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Mistaken Identity (London Detective Agency Series) by Stephanie R. Caffrey – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Mistaken Identity (London Detective Agency Book 1)Mistaken Identity by Stephanie R. Caffrey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in a new series which had me hooked throughout. Evelyn Stevenson is a graduate student, who is excited to be leaving home for the first time to travel abroad to study. However, her adventure of a lifetime does not go to plan having had a mix up at the airport during her London layover. This mix up puts her on the radar of a dangerous and notorious crime boss, luckily she has also come to the notice of a very handsome, but burly private investigator Patrick Miller. Evelyn must now rely on him to protect her. Meanwhile, Patrick is on his own mission for revenge, so he’s not very happy when he has to protect Evelyn. Although the couple are both in danger the longer they are together they start to develop feelings for one another, but they need to focus on surviving. This romantic suspense kept me happily turning the pages. The exciting storyline and fast paced plot kept me gripped whilst I felt engaged with the likeable and relatable characters. The chemistry between Evelyn and Patrick came across in the narrative and I liked how their relationship developed throughout the story. I look forward to to book two!

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The Changed Man (The Olympic Peninsula Series, Book 4) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Changed Man (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 4)The Changed Man by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series, I was looking forward to being back with the O’Connell’s in Port Townsend and I was not disappointed. This is Jake O’Connell’s story as he causes a stir in Port Townsend having returned for his brother David’s wedding. Jake has made some dramatic changes in his life including leaving behind his enviable life as CEO of the family business in North Bend. He is now living in a rented Victorian mansion and has started a new career writing thrillers, which his friends within his old social circle disapprove off. Jake’s twin is the country heartthrob Joe Bob Blade who he has a complicated relationship with. He is also holding a grudge against his brothers who left him to be CEO of the family business whilst they followed their own dreams. Jake, who is still grieving for his friend, finds a muse in Chiara who he has an instant connection with but who is also married. This is an enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance which had be hooked from start to finish. Once again the setting of Port Townsend came to life through the descriptive narrative making me feel immersed in the story. The wonderful characters both old and new all added to the story, and I love ‘catching up’ with characters from the previous books. The heartwarming storyline focusing on Jake and Chiara took me on an emotional rollercoaster and kept me happily turning the pages.

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The Archcrusade: Tome One (The Archcrusade Series) by K. M. Hogenson – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Archcrusade: Tome One: The Archspawn - Pilgrimage & PropheciesThe Archcrusade: Tome One: The Archspawn – Pilgrimage & Prophecies by K.M. Hogenson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is an epic fantasy adventure with an exciting storyline and it’s a huge book with many pages. This is a very long read and not an overly easy one, mainly due to the high number of characters in the story all of whom have unusual names, making it hard to keep track of them all. The world building however is amazing and the fantasy world created by the author came vividly to life, which made me feel more immersed in the story. The main character and the one who I found it the easiest to feel engaged with is Basil, a sheltered healing mage’s apprentice. Basil sets out to march with the crusade called for by ‘The High King of Coserai’, to defend the holy land following a raid by bloodthirsty monsters at the first archangels birthplace. However, Basil has another reason for going, to accomplish his Low King’s agenda to find the oracle and gain insight into the realms fate.
Basil faces many dangers and threats on his journey, including from criminals and demons paid to kill crusade members. Along the way Basil begins to discover the truth about his divine destiny. Told from many different character POV’s I did find the narrative a bit difficult to understand at times. I also personally found there was an overload of information in each chapter which overwhelmed me rather. I must admit I did find myself flicking through some pages just to get to the end of the book. I found the book was just too long with too many characters and the multiple POV’s didn’t work for me. However, the storyline is intriguing, the characters are well defined and the setting comes to life, and as I am not an avid fantasy lover maybe I just ‘didn’t get it’! I did love Basil though and was left wondering what the author has in mind for him in the next book in this series.

