My Fake Vegas Boyfriend (Viva Las Vegas, #1) by Lori Sizemore – Review by Jenni Bishop

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My Fake Vegas Boyfriend (Viva Las Vegas, #1)My Fake Vegas Boyfriend by Lori Sizemore
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My Fake Vegas Boyfriend (Viva Las Vegas Book 1) Lori Sizemore is an emotionally charged story and the plot was well thought out even if I did want to strangle a few people, ok mainly the parents but still. Layla has always had to deal with verbal abuse which lead to destructive traits and lack of self worth even though her character is extremely strong and fierce she is still a broken woman. I really really hated to see her go through what she did but it was gratifying seeing her get through it all with someone finally on her side. Lori has done an exceptional job on this story and I absolutely loved it. My Fake Vegas Boyfriend is a powerful romance story that is so different from the norm but a welcome change in direction. I highly recommend this book!

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Behind the Manor Door Lies the Reckoning by Debbie Zello – Review by Angela Hayes

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4 Stars

 

Behind the Manor Door Lies the Reckoning by Debbie Zello is a historical romance that has a bit of unpredictability to the clever, multi-layered storyline- there is suspense, new beginnings, drama, secrets, tension, emotion, some upsetting scenes, and many surprising developments.

Permelia Shaw’s world turns upside down when she loses the love of her life. She decides to move south so she can start fresh, so she leaves Boston and heads to Virginia. Now this is a big step for her, because she is a staunch abolitionist, and even though she lives a wealthy lifestyle, she can’t see eye to eye with the southern way of life where slavery is very much the norm.

Montgomery Randall is a slave trader who had fled England because of the abolition of slavery- settling in Virginia in order to continue his ‘lifestyle’. There he meets Permelia (Meli) and sets his sights on her immediately- he has to have her! These two have such opposing viewpoints- is there any way that they can find a common ground, or compromise? Will Meli be able to maintain her stand, or will Montgomery and southern society break her down?

Anytime a new book of Ms. Zello’s pops up on my feed, it’s an instant ‘one-click’ for me. I know anything she writes is going to be something I will enjoy. I might have high expectations, but she hasn’t let me down yet!  As I started reading I realised that this book is a little different from the other books of Ms. Zello’s that I have read- but no less captivating. The story was unique and gives us lots of complex and intriguing characters and situations. The way she blended the historical elements with suspense, tension, turmoil, romance, and drama, was done exceedingly well- entirely realistic and believable. I definitely wasn’t expecting the storyline to evolve the way it did, that’s for sure! It’s easy to see that she put a lot of thought, planning, heart, and soul into the development of this book.

I am definitely looking forward to her next book!

 

Thank-you, Ms. Zello!

Whiskey Dick (Whiskey Dick #1) by Ryan Ringbloom – Review by Chantelle Smith

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Whiskey DickWhiskey Dick by Ryan Ringbloom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Whisky Dick is book 1 in the Whiskey Dick series from author Ryan Ringbloom. This my first read from this author and my oh my will I be looking out for more of her books. She has totally captivated me with this read and I can’t wait to see what else she does with this series.

This was a quick, exciting read that I couldn’t put down This book was compelling, intriguing and I really enjoyed this read I couldn’t put it down.

This book was romantic, steamy, entertaining and it brings two brilliant characters together.
This is a brilliant quick read that hits the spot. It’s sexy, sweet & funny. Our two main characters Jax and Paisley meet unexpectedly in a situation that has them both anxious and on edge but it puts them in a situation that makes them face an extra long journey together that sparks something in both of them even through all the ups and downs they go through.

Through all this, the sparks that fly between these two is undeniable and has blossomed in the most unique way. They both can be straightforward and know what they want and I think that’s what gives them a brilliant quality and connection in which you can’t help hoping they get their HEA!

I would love to read more of the secondary characters stories and also a Continuation story  to what happens with Jax and Paisley’s relationship after this read!

I thoroughly enjoyed this read and will continue to look out for more of Ryan Ringbloom’s books because she has shown how brilliant and great her characters and storyline continues not to disappoint.

