts and compassion in the other. The chemistry between these two is strong and I found myself hoping they would find their HEA. I highly recommend reading their story!

 

Review by @bjwagner

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Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3) by Desiree Lafawn – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3)Jesse by Desiree Lafawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third book in this series, it is my favorite yet so far in this series. This is a story about Jesse and Harlow. They are relatable and connectable. They took me on an emotional roller coaster of various emotions as well as some twists and turns, I didn’t see coming. Their chemistry together is wow! I found myself wanting them to find their HEA. You have to read to find out! This is a fast, engaging story that I couldn’t put down. I highly recommend this book, a must read!

 

Review by @bjwagner

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Beckoned, Part 5: Adrift in Costa Rica (Beckoned Series book 5) by Aviva Vaughn – Review by Ashleigh Harrington

BECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa RicaBECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa Rica by Aviva Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beckoned by Aviva Vaughn is the fifth part in her new serial that I just can’t get enough of. Throughout the series, I became hooked and made it so hard to put down until the very end. Beckoned is all about finding yourself and finding someone who understands and embraces the journey that you are on. Following the stories of Soren Lund and Elena Sol, you get a front row seat to a passion that can’t be tamed no matter the miles that separate these two. Soren is a man that who is trying to find his way in the world, and trying to right his world that was tilted on its axis from a heartbreak. In his journey he finds himself in a village in Costa Rica, where he meets Elena. Elena is so full of life, living on the edge as a professional surfer. While Costa Rica has always been her home she has always been a woman willing to do and go wherever to make her dreams a reality. Elena is a strong, beautiful woman, who has been hurt in the past and guards her heart against further pain. There is something about Soren that draws Elena in, but she is worried that he will attempt to change her or hurt her. Soren finds that he can’t get Elena out of his head, and is willing to take a leap of faith letting her in. The more that these two get to know each other the more that parting seems to be the worst thing. The sparks that fly between these two will leave you on the edge of your seat and attempting to catch your breath. Vaughn is a newer to me author but I am so happy that I picked this series up. I have loved every book so far and can’t wait to see how it will continue. While each of these books could be read as a single quickie read, I recommend reading them all in order as the characters will overlap and interact throughout each book. If you are looking for a great read, from a superb author, than this is one that you need to pick up today!

Reviewed by @toxikcupkake26

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Love, Christmas – Movies You Love (The Holiday Series Book 2) Anthology – Review by Lisa Helmick

Love, Christmas - Movies You Love (The Holiday Series Book 2)Love, Christmas – Movies You Love by Mimi Barbour
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Love, Christmas – Movies You Love ( The Holiday Series Book 2)
By Mimi Barbour and Leanne Banks
Rated 4 stars

Filled with stories by these authors as well.: Joan Reeves, Mona Risk, Rebecca York, Jacquie Biggar, Alicia Street, Nancy Radke, Katy Walters, Stephanie Queen, Aileen Fish, Rachelle Ayala, Dani Haviland, Traci Hall, Taylor Lee, Donna Fasano, Cynthia Cooke, Susan Jean Ricci, Tamara Ferguson, Suzanne Jenkins, Natalie Ann, Ev Bishop, Alyssa Bailey, Stacy Eaton, Jen Talty, Melinda De Ross
Rated 4 stars

This is a nice collection of stories that have a couple themes running through them all. Christmas and Christmas Movies. If you enjoy either of those or both….this could be the collection for you. Here is just a small random selection of the stories.

Jingle With my Princess
By Mona Risk

Talk about instant attraction! Wow! I loved how open Charlene is…not afraid to shower him with affection. Very nice! Problem is she live most of her life across the pond. He in the US. How can they come together?
Scott has been burned before by a princess but there is just something about Princess Charlene that he can’t resist. Too bad he brought his current lover along on the business trip. Not only that but he is there to help his ex-fiancé and her husband (a Prince) who stole her from him. Now what to do? Can he put his feelings aside for his Ex? Can he move forward?

Can She Get Home for Christmas
by Rebecca York

On a snowy night all it took was a small accident and Samantha’s night was changed forever. This is a quick read with a ton of action. With a backdrop themes of danger and christmas. This kept my interest.

