No Amends by Angela Lam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I’ve been in a bit of a slump lately and this was the perfect book for this time of the year to pull me out of it. So much to this book that will keep you guessing and turning the pages. F/F romance giving you a look into dark perception of “love.” Can’t wait to read more by this talented author.
Tears into Gold by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a beautifully written fantasy adventure. It is a young adult story however I enjoyed it just as much. It is full of magic, mischief, forbidden love, danger and adventure around every corner. I loved the way the old saying “be careful what you wish for” comes into play in a big way in this story. The story itself is unique however the author uses parts of other stories and tales which to me make it even more magical.
The story focuses around a orphaned maid who as the story progress we learn is not all she seems. When she finds a magical creature which could give her what she needs to be free of her life as a servant she feels hope for the future. However, things don’t go as she imagined and when other find out about her gift it leads her on a adventure to escape the wish she thought she wanted. With so many elements and characters it is a fast paced magical read that I wasn’t able to put down until I completed the story.
I can’t wait to read this to my neices who i know will adore it.
Ross: Central Florida Stories by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the fourth book in the Central Florida Stories series. These books can be read as standalones, but I do recommend reading the entire series as there are characters which interconnect.
The author was able to portray the emotions of the characters very well, to the point you can’t help but get emotionally invested in them. The trauma that Hadley has experienced (as an example) and how this has affected her, changed her and the danger she’s in tugs at your heartstrings, you want to jump in and take the pain away.
The descriptive narrative paints vivid imagery that makes you feel you could step into the world alongside the characters and experience what they do.
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Hadley and Ross, the chemistry was evident, and the progression was believable. The character development was also enjoyable and believable.
This is was enjoyable read and contains doms and subs and BDSM so if this is not for you be aware of this. I’m hoping for more soon!
Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A contemporary romance with a twist of danger, thrills, intrigue, and so much more.
Hannah Patel has been through the ringer this past year with the terrible murder of her beloved brother. She lives her life as a Public Defender, believing that every one deserves a chance. During her time in the public eye, she managed to catch the unwanted eye of a stalker, one who’s methods are progressively getting worse and worse.
Enter Doyle Murphy, a man who doubts his ability to protect after a fatal incident. At least, until he sees his redemption in protecting Hannah and keeping her safe.
This was a great read, and I highly suggest this for some whirlwind romance!!
Liar, Liar by Winter Austin
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is the fourth book in the McIntire County series. It can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the others first.
As usual the author’s writing style is great, flowing well and descriptive, creating vivid imagery of characters and scenery. There were plenty of twists and secrets in this book and I think the plot has a lot of potential to be incredible, but this was my least favourite of the series so far.
This was an enjoyable story overall, but the characters are what tampered my enjoyment in this one. I really enjoy the series, but there was something about the characters that didn’t have the same realism for me. I felt for them both, and it was great that the emotion was there with their difficult pasts but as the story progressed the character interactions became less believable.
Overall this was enjoyable and I look forward to more.
Merry Christmas, Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
An enjoyable and engaging festive contemporary romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Having read and enjoyed the previous books in the series I was looking forward to returning to Marietta, Montana and ‘catching up’ with the millers, however it can also be read as a standalone story. Single Mum Riley O’Sullivan lives in Portland with her young son Dylan, she isn’t one to complain and definitely does not believe in miracles, even at Christmas. Having traveled to Marietta to spend Christmas with her family, the last thing she needs is maddening Mitch Miller coming to her rescue and surprisingly awakening her senses. Mitch moved to the small town with his two sisters having left a successful financial career behind him, but he’s definitely not looking for love, until Riley. Riley seems to captivate him like no woman ever has, of course she thinks he’s overprotective and a grinch.
Meanwhile Riley is also having to deal with Dylan asking questions about Dads and what they do. Mitch thinks that both mother and son could do with a little Christmas magic, not thinking that he could be about to loose his heart to them both. Neither Riley or Mitch know that Dylan made a Christmas wish, which if it comes true will bring them all together, as a Christmas miracle! As usual the descriptive narrative brings the characters and the wonderful Marietta vividly to life, including the small town feel. The chemistry between Riley and Mitch really came across in the narrative, and I loved the relationship development between both them and Dylan. This was a perfect book to read to get into the Christmas spirit!
