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Atonement (The McIntire County Series Book 1) by Winter Austin – Review by Angela Shirley

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Atonement (The McIntire County Series: #1)Atonement by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nic Rivers came out of the army and has settled in the sleepy town of Eider but when she is asked to take point as a sniper against a man threatening his wife and kids her demons come out and she has trouble pushing them away. When one night she calls the inly person who can help her Con O’Hanlon who can chase the nightmares away.

When she is asked to join the task force they uncover that there is a killer on the loose that is setting up murders to look like suicides, but can they discover who the Priest is and stop them before more murders occurs?

I have read other books by this author before and this series does not disappoint. Winter has the gift of drawing you into the story and creating characters who are flawed but are strong and overcome the issues to get the job down, especially her females characters are full of sassy but also are happy to show the vulnerability.

This story has the twists and turns of a good thriller, with excellent writing and character development. The chemistry between the main characters flew off the page and with the addition of the secondary characters adding to the drama I can’t wait to read the next instalment in this series and get to see Nic and Con’s relationship development more.

 

Russian and Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Angela Shirley

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Russian and Royally ComplicatedRussian and Royally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lev is the stoic bodyguard, ready to protect the Prince Fynix so when Fyn met Bridget on the private his life has not been the same. Although Fyn is happy with Bridget, she bring baggage with her in her best friend Daphne who is the royal pain in the bum to Lev. Can the grumpy bodyguard become friends with this annoying American or will they kill each other?

Daphne has become a staple at the Palace but when a brief encounter with the grumpy bodyguard leave her frustrated and confused, so when Bridget and Fyn go on honeymoon Daphne has a secret and can’t go home she decides to sneak into the private villa of Fyn but unbeknownst to her, Lev is relaxing there. Can they put there away there dislike for each other aside and realise that there is actually an attraction.

This is the second book in this series and although this mainly revolves around Daphne and Lev you could read this as a stand alone story but if would be advisable to read the first book as it gives you the background the characters and how they have together.

The chemistry from the two main characters jumps right off the page and opens up Lev as a character as in the first book he is very shut down person but you get at more of the history and how his family become involved with the Royal family in Lovolia. Daphne was a strong character in the first book but this book shows the vulnerable side of her which it seems not many people see.

The twists and turns that occur in the story, keeps the story moving and flows brilliantly. The secondary characters enhances the book and with the beautiful descriptions of the landscape you feel that the land is a character all of its own. I can’t to read the next book in this sequence as you can’t leave the ending like that, I need to know me.

Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 1) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Angela Shirley

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Royally ComplicatedRoyally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bridget is on her honeymoon but without the groom, finding that her fiancée was having an affair with his secretary will somewhat put a blip in the plans. So arming herself with her best friend and deciding not to waste the trip she finds herself in Lovolia. When Daphne starts pushing her to forget the idiot she was going to marry and have a holiday fling, but when Daphne comments get too close for comfort off storms Bridget with a bottle of tequila.

While wondering Bridget finds herself on a small beach with no crowds accept a lone man surfing in the sea, when all of a sudden she is starring at the most handsome man she has seen in ages and when he approaches her demanding she leaves the private beach something happens between them that makes it impossible to move. Until advances are made and tequila regrets maybe on the cards.

Fyn has pressures most people could not conceive, the next in the line for King all he wants is to live his life the way he wants to live it, but when the King and Queen are pressuring him to marry Princess Abigail who he does not even like it all becomes too much. Fyn does what he loves to unwind and goes surfing at the private beach until he is rudely interrupted by a trespasser. As Fyn gets to know her better the chemistry between the two of them is off the charts but just as he has found her she vanishes and he is lost.

Over the year of searching for her she shows up back in his life and he is not letting her escape again, but with the unrest in his country can he keep hold of the woman he loves and help save the country he loves from the rebels out to destroy the monarchy?

I have read a lot of Gwyn’s books and they all offer strong female leads and this one does not disappoint, although at the beginning Bridget is lost and seems grown down by the end of the story she is determined to fight for her man even if it upsets the Queen/Fyn’s mother. Fyn’s character has different dimensions and with his strong relationship to his best friend Lev shows another layer to this complicated character.

The story flows and is well written, with twists and turns throughout the story will have you engaged until the end. As this is the first book in the series it sets up the world of Lovolia brilliantly and has you wanting to visit to see the various sites that is described within the pages.

I can’t wait to read the next book in this series regarding Lev and Daphne as this seems a fiery relationship in this book.

Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Angela Shirley

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Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire #2)Deadly Vengeance by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Luca has a plan, the Vaccaro’s took something away from him and his family he is determined to get pay back, in the form of Vaccaro’s eldest daughter but can he convince her he is the one for her.

Valenzia has had a sheltered life, her father have kept them away from the world, not really understanding the family business but hearing the rumours of her Papa and mother. Until one day her world is turned upside down and in walks Luca, a mysterious dark stranger with a past like her fathers.

Valenzia becomes infatuated by Luca and although they start off as enemies, they stat to have trust and affection but will her family understand or will the riff that has been decades in the making ruin their lives.

This is the second book in this series and it just as full of twists and turns as the first one. Luca’s character starts off as a normal man but understanding his his makes his character more interesting as the story goes on. The character of Valenzia made an equal too Luca and she was just as sassy and strong to push back at the strong alpha character.

I loved the secondary characters who enhanced and made the story more intense as you continue to consume this brilliant story. I can’t wait to read more from this wonderful series in the future as the writing is engaging and keeps you on the edge of your chair.

