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Battling Beckett by T. Christensen – Review by Angela Shirley

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Battling Beckett: A Contemporary Step Brother RomanceBattling Beckett: A Contemporary Step Brother Romance by T. Christensen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Greer is living life under the radar just how she likes it, but when her mother decides to move them into the home of her boyfriend Greer’s life turns into a nightmare, not only a new home, new people but a new school is never good in the senior year but when she starts getting bullied the most unlikely hero comes to her rescue.

Beckett has had his battles but when his father moves in the new flavour of the month, he is determined to show them for the money grabbing woman she is. Beckett has always been an only child and with a new girl added to the mix has made things complicated but when Beckett starts to have feelings towards the interloper and defends her at school, can he really change?

This is not the first book by this author and this book does not disappoint one bit. I love the story and as always, the developed characters within this story. Beckett is a horrible individual in the beginning of this book, and I really did not enjoy the interactions he had with Greer but as always you slowly see him growing as a character and end up good in the end.

Greer’s character was a brilliant counter to Beckett, although at times you think she is a quiet mouse, don’t be fooled she ends up being a tiger and shows her true feelings as the story goes on. The story flows brilliantly and although this is a young adult story, you don’t feel this within the writing.

Master Romano (Masters of the Consulate Book 4) by Sylvia Black – Review by Angela Shirley

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Master RomanoMaster Romano by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Romano is part of a long line of master’s who have dealt with dealings for year’s but when he is entrusted to sort out the centuries old land feud with the witches what could go wrong. Well, that’s until he meets the one witch who can bring down his walls and possible the consulate.

Raven is from a longline of witches, driven to get back what was taken from them centuries ago, determined to help the coven with trying to get close to the Vampires can she get what is rightfully hers and the covens. Although determined she was not expecting to have feelings towards one of the men that she had vowed to destroy.

This is the fourth book in this series, you can read this book comfortable as a standalone as each book in the series follows on of the master vampires, although some of the other book overlap there is enough detail within the book to be able to follow the story comfortably.

This is not my usual genre I read but after being recommended the first book I could not out it down, this book is just the same. I have to say the writing draws you in and makes this world believable and as you engage with the characters, I feel that you are a part of the story and world.

I love the push and pull between the two main characters was just great to read, they complement each other brilliant. This is my favourite book so far; I loved the character of Raven being so strong willed and determined to prove that she could follow her conviction and also try to understand the feelings she had towards Romano, a man she was brought up to hate.

I can’t wait to read the next instalment in this series.

In Plain Sight (Logan McKenna Mystery Series Book 8) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Angela Shirley

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In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Logan is now living a new life, with marrying Ben and moving to Oregon she is clam and relaxed. With this new life comes new pleasure and although she still enjoys her beloved violin, she has taken up running in the morning through the beautiful scenery of the Oregon coast.

This then gives Logan an idea to volunteer at the local wildlife rescue centre and while enjoying the job and caring for the magnificent creatures there she becomes embroiled within an investigation of a co-worker who she found dead within the autopsy suite, and in typical Logan style is drawn into the drama and thriller that finds her the target of the killer.

I have read all the books in this series and yet again this book is amazing. I love the character of Logan as she is strong, determined and tries to find justice for though who cannot, this book delves further into the relationships Logan hold dear to her and I loved the twists and turns with each word written and page turned.
Although I believe this can be read as a stand-alone book, it maybe advisable to read the others just for some point of references and to see how this character has developed through the series but as I say this is not a necessity to enjoying this story. With these stories I always feel like I am a secondary character walking through the details with Logan and being engaged with each turn of the page.

Yet again this is a wonderful thriller and I hope that they continue so we can see more of the growth of these wonderful characters.

Jake (Billionaire Blind Dates Book 1) by Toni Denise – Review by Angela Shirley

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Jake (Billionaire Blind Dates Book 1)Jake by Toni Denise
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jake is fed up with the dating pool in his circle, he has always been the one night stand kind of guy, but when his friend invests in a blind dating restaurant Jake becomes intrigued and his friends decide to choose his dates.

Lauren has had her fair share of wealthy, up themselves and treats woman like commodities so when her friend and boss decides to set her up on a blind date, it can go one of two ways and Lauren is hoping she will not regret.

This is the first book I have read by this author and found this book charming and well written. The character of Jake although screams Alpha male is smoothed around the edges and offers a great insight into his world, building the relationship with Lauren was lovely to read. Although at first I thought the character of Lauren seemed to be a not so confident woman as the story continues she becomes more confident and a great partner to Jake.

The secondary characters were brilliant and would love to read stories involving these people in the next books in this series.

I’m Not Your Difference (Fitz Series Book 4) by Theresa Sederholt – Review by Angela Shirley

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I'm Not Your Difference (Fitz, #4)I’m Not Your Difference by Theresa Sederholt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Andy is struggling with losing the love of his life but gaining a child he would do anything for, but when life gets complicated, can Andy truly find the balance he requires to feel normal again.