The Man In Black by L.R. Liverpool
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Man In Black is a wild west thriller with a gay romance. It’s fun, engaging and at times gripping. We follow the young protagonist, who has named himself Simon Shaw, as he pursues his dream of joining an outlaw gang.
Simon is a wonderful protagonist. He is naive in many ways, but has a clear vision of the future he wants and who he wants to be within it. Like many queer people, he is resisting the path that is seemingly laid out for him and following the only path he can think of that allows an escape.
This story is well researched with plenty of immersive world building. It’s cinematic at times! This, along with the suspense of the mysterious murders, will draw you into a book you will struggle to put down. (But please do put it down occasionally, it’s long and you need to eat!).
This book gets five stars from me! I love LGBT+ representation in genre fiction and this is a great example.
The Calamities of Camden Callahan by Brittany Tucker
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I also don’t typically (or ever) read fantasy as a genre. This is a well written, detailed book. I appreciate the author’s detail in the world building and background of the story. The characters were well thought out and developed well throughout the story. You get pulled into the story and want to keep reading which is a good aspect of any well written story. I’m glad I took a chance on this one.
Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is book four of the series. This is a romantic suspense novel.
Hannah is still struggling with her brother’s murder. She turns to family and work to help get her through. Doyle is doubting his future but maybe he can redeem himself. Hannah needs protection from the person that has become obsessed with her and Doyle needs to redeem himself. Neither one of them knew that their closeness would lead to more issues.
This was a good read. The books don’t need to be read in order. There was just enough suspense to suck you in and keep you waiting to finish it. The story was well written. The progression of Hannah and Doyle’s relationship was realistic. I enjoyed this book.
Merry Christmas, Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Merry Christmas, Montana” by Elsa Winckler is a heartwarming and captivating holiday romance novel that transports readers to the enchanting setting of Montana during the festive season. The story revolves around Riley and Mitch, two characters whose lives unexpectedly become intertwined during a snowstorm.
Winckler’s descriptive writing style beautifully brings the picturesque Montana landscape to life, immersing readers in the magic of the holiday season. The characters are well-developed, relatable, and have undeniable chemistry, making their journey towards love all the more engaging. The book blends romance, family dynamics, and a touch of Christmas spirit, creating a delightful and feel-good read that is perfect for the holiday season.
Whether you’re a fan of romance novels or simply looking for a heartwarming story to put you in a festive mood, “Merry Christmas, Montana” is a charming choice that will leave you with a warm and cozy feeling.
Mr Wimp by B.L. Wilde
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
After twelve years of marriage, Joel announces he is leaving Bella.
‘I’d never experienced heartbreak before. I’d coasted for so long, content with what I had been given, that this all seemed like a strange dream. This wasn’t happening. Things like this didn’t happen to me. Joel was meant to be safe; it was one of the reasons I had married him. Why was he doing this to me? “I can’t do this anymore. I’m leaving you.”
Throughout the following months, Bella realizes how much she has changed and how she loss her interest in being married. She starts to resume hanging out with friends,
‘It turned out, I was still a social butterfly. Most of my evenings lately either involved Zumba, a live music event or I’d go to the pub with my friends. I’d lost this part of me for so long that I thought this bubbly, vibrant version of me didn’t exist anymore. It amazed me how I’d allowed one person to change me so much. I couldn’t even recall when I had started to lose myself. It must have been a gradual thing. Year by year, pieces of me had floated away into the abyss that had been our relationship. It made me think: had I ever been happy? Had I settled for Joel, thinking it wouldn’t get any better? Honestly, looking back now… I had.”
I could relate to Bella with this. The relationship lasted only a year, but I started to stop doing things that I enjoyed such as going to the movie theaters and going out to dinner by myself because my significant other at the time did not like to do them so I stopped. It has taken years before I started to enjoy them again, which included reading fanfiction. How one could get so invested in a relationship that they lose themselves. In a weird way, it was a relief to know that I was not the only person that has done that.
I was enjoying this book so much that when I turned the page, I was shocked to see that there would be a sequel called ‘Mr. Smooth’. I did say out aloud ‘WTF, you can’t just end it there!’
Needless to say, I am anxiously waiting to read the next part. I knew it was short, but I was unprepared just how quickly I would be reading it.
