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Vantage Point (A Gray Ghost Novel Book 4) by Amy McKinley – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Vantage Point (Gray Ghost #4)Vantage Point by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Amy McKinley has done it again! I am loving the Gray Ghost series, and Vantage Point, book 4, is my new personal favorite. Hawk has always interested me, because he just seemed to have a good back story. He is quiet and mysterious, and I am glad the series featured his story. While at first I thought it was a little creeper that he was spying on his neighbor, it was sweet too. He had a reason, a gut feeling, and his acting on it may have saved her life, and brought them both happiness. This story is a romantic suspense, and has plenty of each. There is danger waiting around every corner for Hawk and Stella. I enjoyed the fact that Stella is a strong character, like all the women in the Gray Ghost series. She has been through a lot, and is tough, and has amazing family bonds. Highly recommend the book to other readers, and the whole series. And Amy McKinley, if you’re reading this, please keep going with the series! Amazon reads it as book 4 of 4, but I’m holding on to hope that it is false!

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Linda Gets Her Groove Thing: A Spicy Romantic Comedy About the Afterlife (The Green Room Chronicles Book 2) By J.D. Frettier – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Linda Gets her Groove Thing (The Green Room Chronicles #2)Linda Gets her Groove Thing by J.D. Frettier
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Linda Gets her Groove Thing: A Spicy Romantic Comedy About the Afterlife is the 2nd book the The Green Room Chronicles, by J.D. Frettier. This series is hilarious and takes taboo subjects, and combines them in the best way possible. This book has so much imagination, and my face hurts from laughing. This book can be read as a standalone, but would be better enjoyed after reading book 1. It is the story or Linda White’s death and arrival in The Green Room. She meets Dee and Bonnie, from book 1, and they get her comfortable and situated with life. The revenge she gets on her ex husband is the best part. I don’t know where Frettier comes up with these things, but keep it coming! This book is a quick read, and can likely be read in 1-2 sittings. I highly recommend this series.

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Desperately Seeking Sixty-Nine: A Spicy Romantic Comedy About the Afterlife (The Green Room Chronicles Book 1) by J.D. Frettier – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Desperately Seeking Sixty-Nine (The Green Room Chronicles #1)Desperately Seeking Sixty-Nine by J.D. Frettier
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Desperately Seeking Sixty-Nine: A Spicy Romantic Comedy About the Afterlife, is the first book in the Green Room Chronicles. It is also the first book I have read by this authors, J.D. Frettier. At first, I was really worried about the book, thinking it would be super kinky, due to the title. (Side note,it wasn’t the 69 I was thinking it meant!) I don’t mind a little spice, and this had the right amount. But most important, it was hilarious! This book made me laugh so much, and it was a super easy, quick read. The plot is funny, and the things that go on in the afterlife are very creative. I love the way it was written, and have already moved on to the 2nd book in the series. I highly recommend this book to anyone that needs a good entertaining story, that will make you laugh!

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Yearning Young (Burning Britely Book 2) – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Yearning Young (Burning Britely #2)Yearning Young by Deidre Huesmann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Yearning Young, by Deidre Huesmann is the continuation of Burning Britely. This book is told from Braeden’s perspective, and I thought it gave a much deeper understanding to his situation. He has been the popular rich kid his whole life, and has now found himself expelled from school just before turning 18. He is terrified to come out to his family, since his mom and dad are both already unstable and borderline abusive. He feels obligated to stay in a toxic home, to look after his younger siblings, but when his sister urges him to leave, he begins to start questioning everything. He is torn between choosing his own happiness, and his family, who he always thought was the most important thing. This is a brilliant coming of age story and I loved it. It touches on the struggles a teenager has to face, as well as the added stress for those that are homosexual, or bisexual. The feelings and questionings they feel and comparing themselves to others. I highly recommend this book, and hope there is a 3rd book in the series!