Stephen has love Andy from the beginning even when they received the devastating news of his diagnoses but Stephen feels that adopting a child could leave them lost and pressure which he feel Andy does not need, so making the hard decision to walk away and leave the family unit is devastating but when a threat is found, can Stephen really walk away from the man he loves?

This as all of them can be read as a stand alone book but it would be advisable to read the first and third book to have some understanding regarding the main characters in this book. Andy is a lovely character who is feeling lost and slowly feeling he is becoming his diagnose, due to Parkinson he is being sheltered and wrapped in cotton wool which is feeding the demise of his self esteem, so when he decides to adopt Stella the dynamic in the relationship between his husband changes and evitable ends in separation, they only problem is neither is convinced.

The story also gets Spicer when Fitz is brought in to try and find a serial killer who is killing gay men, so when his brother is in the cross hair it is a race against time to try and find the killer before anyone else is hurt.

This story is full of the usual thrill of the chase which is now associated with a Fitz book and this does not disappoint. I always love the way that the author writes in a multi point of venue and you get to see in the minds of all the characters and piece together the mystery and twists. I have to say this was my favourite book so far as you got to delve in the relationship of Andy and Stephen who all along has seemed so loving and caring but as all relationships has had there struggles. I hope this series continues and if so can’t wait to read the next thrilling instalment.

Silent Innocence (Fitz Series Book 2 ) by Theresa Sederholt – Review by Angela Shirley

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Silent Innocence (Fitz, #2)Silent Innocence by Theresa Sederholt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fitz and MJ are on holiday chilling before they welcome their first child but work is never far behind, so when his boss calls him to have a look through a case he can not resist, but although it is only a quick look he ends up being embroiled in the case when he meets the 5 year old he can’t leave alone.

She is lost and alone, but her mom should have been there but when she is a weird environment, she sees him who is kind and I trust he will find her mother.

This story is a stand alone and is a brilliant story from the first chapter. The characters as in the first one are brilliantly and well developed and really enhance the book and drive the story along. I loved the character of Fitz in the first story and he does not disappoint in this book. He is dedicated to finding the mystery and reuniting the mother with her daughter, although the story delves into the darker side of life Fitz tries to strive to help.

You also get to see the relationship between him and MJ grow from strength to strength with the pressures of work and relationships.

I can’t wait to read the next book to see where there relationship goes and what Fitz will be involved in in the future.

It Will Always Be Us (Fitz Series Book 3 ) by Theresa Sederholt – Review by Angela Shirley

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It Will Always Be UsIt Will Always Be Us by Theresa Sederholt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fitz is now retired but still wanting the thrill of the mystery he and his friends decide to help people who need helping, so when of his friends needs answers he is willing to jump in and find the answers they require.

Bailey is lost, she does not understand why very one close to her are holding something back, so when she decides to get Fitz involved to help her uncover the secrets, should she have kept them in the dark rather than showing them the light.

This is the third book in this wonderful series and this one does not disappoint. You can read this book as a stand alone but unlike the second book their are extra characters which appeared in the first book which you may like to have some context with so reading the first book may be beneficial to you.

I loved the twists and turns of this book and seeing the crew together with friends and family was a brilliant addition to drive the story along with interactions and the sub dramas which happen along the way. The character of Fitz is a great multi level character that offers and drive within the story which you are happy to go along with and see the drama through his eye. You also have the character of MJ who is always there in the background grounding all the main characters and is also a complex character herself.

This story is complex and is well written to have you charging through to help Fitz find the mystery to help Bailey discover the truth and it is a great story.

I can’t wait to delve back again into the world of Fitz and MJ in the next book in this series.

Uniquely Mine (Fitz Series Book 1) by Theresa Sederholt – Review by Angela Shirley

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Uniquely Mine (Fitz, #1)Uniquely Mine by Theresa Sederholt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There is a serial killer on the loose in New York and Fitz is on the case, but when the case turns more closer than home. When things start escalating can Fitz protect his family and solve the case before anyone else gets hurt.

Mark is honing his skills but when she comes into his life there is no one else who can quench the desire within him, but she is protected so he has to be skilful try and make her his.

This was the first book I had read by this author and it was brilliantly written with just the right twists and turns to keep you engaged in the book from the first word to the last. I loved the character of Fitz he was flawed and had depth to hold your interest. I only thing I had an issue with is I felt the end of the story was a bit rushed, this did not distracted from the story but for me just a little of a let down.

I loved the different point of views and looking into their little bit of the world and how each mind worked and perceive what was happening in the others.