Miracle on Christmas Tree Street
By Alicia Street

Well this is just an enjoyable story! I loved all of it. It’s sweet and has the mystery of Christmas. Even though it’s a short story I didn’t feel rushed or cheated while reading. I didn’t feel thrown into the middle of a story. This has a nice beginning middle and end. I chuckled at the name of Hannah’s business partner….very creative!

The Holiday (Christmas) by Nancy Radke

House swapping! What a neat idea for a story! That leaves all kinds of possibilities available. This one involved smugglers, and stalker and a sunken sailboat. That made the story lively and interesting.

Love Letters from a Snowman
By Katy Walters

This is a sweet sweet story. It’s set back in the time of Lords, Barons and Governess’. Surprisingly there was a bit of magic back then as well. This started off with a bang. I loved all the characters and the story flowed very nicely. Definitely a good read.

The Polar Express by Dani Haviland

This is a typical story of a couple stuck in a cabin. But this has the added twist of being in Alaska! The characters were sweet and the story was good. My only issue was I felt the relationship was rushed. It seemed to go from hate to friendship to relationship (which is the right order) but most of the story was the first two then the last was after 1 kiss. Then the end. I know I know short story so things happen faster. Anyway I enjoyed the meeting and the information of living where she does with just the dogs.

The Ref-er-ee by Taylor Lee

Troubled marriage, troubles teen and an possibly absent Christmas. Aly and Logan have moves up in the world with the security business. While business boomed with relationship went downhill. Dylan/Nick uses the Christmas season to get himself some presents….by stealing them. This Christmas will change for the Starr family and Dylan.

This is a nice story that seemed complete. Good characters and teenagers that seems so realistic. Not to mention the troubled marriage…losing feelings over the year I’m sure happens more than not.

Boyfriends Wanted for Christmas
By Melinda De Ross

Ha haha! This story is a great one! Poor Andrea is looking for a boyfriend for Christmas. Oh and she only has 7 days to find one! Let’s just say hilarity ensues.
This story flows very nicely and easily kept my interest. There is funny times along with sweet times. The characters were great! Her parents included.
This one is a favorite.

Review by @lisahelmickMi
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Say When (A Cedarville Novel Book 9) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Lisa Helmick

Say When (A Cedarville Novel Book 9)Say When by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Say When (A Cedarville Novel Book 9)
By Bree Kraemer
Rated 5 stars

This is a sweet (play on words) story. The book is good. The characters have growth and are fun to read. Dani is a baker who is funny, smart, curvy and afraid to talk to men. She doesn’t have friends as she only bakes and works her nine to five job. I think her life might be changing.
Patrick is a chef at Dockside. He is adorable and sexy. He has one vice and that’s the cupcakes delivered to the restaurant every morning. Patrick’s love of her cupcakes is outrageous! I agree with Dani…he might need to join a gym if he doesn’t restrict himself.

This series has a large cast. It’s nice to touch base with them when a new book is released. Sabrina who we saw in the last couple books is a bartender with a no nonsense attitude. I can’t wait to see if she will get her story. It should be fun to read.

This is a good series. Nothing much happened here just a good old romantic story full of sweetness….in more ways than one. Well let me rephrase..there is a lot of relationship problems discussed from jealousy to being afraid to “be honest” with your significant other. Great advice was given throughout the book to all parties.

Review by @lisahelmick
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Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3) by Desiree LaFawn – Review by Lisa Helmick

Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3)Jesse by Desiree Lafawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3)
By Desiree LaFawn
Rated 5 stars

What a sweet story with a side of danger! I loved it! The story was so good and one with stuff i didn’t see coming. The characters I fall in love every time. The writing is so easy and effortless. I feel like these are my best friends while reading.

I loved Jesse. He is so unassuming and reliable. He just snuck up on me and the next thing….BAM! Here is a sweet sexy guy who cooks and makes DESSERT! What woman wouldn’t love that! When he made dinner for her and was so disappointed he forgot an ingredient??? Just because he wanted it perfect for her! So cute!

