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Real Movie Hero (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 2) by Debra Parmley – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Real Movie HeroReal Movie Hero by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another action packed military romantic suspense which had me happily turning the pages. A fairly quick read but a great storyline and I was hooked throughout. Christie is excited to be attending the movie premiere of Turn and Deliver, a new action, adventure movie on the anniversary of D-Day. Having been looking forward to a fun girls night out all dressed up she is upset when her friend cancels, leaving Christie to go to the theatre alone. Meanwhile, Marine Reed was lucky and won a ticker via his local ration station, and he can’t believe his luck when a very attractive young lady sits in the seat next to him. Christie can’t ignore how handsome the Marine next to her is, but she’s even more thankful for sitting next to him when a live shooter fires into the crowd. Reed must act quickly and use all his skills to get himself, Christie and the others out alive, and take down the shooter. This is a fast paced story full of action, drama, suspense and romance, in which the characters and the setting come alive through the descriptive narrative. I’m enjoying this series and look forward to book 3.

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Echoing Hearts (The Echo Series Book 1) by C.R. Alam – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Echoing Hearts (Book 1 of The Echo Series)Echoing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance with an enemies to lovers love triangle theme, which kept me happily turning the pages. Having watched her mother have her heart broken and then deteriorating into depression, Rae Allen has vowed never to fall in love. She’s perfectly happy and certainly does not need a man as she travels the world, getting paid for it and living her dream. Likewise, Dean Rowland has sworn off women after his fiancé left him at the alter, the only way he could continue was to keep going like nothing had happened. Working all hours has definitely paid off as he now has a thriving business and more money than he will ever need. Rae and Dean’s first meeting is not great, especially as she wasn’t expecting him to be there and he thought she was trespassing on his property!
Rae admitted her first impression was that he was hot, followed by thinking he was an ass. Dean wasn’t expecting to play host to a sassy redhead all weekend, but the encounter changes both their lives forever. The chemistry between Rae and Dean sizzles off the page but I like the slow burn romance between them as well. However, when Brandon, a rockstar and Rae’s best friend arrives he stirs up jealousy and doubt between the couple. This story took me on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading it, wondering if they would trust in love or not. The characters were brought to life, as was the setting by the descriptive narrative and I felt engaged with Rae and Dean and immersed in their story. I look forward to the next book in the series.

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The Man in Black by L.R. Liverpool – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Man In BlackThe Man In Black by L.R. Liverpool
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an exciting MM romance set in the Wild West which kept me hooked throughout. Fenimore James is a rather naive dreamer when he runs away from home and goes west in order to become a famous outlaw, known as Simon Shaw. However, his imagined life full of glamorous robberies never materialises, and instead he finds himself joining the notorious Red Evans gang. He quickly finds himself in the middle of a strange and bloody game when gang members start being murdered by a mysterious pursuer, who then leaves cryptic signs scarifying their bodies. Things become more dangerous when the gang boss becomes paranoid and suspects one of his own men is the murderer. Meanwhile, Simon begins questioning his own sexuality, when he finds himself falling for a fellow male gang member. Complicating Simon’s life further are his dreams which are plagued by a bizarre dream figure, the Man In Black. This is a gripping mystery thriller with plenty of drama, suspense and violence, but also a developing MM romance. The characters and setting are brought to life by the descriptive narrative and the added historical details transported me to the Wild West.

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Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand Series Book 1) by Nicole E. Kelleher – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand, #1)Wild Lavender by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging fantasy romance with an epic storyline spanning realms, mystical prophecy’s and royal intrigue. Healer and warrior Lady Aubrianne protects those she loves, so when she discovers that her frequently absent husband Lord Roger, maybe caught up in treason she must avoid them all being implicated. Meanwhile, Royal Guard of Aurelia and known rake, Larkin is investigating the increasingly wealthy Lord Roger, and what his dealings are with a rival realm. Craving adventure Larkin sets off, but is shocked to find the women who’s haunted his dreams ever since they met years before, Anna (Lady Aubrianne). Unfortunately the punishment for treason is death to all those involved, meaning that if Lord Roger is found guilty, so will his wife, unless Anna can prove her innocence. This is an exciting fantasy epic with a story full of ambition, drama, murder and sizzling romance, which had me hooked throughout. The characters and settings were brought vividly to life through the wonderfully detailed descriptive narrative, making me feel immersed in the story. I look forward to the next book in this series.

