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My Pearl Heart by J.N. Sheats – Review by Beverly Finnie

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My Pearl HeartMy Pearl Heart by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved it! I want it to be a movie! My Pearl Heart was well written and had such a strong female lead. The author wrote her with so much potential, that the growth displayed throughout turned out beautifully.
If you enjoy sweet forbidden romance?
This book falls right into your wheelhouse.
Jasmine owns an event planning business with her best friend. Reality her best friend brings in the clients and she does all the work. Cadence walks all over her and the business, and Jasmine lets her. This book turns into a book of self discovery for Jasmine, as well as to cut the toxic people out of her life. Along the way she meets James, who she wants but can’t have. Why? Because he’s engaged to Cadence.
How does one navigate feelings they can’t act on?
Reality, by walking on eggshells around one another. However the author broadcast that connection and that concept beautifully throughout the book.
Now I’m curious to check out what else this author has written. While I do that, you can read this!!

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Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Prequel) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation #0.5)Night Hawke by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Night Hawke is a steamy short story about two people who anonymously enjoy each other across a weekend. What I mean by enjoying each other is in the physical sense. Jack and Nolan may be their aliases, but their chemistry is off the charts.
So will a weekend be enough?
The author wrote a fun, hot, steamy, passionate story that I wanted more of. Every once in a while I look for a book like this to read. All the good ones are always short, like this one. They also always leave one wanting more. I might’ve found a new favorite author. Only time will tell. This was my first taste and I’m now planning on looking into other books written by the same author, to see if my hunch is correct.
If you want a short and steamy story this book is for you!!

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Minotaur’s Lair (Servant of the Gods Book 3) by Luciana Cavallaro – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Minotaur's Lair (Servant of the Gods, #3)Minotaur’s Lair by Luciana Cavallaro
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Minotaur’s Lair seems to be the epic conclusion of this series, and it did not disappoint. The author keeps you ingrained in an intriguing tale involving descendants of the Gods and Goddesses of old, and well as the Titans that came before them. I give this author a lot of credit you feel the discord between Kronos and his beloved children.. lol Jk
We find Evan and his companions held captive by the Amazons. Not against their will per say but drugged to forget what they are doing. Once the High Priestess is visited by Mother Goddess, she not only gets her companions free but also back on course for their date with The Minotaur so they can retrieve the final relic. Of course anyone who has read the previous books knows this is no easy task, also as Kronos is waiting in the wings. With no intentions of letting his children succeed and taking the relics for himself, leads to an epic showdown.
Who comes out on top?
What obstacles do they run into along the way?
Does Evan get his wish to return home?
I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys Greek Mythology. The author is very knowledgeable and makes it entertaining for all!

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Married Blind (King of Screen Book 2) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Married Blind (Kings of Screen, #2)Married Blind by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Abi and Finn are both independent and feisty. Agreeing to something they never would’ve in the past. Married Blind brings reality tv scenarios to a rom-com book. The author wrote a fun, sad, and happy story that you just get sucked into. There were times I actually laughed. There were times that brought actual tears to my eyes. I fell in love with these characters. I fell in love with the story.
Abi, working 3 jobs hard on money trying to help her sister rid herself of her hundreds of thousands of dollars of medical debt. Agreed to sign up for this show not only for the money but to give herself a chance to find who she is again. She’s had no life, her whole life the last so many years has been her sister and her cancer treatment. She only hoped that it would be more than a marriage of convenience for 3 months.
Finn, Hollywood playboy, is forced into doing Married Blind as a consequence of his actions. Planning to treat it as another movie roll, never intended that he would meet his match. A woman so enthralling to him he had to try extremely hard not to let his walls drop. He’s aware that she could be the very person who could destroy him if he lets her in.
Unfortunately for the both of them they underestimated Tyler, the producer, and the show. Putting them in situations that bring them closer together. The growth between these two is written beautifully. The author has won me over. I need to go back and read the first book, but I also look forward for the next guy in their group to fall.

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Son of Asmodeus by Barb Jones – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Son of AsmodeusSon of Asmodeus by Barb Jones
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book! Books like this are definitely a guilty pleasure for me. It’s funny because I’m not really religious, I don’t believe in a superior being, but every book of fiction that involves Heaven and Hell I have to read. Son of Asmodeus was no different. Oh can I also say I want more! I realized after so many pages that there’s no way this is wrapping up anytime soon, not even realizing it says book 1. The author kept me intrigued throughout. I didn’t even read the whole synopsis before jumping in.
Sully is written on a path of self discovery. He knows he’s immortal, he knows he’s pledged his loyalty to god, and that he kills demons. What more could there be to learn? Tons! And the author doesn’t short you on the twist and turns during that discovery. It’s not only a path to self discovery but also the purpose he serves to Heaven and Hell. I believe he’s still learning about that as this book comes to an end, which is why I want more.
Mick, a bartender, enlists Sully to find her friend, not realizing the world she was just about to enter. A word that she is a very significant piece of. A journey she doesn’t refuse to join despite trying to understand everything. The author writes about her well. In a way that anyone who discovers that much about themselves and those around them, would react the exact same way!
Why are Sully and Mick so important?
Well that you will just have to read and find out for yourself!
If you enjoy supernatural fiction, let alone supernatural fiction that involves Heaven/Hell, Lucifer, God, as well as Angels and Demons this book is for you!