Saint Con by Seelie Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. Con and Jessica’s romance was quick but romantic. I was concerned about how fast they were moving, but could tell Con was super into Jessica and that wasn’t going away anytime soon. When tragedy struck, my heart kind of broke a little wondering how things would play out with their future. I was confused about how Jessica’s friend Syd and Con’s brother knew each other but, it didn’t deter from the point of the book. The thoughts behind the book and the concept of the story was great. I like how this author worked, helping the homeless into this book, it flowed so nicely and really makes you think how you can help in your own area.
Merry Christmas, Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh this story did warm my old heart and give me all the right feels. LOL I love a well written, creative Romance and this book is definitely that and so much more. Add in the Christmas setting and its a case of winner winner chicken dinner!! LOL It is a fun small town romance filled with wonderful characters, family, love and laughter. Oh and who doesn’t love a wedding!! Now this is the third book in this particular series and the second that I have actually read. I will definitely be going back to find the book I am missing because I just fell so in love with so many characters that I need to know more about their stories to complete my reading experience. I am so happy to add this talented author to my must read list!
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The Moon That Fell from Heaven by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
The Moon That Fell from Heaven (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes
The Moon That Fell from Heaven Empire at Twilight) is a Historical story that will captivate you from the beginning all the way to the end. This author has done it yet again with her vivid yet captivating details that paints such a vivid picture in your mind that you feel like you are apart of the story. Her characters are strong, relatable and simply wonderful. Get ready to be taken on quite the emotional journey of love, determination to save the kingdom and so much more. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I look forward to reading more from this Author
Liar, Liar by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Liar, Liar (The McIntire County Series Book 4) by Winter Austin
Liar, Liar is the fourth book in The McIntire County Series and is a wonderfully written Suspense Romance that will have you turning the pages till the end. The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was going to happen next. This author knocked it out of the park yet again her style of writing, attention to detail along with complex yet developed characters make for a epic story. This is a fast paced story about Shane and Liza and their determination to find the killer before it’s to late. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I look forward to reading more from this Author.
The Lightning Horse by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Lightning Horse is the first book in the Empire at Twilight Series. It is a historical fiction that takes place in the exotic land of Turkey during the Hittite empire. The story centers around the character of Tiwatipara who is a young Hittite charioteer. He is kind, smart, funny, loyal and a hero to many. He is reeling with grief, guilt, and sorrow over the loss of his father in a chariot accident. When Tiwatipara learns that the death of his father during a chariot accident was actually sabotage intended for the King he sets out to seek the killer. As he sets out to uncover the truth, he finds out that some friends may not be what they seem, and that political corruption is at the root of it. Danger lurks and Tiwatipara must determine who are his true friends and who are his enemies. This book was well written with historical accuracy and a great attention to detail. It had action, suspense, mystery, murder, betrayal, deceit, lies, secrets, and good versus evil.
The Singer and Her Song by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Singer and Her Song is the second book in the Empire at Twilight Series. It is a historical fiction That centers around the character of Uqnitum and is set in the Kingdom of Mittani. Uqnitum comes from a long line of famous singers who must find her way in the world after she finds herself a pregnant widow. When her husband and youngest child lose their lives after Mittani falls to the Assyrians the stress becomes unbearable for Uqnitum. As the pressure of life escalates for her, she becomes a danger to those around her and she must find a way to find who she is without her husband and child. Uqnitum was someone that I instantly felt a connection to and felt great empathy for. Losing her husband and child was devastating and heartbreaking. This book was beautifully written, haunting, and full of rich historical details. It has sorrow, heartbreak, loss, love, tragedy, drama, anguish, family drama, and the horrors of war.
The Queen’s Dog by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Queen’s Dog is Book Three in the Empire at Twilight Series. It is a historical crime mystery that centers around the character of Naheshi who is the Queen’s slave. Naheshi is a eunich who yearns for the love of the self-absorbed Queen and feels rejected when she does not love him back. Feeling scorned he spies on her and reports all of her disloyal activities in the hopes that she will get a divorce. When Naheshi learns that the Queen is set to be executed he must try to save her and free himself of the burden of his own guilt. Another well written book in this series with vivid details and historical information. This book had action, drama, betrayal, lies, deception, revenge, secrets, and love from afar.