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My Inner Critic by Christine Bernard – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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My Inner CriticMy Inner Critic by Christine Bernard
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is an emotional and inspirational story which is part truth and part fiction, as the blurb says, “this is the author’s own journey, told through a made-up world”. The storyline is about an introvert living in an extroverted world, and the main character, thirty eight year old Emily Parker still feels as awkward and anxious as she did at eighteen. However, as a young adult other people accepted this, and even reassured her that it was an expected part of growing up, and things would improve. For Emily though her insecurities have only gotten worse, and she now feels she has to hide her feelings and put on a fake smile for everyone.
She has gotten used to making excuses and avoiding situations, but when this doesn’t work she then spends more time trying not to make a fool of herself, that she never actually enjoys herself. Emily is now familiar with her ‘inner critic’, the ever present and getting louder voice telling her she doesn’t fit in, and making her worry way too much. The author writes so honestly and sensitively about real issues that many women feel, that reading this book makes you feel like your not alone. It definitely took me on an emotional rollercoaster, but it was worth it for the uplifting message that comes across in the skilful writing.

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A Mountain in the Air: A Trilogy by Laura Koerber – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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A Mountain in the Air: A TrilogyA Mountain in the Air: A Trilogy by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An original trilogy with an intriguing storyline, the book consists of three connected novellas, set in a near future, dystopian world. In this dystopian fantasy the world has been ravaged by climate change, and this world has been brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative. The story is full of unique characters, such as coyote shapeshifter and guardian spirit Jim. Jim is forced to leave his home due to the heat and drought, who travels through the Pacific Northwest searching for a new home.

Meanwhile, Rachel the Raven lives and runs a tavern in a dying timber town. She helps to protect the small community around her, a group of elderly survivalists. Then there is grunge musician Pete, who used to have a local following before disappearing into the wilderness of Mt. Rainier forty years ago. Feeling lonely he starts to reach out to people, in their dreams. This is an enjoyable and engaging read with interesting characters all of whom have a story to tell. The trilogy kept me hooked from start to finish, and I would definitely recommend it.

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Three Made In Heaven (Made In Heaven #1) by Elena Kincaid – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Three Made in Heaven (Made in Heaven, #1)Three Made in Heaven by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging romance with a paranormal twist, which I really enjoyed. Maddie, Charlie and Cole are childhood friends, teenage crushes and then lovers, the only thing is, it’s all in Maddie’s dreams. However, her dreams seem so real that it can’t just be a fantasy and when she comes face to face with Charlie and Cole in the real world, she then has a choice to make. Charlie and Cole are both very real and have been meeting Maddie in her dreams for years, both loving and pining for her. Not being able to hide their feelings any longer they decide to confront Maddie, and convince her that they are indeed real and both in love with her.

Thinking she will have to choose between her two soulmates Maddie is confused, but she soon learns that the three of them are meant to be together. Just as their relationship is developing an unknown danger looms over the three of them, but Charlie and Cole are determined to protect Maddie, even if they risk their own lives. This is a fairly short read but it is full of romance, drama, the paranormal and plenty of steamy scenes. The characters are likeable and realistic and the chemistry between the three of them really sizzled off the page. The storyline had me hooked from start to finish and I look forward to the next book in this series.

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Shore Lodge by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Shore Lodge: A high-stakes psychological thriller (The Millersville series)Shore Lodge: A high-stakes psychological thriller by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A gripping psychological thriller that I found hard to put down, this is a real page turner of a novel. Newley widowed and grieving Jacklyn Stone is struggling to stay strong, having been left bewildered following her husband’s death. Although Jacklyn is usually independent, confident and manages her garden shop, she finds her life spiralling into chaos. When her son and daughter suggest going on a brief holiday to a remote retreat, where she can grieve and heal she reluctantly agrees. However, it’s not long until she realises that the so-called retreat is actually a psychiatric facility, and now she’s checked in she can’t check out. Reeling from the shocking betrayal of her children who seem determined to keep their mother locked up, Jacklyn fights hard to establish her mental stability. I was hooked from start to finish by the tragic storyline and atmospheric setting of this novel. I really felt for the main character, Jacklyn who was a great heroine and who I felt engaged with throughout the story. I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading this immersive novel. A great read and one which I definitely recommend.

