Jennifer Gordon – Page 2 – Itsy Bitsy Book Bits

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A Second Chance (Powder River Pack Book 1) by Brooke May – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 31, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

A Second Chance by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging second chance romance with a paranormal twist, which kept me happily turning the pages. Werewolf, Derek Sumerland is a member of the ‘Powder River Pack’ and met his fated mate at an early age, but then tragedy struck. He now just about gets through each day, regretting the fact that he didn’t fight for her or go after her. Meanwhile, Annabelle Daniels left her past behind her but still has a broken heart. When her estranged father is dying Annabelle reluctantly returns to Fetterman, Wyoming. She had not planned on seeing Derek but when she does, she finds that instead of the young man she loved, he is now an angry man, although still handsome. As fated mates neither of them can deny their connection, but Annabelle now has a life elsewhere and one which she has worked hard to achieve. The pair must decide if they can have a second chance together. The descriptive narrative brought the setting vividly to life making me feel immersed in the ‘Powder River Pack’s’ world. I loved the likeable and relatable characters, and I found the chemistry between Annabelle and Derek really came across in the narrative. I look forward to future books in this new series.

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Resisting Nature (Powder River Pack Series) by Brooke May – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 31, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Resisting Nature by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and exciting paranormal romance, featuring wolf shifters and fated mates, which had me hooked from start to finish. This is the fourth book featuring the werewolves of the ‘Powder River Pack’, but it can be read as a standalone story. Alexa Hart is starting over in a new town far away from the troubles of her past and has a promising new career to focus on. She’s not looking for a relationship but then she meets Miles and just can’t deny their instant connection. Although shifter Miles Fischer is known as a lady’s man, as soon as he meets Alexa, he knows she’s, his mate. However, finding out that Miles is a shifter is too much for Alexa after her last relationship and she pushes him away. Miles is prepared to fight for her and when the mysteries from her past are discovered he’s willing to fight that too. Once again, I was immersed in the world of the ‘Powder River Pack’ as the descriptive narrative brings both the setting and the characters vividly to life. The chemistry between Miles and Alexa sizzled off the page, and I love a fated mate romance!

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Fade into the Night (Philly Heat Series) by Becky Flade – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 24, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Fade Into the Night by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve enjoyed the previous books in this enjoyable and engaging series and once again I was hooked throughout this latest story. In this fast paced storyline, FBI Special Agent Noah Danes’ is investigating ‘The Beltway Romeo’. Whilst in Philadelphia Noah meets up with an old friend, Sadie Potter who’s a forensic facial reconstructionist. The pair last saw each other four years ago at the sentencing of her mothers murderer. Noah and Sadie are surprised by their newfound feelings for each other, but as their relationship develops Sadie is attacked by ‘The Beltway Romeo’. For Noah this is now personal and he’s determined to catch the culprit and protect Sadie. However, Noah himself becomes the focus of his fellow profilers and fears his secrets are about to be discovered.
Meanwhile, in the aftermath of her attack Sadie is scarred, depressed and afraid and lashes out at those closest to her, including Noah. Sadie is still in danger especially when ‘Romeo’ makes it clear that he’s not forgotten her, the victim that got away. This romantic suspense was a real page turner and it kept me happily turning the pages. The descriptive narrative brings the characters and the setting vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the storyline. Whilst the plot twists kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story, and I found the chemistry between Noah and Sadie came across in the narrative. I look forward to future books in this series!

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Group Hug by Ariella Talix – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 23, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Group Hug by Ariella Talix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging MMF romance which kept me happily turning the pages. When Weston must rent out rooms in his house, he was not expecting to have an instant connection to not one but two of the applicants. Callum is just starting out in his culinary career having got his dream job as a chef. He goes along to view a room and meets his roommates, Weston and Petra. He knows they will be a distraction and that he will need to stay focused on his career. Meanwhile, Petra has just left a lousy relationship and so her and her dog are looking for a place to live. However, she’s definitely not looking for another relationship, let alone one with two men. This is a heartwarming story, featuring three extremely likeable and relatable main characters, who I felt instantly engaged with. The chemistry between Weston, Callum and Petra sizzles off the page, and leads to some very steamy scenes and sexy fun between the three of them. The storyline has some emotional twists and turns which kept me hooked and I love that the dogs also became characters themselves!