The Reluctant Suitor (The Studs of Clear Creek County) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Angela Shirley

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The Reluctant Suitor: BWWM Historical Western (The Studs of Clear Creek County)The Reluctant Suitor: BWWM Historical Western by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Billie Jean is fighting for the rights of her people, family and friends but there is one thing standing in her way and that is the Locke Farm. Although when she meets the son Fisher there is something between them that both of the can’t resist but know that it is forbidden.

Fisher Locke has finally has a chance to prove himself to his parents but when he see her for the first time he is instantly drawn to her, but as they start to develop feelings for each other , can they survive the backlash or will they be destined to be apart forever.

I have read other books in this series and although there is some crossover with other stories you can easily read this book as a stand alone story. I loved the chemistry between these two characters and the emotional push and pull is great to read. With this historical storyline it is great to read about such strong females characters in an era where woman, especially black woman really had no say in the world but determined to make a difference these woman fight with there lives for justice and freedom.

This is a brilliant story which will have you engrossed and turning the pages until the end.

Sing For Me (The Balefire Series Book 2) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Angela Shirley

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Sing For Me (Balefire, #2)Sing For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blu Connolly has the world at his finger tips, the lead singer of one of the most successful rock bands in America and the world. Girls have never been a problem and the variety is the spice of life but as the Asian tour comes to a end Blu decides to spend sometime with him mom.

Ashleigh is an army brat moving from base to base she is pleased that she has a home base and a lovely garden she can tend to and create a beautiful, tranquil space. Being friends with her next-door neighbour is a highlight on a Saturday when they indulge in lunch, she is enjoying her life. Then he comes riding into her life and will things be the same again.

Blu comes riding into his mom’s street on his Harley and revving his engine to upset his mom’s neighbour but when a blonde bombshell coming charging out and has a go at him, he then has a attraction to her that he can’t seem to shake. As they get to know each other can Ashleigh get past the cocky image of the lead singer to the Blu who helps in her garden and is normal and sweet, you will need to read to find out.

This is the second book in this series and it is just as good as the first, with the characters that are so well developed and suited for each other. The story flows brilliantly and I am so glad to ready about Blu and Ash. Although this book can be read as a standalone story the first book in this series is just as good.

Blu and Ash have a chemistry that just jumps off the page and you get to see a different side to him from the first book, you tend to have the same attitude as Ashleigh when first meeting Blu as the arrogant lead singer but his softer side it beautiful to read.

Can wait to read the next book in this series.

Regaining Integrity (Code of Honor Book 4) by Brooke May – Review by Angela Shirley

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Regaining Integrity (Code of Honor)Regaining Integrity by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Angelica Reece was a nerdy kid and at high school was never really in the popular group, although with a crush on the hottest boy in school who would never look at her one day that all changed. Angelica was asked to met Chase in the library and when she arrived, he stood there just as handsome as ever, but what happened after cemented itself in Angie’s head forever and has she really got over it all these years later.

Chase Thorne is back from his military service not quite sure where his place is but working on his family’s ranch is a good start, but when he goes to pick his nephew from school and see Miss Reece his teacher Chase is smitten and needs to get to know this woman better. As time goes on Chase starts flirting and every turn he is knocked down and dismissed, this has never happened to Chase, he has always had his pick of girls, but Angie is different and although deep down he has a feeling he knows her she is not giving anything away.

As Chase pursues Angie, the more Angie is grinding down until her best friends says why not go for the crush you had at school, so Angie throws caution to the wind and takes the leap into a relationship with Chase. Will he remember her from school and the humiliation her caused her or can Angie overcome it and find happiness?

I love this authors books and this one does not disappoint; the main and secondary character are always rich and enhance the story as it goes along. I loved the character of Angie who was so confident as she grown older but still had that fear from her childhood of rejection and then the utter understanding of Chase that if something is worth having it needs to be nurtured and grown not automatically expected. Overall, this was a fast-paced story with a lovely feel good factor and can’t wait to read more.

Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Angela Shirley

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Cruel KingCruel King by K.M. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Matthias is the oldest of the King brothers, being tortured by his future as the heir to the empire he is slowly losing his way. Until one day he is the only one left at home, his other brothers deciding to go with their father into the city but that one night changed the whole track of his life forever. The one person he was told to stay away from walks into his home and he throws caution to the wind and decides to take want he has wanted for years, her his Ava.

As they have this incredible day and night they both give into the attraction that has been there for years, but when her father comes back and understands she has spent time with his employer’s older son, Ava’s father takes steps to separate them, but as Ava tells Matthias’s brother to give him a message she leaves. Mattias is heartbroken that she left without saying a word after the amazing time they spent together, so decides, to join the family business but in London away from the memories of his sweet Ava.

Five years later, Matthias’s father is dying, and all brothers arrive back to be at his bedside but when he sees the one person who broke him, he becomes angry and throws her out of the house and his life. Although he is heartbroken, he still loves her, but can he show that to her or will the bitter man he has become win over.

I have to say I have not read anything by this author before and I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The characters were well developed and complimented each other brilliantly, the angst and forbidden love aspect was a great tug of war between the two of them and with the twist in the middle added to the whole drama of the story.

I did find at the beginning it a bit slow but as the story progressed you got to understand the dynamic of all the characters and brothers, although the shock at the end hit hard. I am glad in the end it became a happy ever after and that despite the battles of mistrust and deception.

I can wait to delve into the catalogue of this order and read more.

Master Campania (Masters of the Consulate Book 7) by Sylvia Black – Review by Angela Shirley

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Master Campania: Dark Vampire Romance (Masters of the Consulate Book 7)Master Campania: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Master Campania has been tasked with finding the traitors who live within the world of the Wiccan and so when he finds four witches in his area he tries to get the information out if them, but there is one problem, he seems drawn to one of them and is fighting the attraction.