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Finders Keepers, Cowboy (Match Made in Montana Series) by Rachelle Paige Campbell – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Finders Keepers, Cowboy (Match Made in Montana #1)Finders Keepers, Cowboy by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging small town western romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Meg runs an antiques store which is faltering, and so when her elderly friendly neighbour Hank asks her to clear out his shed she says yes hoping to discover a forgotten treasure. Her only concern in visiting Montana Ranch is seeing Hank’s grandson Ryan, her childhood frenemy. Ryan is a workaholic putting everything into his business having gone into the world of high-end tourism. He usually avoids Meg, his annoying neighbour, but with her clearing out his Grandfather’s shed he can’t ignore her. However, the forced proximity has him seeing Meg in a different light. As the couple’s feelings develop a surprise discovery forces them to choose to either trust in the potential of love, or end the relationship and move on. This is a sweet, heartwarming slow burn romance between two likeable and relatable characters within a small town setting. The enemies to lovers storyline had me hooked and both the characters and the setting came to life, making me feel immersed in the story. I also loved octogenarian Hank who is a wonderful character. I look forward to the next book in the series.

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The Complete Echo Series: A Heartfelt Romance Collection (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Complete Echo Series (Echo #1-4)The Complete Echo Series by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love a box set because it means I can ‘binge read’ the whole series without having to wait impatiently for the next book to be released. This is an enjoyable and engaging series of standalone stories featuring a different couple and their journey to love.

‘Echoing Hearts’, is Dean and Rae’s enemies to lovers romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Although fate keeps pulling the couple together, distrust, jealousy and doubt all play a part in whether they trust in love or not. I found the chemistry between Rae and Dean sizzled off the page, but I also liked the slow burn romance between them.

In ‘His Forever Muse’, Brandon and Calliope are childhood friends who become adult lovers in this heartwarming and at times heartbreaking story. It’s been fifteen years since the pair have seen each other but their connection is just as strong in this second chance romance. The story does deal with some domestic violence themes, however these are dealt with sensitively and do give a backstory to the characters situation.

Chris and Rowan start of as fake fiancé’s in, ‘Unexpected Entanglement,’ when Chris comes to Rowan’s rescue, to help her organise a beautiful wedding at her family’s inn for her cousin. This is a heartwarming romantic story with plenty of suspense, making it a real page turner.

‘Dangerous Rhythm’, is Curtis and Lina’s whirlwind adventure romance. Curtis is a rockstar in hiding and it’s Lina’s job to keep him safe. The chemistry between Lina and Curtis really came across in the narrative 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.

I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading this collection of contemporary romances, which I definitely recommend.

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Web of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Web of Evil (Hani's Daughter Mysteries Book 2)Web of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An entertaining historical cozy mystery drama which had me hooked throughout. The story is set in ancient Egypt during the first year of Tut-ankh-aten/amen’s reign, about 1335 BCE. The author really made me feel as though I had been transported back to this era through the both descriptive narrative and the added historical details. Neferet is the daughter of Hani, who features in another series by the author, which I also thoroughly enjoyed. The storyline follows physicians Neferet and Bener-ib along with their apprentice Mut-tuy. In this story a corpse washes up on the riverbank at Neferet’s father, Lord Hani’s house. The trio then visit the local village in the hopes of identifying the deceased, however, the three women soon become entangled in a web of secrets, lies and murder. Their investigations into a family of weavers put Neferet in danger but they all remain determined to discover the truth. I found the historical notes, character list and glossary at the start of the book very useful. I referred to the character list in particular many times, as the Egyptian names of the era do take a while to get used to. I love the three main characters and the fact that they are three independent and determined women physicians, who are likeable and relatable in 2024 even though they come from 1335 BCE!

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Outcast (Her Royal Harem: Ember) by Catherine Banks – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Outcast (Her Royal Harem: Ember Book 1)Outcast by Catherine Banks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging reverse harem paranormal romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Ember lives in a tranquil forest and is a healer who tends to wounded animals, shifters and hybrid outcasts. When a stealthy cheetah, a witty tiger, and a stalwart bear arrive on her doorstep she tends to their wounds, but she feels a connection with all of them. Then the charming Prince Caleb turns up determined to help Ember and once again she feels a connection, and soon the lines between duty and desire start to blur. Ember is happy living in solitude within the sanctuary she’s created but when she’s involved in a mystery which threatens this, she has to face painful truths about her own past. This really is a story of love, loyalty, and self-discovery and at the heart of the story is Ember who’s a likeable and relatable character. The setting and the characters were brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, and I felt fully immersed in the paranormal world that the author has created. I look forward to book two in this series.