This is a brilliant book and can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

Thief (Popov Bratva Book 4) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Angela Shirley

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Thief (Popov Bratva #4)Thief by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am part of Bratva royalty, good at my job nothing fazes me, until one car, one red head and my world may come crumbling around me if I don’t not do something about it. Although I live my life in the shadows and she is a celebrity who thrives in the light, can this be anything more than attraction?

Leah Hart is the country’s sweetheart but what lies beneath the surface are secrets which if anyone found out would ruin her, but when she tries to stop someone stealing her car, she is not prepared for the rollercoaster of emotions and feelings that are brought to the surface within this encounter. The only problem is he is not the type of person she should be with but when have emotions ever been easy.

I have to say this book had me griped from the first word to the last, the writing was brilliant, and the story flowed with chemistry and action which kept your interest throughout. I must admit I am a sucker for a bad boy especially a Mafia bad boy and the character of Dom does not disappoint, with his broody, hidden in the dark persona just added to the mystery of him and learning about him enhanced the story along the way. The character of Leah was a great half to him, I loved the sassy nature of the character and that she was not afraid to push against the boundaries that Dom has stacked up for his self which added another layer to the story.

Although this is the fourth book in the series I read this quite easily as a stand alone book, although I can imagine that the secondary characters within the story have either there own stories or are getting there own stories in this series and to be honest it does not take a lot for me if I really like a series to add the previous books to my every growing TBR list lol. I can’t wait to read more books by this author and thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Fairly Royal (The Fair Series Book 4) by Grace Grahme – Review by Angela Shirley

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Fairly Royal (Fair, #4)Fairly Royal by Grace Grahme
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Peter is ruled by pomp and circumstance, having to act a certain way and having your whole life planned out is not the best solution in life, but when he needs to find someone to spend his life with, can his best friends sister be the answer to his prayers.

Anna has known Peter all her life but when he asks for help, how can she refuse its only going to be for a short time, can she put up with him for as long as this deal will last, probably?

I love a good enemy to lover romance as the story slowly burns and the chemistry builds up til they can’t keep there hands off each other and heats the story up. This story is no different although sometimes the characters can be quite wooden and you can see the structure the author writes but not with Anna and Peter. I loved how the author wrote these two beautiful characters, they had depth and you truly felt the chemistry building between them.

Peter although through his public persona is a totally different character which was wonderful to see Anna chip away at was brilliantly to read. Anna’s character was a great compliment to Peter’s as she had no heir or grace’s and somethings that she said with no regard had me laughing out loud. The story flowed beautifully and was a great book to read.

I had not read the first three books but this did not deflect from the story of Peter and Anna, it probably in all honesty peaked my interest to start ready the series from the beginning lol.

I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.

 

Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes (Notebook Mysteries Book 4) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Angela Shirley

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes (Notebook Mysteries book #4)Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As Emma carries on from the third book, she is thrown into the world of bank robbers, while trying to find them they are pushed into trying to survive a horrific train wreck, but can they live a quiet life or get bored and want more adventures, you need to read to find out.

Emma and Jeremy have settled into life, but Emma is becoming increasing bored and with her new hobby scouring the papers for cases life will inevitable get more interesting, as Emma starts a case her time becomes more and more taken up and engages Jeremy to help with a second case but when there is a twist and both cases become entangled can the duo work to solve the cases.

There is just something about these stories where you can just let your self indulge within the pages and just let your imagination go wild. Emma as a character is brilliantly written and already the story is set within the 1800’s there is a modern feel to the character. Her relationship with Jeremy has grown in each book and that the feelings shown in each story feels you are on the growth with them and are invested in the outcome.

The story as always was well written and has you intrigued and involved with ever twist and turn which comes your way. This can be read as a stand-alone book but to be fair it is probably better if you read the first three books as you get to understand the dynamic of the characters and the progression they have made. I hope this series continues with more adventures and twists, can wait.

Notebook Mysteries ~ Change and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries Book 3) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Angela Shirley

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries book #3)Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Emma receives a strange request that previous client has left a inheritance and that she needs to get to New York to review the business and papers. So, a trip is organised, and she invites Jeremy along were they start to become closer and need to understand how their relationship will develop as they are locked in a society which frowns upon co-habitation without marriage.
They are thrown into task along the way which uncovers more than they are expecting but allows Emma to continue with her business and to expand her team, but when a new case lands which has them looking into murder, kidnapping and much more, can they solve the case and also help out a friend in need all trying to navigate their feelings for each other, you will need to read.

I love this series, Emma’s character is a kick ass woman in an era of conservative views and propriety, but the author navigates this with a understanding and not patronising, this story is well written and draws you into the mysteries as you follow Emma within the story. This story is full of action and intrigue and with the added aspect of Jeremy the love interest it keeps you reading till the last page. I love the interaction between the character of Jeremy and Emma as they are trying to try to have a relationship, they both would like but trying to bypass the traditions of society is challenging within their relationship but is relatable to society today in a way.

