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Right in Front of You (Morris Valley Gang Book 1) by Brooke May – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Right in Front of You: Volume One: Brinley & Adrian (Morris Valley Gang Book 1)Right in Front of You: Volume One: Brinley & Adrian by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging romance, which had me hooked throughout. Brinley is an Olympian shooter, who returns to her childhood home of Morris Valley when she’s in danger from a stalker. She’s always kept in touch with her group of friends, and so was looking forward to being one of the ‘tribe’ again. Whilst in the local pub she’s introduced to rancher Adrian Cook, and their chemistry is instant. Adrian loves being a rancher but remains single after his last girlfriend left having discovered that being a rancher is not how it looks on the TV. As Brin and Adrian, with some help from Miss Polly get to know each, Brin’s stalker turns up and she’s once again in danger.
Adrian, along with her friends hatch a plan to help keep her safe. Although their relationship started as a fling they both feel that it could be something deeper, but Brin never planned on staying. I loved all the characters in this romantic suspense and the plot kept me gripped. The descriptive narrative brought both the small town setting and the characters vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the storyline. The chemistry between Brin and Adrian sizzled off the page and led to some romantic, but steamy scenes. I also liked how their connection developed over the story, and enjoyed the interactions and banter between the friends. I really felt as though I was one of the Morris Valley gang and I look forward to reading each characters story.

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Return to Hoodoo (Boudin, Bourbon, and Barbecue, Book 1) by Reggi Dupree – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Return to Hoodoo: A Paranormal Women's Fiction Novel (Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo Book 1)Return to Hoodoo: A Paranormal Women’s Fiction Novel by Reggi Dupree
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in a new paranormal women’s fiction series, and it had me captivated from start to finish. Main character Gwen Carter is not happy having been summoned to her hometown of Hoodoo, Texas, and gained a second magical disability. Having accepted an inheritance which was too complicated to refuse, Gwen is then a witness to a murder by black magic. When Gwen finds herself at the top of the suspect list, she fears that she won’t be able to break her family’s curse. It’s not just her family legacy at stake if she can’t prove that she’s not behind the murders, it’s her life. Gwen is convinced that the current murders are actually connected to the one that made her leave her home in shame. This is an enjoyable and engaging supernatural thriller, with a wonderful main character, Gwen who is both likeable and relatable. The descriptive narrative brings both the characters and the setting vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the storyline.

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His Forever Muse (The Echo Series Book 2) by C.R. Alam – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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His Forever Muse (Book 2 of The Echo Series)His Forever Muse by C.R. Alam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging romantic suspense, which kept me entertained from start to finish. I loved the second chance at romance storyline, where childhood friends become adult lovers. Calliope is a hard-working Parisian art gallerist who has gone through dark times in her life and has felt broken, but who has put herself back together again, bit by bit. Meanwhile, Brandon Rossi is the boy-next-door in a rock star package, as the front man of rock band, Canis Major, and is also Callie’s little brother’s best friend. When the pair meet up again in the middle of the desert in Morocco, he realises that she was the one who got away, and she realises she’s been in love with him since they were children. Brandon has always expressed himself through his music, but has hit an invisible wall and he can’t seem to create anymore.
Having headed off to find inspiration, once he finds Callie, she is his muse. Brandon is able to remind Callie of who she is and their connection has only intensified over the years. Their chemistry sizzles off the page, and Brandon is willing to give her everything, but she’s unsure of opening up to him, and then there’s the fact he’s her younger brothers best friend. However, ultimately it’s her past that may cause problems for the couple. A heartwarming and at times heartbreaking story, I felt fully immersed in the storyline and felt invested in the characters. The story does deal with some domestic violence themes, however these are dealt with sensitively and do give a backstory to the characters situation. It can be read as a standalone story, however, I have read and enjoyed the previous book in this series, and so would recommend them both.

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Mission 3047: One Soul’s Fantasy by Stuart Ledwith – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Mission 3047: One Soul's FantasyMission 3047: One Soul’s Fantasy by Stuart Ledwith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging read with an intriguing storyline which kept my attention throughout. Due to the title I thought this was going to be more of a sci-fi story, however the extra-terrestrial elements come through the main characters job. June, who also occasionally goes by Chloe has a top secret job, which involves missions along with friend and confidante Sarge. Closer to home and June is married to Joe who is incapacitated following an accident, and has teenage daughters, Livy and Cora. When not working June cares for her comatose husband, along with health care aide Barb. The descriptive narrative really brings both the setting and unique characters to life, making me feel immersed in the story. June is a great main character who seems to have a lot on her plate. I was a bit confused by her relationship with Sarge, as their chemistry which came across in the narrative was more of lovers maybe than friends. Overall this was an entertaining read, and one which I would recommend.