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Revenge Never Rests (Tallie Brown Suspense Book 2) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Revenge Never RestsRevenge Never Rests by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book 2 in the Tallie Brown Suspense Series Revenge Never Rests, picks up pretty much where book 1 left off. Tallie knows who she really is now! Knows Julia lied to her! Knows she can’t tell her real father who she is because it could cause more harm than good. How does one live like that?
Well by continuing to be the person she was trained to be. Julia may have taken her from her family, but she trained her well in tracking and survival.
Paired together as somewhat of a team Tallie and Jackson take positions working for soon to be Ambassador Kaswell. However before they can start those jobs he disappears. Looks like he was taken, until Tallie evaluates the situation and realizes it’s bigger than that. Tallie is thrown into a mission with Major Norris and his daughter Marlene to track General Kaswell down. While Jackson has been left to work the press circuit to keep things at bay. Unfortunately Tallie and Jackson don’t feel comfortable on how this situation is panning out, nor do they feel comfortable that they are apart figuring it out.
Do they find General Kaswell?
Does he know the truth about Tallie?
The author wrote a fantastic follow-up to Secrets Never Die. The puzzle is what keeps me intrigued, trying to figure out what happened and what’s going on along with Tallie. The writing helps too, since it’s written extremely well. Unfortunately it doesn’t quite work as a standalone novel. You need to read book 1 first, but trust me when I say you will be happy that you did!
If you like puzzles and suspense this book and series is for you! Now while you get on that, I’m going to look up other books by this author to check out!!

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Secrets Never Die (Tallie Brown Suspense Book 1) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Secrets Never DieSecrets Never Die by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Do you enjoy puzzles? How about puzzles with some suspense thrown in? That’s what makes this book fun and intriguing. Secrets Never Die is a well written and intriguing suspenseful mystery. Bringing together two people in a town who doesn’t take too kindly to visitors. The author wrote a slew of excellent characters but the growth of the main two throughout it is beautiful to behold.
Tallie recently set out to find answers. The woman she knew as mom passed on, but leaves behind a note for her to choose. 1 to just move on and forget that passed. Then the 2nd was to look for answers, however she might like what she finds on the other side.
Jackson is a washed up reporter, who feels like he’s been set up on a wild goose chase. Little does he know he’s been thrown a curveball that could make or break his career completely. Being led byCutler Ridge on a hunch, turns out to be so much more. Dealing with the townsfolk was a different story, they give you a hard time and don’t want to answer questions about the mystery surrounding their town.
When Jackson meets Tallie they are at odds, misjudging each other, but due to the growth they soon discover they need to work together to get the answers they need.
For Tallie, who is my family?
What did my mother mean to this town?
For Jackson, it’s why I was sent here?
How will this get my career back on track?
These characters fit all kinds of molds which makes the book quirky vs all the mystery. I loved the intrigue of the puzzle and the government conspiracy suspense. It made for a very fantastic read. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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Falling Home (Buckeye Falls Book 1) by Libby Kay – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Falling HomeFalling Home by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Communication is key to a successful relationship. One of the many lessons that is learned throughout this holiday rekindling romance. Falling Home is a sweet story about a couple who lost their way. One was selfish and one was selfless, but neither properly communicated. Leading to the demise of their marriage. The author writes a story about their growth apart as well as together now that they are back in each other’s lives.
But will it stay that way or is it temporary?
Ginny and Max were best friends turned lovers in high school. Continuing into marriage, which despite everything they had quickly demised. Ginny wanted bigger things out of life. So when the opportunity presented itself she left and filed for divorce blind siding Max in the process. And he let her go, thinking this is what she wants, and it’ll make her happy.
Max had an opportunity to lay down roots in their hometown. With Ginny by his side he knew they could do anything. But when she left he was devastated and heartbroken. Despite all that he pushed forward by telling himself, this is what makes her happy. Now that she’s back in town to look after her father, he has no intentions of letting her go. He’s hoping to utilize the time they have working on the Jubilee together to sway her to give them another chance.
The growth the author displays is exceptional. It reflects two people who love each other, but struggle to communicate and open up. It shows the steps they take now in regards to one another as opposed to the flashbacks of their past. Showing how far they’ve come. But will it be enough?
Will Max get his wife back?
This is one of those curl up on a rainy/snowy day holiday romances that you won’t want to put down. So grab a blanket and sit on a nice comfy chair, couch, ect and jump in.

