Posts

Amber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg – Review By Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Amber Waves of GraceAmber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A heartwarming contemporary romance which had me hooked from start to finish. Corrie Lancaster moves back to the family farm following her father’s accident, just in time to help with the harvest. When the farm’s hired hand quits, and with a bumper wheat crop needing harvesting, Corrie has to accept the help of Aaron Tuttle, her ex boyfriend’s older brother. Corrie soon starts to lean on Aaron for emotional support, as she’s busy with the farm and harvesting, but also looking after her younger siblings and having to watch her parents marriage crumble. Unfortunately, Corrie learns that her ex boyfriend, Luke isn’t over her, and when he apologises for the past and attempts to rekindle their romance, she must decide between the two brothers.
When everything is finally under control, a stranger arrives at the farm asking for shelter, and an old nemesis returns looking for revenge. Corrie must decide which man she loves and who’s love will restore her faith. Corrie is a likeable and relatable heroine of this novel, who brings the story together. I love the connection between her and Aaron and enjoyed seeing how their relationship developed throughout the story, especially with the complication of Luke reappearing. The storyline had me gripped and I found this book hard to put down down. It took me on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading it, and I felt immersed in farm life, as the setting was brought to life by the descriptive narrative. A real page turner, which I definitely recommend reading.

View all my reviews

Murder Most Pemberley (Eliza Darcy Mysteries Book 1) by Jessica Berg – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Murder Most Pemberley (Eliza Darcy Mysteries Book 1)Murder Most Pemberley by Jessica Berg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this romantic cozy mystery with a Jane Austen/Pride and Prejudice twist. American Eliza Darcy travels to “Merry Old England” to attend a Darcy/Bennet family reunion. However, Eliza has an ulterior motive for going, and that is to resolve the estrangement between her father and uncle. Having arrived in England and explored the vast Pemberley estate of her ancestors, Eliza has to, “channel her inner Agatha Christie” when a dead body surfaces. Suddenly afternoon tea is replaced by murder and mayhem, especially as the body count starts rising. When clues to the murder begin to merge with her investigation into her family’s rift, she decides to let loose her “inner wannabe sleuth”, even though she promised to keep out of the official Scotland Yard investigation.
With the help from the handsome Heath Tilney, and her batty great-aunt, Eliza rushes to untangle the web of lives and secrets, and still finds time to flirt with her British heartthrob. Three murders later and the clues are running out as Eliza keeps investigating and realises that her own life is in danger. This was a great read, I loved the fact that all the characters were descendants of Elizabeth and Mr Darcy, and I loved all the Austen references dotted through the book. Eliza is a wonderful heroine and could just as easily have been in a Jane Austen novel herself. I felt immersed in the story and engaged with the characters. The storyline had me hooked and the plot twists kept me guessing, making it very hard to put this book down! I look forward to the next book in the series.

View all my reviews

Key to His Heart by Kristina Beck – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Key To His HeartKey To His Heart by Kristina Beck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance which had me hooked from start to finish. Although the story is inspired by true events it is set in a fictional world, and the storyline focuses on single Mum and artist Katrina and TJ, an ex-NFL player, turned chemistry teacher. Katrina has not had an easy life and has never really felt loved, she’s now divorced, and moves to a small town to start a new life, just her and her son Toby. When Kat meets TJ, sparks fly and she feels as though she has been led to him, especially as he appears to be the faceless man she conjured in her mind. As soon as TJ burst through a strangers door and came face to face with Kat and Toby, he’s in love, and he feels his soul telling him they were meant to all be together. Just as Kat tells TJ she’s in love with him, her perfect facade begins to crack and she’s scared that he will leave, like everyone else always has.
TJ doesn’t understand why the best night of his life has ended with the women he’s given his heart to kicking him out of her house. The mixed signals he’s getting are confusing him and he’s worried that she will break his heart. I was totally immersed in this story and in Kat and TJ’s romance, it was obvious they should be together from the moment they met. Their chemistry sizzled off the page and the connection between them really came across in the narrative. They are both such likeable and relatable characters, and I really felt for both of them. I was cheering them on, hoping they would get their well deserved HEA. I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading this wonderfully written romance. The storyline does involve some difficult topics, but these are addressed sensitively. A heartwarming and at times heartbreaking read, and one which stayed with me long after I had finished the last page, always a sign of a great book.