Willow and her sisters have left the Academy in search of there own beliefs, finding a safe place in the regions is hard but having settle comfortable they are under no illusion they are safe. One night they are discovered by Master Campania and Willow’s whole world is turned around, but when she starts having feelings for the old vampire she is thrown into turmoil and can she control her feelings and stay alive.

This is seventh book in the Masters of Consulate series and oh my god it does not disappoint, although i feel the books can be read as stand alone stories it is better to read them as a series to understand the underlying theme and arc running through them.

The writing as always is engaging and with the twists and turns in the story will have you staying up late to finish off the story. The characters in this series are rich and full of depth and even though as like me this is not a normal genre you read you will be blown away with the imagination and she draws you in with each story I read.

I believe this series is continuing and can’t wait to read the next book in the instalment.

Sliding into Home (Playing for Keeps Book 3) by Lauren Fraser – Review by Angela Shirley

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Sliding into Home: A Secret Baby Sports Romance (Playing for Keeps Book 3)Sliding into Home: A Secret Baby Sports Romance by Lauren Fraser
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jeff is living his best life, the one he was made for. Playing for a top baseball tam and not having to worry about anything. Although part of his job is coaching at the local community centre which always makes him happy especially the young kids who he can see the enjoyment in their eyes just as he had as a kid. While coaching one day, one of the kids Max who deep down is one of Jeff’s favourites drags him to meet his mom. When there eyes meet Jeff realises it’s the woman who got away all those years age.

Kia having just moved to be closer to her sister and her new job is happiest when making time for Max, picking him up from practice is the best he is always full of energy and constantly talking about his coach “Smitty”, but when they finally meet Kia is taken back to the time of there meeting and the inevitable news she needs to break to this man who has never really left her heart.

Can Kia and Jeff rekindle there lost love or will the secret she has been keeping for six years be enough to break them apart?

This is the third book in the Playing for keeps series and it just keeps getting better and better. Kia is a strong and sassy woman who against all odds has raised her son and the is her world. Jeff as a character is full of emotion and surprise when finding out he has a son but the way he embraces both of them s lovely to read.

The writing as always is engaging and flows with the story brilliantly and makes you want to keep turning the page to see what happens next. The secondary characters are a great edition to the story and we definitely need Gonzo’s story and see who can tame that man. I can’t wait to read the next book and please, please don’t let us wait too long.

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Heavy Shot (Nashville Assassins: Next Generation) by Toni Aleo – Review by Angela Shirley

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Heavy Shot (Nashville Assassins: Next Generation #7)Heavy Shot by Toni Aleo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dimitri is descended from Assassins history with his father playing for them, now Dimitri wants to join the iconic team which means moving the family from Russian back to the United States. All though he loves his family when it is suggested he stay within the players apartments he jumps at the chance to relax on his own and think about hockey.

Austen has been sent by her grandfather to shadow the GM Shellie at the Assassins so she can gain the knowledge and confidence to run the farm team her grandfather has just purchased. Austen is really enjoying her first day when a conversation between her and Shellie has the GM offering her a place in the Players Apartments save going back and forwards while she is shadowing. Austen is thrilled and once settled into the apartment, although one night when a stranger breaks in and she attacks him and his xbox the realisation that the apartment has been doubled booked starts to make sense.

As the story goes on Austen and Dimitri start to have a flow of living together and thus there relationship grows move and they start having feelings for each other. Can Austen overcome her past and can Dimitri prove he is worth his spot in the team.

I loved this story and although I have read some of the series but not all it can also be read as a stand alone book. I loved the interaction of the two main characters and the differences in there backgrounds added a depth to both characters. Austen’s character was heart breaking to read about her background and history but the way the soft side of Dimitri came over was lovely to read and be a part of.

The story is well written and flows beautifully through the ups and downs of these two brilliant characters, the chemistry which jumps off the page enhances the story and drives you along to read what will happen next. I can wait to go back and read some of the stories I have missed and look forward to the next book in the series.

Reticent Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Angela Shirley

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Reticent Hawke: A Billionaire Reverse Age Gap Best Friend's Older Sister Forbidden Romance (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2)Reticent Hawke: A Billionaire Reverse Age Gap Best Friend’s Older Sister Forbidden Romance by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jude has always been in the shadows of this big family, although not a true Hawke the love and friendship this family has offered has been unfiltered, but the past still haunts him and he always feel like he does not deserve this as his past is horrific and if only they knew he would be discarded like the trash he perceives he is. Although there has always been a shining light, an angel of sorts that has always calmed him and although she is a Hawke he does not feel worthy of her or her love.

Angelina has always been the old soul, having to deal with her father’s death at six years old will do that to you, but when Jude arrived that Christmas Day when he was ten years old, lost and hiding in the closet she had an instant reaction to him of protection, not a mother’s protection but an attraction she has always played down.

Move on fifteen years and Jude is not the ten year old boy he is a man and with his attraction for Angelina growing every time he sees her, but the only problem is his anxiety and Panic attacks are at the all time high. Angelina is frustrated with Jude she does not fully understand his side, she knows he is hiding something but can he trust her and can she love him the way she wants too.

I love this series and the first generation and am so excited that I finally get to read Jude’s story. Over the series you see some of the horrific past of Jude but now understanding the whole story it is just heart breaking and no wonder he feels so broken. Angelina has also had her fair share of heartache aswell and trying to reconcile that she stills loves her dad who past away with the step dad in Landon who she loves just as much but feels like a betrayal.