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The 45th Parallel (Antipodes Series Book 6) by T.S. Simons – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The 45th Parallel (Antipodes, #6)The 45th Parallel by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the previous books in the Antipodes series, I was looking forward to this novel, and I was not disappointed. I would personally recommend reading these novels in order, so you have a better understanding of the continuing storyline. Set in the same dystopian world where a virus decimated the planet, this novel centres on Caitlin and Seraphine. They have both grown up on Lewis and have an ordered and calculated life. They are both ‘immune children’, created by the previous regime in order to ensure the survival of the human race. As there are only a few surviving communities left on earth, the girls destiny weighs heavily on them.
Cait and Sera are expected to have babies that will then be immune like they are, they are told that their role, “in re-settling the world is critical”. However, the girls reject this role and so they leave to embark on a thrilling and dangerous adventure, reactivating the Nexus, and discovering new worlds. By doing this Cait and Sera are endangering not only themselves but their loved ones. Once again I was drawn in to the world created by the author, who brings both the setting and characters vividly to life through the detailed, descriptive narrative. I loved the main characters Cait and Sera and the dynamic between them. I was gripped throughout and was kept happily turning the pages.

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The Muffin Shop Murder: A Delilah Crumbworthy Mystery by Holly Tierney – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Muffin Shop Murder: A Delilah Crumbworthy MysteryThe Muffin Shop Murder: A Delilah Crumbworthy Mystery by Holly Tierney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an enjoyable and engaging cozy mystery drama which had me hooked from page one. The small town feel of Snowflake Valley, the setting of this novel, was brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative, along with the quirky and intriguing characters who live there. The McArdles own the best bakery in town, but then rumours start that to save money they have been cutting corners. A tragic accident at the bakery seals their fate and the bakery has to close. The quaint old bakeshop doors are not closed for long as Delilah Crumbworthy takes over the bakery. As soon as she starts work she’s swamped by customers, new friends and some menacing happenings. It’s not long until along with running her new business on Main Street, and trying to make friends, that she’s having to solve a mystery or two. This is an entertaining read, and I fell in love with the main character, Delilah and am pleased that this is the first book in a new series. The storyline kept me happily turning the pages and the mystery element definitely kept me guessing.

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Grace Under Fire (The Anderson Sisters Book 2) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Grace Under FireGrace Under Fire by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance which had me hooked from start to finish. Grace Anderson is an artisan cheese maker and the fifth generation to work on the family farm. Unfortunately Grace has had a difficult time as her father was conned out of land, and her closest friend committed suicide. When her mother’s health deteriorates she’s determined to buy her parents out, before they loose the farm and run it alone. The bank make it difficult for Grace and she has to consider selling part of the land to neighbour Ryan Wilson. Ryan is back on his family farm after eight years away, to sell it. Ryan is still grieving for his younger brother Danny who committed suicide. Blaming himself he just wants to do what he’s good at, flipping farm properties, and then leave. Ryan does not like forming attachments with people or land, so he’s a bit mystified when he offers to help neighbour Grace.

When someone sabotages Grace’s purchase she reluctantly turns to Ryan for assistance, but finds more than financial help. Neither Grace or Ryan can ignore the chemistry between them, which sizzles off the page, but she needs to realise that accepting his help isn’t a failure and he needs to learn to open his heart again. Although this is the second book, it can be read as a standalone story, however having read and enjoyed the previous one I liked how the characters popped up in this novel. I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading this heartwarming romance. I loved the main characters, and how Ryan and Grace’s relationship developed. The setting was brought to life by the descriptive narrative and I felt immersed in the storyline, which kept me happily turning the pages.