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Dig Two Graves: A Gripping Crime Thriller (Solomon Gray Book 1) by Keith Nixon – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Dig Two Graves (Detective Solomon Gray #1)Dig Two Graves by Keith Nixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dig Two Graves is the first book in the Gripping Crime Thriller (aka Solomon Gray) series by Keith Nixon. It was my first book I have read of his, but he won me over as a fan. I love crime thrillers and this book fit that without being too gruesome. It kept me engaged start to finish and I didn’t want to put it down. I didn’t expect things go the way they did, and the murderers were a shock. The last pages left me hooked for book 2. Solomon Gray has to have the saddest history of any book character I’ve read, but he still has that drive and desire to solve his son’s disappearance. He isn’t the strongest of characters for a main character, but the story itself was enough to keep me hooked and wanting to keep going. I will continue reading, because I want to know what happened to Sol’s son 10 years ago. Although, I’m left wondering about the title, since there were more than 2 murders in the story.

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Coming Home: The Sequel to Flowers in December by Jane Suen – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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COMING HOME (Flowers in December, #2)COMING HOME by Jane Suen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Coming Home by Jane Suen is the sequel to Flowers in December. While I have read a lot of books and generally love Suen’s work, this was not one of my favorites. I think mostly because it didn’t end the way I wanted it to. I kept expecting, and hoping for 2 things to happen, that didn’t. I can’t say what, as it is a spoiler, but just be warned, don’t get your hopes up for a sappy romantic ending. I love the part of the story regarding Alana and her mother, but Mary Ann’s story didn’t end as expected. But, anyone who has read any of the author’s books knows that’s normal. She always seems to put a twist in at the end which I sometimes love and sometimes want to scream, in a true page turner fashion.
The story follows Connor Norton, after he and his cat, Tom, return to his childhood home. In the previous book, his mother passed away, and he is still grieving. He has to make some decisions about the next steps for his life, and rekindles some friendships along the way. I recommend the book, but it must be read after Flowers in December. I highly recommend you check out Jane Suen’s other works as well. They are all quick easy reads.

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Trouble’s Wedding Caper by Jen Talty – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Trouble's Wedding CaperTrouble’s Wedding Caper by Jen Talty
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Trouble’s Wedding Caper is the 8th book in the Familiar Legacy book series by Jen Talty. It is the first I have read, so it can be read as a stand alone book. This book has a lot of drama, mystery, comedy and a dash of romance. It tells the story of Annabel, who returns to her small town home of Jupiter, Florida after getting her heart broken in NYC. While at her best friend’s wedding, she finds her boyfriend cheating on her, and gets drunk with her best friend’s brother, and her high school crush Ethan. Flash forward months later, and they are both back home in Jupiter and turns out Ethan’s fiance was cheating on him as well. Maybe the time is finally right for them to act on their feelings they have been hiding for years. With the help of Ethan’s sister, and Annabel’s best friend, they go on their first date.
On top of all of that, there is a lot of strange things happening, most involving Annabel and weddings. She buys a storage unit full of wedding gowns, rings, invitations and presents. With the help of Trouble, a cat, who is more like a detective, Annabel and Ethan try to solve the crime. This book was unlike any I’ve read before, but I loved it. It was so cleaver and not at all cheesy as I thought it would be. I will be reading others in the series to see what fun they have in store.

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The Light at Dawn by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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The Light at DawnThe Light at Dawn by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Light at Dawn is the first book I have read by K.L. Montgomery. I didn’t even know what it was about when I chose to read it. My friend said it was wonderful, so I trusted her and started reading. I am glad I did. It was a wonderful story. At first glance it’s a sad, tragic story, with both main characters loosing their children to school shootings. But then the twist of fate that brings them together, and all the cute romantic gestures from each of them is wonderful. It’s truly a story about fate and second chances. So many awwww moments, turned a sad theme into a beautiful story that I loved. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more by Montgomery.

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Beneath the Surface (A Gray Ghost Novel Book 3) by Amy McKinley – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Beneath the Surface (Gray Ghost #3)Beneath the Surface by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beneath the Surface, is book 3 in A Gray Ghost Novel by Amy McKinley, and it is just as good as the first 2 in the series. It has a perfect balance of romance, and suspense, with a mixture of mystery. I was a little confused at first, since I read book 2 months ago, but once I caught on to where this story picks up on the story line, I didn’t want to put it down. It takes place along the same timeline as Eye of the Storm, but that didn’t dawn on me until a good way into the story. The characters are wonderful, and I love that it has a strong lead female, and not someone to be swept off her feet. Hannah is tough and intense and I loved reading/watching the relationship between her and Jack. They both have quite the struggle between work and pleasure. I highly recommend this book, but you must read the others in the series first to understand what is going on.