The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Sun at Twilight is Book Four in the Empire at Night Series. It is a historical mystery that centers around the character of Tudhaliya IV in the Hittite Empire. He wants to rule his empire as past leaders have but his advisors have other ideas on how he should rule. The way in which he wants to rule is viewed as weak and Tudhaliya risks losing his kingdom to his cousin Kurunta. This was a great read that was vivid, and rich with historical information. It was full of mystery, action, suspense, conflict, betrayal, and family drama.
The Moon That Fell from Heaven by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Moon That Fell From Heaven is Book Five in the Empire at Night series. It is a Historical mystery that combines both fact and fiction together. The story centers around Ehli-nikkalu, the eldest daughter of the Hittite Emperor. She feels unloved and unwanted by her family, her husband, and her husband’s family. Her husband feels that she is useless because she cannot bear children, yet he rarely visits their matrimonial bed. She is a kind and gentle soul that is easy to empathize with. Ehli-nikkalu stumbles onto some dangerous information and must find a way to get it to her father while trying to keep her kingdom safe from the threat of war. This is a well-written book full of historical details that transport you back in time. This book had action, suspense, danger, angst, murder, betrayal, and twists and turns.
The Calamities of Camden Callahan by Brittany Tucker
The Calamities of Camden Callahan is a YA Fantasy that centers around the character of Camden who lost his mother at a young age and was taken in by the captain of a pirate ship. The book starts off with a bang as young Camden and his mother are fleeing from Camden’s father who is determined to kill them. They are almost able to reach the safety of a ship when Camden’s mother is killed in front of him by an unknown assailant. Camden’s mother’s dying wish is for the captain of the nearby pirate ship who discovers her after her attack to care for her son and keep him safe from his father. Fast forward several years and Camden is now nineteen. He has been living the life of a pirate and closely guarding his identity. A dangerous job leads to the burning of the pirate ship which leads to the loss of numerous lives of his crew, including himself. Having risen from the ashes of the burned ship Camden sets off on a journey to find the members of his crew who were kidnapped and a mission to seek revenge on those that murdered other members of his crew. Along his journey he must place his life in farther danger by resuming his true identity which could lead to his father catching up with him after all these years. This book had action, suspense, mystery, murder, pirates, magic, and ghosts. The storyline will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions with the highs and lows. I highly recommend this book!
1897 A Mark Sutherland Adventure by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
1897 by Kimberly Mullins is an intriguing adventure story set in the late 1800’s. The historical detailing, as expected from Ms. Mullins, was on point, her descriptions and attention to detail really setting the scene for her story.
I have loved reading the Notebook Mysteries series, so when I saw that this was being released, I was excited to find out what it would contain. Even though this is a standalone story, it does connect to the Notebook Mysteries series in a small way, as our MC here has ties with Emma who is the MC of the Notebook series. I thought that small detail added an extra element of interest to the story, for me.
Mark Sutherland is an intrepid reporter travelling to the Yukon to report on the gold rush there. But this novel is beautifully layered, combining multiple threads which Ms. Mullins has deftly woven into a rich and complex production. Mark’s journey is full of harrowing moments, harsh conditions, mystery, tension, dramatic developments, challenges, family, friendship, hope, resilience, determination, courage, danger, agendas, and even a little romance. His introspective inner dialogue adding an extra facet to the storyline too.
The ending of this book was sweet, and left room for more adventures in the future.
Looking forward to more from Ms. Mullins, soon.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Kimberly Mullins!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Melt My Heart by Alicia Street
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Melt My Heart is the third book in the North Fork series by Alicia Street. This is a wonderful, heart-warming, and well-written contemporary holiday romance. As I was reading this, I realised that I knew the story because I had already read it a few years ago when it was part of the ‘Irresistible At Christmas- Pets to the Rescue’ Anthology. I’m not sorry that I have reread now though, as this as it is such a sweet story- and I’ve enjoyed it just as much this time as I did when I first read it.
Melt My Heart is a touching story that highlights the healing power of love. Throw in a cute K9, two people who want nothing to do with love or romantic feelings, and set during the holidays -> and we have a winning recipe. Mixed with plenty of heart, emotion, drama, family, second chances, a little angst, finding love unexpectedly, and plenty of heartwarming details too.
The characters have both been damaged by past experiences, they really deserved happiness- so I was rooting for them – completely investing in them and the outcome of their story.