Review by @tillytillzz

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Tightrope: Book 2 by Maddie Wade – Review by Jana Teppih

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Tightrope: Book 2Tightrope: Book 2 by Maddie Wade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tightrope Book 2 gives us a conclusion after Maddie Wade left us hanging in her Book 1! Do you yourself a favour – read the books in their order AND have the second one ready to go when you finish with the first one, I am saving you some anxiety! It is pure brilliance!
Tightrope makes us feel every single emotion one can think of, you will cry and laugh and despair and hope and hate and love and … it picks up where the writer left us at the end of Book 1 and you might think that yey, now everything is going to be fine and … four words I have for you, four words only – “false sense of security” … be prepared for anything, everything! It will rip out your heart, leave you bleeding and then, builds you up … You are welcome! AND dear Ms Wade, please give us more, a spin-off at least!

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Tightrope Book 1 by Maddie Wade – Review by Jana Teppih

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Tightrope Book 1Tightrope Book 1 by Maddie Wade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Maddie Wade has given us a gift – Tightrope – and she is leaving us hanging, with an epic cliffhanger!!! Please, for your own sake, get BOTH of the stories at the same time as you will need it! (I had the second book waiting when I started on the first one!) I fell in love with Maddie’s writing when I discovered her Fortis series and she has simply taken it up a notch in this Tightrope series/duet (well, you can see how I hope there will be a spin-off, another story, something….)
In this first book we get introduced to Dean and Lexi who are married but the marriage is no longer what it used to be … Dean is no longer what he used to be … and Lexi, she comes to the point when she needs to take a deep look inside and decide whether she will stay faithful to the memory of the man her husband used to be or will she need to rethink it all and take what she needs …
The story is told from two points of views and it makes it especially heart breaking and it takes us on such a crazy rollercoaster ending with a … cliffhanger …
I will leave you with the opening words of the story as they tell you everything you need to know to make yourself to pick up a copy:
“God will only give you what you can handle, or so they say! If that was the case, God in all his infinite wisdom must have thought I was a complete badass. That, or he had a piss poor sense of humour.”

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Truth Seer (Truth Seer Trilogy) by Kay L Moody – Review by Cynthia Ayala

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Truth Seer (Truth Seer Trilogy Book 1)Truth Seer by Kay L Moody
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A strong beginning to a series does a lot of analyzing through a strong narrative. Imara is a strong character because she can see the truth, but the truth is always in the eye of the beholder. And the world isn’t all black and white. The concept and narrative are interesting in that respect because the novel incorporates colors to reflect truth. This makes the novel interesting because often times the world is thought of in black and white when it’s not and just because someone lies doesn’t mean it’s bad. Many of the characters reflect this concept, creating conflict and tension and showing many levels of right versus wrong. It’s a great analytical piece because it explores the facets of what it means to be human. The world functions in the now, and people’s intentions, and emotions shift. This novel capitalizes on that and through Imara, the readers sees that vividly. This is a skill and a challenge for Imara because she sees truth versus like but not intention. White lies don’t mean the same thing to her as they do to others, a lie is a lie and in her opinion making her a very blunt character. She’s harsh and cold but not in an off-putting way. She’s blunt and hard because the world she sees while colorful is filtered by a façade. It’s a challenge for her which ultimately makes her likeable, but doesn’t limit her character development.

That’s part of what makes this novel special. The world is a complicated place, and while Imara’s vision would seem to make it less complicated it doesn’t. Her is so gray that the colors blind her from actually seeing intention. Ultimately this allows her to grow because she learns that not everything is black and white that people are defined more by their actions than anything else. This opens up a whole new world for her.

Overall the pace of the novel is slow. This group of friends is trying to navigate through catacombs filled with traps, but that is the entire novel nothing more happens story wise. So after a while it starts to feel like more of the same and really the only captivating part is the use of color and character development. Theirs lots of tension between the characters because of Imara’s ability which is ultimately the driving point of the novel.

Truth Seer is an interesting beginning to a new series despite it’s overall lack of plot development and slow pace because either offers insight into the human psyche.