Harlow is a smart tough cookie. She has risen from the ashes and is moving forward. I enjoyed her excitement when she got the job. Her speech to Jesse at his house? So so incredibly amazing. Those are just a few of my fav Harlow moments. Her son JJ is a complete asset to the story. Or maybe I should say scene stealer! He is adorable and I laughed at his antics!

One of my favorite things about this authors writing…her weaving. She weaves the characters from previous books into the new story so flawlessly. There is no disconnect from one character to another. They are all growing and laughing and loving as the series moves along.

On that note…it was so lovely to see all the previous characters in the series. Dino….man he is so stiff but he has that other side of him. It’s great to see him to continually grow. Also loved seeing Beck and I didn’t realize Jesse’s bar was where he met Regina! Loved that connection!

Actually all these characters are a treasure and I am pleased to be able to hang out with them.

Review by @lisahelmick
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Say When (A Cedarville Novel) By: Bree Kraemer – Review by Laura Furuta

Say When (A Cedarville Novel Book 9)Say When by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Say When (A Cedarville Novel Book 9)
By: Bree Kraemer
5 out of 5 stars

The story Say When (A Cedarville Novel Book 9) by Bree Kraemer is a contemporary romance book. It is a story that had my attention from the very beginning and that I didn’t want to put it down until I had finished the final page. It is a wonderful story that I loved reading. I loved reading about that characters of Dani and Patrick. Dani is a woman who loves to bake. Her goal in life is the run her own bakery and she is working to save money in order to make her dream come true. She also is a woman who has a fear that can be overwhelming at times. Patrick is a man that loves the cupcakes that Dani brings in to where he works. He has no qualms about eating them instead of selling them to customers. When he finds out about Dani’s fear he takes it upon himself to offer her his assistance. That these two find each other attractive is undeniable. They can’t stop thinking about each other however they are not vocalizing the way they feel about each other to each other. Will Patrick be able to help Dani conquer her fear? Will these two finally tell each other the way they truly feel about each other? The chemistry is there and those around them can see they are in love. Will these two find happiness and an HEA? Read this book to find out. When reading about Dani and her cupcakes Patrick makes them sound so good I wanted to try them. I love that Dani is someone who is working towards the dream she has and is willing to take a chance to make it come true. She is gorgeous, funny, and smart. I also loved how Patrick is a caring and compassionate man to help Dani. Both Patrick and Dani are characters that I grew to love with each chapter that I read. This is another amazing story in a series that I have loved since reading the first book. I like that some of the other characters are brought forward in each book and that you get to find out what they are up to. You feel like they are friends you are checking in with. This story is wonderfully written and one I would highly recommend reading.

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Jesse (Glass City Hearts) By Desiree Lafawn – Review by Laura Furuta

Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3)Jesse by Desiree Lafawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3)
By: Desiree Lafawn
5 out of 5 stars

The story Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3) by Desiree Lafawn is a contemporary romance book. There is a bit of mystery and suspense included. It is a story that hooked me in from the very beginning and I didn’t want to put it down until I had read the final page. I loved reading about the characters of Jesse and Harlow. Jesse is the manager at the bar his father owns. He has been trying to successfully run the bar even with the problems that he has with family. Jesse’s first love is to bake. Relationships and intimacy are a mystery to him. Harlow is a woman who is good with mechanical things. Give her something electronic to fix or play with and you find that she is very capable. Love and relationships not so much. She is someone who needs a job in order to take care of her son who she adores. When Harlow and Jesse meet a connection seems to form between them. Jesse is a good judge of character and Harlow is someone he wants to help. Will Jesse and Harlow act on their attraction to each other? Will they find happiness together? Read this book to find out. There are other characters that make an appearance in the story that have been brought forward from previous books in the series. I love when this happens as you get to learn what they have been doing since last you read of them. It is like checking in with friends. I also enjoyed the way that they interacted with Jesse and Harlow. There are “Aww” moments in this story and also scenes that had me with a smile on my face or laughing out loud. This is a wonderfully written story with amazing characters. I highly recommend reading it.