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StoryTeller’s Tale (Wretched Soulz MC) by Manda Mellett – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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StoryTeller's Tale: Wretched Soulz MCStoryTeller’s Tale: Wretched Soulz MC by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this exciting standalone MC romance by one of my favourite authors, she never disappoints. The story introduces us to the Wretched Soulz MC, and nomad StoryTeller, who spends his time on the road travelling from place to place. However, when his Prez demands that he returns, StoryTeller makes his way back to the clubhouse. At a rest stop he finds a discarded brand new book with a dedication and author signature inside. As a book lover himself, he knows this is likely a prized possession and probably left behind by accident. StoryTeller decides to try and find the owner of the book, but all he has to go on is her name, Sheri written inside.
This is the start of a rollercoaster of a ride and a storyline which had me hooked throughout, and kept me gripped till the last page. Although StoryTeller’s never met Sheri he ends up putting his life in danger, and maybe even his MC at risk. As usual the plot twists and turns kept me happily turning the pages, and I soon felt completely immersed in the Wretched Soulz MC’s world. I loved the relationship between StoryTeller and Sheri and how it developed throughout the story, their chemistry sizzled off the page and led to some steamy scenes. The drama, suspense and romance kept me reading late into the night, this was a real page turner of a novel which I definitely recommend!

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The White Knight Cowboy (The Studs of Clear Creek County) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The White Knight Cowboy Stacy-DeanneThe White Knight Cowboy Stacy-Deanne by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging short romance story, which kept me happily turning the pages. Grumpy widowed cowboy Dusty, returns to his ranch in the small town of Clear Creek County. He is shocked to find the much younger, and beautiful black servant Lovely Jo in his stables hiding. Lovely Jo ran away having found the master of her household dead, but she’s adamant that she is innocent. She believes she’s a good judge of character and so when she needed help ran to Dusty. However, Dusty needs money in order to save his ranch, and there would be a bounty to collect if he returned her to the Sheriff. In fear for her life Lovely Jo promises him her virtue if he helps her escape town, however she never intended to fall in love with him. This is a interracial and age gap romance between wonderful characters, Dusty and Lovely Jo. The setting has a real small town feeling which was brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative, as was the time period the story is set in. An entertaining and heartwarming read.

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Lucky Stars by Fantasia Yu – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Lucky StarsLucky Stars by Fantasia Yu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging new adult space romance, which kept me hooked from start to finish. The reader is literally taken to other worlds in this Sci-Fi, fantasy story, and the descriptive narrative brings the settings vividly to life. Princess Mora just wants to break free from the constraints of her royal duties, and so escapes onto a tour craft, which is led by rebel pilot, Darin O’Joy. Mora and Darin travel together journeying across the galaxy, whilst evading a very persistent bounty hunter. The couple can’t deny their mutual attraction or their chemistry, which comes across in the narrative. However, as their relationship develops, Mora is still keeping her true identity, of being a royal princess, from Darin. As their journey continues, Mora discovers her own strength and the joy of being independent, but she will have to choose between true love or her royal obligations. This is a fairly quick read, and I was gripped throughout. The exciting storyline and wonderful characters, along with the fantastical world setting of moon planets, princesses on the run, rebel pilots, and space pirates, kept me happily turning the pages.

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Chatroom With A View by Glenn Maynard – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Chatroom With A ViewChatroom With A View by Glenn Maynard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a fast paced, rather dark and intense thriller, which had me hooked from page one. A real page turner of a novel, the storyline focuses on the idea that a ‘killer gene’ can be passed down through the generations of a family. The main character, Troy Cullen comes from a very dysfunctional family which has kept him from, “the normal integration with society”. However, it’s the knowledge that his ex girlfriend Veronica is pregnant that causes Troy’s life, and mental state to spiral out of control. Whilst Troy plots to “do unto others as they have done unto him”, Veronica looks into his family’s past. Veronica is shocked when she finds the ‘killer gene’, in Troy’s family, and must decide what action to take, knowing that her unborn child could also carry this gene. Meanwhile, Troy’s plans result in an epic showdown! This is an emotional rollercoaster of a read, with an intriguing storyline which kept me gripped throughout. It can be difficult to read in places due to the sensitive issues raised, but I felt engaged with the main characters and immersed in the story.

