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Gone Country (Gone in Love) by Katrina Marie – Review by Amy Brennan

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Gone Country (Cousins Gone #1)Gone Country by Katrina Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have never hidden nor denied the fact that my heart and soul belong in the countryside. I was born and raised in the ‘county’ and wouldn’t have it any other way. I have spent my fair share of living in cities, but it’s never really felt like home. This novel really revolves around the mixed feelings that Stella feels when it comes to moving from her big home city of Austin, to a small little Podunk town of Asheville. Not only is she leaving the hustle and bustle, but also her cousins, which she describes are more like sisters in every capacity. I truly enjoyed getting to know Stella, as well as understanding her bond with her cousins Audrey, and Tiffany. Katrina Marie does an amazing job at incorporating the importance of girlfriends, as well as being able to own the independence that lays beneath the surface.

Now, Johnny, on the other hand, sounds like my type of man! The perfect gentleman, but has that alpha side to him that just, for lack of a better description, makes me, and obviously Stella, swoon. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters and being able to really picture the scene where the story is set, and the small town ‘family’ that Stella is welcomed into almost immediately. Of course, it’s not always super easy, and people have history, and past relationships, which Stella and Johnny navigate as best they can, especially within such a whirlwind romance. Overall, though predictable, while reading this novel, I had a smile on my face, enjoying all the emotions, and the experience itself. Looking forward to reading more by Ms. Marie!

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Gone Country (Gone in Love) by Katrina Marie – Review by Amy Brennan

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Gone Country (Cousins Gone #1)Gone Country by Katrina Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have never hidden nor denied the fact that my heart and soul belong in the countryside. I was born and raised in the ‘county’ and wouldn’t have it any other way. I have spent my fair share of living in cities, but it’s never really felt like home. This novel really revolves around the mixed feelings that Stella feels when it comes to moving from her big home city of Austin, to a small little Podunk town of Asheville. Not only is she leaving the hustle and bustle, but also her cousins, which she describes are more like sisters in every capacity. I truly enjoyed getting to know Stella, as well as understanding her bond with her cousins Audrey, and Tiffany. Katrina Marie does an amazing job at incorporating the importance of girlfriends, as well as being able to own the independence that lays beneath the surface.

Now, Johnny, on the other hand, sounds like my type of man! The perfect gentleman, but has that alpha side to him that just, for lack of a better description, makes me, and obviously Stella, swoon. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters and being able to really picture the scene where the story is set, and the small town ‘family’ that Stella is welcomed into almost immediately. Of course, it’s not always super easy, and people have history, and past relationships, which Stella and Johnny navigate as best they can, especially within such a whirlwind romance. Overall, thought predictable, while reading this novel, I had a smile on my face, enjoying all the emotions, and the experience itself. Looking forward to reading more by Ms. Marie!

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No Way Out (Mafia Elite, book 1) by Amy McKinley – Review by Amy Brennan

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No Way Out (Mafia Elite, #1)No Way Out by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Have you ever had that feeling that has you doubting deep down that you are where you should be, whether that be physically, mentally, or emotionally? Our main female character Liliana ‘Lil,’ feels that way every single day. Trapped in what might as well be a prison of a home, with her father that literally just regards her as property, she struggles through the losses she’s experienced, and with the knowledge that her future isn’t her own, rather, will be decided without her best interests at heart.

Enter our hero, Max, under the guise of being a hitman for the families within the Mafia, who believes he has learnt all the information he needs to be able to complete the mission that was assigned to him by none other than Liliana Brambilla’s grandfather, Vincenzo. That mission, my friends, is to protect Lil at all costs. Little does Max know, he has bitten off more than he can chew, but loves every bite, nonetheless.

As was the case with other novels by Amy McKinley, I couldn’t put this down. It was a change of pace from the past few I have read from her, and the second Mafia novel I’ve indulged in, and I have to say, this one really did it for me. It had more twists and turns than I was expecting, and in turn, had me staying up way past my bedtime, not only to read, but to maybe entice the events in the novel to inspire my dreams, and the emotional waves I experienced, from goosebumps, to laughter, was everything I was expecting from her, and more. So very much looking forward to the next installment in the Mafia Elite series. Highly recommend!