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Family Ties Family Lies by Jacqueline Boulden – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Family Ties Family LiesFamily Ties Family Lies by Jacqueline Boulden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an entertaining and engaging novel which kept me captivated throughout. Photojournalist Rose Webster was injured after being shoved and landing on the hard pavement whilst at a raucous rally. Not only does she have one arm in a splint, a weakened right hand, and bruised ribs but her camera was also broken. Whilst filling out insurance claim forms her Aunt rings to say that she needs to return to her childhood home in Lake Amelia, to care for her ailing mother. While she’s there Rose decides to have a sort out of the attic and finds some of her late father’s personal items, including a photo hidden in a book and a travel bag which seem to suggest he might have had a secret life. Rose is determined to find out the truth even when she discovers something that shocks the whole family. I found Rose to be a likeable and relatable character who I felt engaged with. Both the setting, especially the small town of Lake Amelia in the foothills of the Adirondacks, and the characters were brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative which made me feel immersed in the story. The intriguing storyline and plot twists kept me hooked and I found this to be a real page turner.

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Fearless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, Book 5) by KG Fletcher – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Fearless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, #5)Fearless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this series about the Bennett family and just like the previous books in this series I was hooked from page one. I found that I was reading late into the night as I couldn’t stop turning the pages! As usual the small town setting of Langston Falls was brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, making me feel immersed in the story. This was the sensible brother, James Bennett’s story with a second chance at romance theme. James is still getting over a bitter break-up and is convinced that he doesn’t have time for relationships. That is until he becomes friends with single Mum and travel nurse Sara Larson who has been hired to be James father’s caregiver.
Her and her eight year old son Noah are living at the local economy motel however, when James discovers this he invites then to stay with him and his two dogs at Bennett Farms. Sara and James can’t deny their mutual attraction and the connection they feel to one another once they start living together. James tries to convince Sara to stay and build a permanent life with him, but Sara has secrets including the fact that she’s actually on the run. James and Sara are both likeable and relatable characters who I felt instantly engaged with. Their chemistry sizzled off the page and led to some steamy scenes in this roommates turned lovers romance. The storyline kept me happily turning the pages and I love the fact that the story has a guaranteed HEA.

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The Earl’s Match (The Thompsons of Locust Street Series) by Holly Bush – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Earl's Match (The Thompsons of Locust Street, #5)The Earl’s Match by Holly Bush
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging historical romance which kept me captivated from page one until the last page. Payden Thompson returns to America having been imprisoned and beaten whilst in Scotland, pursuing the man who had been threatening his family and his clan. The violence and loss has left Payden feeling fearful and the trauma is haunting him. Meanwhile, Clarice Endicott is finding Philadelphia’s society boring and she’s against her mother’s schemes to find her a wealthy husband. Then she is introduced to the handsome but sullen Payden and he captures her interest, especially when she learns that he has just returned from five dangerous years in Scotland. Clarice also makes an impression on Payden, but he is so consumed by his past violence and tragedy that he can’t see past that. I loved Payden and Clarice and their chemistry really came across in the narrative. The storyline kept me hooked, and the descriptive narrative brought both the characters and the setting vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the story. The added historical details made me feel as though I had been transported back in time and made the era the story is set in also come alive. I hadn’t realised that this novel was part of a series, about the unconventional Thompson family who are taking Philadelphia’s high society by storm. Although I read it happily as a standalone story, I personally feel that the family’s relationships and their backstories would be better understood if the books are read in order.