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The Rocklyns Collection: Books 1-7 (The Rocklyns Series) by Alicia Street – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 21, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

The Rocklyns Collection: Contemporary Romance Boxed Set by Alicia Street
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging collection of contemporary romance novels all in one boxed set, making it easy to ‘binge read’ the whole series. Each novel is a standalone story focusing on different members of the Rocklyn family, however the characters do overlap. The Rocklyn winery, set up by Matt Rocklyn Sr. is part of the burgeoning “Napa of the East Coast”, set on Long Island’s North Fork. The author does a wonderful job of bringing this setting to life through the descriptive narrative. The vineyard is the home of a new generation of Rocklyn’s, a big family of brothers and sisters as well as cousins.

Each member faces challenges and goes on a journey to find love. I was hooked from book one and fell in love with the Rocklyn family, all the characters are likeable and relatable. I was captivated by each one of the heartwarming storylines, which included, forbidden love, secret identities, secret babies, second chances at love, and opposites attract relationships. The chemistry between each main couple sizzled off the page and led to some rather steamy scenes. I loved how each relationship was different and developed throughout the story. Having read and enjoyed all seven stories I can guarantee that once you start reading you won’t be able to stop!

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The Human Mating Site, Box Set 1 (The Human Mating Site Series) by B.L. Wilde – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 19, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

The Human Mating Site Box Set 1 : A Steamy, Dating Humour Novella’s 1-4 by B.L. Wilde
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a box set of four enjoyable novellas following Bella’s dating journey. Avid steamy romance reader Bella is looking for Mr Right, or at least Mr Right Now. Having split from her husband (Mr Wimp) of twelve years, Bella finds herself back on the dating scene. Bella realises how much of herself she lost whilst in her relationship with Mr Wimp, and the once sunny, happy Bella wants her confidence back. The ‘Human Mating Site’ lets her experience online dating, meet some men, have fun, (and sexy fun) and regain her confidence. Bella is also keen to act out some of the spicy scenes she has read about! This is a fun, funny, engaging set of novellas with an extremely likeable and relatable main character in Bella. Each novella is like a different Rom-Com, and we meet a variety of different men, grumpy ones, sexy ones, alpha men, and witty men. Full of romance, humour and emotion I ‘binge read’ this boxset and look forward to the rest of the series, and finding out if Bella eventually finds her Mr Right!

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The Marcy Series Box Set: Books 1-3 by Linda J. Burson – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 19, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

The Marcy Series Box Set: Books 1-3 by Linda Burson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This intriguing and engaging dark romantic suspense story had me captivated throughout. I loved the fact that as all three books are in this set I could ‘binge read’ the whole series! In Rage, we are introduced to Marcy, Brad, and Liam. Marcy has anger issues, and we follow her journey in finding out why. In Confusion, Marcy is learning how to navigate her conflicted emotions. We also get to learn more about her and her relationships with both Brad and Liam. Agony and Ecstasy sees decisions being made whilst emotions run deep. The twists and turns continue in this third story, and there are lots more surprises for both Marcy, and us, the reader! It took me a few chapters to really get into the storyline and get to know the characters, but having done so I was then fully immersed in the story. Overall this was a real page turner of a read, and I recommend ‘binge reading’ the series, like I did!

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Portrait of Deception (A Southwest Suspense Novel) by Kathryn Dodson – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 19, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Portrait of Deception by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was hooked from start to finish with this fast paced and action-packed story. Margo, a photographer on the brink of fame is in Italy competing for a prestigious award. She is approached by a corrupt politician who wants her to devise a clever portrait to improve his reputation, but despite the large sum of money offered she refuses. Margo then wakes up in her hotel room, with no memory, having been slipped a blackout drug. Somehow, she has amassed $40,000 worth of damages to her hotel room and is then expelled from the contest. Left with no choice Margo is forced to go to the despot’s personal estate and ask for his help. Her plan is to earn enough money to cover her debts and then get back to her life. However, whilst at his remote castle in the mountains she discovers many of his secrets and lies, but increasingly fears the oligarch’s creepy propositions and demands will put her in further danger. I was gripped by this gritty thriller, and I literally could not put the book down. The plot twists and turns kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story. The descriptive narrative brought the setting vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the storyline. I loved Margo as the main character, likeable and relatable as well as being a tough, independent women.