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Hanging Softly in the Night: A Detective Nick Larson Novel by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Hanging Softly in the Night (Detective Nick Larson #1)Hanging Softly in the Night by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hanging Softly in the Night is a strangely morbid title, knowing what happens in this book. However it works, and I didn’t expect to make that kind of connection when jumping into this book. Wonderfully written this book makes you think. A puzzle to be solved. Striving to connect the smallest of dots to figure it all out. That’s what makes it intriguing. With a little romance thrown in.
Nick was finally reinstated to full duty after living through the suicide and guilt that comes with it of his ex-wife. When responding to a call only to discover it’s a woman death by suicide. Well at least that is how it appears. After autopsy and interviews his gut is telling him this is bigger than that. That this isn’t actually a suicide, but how can he prove it, when all the evidence and interviews keep leading to a deadend.
Then there is Laura, a woman he cares deeply about. Who’s twin sister is crazy and out to ruin her life. How can he protect her and do his job? He wants to be with her but is hesitant since he can’t always be there. Now there’s a chance that her sister may be able to access her more easily, despite restraining orders.
A subplot that I definitely followed. A subplot that made me wonder if she was connected to the main plot. Nick’s the one who landed her behind bars, why wouldn’t she want to play with him? People who are borderline psychotic and out for revenge enjoy games like that.
The author wrote Nick in a way despite everything he’s very level headed. He wants to do his job and do it right. He wants to protect Laura and do it right.
Is he able to close his cases and protect her?
Does he end up having a lapse in judgment?
Those were just some of the questions that came to mind that I wanted answered while reading.
If you enjoy a great crime novel, that gets you really thinking. This book is absolutely for you!

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Snow in Love by Libby Kay – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Snow in LoveSnow in Love by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Snow in Love is a sweet holiday romance. Gave me hallmark movie vibes. The author wrote a sweet romance between two characters that are broken in their own way. Despite everything influencing their lives these two found themselves within one another. And the way the author perceived that was enjoyable.
Sienna and Conner are polar opposites. She’s lived and trained her whole life skiing with her disability. Conner is new to the disability, after a tragic accident in motocross changed his life. Both missing the same part of their leg, these two are training to compete in the winter paralympics in skiing. Which lands them at the same Aspen resort over the Christmas holiday. Sienna, with a love of tradition and a disappointment of having to spend the holiday alone, is blown away by what Connor does to make her Christmas special.
Unfortunately life happens so nothing has a happy ending, or does it?
This is a book you cozy up with. Under a blanket with a cup of cocoa or tea and enjoy. I’m a sucker for holiday romances and this one definitely pulls at the heartstrings, but it’s so worth it!

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Kamana Wanalaya by Susan Renee – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Kamana Wanalaya for the HolidaysKamana Wanalaya for the Holidays by Susan Renee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What happens when a cynic and a hopeless romantic challenge one another? Well everything that happened in Kamana Wanalaya for the Holidays. The author wrote an interesting take on an enemies to lovers romance. One that was thoroughly enjoyable. It was happy, sad, funny, spicy, and everything in between.
Tenley has a podcast where she goes on about being practical in life. Especially in love, she doesn’t believe in it. A independent feminist at heart, would rather preach her feelings vs risk her heart. She despises the so-called “love guru.”
Teagan is the love guru and he issues a challenge. After Tenley laid into him and the resort he promoted in her podcast, he propositioned her. He said come to Hawaii for a week with all expenses paid and if he couldn’t show her how to love, he would donate $10k to her podcast and go on record pulling back some. What he didn’t tell her was it was a couples retreat week.
That’s where the author’s humor comes into play. Navigating these two who are complete opposites through a retreat and fake relationship. They take shots and constantly rib one another, but under it all they are both falling.
How do they handle it?
If you enjoy enemy to lovers romances this book is perfect. The author put together a well written story. It has you rooting for the main characters, it also has you wanting the backstory of the others. Which I’m going to be looking into! You should too!

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Road to the Mansfield (Express Investigations Book 1) by CB Laurence – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Road to the Mansfield (Express Investigations, #1)Road to the Mansfield by CB Laurence
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