View all my reviews

Kiss a Thief by Marina Hanna – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

KISS A THIEFKISS A THIEF by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance, which kept me happily turning the pages. As soon as billionaire Dylan Knight and Mia Harris, who works at an art gallery meet, sparks fly and their sexual chemistry sizzles off the page. The couple are consumed by their mutual desire and feel as though they have met the person of their dreams. However, appearances can be deceptive and having fallen hard and fast, can one of them be using the other as a pawn in their plans. Can one of them really be a, Liar, Con-Artist, Swindler, even a thief? This is a standalone steamy romance with added drama, suspense and plenty of emotional angst. I loved Dylan and Mia and their chemistry really came across in the narrative. Both of them were likeable and relatable characters, who were well developed and I found myself wanting them to get their HEA. The storyline flowed well and the plot twists kept me hooked, thankfully there was no cliffhanger ending! A great read and I would definitely recommend this novel.

View all my reviews

Antipodes (Antipodes Book 1) by T.S. Simons – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

AntipodesAntipodes by T S Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A gripping dystopian romance, set in Australia in the aftermath of a global outbreak which threatens to destroy the planet. Cam Mackintosh, is one of a select group of highly skilled young people who have been selected by Australian scientists, to establish a sustainable island community. This community will be built on the modern values of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Once Cam overcomes his loneliness and anxiety at his strange new life, he starts to make friends and finds a sense of belonging. Just as Cam is building his new life with partner Freja, his dreams are shattered when she goes missing.
He must go on a journey of discovery, in the hopes of finding her. Cam comes across other communities like his own and finds both friendship and acceptance within them. However, he is forced to make a decision which will change everything. This was a real page turner with an intriguing storyline which had me hooked from start to finish. The characters are likeable and relatable which made me feel engaged with them, especially Cam, who brings the story together. The setting is brought to life by the authors descriptive narrative and I felt immersed in the dystopian world that Cam finds himself in. An enjoyable and entertaining read, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

View all my reviews

This Time Around by Jane Suen – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

This Time AroundThis Time Around by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A heartwarmingly sweet romance which had me happily turning the pages. Katie returns to her hometown to attend a friend’s wedding but does not have a date, and so the bride sets her up with her cousin. Katie is surprised when she comes face to face with her date, to discover it’s her ex boyfriend, Chase. Chase only agreed to the date for his cousin, the last thing he wanted was to see the girl who had broken his heart ten years earlier when she left for the big city. Things have certainly changed for Chase over the years, having also left his hometown, he’s now returned and living there whilst bringing up his orphaned nephew.
Meanwhile, Katie is happy to be home and to spend time with family but she can’t help but think how her life, and her job, which had so much potential hasn’t really turned out how she had imagined. Katie and Chase can not deny that their chemistry is still there, but even if they can get over the past, Katie has to return to her job in the city and Chase’s life is in their hometown with his nephew, Timmy. I loved Katie and Chase, they were both likeable and relatable characters who I felt instantly engaged with. The small town setting really came alive through the descriptive narrative, and I felt immersed in small town living. I was cheering the couple on, hoping they would both get their HEA. This was an enjoyable read which I would recommend.

View all my reviews

The Letter Carrier by L.C. Lewis – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

The Letter CarrierThe Letter Carrier by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a gripping historical novel based on the real life experiences of Michelle Naget and her family. I found this story to be a real page turner, which at times was heartwarming and at others heartbreaking. An inspirational story about an amazingly brave young women, I found this book hard to put down. A young Michelle and her family are fleeing to safety from the Germans who have marched across Europe and have now reached France, when they are captured by the Nazis. The Naget family are sent back to their house in the village of Braquis, to discover their home has been commandeered, and that they must serve the enemy. For four years the family live with the Nazis under their roof and have to endure not only this, but also their neighbours questioning their loyalty. Michelle and her family are very religious but the daily hardships test their faith, however, the family’s motto is , “We do what must be done,” and they do, by believing in God, each other and hope.
A young rebel French girl passes letters to Michelle and Légère promises that she will be free again when the Allies arrive. As time goes on the Nazis torment increases and the Naget family’s life and death is completely in their enemies control. Michelle is determined to do whatever she can to protect her family, even dressing as a boy and being a letter carrier. Told from Michelle’s point of view this is an engaging read and I felt completely immersed in the story. The setting came vividly and claustrophobically to life from the authors descriptive narrative. The characters are all realistic and well defined, Michelle is a very likeable and relatable young women. The author has obviously done her research, and the added historical details made me feel as though I had been transported back, during WWII. I literally could not put this book down, and the story and the characters stayed with me long after I had finished the book. A must read, which I definitely recommend.