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Smooth Hoperator (Love on Tap Book 2) by Sylvie Stewart – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 12, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Smooth Hoperator by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book two in this enjoyable series following the beer brewing Brooks family set in Asheville, North Carolina. Carter is getting used to being back at his family’s brewery, slinging beers and trying to embrace the simple life again having failed at his career in politics. Unfortunately some powerful people from his past are causing problems for his family. Carter needs the rather quirky local librarian Sunny, and her grandfather’s help in a risky plan to free him from his past. Sunny’s personality is as cheerful as her name, but she takes some convincing by Carter to go along with his plan. When Carter agrees to play the part of her fake boyfriend in order to make her true love jealous, Sunny agrees to help him. However, Carter soon develops real feelings for Sunny but is unsure of her true feelings about him. A fun, heartwarming romantic comedy story with likeable and relatable characters in Sunny and Carter. The descriptive narrative brought both the characters and the setting to life and made me feel immersed in the storyline. This was an entertaining and engaging read with a guaranteed HEA.

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Deja Brew All Over Again: A Runaway Bride Romance (Love on Tap Series) by Sylvie Stewart – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 12, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Deja Brew All Over Again: A Runaway Bride Romance by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another fun, lighthearted romantic comedy in this enjoyable and engaging series. It can be read as a standalone story or as part of the series. Having read and enjoyed the previous books I recommend reading the series. Miller is shocked when he’s carjacked by a very pretty girl in a wedding dress, but as the family screw-up he’s not sure he can be her knight in shining armour. Runaway bride Maisy and her little brother need Miller’s help, but he’s just got out of jail and trouble seems to find him. However, Maisy sees the good in him and is determined that others see that too, including Miller himself. Miller knows he should be pushing her away for her own good, but can’t help asking himself if he could be her knight after all. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I loved the likeable and relatable characters, both old and new. The chemistry between Maisy and Miller sizzled off the page and led to some steamy scenes. The small town feel came across in the descriptive narrative and I felt immersed in the storyline.

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The Scent of Snow (The Winemakers Series) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 12, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

The Scent of Snow by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging historical romance with a festive feel which kept me happily turning the pages. Set on the Count of Almoster’s estate, Pedro and Anne Daun from ‘The Winemakers Series’, epic love story continues. I would personally recommend reading the books in this series in order. Although it’s the Christmas season Anne and Pedro both seem to want different things for their future together. Whilst Anne is yearning for a child, Pedro who is scarred from his painful past is guarding his heart against being a father. As the family gather for their festive celebrations, the snow starts to fall and when a young boy gets lost in this snowy wilderness Pedro goes to rescue him, but finds his courage is tested. Pedro is forced to face his fears and find the true meaning of love and forgiveness, but Anne and Pedro’s marriage remains at risk with the couple wanting different futures, but hopefully their love is strong enough. I was once again transported back in time and to the Count of Almoster’s estate, this time in the snow which gave a lovely Christmas feel to the story. The setting was brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative and the added historical details which I’ve come to expect in this series. I loved being back with Anne and Pedro and enjoyed spending the festive period with them!

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Auctioned Surrender (Sinful Duets Book 2) by Via Mari – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 11, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Auctioned Surrender by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having enjoyed the previous book in this series I was looking forward to this second novel which is two stories in one, great for binge reading! First is Damian and Bryanna’s story, not only is he connected with the mafia he’s also a wealthy bodyguard. His assignment should have been easy, find Bryanna who had been kidnapped by a global trafficking ring and take her home to her family, but Bryanna has offer plans. Bryanna has secrets and the trafficking ring have a hold over her which makes her fight Damian and even escape from him. However, as soon as he saw Bryanna, he knew she was going to be his and he will do anything to protect her. Dereck and Layla also meet whilst he’s on an assignment, she’s an exotic dancer who has links to the criminal underworld. When Layla is in danger, Dereck calls upon his mafia alliances to help keep her safe, as all it took was one look and she was going to be his. I was captivated by these two dark romantic suspense stories, and although the storylines have me on the edge of my seat, I like knowing that the couple will get a HEA. The chemistry between both couples is fiery and I love how their relationships develop throughout the story. An enjoyable and engaging duet and I look forward to book 3.

