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Five – Alarm Christmas : A Novella by Melinda Valentine – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Five-Alarm Christmas : A NovellaFive-Alarm Christmas : A Novella by Melinda Valentine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Five-Alarm Christmas is a great contemporary romance novella by Melinda Valentine. I had never read any of this author’s work but at only 37 pages I thought it was worth giving it a go. Although very short, the author has managed to pack a lot into this novella which I devoured in one sitting.
If you are looking for a short steamy romance then I suggest that you give Finley and Garrett’s story a chance. When Finley and Garrett hook up at a bar and have a hot steamy night together they don’t expect to ever see each other again, only to discover the very next day that Finley is the daughter of Garrett’s new boss at the fire station. Everyone at the firs station knows that the boss’ daughter is out of bound but that doesn’t stop Garrett from wanting more than the one night from Finley.
This is a really great story, albeit very short. I’d love to read a full length novel about the exploits of Finley and Garrett as I’m sure it would be a very hot, sizzling read.

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Rick: Ingram Brothers #3 by Roz Lee – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Rick (Ingram Brothers #3)Rick by Roz Lee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rick is the 3rd book in the Ingram Brothers series by Roz Lee. This book can be read as a standalone. I had not read any of the previous two books and did not feel that I was missing any necessary information. Although now having met all 3 brothers in this book, I’d like to go back and get the stories of the others two brothers Jake and Will.
Unlike Jake and Will’s stories, Rick is an M/M romance. I don’t read a lot of M/M romance but do usually enjoy them when I do and I really enjoyed this book very much as there was so much going on that just the M/M sex scenes although I must point out that they were HOT!
I really enjoyed Rick and Brent’s story. Rick is ex-military and has kept his sexuality hidden. He is well and truly still in the closet. Thanks to his brother he now has Brent as his roommate but the attraction between the 2 is off the charts and they soon can’t keep their hands off each other.
I was really rooting for Rick to come out to his brothers but I’m sure he never expected them to find out the way they did. That was one of my favourite scenes and I won’t spoil it by saying what happened but it’s definitely worth a read for this scene alone.

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Fighting for Us (Love is Worth Fighting For Book 1) by Bella Emy – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Fighting for Us (Love is Worth Fighting For #1)Fighting for Us by Bella Emy
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fighting For Us is the first book in the Love Is Worth Fighting For series by Bella Emy. It is a really great contemporary romance by an author that was new to me. I’m being braver and trying out a lot of new authors and I’m so glad as I’ve found lots of exciting authors out there, including Bella Emy.
The author had me in floods of tears from the very beginning as Lorenzo loses his beloved wife. I was heartbroken for him and his baby daughter. Lorenzo is a character that I fell in love with from this very first chapter and I went through every emotion with him: his despair at losing his wife, his angst at having feelings for Carissa and not wanting to sully his wife’s memory.
Carissa is another wonderful character. She’s had a tough time and I just knew that she and Lorenzo would be perfect for one another. I adored reading their story as it had so much emotion throughout. I enjoyed how they originally got together, continually randomly bumping into one another and both being unable to get the other out of their minds. The author does a great job of building their relationship up and keeps the reader engaged with the story.
I really loved this book and would definitely recommend it to others.

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Fake Fiancé (A Second Chance Office Romance) by Amy McKinley – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Fake Fiancé: A Second Chance Office RomanceFake Fiancé: A Second Chance Office Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fake Fiance is a fantastic office romance by Amy McKinley. It was previously published in the Sinful Secrets (A Contemporary Romance Box Set). I have been a huge fan of Amy McKinley’s writing for a long time so it’s always great to get lost in her writing again.
Adeline has her dream job lined up in Italy but what she doesn’t expect is that within days of starting her new job she’s playing the role of fake fiancé to her hot but very grumpy boss, Stone, so that he can convince a possible seller that he’s a respectable family man.
What results is a great story that I was engrossed in and read in one sitting as I didn’t want to put it down. Adeline and Stone’s story is a great read. Both are great characters that I totally fell in love with. The more you get to know Stone you get to see a different side to the ruthless, cold, arrogant businessman and he’s actually a very nice guy down deep inside.
The story is very well written and flows well and kept me engrossed throughout. One thing I loved was the setting of the book. You are treated to detailed description of beautiful setting in Italy and it makes me want to visit there and see it all for myself.
All in all this is a great book that I’d definitely recommend to others to read.