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Falling for You (Buckeye Falls Book 2) by Libby Kay – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Falling for You (Buckeye Falls, #2)Falling for You by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging sweet romance set in the wonderful small town, Buckeye Falls, Ohio. It can be read as a standalone story, however, having read and enjoyed the previous book in the series, I was looking forward to this one and I was not disappointed. The setting of Buckeye Falls was again brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative, and you really get that small town, everyone knows everyone feeling. CeCe LaRue is focused on her job as a pastry chef, and likes having control in the kitchen. She definitely doesn’t have time for distractions, especially not her sweet, coworker, Evan Lawson.
Evan is a chronic optimist, and has a sunny disposition which he brings to his job at the diner. Evan loves his job, but also has a long term crush on CeCe, but he’s been biding his time realising that love can’t be rushed. However, when a face from CeCe’s past turns up in town, as the celebrity chef host of a major food competition, Evan worries he may have left it too late. CeCe was hesitant to enter the competition despite her culinary skills, but when she comes face to face with the celebrity chef she has to confront her painful past. I was fully immersed in the storyline, and loved the main characters and the chemistry between CeCe and Evan. I was cheering them on, hoping they would get their HEA.

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Shadow (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter Book 2) by D.M. Earl – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Shadow (Devil's Handmaidens MC-Book Two)Shadow by D.M. Earl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another gripping story about the all women’s motorcycle club, the Devil’s Handmaidens MC, the Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter. Full of action, drama, suspense and a little steamy romance this book kept me hooked throughout. Zoey “Shadow” Jeffries is the club’s enforcer, and has a heartbreaking back story, of being sold into slavery as a child, then being left for dead and having to fight for her freedom. Shadow, along with the club now help protect and save other young trafficked victims from sexual predators.
When Shadow meets Panther, a sexy Navajo horse rancher, they become a team navigating the dangerous world of human trafficking, in order to save the women. However, working together they can’t deny their mutual attraction or chemistry, which sizzles off the page. Both have their own pain but they might just find their own happy ever after together. Another dark storyline which is not always an easy read, but the great characters and the connections between them make this an engaging story. I felt completely immersed in the MC’s world thanks to the descriptive narrative, and I look forward to returning to it, with the next book in the series.

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The Summer I Went Crazy by Laura Koerber – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Summer I Went CrazyThe Summer I Went Crazy by Laura Koerber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is an emotional and engaging read, which grabbed my attention from the first line and held it until the last. Written from the point of view of Ben, a well educated young man from a rich family, who spend their summers in Europe. Ben was on a fast track to success, off to Yale, with family connections to plenty of influential people and future job opportunities, and then, he witnesses a rape. Although at the time he’s not sure if it is rape, as he is drunk, as is the girl and so is everyone else, but it plays on his mind, for forty years until he makes a phone call. At the heart of this book it’s a coming of age story, but it’s also an honest and sensitive look at how a rape affects all those involved. It’s an original storyline, in that it’s written from not only a young man’s point of view, but also from a witness to a rapes view point, and I think it works well. It’s a difficult read, as its so well written I felt totally immersed in the story, and so felt everything that Ben did. The difficult subject matter is written about with sensitivity, and the story definitely gets the reader thinking. After all the story shows how one drunken summer night can change your whole life.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions (Notebook Mysteries Book 5) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions (Notebook Mysteries book #5)Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series I was looking forward to being back with Emma and Jeremy, solving yet more mysteries. As usual the descriptive narrative and historical details transported me back in time, making me feel immersed in the story. Set in January 1889, the Pinkertons and Emma find themselves involved in a heart-rending case. Emma and Jeremy find it challenging and emotionally draining, and it tests their investigating skills. However, their partnership is also tested as they struggle to support each other during such a difficult case. Independent sleuth Emma is soon involved in yet more mysteries, as three families reach out to her. Emma knows who the man is at the centre as each mystery links back to her past. Meanwhile, Emma’s safe home life with her tight family is put at risk when a past-haunted stranger arrives. An action packed storyline full of adventure, mysteries, crimes and a little romance, kept me happily turning the pages. The plot twists kept me guessing, and I was gripped throughout. This series keeps getting better and better!