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Good Enough (The Deadman’s Tribe Series Book 1) by Nicole Craig – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 10, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Good Enough — The Deadman’s Tribe Book 1: A Protector Romance / Romantic Suspense by Nicole Craig
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An entertaining and engaging romantic suspense novel which had me hooked from page one. Hollywood director Kai Serrano needs a Navy SEAL to be a consultant on her latest film, but she wasn’t expecting ‘every woman’s ideal military action hero’, Waters. Neither of them are looking for a relationship and Waters, a man with no identity, isn’t even allowed to have one. Waters realises that Kai is in danger when her brother goes missing following trouble on the set, including break-ins, thefts and accidents. Waters needs to figure out who she’s in danger from if he’s to protect her, and one suspect is her belittling executive producer. However, she could be leverage in her brother’s disappearance or she could unknowingly have something that she shouldn’t. As the couple try to figure it out they can’t ignore their mutual attraction and the growing connection they share. This is a fast paced, action packed story with plenty of drama, suspense and of course romance. The chemistry between Kai and Waters sizzles off the page, and I love how their relationship develops throughout the story. The storyline had me gripped and the plot twists kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story. This is book one of a new series and I look forward to reading book two.

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Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 4, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging cozy mystery which kept me hooked throughout. Town reporter April May is new to Laurel Lakes but has already solved one mystery, and now has a second. When the local store burns down and the cantankerous owner is presumed dead everyone in the small town is talking about it, but when a threatening note appears alongside strange sightings April is asked to investigate. Unfortunately her foster dog Ralph who could have helped her sniff out some clues has been claimed by his owner. However, she dose have the help of her new friends and the town vet. April soon discovers a link between Ralph’s owner and the recent events, but also a connection to her own mysterious past. April has to race against time to find the culprit before she ends up hurt or even dead herself. This page turner had me guessing until the last page due to the plot twists and turns. The characters were likeable and relatable and I felt engaged with the main character, April May. The small town feel really came across in the writing and the descriptive narrative brought both the setting and characters vividly to life. I look forward to investigating other mysteries alongside April in future books.

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Tropic Heat (Flamingo Island Series) by C. A. King – Review by Jennifer Gordon

January 2, 2024/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Tropic Heat by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This enjoyable, fun romantic comedy kept me happily turning the pages, and had me wishing I had a ticket to the Flamingo Island Resort! Jilted groom Daniel and his best mate Joey decide to go on honeymoon together, and use the expensive, non-refundable tickets to the exclusive Flamingo Island Resort. Joey tries to convince Daniel that in order to get over being jilted he needs to have fun with another women. However, it’s not until he meets Sara that he starts to agree and have fun. Daniel and Joey are looking forward to a trip of a lifetime, but I don’t think they were expecting the trip they got! Although this is a fairly quick read as it’s a short novella, the storyline has plenty of drama, suspense, fun, and of course romance. I loved the characters and I really enjoyed this lighthearted and heartwarming romance which also had plenty of steamy scenes.

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Mission Improbable: Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery) by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 29, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Mission Improbable: Vietnam by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging historical cozy mystery which kept me hooked throughout. Amateur sleuth Blanche “Bang” Murninghan is fishing whilst on Santa Maria Island when a woman asks for her help. Jean McMahon wants Blanche’s help in finding her mother but to do this she would have to go to Vietnam. Her own father was killed in Vietnam during the war, and she has always wanted to know the truth surrounding his death and so decides to go. Having landed in Saigon and met ex-pat “Stick” Dahlkamp they cross the rice paddies, and venture into the jungle towns where Stick has friends who can help with the search. However, Blanche starts to have doubts about how helpful, or not, he’s being. Having traced Jean’s mothers’ steps around South Vietnam they learn that she met with an infantry scout, Hank McMahon who was with the old Americal division. Blanche is as stubborn and as determined as usual and wont rest until they find Jean’s mother, and then follow her father’s trail and discover what really happened to him after the war. The descriptive narrative brought the setting vividly to life, especially the Vietnam landscape, which made me feel immersed in the story. The author is obviously knowledgeable about the Vietnam war. The storyline kept me guessing and I loved Blanche as she’s so likeable, and I enjoyed meeting the numerous shady characters her and Jean encountered on their travels.