This the third book in the series and although I believe you could read as a stand-alone story there are some recurring characters from the other books and history which may be useful in this next instalment but as I say not necessary for your enjoyment in this story. I would recommend this book if you liked the thrill of a mystery with a ton of action and twists and turns which have you feeling you are involved in the action.

Can wait to read the next story in this brilliant series.

 

Rivals (Mafia Elite Book 7) by Amy McKinley – Review by Angela Shirley

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Rivals (Mafia Elite, #7)Rivals by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mia needs to escape before its too late, but the only problem is she needs protection, the only solution is one of the Five families and him. Nico is the only one who can help but how can she get him to agree to the scheme she has going on or will she be left to the wolves and disappear.

Nico is the quiet, dark and dangerous brother within the Five Families not looking to find a wife but when Mia crashes into his world everything changes, can he close his heart and believe its just business or will he fight to the death for her.

I have to say I have been waiting for this story to come along since the first couple of books I read in this series. Nico has always been the enigma in the background showing pockets of his life and history only wetting the appetite until now and oh my what a story.

This could be read as a stand alone but there are sections which and overall knowledge of the series would be helpful to link various characters and history but it is not essential but really this series is amazing so I would recommend all of the books to read. The character of Mia is brilliant, strong and resilient to be thrust into the world of the Five Families, with the first interaction of the two characters just as stormy as the skies around them just was a brilliant start to the book.

Getting to know Nico abit more was the guiding light for me as he is my favourite character in this series with his mystery and pure sex appeal, oh my!!! I loved although Mia is younger in age she is just as strong and spunky to match the ferrous character of Nico and does not take any crap from him at all, they are great together.

Although there are twists and turns and revelations within this story that are great, I can wait to read more from Amy in the future.

Shake Down (First Coast Thriller Book 1) by Armand Rosamilia – Review by Angela Shirley

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Shake Down (First Coast Thriller Series)Shake Down by Armand Rosamilia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Clayton is lost at the moment, with his life as he knows it gone, losing his family and job as a police officer to his gambling addiction is there ever a way to get back on the right track. Until he gets a job with Jimmy within the Repo business until things start becoming weird and people are going missing.

Can Clayton get back his life and find out what is going on when people start going missing and he tries to help the local force, will he put himself and his family in the middle of something he can’t get out of.

This is the first book I have read by this author and have to say I pleasantly surprised with the story and the drama written with the pages. The characters are well developed and drive the story as the twists and turns adds to the overall intensity of the story.

I love a good flawed character trying to make good and Clayton is up there with the best, the way he is trying to get back his family and trying to resolve some his past is brilliant to read and you are invested from the first chapter as he is a likable rogue. The secondary characters complete the story and drive through to make you want to keep turning the pages to read what will happen next.

I definitely recommend this book and would love to read more of this series and the author in the future.

Someone Exactly Like Me (Wounded Hearts Series Book 1) by Debbie Cromack – Review by Angela Shirley

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Someone Exactly Like Me (Wounded Hearts, #1)Someone Exactly Like Me by Debbie Cromack
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Destiny has had her fair share of broken relationships and has her heart caged to not get hurt again. Although as a writer she is in a slump and needs to help the creative ideas flow, but they are just not there, when her best friend takes her out for there traditional birthday celebrations, Destiny is strangely drawn to Nico, but will her playboy ways stop her from following the attraction they both feel.

Niccolo has rose to fame in the movie world but is determined to break America, the Italian playboy has swept the news, but he has always just wanted to settle down and have a family. Although being burnt terrible in his past, he has always shut off his feelings and the hook ups he has now are to satisfy his sexual needs rather than emotional, until he met Destiny.

This is a great book, well developed and written with emotion and depth of the characters which added to the overall experience of the story.

I loved the chemistry between the two characters as well and it was great to be a part of the getting to know side of the relationship rather than gun hoe and in bed with each other within the first couple of chapters. They both have had monumental heartbreak and try to move forward from but the way the story weaved within there doubts and concerns added depth to the story and draws you into the characters even more.

If you are looking for a raunchy, sex driven book then this may not be the book for you, but if you want to get to know the characters and walk through a journey of discovery and rediscover trust and loyalty within a relationship then this story is for you 100%, you will not be disappointed at all. I can’t wait to read Cali’s story in the next book in this series.

Burned by Fire (Firehouse 13 Book 4) by Danielle Jacks – Review by Angela Shirley

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Burned by Fire (Firehouse 13, #4)Burned by Fire by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sol has been through a traumatic rescue; people deem him as a hero, but he is feeling lost. Now trying to find a way back into life since being medically retired he is in a slump; he is drinking heavily to numb the pain but when he receives and intervention and is forced to speak to a therapist, he starts discovering himself again and there is life after the Fire Service.