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Second Chance eX-mas by N.D. Jackson – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Second Chance eX-masSecond Chance eX-mas by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Second Chance eX-mas is a great contemporary romance by N.D. Jackson. At 123 pages it is a quick, but very enjoyable read. I devoured it in a few hours. It’s always a worry when you try out a new author but this was a very pleasant surprise as I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Ally and Archer had been the perfect couple until he broke it off and went away to join the military. Years later he is back home and he wants Ally back but Ally has a huge surprise for him. A gorgeous little girl called Glory. For me Glory was totally the star of this book. She’s absolutely adorable and very quickly has Archer totally twisted around her perfect little finger.
I really loved reading Ally and Archer’s story. Both are amazing characters that I fell in love with. Ally’s been hurt badly by Archer and is vert sceptical about letting him back into her life although she won’t stop him seeing Glory. Archer is determined to win Ally back and for the three of them to be a family.
Although this is a short read, there is so much packed into this story. It’s angsty, romantic and had me hooked from the very beginning and I didn’t put it down until I finished it. A great read!

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CLAIM ME NOW (Heron Harbor Book 2) by Lea Nolan – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Claim Me NowClaim Me Now by Lea Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Claim Me Now is the second book in the Heron Harbor series by Lea Nolan. Although part of a series it can be read as a standalone. I had not read the first book in the series before reading this one and didn’t feel that I was missing any necessary information. In fact, I had not read any of this author’s work before reading this but I’m very glad that I chose to read this book as I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Claim Me Now is a contemporary romance that has great characters and the story flows very well, keeping the reader engaged throughout.
Raven Donovan has chosen to go to her family home in Heron Harbor after a particularly disastrous day at work. What she didn’t expect was the handsome man in her house. Jack Baines needs a break after a stressful week at work and his friend Lark Donovan offers him her family home for a weekend away.
Raven and Jack’s story is great. Both are unwilling to leave the house so they agree to both stay there but give each other space. But when the attraction between them gets to hard to bear will they both give into their attraction.
And will the reason that both of them had such a stressful week at work come back to haunt them as they realise that both of them are linked?
This is a really enjoyable read and I struggled to put it down. I just couldn’t wait until both their secrets came out and see how everything around them would explode when it happened. Definitely recommend!

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Aiko (The Heartstrings Series Book 1) by Brooke May – Review by Karyn Taylor

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AikoAiko by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Aiko is a great fantasy, romantic comedy by Brooke May. It is the first book in the Heartstrings series. Having read, and enjoyed a few other of Brooke May’s books, Aiko was absolutely nothing like what I was expecting. I’m not 100% sure what I was expecting from this book but what I got was definitely not it. Now that doesn’t mean that I’m dissing the book or saying anything bad about it. Not at all. It’s just very different from what I thought I was about to read.
Aiko is a totally fascinating character. She’s a Cupid. A very bad cupid. Everything she does turns into a disaster. Is it any wonder she’s not been allowed to carry out any cupid assignments for 40 years! But now she’s got her first assignment, what could possibly go wrong?? How about everything!!
This is a hilarious romantic comedy that had me laughing out loud so many times. Aiko is so full of good intentions and just wants to be a good cupid but boy does she come up with some crazy ideas to get Alejandro (her assignment) to fall in love with the perfect woman.
This is a great read if you are looking for something light hearted to fill up a few hours. I’m also looking forward to reading about the other cupids, who we got to meet in this book, in the remainder of this series.

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Urban Justice (A Chicago Vigilantes Novel Book 2) by India Kells – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Urban Justice (A Chicago Vigilantes Novel #2)Urban Justice by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Urban Justice is the fantastic 2nd book in the Chicago Vigilantes series by India Kells. I have been a fan of India Kells writing for a couple of years now and was looking forward to the 2nd instalment in this series as I had thoroughly enjoyed the first book. It was no surprise that I adored this book too as I’ve never read anything by India Kells that I did not absolutely love.
India Kells has an amazing knack for writing characters that you can’t help but fall in love with. This was also the case for Sloane and Luke. Sloane is a totally badass ex cop, now vigilante and Luke is the ex marine, professor who just exudes sex appeal. A match made in heaven or hell? Let’s just say that their road to romance is far from a straight, smooth path.
As with other India Kells’ books this had a storyline that grabbed me immediately and had me hooked throughout. It was full of emotion, danger, violence and suspense. I love India Kells’ style of writing and the way that the stories flow so well, taking you on an amazing journey, that as much as you want to know what happens, you just don’t want to get off and Urban Justice is a prime example of that. It really is a great story with amazing characters and I can’t wait to read more of this series to see which vigilante we get to learn more about next.