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Hope For A New World (Gaia’s Voice Series) by Renee W Peek – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 29, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Hope For a New World by Renee W. Peek
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an original sci-fi, fantasy novel with an intriguing storyline and multiple fascinating characters. The story has an overall message about the environment and how our actions in the present have affected the world in the future, which is the setting of this story. Environmental attorney Maddison Bear’s Heart is chosen by those who speak to the earth and know her as Gaia, a sentient being. The Hopi people have always known the world would end and that earth would be reborn into the fifth world, and they want Maddison to lead them through the coming of this new world. When a young girl tells her that Gaia’s sister, Adelphi, a new planet will welcome them if they travel to her, the corporate military provide a ship straight away. They are glad to be leaving the ‘eco nuts’, who are always trying to protect the planet, behind. However, Colonel Miller is looking for a more permanent end to these protesters and so sabotages the ship and hunts down those who stayed. Many of those who stayed are women powered by the force of hope, but how many, if any will survive. The author did a wonderful job of bringing the setting vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, which made me feel immersed in the story. I found some of the characters a little difficult to connect with and as the story was told through multiple POV’s, I did get a bit confused early on. However, over all I found this to be an engaging read and I would happily read the next book in the series.

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Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Seraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another entertaining and engaging romantic comedy story in this enjoyable YA series, where Cupids are sent to help humans find their perfect love match. I’ve enjoyed the previous books and so was looking forward to reading this one and I was once again hooked from start to finish. Seraphina has been given the test of her eternal life, to find hockey superstar Seth Maxwell his perfect love connection. This is the third time she has tried and she’s determined not to fail this time, but Seth will need a makeover. He’s well known for not being a team player and for being involved in numerous scandals with different starlets. Seraphina will need more than her mythical bow and arrow to help guide him to the love of his life, and keep her. This is a fun lighthearted read which kept me happily turning the pages, and I was once again lost in the world of Cupids helping humans to find love!

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Jade: Hidden Scars: A Forbidden Age-Gap Romance (Book 1) by A. Akinosho – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Hidden Scars by A. Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a real page turner, with likeable and relatable characters and an intriguing storyline which kept me captivated throughout. Nasser and Jade meet when they are both a little lost and broken, Nasser’s days of being an alpha are over and he’s resigned himself to staying hidden, whilst Jade is the girl from the ‘other’ side. When Nasser says to Jade “Sit with Me”, everything changes for them both, but Jade always knew it would only be temporary as she was the girl everyone thought was unworthy of him, however, Nasser had other ideas. This romance was full of drama and suspense and the storyline took me on an emotional rollercoaster. The chemistry between Nasser and Jade sizzled off the page and I loved the forbidden element of their story. As this is the first book in a series I look forward to seeing how their relationship develops.

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The Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 23, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

The Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging MM Sci-fi mafia romance which kept me hooked throughout. When Kasper Kingston comes across a man claiming to be from another planet, he thinks it’s a cover story. Kasper is hiding out having set in motion a plan to weaken two major crime families. He believes Leilphun has been sent to kill him and so keeps him prisoner. When he saves his life Kasper starts to think that maybe he is an alien. Meanwhile, Leilphun has left his home planet having runaway from the authorities to avoid having to fight in the fighting arena, as a punishment. To save the human, Leilphun has to call upon his warrior spirit which he has sworn never to do in case he loses himself to his primal nature. To confuse things further Leilphun believes Kasper has initiated the betrothal ritual and Kasper is getting distracted by his otherworldly hero. I loved the two main characters and their chemistry sizzled off the page. As usual the author brought both the characters and setting vividly to life making me feel immersed in the story.