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It Comes From Within (House Valdis Series) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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It Comes From Within (House Valdis #2)It Comes From Within by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series I was looking forward to being back with Xenobia and co and I was not disappointed. The storyline continues and it is six months since Xenobia took over and the stress of the House Valdis expansion is starting to show. Xen is determined to show the former House Muerte members that she is not at all like their former Master. However, her good intentions have lead to insurrection, and an unsanctioned blood den is discovered, along with an unexpected enemy being revealed. This leads Xen to reminisce but her memories can either haunt her or give her the solution she needs for victory. Once again I was transported into the urban fantasy/paranormal world of the House Valdis, and the descriptive narrative brings the setting vividly to life. I love the quirky and unique characters and I enjoy the multiple POV’s as it makes me feel engaged with all the characters. The LGBTQ relationship dynamics add to the story and the fast paced, exciting plot kept me hooked throughout.

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A Girl, Stuck (Found Families Series) by Kelly Elizabeth Huston – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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A Girl, StuckA Girl, Stuck by Kelly Elizabeth Huston
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An entertaining and engaging romantic crime story which is full of suspense and which kept me hooked throughout. Main character Harriet “Harry” Smith is a tough if slightly reckless private investigator and a criminology professor in New York City. She’s on a surveillance job when she comes face to face with Trey Popov, who is a rising star in the Trubetzkoy crime family. Harry manages to escape and on their second meeting she is working undercover as a schoolteacher, but can’t help but feel an attraction to Trey. Despite wanting to climb the criminal ladder Trey can’t deny the connection he and Harry have, even though they are putting themselves in danger. Meanwhile, Harry is also looking for justice for her police detective father who was murdered. The descriptive narrative brings both the setting and the characters vividly to life, which made me feel fully immersed in the story. The storyline has plenty of plot twists which kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story, and although it’s part of a series it can be read as a standalone story. However, having met Harry in this novel I am keen to read the previous books in the series.

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Shadowed Deception: A Psychological Suspense Thriller (Shadow Defense Security Series) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Shadowed Deception: A Psychological Suspense Thriller (Shadow Defense Security Book 3)Shadowed Deception: A Psychological Suspense Thriller by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A gripping psychological thriller with plenty of suspense and romance and a touch of humour. Investigative journalist, Finlay Giammarino has an article fit for the front page, but it has also put her life in danger. She wants to expose the owner of a trendy nightclub in the heart of Paris, as she’s discovered it is a front for a human trafficking ring. It is also the only lead she has to finding her friend’s missing sister. Finley is determined to bring the men at the top to justice, and so in desperation asks former Navy SEAL, and journalist hater, Drake Reeves for help. The pair then find themselves immersed in a world of secrets and lies but to find the truth they must unravel the deception. This was a real fast paced, page turner with an action-packed storyline and plenty of plot twists which kept me hooked. Both the characters and the setting come to life through the descriptive narrative making me feel immersed in the story. It is the third instalment in an enjoyable and exciting series of standalone novels.

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Bailey and the CEO: A Corporate Love Story (A Better Man, Book 1) by Amy Q. Barker – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Bailey and the CEO: A Corporate Love Story (A Better Man Book 1)Bailey and the CEO: A Corporate Love Story by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this heartwarming romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Bailey is a widow who’s raising two teenage daughters and works as VP of Quality at Havelin. Meanwhile Fox is divorced and has two teenage sons and is the CEO of Havelin. When the pair have a chance encounter whilst on a plane journey, they are instantly attracted to one another, and sparks definitely fly. They soon discover that they have a real connection, and despite neither of them looking for romance they both want to take a chance on love. However, relationships between employer and employees in the corporate world is frowned upon and they find their developing relationship has many obstacles for them to overcome. This is a feel-good, uplifting corporate love story which I literally could not put down. I found this was a real page turner with a romantic storyline between two likeable and relatable characters. The descriptive narrative brought the setting to life, whilst the plot had enough drama along with the romance to keep me hooked. The chemistry between Bailey and Fox sizzled off the page and I enjoyed the dual narrative as this enabled me to feel engaged with them both. An enjoyable and engaging read and one which I recommend!