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The Sound of Silence by Dakota Willink – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Sound of SilenceThe Sound of Silence by Dakota Willink
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Sound Of Silence is an outstanding psychological romantic thriller by Dakota Willink that had me on the edge of my seat throughout. Prior to reading The Sound of Silence I had never read any of Dakota Willink’s work but if this book is anything to go by then I will definitely be reading more.
This book is very dark and the author rightly gives a trigger warning for distressing scenes of abuse. So if you can get past the dark scenes then this book is a fantastic thrilling read. It had me gripped from the very first page, right up to the very end. It is the proverbial ‘page turner’.
Gianna’s life probably looks wonderful to those outside; happily married to the chief of police. This could not be further from the truth. But hey, he’s a policeman, who is she going to tell her story to that will believe her. A chance meeting with a handsome stranger on her wedding day, followed by another chance meeting with the stranger a few years later could be the one thing that changes Gianna’s life.
I absolutely adored the character of Derek. He is the exact opposite of everything Ethan (Gianna’s husband) ever was. He’s patient, caring, loving and gentle and the way he interacts with Gianna has my heart melting.
This book, although very dark in places is a fantastic read. There’s danger, intrigue, evil and violence and then there’s love and compassion and romance. I would definitely recommend this book. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could.

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Gianluca (Marini Family Romance Book 1) by Isabella Cassazza – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Gianluca (Marini Family #1)Gianluca by Isabella Cassazza
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gianluca is an enemies to lovers, office romance which is the first book in the Marini Family series by Isabella Cassazza. I had only read one of Isabella Cassazza’s books before reading this book and I had thoroughly enjoyed it. Incidentally we were introduced to Gianluca in that book and he was not exactly to of my favourite men list. Could he redeem himself in this book?
I have to say that to begin with Gianluca doesn’t do much to redeem himself. He is very driven, arrogant and ruthless and will do whatever it takes to get the promotion at work that he believes he deserves. So let’s just say he’s not the nicest person to Callie when they first meet and start working together. Of course, there is a much nicer Gianluca hiding under the arrogant, hard exterior and it takes the awesome Callie to bring out the nicer side to him.
I loved reading Gianluca and Callie’s story. Their interactions together make for very entertaining reading. Both are fantastic characters and are very well written. In addition, the secondary characters add so much to this story, in particular Gianluca’s sister Francesca and Signore Ravelli.
As this series is based around the Marini family, of which there are 6 siblings, I can’t wait for more in this series to see what Isabella Cassazza has in store for them. I’m looking forward to Francesca’s story in particular.

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Secure Boxed Set: Chase Security Series Books 1-3 by R.L. Dunn – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Secure Boxed Set (Chase Security #1-3)Secure Boxed Set by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Have you ever wished you could erase your memory of reading a book or set of books so you could read them again for the first time and get hit with all those feels for the first time? Well, that’s how I feel about the books in the Secure Boxed Set by R.L. Dunn. Bafore reading the books in this box set I had never read any of R.L. Dunn’s work but these books have made me completely fall in love with her writing.
The Secure Boxed Set contains the 3 full length novels that are:
Secure Desire – Ian and Cassie’s story
Secure Again – Martin and Elizabeth (Beth)’s story
Secure Heart – Julian and Holly’s story.

All three of these books completely gripped me from the very beginning, took me on the most amazing roller coaster journey before spitting me out at the very end wondering what the hell I’d just gone through.

If I had to pick a favourite, which is a very, very difficult job as I absolutely adores all three books and all 3 couples, I’d have to pick Secure Heart for one main reason. That reason being that adorable little girl Sadie who totally stole my heart (and Julian’s). Holly’s sick little girl had me in tears so many times. Yeah, I‘d better add a tissues needed warning for this particular book. This little girls outlook on life (and her own possible death) will totally tear at your heartstrings.

In addition to being romance novels, these books are so much more. The danger, intrigue, drama and action with have you totally gripped and not wanting to put these books down.

This is a MUST read boxed set!!

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Love Heels!: The TV news business can be murder (PJ Santini Series Book Three) by Lynne Russell – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Love Heels! The TV news business can be murderLove Heels! The TV news business can be murder by Lynne Russell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Love Heels is a really good private eye story by Lynne Russell. It is the third book in the PJ Santini Series. I had not read any work by this author before and I wish I had read the previous two books in this series as I felt a little lost at the beginning as if I needed more information.
I have to admit that due to this it took me a bit to get into this book but once I did I really enjoyed it. PJ Santini is a tv investigative report who also works as a private eye. Once I got to know her I absolutely adored her as a character. She’s beautiful, confident and sassy and absolutely everything that I’m not. She’s just the type of woman that you want to be.
One thing I adored is her family. The scenes that contained her family are my favourites in the book. There is so much humour in them that I laughed so much. One thing I love in a book is when the secondary characters add value to the story and are not just there to make up the numbers and this is certainly the case with this book.
Add to all of this, the case that she’s working on really keeps the reader engaged and you are desperate to know how it all works out.
I really enjoyed this book and would definitely read more of PJ Santini in the future.