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Imperfect Heart (Combat Hearts) By Tarina Deaton – Review by Laura Furuta

Imperfect Heart (Combat Hearts Book 4)Imperfect Heart by Tarina Deaton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Imperfect Heart (Combat Hearts Book 4)
By: Tarina Deaton
5 out of 5 stars

The story Imperfect Heart (Combat Hearts Book 4) by Tarina Deaton is an amazing romance book that I loved reading. It hooked me in from the very beginning and I didn’t want to put it down until I had read the final page. I loved reading about the characters of Zoe Acevedo and Tim Larken. I found Zoe to be a brave and independent person as she is going to open her own bookstore. As I love books it is a place that I would visit. She is also smart, determined, and passionate. That passion is for books but also for Tim. Tim is a police officer. He does his job well and helps others. He is helping Zoe out the first time he sees her. He finds himself unable to stop thinking of her. He is intrigued by her. She is attracted to him as well. There is chemistry between them and they soon find themselves giving in to the passion and desire that has been sparked between them. Zoe still has doubts and fears about her business. Tim is someone who encourages her and is behind what she is doing. Will Zoe’s business be a success? Will Tim and Zoe find themselves in a relationship? Sometimes communication becomes strained. Will they make sure that each one knows how the other feels? Will they find happiness together? Read this book to find out. There are other characters that I enjoyed reading about in this story. There is a lot of bantering back and forth between Zoe and Tim as well as the other characters. It is quite humorous at times. Had me with a smile on my face and laughing out loud. There are also some steamy scenes included which will make the temperature in the room rise. Zoe and Tim are characters that I grew to love with each chapter that I read. This story is wonderfully written and one that I highly recommend reading.

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Born to Fight (Can’t Resist You) By Brittany Anne – Review by Laura Furuta

Born to Fight (Can't Resist You, #1)Born to Fight by Brittany Anne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Born to Fight (Can’t Resist You Book 1)
By: Brittany Anne
5 out of 5 stars

The story Born to Fight (Can’t Resist You Book 1) by Brittany Anne is a military romance book. It is a story that caught my attention from the very beginning and I found myself not able to put it down until I had finished it. It is a story that has moments of suspense that had me wondering what was going to happen next. I loved reading about the characters of Hunter Kane and Rain. Hunter is a resistance fighter. That is what he has always been trained to be. He has never thought of being anything or anyone else. That is until he meets Rain. Rain is a woman in hiding. She is also caring and compassionate as when Hunter needs her help despite knowing nothing about him she takes care of him. Hunter is finding that Rain is changing the plans that he once had no question of. Rain is a woman that has a secret. When and if that secret is revealed will it spell the end for Rain and Hunter? The Resistance opposes the UNR, a group that she shown themselves to not value lives and have their own agenda. On a mission that will have the Resistance fighting the UNR who will prevail? Will the Resistance meet its match and meet their end? What will happen with Hunter and Rain? Will they find themselves planning their future together? Read this book to find out. The emotions and sparks between Hunter and Rain are high and the way that they kiss is electric. I grew to love them with each chapter that I read and I was rooting for them. I wanted them to be happy. I enjoyed reading about the background information that is given and also about the other characters that you are introduced to. This is a wonderfully written story with amazing characters. It is a book that I would recommend reading.

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Painting Kuwait Violet by Pamela Q. Fernandes – Review by Sue Kemp

Painting Kuwait VioletPainting Kuwait Violet by Pamela Q. Fernandes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Painting Kuwait Violet
By Pamela Q. Fernandes

Painting Kuwait Violet is a wonderful story by Pamela Q. Fernandes. This is the first book I have read by this author and I have to say I not only liked the book but the writing style of the author. Violet is a much-educated young lady. But after the death of her beloved father, her family is now in monetary crisis. Her aunt gives her information on being a maid overseas and also outlined the strict obligations that comes with the role. Violet sees no other way to help her family out of the crisis they are in but to become a maid. Violets mother is not happy that her educated daughter is even thinking of being a maid and voices her worries of what other people will think of this matter. Violet tells me mother that this is only for two years and since she can’t find a job at home she has no other choice. After all its only for two years, right? The question is will Violet be able to cope being a maid in a strange country? And will she become a victim of Sabah Dashti, her sponsor?