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The Magic Man (The Olympic Peninsula Book 3) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 21, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

The Magic Man by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having read the previous books in this enjoyable series I was looking forward to this third book and I was not disappointed. It can be read as a standalone story, however the characters do crossover and I love being able to ‘catch up’ with past characters. David O’ Connell has returned to Port Townsend for his sister Teresa’s wedding having spent four years as a surgeon in Africa. His family are concerned about him as he used to be cheerful and outgoing but is now subdued and secretive. He won’t even talk about his time in Africa or his fiancée Sylvia. When David and family friend actress Maddie meet they have instant chemistry, but once his fiancée arrives for Christmas David is soon busy appeasing her. Maddie realises she needs to move on and so when she meets her co-star and local heartthrob Kilo she is soon swayed by his charm. Maddie and David know they could be good together if given the chance, but there are so many obstacles between them, and why do David’s colleagues in Africa call him “the magic man”. As usual the characters and setting are brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, making me feel fully immersed in the storyline.

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Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series Book 4) by C.R. Alam – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 19, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Dangerous Rhythm by C.R. Alam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another enjoyable and action packed contemporary romance which can be read as a standalone story. Lead guitarist for Canis Major, Curtis Bisset is a rock legend in the making and enjoys the lavish lifestyle that goes with it. Having witnessed a chilling crime and with a dangerous Mob boss after him he is forced to flee New York. For his safety Curtis needs protection and Lina Cheung, who used to work for the Army’s Intelligence Unit is the women for the job. It’s been two years since Lina worked as security for the band but she finds that their connection is still there. However, like last time Lina is determined to keep her emotions under control, but unknown to Lina her unrequited love is not just one sided. Curtis is thrilled to see Lina again and this time he’s not going to let thoughts that he’s not good enough for her, stop him from proving he’s the right man for her. As they travel around the world staying ahead of those that are after them Lina is concerned her feelings for Curtis will compromise her mission of keeping him safe, and must choose between duty and desire. The chemistry between Lina and Curtis really sizzled off the page and I loved how their relationship developed throughout the story. The storyline had me hooked from page one and the action packed plot kept me gripped until the last page. Both the characters and the setting came to life through the descriptive narrative. This was a real page turner, which I recommend reading.

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Shadowed Agenda: An Enemies to Lovers Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller (Shadowed Defence Security Series) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 18, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Shadowed Agenda: An Enemies to Lovers Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging enemies to lovers romantic suspense thriller, which had me hooked throughout. When Regan Christenson and her daughter are threatened she turns to former Navy SEAL Pavlo Barislov, even though he annoys her. Pavlo finds Regan just as annoying but does not hesitate to protect her especially as the danger increases, but thankfully Pavlo has a relationship with Shadow Defense Security. The couple find themselves in an unexpected minefield full of deceit and treachery, and Pavlo starts to doubt whether he can keep them all alive. What neither of them expected was the sizzling chemistry and growing connection between them. This was an action packed story with great characters, and a slow-burn romance at the heart of the storyline. The plot twists kept me gripped and I found this book to be a real page turner. It can be read as a standalone story, and there are no cliffhangers.

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Sweet Dreams by Claire (Capture the Light Series) by Nanette Littlestone – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 16, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Sweet Dreams by Claire by Nanette Littlestone
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an enjoyable, sweet Irish romance which kept me happily turning the pages. The author whisks us away to the small town of Claremore in Ireland, where the residents of the town are friendly, if slightly nosy, and the town has a magical feel to it. Claire Francis works in her family’s bakery, but she now longs to open her own shop and make her dreams come true. However, her mother is not ready to retire, and won’t let Claire explore her creative side as she’s very traditional. Claire has other things to deal with when she gets embroiled in pre-wedding dramas, ahead of Brigid Cleary’s wedding. However, its Brigid’s brother Finn who is on her mind, as he gets her to question her safe and uneventful life and pushes her to take a chance on the attraction they feel for each other. Unfortunately, he is only in town for the wedding and spends the rest of his time on the water, which Claire is terrified of. As the couple grow closer Claire has a secret from her past which she can’t escape. Just as she fears she will never have both love and success a magical gift helps her to unlock the path to her dreams. This was a lovely, heartwarming romance with an opposites attract theme which had me engaged throughout. I loved the main characters, both Claire and Finn are likeable and relatable, and their chemistry came across in the story. The setting was brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative and I loved the storyline with its touch of magic. It definitely had the feel-good factor and I look forward to returning to Claremore soon!