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The Thieves (The Millersville series) by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The ThievesThe Thieves by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I found this novel to be an entertaining page turner, with a gripping storyline, quirky characters and plenty of drama and action. It’s a fast paced crime thriller that had me hooked from page one, and the twists and turns kept me guessing, and turning the pages! Jasmine Bucker only turns to crime in order to provide her father with the cash needed to save him from a rare lung disease. Her plan is to steal the money from her shady boor of a boss, but things don’t go to plan when sirens are heard during the getaway. Jasmine soon discovers that the cops are bogus and have stolen the money from her. Although she’s stranded and broke, she’s determined to get the life saving money back, and so must outwit the more professional crooks, and pull off a high stakes recovery mission. This was an enjoyable and engaging read, with an action packed plot and wonderful characters, whether they were good guys or bad ones. I felt completely immersed in the storyline and felt invested in the outcome along with Jasmine.

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Spirit Guide (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 3) by Byrd Nash – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Spirit Guide (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #3)Spirit Guide by Byrd Nash
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series, I was looking forward to being back alongside Elinor Chalamet investigating another mystery. Ghost Talker Elinor, and love interest Tristan Fontaine, the Duke de Archambeau have to work together when a nobleman’s daughter goes missing. The pair must discover who has kidnapped her and why, but when others go missing they wonder if the missing girls are linked to a mysterious séance, where ghosts become flesh. Elinor is also still looking for her father’s killer in Alenbonné, and wonders if the Society is hiding something from her. When Elinor decides to investigate alone, despite Tristan demanding she doesn’t, she must use all her wits and ghost talking skills. However, when Tristan discovers that she is now also missing, no one can face his wrath! This is an entertaining story, with great character and a gripping storyline all of which kept me gripped throughout. As usual the descriptive narrative and historical details transported me back in time, making me feel immersed in Elinor’s world.

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Ocean’s Three (Made In Heaven #2) by Elena Kincaid – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Ocean's Three (Made In Heaven, #2)Ocean’s Three by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging paranormal romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Cameron Pompeo sees and feels things that he cannot explain, like the young girl, Jocelyn who appears nightly in his dreams, and seems so real. When his cousin Reed also shows up in his dream he realises that Jocelyn is real, and is important to both of them. Meanwhile, Jocelyn Parker has struggled with her guilt ever since her mother was tragically killed in an accident. She has convinced herself that she has made up the two most important people in her life, although something in her soul tells her that the two men are real. The three of them are finally brought together on a cruise to the Mediterranean. They finally meet, make real memories together and make promises of a future with the three of them being together. However, with outside forces threatening their relationship they may not be able to stay together when the cruise is over. This is an entertaining read, with an intriguing storyline and plenty of steamy romance. The characters are likeable and relatable, and the chemistry between Cameron, Jocelyn and Reed sizzles off the page.

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

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The Forlorn Cowboy by Stacy-Deanne (The Studs of Clear Creek County)The Forlorn Cowboy by Stacy-Deanne by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging historical romance with a western feel to it. The storyline has interracial, age gap and forbidden love themes, and cowboys! Rancher Christopher falls in love with the much younger Greta Fay, but unfortunately for him he’s already marrying socialite Minnie Locke. To complicate things further, Greta Fay is a black activist fighting for the rights of Clear Creek County’s black citizens. Christopher has to choose between his growing love for Greta Fay, and the fact that if he marries Minnie he will become a very rich man. Meanwhile, Greta Fay’s dreams of fighting for Negro equality have put her at odds against her parents and the law. However, it’s her growing attraction to Christopher that threaten everything she stands for. I felt the chemistry between Christopher and Greta Fay, and liked how their relationship developed. The descriptive narrative brings both the characters and the setting vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the story.

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Ruthless Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 1) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Ruthless Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 1)Ruthless Hawke by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Having read and loved the prequel to this novel, and been left with a real cliffhanger I was looking forward to this novel, and I was not disappointed. This page turner of a story continues Isaac and Jack’s story, but it’s five years since their anonymous weekend together. Isaac is part of the Hawke family, who have an empire in New Orleans, and run everything from the courtrooms to the streets. They are known as being ruthless and willing to do anything to protect what’s there’s. When Isaac is told to expect a women who needs to be kept safe, he was not expecting a face from his past, the mysterious ‘Jack’. He definitely wasn’t expecting the little girl with her, who has his own Hawke blue eyes. Unfortunately, they bring danger with them, but for Isaac it’s now personal. This is a fast paced, action packed read, with great characters, and a gripping storyline. I was hooked throughout I and felt fully immersed in the Hawke’s world. I loved Isaac and Jack, and their chemistry was still sizzling off the page. This can be read as a standalone, but I recommend the prequel, and I can’t wait for book two in the series!