As expected from Ms. Street, it’s a very enjoyable read with plenty of heart.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Alicia Street!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
While this is the 4th book in a series, It’s the 1st book I’ve had the privilege of reading by Becky Flade. Hannah and Doyle’s story drew me in INSTANTLY. I couldn’t put this book down, no matter how much my eye protested. The way the story unfolded kept me on the edge of my seat. I was truly impressed with how knowledgeable the author was with the way law enforcement works and how smoothly it all played out. It was like watching a movie in my head. One I will definitely be “watching” again. I will also be checking out more books in this series, and highly suggest this one!
Review By Manda Kelly
Melt My Heart by Alicia Street
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Sweet, swoon-worthy, lovable, heartwarming and wonderful story. I loved this book and already had me hooked with Reggie the rescue pup. Can two strangers who meet trying to rescue a scared pup find love when both have been hurt before?
Wynter is trying to piece her life back together after a very bad break up. Knowing she has sworn off love, she is focused on getting her career back on track….until she meets Caleb by chance while trying to rescue a pup. Caleb is a former Navy SEAL and now works in selling very expensive yachts for a living. Caleb was in love at one time, but that love ended up in hurt and since has sworn on being in a steady relationship. When Caleb meets Wynter….and gets to know she is a bit tough as nail on the outside, his walls start fall just a bit at a time as well as Wynter’s and her insecurities. As a secret letter was received by both Caleb and Wynter…piecing together a history that sheds some light….will Caleb and Wynter fall for each other when past trauma comes in and insecurity tried to get the best of Wynter?
I definitely recommend this book……this was a great story and I loved every page from beginning to end. I am looking forward to reading more from the author.
1897 A Mark Sutherland Adventure by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first novel about Mark Sutherland and his adventures, and hopefully will continue in a series. I like historical fiction that has a real basis to it, and this novel is based on some historical facts. At the end of the book the author does add a small section of historical context of the novel was based on. There is some mystery and suspense has Mark goes on his journeys as a reporter. The interesting plot line keeps the reader turning the pages to find out what happens at the end. I’ve heard several works by mullins, and I always enjoy the stories that she writes. This book is no different!
Almost and Forever by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Good gravy Miss Daisy! I was on an emotional rollercoaster with this book. Things would go absolutely fantastic and then out of no where sucker punch to the gut, wash, rinse and repeat. Ms. Parker does an absolute fantastic job with showing the stages of grief in a healthy way. Adam and Hope are great together. They have a few bumps along the way and sometimes huge pot holes to navigate, but Hope makes sure that Adam doesn’t shut her out or shut down. She makes sure he communicates what he’s feeling. Sweet sweet Adam. I just want to wrap this man in a blanket and keep him from all hurt. Reading this book made me feel all of the feels, but it was definitely worthwhile in the end.
Almost and Forever by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Almost and Forever was different. Not a bad different, but a fantastic different. The author sucks the reader into a tearjerker. This book is filled with love, turmoil, grief, understanding, loyalty, guilt, and every other feeling under the sun. You don’t always get all those in a romance. You always get some of it but not as in depth. The story that was told was sad but healing and that’s what I loved about it.
Ava/Hope finds herself making a New Years wish. What she wasn’t expecting was the handsome stranger asking her what she wished for. Little did she know that in time he would become a huge life changing piece of her life. In more ways than one.
Adam has been through the ringer. He lost the woman he loves. How is he expected to move forward? Ivory tried to prepare him, yet he kept turning a blind eye to reality. What was completely unexpected was coming across the unforgettable woman from New Years. He called her Hope for a reason, will he realize that?
These two end up on a collision course they didn’t see coming, is it for the best?
I enjoyed how the author presented the story. Even though you could figure out what was going to happen, the author kept the reader guessing on the how and when. Which made it even better. I look forward to coming across more books by this author in the future.
1897 A Mark Sutherland Adventure by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another great book from this author and what I hope is a new series. Mark who works for the paper as a journalist and butnis always seeking adventure. Mark soon finds that adventure is all around. This was an awesome read with all the side adventures leading up his bug adventure. I also loved that Mark was a character in the authors other series. It was as if he got his own spin off. You’ll find yourself falling on love with old characters and welcoming new all in the first chapter.
