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A Christmas to Remember by 5 Prince Publishing – Review by Angela Shirley

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A Christmas to Remember: An Anthology from 5 Prince PublishingA Christmas to Remember: An Anthology from 5 Prince Publishing by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Christmas to Remember is a collection of eight books with a Christmas theme running through them with each a unique story and full of romance.

Falling for Christmas – When Gabe comes into town and takes over the Savings and Loan there is a low hum around town especially when he decides to make changes which the town are not happy with. Nat decides to speak to Gabe and from the moment they meet the attraction is there, but can Nat keep on track and not get whisked away by Gabe.

Christmas Pizzo – There families have been emeries seem like forever but Valentina and Sal try to make each family see that they need each other, plus with the attraction between Sal and Valentia can they all come together in the end.

Mrs Clause – Abbey as been left money but as all things it comes with a clause that Abbey needs to be married before her 35th Christmas to inherit but trying to find her true love in two months that might seem a tall order but can she find the perfect man.

I loved this collection of stories and with a Christmas who could not resist. Each story is full of charm and is written beautifully, with characters you can invest in and stories which have you turning the pages. If you are looking for a good read with a little bit of everything you need to read this collection.

Faultless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 1) by KG Fletcher – Review by Angela Shirley

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Faultless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, #1)Faultless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Teddy is just being release from prison, but will he be able to live life again. Once arriving on his families farm he is shocked at the changes that have happened over the six years he has been imprisoned.

Robyn was en-route for college and then law school until one fateful night when all there worlds were turn around, her boyfriend sent to prison for something he never did and with that injustice she lost all fight of becoming a lawyer, but seeing him again has evoked the feelings that never really went away.

Can they rekindle the lost love and can Teddy be released from the guilt of ruining his family and his life because of one stupid mistake.

OMG, get your tissues at the ready. I love this author and her style of writing and this was a brilliant, emotional story from start to finish. I so felt sorry for Teddy and the emotional upheaval one mistake can take and also the gracious guy who did not blame anyone for the huge mistake that occurred in his life.

The family dynamic was lovely to read and that his family stood by him and strived to help him integrate in society again. The feelings that this story brought up was heart-breaking and you felt like you were on the journey with Robyn and Teddy throughout the story. I have read many books by this author and this one does not disappoint one bit, I am hoping the next book in the series is James and Sam’s story. I can’t wait to read more.

 

Devlin by Angela K. Parker – Review by Angela Shirley

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DevlinDevlin by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Devlin is a businessman and a womaniser but there is one woman who has driven him insane from the first meeting five years ago, Eve.

They are brilliant as a team and with there biting banter and flirtations is just that flirting but when Eve suddenly becomes single all bets are off, the only problem there are certain rules within the office and dating a co-worker is right up there.

One night they have two much alcohol and not much sense but will one night be enough.

This book is a standalone story involving the characters of Devlin and Eve, the chemistry between these two-character jumps off the page at you and feeling of forbidden love is always on the cusp of their banter. The story although short offers you an insight into the world of these two people from the frenemy’s aspect of the story to the relationship that develops after the night together.

The story is full of action and with them trying to keep their relationship a secret is fun to read. This is not the first book I have read by this author and certainly won’t be the last.

Degrees of Innocence: Dark Mafia Romance (Cruel Deceptions Book 1) By Via Mari – Review by Angela Shirley

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Degrees of Innocence (Prestian Series, #1)Degrees of Innocence by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Katarina’s past has always been the driving force to her life, scarred by her mother and driven within her career she has never really enjoyed life, until she meets the dark and mysterious Chase Prestian. With his relentless nature to make her his and the chemistry between them sparks will fly but can Katarina open her dark desires to him.

Chase has it all money, success, and a revolving door of woman but none has piqued his interest like Katarina, with the chemistry and the willing to show her the dark side of life will she be as open to a relationship with him once he shows her his other side.

This book is full of action and steamy scenes, I am always drawn to a Alpha male and Chase is more than that. The action within this book is full of intrigue and suspense, with the characters each having their own flaws and problems to overcome. I love the interactions between the two main characters and the way Katarina discovers this about herself personally along the way.

Although the book has a vibe of the Sub/Dom relationship this is done in a way to enhance the characters relationships and provides and interesting look into both. I loved the strong character of Katarina and although she shows her submissive side to Chase there is always a sass to her character and style. Overall, this is a brilliant start to the series and can’t wait to read more and discover more of this world.

A Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann – Review by Angela Shirley

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A Crossbow ChristmasA Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Carina has had her fill of tragedy and heartbreak over the past year. Covid hit the world and in her small world was even worst, with losing her mother, Sister and father in the space of the year and contracting COVID which left her near deaths door her whole world has been drape with darkness.