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Painting Kuwait Violet by Pamela Q Fernandes – Review by Tracy Wilkin

Painting Kuwait VioletPainting Kuwait Violet by Pamela Q. Fernandes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Painting Kuwait Violet is a stunning and descriptive depiction of the way that women are treated in modern day society, and the struggles they have each and every day. Simple things like going to school is a luxury many never experience. This powerful novel is extraordinarily written by Pamela Q Fernandes. It was difficult to read, at times, but the author demonstrated respect, compassion and clarity in her writing.

In a world where women are not treated equally or respectfully, Violet has learnt that she has little value as a human and must serve a purpose, or be deemed of no use, which is something she does not want. Traumatic times were experienced by Violet, and even though many tried, she could not be broken. A little scarred and a lot battered, but still holding it together.

Pamela Q. Fernandes penned a brutally honest and deeply moving tale that left quite an impact on me as a reader. It made me thankful that I grew up free and where my opinion and feelings mattered. This author makes you think and appreciate all that you have and be forever grateful for all the women who fought against adversity, paving the way for women to live freely and safely and use our voices and be heard. 4 stars.

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Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3) by Desiree Lafawn – Review by Jenni Bishop

Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3)Jesse by Desiree Lafawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3) by Desiree Lafawn ​is the third book in the ​Glass City Hearts​ series and can be read as a standalone but I would read the books in order to understand the supporting characters. I love this family of misfits and how they all fit together and how they each have the others back. There is a twist that you never would have seen coming. I loved the crazy humor and I laughed and cried as our unassuming hero found something he wasn’t looking for. I love Desiree’s writing and always found it easy to get lost in her words and these characters and found it was over before I wanted it to be. It is a contemporary romance with an engaging storyline and amazing chemistry. It is also full of suspense and lets not forget our hero who is endearing and funny and will make your heart melt. This is a second chance story that should not be missed.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Imperfect Heart (Combat Hearts Book 4) by Tarina Deaton – Review by Jenni Bishop

Imperfect Heart (Combat Hearts Book 4)Imperfect Heart by Tarina Deaton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Imperfect Heart (Combat Hearts Book 4) by Tarina Deaton ​is the fourth book in the Combat Hearts series, but can be read as a standalone. Imperfect Heart is a contemporary romance with an engaging storyline and amazing chemistry. It is also full of suspense and intrigue, laughter and love and sadness that pulls you into the story and tugs on your heart. I laughed out loud at Zoe’s antics and situations she found herself in and was so drawn to the characters that I was unable to put the book down, I had to read it all in one sitting. Lets not forget our male hero who is endearing and funny and will make your heart melt. This is one story that should not be missed.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Beckoned Part 5: Adrift in Costa Rica By Aviva Vaughn – Review By Melissa Agena

BECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa RicaBECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa Rica by Aviva Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a great way to wrap up a series! Beckoned – Adrift in Costa Rica is book 5 in the series which is written by Aviva Vaughn. Although this book can be read as a standalone I would highly suggest you read the other 4 books because then you can fully understand Soren’s character. Soren was a main love interest in the other books and when it came down to it, Soren was a lone man. His character was full of regimen and planning. He was born as the heir to the family financial business. However, it becomes quite obvious that this life that was meticulously planned out for him is exactly what he was looking for. So what does anyone that needs a break to find out who they really are do? They go to Costa Rica to find themselves! There Soren encounters new people and a new culture. What he doesn’t expect is Elena and everything else that he thought was him, wasn’t. It’s hard enough trying to find yourself but when you add the unexpected everything finds a way to become part of the new you. Ms. Vaughn has done a great job with telling Soren’s story and closing a chapter, so to speak, with the series. This character was one of those that you would always say, “what happened to him?” I’m glad this book came out to answer my questions about the character and how his story ended. I loved the author’s writing style and can’t wait to read more from her!

Review by @vegasdaisie

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Beckoned, Part 5: Adrift in Costa Rica by Aviva Vaughn – Review by Michelle Austin

BECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa RicaBECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa Rica by Aviva Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Beckoned was a good 4 star read and part five in the “Beckoned” series.

We start with Soren going to see Angela to solidify in his heart that they won’t have a future together. Angela is involved with Kieran and very happy.

Soren ends up moving to Costa Rica to start over. He decides to try new things like learning how to surf. He ends up meeting Elena and they hit if off. But, Elena has some secrets of her own. Can Elena and Soren have something or will secrets get in the way?