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Abducted (Code Raven Series Book #2) by Lynda Filler – Review by Angela Hayes

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5 Stars

 

Abducted is the second book in the Code Raven series by Lynda Filler. As we have discovered in the previous book/s, this series centres around the Raven Group, which is a top-secret special ops team- and the series chronicles the action-packed missions they embark on. Even though each book is a ‘new’ adventure- there is a bigger picture being revealed- so I would recommend reading all the books in order to get the most out of your reading experience. This is my favourite of the series, so far- the story was action-paced and dramatic, with danger, abduction, intrigue, suspense, human trafficking, drug cartels, life and death situations, high stakes risk, covert ops, high-tech gadgets, camaraderie/team work- as well as showing the depths that some people will sink to in the pursuit of wealth and power.

I am really enjoying this series, which just seems to get better and better with each new instalment! The books are very quick and easy reads- but manages to pack a lot into a small space. I look forward to my next adventure with the Raven Group!

 

Thank you, Ms. Filler!

Brody (Default Distraction #1) by A. S. Roberts – Review by Julie Lounello

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Brody (Default Distraction #1)Brody by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brody by A. S. Roberts is a five star novel. This is the first installment of the Default Distraction series. Default Distraction is also the name of the band where Brody is the lead singer. He has it all, at least that’s how it seems on the outside. But all the money in the world can’t buy you happiness and contentment with your life. How is he supposed to keep on keeping on and pretending that life is great when he is miserable? He knows what will make him happy and he is out to secure that. When he meets Amy, randomly, he knows now that she is the one for him. Her life is upside down and she feels like nothing is going right. She knows this boy that she meets is not a good fit for her but something draws her to him anyway. Watching the two of them fight and work through hardships makes me believe anything is possible!

Review by @julie-lounello

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Plot Twist (Romance in Rehoboth #3) by K.L. Montgomery- Review by Samantha Scannell

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Plot Twist (Romance in Rehoboth #3)Plot Twist by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a funny and entertaining book. You have a girl who feels out of her element. The characters pull you in with a great romantic comedy! This book is the third in the series. The author never takes short cuts when it comes to make the reads fall in love with their writing style. The description and passion in the book pulls me into the passion of the characters. Feeling like I’m learning each one of them personally with smiles and laughter throughout. What a great read. Was a book that you don’t want to put down. It’s a good read and something you just wanna sit and read with a glass of wine like any good romantic comedy movie.

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Awakening Avery By Laurie Lewis – Review By Michelle Mulvey

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Awakening Avery (A Second Chance Romance #3)Awakening Avery by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Awakening Avery by Laurie Lewis was the complete package. I can honestly say this book had me hooked from page one.

Avery has written a few books and has recently lost her husband. Herself and her children have been devastated. She decides she needs to go spend the summer somewhere else to find herself. She ends up switching homes with another widow who she has seen many times before while on vacation.

Nice and simple right? Well the temporary switch is anything but simple. Gabriel is basically kicking his two daughters out of the house for the summer. Giving them a dose of tough love. He has sheltered them and they are both grown women who need to learn not to depend on Daddy.

Avery introduces Gabriel to an author’s books that she says was her mentor. Gabriel was hooked from the beginning. There are so many characters in this book and they all end up intertwined.

This really was a great read that will leave you have a happy, sweet feeling and it will also have you nearly in tears at times. A book you do not want to skip over.

 

Review by @xchellex

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The Blogger and The Hunk by Jane Matisse – Review by Sara Oxton

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The Blogger and the HunkThe Blogger and the Hunk by Jane Matisse
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Blogger and the Hunk by Jane Matisse a five-star read you will want to snuggle with. What a great debut novel, I really hope that this author keeps up the writing as I need more of her style in my life. This story may be similar to some others out there, but the author has taken a new spin and breathes life into the story, she makes it her own with blog posts at the start of each chapter and they all have great little quirks to them that make the story that much funnier. Penelope was a great character and I adored her behaviours she was a little crazy and quirky she was so prim and proper, and you couldn’t imagine her misbehaving then she goes wild and ends up stealing clothes, all of the little details made for such a great story that I just couldn’t put it down. Thank you Jane Matisse you have a great talent for writing and now you need to get back to the keys.