All roads lead to California or in this case to the Mansfield Supper Club. Road to the Mansfield follows 3 different characters who have been broken. 3 different characters who you could say have been put through the ringer. The author expertly writes their overlapping stories reflecting the trials and tribulations they go through. The common thread, they all end up in California. They also end up at the Mansfield Supper Club. 2 of which are employees/entertainment and the other a spectator.
Francie(Ruby) finds herself in California to put herself back together. Ending up training and working at a gentlemen’s club when she was 17 she went through a difficult and trying year. Betrayal by her best friend and the stealing of her virtue. She married the man who got her out, only to lose him to death 6 years later. Now it’s time to start over and she’s hoping her voice can lead her in the right direction.
Rose is young and naive. Blinded by the words and actions of Rico Valentino. He convinces her to leave her family and friends, to marry him and move to California. Unfortunately it only takes a few months before his controlling and abusive ways present themselves. Tricked into an audition at Mansfield, she realizes despite her nerves it’s the opportunity of a lifetime, but at what cost.
Will she ever open her eyes and leave him?
Beau was broken by the death of his best friend. The death led to a domino effect of him losing everything. Best part he’s okay with that, because he feels like himself again. He also heads to California, and ends up a spectator at Mansfield. After listening to Rose and Ruby sing, he realizes he wants to help Rose any way he can. He is also mesmerized by Ruby.
Will he act on instinct?
How do these 3 characters tie together?
I feel like it’s the California move healing themselves. What do you think?
It’s one story with 3 overlapping substories, each focusing on a different character. It’s good but I have to warn you there are some dark themes that could be a little too much for some, but you should check it out!

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And Then She Fell by Dreena Collins – Review by Beverly Finnie

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And Then She FellAnd Then She Fell by Dreena Collins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m on a ledge deciding which way to fall when it comes to this book. And Then She Fell was an interesting read. Although I didn’t love it, I didn’t dislike it either. This book was wonderfully written and deserves praise in this regard. The author kept me intrigued, which says a lot because I struggled at the beginning trying to get into the book. I want to be proven wrong, I made an assumption early on which is what kept me reading. But I will neither confirm or deny the outcome of that want.
Catherine is retracing the steps of her late daughter Susie. She doesn’t fully believe her death was an accident(neither do I.) She finds herself back in Crete at the hotel where it happened. She finds herself meeting up with Susie’s two friends Jessica and Sebastien, where she finds out Daniel was a controlling boyfriend. She also ends up in Daniel’s crosshairs. Despite all this she’s being stalked/threatened, somebody doesn’t want her to continue her quest. Susie was changing and she never noticed.
What kind of mom does that make her?
That’s a question she seemed to internally ask herself throughout.
I don’t trust Daniel. I also firmly believed from an early point that he pushed Susie, maybe not intentionally but it still happened. Like I said I want to be proven wrong. Controlling relationships sometimes go too far, unfortunately the next likely scenario is even sadder. There are things that take one’s mind elsewhere when reading that give one hope to be proven wrong, but sad knowing what the outcome would be.
If you like reading for clues and making your own assumptions hoping to be right or wrong, this book is perfect for you. The author gives you so much, it makes you feel one with Catherine in her path of discovery to what happened When She Fell.

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Love Tools (Bluestone Series Book 1) by Isobel Reed – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Love Tools (Bluestone Series, #1)Love Tools by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When the father that wasn’t around leaves you an inheritance after his death. This was pretty much how Love Tools started. Lily, the female lead, was left her father’s property in Montana. Which included a hardware store. So she uproots her life in London to start anew. Little did she know where this would lead her life.
Will she let the past get the best of her?
Jake didn’t know his friend Matthew had a daughter, and a feisty one at that. She comes blowing into his life and doesn’t know how to handle it. But he intends on proving to her she’s more than just a fling.
Can he not get redemption?
The story the author wrote was cute. Full of stubborn and feisty characters to keep one entertained. There were also some snickering laughs along the way. What the author put these two main characters through demonstrated so much growth on both parts it was refreshing.
I enjoyed it and look forward to the next book!

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Murder on Oak Street ( A South Shore Mystery Book 1) by I.M. Foster – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Murder on oak streetMurder on oak street by I. M. Foster
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Murder on Oak Street seems to be a typical who dun it? Well that is till you get into it. Reality it’s an investigation within an investigation. The author keeps you guessing, especially when you think it’s about one death yet about 40% of the way through the meat of the story happens. It gives me Agatha Christie vibes. Though I’ll be honest I struggled at the beginning. I couldn’t stay interested but I pushed on. Once I start a book I do everything in my power to see it through. The author kept me invested as it went on.
Dr. Daniel O’Halleran just recently transferred to this Long Island town, needing a change of scenery. Little did he realize a case that he worked on two years prior that left him unsettled would be coming right back to the forefront. This was his chance to get it right. But when Thomas Brissedon is found dead he’s tasked with being the lead to find the answers. Unfortunately he feels strongly that Cornelius Desmond’s demise is connected.
So now we circle back to who dun it?
Was it Colin Brissedon? Thomas’ son who was promiscuous and an uncontrolled gambler.
Was it Patrick Desmond? Thomas’ troubled stepson who strongly believes Thomas had something to do with his father’s death?
Was it Jeremy Radcliffe? Nephew of the deceased who is a drunkard and just as promiscuous as Colin.
Was it Kathleen Brissedon? Thomas’ daughter who is a kind and gentle soul, who loves her father unconditionally.
That’s just a few of the prime suspects, now who do you think it is?
If you like murder mystery books then jump in and decide who you think brought Thomas to his demise. The author’s witty take in the novel makes it a worthwhile leap to take.