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His Protector by Sara Vinduska – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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His ProtectorHis Protector by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this entertaining and engaging romantic suspense, which kept me hooked throughout. President Jack Amborn is left grieving the death of his wife and unborn child, following a botched assassination attempt. Although the assassin is still at large, he’s determined to carryout his Presidential duties, after all that’s what his expert security detail is for, to keep him from harm. That job goes to Secret Service agent Ginger Carver who has literally spent her life preparing for this job. She has put in endless hours, and meticulous planning and constant vigilance are second nature to her. However, she never planned for falling in love with the man that she’s duty-bound to protect! This is an action packed story, with great characters and a refreshing storyline, having a female protector for a change. I loved the chemistry between Jack and Ginger, and how their slow burn romance developed. Meanwhile, the plot twists kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story.

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Shameless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 2) by KG Fletcher – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Shameless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, #2)Shameless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed book one in this series I was looking forward to being back in Langston Falls with the Bennett’s, and I was not disappointed. This story focuses on small town Walter (Walt) Bennett and city girl Elyse Farrell, in an opposites attracts steamy romance. Broody and a bit grumpy Walt has worked hard to protect his family and make a life for himself in Langston Falls, whilst the sexy television producer, Elyse has no interest in settling down in a small town. Therefore, he knows that he should have looked the other way when he saw Elyse in a very revealing dress at a studio party, but he couldn’t resist their chemistry and neither could she. Thinking they can only ever be friends who shared a passionate night together, they plan on going their separate ways. However, when then get trapped together during a freak snowstorm they realise there connection maybe stronger than they thought. The descriptive narrative once again brought the small town feeling of Langston Falls vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the storyline. The chemistry between Walt and Elyse really came across in the writing and I was hoping they would get their promised HEA.

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Frozen By Lies (Sleigh Riders Book 1) by Martha Sweeney – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Frozen by Lies (Sleigh Riders #1)Frozen by Lies by Martha Sweeney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging paranormal romantic fantasy adventure. As promised it was a mix of bikers, feuding clans, swearing, mates and magic, spiked hot chocolate and plenty of innuendos. The feud between the Frost Clan and the Klaus Clan has been going on for so many generations that most of them don’t know the origins. All anyone knows is that, ‘the bitter fault of one caused the magic from within to wither and die”. Things become complicated when Noelle Frost and Nikolaus Klaus find themselves drawn to each other. However, this could destroy both their worlds, unless the couple have the power to restore balance to the world by bridging the ancient chasm. The storyline obviously has echoes of Romeo and Juliet, but with spiked hot chocolate!The descriptive narrative brings the characters and the setting magically to life which made me feel immersed in this fantasy story.

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Streets of Shadow by Rebecca Bischoff – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Streets of ShadowStreets of Shadow by Rebecca Bischoff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this historical YA novel which had me hooked from start to finish. I fell in love with the main character, Kenna literally on page one when the reader is introduced to her, whilst she’s scaling a wall in her skirts! Of course the book is set in 1665 so a fifteen year old girl should definitely not be scaling walls. This act alone gives the reader a taste of Kenna’s character and personality. Kenna is fleeing from her grandfather’s Scottish estate having suspected that her sister was murdered by her husband, and fears that she will be next. However, as she was fleeing she is kidnapped by a stranger who takes her into the city of Edinburgh, where she is locked inside the gate at the head of Stewart’s Close.
The Close is a long, narrow alleyway into the poorest part of the city. Kenna is accused by the local lawman of leaving a plague stricken house, so a white cloth is tied outside to warn others that the disease has struck, and no one can enter or leave the close. Without money, or friends she has no way of leaving, all she wanted was to find justice for her murdered sister, but now she needs to survive and escape herself. This has a gripping storyline with plenty of plot twists that kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story. The descriptive narrative brought the setting vividly to life, and the added historical details transported me to Edinburgh in 1665.