View all my reviews

Taylor’s Law by Jennifer Raines – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Taylor's LawTaylor’s Law by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an enjoyable and engaging read, which had me hooked from start to finish. Following the death of her sister, Ella Anderson is raising her niece, Tessa as requested, and although she is struggling money wise she’s happy bringing up her adored niece. So when she receives a summons from a legal Goliath, on behalf of a wealthy stranger who is claiming paternity and, potentially wants custody of Tessa, she is shocked. Lawyer Jake Taylor, is looking after his aunt and uncles interests, having received a letter from a women claiming that his cousin has a daughter, Tessa.
When Ella, the child’s aunt turns up in his office Jake thinks the case is suspicious. Although Jake and Ella have divided loyalties, neither can deny the growing attraction between them. However, the case is full of secrets and lies, and Ella is not sure that she can trust Jake to make the right decision regarding her having custody of Tessa. This was a heartwarming romance full of drama, which took me on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading it. The storyline is gripping and had me happily turning the pages. The characters and the setting are all brought to life by the descriptive narrative, which made me feel immersed in the story. I definitely recommend this novel.

View all my reviews

The Secret Cure: A Gripping Psychological Thriller with a Twist by JD Spero – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

The Secret CureThe Secret Cure by J.D. Spero
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was hooked from page one by this gripping psychological thriller, which was full of drama and suspense. Rosalie Giordano was in the prime of her life, happily married to her ‘fairy tale hero’, Vincent for ten blissful years, and the couple were planning to have a family. Her life changes when Rosalie is diagnosed with a mysterious virus, which has left her temporarily paralysed. As her condition continues for months, Rosalie discovers that her husband, Vin is having an affair. Her homecare nurse Cate, cares for her everyday and with her help Rosalie regains full mobility. However, she keeps her progress secret from Vin, and as her health improves she uncovers the extent of his betrayal, learning that he is not who he seems.
As her need for vengeance grows, she decides that their overseas anniversary trip is the perfect occasion for her to get her revenge. Having arrived at their upmarket Sicilian resort, Rosalie learns that she is not the only one with a score to settle with her husband, and she won’t be the only one with blood on her hands. This is a real page turner, and I literally could not put this book down. The characters are all so well defined that I felt as though I knew them. Both the characters and the settings came alive through the descriptive narrative. I liked how each of the main characters point of view was told, making me feel engaged with each of them. The storyline flowed well, and the sense of unease built chapter by chapter, and the plot twists kept me guessing as to the ending. I definitely recommend this novel.

View all my reviews

Love in the Roses (Love Through the Ages Book 1) by TL Clark – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Love in the RosesLove in the Roses by T.L. Clark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging historical romance, set during the Wars of the Roses. The storyline revolves around, Isabel a knight’s daughter, living in 1484 and Sir William, the man she has never met but is due to marry. Isabel is shocked by her arranged marriage to Sir William, especially as he is on the side of the House of Lancaster, and her family have always supported the House of York. As a dutiful daughter in the 15th century, Isabel has no say in who she will marry, even if she ends up married to the enemy. Isabel must be a good wife, but she also needs to learn how to survive during a time when betrayal and ruin are a constant threat.
The perilous Medieval England is brought vividly to life by both the descriptive narrative and the added historical details. Isabel is a very likeable and relatable main character, and I enjoyed seeing how her relationship with Sir William developed throughout the story. The clever use of old English dialogue added to the sense of the era, and made me feel immersed in Isabel’s world. The author has obviously done a lot of research into Medieval England which came across in the writing. The authors note at the beginning really helped to set the scene, and explained the background to the Wars of the Roses, and the glossary was very useful. I was hooked from start to finish with this intriguing story about love battling against all odds.

View all my reviews

One Unexpected Gift (Band of Sisters) by Marianne Rice – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

One Unexpected Gift (Band of Sisters)One Unexpected Gift by Marianne Rice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A heartwarming contemporary military romance which I thoroughly enjoyed. Needing the support of her best friends, Army Medic Skylar heads to Maine to think about her future. Her hook-up with a sexy stranger, in his office and in the supply closet, brought up some major consequences. Nick Pierce’s life had been boring since receiving some devastating news, which resulting in him having to stop his crazy, wild adventures. So when a gorgeous, funny, witty redhead walked into his bar he was instantly captivated, so much so he does not want to see her leave. Only problem is, Skylar does not seem interested in him, but this only makes him want her more. Meanwhile, Skylar is finding Nick pretty hard to resist, especially when he makes her feel protected and desired. But, she’s afraid to get to involved as her life and career are in Virginia with the Army. I loved Nick and Skylar and wanted them to get their HEA. The chemistry between them really came across in the narrative, and I liked how their relationship developed throughout the story. An entertaining and engaging read, which can be read either as a standalone story or as part of the series.