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Straight for the Kill (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 3) by Winter Austin – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Straight for the Kill (Benoit and Dayne Mystery, #3)Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A gripping and suspenseful crime thriller which kept me hooked from start to finish. Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series, I am familiar with the main characters, Elizabeth Benoit and Lila Dayne. I was looking forward to reading about their next case, and I was not disappointed. When a young woman is killed in the same circumstances as a death from twenty five years earlier, it’s more than a case of Déjà vu for Sheriff Elizabeth Benoit. The previous victim was Elizabeth’s best friend and Deputy Kyle Lundquist’s older sister, and Elizabeth has never stopped trying to catch her killer. Elizabeth is convinced that the crooked ex-Sheriff was involved in the crime, but although she has a thick file on him she knows she needs irrefutable proof.
Due to the legal consequences of Elizabeth being too close to the case, Deputy Detective Lila Dayne takes charge. However, she can’t seem to pin down their main suspect despite using all her investigative skills. When prominent members of the community begin to disappear, Elizabeth is back on the case, but things turn personal when her sister then goes missing. Benoit and Dayne must catch the killer, and end up in a showdown that’s been brewing for decades in Eckardt County. The storyline had me turning the pages well into the night, and the plot twists kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story. The descriptive narrative brought both the setting and characters vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the story. This was a real page turner of a novel, and one which I recommend.

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Saving the Bellydancer (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 3) by Debra Parmley – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Saving the Bellydancer (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 3)Saving the Bellydancer by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging romantic suspense story which had me hooked from start to finish. Navy SEAL Tony “Cutter” Cuttino seems to have a thing for strippers, much to his Grandma’s annoyance, but Cutter says that it’s all about their grace and athleticism for him. However, until American belly dancer and ex competitive gymnast Zarifah comes along no woman has held his attention. Zarifah, or Edith, is running away from an abusive ex who is in prison for turning violent when she wouldn’t give up her dancing. Neither Cutter or Zarifah can ignore the sizzling chemistry between them, and Zarifah loves how supportive Cutter is of her belly dancing. Even Cutter’s Grandma is keen to meet Zarifah. Things turn deadly when her ex storms one of her performances with a loaded weapon, but luckily not only is there a Navy SEAL in the building, but one who will do whatever it takes to protect the woman he loves. This is a heartwarming romance with plenty of drama and suspense to keep you gripped throughout. The chemistry between the main characters came across in the narrative, and I also loved Cutter’s Grandma’s character. An entertaining read.

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Handle With Care (Chase Care Book 1) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Handle With Care (Chase Care Book 1)Handle With Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A gripping medical romance suspense story which had me hooked from page one. Following the death of his partner Dr. Hunter Montgomery is promoted to Chief Medical Officer of Chase Care, in New Orleans. A face from his past, Dr. Selma Bryant, catches up with his present when she walks into his operating room. Selma has devoted most of her professional life to the US Army, even leaving the man she’s always loved, Hunter behind. However, Selma can’t stay with Hunter as she’s volunteered with Doctor’s Abroad at an African refugee camp.
Selma leaves with a secret, but having run from Hunter, she must deal with a deadly outbreak that is claiming the lives of refugees and volunteers. As the number of fatalities grow Hunter and the Chase Medical team are tasked with saving Selma and those in the camp. If Hunter and Selma survive the virus they might find their happily ever after together. This is a gripping story full of drama, tragedy, suspense and of course romance. The setting is brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative and the characters are likeable and relatable. The chemistry between Selma and Hunter sizzle off the page, and I liked how their relationship developed throughout the storyline. An emotional rollercoaster of a read, but one which I definitely recommend.

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Whispers in the Waters (Blood of the Fae) by Sarah Chilson – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Whispers in the Waters (Blood of the Fae, #0.5)Whispers in the Waters by Sarah Chislon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an enjoyable and engaging novella, in which Jessa Caldwell is a gently-bred herbalist, who is trying to be a lady whilst concealing her true nature. Jessa spends her days with her plants doing sketches, but only she knows that she hears whispers. When her beloved aunt is threatened, Jessa travels to a town which is dangerously close to an Otherworldly Crossing, where there is an ever-present risk of fae incursions. In order for her aunt to be protected, Jessa must find the individual who is responsible for a series of dangerous attacks.
However, it means embracing the part of herself that she keeps hidden out of fear of her true nature being exposed. Jessa lives in a world where Vigilists lock up fae-touched mortals, but if she’s to discover the truth and protect her love ones she will have to take that risk. This short read is a prequel to a new series, and it sets up the storyline and characters well. I enjoyed the mystery element which kept me hooked, and the setting was brought to life by the descriptive narrative. Jessa is a great heroine and I look forward to reading about more of her adventures.