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Basil (Silver Springs Pets Series) by K. Rose – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Basil (Silver Springs Pets, #7)Basil by K. Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A quirky romantic comedy which can either be read as part of this multiauthor series or as a standalone story. Biomedical engineer Basil reluctantly joins a dating app only to unknowingly enter a supernatural realm. Following a disastrous date, vegan Basil is turned into a vampire, and uses her skills to create a serum which means she can live without needing blood. She decides to head to Silver Springs, a sanctuary for supernatural beings and opens a juice bar and tanning salon. Basil then meets three guys and soon finds herself in a reverse harem relationship. Her undead life is then put in danger when she discovers that vampire hunters are after her fangs. I was definitely taken on a ‘paranormal rom-com adventure’, and I felt fully immersed in this story. The descriptive narrative brings both the unique characters and the paranormal setting vividly to life. I liked the characters, and their chemistry came across in the narrative. I liked that basil was a proud curvy woman and that she found love with her supernatural suitors.

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The Mating Chance (Long Claw Pride Series Book 3 and LumberCats Series Book 2) by Brooke May – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Mating Chance (Long Claw Pride)The Mating Chance by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable shifter romance with a second chance at love theme which had me hooked throughout. Male mountain lion shifters must follow their instinct to find their mate when the call comes, and this usually only happens once. Boone Claw works as a log faller alongside his brother and lives a bachelor lifestyle surrounded by his crazy cousins. He has watched his family members all settling down having succumbed to the mating call, and so is thrilled when he finally gets it himself. Going on instinct he heads west and finds his mate, Cricket Adams. However, she is shocked when the call strikes her for the second time, as she has already found her mate and started a family with him. She cannot believe that fate would give her a second chance, having taken her mate away and left her as a single mother. When she meets Boone, she is in denial and rejects him despite their obvious connection. However, Boone is determined to convince Cricket to overcome her reservations. I was fully immersed in the world of mountain lion shifters, which the author has created through the wonderfully descriptive narrative. The chemistry between Boone and Cricket really came across and I liked the slight twist on the usual fated mate’s theme.

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The Scottish Play (Polyam Fam Series) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Scottish Play (PolyAm Fam Book 1)The Scottish Play by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging romantic comedy which kept me happily turning the pages. Molly Rose is completing her final grad school project; having written a play she now has to stage it. Her girlfriend Poe has found the perfect looking man for the kilt-wearing Scotsman role but unfortunately, he cannot act. The ruggedly handsome Lachlan is not sure how he’s ended up helping Molly but apparently, he has the perfect accent. Although Molly is happy with Poe they are in a polyamorous relationship, and she can’t help but feel an attraction towards Lachlan. Despite not having dated a man since high school Molly is keeping an open mind as her and Lachlan have a real connection. They all believe that once the play is over their fling will be too, but they are all keeping an open mind. I love the characters in this story, Molly, Poe and Lachlan are all likeable and relatable. The chemistry sizzled off the page and led to some steamy scenes. I loved the fact that the storyline centres on a polyamorous relationship, and I love the idea of this series chronicling a polycule’s romantic adventures.

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Murder At Music Hall (True North Murder Mystery Book 1) by A. J. Ullman – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Murder At Music Hall (A True North Murder Mystery Book 1)Murder At Music Hall by A. J. Ullman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A gripping murder mystery which had me hooked throughout. Trueman “True” North is a retired homicide detective who is very familiar with death and thinks that his next case will be just another ‘by-the-book’ investigation. However, when the case involves St. John Skidmore the richest man in town, he knows it’s not going to be easy. He’s been asked to find out who murdered the son, Stoddard Skidmore but must contend with both the meddling daughter Kitty and Skidmore’s ruthless business competitor. True finds himself in the land of the uber-rich among people who presume he can be paid off, warned off or seduced. True is determined to find the truth as if he does not find the real killer than an innocent man will rot in prison, and the murderer will be free. The characters and the setting were brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative. I found that True is a great main character, and I look forward to investigating further murder mysteries with him.