The story as always is brilliantly written and flows wonderfully, the characters as always are rich and full with heart and passion which jumps off the page and I loved reading the relationship grow between Jude and Angelina. In all the stories I feel like I am part of the family and are transported along with each emotion which grips you till the end.

I really can’t wait until the next instalment, hoping Allie’s story or Astrid. Please Please Please lol.

The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Angela Shirley

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The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Detective Scala has received a mysterious note within his car, as he reads he discovers that not all maybe well and that he maybe caught up in something big. As the weeks go on nothing major happens until one night he is called to the cemetery as a body of a young man is discovered.

As he investigates the young man’s death he then unravels connections with seemingly unrelated murders pushing it further into lines of deceit and corruption. As him and his team investigate further dark secrets are discovered and will he be able to stop this killer before another body is found.

This the first book I have read by this author and what a start to my journey. The character of Maurizio Scala was sharp and non nonsense which was refreshing to read and brilliant to follow, with the introduction of the team and the secondary characters it had you engrossed all the way through.

Although this is the second book in the series I felt comfortable reading this as a stand alone story and did not loss anything in the back story or history. I loved the dual prospective of the story where you got to see inside the killers mind as well as the police which made the thrilling twists and turns even more exciting.

I would really like to go back and read the first book and hopefully more moving forward.

Notebook Mysteries ~ Parisian Intrigue (Notebook Mysteries Book 6) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Angela Shirley

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Parisian Intrigue (Notebook Mysteries #6)Parisian Intrigue by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Emma and Jeremy are in the swig of their business, until one day an invitation arrives for them to travel to Paris, although at first this seems like a gracious gift from a benefactor it all seems just too perfect. Although to there better judgement they decide to take the trip and explore the sights of Paris and the Exposition which is due to be there too.

So while they are seeing the sights and wonderful innovations Emma and Jeremy stumble upon a girl who requires there help but as soon as they are helping her she vanishes, can they find her an understand what is going on, while Dora and Tim are caught up in a plot which they have been told about regarding the exposition, can they race against the time and find out what is really going on, you will have to read the book.

This is the sixth book in the series and although this is a series each book can be read as a standalone, the nice thing in reading the whole series is you get to see the relationship grow between Emma and Jeremy over the time and how the whole crew got together.

I love the historical aspect of the story and the vivid descriptions and words feel like you are transported back to 1889 and experiencing all this with the characters of the book. I love the way these stories weave a web and thrilling adventures that feel like you are with the characters and helping them solve the mysterious as you go along.

I can’t wait to keep reading more and look forward to the next book in this series.

Broken. (Green St. Girls Series) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Angela Shirley

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Broken. (Green St. Girls #2)Broken. by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When one of your best friends leaves a dying wish for you to take a chance and live life what are you supposed to say, well Charlie would not let me get away with not fulfilling this promise or knowing her she would haunt me forever.

Indigo is a genius, anything programming or gaming she is into it, building up her companies from scratch with the help of her friends she is on top of the software world. Although she has not had that many relationships, with her past it seems easier to live alone but when Athena’s brother shows up, Indigo starts getting feelings and reactions she has not had with anyone.

Gideon has searched long and hard for his sister, her thought she had abandoned him all those years ago but now retired from the army and reunited with her her is in a great place. So living with one of Athena’s friends seemed the logical thing to do, so here he is in Indigo’s guest house and with his friendship blossoming with this intriguing lady he starts to development more than friendship feelings.

When there is a threat to Indigo’s life she asks Gideon to be her bodyguard so they can blend in when she is at her conference, can there relationship stay friends or is more brewing under the surface and can they both admit their feelings to each other?

This the second book in the Green St Girls series and although this is the second book I believe it can be read as a stand alone book, as you go through it does explain who certain people are in relation to each other.

Indigo has had struggles and with her past still so raw your heart really goes out for her, trying to run her companies with this attacker after her really weighs a toll on her and you get to see the sassy, badass girl she is which is brilliant to read. Gideon is a quiet force of nature, having his issues have only made this man even more lovably, he is patient and calm with Indigo but when he needs to become the alpha male he is gentle and tries to let her have the ahhhh moment which is great to read.

I love these stories and if you have not read Athena’s and Tru’s story you need to it is brilliant. Now I hope Gwyn’s story is next as she needs some love in her life.

Bared. (A Green St. Girls Romance) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Angela Shirley

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Bared. (Green St. Girls #1)Bared. by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When your best friend demands you to live your life on her death bed, you tend to have to make good on the promises.

Athena is young and successful, being thrown out of your home at 17 and force to live on your own was a hard lesson to learn but in walked the family I choose, my girls, Gwyn, Indigo and Charlie became all the family I needed. Until Charlie got ill and all the money in the world which they had could not save her, so on her death bed in typical Charlie style she made me promise to live life and find love.

Tru is living the life he always wanted, most people say a Professional Pool Player is not really a career but tell his bank that. All he is interested in is the top prize and winning this will catapult him to the top of the listing and more sponsorship and recognition he deserves. Arriving at the venue he spots a beautiful woman who he just needs to get know, when they finally get to chat he discovers that she is the owner of the pub and various other clubs and bars throughout the country.

As Athena gets to know Tru she is more aware that the intial fun she wanted to share is becoming more serious and that Charlie may have had a point of finding a forever person and she may have found them in Tru.

Can they both put there past behind them and embrace the future together?