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Throwing the Curve (Playing for Keeps Book 2) by Lauren Fraser – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Throwing the CurveThrowing the Curve by Lauren Fraser
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and entertaining sports romance, which kept me happily turning the pages. For star pitcher of The Hawkes, Ryan Graves’ his teammates are the most important thing to him, until he meets Peyton. When Peyton Sharp finds herself at a party with a married man she’s horrified, even though she had no idea that he was married. In being a good teammate Ryan helps out his cheating teammate, only to find himself with a fake girlfriend. Peyton somehow finds herself in a fake relationship with Ryan and she’s not happy. However, Ryan soon finds himself falling in love with Peyton, but she appears to hate him. This was a heartwarming and fun romance with likeable characters and a storyline which held my attention. The chemistry between Peyton and Ryan sizzles off the page, and I was hoping they would both get their HEA.

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The Taste of Light (The Winemakers Book 2) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Taste of Light (The Winemakers, #2)The Taste of Light by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the first book in this series I was looking forward to this novel, and I was not disappointed. It can be read as a standalone story, however, I do recommend reading the previous book as it’s so good! Set in Portugal, during 1872, and Pedro Daun is an aristocrat haunted by his sins and his murky past in Mozambique. Pedro shuts himself in his winemaking property, drowning himself in port, having lost his bride to an Englishman. Anne Maxwell moves to the Douro to help her new sister-in-law, but she dreams of finding the perfect man who will love her unconditionally. When Anne and Pedro meet Anne can see that Pedro yearns for love, and Pedro craves her touch, but he does not want her soiled by his past sins and so dose not act like the perfect prince from her dreams.
Things take a dangerous turn when a conspiracy is revealed and a false accusation is made against Pedro, turning the couple into fugitives. As Anne and Pedro try to hide from a treacherous enemy, they also try to prove that Pedro is innocent. The more time the couple spend together, the closer they get and their passion grows. However, for them to have a future, Pedro must forgive himself for his past and let Anne in, and Anne needs to understand that love isn’t like it is in fairy tales. This is a wonderful historical romance with likeable and relatable characters, an amazing setting and an intriguing storyline, all of which kept me hooked throughout. The descriptive narrative brings the stunning scenery vividly to life and the added historical details made me feel immersed in the era. I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster as I followed Anne and Pedro’s epic love story, and I was left thinking about them long after I had finished the last page. An enjoyable and engaging read, which I highly recommend.

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Chasing Redemption (The Quimby Grove Series Book 2) by Shannon Nikole – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Chasing Redemption (Quimby Grove #2)Chasing Redemption by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed being back in the small town world of Quimby Grove, and having loved the first book in this series I was looking forward to reading this story, and I was not disappointed. Marley and Max are strangers when they meet at the beach and have a one night stand, and having not even told each other their names they have no way of finding one another again. Marley works as an event planner in New York City and is a single mother to twins, a reminder of her night with Max. When Marley has to go to Quimby Grove to plan a wedding she did not expect to come face to face with Max. Max is just as shocked to find the woman, his one that got away, at his best friend’s wedding.
Marley has to explain to Max that he’s a father, and he’s determined to get Marley to stay in town. Just as they are navigating parenthood together, an unusual string of crimes are committed in Quimby Grove and Marley appears to be in the middle of them all. This is an enjoyable and engaging second chance at romance story, with enough drama and suspense to keep me hooked. The author does a great job of bringing the setting to life and the small town feeling really comes across in the narrative. Marley and Max are likeable and relatable characters and their chemistry came across in the writing. I look forward to returning to Quimby Grove again!

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Sharing His Nanny (Forever Our Girl Book 2) by Tori Chase – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Sharing His Nanny (Forever Our Girl, #2)Sharing His Nanny by Tori Chase
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An entertaining and enjoyable romance, which kept me happily turning the pages. Set at a Malibu beach house, up and coming plus-sized designer Stella has to act as a nanny for a month to a four-month-old baby. The baby belongs to Stella’s older stepbrother Charles, who never even noticed her, but who she had a crush on. Just as Stella thinks she can handle the situation and earn enough money to launch her own fashion line, she learns that as well as Charles, two of her stepbrother’s friends will also be staying at the beach house. After some innocent flirting with both Jordan and Alex it turns into nights of steamy pleasure with them both, whilst Charles watches but keeps his distance.
For Charles, Stella is his forbidden little sister, his employee, the hired help, and his nanny. However, the longer Charles resists, the more explosive it will be when the couple give into their taboo fantasies. Stella’s plan is to survive the month and then go back to her life as though nothing happened with the three men, but she doesn’t know what their plan is. The setting in Malibu is brought to life by the descriptive narrative and made me feel immersed in the story. I liked that the heroine of the story, Stella is a plus-sized women, as that is unusual in romance novels. The characters are well defined and their chemistry really sizzled off the page resulting in some steamy scenes, so it’s definitely a book for adult readers.