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Unwrapped by Evelyn Sola – Review by Karyn Taylor

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UnwrappedUnwrapped by Evelyn Sola
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Unwrapped is a great contemporary BWWM romance by Evelyn Sola. Having not previously read any of Evelyn Sola’s work, I was unsure what to expect but the blurb of this book had me very intrigued and I just had to give this book a chance. What I got was a book that totally grabbed me and had me totally engaged with the story right up to the very end. This is a really great story that I’m sure will be enjoyed by many.
When 36 year old Nick Bain takes over his uncle’s business while he convalesces the last thing he expects is to become smitten with the gorgeous 23 year old daughter of one of his employees. An employee who absolutely hares him with a passion.
Miranda’s mum cannot stand her new boss and boy do her family know this! So how will Miranda cope when she meets and falls for said boss. Let me add that this book is very steamy!!
I loved this story. There is so much humour coming the way of Miranda’s mum. Believe me, you are left in no doubt just exactly how much she hates Nick. Her constant rants had my laughing along with this book.
I loved both the characters of Nick and Miranda and the way that the author dealt with their mixed race relationship and the age gap between them. The story is very well written and flows well, keeping the reader engaged throughout.
I look forward to reading more from Evelyn Sola.

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High Heels And Mistletoe (Kisses Under The Mistletoe) by C.A. King, USA Today Bestselling Author – Review by Karyn Taylor

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High Heels And MistletoeHigh Heels And Mistletoe by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

High Heels and Mistletoe is a great Christmas holiday romance novel from C.A. King. I have read a few of C.A. King’s book but all of those were from the paranormal/fantasy genre, so I was a new experience for me. I already knew that I was in for a great story as C.A. King is a great storyteller. I’m glad to say that I was right as I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
Julietta is frantic as she normally goes on vacation at Christmas due to her allergy to mistletoe, however this year she’s in the middle of working on a huge deal and her boss wont let her away until this is signed and sealed. This makes for some very amusing scenes as Julietta comes close to mistletoe. Unlike some allergies which make you sneeze or come out in spots, mistletoe makes Julietta extremely clumsy. Her first meeting with the new client is made even better as he’s giving out mistletoe (along with his phone number) to pretty ladies to hopefully get a date for the family Christmas party.
I’m sure you can imagine how amusing that scene would be. Add that to many other humerous scenes between these two as their attraction to one another grows and you are in for a great book which will keep you engaged from the very beginning right up to the very end.
A bit of romance and humour, then add in Christmas and you get the recipe for a great book that I’d recommend others read.

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At Last (The Adams Brothers BOOK 1) by Mindy McKinley – Review by Karyn Taylor

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At Last (Adams Brothers, #1)At Last by Mindy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

At Last is the first book in the Adams Brothers Series by Mindy McKinley. This was the first time that I had read any work by this author and judging by how much I really enjoyed At Last, it certainly won’t be the last time. At Last is a really great contemporary romance.
Lula Stanley and Dominic Adams have been colleagues for three years, both of them teachers at the same high school. Whereas Dominic has never taken any notice of the quiet literature teacher, Lula and everyone with a set of working eyes have noticed the gorgeous Dominic Adams. When Dominic goes to a jazz bar with his brother and sees Lula perform he sees a whole different side to her and boy, is he smitten.
I really enjoyed this book, it has you engaged from the very opening paragraph and keeps you engaged with a great storyline throughout the whole book.
One thing I also loved about this book is the way that both Lula and Dominic embraced their jobs as teachers. To them it was far more than just a job, it was a true vocation. Their love for teaching and their pupils shone through.
As well as loving both Lula and Dominic, I also loved the additional characters in this book. The camaraderie between Dominic and his brothers is great to read and I can’t wait to get more of this when we get the stories of his brothers.

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The Sanctuary Chronicles Box Set – Book 1-3 + Novella by India Kells – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Sanctuary Chronicles Box Set - Book 1-3 + NovellaThe Sanctuary Chronicles Box Set – Book 1-3 + Novella by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Sanctuary Chronicles Box Set by India Kells contains three full length novels and 1 novella. They are:
Broken Magic – full length
Blind Magic – full length
Dead Magic – full length
Hidden Magic – novella

I have been a fan of India Kells writing for a couple of years now but had never read any of her paranormal work until now. OMG I was seriously missing out on some amazing writing! I’m so glad that I chose to read this box set as I absolutely loved it.