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Romancing the Tropics (A Tropical Cocktail Romance Boxset) by L.M. Mountford – Review by Amy Brennan

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Romancing the Tropics : A Holiday Romance Boxset (A Tropical Cocktail Romance)Romancing the Tropics : A Holiday Romance Boxset by L.M. Mountford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If I wasn’t already a lustful person, this little holiday romance boxset really would have set those wheels in motion! I decided to pick up these stories one night when my partner was stuck at work overnight, hoping it would give me something very exciting to fall asleep to, and boy, was I right.

Tequila Sunset is a quirky little quick read, that is definitely a must read for those out there that have a thing for ‘silver foxes’ and attaining the unattainable. As someone that has always felt average, I could relate to Cass’s character, as well as having her little sex kitten side well hidden behind her normal persona. It was quick, sexy, and had some kinky thoughts running through my mind. It left me flustered, flushed, and very turned on.

Beneath the Sheets is a second chance romance quickie, where our main character Alex is travelling to visit his estranged best friend, Sarah Snow. His life had become complicated back home, and the exchange of emails led to him making the quick decision to fly to visit her. After not seeing her for so long, he finds that all those feelings he had before hadn’t gone away, in fact, they’d grown stronger, and he knew that they were meant to be. It was a nice change up from the wham bam thank you ma’am of the first story, including a brief background, and some nice build up to the bedroom scene. It gave my heart all the feels, and I found myself congratulating these two sweethearts on their HEA.

Overall, these quick reads were fantastic, and exactly what I was after. L.M Mountford has a special talent for writing these short erotica stories. Well done, consider me impressed. Will be back for more!

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Ride For Me (The North Shore Crew Book 1) by Vi Summers – Review by Amy Brennan

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Ride For Me (North Shore Crew Series, Book 1)Ride For Me by Vi Summers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lil and Gage have that special something that most grown women dream of, wish for, and deem ‘relationship goals.’ Despite their previous relationships that ended in tragedy, and the initial need to fight that zing that they both feel, they cautiously explore a friendship, and recognize the potential that could have them be so much more. I felt as though Vi Summers did an amazing job introducing the reader on The North Shore Crew members, their different connections, and the lifelong friendships that they’ve shared. They are each other’s chosen family, and the drama and growth that each of them goes through and their support system leaves the reader wanting and appreciating their friendships as well. I absolutely adore the connection that Lil and her brother Josh ‘Mickey’ share, how we see how the two main characters deal with their own grief and losses, and encourage the reader to be stronger, and to appreciate the little things.

The only thing was that I felt as though the book was a wee bit long. The first half does tend to drag a bit, only because it’s a lot of build up to Lil and Gage’s HEA. Once you hit the 50% mark, things start to really pick up, and the reader is drawn in, if anything like me, and finishing the remainder of the book in one sitting. There are a lot of raw emotions, some graphic events, lots of love, care, and sincerity. A++ from this avid reader, very much looking forward to indulging in more by this author, specifically Break for Me, where we’ll get to dive into Mace and Jess’s adventure!

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Fight for it by Amy L Gale – Review by Amy Brennan

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Fight for It (Sunset Cove)Fight for It by Amy L. Gale
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sometimes, you just need a quick little pick me up to renew your view on romance, love, life, and all good things. That’s exactly why I picked this little novella up, and I can tell you, I wasn’t disappointed. As with most people, Ray and Lys (Alyssa) have fought their own demons, experience some turbulence within their relationship, and have the unfortunate circumstance of a shared loss. All of this brings them closer and closer together, and allow them to open their hearts to each other, and to really explore just how far their relationship can take them. My partner caught me smiling, and blushing a few times, and inquired as to what exactly I was reading, if that gives you any indication as to how well this novella is written. Amazing little reprieve from the real world. Thoroughly enjoyed it, thank you, Amy L. Gale!