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Renewed (Fateful Justice Series) by Sara Vinduska – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 11, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Renewed by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and entertaining romantic suspense which kept me hooked throughout. Set in wild Wyoming, the author does a great job of bringing the setting vividly to life through the descriptive narrative. It’s here that confirmed bachelor, cowboy Hayden Goddard runs his family’s ranch, and where he is shot and left for dead. He wakes up to find that his life has been saved by Ruby Drake, who is on the run from her past and has moved to the countryside for a fresh start. When Ruby’s past catches up with her Hayden is determined to protect the women who saved his life, and who he’s falling in love with. I loved how the relationship between Ruby and Hayden developed and their spicy chemistry sizzled off the page. This was a cowboy romance with plenty of drama and action, as well as suspense and the storyline had me gripped.

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Triple Trouble at Amberwood (The Amberwood Hall Ballet School Series) by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 9, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Triple Trouble at Amberwood: Book Four in your favourite middle-grade haunted ballet school… by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A fun and enjoyable story aimed at pre-teen age readers, however, as an adult I also thoroughly enjoyed the storyline. It’s part of the ‘Amberwood Hall Ballet School series, about a haunted ballet school. The fearless heroine of the series Lauren just wants to help a new ghost in town, but her act of kindness puts all the ghosts in danger. As she tries to put things right, amongst the strange happenings at the school her friendship with Grace is tested and she gets closer to Jay. Lauren must find out who is causing all the mischief and stop them, however she is torn between her loyalty to her ghostly best friend and her commitment to saving her school. Meanwhile, there is a prestigious show in the old theatre in the town and Lauren’s important exams are coming up. I loved the main character, Lauren and I found her to be extremely likeable, and I can imagine that she would be very relatable to those in the age range that this book is aimed at. The storyline is full of mystery, ghosts, friendship and pre-teen romance, and generally growing up. A wonderfully written story and an engaging read.

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To Catch An Elf by Debra Parmley – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 8, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

To Catch An Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and entertaining story which had me hooked throughout. What appeared to be a simple Christmas romance novel turned out to be much more. The intriguing storyline was full of drama, suspense, creepy Elf’s and of course romance. Marcie Hayes is house sitting in the Pocono Mountains whilst she dog sits Ginger. Thinking this will be a simple job, she’s a bit confused by the owner’s instructions to take daily pictures of a rather creepy looking antique Christmas elf, but apparently they will be entered into the online ‘Big Busiest Christmas Elf Contest’. Meanwhile, Ted Barrett an Air Force fighter pilot and his dog Ace are also in the Pocono Mountains, whilst he sets up his new house.
When Marcie and Ted meet whilst walking the dogs, they have instant chemistry and start dating. However, Ted then has to leave to go to his brother’s wedding, and he becomes concerned when Marcie stops answering his messages. When he returns he realises that she’s actually been taken but doesn’t know who would take her or why. Ted’s determined to find Marcie and he finds his first clue as to what happened to her, when Ginger attacks the creepy Elf. The characters and the setting were brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, and I felt as though I was in the Pocono Mountains along with Ted and Marcie. The chemistry between them sizzled off the page and I loved how their relationship developed throughout the story. I found this to be a real page turner and one which I couldn’t put down.

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A Journey for Dorothy (The Reluctant Wagon Train Bride Series) by P. Creeden – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 6, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

A Journey for Dorothy by P. Creeden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging historical romance which kept me captivated throughout. Although it’s part of a series it can be read as a standalone story. Each one is about one of twenty brides who have to marry in order to travel to Oregon on the wagon train. Dorothy Mason is a widow looking for a new start moving from Virginia and travelling west to Oregon. It’s not until she arrives in Missouri that she discovers that to travel on the wagon train she must marry again. Having sold her old house and everything she owns, Dorothy has no choice even though she had decided never to marry again, due to her broken heart. Reverend Elias Stone believe’s in bringing lost souls to the Lord, and feels that it’s his calling in life to help those that are lost and moving out west in search of gold and riches. He arranges to join a wagon train heading to Oregon and California but before his journey begins he finds himself in a harrowing situation, that nearly ends his life and potentially stop him from travelling.