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The Daredevil (WaterFyre Rising Book 2) by Nadia Han – Review by Beverly Finnie

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The Daredevil (WaterFyre Rising, #2)The Daredevil by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author continues to impress me with The WaterFyre Rising Series. I enjoyed The Daredevil more than book 1. And I can’t wait for it to continue, knowing there’s 5 guys who have been friends and creating a video game since they were teens. The best part is so far both books work extremely well as standalone novels, but why after reading one would you jot want to read the others?
Book 2 is a friends to lovers romance. Royce and Michelle are part of the same group of friends. Royce being one of the guys and Michelle being really good friends with Audri(Remi’s girl and Grayson’s sister) brought her into the group.
Michelle is continuously fighting the demands of her past. Eating disorders and body dysmorphia that she developed as a child growing up in the pageant world, where everyone has to be perfect. These things about her are not accepted easily in past relationships, she’s viewed as tainted. It wasn’t till some guy saved her life that she decided to fight back against her demons.
Royce doesn’t believe in love. In his eyes all it leads to is broken hearts and abandonment. Since that’s the life he lived. His dad left and his mom suffered, despite his aunt showing him all the love in the world. It wasn’t till he saved a girl’s life on his property that he decided to change his path and just keep a distance.
These two are broken souls and the author does a phenomenal job showing the growth and healing they experience. These two characters were written to need each other, more than they realize. And it turned out beautifully.

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Taming Beckett (The Playmakers Series Hockey Romances Book 1) by G.K. Brady – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Taming Beckett (The Playmakers, #1)Taming Beckett by G.K. Brady
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Taming Beckett, should’ve been called Taming Beckett While Finding Myself. Actually Taming Beckett is better, but that’s exactly what this book is about. Learning about one’s true self. I thoroughly enjoyed what the author wrote and if I’m being honest I can’t wait to dig into book 2 as well as the rest of this series!
Beckett is spiraling quickly into rock bottom. He’s losing his hockey career, he lost his restaurant, he lost all his money and his drug addiction almost killed someone.
Paige has her company and a marriage she’s trying to save. A husband she loves but he’s always traveling for work, or so she thought.
When these two meet again Beckett unloads on her, not realizing who she is. But in the end these two may be what each other needs. It might take some time but Beckett remembers Paige, well Andie as he called her, she’s the only one who ever told him “no.”
A budding friendship forms between these two broken souls. Broken long before their current life situations. The author takes one on adventure while these two discover who they truly are and what makes them happiest. The growth by both characters is beautifully written, especially Beckett.
This is one of those books I didn’t want to put down. I only did because I had no choice and now that I’m done I want more!

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Reckless Heart (Second Chance Romance Series Book 2) by Jane Suen – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Reckless Heart (Second Chance Romance #2)Reckless Heart by Jane Suen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A story about two people reuniting after humiliation, heartbreak, and vindictive behavior broke them apart. Reckless Heart is a second chance romance. The author takes a while to actually get to the root of the back story. Majority of this story is written over a day, with a lot of flashbacks.
Mary and Brad secretly had a thing for one another when they were growing up. That is till Mary crushed his heart by humiliating him by going for his best friend in front of all of their friends. Yet 10 years later he still feels protective of her. He fights a battle within himself while they spend a day together. Mary, freshly single, still feels an attraction to Brad, but feels she doesn’t deserve him after what she did. How these two navigated the day they spent together was sweet.
Does Brad forgive her?
Does Mary want to be with him?
The author put together a story that had all its working parts. It felt a little lost at times in the beginning, but that was cleaned up as the book went on. I liked the story that was presented. It makes one dwell on their own past and memories.

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Kiss Away Your Pain (Wounded Hearts Series Book 2) by Debbie Cromack – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Kiss Away Your Pain (Wounded Hearts, #2)Kiss Away Your Pain by Debbie Cromack
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved it! Kiss Away Your Pain was sad and sweet. The author wrote a wonderful book to add to the series. I read Nicco and Destiny’s story, so I was excited to jump into Candi and Enzo. These two characters have been through so much tragedy it’s hard to believe. Though it’s a book of fiction these tragedies are very much real. So be mindful in regards to your own history it could be a trigger. Besides that, don’t even pass this book up. It has so much to offer. It’s a book that could be the first steps to healing a broken heart. Well that’s what it is to me.
Candi lost the love of her life. Made a decision at that point she would remain single for life. She never expected Enzo to blow into her life. He’s rocked her existence. He’s shown her that her dreams are still possible.
The question is, is she brave enough to go for it?
Or will her fear of leaving Dom behind hold her back?
Enzo never wanted anything serious. He just doesn’t have time. But when Candi walked into his life, that all changed. He wants more with her. He wants to break down her walls. He identifies with her on such a deep level, he refuses to give her up.
Will he get her to see how good moving on could be?
Candi’s growth is beautiful, slowly blooming as the book progresses.
I enjoy Candi’s spitfire, no nonsense attitude. I’m sure you will too. Beautifully written as a standalone but it’s definitely the next book in a series. Saying that, read it!