Elena was a strong independent character, who tries to protect her heart. When she met Soren the sparks flew. We do get some hot and steamy scenes from these two. I love the playlist and recipes, once I started I didn’t want to stop until I was done. The secondary characters were great and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. Aviva Vaughn pulls you right in with her writing and the details are great. If your looking for a great series to read, I highly suggest this one.

Reviewed by @mab54615

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LOVE, CHRISTMAS 2 – MOVIES YOU LOVE ANTHOLOGY~ Review by Liz Vrchota

Love, Christmas - Movies You Love (The Holiday Series Book 2)Love, Christmas – Movies You Love by Mimi Barbour
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love Christmas:2- Movies You Love

It is that time of year! We get to pull out the cozy blankets and warm up by the fires with a good book. These novels are the perfect ones to do so with! I haven’t had the pleasure of reading every single one just yet but look forward to doing so as the season continues to unfold. I have however read several already and just had to come leave a little review to start because, well there is 26 stories guys! I won’t get this finished till almost in time for the season to finish and I want everyone to go get this before the Holidays are too close to being over so we all can enjoy!

With all that said… This was such an imaginative spin on your favorite Holiday movies. There is 26 stories by 26 different authors. Each author has chosen one and fine tuned it into a modern way that will be sure to keep you entertained well throughout the season. There is something for everyone, from “It’s A Wonderful Life” to “A Charlie Brown Christmas”.

Right now I am reading “Love, Actually” (By the Sea) which is written by Traci Hall. She was a new author to me and I am loving it. “Love Actually” is one of my favorite Holiday movies so I was excited to see that was one of the movies that was used as an inspiration. I have also enjoyed several other stories from authors that I have previously read before, like Tamara Ferguson, Mimi Barbour, and Stephanie Queen. I can’t wait to find out what else is in store for the rest of the novels to come, and I just might have to re-read a few of those I have finished! Thanks for the wonderful reads ladies! Happy Holiday’s!

Books and authors featured:

A Wonderful Life By: Mimi Barbour

A Royal White Christmas By: Leanne Banks

Brianna’s Season For Miracles By: Joan Reeves

Jingle With My Princess By: Mona Risk

Can She Get Home For Christmas By: Rebecca York

Mistletoe Inn By: Jacquie Biggar

A Miracle On Christmas Tree Street By: Alicia Street

The Holiday (Christmas) By: Nancy Radke

Love Letters From A Snowman Katy Walters

Holiday Affair By: Stephanie Queen

Almost Christmas in Connecticut By: Aileen Fish

A Christmas Creek Carol By: Rachelle Ayala

The Polar XPress By: Dani Haviland

Love Actually (By The Sea) By: Traci E. Hall

The Ref-er-ee By: Taylor Lee

Her Mr. Miracle By: Donna Fasano

A Christmas to Remember By: Cynthia Cooke

A Joyous Holiday Inn By: Susan Jean Ricci

Two Hearts Home for Christmas By: Tamara Ferguson

Christmas With the Clouds By: Suzanne Jenkins

How Gavin Stole Christmas By: Natalie Ann

A Sharla Brown Christmas By: Ev Bishop

In the Spirit of Christmas By: Alyssa Bailey

Finding Love on Christmas Vacation By: Stacy Eaton

A Christmas Getaway By: Jen Talty

Boyfriend Wanted for Christmas By: Melinda De Ross

Review by @lizaileen
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Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides book 1) by Kim Koby – Review by Lyndsey Fairley

Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides, #1)Small Town Hero by Kim Koby
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides book 1) by Kim Koby
4 stars

This was my first read by this author and while it was a quick read, i was drawn in from beginning to end. You get some good character development along with a great story.
Rebecca is engaged until she walks into his home and finds him with her best friend. She does what anyone else would do, she runs, but doesn’t expect to drive for 10 hours from New Jersey to Tennessee. When her car breaks down and a nice man named Ryan offers his help and a place to stay, while reluctant, Rebecca takes him up on his offer.
I really enjoyed this sweet, but quick story. Cant wait to read more in this series.
@lyndseyfairley

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Say When (A Cedarville Novel Book 9) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Debi Kircher

Say When (A Cedarville Novel Book 9)Say When by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Say When (A Cedarville Novel Book 9) by Bree Kraemer

5 Stars

Cedarville is one of my favorite places to visit, even if only for a short time while I’m reading..Another home run from this author who has already placed herself firmly on my favorite authors list.