View all my reviews

Let It Be Love (A Mustang Prairie Romance Book 5) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Let It Be Love (A Mustang Prairie Romance)Let It Be Love by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance, which kept me happily turning the pages. Pop starlet Kiki Ramirez and ‘civilian’, small town mayor Eric didn’t plan to fall in love, but they did. However, their relationship is being tested by Kiki’s fame, her crazy agent, the paparazzi, and the Hollywood machine. I loved Kiki and Eric and was cheering them on, hoping they would get their HEA. The characters were well defined and I felt engaged with them and their circumstances. The chemistry between the couple really came across in the story. The storyline flowed well and I found myself immersed in the story. This was a heartwarming romance which I definitely recommend.

View all my reviews

Murder in the Lightning Room by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Murder in the Lightning RoomMurder in the Lightning Room by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this YA historical mystery novel, which had me hooked from start to finish. Set in 1899, in Colorado Springs, seventeen year old Cora Croft is in her final year at Palmer High School. She finds herself uncovering a mystery involving Nikola Tesla and his secret projects. Tesla is ready to pack up his secret lab and return to New York after the mysterious death of his assistant, and the theft of some important documents. However, when Cora offers to help him uncover who is behind these events, in order for Tesla to stay and complete his work he agrees.
Cora along with friends Harrison and Marshall work together to unravel the mystery, and discover secrets along the way. Cora has to deal with time, the elements and social constraints, and then she discovers that she is in danger. This was a fast paced story with an exciting storyline and plenty of plot twists, which kept me happily turning the pages. I loved the characters, especially the likeable and relatable Cora, and I felt that I was alongside her uncovering the clues. The historical details really brought the era to life along with the real life Tesla.

View all my reviews

Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Paige and the Reluctant ArtistPaige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance which had me happily turning the pages. Paige Liston, is a curator at a posh uptown art gallery, and she believes she’s found the next ‘great phenom painter’. However, the artist, Mark Richards lives in Helena, Montana, meaning she will have to leave behind her ultra modern apartment in Manhattan, in order to convince Mark to create pieces for her gallery. Mark is the owner of Carmel Ranch and he rescues horses, and so is not immediately interested in painting for the gallery, until Paige makes him an offer he can’t refuse.
Although the couple have instant chemistry it’s not until they are spending more time together on the Ranch that their relationship develops, but having to navigate life and their careers it’s not guaranteed they will get a HEA. This was a heartwarming romance with two very likeable and relatable main characters in Paige and Mark. Their instant attraction came across in the narrative, and I liked how their relationship developed throughout the story. The setting came alive through the descriptive narrative and I felt immersed in life on the Montana Ranch.

View all my reviews

Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder Book 2) by CJ Cartwright – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder #2)Body Checked by C.J. Cartwright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and entertaining contemporary sports romance, with a frenemies to lovers theme. Professional hockey player and self proclaimed bachelor for life, Bridger McKelty is known as a player both on and off the ice, and he’s happy with both his lifestyle and his reputation. Tia Ferris is determined not to get involved with another unreliable playboy, but she’s not going to turn down a ‘no strings’ attached wild weekend with the sexy Bridger when the opportunity comes up. Both Tia and Bridger were very clear about the rules, one weekend, no strings, and no feelings allowed. The only problem is Bridger can’t stop thinking about Tia, and he realises his fling has turned into an obsession.
Whilst Bridger has to decide how far he’s willing to go to get what he wants, Tia is trying hard to stick to their rules, as she struggles with her trust issues. I happily read this as a standalone story, however the characters are recurring, and I’m now intrigued to read the previous book in the series. I loved Bridger and Tia and their battle of wills, as they fought both their feelings and each other. I loved the witty banter between them, and how their relationship developed from instant attraction to something deeper. The chemistry between them sizzled off the page and led to some steamy scenes. I felt immersed in the world of the Astoria Bay Thunder hockey team and I found the story entertaining and engaging, and I look forward to future books in this series.

View all my reviews

Enchanted in Time by Nikki Lynn Barrett – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Enchanted in TimeEnchanted in Time by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This wonderfully written novel had me hooked from page one and I felt completely immersed in the storyline. Roxanne Ferris is recovering from a personal tragedy when she decides to take a summer job as a caregiver to the bestselling author Claudette Grayson. The ailing author wants to spend the time she has left in the house she’s so fond of. The pair bond over Claudette’s enchanting stories of fictional characters, and it gives Roxanne the perfect escape from her haunting memories. However, when these characters start to feel so real that Roxanne not only sees one of the fictitious characters in the house, but actually speaks with him, she starts to question her sanity.
As Roxanne tries to discover who the mysterious stranger is, the summer could either bring her peace and closure or destroy the remains of both women’s tormented minds. The descriptive narrative really brought the atmospheric and at times claustrophobic feeling of the house to life. The characters were intriguing and I felt engaged with both Roxanne and Claudette, and I really felt for both of them due to the tragedies they had faced. The storyline flowed well and had plenty of plot twists to keep me guessing as to the outcome of the story. I found this to be a gripping read and one which I had trouble putting down.