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Glass Houses by Sinister Styx – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Glass HousesGlass Houses by Sinister Styx
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Well definitely not what I expected. Glasshouses is a short story of deceit, denial, revenge, and murder. A continuous cycle that just keeps repeating itself. What the author wrote easily got that point across even though it was a short story. So much happened in the few pages this story took.
Ivy and Falcon accuse the other of being unfaithful. Falcon, so hurt by this, decides he will make the accusations accurate. In front of everyone they know, he humiliates her by dominating someone else.
The story itself was well written, it just wasn’t for me. Doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy it. It won’t take much time so give it a try.

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The Rom Com Movie Club (The Rom Com Movie Club Book 1) by Bernadette Marie – Review by Beverly Finnie

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The Rom Com Movie Club - Book OneThe Rom Com Movie Club – Book One by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Her best friend’s getting married. She should be happy for her. But she’s a broken soul trying to find her way through life.
He’s the brother of the groom, and he can’t take his eyes off her.
The Rom-Com Movie Club was an entertaining and fun book to read. It’s quirky, full of humor, happiness, sadness, and some tears. The author makes you feel it as if you were the character. Well some feelings. The Bridezilla best friend, yeah I didn’t feel that, but mostly the things everyone else went through yeah.
Lisa is a lost soul, who doesn’t really know what true love is. Growing up in the foster system she moved constantly and as well as had a new family, it became easier to be alone. And it worked for sometime till she met the 3 women who have since become her family. Best friends who meet once a month to have a rom-com movie/sleepover. What happens when someone enters her life that doesn’t want to leave?
Ryan just moved home and his brother is getting married. Jilted on more than one occasion, the hopeless romantic in Ryan hasn’t given up just yet. When he meets Lisa for the first time, he knows she’s special. He can’t keep his eyes off her, but he’s been warned to stay away. Now that he can.
Will Ryan heed the warning to stay away?
Will Lisa let him in?
These two have been through some things, things that could keep them together or tear them apart. The character growth that is written throughout for Lisa and even maybe for the bride to be Bridzilla. It’s phenomenal what the author did with these characters.
I feel maybe another story for these friends now that Lisa’s brother is moving home. I can only hope. Till then check this book out!

@placexba

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The Kidnapping by Linda Burson – Review by Beverly Finnie

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The KidnappingThe Kidnapping by Linda Burson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

He saved her life.
She revived his.
He also taught him what love is.
What would you do if someone dropped an envelope in front of you with $10k and instructions to be followed?
The Kidnapping was surprisingly unexpected. In a good way. I was hooked from the first chapter. It’s been a while since a book has gotten me that quickly. I didn’t want to put it down. The author takes us on a whirlwind adventure. One that just when you think it’s over, boom not quite. The way the author wrote the two main characters they are both easy to love for their own reasons. Plus the growth throughout is beautiful.
Andy and Jenna had no idea they’d cross paths, or that it would change their lives forever.
Jenna is lonely in life. Proof that money can’t buy everything. All people want her for is what she can give them, the things she could buy. And she’s just sick of it all. Ending up at a dive bar on the other side of town gives her a chance to let go and unwind.
Andy is moping through life. Having suffered great loss and numbingly starting over. Frequents the same dive bar. Fortunately for him, one day a lady gave him an envelope with $10k and instructions on who and how to kidnap someone. That someone being Jenna. So what does he do? He decides to meet her and tell her.
Instant connection, instant chemistry that they both choose to ignore. Though Jenna’s plan could throw a wrench in that. She wants to stay with Andy, and figures it’s the best way to keep her safe. That is till they figure out what to do about the letter. There’s strong connections that her ex-fiance Steve has his hands all over this mess.
So come join us, for an unexpected rollercoaster, lots of romance, lots of awkward holding back. While these two navigate their new situation.
Do they figure it out?
Does Andy keep Jenna safe?
A book that was a lot lighter than I expected, will keep one interested for hours. Check it out!