Review by @saraoxo

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Belleza and the Brute: A Modern-Day Retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Jane Matisse – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Belleza and the Brute: A Modern-Day Retelling of Beauty and the BeastBelleza and the Brute: A Modern-Day Retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Jane Matisse
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Belleza and the Brute is the first book I have read by Jane Matisse, but it wont be the last. I love retelling of classic stories, so when I saw this, I knew it was something I wanted to read. I love the story and characters, and the perfect balance between drama and romance. Elena Salazar plays the roll of “Beauty” but her life is not all magical unicorns and rainbows. Her parents died when she was young, leaving her to take care of her brother. She did the best she could, but he became addicted to gambling and she spent her life bailing him out of bad situations. When she got a phone call from her brother in the middle of the night, she was pissed, and that one phone call changed her life. He owed money to Tristan Mercier, and it couldnt be paid. In return for his pardon, Elena agrees to work for and live with Tristan for 6 months, while her brother goes to rehab, being paid for by Tristan.
Tristan, the “Beast,” is a successful businessman, owning one of the most popular clubs in the city. He was ready to call the cops on Adam, (Elena’s brother) for being a punk kid who gambled money he didnt have. That is until his sister comes to his rescue, and instantly twists up Tristan’s insides and life. He has sworn off love, after a tragic fire left him wounded and scarred, both inside and out. While he hired Elena, to simplify his work, and get his business paperwork in order, it seems her presence in his home causes disarray in his personal life. If only he can let go of his past, and forgive himself, he may once again, find happiness.

 

Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

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Desperately Seeking Sixty-Nine (The Green Room Chronicles #1) by J.D. Frettier – Review by Heather Bahm

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Desperately Seeking Sixty-Nine (The Green Room Chronicles #1)Desperately Seeking Sixty-Nine by J.D. Frettier
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Desperately Seeking Sixty-Nine, the first book in the Green Room Chronicles, is written by J.D. Frettier. This novella is hilariously and well written story, justly so as it was an easy and quick read. The theme of the book was fun, light and perfect for the cast of characters. I think this story was creative, refreshing and something different out there in the genre that has become over-saturated.

Reviewed by @hbahm

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Tightrope: Book 2 by Maddie Wade – Review by Heather Bahm

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Tightrope: Book 2Tightrope: Book 2 by Maddie Wade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tightrope: Book 2, by Maddie Wade, is the conclusion of Book 1. This author is truly a mastermind in her story creation and layout. This novel truly holds a bit of everything: allure, chemistry, disgust, anger, lust and more. As I read along following Lexi’s story and the path(s) embarked, it was beyond words on how to explain how fully the author captured the emotional swings. By the time I finished, I couldn’t believe what had transpired throughout Book 1 and Book 2. This story was amazing by the time I crested through the final chapters. Brilliant and not close to what I had anticipated when I began.

Reviewed by @hbahm

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Tightrope: Book 1 by Maddie Wade – Review by Heather Bahm

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Tightrope Book 1Tightrope Book 1 by Maddie Wade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tightrope: Book 1, by Maddie Wade, is a thrilling suspense. The author’s writing style feels eloquent and draws you into the story, page by page, to find yourself fully immersed into the story. The story was appealing after reading the synopsis, but what you get is much more in depth and suspenseful than anticipated. When is enough enough within a relationship and when does some hit their breaking point? This story encounters that in a way that is deliciously received with a hint of something darker rounding around one of the corners. This story was truly captivating.

Reviewed by @hbahm

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The Lily Trilogy by Vivian Winslow – Review by Angela Hayes

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5 Stars

 

The Lily Trilogy by Vivian Winslow is the enthralling story that introduces us to Lily Baron and sets us off on a journey full of emotion, love, loss, heartache, betrayal, adventure, sexual awakening, family dynamics, responsibility, drama, spice, sizzle, tension… and so much more. This box set contains the entire Lily Trilogy, which are also the first three books in the Gilded Flower Series (of trilogies).

 

The trilogy consists of:

-Gilded Lily (Book #1)

-Calla Lily (Book #2)

-Tiger Lily (Book #3)

 

I really enjoyed this trilogy, zooming through it all in only a matter of hours. It is so easy to read, and so easy to love everything about the it. Ms. Winslow has a real gift for storytelling- bringing us a well-developed, beautifully written, and polished piece of work. She has an easy, inviting, and sexy style that I never grow tired of reading.