I loved this book, it is full of emotion and tragedy which is heart-breaking and draws you in from the first chapter. I loved the character of Athena, she is definitely a woman to not mess with, with her passion and ambition was a refreshing read and that said Tru was just enough Alpha to be strong with her but his softer side really was a counter and calming influence to Athena which was lovely.

I loved the secondary characters and they enhanced the story and showed that family can be grown and chosen, with the way they were complete ready to have each other backs and damn the world was brilliantly and engaging to read. Thank you for a brilliant and well written story and can’t wait to read about the Green Street Girls.

Smooth Hoperator (Love on Tap Book 2) by Sylvie Stewart – Review by Angela Shirley

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Smooth Hoperator (Love on Tap, #2)Smooth Hoperator by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Carter had a successful career in politics mapped out for him ever since High School and his first debate, but over the past year he has slowly become disillusion with the whole thing on Capitol Hill. When he discovers his mentor may have sold herself out for money and while trying to understand the dilemma he is in, he overhears a conversation that turns his whole world upside down and has him leaving DC and returning home to hide.

Once at home, he picks up his job with his brother in the Brewery as Brew master all while trying to investigate into what he overheard, but as this is becoming more and more dangerous he needs to be more careful, but researching at the library is becoming more difficult but when the Librarian decides to make him her pet project things are going to turn out ugly and dangerous.

Sunshine has always wanted to be a Librarian, she loves the facts and knowledge that is uncovered under her walls and when she spots a homeless man coming in every couple of weeks, she takes it upon herself to help him with what ever addiction he has, but as time goes on Sunny is drawn into a world of espionage, cover ups and danger, can she survive a) the bad guys and b) the attraction of the stranger in the Library.

Can Carter keep Sunny safe and his family, all while exposing the corruption on Capitol Hill.

Oh my, I love, love, love this author and this story is no different. This is a stand alone story regarding Carter and Sunny and is part of the Love on Tap Series. Carter in the first book was the brooding brother who sneaked around the brewery and not really interacting with anyone, so reading him in this book was a great insight into him as a person. Sunny was just the most brilliant sidekick to him with her optimistic outlook on life against the grey and pessimistic world of Carter where brilliant to read.

I can also appreciate the quirky characters as in Duke, Sunny’s grandfather and Knuckles the spy were hilarious to read and brought a light hearted feel to the story. As always Miller’s antics brought a smile and overall I loved all the secondary characters which just embrace the story and make it what it is.

There are some many questions which I hope are answered in the next books, like does Miller find out who’s following him? Does Gina and Duke have a thing going on? and what’s Lynne up to at college as there has to be a story there.

Thank you for the enjoyment and entertainment of all your stories and look forward to reading the next book and books lol.

Love Bites More (The Darkness & Light Duology, and the Love Bites World) by TL Clark – Review by Angela Shirley

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Love Bites MoreLove Bites More by T.L. Clark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Elan and Arwyn have been friends for years, although there is an attraction they pledged not to enter the urge as this would mess with the dynamic of the friends, until one day all that is thrown out and they discover lust and love with each other and another.

Hassan has travelled with Pryderi and wants to settle in the area, although his background is different to the rest of them he finds peace and connection with Elan. Hassan is not sure what will happen but as his attraction and chemistry grows he gets involved in more than one love, he discovers two.

With the bond pulling them closer, can the pact that Elan and Arwyn made survive the relationship which is on the cards.

This is the first book I have read in this series and this author and I have to say it fascinated me. It can be read as a stand alone as the author makes sure understand the characters as Elinefae and what that entails. The book leads you into a world of pure fantasy and unlocks your imagination in ways I have never really explored.

I loved the characters of Elan and Arwyn as they had a torture start before even adding the complexity of the third male into the equation, although at times I felt the conversations forced it did not take away the overall story. Although this is not normally something I would read necessarily it did hold my interest to the end.

Thank you T Clark for opening my eyes to the world of the Elinefae, witches, dragons and fantasies.

 

Guarding the Crease (The Playmakers Series Hockey Romances Book 9) by G.K. Brady – Review by Angela Shirley

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Guarding the Crease (The Playmakers #9)Guarding the Crease by G.K. Brady
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wyatt Tompkins is in a slump, using his status as a NHL Goalie just a little too much so when his antics are no longer fun and hindering his career he spirals into a slump. With no team anymore and not knowing what he can do to bring him back into the NHL he decides to go out and have a drink with his cousin, Noah. That night changes his life forever.

Serena Lambert has her career on the incline, PR Director of one of the top NHL teams wanting her savvy skills to take her higher until one night she is thrown into the path of the most infamous hockey player she has ever met but as she gets to know him, he starts to work his way into her heart.

When Wyatt asks Serena to help him improve his image, she is reluctant at first but over time the chemistry and attraction is too much to ignore but when two personalities are that different can they find the line in the sand to be together.

I loved this story and another great addition to the series, although this is part of the series you can easily read this as a standalone book.

I must admit when you first meet Wyatt you do think what a complete waste of space, he has caused this on himself and he needs to grow up, but as they story moves along you understand and get to see the real person inside and grow to love him, I know but you do. Serena is a brilliant sassy, independent strong woman, who takes no nonsense from him and calls him on his behaviour which is brilliant to read.

The story was well written, and the main characters really drive the story along which enhanced the reading experience and I was frantically diving in to finish and see what happens in the end. I can’t wait to read more in this series and by this author.

Shadowed Obsession (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Angela Shirley

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Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1)Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kiera O’Ryan is smart, successful and is good at her job, but there is one thing that has her searching the dark corners and causing her to question her sanity she has a stalker. Although she has requested help from the Montana Police they can’t seem to find or locate who the person is. They always feel one step ahead, until she recruits her neighbour to help.