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The Perfect Mrs. Claus by Barbara Matteson – Review by Beverly Finnie

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The Perfect Mrs. ClausThe Perfect Mrs. Claus by Barbara Matteson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A sweet Christmas story. The Perfect Mrs. Claus is the book you cuddle up with a mug of hot chocolate on a cool December day. A wonderful story when all is said and done.
If I had one knock on it, it’s the constant flashbacks. Early on they were all over the place and I was really confused. As the book progressed the author cleaned up the transition between past and present. I still think it was a lot though. And just because I say that doesn’t mean that takes away from the story the author wrote.
This book is about love, loss, and hope. What Savannah accomplishes in this book reminds me of what I wish I could do. To selflessly help others in ways I currently can’t. Doesn’t always work out that way, but I hope my life leads me there some day.
Matthew and Savannah are two lonely souls. Both of their children are overseas. Savannah is a widow, while Matthew is a divorcée. What are the odds life leads them to one in an unexpected way?
He’s in charge of the yearly Christmas display and he needs a Mrs.Claus. In walks Savannah into the store that will change their lives forever.
The growth of these characters individually as well as together is beautifully written. It makes you root for these characters and makes you keep turning the page.
If you enjoy Christmas novels it’s worth a read!

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A Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann – Review by Beverly Finnie

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

Reading A Crossbow Christmas was like stepping into a Hallmark movie in my head. Though it was a little longer than 2 hours and no commercials. I’m a sucker for a good Christmas novel and this one hit all the feels. I wasn’t too sure what I was jumping into, because with Christmas novels I haven’t read a bad one yet. So I decided to jump right in with this one.
The author wrote 2 characters that have had a heartbreaking last few years. Between family loss and the pandemic it was a lot to deal with. But the author wrote it beautifully and it kept me wanting more!
Carina is a mother of 4, with 4 grandchildren. Happily married or is there trouble in paradise. She has been through a lot. Losing both her parents as well as her sister in the last few years. She also had a long and tiring battle in the hospital with Covid. She needs a break, a vacation. She does everything to get her family to go away for the holidays, to no avail. Well her one son agreed, which made her decide to do it!
Max is a late 20s doctorate student, who lost the love of his life to cancer. He met Carina through a grief group on Facebook and they’ve been great friends since. He offered a cabin that his wife inherited, and they renovated to make it so much more. Located in a ski town of Crossbow CO, he thought it would be great for her family to spend the holidays there.
Carina goes through a rollercoaster of emotions on her journey. Sometimes the author had me frustrated with her. Other times I could relate because I’m the same way. When one feels alone, they are the only one who gets to break through those feelings to change that.
A feel good Christmas story for all to love!

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Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Beverly Finnie

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

I was sad when I thought this series ended, but the author strikes again. The Mafia Elite Series is revived by the Defiant Princess prequel!
Yes I love this series!
Yes, all the books are well written!
Yes I’ve read them all!
And absolutely Yes you should too!
If this is the first time you’re coming across a book in this series, you’re in luck because it’s the beginning. What happens in Defiant Princess comes up a lot through No Way Out so it’s a perfect place to start.
I wonder why it wasn’t titled Princesses because it’s told from the point of view of all 4 mafia princesses, Liliana, Emiliana, Sofia, and Marissa. When tragedy strikes the five mafia families of Chicago stick together. Which is demonstrated beautifully is this short novel prequel.
Five Families that you will fall in love with throughout this series if you haven’t read it before. If you have, we have another book to read! It’s not over yet!

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

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

Selfless Teddy taking the fall for something he didn’t do. An instance of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Faultless Love is a second chance romance, a second chance at life, and a redemption story for our main male character.
The author wrote a wonderful story about a man’s struggles getting through the last 6 years of his life and his new found freedom. Not quite free he’s still on probation, but almost free. Teddy’s growth over his time from when the incident happened and now was written impressively. Being back with his family, making contact with the woman he loves, those are things that kept him going.
Robyn knows he’s home and still feels guilty that he was put away because of her. But she still loves him, and rekindling that romance does take long. Robyn, unlike Teddy, didn’t really grow in the 6 years. It seems the author wrote Robyn in a way where she regressed due to guilt. She had a small bit of growth at the end but you have to read to get there.
I enjoyed this book, a little slow at first for me, but once it picked up I was invested. Everytime I read something old but something new I’m intrigued. Something old meaning the genre, something new meaning the basis of the story itself.
If you enjoy a redemption story, strap in and jump into this roller coaster of a story. The author wrote a wonderful book, and I look forward to checking out others.

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I Love You Today (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 2) by Julie Navickas – Review by Beverly Finnie

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I Love You Today (The Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 2)I Love You Today by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved, I Love You Today! I actually enjoyed it more than book 1 in this series. The author takes the reader on another rollercoaster involving one of the Templeton twins.
Austin is lost. The woman he loves is marrying his twin brother. How does one get over heartbreak? Not just heartbreak though, he could lose his best friend too because of his actions. Not that Mavis helped one bit. What she did made me not care much for her and what she does throughout this book made me really dislike her. Despite Austin’s past transgressions I feel like nobody is giving him the benefit of the doubt. Everything always comes back to Mavis.
Casey just lost her roommate and best friend to the west coast. Seeing a hurting kindred spirit in Austin helps him get away from the awkward, of his twin brother and his new fiancée. Despite her insecurities she goes to bat for Austin on multiple occasions against Mavis. Mavis warns her to stay away, which I feel like she’s being selfish after stringing him along. But what happens when Casy can’t stay away?
Is Austin into her or is she just a rebound?
Has Mavis gotten into her head?
One trip to a Cubs game changes everything for these two.
The character development for both Casey and Austin is leaps and bounds ahead of book 1. Which is what makes me love Austin’s redemption story that much more. It’s sort of a redemption story for Casey too but in a different light.
If you’re stumbling upon this review without having read any of the books in this series, I encourage you to read book 1 first. They go together like two peas in a pod. If you’ve read book 1, what are you reading this for? Why aren’t you already jumping into book 2?