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The Shape of Trust (a Stand By Me novel Book 5) by Brinda Berry – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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The Shape of Trust (Stand By Me, #5)The Shape of Trust by Brinda Berry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Shape of Trust is the 5th book in the Stand by Me Novel series by Brinda Berry, but it is the first of her books I have read. That being said, it can be read as a stand alone novel. I didn’t read the prior books, and I still thoroughly enjoyed it. The story is about a rich business owner, Webb, who suddenly discovers he has a daughter. Not only did he discover this when she was 5, but she was basically dropped off on his door step and he is left to figure things out. He know nothing about parenting, but quickly feels the parental bond and the need to protect her. An employee he has been crushing on, Lily, offers to help him. She quickly turns from bookstore employee to nanny and makes the transition seamlessly. She is great with kids, having taken care of her siblings, but also uses the opportunity to her advantage. Webb is forced to spend time with her, and she pushes their relationship to the next level. The characters have good chemistry, but the book is definitely more than just romance. It touches on feelings of love, trust, and friendship. I was hooked and will read more from this author moving forward.

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Killer Lawyer (Jake Wolfe Book 3) by Mark Nolan – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Killer LawyerKiller Lawyer by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Killer Lawyer is the third book in the Jake Wolfe series by Mark Nolan. While it could probably be read as a stand alone book, I recommend reading the first two books. Not only because they have overlapping characters, and you will have a better understanding of their dynamics, but because they are good! Jake is a complex character, he is a lawyer by day, and an assassin by night. He works with the US Marshals, and also alongside the SFPD. He also is a retired marine, and K9 handler, so he and his dog Cody chase down criminals. In this book, they are after a serial killer that is terrorizing the greater San Francisco area. Jake has a lot of connections that help him track the killer, including his best friend Terrell, who is part of SFPD and Jake used to be a photo journalist, so he has ties to the media as well. Overall its a very good book, with a good balance of psychology, law and suspense and drama. I love Mark Nolan’s stories, and this did not disappoint.

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Written in the Stars (Fallen Eagles MC Series Book 2) by T. Birmingham – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Written in the Stars (Fallen Eagles MC Book 2)Written in the Stars by T. Birmingham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Written in the Stars is the 2nd book in the Fallen Eagles MC Series by T. Birmingham. It continues after A Terrible Beauty, and should not be read as a stand alone. This story focuses on Winter and Eagle (or Davis) and their growing relationship. I like that it has overlapping characters and history from the first book, but enough of its own content to make it equally enjoyable. The characters are wonderful and their relationships are strong. At first I thought it was weird that Winter and her sisters are named after seasons, but after this book, it makes sense. Their personalities align with their names too which I thought was cool.
This book is a perfect balance of romance and suspense and kept me engaged start to finish. There is the mystery of the murders, but also the developing relationship. The more I got to know the characters, the more I loved them. I would like to read more about the Markham sisters, if the series continues. I love the real life situations, as well as the emotions involved. The hurt, love, self doubt, courage, fear, strength that the characters experience and often struggle with. Very real life down to earth story. Highly recommend it.

 

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A Terrible Beauty (Fallen Eagles MC Series) by T. Birmingham – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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A Terrible Beauty (Fallen Eagles MC Book 1)A Terrible Beauty by T. Birmingham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Terrible Beauty is the first book in T. Birmingham’s Fallen Eagles MC Series. It is listed as a novella but it didn’t feel that way to me when I was reading it. It has a lot of content, feeling, and background. The characters were well described, so you got a sense of who they were and their relationships with each other. It was well written, and I cannot wait to read the 2nd book in the series. I highly recommend it, but I do give caution to readers, there is some intense scenes involving sexual abuse and torture, along with some PTSD situations.
The book is largely about Kit Markham and her high school sweetheart Lee Devereaux, though there are a lot of important supporting characters. Both Lee and Kit served time in the military, and while they kept in contact, Kit went through some trauma she has hidden for years from nearly everyone. It has caused a lot of strain on their relationship. While they both love each other, is that enough? Can Kit get through her struggles and allow herself to be happy?