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Dark Sky at Dawn (Free Men and Dreamers Book 1) by L.C. Lewis – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Dark Sky at Dawn (Free Men and Dreamers, #1)Dark Sky at Dawn by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A wonderfully written historical novel about the children of the Founding Fathers, who were the first American born generation. Set during the war of 1812, I found myself transported back to that era through the authors descriptive narrative and the added historical details. Following the signing of the Constitution, Washington, Franklin, and Hamilton have all died and the British have been trying to break the spirit of the new young government. America declares war to reconfirm her independence. Both Jed Pearson the heir to a large plantation and visionary women Hannah Stansbury believe that a more divine purpose awaits the Union. However closer to home Jed has a tainted family heritage surrounded by mystery, whilst Hannah’s family may hold the answers he wants. As treacherous forces on both sides battle to manipulate the outcome of the war for their own purposes, Jed and Hannah are about to learn the ultimate definition of liberty. A fascinating story with well-defined main characters in Jed and Hannah. This is an era of history that I’m not familiar with, and I thought the author did a great job of setting the scene and explaining the history whilst also providing an engaging story.

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Hidden Mischief (Shattered Embrace Series) by Alyndra Quinn – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Hidden Mischief (Shattered Embrace #1)Hidden Mischief by Alyndra Quinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Ashton has been on her own for years and decides to finally move on. She applies for membership at a BDSM club ‘Shattered Embrace’, only to find that it is owned by Zachary. He is not only her new boss but also her best friend’s brother. Zachary is surprised when Ashton turns up at his club, but he finds her fascinating as she’s a mix of bold and innocent. However, they are complete opposites, but opposites can attract. Zachary and Ashton’s chemistry sizzles off the page and leads to some steamy scenes. The couple have a Dom/sub dynamic and I like how the author has included the BDSM community in this story. This is a great start to a new series and I look forward to returning to ‘Shattered Embrace’ soon!

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Critical Care (Chase Care Series Book 6) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Critical Care (Chase Care Book 6)Critical Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series I was looking forward to this latest medical romance and I was not disappointed. I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading this page turner of a novel and was hooked throughout. Tim Holland is a seasoned pararescue jumper along side being the facility director at Chase Care in Washington, DC. Willow Colson is a travelling nurse who is running away from her past bad relationships. The couple have been dating, but when Tim faces a life threatening personal battle it makes them both realise how much they mean to each other. Tim and Willow become involved in a medical mystery when Chase Care discovers that some chemotherapy drugs are being tampered with, resulting in countless lives being put at risk. The couple join an unlikely alliance with a man from Willow’s past in order to find out who’s behind the drug tampering and put a stop to it. Once again I was immersed in the world of Chase Care through the descriptive narrative which brings both the characters and the setting vividly to life. The storyline was full of drama and suspense whilst the plot twists kept the story unpredictable. It can be read as a standalone story, however I personally recommend reading the whole series as the characters do crossover. I look forward to book seven.

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The Rise of House Valdis (House Valdis Series) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Rise of House Valdis (House Valdis #1)The Rise of House Valdis by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the prequel to this series and been introduced to Xenobia I was looking forward to reading this novel, and I was not disappointed. This was a real page turner with an original and intriguing storyline and great characters all of whom are a bit quirky. Xenobia arrived on Earth seven years ago and was given a new start with only her best friend Maggie knowing who she really is. However, when Maggie is beaten Xen reacts and her split-second decision leads to her true nature being exposed. Xen must choose whether to keep her secrets or decide that her chosen family is worth exposing her secrets for. I liked the multiple POV’s as it meant I felt engaged with all the main characters. I also liked how the story includes LGBTQ relationship dynamics. Whilst the setting is brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative making me feel fully immersed in the story. Can’t wait for book two!

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Perfect Office Pact (Perfect Romance Series) by Maria Jane – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Perfect Office PactPerfect Office Pact by Maria Jane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable contemporary romance with an enemy to lovers and an office romance theme. Declan Jordan is Mira Vasquez’s boss but having crossed a massive line Mira could end his career. However, Mira uses the situation to her advantage and agrees not to say anything to the board if he helps further her career. Soon Declan wants to get to know Mira on a more personal level, but to do so means breaking their pact. He would have to take a chance that Mira won’t want to end his career once she knows him better. I liked having the dual POV as it meant I felt more engaged with both main characters. The chemistry between Mira and Declan came across in the narrative and I liked how their relationship developed throughout the story. A sweet romance with plenty of humour, emotions and a bit of drama all of which kept me happily turning the pages.