Ember is new in the firehouse and loving every minute, her life is her career, and nothing is going to pull her from the focus, but when she sees her old mentor throwing his life away, she is determined to show him the way out. Although she is willing to do anything to help a friend, she has always had a secret crush on him, but will he see her as the woman she had become or the kid he mentored in the Fire Service.

This story was a well written and developed story. It is not often that the mental health card is given to the male character in the story, but this is written with respect, strength and the willing to go and try to sort out the demons going through the main character.

The chemistry between the two main characters was brilliantly and although this is my first book within this series this can be read as a standalone story. I loved the interaction of the secondary characters which flowed with the story and bringing the main characters more depth and growth as the story went on. I find these sorts of series brilliant with different authors perspectives on main theme is both enjoyable and refreshing.

I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in this series and more books by this author as well.

Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder Book 2) by CJ Cartwright – Review by Angela Shirley

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Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder #2)Body Checked by C.J. Cartwright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bridger has the reputation of the playboy hockey star, and he is happy with that, the self-proclaimed bachelor but when his persona is affecting his career, he become more adamant to try and shed the fast life image and concentrate on growing up and being much more. So, when he is asked to set up a team charity calendar, how hard can it be?

Tia has had enough of rich playboys, after the last one tried to destroy her, she is wanting a quiet life, until she is plunged into the world of hockey. Her boss is shooting the calendar for the Astoria Bay Hockey Team and when she runs into Bridger her world goes slightly off centre, the chemistry between them is great but he irritates the crap out of her and he is in the “Playboy” category which she is wanting to stay away from, but can she?

I love a good hockey story, and this does not disappoint, the interaction between the main character is great to read. I love a good frenemies story and the chemistry between these two is electric, with the insecurities that comes from both main characters just adds another dimension in to a great story. I loved that this book can be read as stand alone within the series and I can guarantee that I will be reading more in this series and by this author.

Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie – Reviewed By Angela Shirley

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LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Levi has been forced to return home to help run the family ranch and to look after his little sister with his brothers when his dad and stepmother died. They are all trying to find the balance in their lives but when an old military friend of Levi’s asks for a favour, he is more than happy to help protect the person in his charge.

Bella is scared, she put herself in a position of no return with a man who is violate and evil, when she receives a way out, she takes it with both hands but when she lands on the doorstep of Levi and his family, can she keep the pretence up with the family or will she break as they openly welcome her into the family. Plus, can she also hide the chemistry between her and Levi?

This is the first time I have read a book but this author and will not be the last. I enjoyed the way the story flowed, and the characters were well developed, the contrast between Levi and Bella was a lovely dimension with the higher society in which Bella lived with the coldness of her family to the honest and warmth that flowed through Levi’s family was great to read.

With the secondary characters this brought the world to life, and I am desperate to see if the author continues the series with the other brothers whose stories are there for the taking and to also see more into the future of Bella and Levi. I cannot wait.

Saved by Love (Bellevue Bullies Book 7) by Toni Aleo – Review by Angela Shirley

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Saved by Love (Bellevue Bullies #7)Saved by Love by Toni Aleo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Evan Alder is one of the Alder greats within the hockey world, although Evan is not as confident as his twin brother so decides for his mental health to medically retire from Hockey. With this decision done he then looks at what does he really want. So, when he decides to go to school and become a sports therapist, he has anxiety where this is the right path for him.

When he arrives he is then assigned the RA position in the Hockey house which is giving him anxiety but also he is assigned as the sports therapist to the Gymnastics team, the only problem is he has no clue about the sport, but as time goes on he does both jobs to his best ability but when a certain girl catches his eye, can he keep the job and his love life separate?

Callie has struggled to get where she is and being enrolled into one of the top schools for gymnastics, so when the new term starts in walks someone, she thought she would ever see, Evan Alder. Although Evan has been a fantasy to her for years as her “dad” plays with his twin brother, so she must walk carefully regarding pursuing him, until they see him running and then all bets are off and Callie declares to the girls that he is hers for the taking.

As Evan and Callie get closer can they maintain a relationship or will other factors knock them off course.

This is the first book I have read in this series or by the author and I can confirm that this can be read as a stand-alone book, although it has piqued my interest to read the series from the beginning and the other spin off series to see how the other characters got together.

The two main characters were brilliantly developed, and I like the fact that the main male character struggled with his mental health and issues which normally are portrayed by female characters in books. The chemistry between the two of them charged off the page and was crafted beautifully within the story. I loved the way that Callie’s life starts off rough and with her sister’s sheer grit and determination to get her were she is has given Callie and great role model to follow and then with Nico’s fatherly protection it was lovely to finally see her have love in both a relationship and family. The story was well developed and flowed easily and held my interest until the end.