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The Hawke Family Complete Collection by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Hawke Family Complete CollectionThe Hawke Family Complete Collection by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed each book in this series, and ‘binge read’ this collection having been hooked from page one. Each story is about a different member of the Hawke family, and should be read in order, so as to fully understand and enjoy the storylines. I liked how the main characters were recurring throughout the series, and enjoyed ‘catching up’ with those who’s story had already been told. The wonderfully detailed descriptive narrative brought both the characters and the setting vividly to life, making me feel fully immersed in the Hawke family’s world.
The storyline and plot twists and turns have kept me happily turning the pages, completely gripped. I was desperate to read the next book in the series as soon as I had finished the previous one! I remained captivated by the Hawke family and their world throughout all six books. Each book had amazing world building, atmospheric settings, wonderful main characters and supporting ones, plenty of drama and suspense, and of course romance. The romance did lead to some steamy scenes, and the chemistry between each couple sizzled off the page. Each main character was very well defined and their relationships developed in each book. This collection is an entertaining and engaging read, and I am sad to be leaving the Hawke family behind. However, I am glad that I have read it and definitely recommend reading all six books.

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The Husbands by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The HusbandsThe Husbands by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an enjoyable and engaging MM romance which had me hooked from start to finish. The intriguing storyline and wonderful characters, in this fairly short read, made this a book that I had trouble putting down. Dorian and Augustine are brought together one night by an assassin who made a terrible mistake. As the men struggle in the aftermath, they begin to develop feelings for each other, however, they are both happily married and so decide to stay away from one another. Although they are both broken hearted they are determined to move on with their lives, after all they will never see each other again.
Wrong, three years later and Dorian and Augustine are shocked when their wives become friends and the men are introduced. Of course they can’t acknowledge what they mean to each other, but they also can’t deny their feelings and now that they are in each other’s lives again, thanks to their wives, it’s even more difficult to ignore their connection. The descriptive narrative brought both the setting and characters vividly to life, and made me feel immersed in the story. I was kept happily turning the pages wondering how it was going to end, no spoilers, but I definitely recommend reading this page turner of a book.

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Married Blind (King of Screen Book 2) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Married Blind (Kings of Screen, #2)Married Blind by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an enjoyable and entertaining contemporary romance novel, which kept me captivated from page one. Although part of a series it can be read as a standalone story. The marriage-of-convenience Hollywood romance theme intrigued me from the start and the storyline had me hooked. Both Abi and Finn enter the reality TV show, ‘Married Blind’, for very different reasons, but they both agree that the first time they meet they will get married, and stay married for three months. For Abi it means taking a break from her regularly scheduled life in which she’s working three jobs, and in which she has no time or the opportunity to meet ‘Mr Right’.
Meanwhile Finn’s reason is simple as his agent signs him up in order to rehab his image and salvage his career after his latest sexcapade. For Finn the role of a 24-hour loving husband on a reality TV show will be the hardest part he has to play. Abi definitely did not expect a reality TV husband to be ‘The One’, and Finn never thought that he would have the perfect woman chosen for him. But the problem with reality TV is that it’s difficult to know, what is for the show and what is for real. I loved Abi and Finn as they are both likeable and relatable in their own ways. Their chemistry really comes across in the narrative, and I was cheering them on hoping they would both get their HEA.