View all my reviews

On Viking Seas (The Forerunner Saga Series Book 3) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

On Viking Seas (Forerunner Series)On Viking Seas by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The epic adventures of the Agneson clan continues in this third book in the series, which like the previous books I thoroughly enjoyed. The historical fantasy storyline had me gripped from page one, and I liked the mix of real historical events with authentic legends, which together makes an epic fantasy story. The descriptive narrative and added historical details bring both the Viking era of circa 880, and the setting vividly to life, which made me feel immersed in the story. This epic adventure takes the reader from the Cornish pit mines to the back alleys of Jorvik, then to the Mercian Court and beyond to the North Sea, and across Midgard and the 9 realms. As usual I felt engaged with the main characters and our hero Thorfinn, who is facing supernatural revenge as he’s still trying to lift a Jarl’s curse.
The Agneson family has been scattered and they each face their own challenges, against, “Scheming aldermen, duplicitous monks, slave drivers, dark elves, trolls, ghosts, shapeshifting witches, the legendary Norse Wild Hunt, and a dragon”. Cub, has been enslaved in the Devonshire tin mines, Sorven is after retribution in Jorvik, and Kara is fighting an arranged Saxon marriage, whilst Karl and his crew are castaway on a mythic floating island. As each of the intriguing main characters tackle their challenges, the Forerunner is trying to find his scattered family to help them with their trials. I loved the added pet dragon for Finn, which brings humour to the story. It can be difficult at times to keep track of all the characters, but having been introduced to them in the previous books they have started to feel like old friends. This is a fast paced, entertaining read with many plot twists which kept me hooked, and I look forward to the next book in the series.

View all my reviews

Shake Down (First Coast Thriller Book 1) by Armand Rosamilia – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Shake Down (First Coast Thriller Series)Shake Down by Armand Rosamilia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this gripping crime thriller, which had me hooked from start to finish. The main character, Clayton Conway is an ex-cop who has made some mistakes and is now working at a repo company. Clayton is concentrating on raising his daughter and keeping friendly with her mother, his ex-wife. He’s renting a small apartment over a bar in Jacksonville Beach, and is happy if he makes enough money to pay his rent. Thinking he had left his dangerous life behind him, along with being a cop, Clayton gets mixed up with the Orenato Cartel, when one of their speedboats is repossessed.
Clayton realises that it’s not just him who’s in danger but also his family and friends, and he’s determined to protect them, as long as his own weaknesses don’t get the better of him, again. Full of drama and suspense this was an entertaining and engaging read, with a great main character in Clayton, who’s both likeable and relatable, whilst also being realistic. I found it hard to put this book down once I had started it and I am now looking forward to the next book in the series.

View all my reviews

Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an enjoyable and engaging western style, clean romance, which kept me happily turning the pages. Bella Orstwell, is an English aristocrat who helped get her abusive Russian mafia boyfriend arrested, but is now in hiding whilst awaiting the trial. Bella has to pretend to be both the housekeeper to the Delaney Brothers and a nanny to their younger sister. Although all three of the brothers are attractive, it’s cowboy, Levi that catches her eye, however, it’s also ex-Navy SEAL Levi who is in charge of protecting her. Levi is busy enough helping his brothers run the ranch and raising his little sister, without having to take on a ‘babysitting gig’.
He definitely wasn’t expecting Bella who is both annoying and lovely at the same time, and all he can think about is kissing her, when he’s not ordering her around, for her safety. Meanwhile, Bella is determined not to follow all of Levi’s many orders, but although she has sworn off men, there is something about wounded hero Levi which makes her want to heal him. Soon the couple have more dangerous things to deal with as any HEA can only happen if Levi can keep Bella alive when her past comes looking for her. The main characters are all likeable and relatable, and the chemistry between Levi and Bella came across in the narrative and in their banter. I was hooked from start to finish and I felt immersed in the storyline, which was a good mix of, drama, suspense and romance.