I look forward to reading more books by this author and hopefully add a few more book boyfriends to my ever-growing list.

e Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising Book 1) by Nadia Han – Review by Angela Shirley

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The Mastermind : A Brother's Best Friend Romance (WaterFyre Rising Book 1)The Mastermind : A Brother’s Best Friend Romance by Nadia Han
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Remi is living in a dark place, a billionaire who has strived to be the best and hide his past, but he has always had a core group of friends who have been there through all the issues with his dad and stepfamily especially his bully of a stepbrother.

He always felt safe and wanted at his friend Graysen’s house, with Mrs Wu always trying to feed them up and show warmth and love he did not have at his own home. As the year’s went on and college came and went Remi built his empire up around the Waterfront of his youth, but now will his past come back and the darkness seep deeper.

Audri Wu has always been the only girl in the group of boys that were constantly at her house, but she has always had a soft spot for Remi. While working at her job she becomes the target of harassment, although she has been to HR nothing really gets sorted but then suddenly there is an announcement that the company has been sold and in walks Remi, but as the chemistry between the two of them intensifies can they make a relationship work or will the past shatter it wide open.

This is the first time I have read anything by this author, and I loved the story and the characters. Remi and Audri’s characters complimented each other brilliantly with the dark and light. I love a forbidden love story and with the twist within this story just had me turning the pages to get to the thrilling parts, although I enjoyed the story it did in my opinion took a while to get going but I understand the backstory had to be told as this led them to this part.

The secondary characters where also a brilliant added addition and hope that this series grows so we get to see the other friends’ lives expanded and delve into the world of the Waterfyre in more detail.

Love is Worth Fighting for (The Meraki Series Book 3) by Effie Kammenou – Review by Angela Shirley

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Love is Worth Fighting forLove is Worth Fighting for by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

All Krystina wants to do is travel the world and be a famous blogger but when her Loukas her childhood nemesis decides to go along with her, as she goes through, she has no breathing room as he is constantly with her all the time. When they discover challenges long the way the most unlikely person helps her through Loukas.

So, when Krystina takes on the challenge to find her grandfather will they uncover the secrets of the past and locate the lost family member or will they be dragged into problems they never envisioned.

This is the third book in the series and follows the third sister Krystina, although this can be read as a standalone story it would be good to have some of the crossover from the first two books as back story but is not necessary. As always, the story is well written and with the twists and turns in the story will keep you turning the pages to the end.

I loved the character of Krystina in the other stories, and I think Loukas is the right character to compliment Krystina although at first, she does not think so. The emotion and the turmoil in the story follow brilliantly and you feel the journey as if you are there with the character along the way. It is lovely how the relationship is a slow burn and that the reaction of finally realising that they are destined for each other is lovely to read.

I can’t wait to read the next book.

PREMEDITATED: A Trust Betrayed, Lives Sabotaged, A Love Undaunted (Agents of Justice Book 2) by Susanna Haymond – Review by Angela Shirley

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PremeditatedPremeditated by Susanna Haymond
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When the people who are trying to stop the push of drugs onto the streets start getting symptoms of drug use, they realise someone is trying to sabotage the work they are trying to do to help the young kids.

Anne is one of the crusaders who are trying to rid the streets of the evil drugs, but she gets embroiled in the sabotage but with help from her friends can she try and find out who is the main man and stop the sabotage before it goes too far.

In the meantime, DEA Agents are trying to close in on drug related crimes, Josh and Grant have been working the case a while but when things start happening to Anne who is Grant’s ex-partners fiancé it starts to become personal, and can they race against time to find out who is behind it all.

This is the first book I have read by this author, and I really enjoyed the flow of the story and the relationships between the main characters, although this is the second book in this series it did not distract from this story, and I believe this could be read as a standalone book.

If you are looking for a good thriller this book is for you, with the twists and turns in the story will have you racing through the book to discover who is the mastermind behind it all and that can the main characters save the day. Although there are some religious aspects to the story this does not distract but adds another layer to the complex story and you learn about the character of Anne and where her values come from. If you love a good thriller and want to immersed yourself into the story, then this is the book for you.

Victoriously Yours (Titans of Manhattan Book 4) by Anise Storm – Review by Angela Shirley

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Victoriously Yours (Titans Of Manhattan #4)Victoriously Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jonas is powerful, a Titian of business and as all powerful men he works and plays hard. Seen as a playboy, one night speciality is this really the life for him. As his friend’s are starting to fall in love, can Jonas leave his playboy ways behind and find that special someone who can see under the armour and find the true, Jonas.

Mackenzie is striving to be the best chef she can be and needs to impress to get the job of a lifetime, working in one of the best kitchens in the hotel world would be the pinnacle of her career. So when she enters the room and sees a blast from her past, the old hurt and feelings come back but she is determined to play the game to win the prize, the only thing is she is playing with the master and will she get hurt again.

I must admit I was waiting for Jonas’s story since the beginning, you have this knee jerk dislike for this character as in each of the previous books he has always come across as arrogant and privileged, but this story really opens the character of Jonas and loved every minute of it. You know with this author that the story will always pact a punch and with a well-developed and written story this book does not disappoint.