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A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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A Dowry of Snails and MudA Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an enjoyable and entertaining YA historical romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Set in Wales, and sixteen year old Rhia Caddell lives in a small village, with her father who is the Mayor, and she works the land as a farmer. With the village in debt to the king, Rhia’s father agrees to an arranged marriage between her and the Prince of Wales. However, Rhia is not impressed by the “oh-so-dainty Prince of Wales”, after all, “what good is a man who can’t out-lift her or bring a belligerent steer to the ground.” Rhia sets out to either whoo or intimidate, whichever works best, her new husband in order to get him to erase the village’s debt. Unfortunately, the Prince has been told to sway his wife into giving over the gold in order to earn his father’s approval. For Rhia, the outcome is either to lose the only life and home she’s ever known to the king, or give up the fragile prince who she’s tried hard not to fall in love with, but she has. I loved the likeable and relatable characters in this romantic comedy, and especially liked the dynamic between the Prince and Rhia. The storyline flowed well and the plot had plenty going on in it to keep me hooked. The descriptive narrative and added historical details made the characters and the setting come to life, making me feel immersed in the story.

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My Pearl Heart by J.N. Sheats – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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My Pearl HeartMy Pearl Heart by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an enjoyable and engaging stand alone romance, which kept me happily turning the pages. Jasmine Hayes runs her company, ‘Divine Events’ and organises events for the social elite. Meanwhile, James is a drunk who has a string of bad business decisions behind him, however, he also comes from the rich Conners family, who are the closest thing to royalty in New England. Two years ago he was told to sort his life out, and now James is about to marry Cadence, and then will be able to get the money he needs to start a new venture. The only problem is that when James meets Jasmine, his fiancé’s best friend and their wedding planner, he recognises her as the woman who he has not stopped thinking about since meeting her.

Jasmine, can’t believe the man that her best friend is marrying is the one who kissed her silly and swept her off her feet. What Jasmine does not know is that James and Cadence have a secret contract, which states they will have a mutually agreeable and quick divorce. I loved the main characters, as they are all likeable and relatable in their own ways. Their relationships come across as very realistic, and they all brought something different to the story. The chemistry between James and Jasmine really came through in the narrative, but I also loved the dynamics between all three main characters. This was a lighthearted and heartwarming romance which had a HEA.

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Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Prequel) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation #0.5)Night Hawke by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a short and steamy read, which is a prequel to a new series featuring the Hawke family. Billionaire heir attorney, Isaac Hawke has a two-night stand with a mystery redhead, the rules, “Two nights. No names. No expectations”. Having graduated law school, Isaac is now ready to join his family’s multi-billion-dollar business, but before he joins the Hawke empire he goes out to have one night to celebrate. Having met a beautiful woman at the bar, he takes ‘Jack’ back to his hotel room for the night, however, this turns into a weekend in bed with her. Having realised that a weekend is not enough with ‘Jack’, he says they should exchange real names in the morning, but when he wakes up ‘Jack’ is gone, and with no real name Isaac has no way of finding her.
Meanwhile, the women turns out to be running away from her parents and her life, she just needed one night of freedom but knew it was too dangerous to stay. The chemistry between Isaac and ‘Jack’ literally sizzles off the page and leads to some extremely steamy scenes. This was an enjoyable and engaging read, which had me hooked. As a prequel the story sets up the new series really well, as it left me definitely wanting more, and left so many questions unanswered, especially the identity of ‘Jack’.

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Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Byrd Nash – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #2)Delicious Death by Byrd Nash
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having been introduced to the medium Elinor Chalamet in the previous book in this series, I was looking forward to this second instalment and was not disappointed. Yet again I was transported back in time and immersed in another of Elinor’s mysteries, which kept me hooked. I felt like I was alongside Elinor as her holiday in Vouvant is ruined by a poisoner targeting a royal guest, leading to Elinor investigating. When an attempt on the kings life implicates Elinor’s favourite chef, she is keen to solve the case and prove him innocent. However, before she can return to the fun of the Winter Revels, she also saves a young society lady, and solves the problem of a widower who grieves too much, alongside using her skills, honed at the Morpheus Society, to help the police, whilst still hunting her father’s killer. Elinor is also annoyed by her love interest, the duke as he thinks he can solve the case of the poisoner before she can. This is an enjoyable and entertaining novella in this gaslamp fantasy, ghost mystery series, and I love that it has a strong female character in Elinor. She’s a likeable and relatable young women and her slow burn romance with the duke, offers an intriguing aside to her case solving. I look forward to book three, and continuing Elinor’s adventures.

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