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Santa’s Little Helper by Shaan Ranae – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Santa's Little HelperSanta’s Little Helper by Shaan Ranae
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Santa’s Little Helper is the first book I’ve read by Shaan Ranae. The cover image drew me in and I wanted to read it before I even know what it was about. It was a quick but cute romantic comedy that was entertaining and I read it in one sitting. Jake is the big wig, owner/boss of a department store his dad started. He is taking over and trying to make his dad proud and be a success, but he needs a Santa, and fast. He decides to fill in for the first shift, and cant take his eyes off the sexy elf. She almost makes it worth it for him to deal with bratty kids for a day. This is the start of a funny but cute relationship between Jake and the fiery redhead elf. Highly recommend the book. 5 star review.

 

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The Crazy Yates by Kimberly Packard – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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The Crazy YatesThe Crazy Yates by Kimberly Packard
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Note to self: Pay attention to book length. I was not prepared for this book to end so quickly! Like other Kimberly Packard books I have read, I didn’t want to put down The Crazy Yates, and read it in one setting. I highly recommend it and all her books. She writes in a way that you feel like you know the character. She is very descriptive and the characters are genuine and realistic. This is a short story about the Yates family, specifically Callie, the oldest daughter. She is left to look after her family when her father develops such bad anxiety and agoraphobia he cannot leave the house, and her mother cannot handle it and bails. Leaving Callie to raise and take care of her father, and younger brother and sisters. It seems like bad luck piled on bad. Will Callie get a Christmas miracle this year?

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Leaving Jackson Wolf by P.A. Kane – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Leaving Jackson WolfLeaving Jackson Wolf by P.A. Kane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Leaving Jackson Wolf is the first book I have read by P.A. Kane. I would definitely read more, because I really enjoyed this story. It is short, but has so much deep content. It is a coming of age story, but with more intense content. It is the story of Jackson Wolf and James McDougal, two teenage boys who started a friendship over being bullied. During the story, other teens are introduced, and they each seem to bond over their drunk fathers and rough lives. Jackson is biracial and his mom split when he was young, and he is left with an alcoholic, abusive father. James is scrawny and smart, so bullied for being a nerd. They soon become each others shoulder to lean on while they both go through some rough times, including breakups and losses of friendships and family members. Jackson learns to find strength in the strangest of places and what started as a chance, and reluctant encounter, was the change in his life he needed.

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Beachcomber Gone: Beachcomber Investigations Book 9: a Romantic Detective Series by Stephanie Queen – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Beachcomber GoneBeachcomber Gone by Stephanie Queen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Beachcomber Gone is book 9 in the Beachcomber Investigations series by Stephanie Queen, but it could be read as a stand alone book. I haven’t read the whole series, and I enjoyed this book. The chemistry between Dane and Shana is fun to read, and the book is full of suspense. The pace is quick, so it makes you not want to put it down.
Dane and Shana are finally engaged, and have decided to travel before tying the knot. They went on vacation to Australia, so Dane can meet Shana’s mom. But before they could even land, they found themselves in the middle of a case, and shortly after arriving, Shana is taken. She has become the lead suspect in one of her old cases, and must avoid being framed, while she and Dane work together to solve the case. Such a fun, fast moving book. I highly recommend it.

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A Frothy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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A Frothy Christmas KissA Frothy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Frothy Christmas Kiss is the 4th book in the Christmas Kiss series by Allyson Abbott. It is a holiday romance about two people being brought together by coffee and falling in love. It is a great quick little read, and is perfect to knock out on a cold day, bundled on the couch. Or was that just me… Regardless, I recommend it, as its a cute story about Kat and Dan. Kat has moved to a new city, and loves trying new places. One day she finds an adorable little coffee shop, with the best scents, and menu board. Even better is the cute barista, who turns out to be the owner and creator of the most wonderful coffee blends. Both have instant attraction and are drawn to each other. A huge misunderstanding leads to a lot of wasted time and awkward moments. The best part of this story though, is the cat! Full of so much personality, and a expert matchmaker.

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A Pink Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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A Pink Christmas KissA Pink Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Pink Christmas Kiss is a cute romance novel by Allyson R. Abbott. It is book 3 in her Sweet Holiday/Christmas Romance series, and one of my favorites. It drew me right in and kept me hooked until the end. I was rooting for a happily ever after, and was not disappointed. The characters were very real and relate able and I loved seeing both sides of their disagreements. Billie and Leroy were high school sweethearts, that ended abruptly when Billie moved away to New York City, expecting Leroy to follow. Leroy stayed home, expecting Billie to come back home to him. The lack of communication built walls and feelings of disappointment and hurt. When Billie returns home 5 years later to take over her dad’s business, she is hoping to rekindle the relationship. But, is it too late?