View all my reviews

Someone Exactly Like Me (Wounded Hearts Series Book 1) by Debbie Cromack – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Someone Exactly Like Me (Wounded Hearts, #1)Someone Exactly Like Me by Debbie Cromack
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an entertaining and enjoyable contemporary romance, with a friends to lovers theme and a slow burn romance between two soul mates. The main characters are, Destiny a romance author with writers block and Niccolo a sexy Italian film star who has just found fame. Niccolo offers Destiny a deal, one which she probably should not have agreed to, but she did, and now she’s finding that she’s spending a lot of time with Niccolo, alone, under the same roof. Although Destiny is thinking of ways she can get out of the deal, she’s also enjoying spending time with the film star, and heart throb, but given his reputation she’s wary. However, the couple can not deny their instant chemistry, undeniable attraction and growing connection. This was a heartwarming romance between two very likeable and relatable characters who were so well defined I felt as though I knew them. I felt engaged with the couple and wanted them to get their HEA. I was immersed in the storyline which flowed well, and kept me happily turning the pages. It was a great read and gave me a real feel good factor.

View all my reviews

Isabella Bride of Ohio: American Mail Order Bride by Debra Parmley – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Isabella Bride of Ohio: American Mail-Order Brides SeriesIsabella Bride of Ohio: American Mail-Order Brides Series by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging historical romance, which had me hooked from start to finish. Although becoming a mail-order bride can be a dangerous thing for a woman to do, it’s the only option left for Isabella. Who having arrived in America from Sweden, suffers the death of her parents and then looses her job when the factory burns down. Isabella starts to communicate by letter with Donald Jenks, a wealthy man from Yellow Springs Ohio who wants a wife. Donald describes Isabella’s dream home, and he appears to be a perfect husband for her. However, she has to reach Ohio safely before she can even meet Donald, and with white slavers abducting females from the train this puts her in danger. On the train she meets ‘Tom’, a Pinkerton agent, who is on the case of the disappearing women, and he’s Isabella’s only hope when she’s selected to be the next victim.
Even if Isabella is saved by Tom, it’s not guaranteed that she will get her HEA with Donald, as Isabella starts to wonder why such a successful and handsome businessman would need a mail-order bride. After all, he could have had his pick of the young ladies near Yellow Springs. This is a romance with plenty of drama and suspense, and the plot had many twists in it that kept me both gripped and guessing as to Isabella’s outcome. The descriptive narrative and added historical details brought both the setting and era vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the storyline. The characters were well described and I felt engaged with Isabella and her plight, and was hoping that she would get her HEA. An entertaining read and one which I definitely recommend.

View all my reviews

Saved by Love (Bellevue Bullies Book 7) by Toni Aleo – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Saved by Love (Bellevue Bullies #7)Saved by Love by Toni Aleo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this contemporary sports romance, which was the first book I’ve read by this author, but it definitely will not be the last! I was completely hooked from page one and felt so immersed in the story that I carried on reading it late into the night. The storyline focuses on, Evan Adler who is medically retired from the NHL, and Bellevue’s star gymnast Callie Pearce. Evan feels he retired before he could live up to the ‘Adler Legacy’, but that he had to for the sake of his mental health. Having returned to his hometown, he gets a position at the University of Bellevue as the athletic trainer for the women’s gymnastics team. This is where he first meets Callie, and their connection is immediate from the moment Evan tapes Callie’s ankle.
Callie grew up with only her sister for support, which has made her be more caring to others, and so when she discovers that Evan is suffering, she’s even more determined to get to know him. The storyline flows well making this an easy read, but with plenty going on plot wise to keep me happily turning the pages. Evan and Callie are great main characters, realistic, relatable and likeable and I felt engaged with both of them. I liked how their relationship developed throughout the book, and I felt that Evan’s mental health problems were dealt with sensitively and realistically. Although this is part of a series, I happily read it as a standalone story, however, I am now keen to read the previous stories. An enjoyable and engaging read, and one which I definitely recommend.

View all my reviews

The Colors of Friendship (The Colors Trilogy Book 1) by K.R. Raye – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

The Colors of Friendship (Colors Trilogy, #1)The Colors of Friendship by K.R. Raye
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an enjoyable and engaging novel about true friendship and the obstacles that can get in the way of that friendship. Melody, Imani, and Lance are three college friends, who are either searching for true love, NFL fame or a successful engineering career. Melody is the naive romantic one, who’s aim is to find true love whilst at college, just like her parents did, but is she willing to sacrifice her soul to find it. Imani, is at college to gain a chemical engineering degree and is aiming for good grades, but will she miss out on the friendship that could offer her more. Lance is serious about his football and protecting his girls, and his protection is needed when a threat appears and tests more than their friendship.
When Melody meets Kevin, she thinks she’s found true love, but will her quest for love endanger not only her life but that of her friends. I liked all three of the main characters, who are very likeable and relatable, and the dynamic between the friends rings true, with the dialogue between them feeling very natural. I liked how the book is written with all three of them having a voice and telling the story from their own points of view. I thought the prologue gave away a bit too much of the storyline, which took away some of the suspense for me, but it didn’t stop me from happily turning the pages. The storyline deals with some difficult themes, but does so sensitively. I felt immersed in the friends world and I look forward to the next two books in this trilogy.