The one thing I loved most about this box set are the characters. The characters are totally kickass and I loved them so much. I keep changing my mind on who my favourite couple are, who my favourite female is and who my favourite male is. Each time I read a new book, that book’s characters became my new favourite.

As well as the romance aspect of these books (BTW these books are hot and sexy!) the drama that unfolds through each story is so well written. We have shifters, werewolves, vampires, witches and just about every other type of being imaginable. Add in some murder, mystery, intrigue, curses etc and you get a set of amazing stories that will have you gripped from the very beginning and keep you tight in their jaws before spitting you out at the very end wondering what the hell you’ve just experienced.

If you love a paranormal romance then The Sanctuary Chronicles needs to be next on your TBR list.

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A Merry Texan Christmas (The Prentice Brothers of Sweet Ridge Book 3) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Karyn Taylor

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A Merry Texan Christmas (Prentice Brothers of Sweet Ridge, #3)A Merry Texan Christmas by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Merry Texan Christmas is the 3rd book in the Prentice Brothers of Sweet Ridge series by Nicole Flockton. Each book focuses on a different brother and contains a full story, therefore each book in the series can be read as a standalone. I have read several of Nicole Flockton’s book so far, including the 2nd book in this series and I’ve always enjoyed them. This book carried on the tradition as I thoroughly enjoyed this book too.
As the title suggests there is a Christmas theme to this book and it plays a very large part in the storyline, particularly as the heroine of the story Maggie is called Miss Christmas by the residents of Sweet Ridge. When baseball star Trey Prentice retires and moves home to Sweet Ridge is he about to steal her title from her and become Mr Christmas?
I loved the characters of Maggie and Trey. Maggie is super sweet and adores her role as Miss Christmas. Trey is also a super sweet character. His little gestures of hot chocolate and donuts for Maggie shows a more vulnerable side to his character. Added to the adorable characters is Chester, Maggie’s adorable pup who she dresses in matching Christmas outfits to match her own.
This book is a great read and as it’s not a very long book I managed to devour it in a few hours. I would definitely recommend this book.

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The Opposite of Addie: A Novel (Friendship & Secrets) by Julie C. Gardner – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Opposite of AddieThe Opposite of Addie by Julie C. Gardner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Opposite of Addie is a great second chance romance story from Julie C. Gardner. I had not read any of this author’s work before reading this book so was unsure of what to expect from it. I do however, love a second chance romance and was willing to give this book a chance. I’m glad that I took this chance as this is a really great book.
I will say that I took a bit of getting into this book but once I got into it, I was really hooked and couldn’t wait to see how the story panned out. The Opposite of Addie is the story of Addie, mother to 11 year old Josie who randomly bumps into Josie’s father Jake who is unaware of Josie’s existence. What we then get is a great story as Jake fights to get back into Addie’s life and get to know his daughter and Addie’s own personal battles since the death of her author mother the year before and her own relationship with her father.
What was different about this book is that it’s told from the point of view of 5 different people: Addie, Jake, Josie, Addie’s father and Addie’s best friend Nina. I actually really enjoyed reading the POV of 11 year old Josie. I loved her outlook on what was going on in her life and her thoughts of the people around her.
One strength of this author is writing fantastic characters. I loved reading about Jake, Addie and Josie. All are really great and realistic characters that the reader can engage with. This is a great story that I’m sure many others would enjoy if they gave it a chance. I’m glad that I took the chance on it.

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Grumbler’s Ride (Satan’s Devils MC San Diego #2) by Manda Mellett – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Grumbler's Ride (Satan's Devils MC San Diego #2)Grumbler’s Ride by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Grumbler’s Ride is the 2nd book in the Satan’s Devils MC San Diego Chapter. I first started reading Manda Mellett’s work with the original Satan’s Devils MC chapter and have been a huge fan of her Satan’s Devils MC books ever since. It totally amazes me how she can come up with new and amazing stories each time.
In this book we have the story of Grumbler and Mary. One thing I loved so much about this book is that Grumbler is in his 50’s and Mary is 47. On my next birthday I hit the dreaded 50 and I love that Manda Mellett has chosen to write a romance for the older character. It makes such a change from the usual 20 and early 30 somethings that we get in most romance novels. I loved that we get characters who no longer have perfect bodies and can still be sexy. It gives hope for us oldies who have far from perfect bodies.
I think I say this in every review I write for Manda Mellett’s books but I love that in addition to the romance there is always a fantastic storyline running through the book that has the reader hooked just as much as the romance and this book is no different. The storyline running through this book is quite dark at times and can make for difficult reading but Manda Mellett does an amazing jobs as always for making it such compelling reading. I was totally hooked and did not want to put this book down.
I absolutely adore the men (and women) of the Satan’s Devils and can’t wait to see what Manda Mellett has in store to delight us with next. I will definitely be reading it.