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A Tangy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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A Tangy Christmas KissA Tangy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A Tangy Christmas Kiss is the 2nd in the four book series by Allyson R. Abbott. While I have read the first book, they are unrelated stories and can be read as a standalone. The book is about Melanie (Mel) and her crazy Christmas adventure. She gets a sudden, urgent request from her mother to go to Spain to take care of her aunt, after a surgery. Upon arriving at the airport, she gets some bad news, and has a big decisions to make. She takes the plunge and boards the plane anyway, and thus begins a series of awkward situations. She soon finds herself in a country she cant speak the language, and is in way over her head. She must rely on two strangers to get her through the next couple of weeks.
I had a hard time figuring out where the book was going, as there is so much unknown until the very end. Typically I like a good mystery romance, but I wasn’t as hooked on this book as I was book 1. It is a cute story and there are some funny parts. I liked seeing what became of Mel and her two Spanish men. Overall it was still a good book, and I will continue the series to see if book 3 wins me back.

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The Changeup (A Resort Romance Novel Book 6) by Mary Billiter – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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The Changeup (Resort Romance #6)The Changeup by Mary Billiter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Changeup is by Mary Billiter is advertised as A Resort Romance Novel Book 6. Its the first book I have read, and since I enjoyed it, I have looked for other books in the series. I cannot find them, so I cant speak to them, but I give this book a 4 star. I really enjoyed it, it had a good mix of drama, suspense and romance. I would read more books by the author, and hope to find the rest of this series. Rebel and Ryan at first glance should never work out, but they develop an instant relationship and must quickly learn how to trust each other, when there is so much at risk.
Rebel is in Witness Protection and has just been relocated to ensure her safety, while awaiting trial. Her entire life has been turned upside down after discovering, and reporting a crime. She was forced to change her name, job and location. At least the newest location is at a swanky resort, in Long Beach. Never mind the fact she is still working in the basement.
Ryan is a former baseball player that didn’t make it to the big leagues He is now in training to become a sheriff deputy. He has memorized the handbook, and knows all the rules. But that may not be enough, when he stumbles across a dead body. Despite being an official cop, he finds himself in the middle of solving a murder mystery.

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My Free Life: Prequel to The Brother of Camelot (My Life Series Book 3) By Necie Navone – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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My Free LifeMy Free Life by Necie Navone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My Free Life is the last book in the My Life Series by Necie Navone. It continues telling the story of Alessandra, in her path to freedom. It must be read following My Hidden Life and My Tragic Life, in order to get the full story. This book, like the previous 2, was amazing and full of twists and turns keeping me hooked from start to finish. However, I was left hanging, and now need to move onto the Brother of Camelot series, so I can know if Aless gets her happily ever after.
While this book is listed as part of a prequel, I believe it’s strong enough to be a series of its own. The characters are written so well, with emotions and relationships you can feel. I developed feelings for the characters and felt anger, love, loss, fear right along with them. The story and background are solid and realistic. I honestly enjoyed this series so much, and would love to see it turn into a movie! So highly recommend to everyone.

 

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Ring Tru (Thick as Thieves Book 1) by Janice M. Whiteaker – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Ring Tru (Thick as Theives Book 1)Ring Tru by Janice M. Whiteaker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ring Tru is the first book in the Thick as Thieves series by Janice M Whiteaker. It is the first book I have read by here, and I enjoyed it. There is a good balance of romance, suspense and mystery, while being full of emotions of love, loss, trust and second chances. It is the story of Gertrude (Tru) and Will, who are career thieves, who were once married, but parted ways 5 years ago. They both have very different views on how the breakup went, and its interesting to see how they finally get on the same page again. Tru is posing as the trophy girl friend to a rich geriatric, as one last final job, hoping to walk away with enough of his jewelry to start over and never have to do another job. Will is also taking one last job, posing as security to the same rich client, but on a recovery operation. The last thing they each expected was to see each other working the same job, but from a different angle. Now they need to learn to work together to get the job done, before its too late. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and cant wait to read the 2nd in the series and see what happens next.