I loved the character of Mackenzie, she was a strong woman, who in the past has had heartbreak and determined to not let this be her defining moment in life. The relationship between the two of them was heart-breaking with the truths come out. I love the way the author draws you into the story and you feel like you are living the book with the main characters. I can’t wait for the next book.

Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove Book 1) by Shannon Nikole – Review by Angela Shirley

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Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove #1)Finding Starlight by Shannon Nikole

Ellawyn is running from her past, and stumbles into a quiet town which she believes she can live to rebuild herself. While there she spends most of her time is a little bookstore, Starlight Books and becomes friends with the owner Benji. While befriending the older store owner he decides to tell her his secret and that he will not be able to look after the store for much longer, Ellawyn offers to help run the store with Benji’s grandson Beckett.

Once Beckett arrives Ellawyn feels drawn to this man but with her history and the walls she has built up, will she ever feel like she can have a relationship again?

This is the first story I have read by this author. I enjoyed the small-town vibe, and the characters are well developed and written. Ellawyn’s character has been through a lot in her short life, and you feel the reluctance in her trusting anyone especially a man is heart-breaking. With the twists and turns of the story you feel drawn along to help them find out what is going on.

Although, I did feel in places the story was rushed and tried to get you to the conclusion too quickly and then others I felt could have been expanded a little more to give more back story to the characters, but although in saying this it did not deter me away from the book or the story. I would love to read the next instalment in this series and see what happens next.

Squid (Moto X Book 5) by Brooke May – Review by Angela Shirley

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SquidSquid by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Levi Crowe is a player and man-child, living a privileged life with a trust fund income he can just do whatever he wants. People flock to him or shall we say women and he welcomes them with a night of passion with no strings. Although deep down he is scared by the be trail of an ex-girlfriend and has his heart on locked for a long time until one night all that changes when he discovers the women who turns him down.

With this shock he is then plunged into shock when his parents have also had enough and take away all his money and make him go to work at the family law office, Levi thinks this is a bad idea until he turns up and does not have his corner but is an assistant but what is even more unreel is that the lawyer he is assisting is no other than Kindle James the woman who turned him down in the bar.

Things become interesting and can Kindle reignite the fire and ambition deep in Levi to be a great lawyer and a better person?

This is he first story I have read by this author and it was well written and the characters where well developed. To say I was not a fan of Levi in the first few chapters would have been an understatement, his constant whining and pitiful destruction was not my cup of tea and to be honest I was his friends I would have told him to do one, lol.

Then, half way through the book you started to see the true character of Levi which was great to read, although I wish this had started earlier, the way the author wrote the two main characters weaving through there feelings was brilliant but I felt at times that it was a bit rushed.

Saying that the storyline was brilliant and it did have me deeply engrossed wanting to find out will they, won’t they but unfortunately I am staying mum and you will have to read the book to find out. I would like to read more of this author and especially see the stories if their are regarding the secondary characters in the book and how there relationships started and bloomed.

Tickety Tock (Wicked Warriors MC Arizona Chapter) by Manda Mellett – Review by Angela Shirley

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Tickety Tock: Wicked Warriors MC Arizona ChapterTickety Tock: Wicked Warriors MC Arizona Chapter by Manda Mellett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dwarf is part of a MC gang; woman are always attracted to the bad boy as he thought but it seems he is always the stepping stone to his other brothers. As he has been trod on too many times, he is a little jaded when it comes to woman, but he all he wants is to settle down and have someone love him for him.

One night while riding back he is distracted by a shadow running out of the side of the rode, trying to miss the animal he crashes and wreck not only his bike but his ankle. Upon trying to find what he missed he discovers much to his angry a woman.

Struggling to try to understand why this woman would run away he approaches with anger and frustration to notice that this woman is physically shook up and then trying to understand why she has run, when he hears her story his protective nature kicks in and tries to help her with her story.

But can you really believe in ghosts, and do they exist?

I loved this book; it was not your typical MC Romance from this author, but the paranormal twist made this story even more intriguing, and I could not put it down. The story weaves with twists and turns making you want to carry on reading more and more. I loved the fact that Raven was the perfect woman for Dwarf and although there first meeting was rocky, how he then protector her just made your heart swell with his support and utter trust of this woman.

The characters are endearing and relatable, which just drives this well written story along. This is not my first book by this author and this will definitely not be my last.

As Close to Perfect by Maria Jane – Review by Angela Shirley

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As Close to PerfectAs Close to Perfect by Maria Jane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bree has had her fair share of bad dates, wrong men and is just fed up with the whole dating scene. So, she makes a pledge with herself to not date JOCKS, no dating any athletes in general but while this is on the cards, she is now looking for the perfect mister right if he ever exists.