Cade Hartford is ex-forces and working for a Private Military contractor but when his neighbour comes to him to help with her stalker problem, he jumps straight in to help, the only problem is this stalker is always ahead of them and it feels very much like a game of cat and mouse.

Can Cade help Kiera find the culprit and recuse Kiera?

This is the first book I have read from this author and will not be the last, the twists and turns in this book have you at the edge of your seat with anticipation.

The story is well written, and the main characters are well balanced and suit each other brilliantly, the chemistry between them jumps off the page and adds to the flow of the story as the drama builds. The character of Cade is a great alpha male and as I say I love a flawed character and he has his hang-ups along the way, although with the strong female character of Kiera and her strong will and sassy nature this makes a brilliant combination.

As this book can be read as a standalone, I can’t wait for the next book in this series and I believe Mavery Ellscott has just become another author in my very long TBR list.

A Match Made in Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book 2) by Elsa Winckler – Review by Angela Shirley

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A Match Made in Montana (The Millers of Marietta, #2)A Match Made in Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Annie Miller has had tragedy in her life, losing both your parents is a trauma but when you lose them together in the same accident you become lost but knowing she had to look after her brother and sister they decided to make a break and move to a town which held both good memories and a new start for the family.

Marietta was the place that her parents had taken them on holidays and the right place to make a new life, buying the B and B and making it home was all Annie was thinking about. Her sister was getting married in a few weeks and all the arrangements were getting sorted, but Annie worried about the business, she had a few bookings but nothing to make it a living which she needed to do. Although Janie has suggested her godson a big marketing man from Portland, Annie had reservations about working with the handsome man from the big city.

Craig O’Sullivan is becoming disillusioned working for a big firm, with the new contract they have just won meant that a smaller marketing company folded and that does not sit right with him, so when his Aunty Janice calls saying she needs help with his cousin’s wedding plans he sees this as an opportunity to escape the race for a bit and unwind. When he arrives to the small town of Marietta, he is pushed into helping Annie with her marketing strategy for the B and B but once he meets her the sparks fly and he can’t get her out of his head.

They decide to see where these sparks go but can they both agree on the short-term fun or when its time to say goodbye can they or are there hearts too invested in each other.

I loved this story; it was fully of swoon moments and just a good romance from start to finish. This is the first book I read by this author and loved the storytelling that flowed from the page. The character of Annie was lovely and although her confidence had been hit with a shovel by her ex-partner, I loved the willingness in the end to take a chance and go for what she wanted. Craig’s character was a perfect accompany to Annie and although he seemed confident and sure on the outside there was the doubt in him that he would be hurt and abandoned just like his parents had done all those years ago and that giving your heart always meant heartbreak.

The secondary characters were brilliant and enhanced the story and showed the families merging as one, please tell me that Riley and Mitch get together in the end as that chemistry was also jumping off the page and deserves a book of there own lol. Thank you for letting me invade and feel that these people could be my friends to.

A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley Book 1) by Theresa Paolo – Review by Angela Shirley

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A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley, #1)A Toast for Laurent by Theresa Paolo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Laurent has lived in and worked at his families Vineyards for what seems like forever, but getting to his position in the company has taken hard work and determination, although he always felt like he was missing something in his life when his best friend and really love of his life Phoebe left all those years ago.

Phoebe left the small town which had her heart years ago, leaving everything and everyone was one of the hardest decisions he has ever had to make but with all the tragedy that has happen in her life she wants comfort and familiarity and to collect on a promise hopefully Laurent has not forgot about. Leaving him was the hardest thing of all but over the years of roaming the world and not wanting to settle down it always leads her back to Vine Valley and the unconditional love of a man.

Standing there in the tasting room was the scariest thing Phoebe had done but seeing him all the old feeling came flooding back and will he be able to forgive her and help her in this dilemma.

This is the first story I have read by this author, and it was a heartwarming read, the chemistry between the two main characters was a joy to be a part of and the angst and pain felt in some of the conversations were real and to the point. I love a flawed character and Phoebe unfortunately was a product of mental abuse and sheer tragedy in her life, with her only escape was running.

Laurent character was a great counter to Phoebe’s but with his utter loss and being heartbroken when she left not knowing where or why she vanished as imprinted on him and with him wanting to trust and be with her moving forward. I also thought the secondary characters added to the flow and depth of the story.

I can’t wait to read more by this wonderful author and hopefully more in this series.

Grand Slam (Ground Rule Book 3) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Angela Shirley

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Grand Slam (Ground Rule Book 3)Grand Slam by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Heath Bailey is on top of his sport, with his team just winning the Championship and riding high, what more does he want or need but with his friends finding that special someone he feels its time to put his love’ em and leave them attitude behind him and settle down. So, when he is invited to am event at the animal shelter his worst nightmare appears but when after the event he can’t stop thinking of the bossy, rude woman is there something there.

Grace Dyer has her dream job which she loves with all her heart, the only problem is she is only just scrapping by. When she decides to organise an event for the Animal Shelter in walks the cocky, arrogant ball player, Heath Bailey. The man infuriates her and boils her blood but once the event is over, she kind wants him around, but when she meets him again at his sister’s hospital bed there is an attraction which she can’t really pin down but as she gets to know the real him, he starts to get into her heart and her head.

This is the third book in this series and it brilliant just like the other stories in this series. You get to see some of the characters in the other books, but it was lovely to see the interactions and the chemistry between these two in a full story. The book is well written and can be read as a stand-alone story but the other books are brilliant in their own right would make a great addition to you TBR list.