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TAINTED by Marsha R. West – Review by Amy Brennan

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TaintedTainted by Marsha R West
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

There is something to be said for a strong, courageous female lead. Regardless of the genre, I find that these novels pull me in, and spit me out wanting to be a little bit better, a little bit stronger, and a little more independent. This story was comprised of a couple strong female characters, being Liz, and Lauran (her daughter.) Their relationship alone tells you what kind of Mother Liz is, and how much of her life she devoted to motherhood. Her little pup Charley seems to be quite adorable as well.

We’re thrown into a whirlwind of events when the FBI come pounding on Liz’s door in the wee hours of the morning, and you’re quickly brought up to speed on the goings on of what she’s been through over the last couple years. Once you get the backstory, Lauran and Liz make their way to Red River, NM, from Fort Worth, Tx. Marsha R. West does a phenomenal job at setting the scene, and you feel as though you are along for the ride, through the scenic drive. The easy conversation, and getting to know both these characters is done, flawlessly!

The trials and tribulations that these women, and their friends/acquaintances go through are crazy, intense, and quick. I found myself getting more and more curious as to what would happen with Liz, and her old love interest from high school, Marshal Matt Thornton, as it quickly becomes a suspense and second chance romance. I didn’t ever put this book down and was lost in it from page 1 until the ending. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. Will be recommending to my Mother, as Liz and Lauran’s relationship reminds me of our own.

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Hairballs and Homicide (Kitty Beret Café Mysteries Book 1) by Ruth J. Hartman – Review by Amy Brennan

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Hairballs and HomicideHairballs and Homicide by Ruth J. Hartman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

To be frank, I only just really became a cat lover over the last couple of years. I grew up always having dogs and have always favored them by far. I picked up this novel initially because I was feeling like I needed a change of pace with respect to the genre I have been quite keen on, and also I thought this was one of the most thought out titles I’ve come across as of late. Mysteries, especially murder mysteries are typically not something I’ve ever shown any interest in before, but I’m quite glad to have started on this Kitty Beret Café Mystery adventure.

Ruth J. Hartman does a spectacular job at setting the scene in which we explore within this novel, and an even better one at allowing the reader to get to know each of the characters involved. Ellie Warren is the owner of the Kitty Beret Café which is what and who the whole plot line revolves around. She is a sweet, single, cat loving café owner and operator that adores her dear fur babies and enjoys supporting and contributing to her community. You can tell right from the get-go that she has a big heart and will do everything she can to nurture and protect her loved ones. Unfortunately, the warm fuzzy feeling you get from visualizing this sweet cat café is short lived, as things start to get sideways for Ellie, and a murder victim is discovered right out behind her business, and she suddenly finds herself in the middle of the murder investigation. How intriguing!

I love the way that Ruth puts the time and effort into bringing new ideas, and scenery into this book, and the way she makes you want to keep reading, because so many questions are left unanswered. I personally look forward to the next Kitty Beret Café Mystery installment, as I want to know more about Ellie, her special furry friend Templeton, her Nana, and the detective that was on the murder case. The only thing I did find, was that there seemed to be A LOT happening at times, and I felt as though I was reading a series, rather than just one book. I did find it took away from the primary plot, but did find it to be quite enjoyable, nonetheless. Keep them coming, I’ll be keeping an eye out for the next book. Thank you, Ruth!

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Jake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail (Jake the Growling Dog Book 3) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Amy Brennan

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Jake the Growling Dog Shares His TrailJake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Go Jake, Go! I picked up this story to read to my daycare kiddos, and they absolutely loved the artwork in the story. I have to admit, the children in my care are a little younger than those that would really take away the overall message in this Jake the Growling Dog story, but they did sit for the duration of the reading, and asked questions! I really enjoyed how the story came across, and how important inclusion is, and to teach it right from the get-go. The only thing I found was that the story was VERY long and I felt like the build-up had the girls sort of losing interest until we find the culprit. Overall, a wonderful read, and I would recommend it to any parents out there. Well done, Ms. Shannon!