Carina feels lost and wandering the path of life with no purpose anymore not quite understanding were she fits in; her husband has just carried on with life. Her children have grown and flown the nest a while ago and she is no come to a point where she feels she is does not fit in.

The only thing she looks forward to is her chats with Max a young man who knows the heartbreak of losing someone close to them as his young wife passed away from cancer which has left him lost as well. So, when a conversation occurs, and Max offers his cabin to Carina is she brave enough to take him up and start building her world back up.

I have to admit this book at the start was “Where is this going?” but I have to say the more I read the more I related to Carina in a way I have not thought about. We all struggled through the pandemic no matter where you were in the world and if you lost someone close it must have been a horrendous time. I live in the UK and my father passed away through cancer not COVID but the restrictions around his funeral were more heart-breaking than the funeral itself.

I also related to the fact of trying to “get back to normal” whatever that is in this time now, this book highlighted the struggle some people are having with the life in general. It was a great thought provoking but which I would recommend people to read just to say you’re not alone in this.

Thank you for writing a book with the characters so personable and a story which was well written and flowed beautifully through the thoughts and actions of these characters.

Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Angela Shirley

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Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Prequel)Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

OMG I am obsessed by this series and thought it could not get any better, well I was wrong. This book is the prequel to the night of Marissa’s death and what went down, the only drawback this is too short and leaves you hanging.

This introduces the Princesses into the world and is written with the same intrigue and twists as all the books in this series. The characters are the ones we love and cherish, and it is great to see the characters in a time of free-spirited woman and how the fibre’s such strong friendship was founded.

I hope there is more in the series as I’m not sure I want to say goodbye to the Five Families just yet,

Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Angela Shirley

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BycatchBycatch by Alexander Blevens
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A man’s choice years ago will ripple through the years and has embedded into the soul of Rex, when something happens with his son’s his past in the Air Force comes rushing back with a visitor, he was not expecting to confront him.

Can Rex try and help his son’s and right a wrong from the past, you will need to delve into this wonderful book.

This is the first book I have read from this author and to be honest I was not sure what to expect, this is not normally a book I would gravitate to, but I was recommended to take a chance on it, and I was not disappointed. The story is quite a heavy subject matter but the way the author weaves you through the past to the future is refreshing and quite easy to read. I love a good, flawed character and Rex is one who has tried to recover from his past but as hard he works, he never seems to catch a break. The story has an added depth with the mystery of his sons and the accident of the fisherman which just brings more memories to the front for Rex.

Overall, the story is well written, with the twists and turns and anticipation will have you glued to the book until the last page. The story is full of angst and what if’s which ends up making me think about decisions in life and how they affect people in my life. I recommend this book and can’t wait to read more by this wonderfully discovered author.

Fallen Star (The Divine Devils Book 2) by R Weir – Review by Angela Shirley

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Fallen Star: The Divine Devils Book 2Fallen Star: The Divine Devils Book 2 by R. Weir
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Megan has lived most of her life in the comfort of the celebrity world until one indiscretion will ruin her life and reputation for good, so she calls in the best in the business to help find out the source of the blackmail and the threat on her career but neither of them thought it would open this many streams of evil to have to close.

Hunter and his team are called in on a relatively straight forward case of Blackmail or that’s what he thinks but delving deeper into the world he discovers a lot more which drags them into the world of Drugs, prostitution and Murder but can he get him and his team out alive.

This is the first book I have read by this author and the first book in this series, and I really enjoyed the flow and story. Although this is the second book, I read it quite easily as a stand-alone book with no trouble. The main character in Hunter is strong and has his demons from the past which to get to read some in the start of the book which opens the man on the page.

This story is full of grit and excitement, with the twist and turns that you take I could not put the story down. I was enthralled and the drama, danger and edge of seat thrilling writing I was rushing to finish the book to see what happens. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series, but I may just has a sneaky read of book one first.

Breathe Underwater by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Angela Shirley

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Breathe UnderwaterBreathe Underwater by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When the FBI asked me to do this undercover job, I never thought I would be lost in a sea of darkness, I have been in this world for so long that it may consume the last bit of humanity out of my soul but having to do this job he has sacrificed so much and so many people will he be able to love again.

I have my world on track, everything is going brilliantly until I see the person who broke my heart all those years ago, but he still has the draw he used to have, but I don’t know him anymore he lives in the shadows. Can I put myself those the torment again to have the only man I only ever really loved.

I have to say I have read a few books by this author and this book does not disappoint, the chemistry between these two characters jumps off the page and I was drawn into their world. The characters compliment each other brilliantly with the sass and fire from Evelynn and the dark moody side of Damian this just adds another depth and element to the story.