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Big City Heat: A High-Rise Romance Anthology (A Steamy Contemporary Romance Box Set) – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Big City Heat: A High-Rise Romance AnthologyBig City Heat: A High-Rise Romance Anthology by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Big City Heat Anthology is a collection of 12 fantastic steamy, contemporary romance stories from an amazing collection of authors.
This collection includes:
“The 57th Floor” by Hazel Storm
“A Hole” by Phoebe Alexander
“Asylum Club” by Aidy Award
“44th & Blue” by Jodi Payne
“Global City Tryst” by Maida Malby
“Felling Bechet” by Stella Williams
‘The Wolf of Wall Street” by Lucy Eden
“Make Me Beg” by Moni Boyce
“Courtney” by Jayce Ellis
“The Glass Tower” by Emily Gray
“The Right Note” by Bree Kraemer
I am not going to review all 12 stories as I’d be here for hours but instead have chosen to review my personal favourite from them and that is A Hole by Phoebe Alexander. I’ve been a huge fan of Phoebe Alexander’s work for a couple of years now and just knew that I was going to love reading A Hole.
The ‘A’ in A Hole is Ace, a comedian who has a massive crush on the bank teller in the building he works in but the thing is her friends has told her he’s an A hole! But is he really?
This is a funny, hot steamy romance that I’m sure you’ll love if that’s the kind of book you enjoy. It is a novella so it’s not a long drawn out story. It’s fast and flows well and I can guarantee that you’ll be hooked to Ace and Ella’s story.

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Kismet Heart: A Protector Romance (A Surviving Love Novel Book 1) by Brinda Berry – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Kismet Heart: A Protector Romance (A Surviving Love Novel Book 1)Kismet Heart: A Protector Romance by Brinda Berry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kismet Heart is the first book in the Surviving Love series by Brinda Berry. I had never read any of this author’s work before reading this book so was unsure of what to expect from this book but I liked what I had read in the blurb so was willing to give it a try. I’m really glad that I decided to take a chance on this book as I really enjoyed it.
Malerie Toombs was the only survivor of a bombing as a child and has lived a very sheltered life as she has been too anxious to go out. On her 18th Birthday her Uncle is murdered at her birthday dinner and her guardian hires Ace Sloan as her security as she is now a very wealthy heiress.
I love both the characters of Malerie and Ace. Ace is confident and knows what he wants whereas Malerie is very anxious and struggles with going out. It’s great to see Malerie bloom into a slightly more confident person as the story progresses.
As well as the budding romance between Ace and Malerie this book has so much angst, danger and intrigue. The story is very well written and flows very well and the characters are very realistic and believable.
As this is just the first book in this series, I’m really looking forward to seeing what Brinda Berry has in store for us in the rest of this series.

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The Lies Between Us: A Psychic Romantic Suspense (Deadly Secrets Book 4) by Cynthia Cooke – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Lies Between Us: Deadly Secrets Book 4The Lies Between Us: Deadly Secrets Book 4 by Cynthia Cooke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Lies Between Us is the 4th Book in the Deadly Secrets series by Cynthia Cooke. Each book in the series can be read as a stand alone. I had not read any of the previous books in this series before this one and didn’t feel that I was missing any necessary information. In fact I had not read any of this author’s work before and was not sure what to expect from it but I did enjoy this book.
This is a romantic suspense novel which had me engaged in the story from the very beginning right up to the end. I really enjoyed the storyline and really liked the characters. Both of the main characters, Tom and Cat are realistic and likeable and I enjoyed reading their story and was intrigued as to how their story was going to turn out. As well as the main characters, there is a great secondary cast that really do add to the story.
This book is very much action packed. It’s full of danger and intrigue. There’s FBI, drug cartels, kidnapping, secrets and lies. The action starts form the very beginning and continues at a fast pace right up to the end. If you like an action packed story then I’d definitely recommend this book to you.