View all my reviews

The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

The Lie That BindsThe Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An entertaining YA contemporary romance, which had me hooked from start to finish. Nathan, is a liar, he lies to protect himself, because he has a secret, and by lying he gets to keep his secret. One which he believes will destroy everything in his life if it were to be discovered. Nathan is also one of the popular guys at school, and together they terrorise the unpopular kids. When new girl Holly joins the school she becomes Nathan’s unwilling lab partner, she hates him because of who he’s become. However, only Nathan knows that he’s only bullying others to keep anyone getting too close to him and discovering his secret.
Then Holly does find out Nathan’s secret, and he’s determined to do whatever he has to in order to keep her quiet, but he soon learns that the most damaging lie is the one he’s been telling himself. This is an intriguing story, set in a high school and has all the angst you would expect amongst teenagers, the setting and characters are brought to life through the descriptive narrative, and I felt as though I was back at school! The storyline has an added twist to it with Nathan’s lie, and the consequences of the choices he makes to keep it hidden, especially in terms of his relationship with Holly. This was an enjoyable and engaging different take on first love and it took me on a rollercoaster of emotions whilst I was reading it.

View all my reviews

Romance under Aquarius (Stargazing Series Book 1) by Danielle Jacks – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Romance Under AquariusRomance Under Aquarius by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this paranormal romance which was an intriguing mix of romance, drama, adventure and Greek mythology and myths, such as Atlantis, all of which had me hooked. The story is told from multiple points of view, which made me feel engaged with each of the main characters. Kasper, is on a quest to travel the world and swim to the deepest depths, as he has been told that in Greek mythology, there is a water healer under the zodiac sign of Aquarius, who he hopes can heal his dying brother. Maris, has found out her fiancé, the man her father wants her to marry, is cheating on her, and is now unsure whether to go against her father. Maris knows that fighting for her opinion to be heard will not change anything, but maybe running away will.
Meanwhile, her best friend Pasha is living with the knowledge that the man she loves is intended for her friend. She has to decide whether to sacrifice her own happiness for theirs, knowing that a future of following rules will make her miserable. Then there is Ryn, in line to be king, but only if he marries someone he doesn’t love gives up the one he does. He has to decide if making it work is worthwhile, especially as the princess he’s to marry seems to be destined for more than he can offer her, but maybe he could help her. This is an immersive read, with the wonderfully descriptive narrative bringing the setting and the characters vividly to life. It’s an original storyline which flows well and had me gripped from start to finish. An enjoyable and entertaining read, which I definitely recommend.

View all my reviews

Distant Memories (Nurse Morgan Series Book 2) by Kate MacInnis – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Distant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book TwoDistant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book Two by Kate MacInnis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having been introduced to Emergency Room nurse Morgan Cutler, in book one in this series, I was looking forward to ‘catching up’ with her, and I was not disappointed. I thoroughly enjoyed this lighthearted paranormal romance, which kept me entertained and happily turning the pages. Morgan has now come to terms with her new psychic abilities and has even made peace with the ghosts in her little house on Melody Lane. Her love life is also going well with the, “Mr. Too Good to Be True” MD Caleb, but he does seem to be moving a little too fast and Morgan knows he has a reputation as a heartbreaker. However, when seductress, Esmeralda Camarillo Castillo, visits from the other side and sets her sights on Caleb, Morgan is not willing to let her get her hands on him. Morgan is also having to deal with all the ghosts which are literally everywhere, and especially those that are up to no good.

As Morgan tries to keep her paranormal life and her ‘normal’ life in order, her worries cause her to have insomnia, which becomes dangerous when she’s the nurse on-call. Morgan is determined that those from the afterlife will not destroy her relationship, career, life or the hospital, and she will do it with her sense of humour intact! The storyline flows well and the plot had me hooked from start to finish. Morgan is a great main character who brings the story together. This is a fun read, with plenty of laughs but also a lot of heart, and it left me with a feel good feeling.