As always, the character/s are beautifully and intricately crafted, complete with their own personalities, quirks and flaws.

A brilliant way to start the Gilded Flower Trilogies and I can’t wait to dive into Dahlia’s story next!

 

Thank you, Ms. Winslow!

She’s a Keeper!: Cockamamie Memoirs from a Hot Southern Mess by Lee St. John – Review by Jenni Bishop

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She's a Keeper!: Cockamamie Memoirs from a Hot Southern MessShe’s a Keeper!: Cockamamie Memoirs from a Hot Southern Mess by Lee St. John
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

She’s a Keeper by Lee St. John ​is a collection of short stories from the Lee that are funny and witty. I wasn’t sure what I was in for but you quickly learn that it is a complete surprise. It is a quick and easy read. Each chapter is the telling of old memories, real stories, observations and tales and will make you laugh.

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Blogger and the Hunk by Jane Matisse – Review by Jenni Bishop

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The Blogger and the HunkThe Blogger and the Hunk by Jane Matisse
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Blogger and the Hunk by Jane Matisse ​is a standalone contemporary romance told in different POV’s of our main characters. The story is interesting and flowed easily and is well written. Whilst I enjoyed the story I was a little disheartened with the overall thoughts on what a woman should look like as expressed by our male characters. I really wanted to shake and wake them to the real world. I also felt that the sister was a bit self absorbed and had no clue what was happening around her. But what I loved was that our main character finally finally found their self worth. In the end it all came together and is a sweet romance story.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Awakening Avery (A Second Chance Romance #3) by Laurie L.C. Lewis – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Awakening Avery (A Second Chance Romance #3)Awakening Avery by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Awakening Avery (A Second Chance Romance Book 3) Laurie Lewis is a beautiful second chance story. The story is one of healing and finding yourself after the death of your other half after being with them for many many years. This heartfelt and thought provoking story is moving and evoked many emotions as we travelled along with our main character as she struggles with her grief and subsequent depression and inability to move forward. Along her path of rediscovery and healing she meets many characters who are grieving and like her many are struggling to find that sense of purpose in their life. I must admit it took me a while to get into the story but once I did I became invested in each and everyone of the characters.

I look forward to reading other things from this author

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Lily Trilogy (The Gilded Flower Trilogies Books 1 – 3) by Vivian Winslow – Review by Jenni Bishop

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The Lily Trilogy (The Gilded Flower Trilogies Books 1 - 3)The Lily Trilogy by Vivian Winslow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Lily Trilogy (The Gilded Flower Trilogies Books 1 – 3) by Vivian Winslow is one woman’s journey of discovery. It is filled with lust and want, hurt and betrayal, fear and longing, happiness and love. Each man that Lily encounters is hot, passionate and oh so sexy and she learns something from each and everyone of them, whilst discovering something else about herself. It is good to see her grow and find what she really needs and wants. I enjoy reading box sets because all the books are right there and you don’t have to wait to read on. ​A quick, easy and enjoyable read

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Blogger and the Hunk by Jane Matisse – Review by Crystal Davidson

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The Blogger and the HunkThe Blogger and the Hunk by Jane Matisse
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fantastic story!! Penny loves her job, her parents, her sister, her 2 best friends, and her books. Happy in her own company, the last thing she’s anticipating is her unwanted feelings for Jack. In a perfect world, her one night stand would have been just that, however fate doesn’t always cooperate with what we want or plan. I can say it’s not often I don’t automatically like the male counterpart of a romance novel, but Jack took some time warming up to. Penny comes off as a quiet, inexperienced introvert. Jack a loud, opinionated player. They make an unlikely couple, and right off, I felt like Penny was better suited to someone with similar interests as herself. By the end, my opinion changed. I found this to be a quick read, with several twists keeping you hooked and anticipating what’s to come next. 5 stars and looking forward to reading more by this author!