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The Fire God Tour (Moore Family Saga Book 3) by Michele Sims – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Fire God Tour (Moore Family Saga)The Fire God Tour by Michele Sims
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Fire God Tour is a fantastic paranormal romance by Michele Sims. It is the 3rd book in the Moore Family Series. This was the first time I had read any of Michele Sims work so was unsure what to expect from this book.
What I got was fantastic characters and a storyline that I was gripped to from the very beginning. What I also got was a huge shock as I didn’t realise that this was a paranormal book and the first time that there was paranormal activity in the book, I had to read it a few times to make sure of what I was reading – oops!
Although this is the third book in a series this book can be read as a stand-alone. I hadn’t read any of the previous books in this series and could follow and understand the storyline without feeling that anything major was missing. I do, however, now want to go back and read the books that come before The Fire God Tour.
Ari (Miles) is a fantastic character to read. He has so many different facets to him. I could read about him all day long. I also adored Bella and loved the interactions between the two of them, reading Bella’s angst at her growing feelings for Hip-Hop sensation Miles.
This book is a fantastic paranormal romance and if that is your kind of thing then I’d definitely recommend this book.

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Love Surreptitiously by Tarrah Anders – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Love SurreptitiouslyLove Surreptitiously by Tarrah Anders
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love Surreptitiously is a great contemporary romance by Tarrah Anders. I had previously read a few of Tarrah Anders novels and had enjoyed them so was looking forward to more great writing, characters and storyline in this book. I’m glad to say that I got it. This is a really great read.
When a chance meeting on a train on the way home from work sparks interest from both sides, Sidney Matthews and Quinlan Montgomery both brush it aside as they will likely never see each other again. So what happens when they both go to work the next day and discover that Quinlan (Quinn) is Sidney’s new boss?
I thoroughly enjoyed Quinn and Sidney’s story. Their clandestine meetings to try and keep their growing relationship a secret from her friends and colleagues at work. There are some funny moments when they are almost caught in a compromising position.
This book is not all fun and games though, as the path to true love never runs smoothly. Will the secret that Quinn is keeping be just too much for Sidney to deal with? What will happen at work when their secret finally gets out? I definitely recommend that you read this book to get the answers. You will not be disappointed!

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Playing Series 3 Book Set by Stephanie Queen – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Playing Series 3 Book SetPlaying Series 3 Book Set by Stephanie Queen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Playing Series 3 book set contains the first 3 books in the Playing Series by Stephanie Queen. I wrongly assumed that this was a trilogy of books containing one couple’s story. That’s what I get for reading the blurb of the first book and liking it then deciding to read the set and not looking at the rest of the blurb. What you actually get is 3 full complete stories of 3 fantastic couples. This set contains the following:
Playing for the Money – Cat and Hunter’s story
Playing for Love – Gabe and Mia’s story
Playing for Keeps – Tata and Chloe’s story

I had never previously read any of Stephanie Queen’s work but I love a sports romance and liked the look of the blurb of book 1 and so decided to give this set of books a chance. I am so glad that I took a chance on this set as I absolutely loved all 3 books. I don’t think I can pick a favourite. All 3 are very different stories but all great engaging entertaining reads. Each book had me hooked from the very beginning and kept me going until the very end. I really didn’t want to put these books down. The proverbial page turner!

The author has produced excellent, relatable, realistic characters that you can’t help but fall in love with and great storylines that keep you entertained from beginning to end, so If you love great sports romances. Or even just great romances where the sexy times are HOT then this set of 3 books is a MUST read.

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Spicetopia Boxed Set (Books 1-4) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Spicetopia Boxed Set (Books #1-4)Spicetopia Boxed Set by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you have ever read any of Phoebe Alexander’s books then you will know that you are in for an amazing treat getting 4 of them all in the one box set. If you haven’t read any of her work yet, then please believe me that you are in for an amazing treat with these 4 books.
This box set contains the 4 full length novels:
Sugar & Spice (Cy and Jolie’s story)
Virtue & Vice (Moon and Katja’s story)
Fire & Ice (Neve and Enya’s story)
Naughty & Nice ( Micah and Natalie’s story)

Each book contains the story of one couple but I’d definitely suggest that you read them in order to help the overall story flow better.
The whole idea of Spicetopia is dreamt up in the first book and the theme park takes shape over the remaining books as well as couples from previous books return so you would get possible spoilers of read out of order.

In true Phoebe Alexander style these books are smoking HOT! If you like things a little racy in the bedroom then these books will be right up your street. If you are up for a bit of kink or BDSM then these are most definitely the books for you. One added bonus is that when you get to the end and wonder what on earth you are going to read next, there is actually a 5th book in the series Dares & Dice to tempt you even further.