View all my reviews

One in A Billion (Pierce Brothers Book 3) by Belinda Williams – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

One In A Billion (Pierce Brothers, #3)One In A Billion by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this romantic comedy, which is book three in the series featuring the naughty but nice Pierce Brothers. This was a lighthearted, fun read and I fell in love with the very likeable and relatable characters. Victoria Verity is on a deadline, she needs to get an exclusive interview with Australia’s newest tech billionaire in order to secure her journalism career. The only problem is, Seth Pierce hates people making a big deal of him being a billionaire and is notoriously private. Seth decides to appoint a media adviser, but the perfect candidate, Victoria is not actually there for the job.
However, Seth is determined to make Victoria an offer she can’t refuse, and she is willing to do anything to get her story. Neither Seth or Victoria had imagined mixing business and pleasure, but Victoria soon learns that billionaires don’t give up easily. The story had the right mix of laugh out loud moments, emotional scenes and of course romance. The wonderfully written storyline flowed well which made this an easy read, and the authors descriptive narrative brought both the characters and the setting to life. I was hooked from page one and could not put this book down.

View all my reviews

Love is Worth Fighting for (The Meraki Series Book 3) by Effie Kammenou – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Love is Worth Fighting forLove is Worth Fighting for by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was looking forward to reading this novel having enjoyed the previous books in the series, and I thoroughly enjoyed this one as well. As usual I was fully immersed in the novel, thanks to the wonderfully written storyline and likeable and realistic characters. This is Krystina and frenemy from childhood, Loukas’s story, and I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading it. The descriptive narrative brought the settings vividly to life and I felt engaged with the characters, making this a real page turner of a novel, and one which I could not put down. Krystina wants to travel to beautiful locations, promote her blog, and hopefully achieve Insta fame, but unfortunately with Loukas in tow she feels like she can’t breathe.
However, when unforeseen circumstances occur, resulting in Krystina having to face challenging situations, it’s Loukas that helps her get through it. The mystery element of the plot had me intrigued, as Krystina‘s grandfather is missing, but her grandmother believes he will return one day. Krystina becomes determined to find him and bring him home to her grandmother, but her quest will test everything she knows. This was a heartwarming and at times heartbreaking story, which kept me happily turning the pages. Will Krystina learn that ‘love is worth fighting for’, I definitely recommend that you pick up this book to find out!

View all my reviews

Pilot Who Knows the Water (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 6) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

Pilot Who Knows the Waters (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 6)Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have read and enjoyed each book in this series, and was looking forward to this instalment, and I was definitely not disappointed. The adventures of Egyptian diplomat Hani continued, and as usual I was hooked from page one. I would personally recommend reading the books in order, so that you know Hani’s backstory. In book six, Hani has to secretly obtain a Hittite bridegroom for Queen Meryet-amen, but Ay and the faction behind Prince Tut-ankh-aten are opposed, and willing to turn to violence. The death of an artisan appears to be connected to Ay, and his determination to see his grandson on the throne. When another death brings Egypt to the brink of war Hani’s diplomatic skills are thoroughly tested.
As usual the wonderfully written storyline had me gripped and the plot twists kept me guessing. The descriptive narrative and historical details brought the setting and era vividly to life, and I felt immersed in Hani’s world. After six books I feel like Hani is an old friend, and I enjoyed being with him working out one last mystery, as sadly this is the final book in ‘The Lord Hani Mysteries’ series. I will miss Hani, he’s a great character and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the whole series, as each book has been a real page turner. This was an enjoyable and engaging read, which kept me happily turning the pages well into the night!

View all my reviews

The Cave of Rúin Ársa (The Cross of Ciaran Book 3) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Jennifer Gordon

/0 Comments/in /by

The Cave of Ruin ArsaThe Cave of Ruin Arsa by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series I was looking forward to reading this one, and I was not disappointed. I would recommend reading them in order as the storyline, a historical romance with a paranormal twist does continue throughout each novel. This was another wonderfully written and heartwarming story, which had me hooked from start to finish. Ciarán Donnelly is ready to leave his past behind and concentrate on his new life, however, he is suffering from horrible dreams. These dreams seem to be telling him that the long dead priest, Ruadhán, who had entombed him fifteen hundred years before, is now threatening to kidnap his unborn twins, but is he interpreting the dreams correctly.
The dreams and his anxiety about them are putting stress on his new marriage to Caitlin, who believes the dreams come from Ciarán’s own insecurities over becoming a father. After all, the chances of Ruadhán suffering the same fate as Ciarán and having survived over fifteen centuries is very low. But when his brother Aodhán discovers an empty tomb in the Hills of ár Sinsear that appear to have been occupied, it looks like Ruadhán could have survived after all, but if so is he a risk to Ciarán‘s family. The descriptive narrative and the historical details bring both the settings and the era vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the story. The characters are likeable and so well defined that after three books I now feel like they are old friends. An enjoyable and engaging read which is a real page turner and one which left me thinking about it long after I had read the last page.

View all my reviews