His only option is to consider marrying a woman he doesn’t know, but he thinks maybe it’s God’s plan. Elias and Dorothy marry with the understanding they will get an annulment once they reach Oregon. However, having spent the long journey together maybe their plans will change, especially if they end up falling in love. This is a heartwarming, sweet romance with an intriguing storyline and wonderful characters. Both Dorothy and Elias are likeable and relatable, and I loved how their relationship developed throughout the story and their connection really came across. The setting was brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative and the added historical details transported me back to the era, and I felt as though I was travelling alongside the couple on the wagon train. I look forward to reading other books in this series.

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Lela’s Choice by Jennifer Raines – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 5, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Lela’s Choice by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Lela Vella is desperate to find her missing niece and her boyfriend who have runaway to Malta, before her father does. Meanwhile Hamish McGregor, a widowed Australian international child-protection lawyer has been asked by Giovanni Vella to search for his granddaughter. Hamish is shocked when Lela sees him as one of her father’s ‘henchmen’ and the enemy. He thought he was putting the needs of a child first, like always. However, reluctantly the pair work together to search for them, navigating many false leads along the way. As the couple work together an unexpected attraction develops, but Hamish is reluctant as his pregnant wife was murdered in a revenge attack by a client’s husband. Hamish had vowed to never put another woman at risk, but Lela wants to show him that living life is all about taking risks. I loved the characters, and the chemistry between Lela and Hamish really came across in the story. The settings were brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, and I felt like I had travelled along with Lela from Sydney to Malta.

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Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales Anthology by SE Smith, Jill Wallace, Eliza Sinclair, Kyndra Hatch, Candace Colt, Natalie Palma, Winnie Winkle, Electra Gajdos, Stephanie Harrell, Pauline Baird Jones, Cassandra Chandler – Review by Jennifer Gordon

December 3, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jennifer Gordon

Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales by Natalie Palma
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A festive anthology of eleven original stories by different authors which will get you into the holiday mood. This anthology is a mix of stories so has something for everyone, romance, fantasy, sci-fi, paranormal, mysteries and more. In ‘Searching for Thanksgiving’ by S.E. Smith, the youngest dragonlings are on a mission to find Thanksgiving. Whilst in ‘Twas the Fight Before Christmas’ by Pauline Baird Jones, Doc is not a fan of Christmas and is happier fighting than singing carols. Cassandra Chandler’s, ‘The Winter Queen’, sees a human man and a fae women come together, but he will have to melt her cold winter heart. ‘Home for Christmas’ by Candace Colt is a heartwarming paranormal romance where love and being together at Christmas are the best gifts.

‘Magical Mayhem’ by Winnie Winkle, is a fun and chaotic story featuring ‘Keeper’ Cleopatra O’Keefe. Stephanie Harrell’s ‘Wicked Beginnings’, is a steamy romantic story of missed chances, lingering love and mistletoe. Aliens are trying to stop Christmas in Kyndra Hatch’s ‘Christmas Trappings’. ‘Seshka’s Gift’ by Eliza Sinclair, is a story of dark forces and danger at the Mageguild Academy during the Harvestmoon. Whilst ‘Sunshine’s War’ by Jill Wallace, is a heartwarming story of love between a couple on different sides of a war.

In ‘Retired, but not Forgotten’ by Natalie Palma, a rather grumpy ex-homicide detective is paired with an extremely cheerful PI when a string of crimes occurs during the Christmas season. Electra Gajdos, ‘Unwrapping the True Spirit’, sees a billionaire weapons inventor discovering true magic of the holiday, after forgetting to buy his mate a present. I ‘binge read’ this anthology as I thoroughly enjoyed each story and was fully immersed in each one. A great weekend read to get you into the holiday spirit, which ever one it may be.

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