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The Confectioner’s Exile: The Confectioner Chronicles Prequel Novella by Claire Luana – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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The Confectioner's Exile: The Confectioner Chronicles Prequel NovellaThe Confectioner’s Exile: The Confectioner Chronicles Prequel Novella by Claire Luana
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Confectioner’s Exile is a prequel novella in The Confectioner Chronicles, by Claire Luana. I have not read any of the other books in this series, but I have read other series by Luana. Once again, she did not disappoint. The story follows Hale, a spoiled rich boy, who has life handed to him and has never worked a day in his life. He spends his time gambling and chasing girls. That is until one night when he goes from the top of the chain, to the bottom. An instant fugitive on the run with his life on the line. The characters are wonderfully crafted, with backgrounds and relationships that are fun to read about. There are different emotions felt, creating a good balance. There are moments of carefree fun, but also some serious chapters, filled with regret, loss and motivation. I highly enjoyed it and can’t wait to see what she has in store for Hale and his future in the Confectioner’s Guild.

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Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders Book 1) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders, #1)Tomb for an Eagle by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tomb for an Eagle is the first book in the Orkneyinga Murder series, by Lexie Conyngham. It is also the first book I have read by the author. It is set in the viking era, and is about a dead body that is found, crudely buried, and with an eagle. While the story is fictional, it has some historical aspects as well, which I like. It was hard for me to get into, because there are a lot of characters, and with odd names. But once I figured out who is who, I enjoyed the rest of the story. It is very mysterious and that kept me engaged because I wondered what would happen next. There were a lot of twists and surprises, which is always good. Murder mysteries are never any fun when you figure them out halfway through, so another good thing about this book. I give it a 4 star, because I enjoyed it, but it isn’t a favorite. There is a lot of detail and story building, with great characters and interactions.

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My Tragic Life: Brothers of Camelot Prequel (My Life Series Book 2) by Necie Navone – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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My Tragic Life: Brothers of Camelot Prequel (My Life Series Book 2)My Tragic Life: Brothers of Camelot Prequel by Necie Navone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My Tragic Life is the 2nd book in an amazing series. Necie Navone did an amazing job keeping me hooked all the way through, and directly into the 3rd book. You must read this book following My Hidden Life, which you should do right away because its wonderful. This series of 3 books is a prequel to the Brothers of Camelot series she is also writing. The characters are well written, with great interactions. The story is written mostly in the perspective of Aless, but with an occasional chapter from the supporting characters. It continues her story, as she gets older, following the responsibilities she carries as the Princess of her Family, essentially a Mafia Princess. With this position comes power, fear, respect, money, but Aless would give it all up to be a normal teenage, who could make her own destiny and choose her own partner. I love the balance the book has, with a little bit of longing and dreams, alongside drama and intense scenes, with a small dash of romance. It is a page turner, and kept me hooked all the way through, and into the next book in the series. Highly recommend it.

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Love, Christmas – Movies You Love (The Holiday Series Book 2) Anthology – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Love, Christmas - Movies You Love (The Holiday Series Book 2)Love, Christmas – Movies You Love by Mimi Barbour
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Love, Christmas – Movies You Love (The Holiday Series Book 2) is a great collection of love stories focused around Christmas. I haven’t gotten to them all yet, but it seems to be a good mix, something for everyone. Each story is inspired by the author’s favorite Christmas movie, which is a fun twist. Most of the stories seem to be short stories, but there are a few longer ones, that are possibly full length. I will do a review on a couple of the stories I’ve read, and plan to cuddle up on the couch with a blanket over the next month finishing the others.
A Royal White Christmas by Leanne Banks is one of the shorter stories, but it was cute. It tells the story of two unlikely people falling in love in a small town. Holly has traveled back home to watch over her brother’s farm while he is deployed. She has been living in New York City, and is way out of her element. Finding herself in snow storms, while looking for her brother’s dog, as well as milking goats. A nearby visiting neighbor, Brice, comes to her rescue more than once. During these short, but frequent encounters, they develop feelings for each other, and things quickly take off. The biggest bump in the road is Brice being the heir to the crown.
Suzanne Jenkin’s Christmas with the Clouds is not what I expected. The story starts out very heavy, with the main character,Tracy’s husband dying. She finds herself leaning on her patient for support, and making a best friend out of the ordeal. During her healing process, she relies on her in-laws, and new best friend. An unexpected visitor at Christmas, leads Tracy to find love in the most unexpected place of all. Great turn around from the start of the story, and enjoyable to read. I love happy endings!
In the spirit of Christmas by Alyssa Bailey is about Tara returning home after a bad breakup. Before even making it into town, she gets a flat tire, and in rides Chase, a knight in shining armor…or rather sexy sheriff in uniform, to save the day. She is in for a big surprise, when she gets home and sees that same sexy sheriff in her dad’s living room! Cute story, and I loved the writing. I will be seeking out more of Alyssa Bailey in the future.