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Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago, #1)Deceptively Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a second chance at love contemporary romance with a dark element to it. I found myself engaged with the characters right from the start and the storyline kept me hooked. Harper and Gabriel were teenage sweethearts until tragedy parted them. When they meet again as adults Gabriel is still angry and hurt by Harpers actions. However, Harper has secrets, which explain why she did what she did thinking that by letting him go she could set him free. When they find that they are both in danger they can’t deny that all their old feelings are still there along with their connection. This was an emotional rollercoaster of a read and I found it to be a real page turner.

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The Curse of Jean Lafitte (The Big Easy Collection) by Mary Walsh – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Curse of Jean Lafitte (The Big Easy Collection)The Curse of Jean Lafitte by Mary Walsh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Set in New Orleans and amongst the mysterious streets of The Big Easy, this ghostly supernatural adventure had me hooked throughout. Juliet has her dream job as a pastry chef in the French Quarter, but when a food critic chokes on a traditional baby trinket in one of her ‘King Cake’s’ she looses her job. She finds herself going on a supernatural adventure looking for long lost treasure with infamous buccaneer Jean Lafitte. Juliet is forced to team up with the buccaneer known as the ‘Terror of the Gulf Coast’ and needs to quickly decide if she can trust him. Juliet is soon searching the haunted streets of New Orleans and getting help from local ghostly legends along the way. They only have two weeks to find the jewels and break the treasures curse. I found Juliet to be likeable and relatable whilst Jean Lafitte is a quirky character who you don’t know whether he’s trustworthy or not. I enjoyed the adventures the pair went on during their quest and the against the clock element kept the suspense high. The Big Easy setting was brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, making me feel fully immersed in the story.

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House Valdis Origins: Xenobia (House Valdis Series) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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House Valdis Origins: Xenobia (House Valdis, #0.5)House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A short paranormal story which takes place before the first ‘House of Valdis’ novel, and which I read in one sitting as it had me hooked. Once again the authors wonderful descriptive narrative brought both the intriguing characters and the setting vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the story. The original storyline kept me happily turning the pages, and I loved the main character’s Xenobia and Urd. Xenobia has been raised in a society where women are treated like cattle and so she obeys the rules and tries not to draw attention to herself. The only person she is friendly with is her best friend Urd, and so when they are both bought by a man with extreme sadistic tendencies she plots their escape. However, when Urd overhears their Master’s ultimate plan for them the girls have no option but to run even though they are not prepared. They hope to find the underground movement and get to safety, but whilst on the run and with their lives in danger Xen learns that the price of rebellion is high. I loved the relationship between Xen and Urd and I found this to be an enjoyable and engaging read.

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Fuller Sight by John Stone – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Fuller SightFuller Sight by John Stone
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a very intriguing and thought provoking novel with a completely original and unique storyline. It is a metaphysical novel, meaning that much of the story takes place outside of time as we know it. The main character is eighteen year old Danny Anderson who in order to protect the girl he loves from throwing away her dreams of becoming a doctor, decides to make the ultimate sacrifice and he kills himself by running his father’s car into a bridge’s concrete abutment. Following his death the story then follows Danny as he is reunited with his mother Nora, who then acts as his guide helping him reflect on his life and understand himself and others better.
The plot then concentrates on going back over his rather tragic life, and we learn how his mother died and the physical abuse he suffered by his drunken father and then his death. Danny then looks back on how his father’s death is seen as suspicious and how he was a suspect. We meet Sade and look at how their relationship developed and resulted in her planning on telling the police that she was responsible for Danny’s father’s death. As he begins to understand the karmic life lessons and the importance of the greater community Nora then guides her son through his many previous lives.
These include being a son of a plantation owner in 1775, a blind beggar, a monk, and a former nobleman’s heir in 1349. We also observe his grandmother’s life as a suffragette and his father’s actions during 1971. It’s at this point that I did get a bit confused and felt overwhelmed with all the information, it’s a long book and not a particularly easy read. However, I persevered and am glad that I did as it definitely got me thinking and overall it is an inspirational story.