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Finding Bryce (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 1) by Debra Parmley – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Finding Bryce (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 1)Finding Bryce by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Finding Bryce was not your normal military romance. I enjoyed it despite feeling it was a little rushed. The author still put a good story on the page. With a slightly dark theme of an abusive spouse, this book has a little of everything. Dark, fun, playful, and serious.
Pippa ran away from an abusive ex-husband to start her life over. Navigating life in fear is not what she envisioned for herself. However her ex could find her at any time.
Diesel is a Navy Seal who is currently stateside waiting to be called for his next mission. Him and his team decide to go to a Halloween masquerade, which is perfect anonymity being he just broke up with someone. He never imagined that this party would lead to the girl of his dreams.
Convinced by her new friend/co-worker Pippa decides this party would be the best way to have fun. No one could see her face so it’s the perfect disguise. It’s been a while so she just lays low and scans the room, till a Gladiator walks in she’s drawn too.
Does she go after him? Of course, but she never gives him her name nor takes his.
Will they ever come in contact again?
Does Pippa’ s ex-husband find her?
How well does Pippa deal with the unexpected?
I don’t feel Pippa had much character growth from beginning till end, maybe if it went longer who knows. Diesel did have some character development, that was nice to see.
Who’s Bryce you may ask? I was wondering the same thing at the beginning. You are just going to have to read to find out.

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Hot for Teacher by Felicia Carparelli – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Hot for Teacher - Shakespeare Made Us Fall in LoveHot for Teacher – Shakespeare Made Us Fall in Love by Felicia Carparelli
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hot for Teacher was good, but it caught me off guard. Student/teacher romances are a guilty pleasure for me. So when I decided to read this book I went strictly from the title and didn’t read the summary. It was different then other student/teacher romances I’ve read in the past. The author did a wonderful job pulling it together. The main female character frustrated me some and I wasn’t a fan of how the main male character’s intelligence was projected but besides that I enjoyed it.
Juliet is a literature teacher at the local college and one of those classes she teaches is a night class. (Anyone who has taken a night class knows the age range of the students is all over the place.) Little did she suspect a man would catch her eye. One who wasn’t a typical student, but a man who is seasoned.
James went back to school at the urging of his adult sons. Taking a night literature class, since he has his business to run during the day. Never did he expect to be attracted to his teacher. His first assignment is to read the first so many pages of Romeo & Juliet. He promises her he intends to read the whole thing.
This story is their roller coaster of interaction. Juliet’s stubbornness, especially while James tries to court her. Using Romeo and Juliet for inspiration, they quote different passages to each other.
Does James win the lady?
What happens when Juliet’s life is in danger, does James come to her rescue?
There’s also a conclusion that almost made me sad/mad. All was right in the end.
It’s a Student/Teacher romance though different is worth picking up.

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Revenge Honeymoon by K.J. Gillenwater – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Revenge HoneymoonRevenge Honeymoon by K.J. Gillenwater
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What does one do when left at the altar?
Well according to Emily, take Ruby on a Revenge Honeymoon!
Revenge Honeymoon is a romance of a different color. It’s sad but fun. The author wrote a playful story where getting over a horrible situation turns out better than expected!
Ruby, the jilted bride.
Emily, the maid of honor who has a plan to make it right.
And off they go. On the Honeymoon Ruby should’ve been on with her new husband. However things get interesting since it’s a cruise full of newlyweds. Reality the cruise line knows the deal, but to everyone else around them they are a newly wed lesbian couple to hide Ruby’s embarrassment.
One photo session later, they’ve made a new friend and one that could rock Emily’s boat. Which she is at war with herself about. On one hand she can’t take her eyes off of handsome Max. On the other hand, this trip is about Ruby not her. Which all starts to unravel the minute Emily has had a little too much wine. She can’t shut up! They have to keep changing their story to keep Ruby’s real reality under wraps.
What happens when Max becomes the enemy?
What did he do?
To answer those questions it’s time to join the author on the cruise of a lifetime. Well at least for Emily and Max. For Ruby it changes the trajectory of her life. The way the author wrote and depicted that throughout kept me hooked. The character development was phenomenal. Especially for Ruby she grew leaps and bounds and it was wonderful to see.
To reiterate a wonderfully fun read! Check it out!

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