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Cry Baby (Pierce Brothers Book 4) by Belinda Williams – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Cry Baby (Pierce Brothers, #4)Cry Baby by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An enjoyable, emotional and engaging read which kept me happily turning the pages until late at night. Although book four in a series it can be read as a standalone story, as each book focuses on one of the naughty but nice Pierce brothers. Having read and loved the previous stories, I was looking forward to this instalment and was not disappointed. Amy takes a live in nanny job but forgets the first rule of being a nanny, don’t fall for your boss! Confirmed bachelor Noah Pierce prefers numbers to people, but when one of his close friends dies unexpectedly his life changes.
His friend has left Noah sole guardianship of her baby girl, Amelia, and so Noah takes on Amy as a nanny. Amy sees Noah as the brooding silent type, but whilst Noah seems determined to find Amelia’s dad, Amy thinks Noah can do a great job as her guardian. Amy definitely didn’t expect to fall for her boss, anymore than Noah planned on falling for the nanny, after all they both stand to lose if their relationship crosses the line from professional to personal. As usual I fell in love with the characters who are likeable and relatable. The chemistry between Amy and Noah really came across in the narrative. The emotional storyline had me hooked throughout, and was a good mix of romance, humour and emotions. A heartwarming story which I definitely recommend.

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The Exchange by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Exchange: A NovelThe Exchange: A Novel by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A gripping psychological thriller which had me hooked from page one. The intriguing storyline and plot twists definitely made this an unpredictable story, and it kept me guessing until the end. Sam Crawford moves to Los Angeles having finished high school to pursue acting, but after several failed prospects she is no further forward with her plans. She then meets a man who promises that he can help her with her acting, and being desperate to succeed Sam takes Corey up on his offer. However, she was not expecting his proposition to be an exchange, that involves her unwanted baby. When her child goes missing four years later she doesn’t know what to think, has the exchange finally happened, or has Sam become a mastermind of organised crime. Sam is a great main character who really brings the story together, however she’s not a very reliable narrator, meaning as a reader you never really know who to trust or believe in this story, making it a suspenseful read. It definitely had me reading late until the night and I wasn’t expecting the promised incredible twist!

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Ale’s Fair in Love and War by Sylvie Stewart – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Ale's Fair in Love and War (Love on Tap, #1)Ale’s Fair in Love and War by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging romantic comedy which kept me happily turning the pages. I love the main characters, Cash and Hollis who are both likeable and relatable characters with plenty of chemistry. Cash runs his family’s brewery and Hollis is a dog groomer and they are neighbours, the worst neighbours, this is an enemies to lovers romance. The pair have plenty of banter between them and they like to play pranks on one another, but when Cash thinks Hollis has gone too far, he’s willing to play dirty to save his business. This is a fun, lighthearted story with plenty of laugh out loud moments, but also full of emotion and of course romance. The couples sizzling chemistry leads to some rather steamy scenes, and I was cheering them on to a HEA.

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A Stranger in Disguise (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a gripping crime mystery story full of suspense, which had me hooked from start to finish. Detective Maurizio Scala is in Rome, Italy, where he has a case to solve, a member of a foreign acting company has been brutally murdered. The Detective believes the last person to see the victim is a suspect, but then later fears he has a killer on his hands when she’s found by the river dead. As Detective Scala investigates he discovers that the apparent simple life of the victim is actually very complex. As more secrets emerge the Detective must stop the killer before they strike again. A thrilling whodunit, this is actually book four in a series, but I easily read it as a standalone story, however having been introduced to the Detective, I’m intrigued to read the rest of the series. The characters and setting came alive through the detailed descriptive narrative, and the plot twists kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story. An entertaining and engaging read, which I recommend.

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How To Write A Historical Novel And Love It by TL Clark – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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How To Write A Historical Novel And Love ItHow To Write A Historical Novel And Love It by T.L. Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is an interesting and informative yet lighthearted non-fiction guide to writing a historical novel, aimed at a novice writer. Written in a fun and approachable style, I felt as though I was sat down with the author having a chat over a cup of coffee. Set out in chapters each one with a different topic, the book is easy to navigate and to go back to chapters if needed. I particularly liked the ‘tasks’ at the end of each chapter which made me think, and do a bit of homework! The author is obviously very knowledgeable about both writing historical novels and of the publishing process, after all she is a best selling author with ten years of experience, and it shows. The author has openly and honestly provided the beginner novelist with her years of wisdom, whilst not shying away from the fact that writing is hard work. Tips on writing, formatting, publishing, and advertising are all provided along with a bit of hand holding from a professional, who you feel wants you to succeed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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My Inner Critic by Christine Bernard – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Shore Lodge by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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

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

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