 

Review by @crystald

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Found in Understanding (Refuge Series #3) by Debbie Zello – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Found in Understanding (Refuge Series #3)Found in Understanding by Debbie Zello
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Found in Understanding: Refuge Series Book Three by Debbie Zello had me in tears. Not just tears, heart wrenching ugly sobbing tears, I thought is she mad. Why would you do that, but has I read further it all became clear, even though I am still thoroughly devastated. I enjoyed the story which was very emotional as we watched a young child grow into herself, life, love and loss. But I also found myself laughing out loud. ​The story kept me engaged and I loved the main characters and I think this has to be my favourite book by Debbie. She always writes stories that evoke strong emotions and you know it is a good book when that happens.

This is absolutely one story that should not me missed. Beware you will need a box of tissues to make it through.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Luke: The McKades of Texas Book 3 by Kimberly Lewis – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Luke (The McKades of Texas, #3)Luke by Kimberly Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Luke (The McKades of Texas #3)
By Kimberly Lewis
Rated 5 stars!!

OMG!!! I floved this story! I was drawn in from the beginning and dang if I could hardly put this one down! So glad I have the kindle app on my phone. I was able to keep reading while out and about. Phew! Crisis averted!
Usually I am a fan of the male lead. In this story Karlie is my favorite. She is strong, sassy and confident. She knows what she wants and goes after it. Now saying that I will also say that Luke and Karlie together are adorable..like off the charts adorable!! Their back and forth is one of my favorite things they do. Oh and maybe how she twists him up and he does things for her he has never done before. So sweet!

Karlie is in a tough spot. Trying to change a mans mind about her or actually see her as she is..not as a little girl from his youth. That is why this is so good! She is so confident as she pulls different stunts on him saying…I’m a woman…see ME!! My personal enjoyment started near the beginning when Luke and Karlie meet up at the restaurant. Priceless! I loved being inside his head! It only get better from there!!

Secondary characters are all around in this book. Most are from the previous two stories ( which I have not read). They all add cute little elements to the story! The bantering between the girls is so cute! Many times is feel myself sitting here smiling while reading. The brothers enjoy doing all things to each other (ribbing, joking and sugaring up the young ones) that siblings have for eons. The parents and other family members make them see what is important in life and what isn’t.

This is my first story in this series and by this author. I loved both the story and the characters in here! If the other two are written along the same lines. I will gobble them up as well. This one will be placed on my reread book shelf. If you are reading this far and have made a decision yet? I highly recommend this if you want to fun in your romances.
Very enjoyable and well done!

Reviewed by @lisahelmick

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Awakening Avery (Second Chance Romance Series Book #3) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Angela Hayes

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4 Stars

 

Awakening Avery is the third book in the Second Chance Romance Series by Laurie Lewis. I have read a few of Ms. Lewis’s books now and I can always count on her to give me something to sink my teeth into- something that will move me, and something that will keep me well and truly entertained. I have come into this series by reading the third book first- I know, I am a bit backward lol. Needless to say, that this book can be read as a standalone, but it has intrigued me enough to want to know what happened in those first two books, so I will definitely be going back to read them in the near future.

I found this to be quite a thought-provoking story, as I could really relate to Avery and her stage in life- so it really got me thinking about what I would do and how I would cope given the same circumstances that Avery finds herself in. Because I am not so sure I would do very well at all. Which makes me admire Avery all the more for her strength, even as she struggled with depression, grief, feeling lost and somewhat stuck- and unable to move forward. But, she does just that- and it’s through this wonderful story that we get to accompany her on this journey to find herself, and begin to ‘live’ again.

As always, Ms. Lewis writes characters who really make the story special- the story itself is interesting- but it’s the characters who really make this story- they are portrayed in such a way that the story becomes ‘real’… entirely believable, and very relatable.

A wonderful second chances story.

 

Thank you, Ms. Lewis!

Primal Will (Alterations Series Book #3) by Jane Suen – Review by Angela Hayes

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4 Stars

 

Primal Will is the third and final book in the Alterations series by Jane Suen. This has been such a great series to read- packing such a lot into a fairly short space. I am a little sad to say goodbye to these characters, and the intriguing story that was woven around them. But, I think that there was a detail that was not yet settled- so I am hoping that this may because Ms. Suen plans to release more books that will explore this, as in a spin-off series or in a companion book series… I am holding out hope. This is a fast paced read that is full of intrigue, suspense, drama, some mystery, great character development, and a gripping storyline.