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Reign (The Larussio Legacy Book 3) by Via Mari – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Reign The Larussio LegacyReign The Larussio Legacy by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Reign is the 3rd instalment in the Larussio Legacy series by Via Mari. This book is not intended to be read as a stand-alone and the series should be read in order. I first discovered Via Mari’s excellent writing with the first book in the Billionaire Bodyguards series and have been a huge fan ever since.
Via Mari has a great skill for writing dominant alpha males and Gio is a prime example of this. He is totally dominant in the bedroom and an ultimate alpha male out of the bedroom. He loves fiercely and is insanely loyal both. I absolutely adore Gio. Serena is perfect for Gio in every way. She is totally submissive in the bedroom but is sassy, feisty and far from submissive outside of the bedroom. She is so not scared to say exactly what she is thinking.
This book is extremely fast paced and is filled with so much drama. As a high up member of the mafia, Gio has many enemies and they want to hurt him in the hardest way and that is by taking his woman. Serena is in constant danger and Via Mari does a fantastic job of keeping the reader gripped to this story. There is constantly something going on that keeps you on your toes.
I love that you also get to be reacquainted with those from her other series as the characters are all interlinked. Cannot wait to see what alpha males and submissive women that Via Mari brings to life for us readers next.

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Love On The Ropes (Love In Action Book 1) by Aviva Vaughn – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Love On The Ropes (Love in Action, #1)Love On The Ropes by Aviva Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love On The Ropes is the first book in the Love In Action series by Aviva Vaughn. I’ve read a few books by this author before and have thoroughly enjoyed them so I had high hopes for this one. Thankfully, this is a great book and I thoroughly enjoyed this one too.
28 year old Erin Hung moved to LA from Hawaii 4 years previously and is loving her job doing marketing for a major radio station’s breakfast show. Her life changes when the show gets a new host. Clint Davenport is a former Topgun pilot and is now the host of the show. On an activity week organised by the radio station the two are pushed close together and both realise that there could be something between them.
I totally loved both of these characters. Erin has no fears when it comes to the activities but has many when it comes to her heart and her personal life. Clint comes across as the perfect man with no fears but actually has a lot going on that he keeps to himself.
The story is very easy to read and flows well, it has great characters and the plot is good which keeps the reader engaged and want to keep reading to see what that author has planned for Clint and Erin.
Definitely recommend.

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Self Made (Freshwater BOOK 2) by Belinda Williams – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Self Made (Freshwater Book 2)Self Made by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Self Made is the 2nd book in the Freshwater series by Belinda Williams. Each book can be read as a stand-alone but the characters from the other books are re-occurring. I hadn’t read any of Belinda Williams’ work until I read book 1 in this great series, which I thoroughly enjoyed, so I was looking forward to reading more of this series. I’m so glad to say that I was not left disappointed.
I loved Jessica when we met her in Between The Lines and it was so good to get inside her head and really get to know her. We also get to meet Ant in Between the Lines and I couldn’t wait to see what mischief he would get up to. Well, the guy is a comedian. I have to say that I laughed a lot during this book. Ant’s antics when he’s first introduced to exercise is hilarious. He’s such a great character to read, you just can’t help but love him.
This is a fast flowing story that I did not want to put down. It definitely fits the description of a ‘page turner’. The storyline is great and the characters are very likeable and realistic.
I loved getting to see Kat and Matt again and also Em whose story we are getting next. Now that is one story I can’t wait to read.

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THE PATIENCE OF KARMA (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery #5) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Patience of KarmaThe Patience of Karma by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Patience Of Karma is the th5 book in the excellent Madeline Dawkins series by Cynthia Hamilton. Each book in the series can be read as a stand-alone. The Madeline Dawkins series is a collection of extremely well written detective stories that are captivating and you won’t want to put down.
In this 5th book, Madeline and Mike are now married and are happier than they have been in a long time but is one of their new cases about to cause a rift to their new marital bliss? Madeline and Mike have 3 new cases and have a lot on their plate.
I loved that their assistant Samir had a much bigger role in this book and hope we will continue to see more of him.
As with the previous books in this series, this book grips you straight way and keeps you gripped throughout. This book is very well written and the story is intricate and flows along well, keeping the reader highly engaged. I’m sure I’ve said in reviews of previous books in this series but I’m amazed at how well Cynthia Hamilton writes such intricate storylines and she’s done it again with The Patience Of Karma.
I’m a huge fan of this series and hope that Cynthia Hamilton keeps it going as I love reading about Madeline and Mike.

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