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So Close (Love Grows Series Book 4) by Renee Regent – Review by Amy Brennan

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So Close (Love Grows #4)So Close by Renee Regent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I related to the strong female lead in this story, tenfold. Dahlia is a young, single mother to her newly seven-year-old son, Beckett, who must deal with the stress of co-parenting with her uncooperative ex-husband, Trey. Co-parenting is never easy, and especially when you have different parenting styles. This story not only revolves around the love that develops between Dahlia and Trey, but also the issues and real-world problems that arise from being a parent.

This story revolves around Dahlia, her son Beckett, her ex-husband Trey, and her ex-best friend, Levi, with whom she’s been estranged from for the past 7 years. Rene Regent does a phenomenal job at keeping the reader interested, from the very first chapter. Not only are you captured and pulled in by the possibility of a friendship turned relationship, but also the fact that being a parent truly is a full-time job, no matter what parenting style you may choose. I personally, wasn’t setting this book down until my curiosity was satisfied.

I love the way the story follows the characters around and gives you snippets into each of their personalities and the way they are involved in the story. Beckett is a very strong headed, amazing little man that reminds me of my own daughter, which made it that much more relatable. Adventuresome, honest little children are my favorite! I will be reading more by Ms. Regent, and so very glad I picked up this novel. It was everything I hoped that it would be, from reading the synopsis, and her writing style is just addictive. I cannot wait to read more of her work. Thank you, Renee!

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Sinful Daughter (Dark Mafia Sins Book 1) by Emily Bowie – Review by Amy Brennan

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Sinful DaughterSinful Daughter by Emily Bowie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I must be honest here, when I picked up this novel, I had my doubts. Even at the beginning, for the first few chapters, I didn’t feel like I was really “in it.” I felt as though I was skipping back to the beginning to recall who was who in the two Mafia families that they discuss, and it took away from some of the story. Really, I have not been interested in any Mafia oriented books, shows, or movies before, and took a chance at picking this up. Well, once I was a fair bit into Aria and Theos forbidden love story, I was NOT putting it down.

I started diving deeper into the relationships between Aria and her father, and other sisters, along with her older adopted brother, and the sort of ‘sheltered’ life she had lived up until this point. Being told what to do is not something I’ve ever been a fan off, so I could certainly relate to not only Aria, but her sister Katrina’s character as well. Arrogant, authoritative personas have been my kryptonite, so when I started to get to know Theos character a bit more throughout this novel, I must admit, I was falling for him.

Overall, I quite enjoyed that Emily Bowie’s Sinful Daughter – Mafia Romance, though wish I had of taken more time to really get to understand the inner workings of the Mafia, and what that means for all family members. I loved the twists and turns that she brings into the main plot line, and the cliffhanger ending. I will be reading the next installment, and with the whole modern day ‘Romeo and Juliet’ feel this story gives off, I have to say I’m quite excited to get to know the other family members better! Thank you, Emily, for this change of pace. Wonderful read!

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Repair (Rescue Me Book 1) by Trish Williford – Review by Amy Brennan

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Repair (Rescue Me #1; The Everyday Heroes World)Repair by Trish Williford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Repair Me! Gosh, I loved this love story. There’s always that one person you think about, or have, that you had and have built a long lasting friendship with, or better yet, relationship with, and this story fully dives into all the feelings, and problems that can come from such scenarios. Charlie and Tank have a long, and tumultuous history, filled with loss, and heartache, but don’t forget about the good things, the love they’ve shared, albeit within the confines of friendship, and the way they have supported each other, through thick and thin. Reading this novel tugged at my heartstrings, as you become so attached to Charlie, who is a kick-butt nurse, passionate about all those around her, and Tank, who has battled his own demons and come out stronger for it. I loved getting to know both their characters through the talents of Trish Williford, her writing coming across strong, and allowing you to visualize and connect with all those things, and people she introduces along the way. I am very excited to read the next installment and see how things turn out for Charlies brother, Jude! If you’re ready to fall deeper in love with your people, give this a read! It’ll have you appreciating all the small things in today’s crazy world. Thank you, Trish!

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