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The Other Side of Together by Emily Cox and Nicole Allen – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Other Side of TogetherThe Other Side of Together by Emily Cox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging YA romance which kept me hooked throughout. This heartwarming and at times heartbreaking story took me on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading it. Marcus and Mei Li have been drawn to each other ever since they met at a trolley stop in Chinatown. However, that is all they have in common as Marcus is a boy with an enviable future, whilst Mei Li is a secretive girl with a dark destiny. They are prevented from ever being together by family and dark forces, but this does not stop them from communicating in secret. They then meet up secretly and as their feelings grow, they share their first kisses, and start to talk of love. Then one night a combination of dark connections and opposing futures tears them apart. Marcus is left longing for Mei Li and keeps asking himself if he will ever find her again. Such an emotional romance about love against impossible odds. I loved both Marcus and Mei Li as they are likeable and relatable characters. Their chemistry really came across in the narrative, and I loved how their relationship developed throughout the book. This is a wonderfully written story, and the author really sets the scene and brought the setting and characters to life through the descriptive narrative.

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Delayed Redemption (The DAG Team Series) by Kel O’Connor – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Delayed Redemption: DAG Team Series: Book 3 of 4 Special Ops Romantic SuspenseDelayed Redemption: DAG Team Series: Book 3 of 4 Special Ops Romantic Suspense by Kel O’Connor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this romantic suspense story to be a real page turner. Mateo is determined to escape his former life of crime and has one last undercover assignment for DAG and then he’s free. The assignment will also result in putting a major drug dealer out of business. When things don’t go to plan Mateo has to choose between his op and the only person who has ever believed in him. Having escaped an abusive home Janey is now living a much safer and better life. She is then kidnapped by a gang who want to get at her brother, and suddenly she’s thrust back into her old dangerous world. Janey is devastated when she comes face to face with Mateo, believing that he is still a member of the gang. She wants to trust him, after all he was her teenage crush. Meanwhile, there is a mole who is endangering ops and personnel at DAG, and the team are working hard to discover who it is before anyone else gets hurt. Janey and Mateo work together to find the last piece of the puzzle that Mateo needs to be free. They also can’t help but give into their feelings as secrets on both sides are shared. This was a fast-paced story with great characters and plenty of drama and suspense which kept me hooked throughout. I loved the character’s, especially Mateo and Janey and their chemistry sizzled off the page and led to some steamy scenes. An enjoyable and engaging read.

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Vacation Flirtation…or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Series) by Stacey Komosinski – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Vacation Flirtation...or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Book 1)Vacation Flirtation…or More? by Stacey Komosinski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and entertaining romantic comedy which took me on a winter getaway and kept me happily turning the pages. Giuliana Giovanni was meant to be having a fun filled vacation jetting off to Turks and Caicos with her best friend, but her friend is delayed at the last moment. However, when she meets the blue eyes of a handsome stranger in the row behind her she’s shocked by the attraction she feels. When they both turn up at the same resort, Giuliana’s plans for a relaxing holiday now change to involve lots of steamy glances and playful banter with Landon Parker. Landon had flown to the Caribbean for business but having met Giuliana his plans also change, and now he’s there for pleasure. However, Landon has secrets which he’s worried he might just tell her but then she might not want to continue their vacation flirtation. They both know that holiday romances don’t last, but they both wonder if maybe theirs could! This was such a fun, lighthearted story which had me hooked throughout. Giuliana is such a likeable and relatable young women and I loved the instant connection she had with Landon, and their chemistry sizzled off the page and led to some steamy scenes. The wonderful Caribbean setting came to life through the descriptive narrative and the vacation vibes definitely came across in the writing. There were some laugh out loud moments along with the heartwarming developing romance between the main characters.

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