From the start my heart had a little space for Damian, as a child being dragged around state to state by his father just wanting to stay in one place long enough to make some friends was hard to read, but through the book you saw snippets of light when he meets back up with Evelynn was just a joy. I hope that some of the mini plots come off as books as I would love to see conclusions to some of these stories. As always can not wait to read more.

Notebook Mysteries ~ Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Angela Shirley

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Notebook Mysteries Haunted ChristmasNotebook Mysteries Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Emma’s business is going brilliantly at the moment and with her relationship with Jonathan also going well, she feels at peace with life, so when a friend asks her to investigate the death of his father she instantly takes up the investigation to help find out what really happened.

So as Emma arrives at the manor this are not quite what they seem, the whole place is like Charles Dickins “Christmas Carol” and when strange things happen she may think the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future have arrived to help solve the mystery, but she discovers more mundane reasons within the family. Can Emma and her team solve the mystery and help her friend, you will have to find out.

I love this series it is well written and the characters are just adorable to read with there interactions and chemistry with each other. As this is one of the short books in this series you could read as a stand alone as the characters do offer some back story to them but it may be advisable to read the full series up to now to get a better overall insight into the characters but with that said the wonderful worlds the author creates in each story is just breath taking,

I loved the interaction between Emma and her team and you can see how they work seamlessly to try and solve the mysteries which have been put in front of them. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series and see what next adventures Jonathan and Emma are plunged into.

Boss’s Vendetta (Sicilian Gods Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by

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Boss's Vendetta: Dark Mafia Romance (Sicilian Gods Book 1)Boss’s Vendetta: Dark Mafia Romance by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

She hates him and what he stands for, but how do I get his eyes from staring at me in my dreams.

I saw her in the hospital and she intrigues me, her sassy nature draws me in but who is this woman who has snuck inside and I can’t let go.

This is the first book I have had read by this author and omg it is brilliant. I loved the way the characters interacted with each other and crated the tension and darkness the story oozed. The story itself was well written and created the tension and passion to hold you until the end.

This story twists and I loved the way the author weaved through the drama and the secondary characters added to the depth of the story.

I love this genre and I can say that this is one of the best written and developed stories I have read to date. I will definitely be reading the next in this series and more books by this author. Thank you for drawing me into the world of the Larussio family and more.

Defying Ella (True Platinum Series Book 4) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Angela Shirley

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Defying EllaDefying Ella by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ella has been stuck on tour with Jared for months and it is becoming harder to avoid the grumpy drummer, it also does not help we have a history and he is a man whore but in just a couple of days I will be away in a cabin with no interruptions will be bliss.

After leaving the tour early she arrives in the beautiful cabin in the mountains alone and we the piece and quiet she wanted desperately awaiting the rest of the girls until the bliss is shattered and in walks the one person she is trying to get away from, the man who broke her heart Jared.

Jared is lost at the moment, with the tour being over he needs the downtime and were better to have it than his friends cabin in the mountains. Once he arrived he is greeted by the one person he is trying to escape from, the one woman who has bury in his soul and want let go.

Then the unthinkable happens, they are snowed in. As the realisation of the situation they try and draw a truce but will time alone together trigger the truth that they are truly meant to be together.

I love the Enemies to friends genre and this story is brilliant and well written. The story shows inside the minds of both characters who are a little jaded regarding each other and themselves but try to discover the true person. Although the character had me confused with his dramatic switches for most of the story but in the end I did get to love him more and more as his true character was revealed.

The character of Ella was a fitting opposite although I would have liked her a bit more sassy in the attitude she complimented Jared brilliantly. The story was engaging and held my interest through till the end and although this is the first book I have read within this series I found you could read this as a stand alone book, that said I will go back and read the others in this series as I would like to see how the other couples met.

Thank you for a lovely read and as before can’t wait to read more in this series.

Notebook Mysteries ~ Emma (Notebook Mysteries Book 1) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Angela Shirley

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Emma (Notebook Mysteries, #1)Emma by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Emma Evans is working within her family’s bakery but is fed up and bored, seeing the things the delivery boys get up to she convinces her father to go into the delivery side and that’s when it all explodes into action.

So, as she goes into the underworld of Chicago she gets caught up with gangsters and corruption which she decides to investigate and throws her deeper into the dark world, but can she save herself and solve the crime in the end, you will need to read to find out.

What can I say other than I loved this adventure, this is the first book in the series and although I have read the others in this series, I thought I would go back to where it all starts and was not disappointed. It was brilliant to see the interaction between Emma and her family and to see the start of the strong, witty character was great to read.

The story is full of the action and great writing within the other books, and you get to see Emma as the young woman just starting find her feet and confidence, as always, her spirit and gumption is there fully to see. The flow of the story was great and a brilliant mix of tension and action, plus the dotted receipts of the German delights was a lovely thought also. I can’t wait to read more.

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.