This one was sweet, and although our main characters drove me insane with their lack of communication and just assuming they knew what the other was thinking, I still completely enjoyed every word in this story.

This story dealt with insecurities that a person just has naturally and it was nice for a change to not have some life altering secret floating around that caused this insecurity, and it was nice as well that while getting through this insecurity a person finds out just how strong they really are. I loved Dani, even though at times I had to remind myself how old she was because in many places she seemed much younger, I still absolutely loved who she became and how she got there in this story. Then there was Patrick…sigh…there’s not a lot I can say about him except that I fell in love with him immediately.

For such a short story it never felt rushed and was a perfect addition to the Cedarville novels…I’ve said it before and will say it again…when this series is complete I will be lining them all up on my kindle on a cold ugly weekend and reading them one right after the other.

Loved It!!

Review by @debikircher

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Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides, #1) by Kim Koby – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides, #1)Small Town Hero by Kim Koby
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Small Town Hero
Small Town Brides
Book 1
By Kim Koby
☆☆☆☆☆
Beautiful Romance story.

Rebecca wants to be the pure bride. So no sleeping around till she marries. She thought she had found her true prince. When she comes home and finds him and her best friend in bed together. She gets in her car and drives, until she can figure out what her next move should be. Breaking down 10 hours later in Tennessee, is not what she had planned. But there she is!

Ryan is a firefighter and has had his heart broken. But his heart is still on his sleeve. Finding a stranded beautiful lady, he helps her out. That’s just the beginning of this beautiful love story.

Kim Koby has brought HEA back in this story. I love her characters and the way she made her book come to life. While this is a short story, it’s content is loaded with real to life event’s. I can’t wait to read book 2 in this series. This book is also a safe read for those teen girls. I think they would enjoy it as well.

Review @ Cinful

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New Bloom (Bloom Duet Book 1) By A.E.Gamrat – Review By Stacey Baxter

New BloomNew Bloom by A.E. Gamrat
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Firstly i highly recommend reading this book first if not you will get lost! Oh wow what a amazing novel it had me glued to the pages i couldn’t pull my eye’s away i was completely captivated by the storyline. The storyline is brilliant and the author done an awesome job bringing the characters to life and write about real life struggles with so much depth and emotion. I will warn you it ends on a cliffhanger and leaves you with so many unanswered questions….enjoy!

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Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides Book 1) by Kim Koby – Review by Sunday Barnaby

Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides, #1)Small Town Hero by Kim Koby
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Small Town Hero by Kim Koby
Four Stars

Small Town Hero is the first book in the Small Town Brides series by Kim Koby. This is the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to reading more. I loved the easy flow and the lite hearted smooth flow of this romance. The witty banter held my attention from beginning to end. Rebecca and Ryan have great chemistry, even though they try to fight the attraction because they were both on the losing end of relationships. The story is sweet and predictable, but it just made me feel good reading it. It was a great change of pace from some of the darker romances out there and I look forward to reading more of this series in the future.

Reviewed by @sunbarn

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Across From You by Amabel Daniels – Review by Maura Harper

Across From YouAcross From You by Amabel Daniels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is one of those stories that I started highlighting funny lines and then realized I would be highlighting a lot so I just sat back and enjoyed the story.

Here are a few of my faves:

“Being on time had always been an unreachable talent, like completing Sudoku puzzles or avoiding chiropractic aid after yoga.”
“If functioning like Inspector Gadget was an Olympic sport, I’d nab gold – if I made it on time to the event, of course.”
“Premenopausal Elsa gifting us cold flashes instead of hot.”

Funny stuff.

This book is absolutely a rom-com full of lively banter, great friendships and romantic gestures. The lead female is definitely someone I would like to be friends with. She has quick wit, loyalty, and even though she’s late for everything else – she has an amazing work ethic. Then there is Jack. A hot cop who isn’t going to settle for a random hookup. He has values and trusts his instincts.