Nate is the perfect guy for Bree only he is a tennis coach, and he is in the friend’s category, but as time goes on, she starts to see him more than a friend and can she give in to the attraction and find the perfect one.

This is the first story I have read by this author and found it joyful and an easy read, the story was well written and flowed brilliantly. The book takes on the narrative of the main character Bree and meanders through her failed relationships and various rules she has for dating until she starts to grow closer to Nate. The story delves into different cultures and ethnicity and with the clever insight has thought provoking quotes.

The chemistry for the two main characters was jumping off the page and I when they finally realise, they are meant to be together you certainly get a glow inside. This is a stand-alone story and I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future.

Deadly Sommer (Nora Sommer Caribbean Suspense Book 1) by Nicholas Harvey – Reviewed by Angela Shirley

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Deadly Sommer (Nora Sommer Caribbean Suspense #1)Deadly Sommer by Nicholas Harvey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nora has just started a new job with the Royal Cayman Police thinking the job will be relaxed and different pace to life, but when Nora and her partner are thrown into a kidnapping thing start to get interesting.

While Nora starts investigating, she is drawn into the kidnapper’s sick plan and she become a porn in the crime, having to race against time to try and solve four challenges set by the bad guy, the only thing is if she fails any then the kidnap victim will have things done to her, so Nora must try and solve the clues and the challenges to find this sick man.

In the end, can she find out who has drawn her into this game, and can she survive?

This is the first book I have read by this author, and I really enjoy the well written story. I had a hard time relating to the character of Nora but as the story progressed, I found my feelings changing and becoming more involved with the character. If you love a good murder mystery than this is a story for you, with twists and turns which will have you glued to the book and have you reading into the early morning trying to finish a chapter.

The story if impactful and as the author drip feeds the clues to you it is a great page turner, I don’t really like stories which you know the murderer in the first five chapters and then you are constantly cursing the lead character, but this book did not give me those vibes at all.

This is a great beach book, where you can just get absorbed into the world and forget your reality for a bit. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series and see which next adventure Nora gets to go on.

Everything to Me (Playing for Keeps Book 2) by Lauren Fraser – Review by Angela Shirley

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Everything to Me (Playing for Keeps Book 2)Everything to Me by Lauren Fraser
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kendall has fantasied over her brother’s best friend for years, as a awkward teenager who was always in the middle of them she only dare to look from a far, but now grown up she has an opportunity to put that attraction to the test.

Pete’s best friend has asked him if he minds putting up Kendall while she is working in the city, when Pete agrees he is unaware that Kendall has turned into a sexy, smart woman who knows what she wants. So, when she puts a proposal on the table will he give in and break the “Bro-code” rules or will a little bit of fun with no strings fly under the radar.

Although as both get to know each other as adults’ feelings start clouding the fun and can both just walk away when the week is over.

This is the first book I have read by this author, and I thoroughly enjoyed the light-hearted, easy read story. The two main characters are well suited to each other and the way they interact is refreshing and just heart-warming. I liked how the story builds along the way and the dilemmas both have when realise the feelings are deeper than they both initially thought. It is great that this is part of the series and hope we get to see them in the next book.

I can’t wait to read the book in this series.

Collateral Damage (Mafia Elite Series Book 6) by Amy McKinley – Review by Angela Shirley

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Collateral Damage: A Second Chance Mafia Romance (Mafia Elite Book 6)Collateral Damage: A Second Chance Mafia Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Trey La Rosa has no time for finding a woman, with his busy Hospital life and then additional family commitments he has no time to sleep but when he attends a charity function and spots her, he can not take his eyes of the beautiful women in front of him.

Hailey Carmichael is from a privileged background, family money and a image to uphold is exhausting when you aren’t really right for the world but when she discovers a secret within her own family she decides to take things into her own hands, but when she meets the dangerously good looking surgeon all bets are off.

While Trey is dragged into trying to help Hailey his feelings grow more and more but with his family and enemies losing another woman to the family feud is not on the cards, but can he stay away and protect Hailey or is it better to keep her close.

OMG OMG, this author can do no wrong, this series is one of the best series I have read and am always anticipate the new release with zealous and this book does not disappoint. I feel although Trey in the other books have flown some what under the radar you always got the feeling there was so much more to him. As the doctor of the family as well as the hospital you get to see the strain within his life and the heartbreak that has been hinted in the other stories.

I am so glad that he found a strong woman within Hailey and that although she has, he issues with her family too they seem to really spark when they come together and really dig under the skin of each other to find the drive and determination they both need to succeed in the world they live in. The story twists and weaves through to bring you a brilliant story which as always is well written and draws you in from the first work. The characters are as familiar as my own family, and it is great to see them bringing Hailey instantly into the fold of the Five Families and like all of them are extremely protective of her from the start.

I really can’t wait for the next story, but they are many left to delve into.