We pick up with Ellen, Gigi, Lilly, and Dr. Kite again- and I have to say that Ms. Suen did a fantastic job of choreographing all the elements from the first two books, to finally culminate in this book- without losing any of the momentum, suspense, grittiness- or the unpredictable nature of the story. She still managed to surprise me with the developments. What will the future hold for them all? Will they finally find the happiness that they’ve each been searching for? What of Dr. Kite and his ‘experiments’?

A unique and intriguing story/series- and I look forward to seeing what Ms. Suen does next.

 

Thank you, Ms. Suen!

Awakening Avery (A Second Chance Romance #3) by Laurie L.C. Lewis – Review by Jana Teppih

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Awakening Avery (A Second Chance Romance #3)Awakening Avery by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Awakening Avery is a Second Chance Romance book by Laurie Lewis. I had read a book by this writer before that I enjoyed a lot so I decided to pick up a copy of this one. I was slightly surprised to find that she is a Christian writer as there was nothing remotely indicating that in the first book I read by her. Generally I do not go for Christian stories as very often the writers include too much of their religious views than telling the story but I have to say that the way Ms Lewis is telling Avery’s story, it does not bother me. In its essence it is a story of a woman who has lost her husband, her children have lost their father and the family and the people in their orbit simply question their faith or lack of it. We all have something we believe in and whether it is Christian or something else, Ms Lewis has asked us to listen to how her characters see it.
I loved that the heroine of the story is not a young(ish) person but someone who has lived, loved and lost; it is not so often we see that. The writer takes Avery (and us) on a journey of healing and she (and us) meets different people and it brings us laugher, tears and takes your breath away!

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Werewolves Only (Crescent City Wolf Pack Series Book #1) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Angela Hayes

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5 Stars

 

“The pack did its best to keep peace in the supernatural community and to keep their existence a secret from the humans. Psychics and witches may have found a way to coexist…exposing some of their powers to the mundane…but there was no way in hell people would be as accepting of a predatory species like his. He had to stop Macey from learning anything about the demons…and especially the werewolves. Keeping tabs on the sexy detective proved a nice bonus…”

 

Werewolves Only is the first book in the Crescent City Wolf Pack series by Carrie Pulkinen. It is a great paranormal romance- with shifters/werewolves, demons, supernatural elements, mystery, suspense, action, police investigation, and plenty of drama- all set against the vibrant and mystical backdrop of New Orleans.

Ms. Pulkinen is a ‘new-to-me’ author that I will definitely be reading much more of in the future. The story surprised me, because initially I thought it was a bit slow to start with, but I found that after a couple of chapters I was completely hooked and eagerly read the rest of the book. I had to find what happens and whether they figure everything out.

The story is told from several points of view, which I really appreciated, because it really gave the story much more complexity, and depth- and gave me so much more to contemplate.

The characters are interesting and well developed. I loved Luke and Macey!! I was cheering them on right from the get-go! There was a lot more to them, and the story, than meets the eye.

The story is quite suspenseful, with a real ‘mystery’ to try to unravel. There are funny moment- with witty quips/banter that made me smile. Then there were quite gruesome scenes that really ramped up the intensity of the story. Ms. Pulkinen effortlessly describes what was happening in the story, painting a picture in my mind, and making it more like ‘watching’ everything play out, instead of merely reading along.

I can’t wait to see what book two has in store for me!

 

Thank you, Ms. Pulkinen!

Ghost of A Chance (Redclaw Security Series Book #2) by McKenna Dean – Review by Angela Hayes

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5 Stars

 

 “Sometimes I think I’m still stuck in the events of that summer.”

 

Ghost of a Chance is the second book in the Redclaw Security Series by McKenna Dean. Why have I not heard of this author, or this amazing series before now? Something this good should be on every paranormal/shifter romance reader’s ‘must read’ list. I think that even people who don’t normally choose paranormal stories, would like what they find between the covers of this book. I am so glad that I stumbled across this book, because I loved everything about it and Ms. Dean is now on my “Must Read’ author list! I look forward to many more reading adventures with her books in the future!

This is the second book in the series and even though it can be read as a standalone without feeling like you are missing parts of the story- it captivated me in such a way that I feel compelled to go back and read the first book as well- because I want to know everything about Redclaw, the wonderful characters, and the amazing stories.