I really enjoyed this quick and easy romance and was able to read it cover to cover in a few hours. If you are looking for something to escape into, I absolutely recommend ACROSS FROM YOU!

Review by @mauraharper
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The Plot by Melinda De Ross – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

The PlotThe Plot by Melinda De Ross
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Star
The Plot By Melinda De Ross is a heart wrenching story ,that had my emotions all over the place. I had a hard time putting it down once I started reading I needed to see what happened next.There are some twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what happens next. Human Trafficking is very much real and very much a problem more than we probably realize. Yoko is a woman who was made apart of human trafficking,once she escapes she begins her plan for revenge against the man behind the organization. She’s a smart,strong determined woman who doesn’t see herself in the best light. She doesn’t believe in love,or happily ever after. She also feels like no one would want to love her once they find with past.In comes Markhe has his own business and he to has secrets. Can Mark be the one to help her heal? Does Yoko get her revenge?I highly this book,it’s a bit dark and gritty but definitely worth reading. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.

@ddaugh35

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Michael’s Heart by Lori Thomas Harrington – Review by Moriah Venable

Michael's HeartMichael’s Heart by Lori Thomas Harrington
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Michael’s Heart is a novel by Lori Thomas Harrington. This is my first novel by this author.

Colbie is a lover a music who is waiting for her big break in the music industry but until that day she writes little songs while taking care of her daughter.

After being involved in a terrible accident, Colbie finds herself on the other side where she meets Michael and has this feeling that he is the one she has been waiting for.

To soon, she goes back and wakes up in the hospital with a painful recover ahead. The experience gives her the inspiration to write songs but she still has feelings for Michael.

She meets another man who she is attracted but he feels cold. While she starts to have feeling for this man, is it possible to love two men at once?

Words cannot describe how much I love this novel. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this novel but it was beautifully written with a protagonist that I was lovely and amazing to read about her journey and her love of music.

I enjoy a good contemporary romance and this one will stay with me. Colbie was a strong characters whose love of music defined her and her heart was worn on her sleeve especially her time with Michael who I loved. He treated Colbie with such care and kindness.

I don’t want to give too much away. I highly suggest you read this novel. Definitely will feel a lot of emotions while reading.

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Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3) by Desiree Lafawn – Review by Gail Guerrero

Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3)Jesse by Desiree Lafawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jesse: Glass City Hearts Book Three Desiree Lafawn

Five Stars

This story was super cute. Jesse was the perfectly imperfect guy. We all want a man that isn’t afraid to hide his feelings. We want a partner in every way. Harlow is a single mom doing her best. It sucks that so many men and women end up raising children alone. I completely understand her emotional state. I really enjoyed the way the author wrote this story. The words had a happy flow to them. You could feel the characters emotions at the right moments. There truly are amazing people in this world and I liked that Harlow found her family. We all need people to stand behind us and next to us. I recommend this story for a light quick read that will give you warm feelings inside.
Reviewed by @gguerrero89

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Beckoned: Adrift in Costa Rica by Aviva Vaughn – Review by Michelle Mulvey

BECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa RicaBECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa Rica by Aviva Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beckoned, Adrift in Costa Rica is book 5 in the series by Aviva Vaughn and in my opinion, the best book in the series. I liked the previous books but there was something about Angela that I just couldn’t put my finger on. Her and Soren had chemistry and were cute together but, living so far away did a lot of damage. Not only the distance but, they were completely different time zones too!

Now here Soren is, he knows he has nothing holding him back. After seeing Angela one last time he decides to go somewhere tropical and hops a flight from California to Costa Rica.

I loved Soren In this book. He was funny, happy and acted like a carefree man his age. When he sees Elena and becomes great friends with her, I was rooting for them. Both Soren and Elena have skeletons in their closet and not to mention, Soren has a strict father who has his whole life planned out for him already across the globe. Will Soren and Elena be able to work past their issues and be together or is there to much stacked against them?

I believe Adrift in Costa Rica can be read as a stand alone but, it is much better to read in order to get a feel for the author and the back story.

Review by @xchellex

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