I loved the interaction between Grace and Cash and the understanding that in the end they were perfect for each other. The sassy character of Grace was just what Heath needed to put him in his place and the fact that Grace called his bull and vice a versa was refreshing to read and be a part of. I love the fact that these books make you feel like you in there world with them as a cherished friend and I hope there is another book or two to continue this series.

A Way Out (Rock Star Book 2) by Tami Lund – Review by Angela Shirley

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A Way Out (Rock Star Book 2)A Way Out by Tami Lund
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Maria has decided to get control of her life, divorcing her husband who to be fair she only really married as she thought her mother would approve but as the years have gone on, she has discovered she is bored and has never really been in love. With divorce now final and her ex-husband kicking out of the house with their daughter she has only one place that is safe, her sister Holly’s.

Maria then drive’s to Holly’s only to discover that she is not home but a rather sexy rocker is in her place, once realising that it’s Holly and Sam’s wedding and she should be there, panicking she agrees to stay with Oz and take the trip together, but can she stay away from the sexy rocker or should she just let loose and do something for her for a change.

Oz has agreed to look after Sam and Holly’s house while they are away on honeymoon but when Holly’s sister turns up her has a feeling of protection and attraction towards her and her daughter. Although he has enough in his life looking after his sisters’ children and his mother her is drawn to Maria and Reilly which he can not understand. Swearing against acting on his feelings he is given a great opportunity to go further in the band, but it means that Maria will technically become his boss and those affairs never go well, but can he stay away.

I loved this story of heartbreak but also discovery which had me turning the pages to finish this beautiful tale. Maria’s character in the beginning I felt a bit wishy washy but are the story progressed you saw her come out of her shell and become a strong woman who in the end knew what she wanted. Oz, I have to say has been added to the long list of book boyfriends as his character was so empathic and was also struggling with the internal conversations of being attracted to her but was it right which had me internally shouting “just do it, follow your heart”.

The secondary characters added to the whole flow of the story, and I hope there are another few books along to the to let us into the world of Cash and Travis all but a few. Although this is the second book in this series, I feel this story can be read as a standalone. I look forward to reading more in this series and the others.

Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood Book 1) by A. S. Roberts – Review by Angela Shirley

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Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood #1)Twisted Oath by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Salvatore grow up an orphan but knowing his destiny he strived to take his rightful place in the family but he has to be careful and strategic. Once all his options are in a row he announces himself to his grandfather the underboss of one of the most dangerous mafia families. Being welcomed into the fold his plan is almost complete, when he revenges his mothers kidnapping, his trophy becomes his everything.

Serafina has known her family is part of the family but it has never really affected her with her dreams of becoming a doctor she has her life ahead of her, but there is always the secret she has kept for years. He never approaches, he always stays in the shadow of the rocks of her families beach in Italy but she has a kinship to him that even she can’t explain, ut one day that all changes and she is thrown into the life of the mafia, arranged to marry someone the Don has choose, there is no option she must accept to save her family and although she vows not to love her husband she must go through with it, but when she see him the boy of her childhood a peace comes over her.

Salvatore did not want to fall in love with her but she has woven her way into his heart and he will do anything to protect her.

OMG I have read a few of AS Roberts book but this one went straight to my soul. Salvatore although a strong alpha character has a vulnerability with his total devotion to Sera and to see him pen up in the second part of the story was brilliant and beautiful to read. Sera was such a great equal to him and with her own struggles through the marriage were beautiful also to read.

The story was fast paced and well written, it held my attention till the very last word and could not get enough of it, I had to stay up and finish to see what happened in the end. I loved the secondary character with Mia and Gia being my favourite and I hope to read there stories next.

Thank you for a brilliant start to this series and can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

Deception by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Angela Shirley

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Deception (Central Florida Stories, #1)Deception by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Joe has just come back from a tour which devastated him and his teammates, when IED exploded all, he can see is his friend running toward the bomb to save them but also stop the depression with that fateful letter, Joe’s world is turned upside down.

Now, moved back home and running his families Landscaping business Joe leads a solitary life but when his colleague invites to the local pub, Joe is fed up of being on his own and decides to join him but when he meets the woman who ruined his friend and cause the devastation with made him take his own life, a plan of revenge creeps into Joe’s mind and Hunter becomes the hunted.

Hunter is lost in life, not quite sure where she is going but has the goal to get her son moved from her mother’s clutches to be with her. Although she is not one for relationships, the love them until they want more then she dismisses them and moves on, but when the tall, dark and Alpha walks into the bar her insides call to her to get to know this man, but when she finally gets to be with Joe will she be able to be the submissive woman he requires and needs.

This is the first story I have read by this author, and I enjoyed the book thoroughly, although at the beginning I found it tough to get into once over the initial couple of chapters it was intriguing and flowed well. I loved the character of Hunter, she was sassy and thought she knew who she was, although when Joe started introducing her to certain ways and behaviours her whole mind set needed to change and understood the need to be with Joe.

I always love a good, flawed character and Joe is another one to add to my pile, with his alpha male tendencies and the pure dominance he was great to read as a character. The relationship was lovely to watch as a slow burn and knowing the true reason at the beginning for the relationship was interesting to see the whole love blossom in the end. The ending of the story was brilliant, and I am glad they got there happy ending.

Can’t wait to read the next story and see the sexy Master Kurt’s story.

Undeniable (Central Florida Stories Book 2) by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Angela Shirley

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Undeniable (Central Florida Stories, #2)Undeniable by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Arley has not had the best life so far, when that fateful night happened with her brother, she did not know how she was going to survive it literally but over time her body healed but not her heart, but when night she is kidnapped realising that this is not just a abduction but human trafficking she need to escape and get her life back.