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My Hidden Life: Brothers of Camelot Prequel (My Life Series Book 1) by Necie Navone – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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My Hidden LifeMy Hidden Life by Necie Navone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My Hidden Life is an amazing start to a trilogy that I cant wait to finish. It is a prequel to the Brother of Camelot stories, but the first in the My Life Series by Necie Navone. It is a coming of age story, about Alessandra, the Princess of the Canzano Family. Her family is part of the Italian mob, and her dad decided, when she was just 6 years old, she will be the one to take over as the boss of the Family. Her uncle Louie has dedicated his life to protect her, as well as train her. Due to the target on her back, her father decides she must be trained to protect herself in any situation, regardless of being a child. She thinks it is fun as a young girl, but soon tires of it and wishes for a normal teenage life. These feelings intensify after she meets a boy, who doesn’t know her past or story, and sparks fly.
Navone quickly made a lifelong fan. I read The Only One earlier this year, which will be tied into this series. I enjoyed it, so when I heard about this book being a prequel, I jumped on it, and was blown away. This story has it all, a little bit of drama, romance, fear, devotion, so many strong feelings. It is told mostly from Alessandra’s point of view, with a mix of her uncle’s as well. I highly recommend this book, and cannot wait to see what happens in both series to come.

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ALTERATIONS TRILOGY: Alterations, Game Changer, Primal Will by Jane Suen – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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ALTERATIONS TRILOGY: Alterations, Game Changer, Primal WillALTERATIONS TRILOGY: Alterations, Game Changer, Primal Will by Jane Suen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alterations Trilogy by Jane Suen is a collection of the books Alterations, Game Changer, and Primal Will. They must be read together, in order, to get the complete story. It is kinda sci-fi, Divergent style story, of mind altering technology. Just reading the synopsis drew me in, and I was dying to read it. However, I had a hard time following it at first. There were a lot of characters, that it bounced around between, and I had difficulty keeping their stories straight. It wasn’t until half way through the book I understood they weren’t all going to meet, but rather, had 1 character in common. The series follows 3 women after being implanted with a mind controlling chip from Dr Kite. The chip changes their lives, each in a unique way. The procedure seems like a fix all, but things do all go as planned. Read the whole collection to learn these ladies stories, and see if they get their happily ever after.
I read each story on its own, but in order. I love that the collection is together, because they pick up right where the previous story left off. These books are really 3 parts to the same story and is one you don’t want to put down. The stories alternate between the views of the characters. Primal Will pulled all the stories together, letting us see how they all intertwine. The series didn’t end the way I hoped, or expected, but I enjoyed them. I was anticipating a huge twist at the end, and didn’t get that. The books are quite short, but move quickly and are filled with raw content, without much filler. I love that, because it is a good story, that can be enjoyed quickly. I often loose interest in long drawn out series. 4 star book for me.

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Give and Take (The Thorne Brothers Book 2) by Lee Kilraine – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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Give and Take (The Thorne Brothers, #2)Give and Take by Lee Kilraine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Give and Take is the 2nd part of the Thorne Brothers series by Lee Kilraine. It is the first book I have read by the author, but I plan to read more. I did not go in order, and didn’t read book 1, Give it Up, yet. But I still really enjoyed this book, the characters were great. Their chemistry was entertaining and I didn’t want to put it down. It has a good balance of evolving story and romance. The story is based around Rhia Hollins and Wyatt Throne. Rhia is developing her new party planning business, and trying to finally make her parents proud. She has won a year of free office space from Six Brothers Construction. However, unforeseen circumstances, has her sharing an office with the youngest Thorne brother, Wyatt. He is studying to pass his architect exams, so he can start working in the family business, and is all work and no play. They could not be more opposite in personalities, but you know what they say, opposites attract.

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