This book has so much going on in it, in a good way- from shifters, secrets, betrayal, hidden agendas, suspense, action, romance, learning to accept yourself, new beginnings, learning to stand up for yourself, danger, fated mates, finding and embracing your true self, finding where you truly belong, excitement, strength, dramatic developments, emotion, twists, and a sizzling romance.

The story is really fascinating, Ms. Dean writes so incredibly well- she has a real gift for telling a mesmerising story! Her detailed descriptions produced such vivid images that I was transported into the story where I was able to ‘see’ it all so clearly play out in front of me. I was part of it all, with a ringside seat to the production.

The characters are fully realised individuals, brilliantly created to have their own unique traits- they are so believable, and quite endearing….or detestable, as in the case of a few that we meet through the story. I loved how much Sarah grew and developed over the course of the story- I was cheering her on! Casey was just wonderful, perfect really.

Bring on the next book!

 

Thank you, Ms. Dean!

Belleza and the Brute by Jane Matisse – Review by Angela Hayes

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5 Stars

 

Belleza and the Brute is a fantastic story by Jane Matisse. This is Ms. Matisse’s second book and it is my favourite of hers, so far. The story is wonderful, a bit of a twist and modern touch to the classic “Beauty and the Beast”. The characters were particularly good, very well developed, and incredibly endearing. I snapped this book up as soon as it came up on my feed and I couldn’t read it quickly enough- I was completely captivated and immersed in the story right from the beginning- flying through the pages and devouring every word. I was so enchanted by this superb story that I read it in one sitting…. because I really didn’t want to put it down. The story has so much to love about it- taking the reader of a journey full of love, loss, grief, second chances, betrayal, and sooo much more.

Elena Salazar has had a lot of hardship and pain in her 26 years. Recently losing her job, she is incredibly worried about how she will make ends meet- so imagine her distress when she gets a call in the middle of the night from her wayward brother, begging her for money to help pay a gambling debt. But with no money to her name, Elena goes to the man her brother is indebted to in the hope of finding a solution to the problem. This puts her in the sights of Tristan Mercier, who has his own demons- haunted by a life-shattering event 5 years earlier, he is closed off, intimidating, dark and intense. But there is something about Elena that strikes a spark within Tristan. He is intrigued enough to offer her a deal that Elena really has no choice but to accept. The deal is that Elena would work for Tristan for a 6-month period to pay off the debt, while her brother goes to rehab to address his gambling problem. And so begins this incredible tale…….. but things are not quite what either are expecting. This deal will change their lives forever. You really should do yourself a favour and snap up a copy of this book for yourself and read all the intriguing details for yourself. You are bound to love it just as much as I have!

The story really had so much going for it and it was so easy to love. The storyline is a clever twist on the old classic, and even though there have been hundreds of ‘retellings’ that I’ve read over the years, this is definitely one of the best of that bunch. The story is witty- with funny quips, banter and antic; then there are touching and tender moments that melted my heart; the chemistry between Elena and Tristan was sizzling; there were suspenseful scenes that had me on the edge of my seat; which all amounted to me not being able to put the story down until I had finished the very last word.

Oh, and who wouldn’t love Toro- he’s such a wonderful addition to the story!

Bellissimo!

 

Thank you, Ms. Matisse!

Belleza and the Brute: A Modern-Day Retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Jane Matisse – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Belleza and the Brute: A Modern-Day Retelling of Beauty and the BeastBelleza and the Brute: A Modern-Day Retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Jane Matisse
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Belleza and the Brute: A Modern-Day Retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Jane Matisse is the first book I have read by this author and boy it is a good first impression. Belleza and the Brute is a contemporary romance story but is also a second chance tale one that I loved reading. The characters are caring and compassionate, faithful and loving. One though has lost his way after a traumatic event and just needs the love and understanding of someone wonderful to hopefully help him find his way. You will find yourself caught up in many emotions that pull at your heartstrings. Pain and hurt, loss and torment, love and caring will see you wanting to reach out to help. The chemistry is sexy and smoldering you will need a cigarette by the time you have finished. LOL.
If you love romance and second chances then this is a book that you don’t want to miss out on.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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