Although escaping the nightmare, Arley may hold the key to stopping the cartel so she is moved to Orlando to hide, until one day she sees someone from her past who she thought had long gone or had forgotten her, but can she put him in danger or throw caution to the wind and let him in her world.

Kurt has always had a soft spot for Arley, as a kid in the neighbourhood he knew what was going on in the house of his best friend but with college Arley’s brother and Kurt drifted further apart until one night he did not recognise the man who just beat up his sister to an inch of her life. Losing track after all these year’s he is surprised to see her in his club. Since coming back from Afghanistan, he is not really interest in the lifestyle but when he sees her behind the bar, he starts to have feelings and wants her to be his. So, when she is in danger can he protect her at any costs.

I loved this story; Kurt had been so tempting in the first book and was glad to get to read his story. They had both suffered so much and just wanted there happy ending and I am so glad it came together in the end. Arley was a brilliant character to match with Kurt and reading their relationship and chemistry blossom and grow was wonderful and brilliant to read.

There are triggers within the story which some people may find hard to read but I feel this shows the strength of character that Arley was and that she needed a strong Alpha to care for her although she rebelled against it at every turn in the end it was a lovely relationship to discover.
I can’t wait to read the next story and see which sexy Dom this relates to.

Twisted Proposal (Central Florida Stories Book 3) by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Angela Shirley

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Twisted Proposal (Central Florida Stories)Twisted Proposal by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ethan Ashford is an enigma, coming from money he has the world open to him, but as a private person he likes to play in private, with his friends they created a world where people can come and play. In a community of Million-dollar houses sits the Nexus club, on the outside a mansion and on the inside a world of BDSM and role play.

Although one night his father asks him to attend a Gala on his behalf, Ethan is not prepared for what is going to happen, there at the bar is his arch nemesis the one woman who he detests and will break, but once getting closer to her he discovers he has made a mistake and it is a relation. Ethan then hatches a plan to seek revenge on the innocent Siena, but when he is inflicting his plan, he does not imagine that she will crawl under his skin and plant herself in his heart.

Siena is just looking for investors when her cousin Joyce invested some money, she was hoping the other half would come from her brother but when she finds out he is broke and owes people monies she is doomed until he walks in and offers a proposition to solve all her problems but the only thing is can she give herself fully to Ethan and become his sub for money.

Ethan has popped up in the other books along the way and I am so glad you get to see him in his full story. Ethan to me has always been coasting along the way not really finding that someone he can totally open to, but seeing how the relationship between the two of them grows from Enemies to lovers is lovely to read. The overall struggle of Ethan in the end to try and reconcile the way he wanted to use her to then understand the feelings for her was brilliant.

I really can’t wait to read the next book.

Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Angela Shirley

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Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2)Sacrifice Bunt by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Zara has her career and her love and leave them attitude but there is only man that has managed to get under her skin is Noah Ashe, since college and him walking in on her in a compromising position and walking away she has had this innate compulsion to fight with him. So when Hannah her best friend asks her to fill in for her in big business meeting will she make it through dinner or kill Noah.

Noah has had feelings for Zara ever since her found her in his apartment in college naked waiting for his room mate, over the years it has become a cat and mouse game with her to annoy her as much as possible his own kind of foreplay, but when she accompanies him to a business deal he cant let his pent up attraction hid anymore and with the single kiss his world is spinning out of control on its axis, but when Zara shuts him down will he get a second chance.

Zara is still dreaming about the kiss but can she break her own rules and decide to give Noah a try or will it end in tears and ruin friendships.

This is the second book in the Ground Rule series and is absolutely brilliant. I am glad that these two characters are the second story as you get a hint of the frustration of these two characters in the first book but they just explode off the page in this book.

I always love a strong female character and Zara is that to a tee but it is always lovely to see the vulnerable side and the fact that she is lonely and that Noah fills that void without her really understanding or knowing that she needed it was brilliant to read. Noah’s character although is tough and strong alpha having flaws with him was lovely to read and be empathic with a male mental health is now coming to the forefront.

Although as I said this is the second book in the series this book can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the first book and get to see the blossoming relationship of Celia and Kyle. Thank you for this story and hope to read more in the future.

Walk Off (Ground Rule Book 1) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Angela Shirley

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Walk OffWalk Off by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Celia is trying to live her life, having a great job and a beautiful daughter but there has always been the secret which has burnt a hole in her heart for years, until at her friend’s wedding her whole world caves in and she is eye to eye with man she loved and gave up for him to follow his career in baseball.

Kyle is excited to see his best friend get married, friends from college he will always be there for Benji but as his flight was delayed, he missed the ceremony but arrives just in time to see a ghost from his past, the woman he has always loved but lost her when he wanted to pursue his career. Can he put the hurt aside and see if there is anything there again or has, she moved on with her life.

As they start to see each other it is becoming difficult to keep the secret of the past, will Kyle forgive Celia for the betrayal, or will Kyle understand why she kept it from him for so long.

I really enjoyed this book and the way the author weaved the story with such ease and brilliance that you feel your invested in these characters from the first word. I loved Celia’s character and the understanding that she let the person she loved go because she knew he would give everything up for her if her discover her secret was heart-breaking and pure selfishness but also suffered eternal gut of not letting her daughter have a relationship with her father.

The relationship between the main characters was brilliant and the chemistry rose off the page with each word, with the interaction of the secondary characters making this a face paced, can’t put down read. This is not the first book I have read by this author and will definitely will not be the last.