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IRRESISTIBLE – FALL INTO ROMANCE (Irresistible Romance Book 5) Anthology – Review by Karyn Taylor

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IRRESISTIBLE - FALL INTO ROMANCE (Irresistible Romance Book 5)IRRESISTIBLE – FALL INTO ROMANCE by Tamara Ferguson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This Irresistible – Fall Into Romance anthology is a collection of Stories by 8 amazing authors: Tamara Ferguson, Natalie Ann Suzanne Jenkins, Cynthia Cooke, Alicia Street, Jen Talty, Angela Stevens and Patrice Wilton. I love when a new one of these anthologies comes out as I get to read some great authors all wrapped up in one neat package.
One think I love mot about these anthologies is that they usually contain a book by Tamara Ferguson who has become a favourite of mine over the last year or so.
The offering from Tamara Ferguson in this anthology is Two Hearts Truce. I have now read several of the Two Hearts books and I am a huge fan of them. This one was no different as I was hooked from the beginning as it started with a flashback to another Two Hearts couple that I adored in Christine and Jeremy Northrup.
The hero couple in this book are Jeremy’s sister Amanda and his sergeant Jeff. I loved reading this second chance romance. Amanda is an amazing character trying to come to terms with a horrific event from her past and is scared of getting into a relationship. Jeff is an amazing guy and the support he gives Amanda is second to none, I just adored him.
This is just one great read in this anthology. We are totally spoiled for choice in getting 8 great reads to occupy the autumn evenings.

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Kickflip Summer by Danielle Jacks – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Kickflip SummerKickflip Summer by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kickflip Summer is a sweet romance novel from Danielle Jacks. I had never read any of this author’s work before so I was unsure what to expect. What I got was an enjoyable read with characters that I really liked and could relate to.
Kara has just finished school and is looking for a summer of fun with best friend Toby before heading off to college. What she doesn’t expect is to meet up again with Bear (Julian) who had been her niece’s skateboarding coach.
I really enjoyed reading Kara and Bear’s story. It’s obvious straight away that they both like each other but both have stuff going on in their personal lives and a relationship isn’t what either had in mind.
Kara and Bear are both great characters and a loved them both. I have to admit to not being a fan of Toby. I know he is Kara’s best friend but I didn’t like the way that he treated her at times, especially where Bear was concerned, although I expect that this is what the author had in mind.
Running through the story is a storyline about family and how important your family is. I also really enjoyed this added storyline and have to add that I loved Kara’s family. They were so supportive of her.
Overall I really enjoyed this sweet romance story.

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Rock Star on the Verge (Rogue Series Book 9) by Lara Ward Cosio – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Rock Star on the Verge (Rogue Series #9)Rock Star on the Verge by Lara Ward Cosio
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rock Star on The Verge is the 9th book in the Rogue Series by Lara Ward Cosio. This series is set around Irish rock band Rogue, the band members and their families. I had read a couple of the earlier books in the series, those with Danny Boy’s story and really enjoyed them and was looking forward to reading another book in this great series.
This book is a bit different in that the romantic element totally takes a back seat, the book is much more of a coming of age story for Donal and a re-evaluation of life for Conor. I hadn’t read the books with Conor’s story but I really loved getting to know him in this book. It was hard reading about him struggling with depression after the death of his father after losing my own father to Covid recently but could totally understand what he was going through.
I absolutely loved the camaraderie between Donal and Conor as they went on their journey, literally and figuratively. Donal has always hero worshipped Conor and I loved reading about him getting to see the real Conor.
Another thing that I really loved about this book was seeing the other Rogue guys and their families again. There is such a great bond between them all and the support they give each other is fantastic (as are the put-downs they give each other too).
I really enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to anyone considering reading it.

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That Incredible Kiss (Kissed By Fate 3) By Tamara Ferguson – Review by Karyn Taylor

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THAT INCREDIBLE KISS (Kissed By Fate Book 3)THAT INCREDIBLE KISS by Tamara Ferguson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

That Incredible Kiss is the third book in the Kissed By Fate series by Tamara Ferguson. Each book in the series can be read as a standalone and contains a complete story. I have read the 2 previous books in the series and many of the Wounded Warrior books, all of which are set in the town of Crystal Rock and have become a huge fan of her work.
I love Tamara Ferguson’s style of writing and have loved every book of hers that I have read and That Incredible Kiss was no different in that I absolutely loved it. It’s always great to be back visiting Crystal Rock and the Dragonfly Pointe Inn. There have been so many amazing characters come from these stories and I loved reading about 2 new characters Ashley and Brian.
That Incredible Kiss is a fantastic second chance romance. Brian and Ashley got together at the very end of high school but then were forced apart. Now it’s 10 years later and they are both back in Crystal Rock.
I loved reading Ashley and Brian’s story. As with all the books set in Crystal Rock, there is so much more going on than just the romance story and there is a great storyline going on along with the romance between Brian and Ashley. Like the other books by Tamara Ferguson that I have read, I was totally hooked on this book from the very beginning and did not want to put it down.
100% recommend!

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Secure Heart (Chase Security Series #3) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Secure Heart (Chase Security Series Book 3)Secure Heart by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Secure Heart is the 3rd book in the fantastic Chase Security Series by R.L. Dunn. Each book in the series could be read as a standalone but I would recommend them all, and doing so in order as previous events are mentioned and may make more sense if you have read the previous books. Added to the fact that they are all fantastic books then I’m sure it would be no hardship to read them all.
We got to know a bit about Julian Dupart in the 2nd book Secure Again and I’m so glad that R.L. Dunn chose to give him his own book as I was interested to find out more about this intriguing man. We really get to know Julian throughout this book and I absolutely loved this man. He’s super smart and a total whizz at his job but we get to see so much more of Julian and discover that he has a heart of gold.
His leading lady in this book is Holly Dupree Morrison and I adored her too. She’s had a horrible life so far and will do absolutely anything to protect her adorable daughter Sadie. I must add that Sadie absolutely stole my heart. She is the most adorable child ever and had me in tears at a few points with her whole outlook on life (and death).
As with the previous books in the series there’s so much more than the romance story going on and in Secure Heart the storyline running alongside the romance is dark and dangerous and very entertaining. I was really gripped by the story and did not want to put this book down.
I desperately hope that R.L. Dunn choses to write more about the Chase Security team.

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Finding His Zen by Tammy Mannersly – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Finding His ZenFinding His Zen by Tammy Mannersly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Finding His Zen is a great short read by Tammy Mannersly. I had read another of Tammy Mannersly’s books recently (Drawn To Him) and really enjoyed it, so was looking forward to reading more of her work. Although Finding his Zen is just over 100 pages, the author has packed a great story into those 100 paged and I really enjoyed this book.
Finding His Zen is a small town romance. When top swimmer Sebastian DuMont comes back to his home town to open a new leisure centre his thoughts of retiring and moving home are increased when he meets the lovely owner of the centre, Zenia Andino and is totally taken with her. She’s already a huge fan of his having had had posters on her wall as a teenager.
Needless to say many obstacles are put in the way of the 2 of them trying to start a relationship with each other. In particular Sebastian’s horrid manager who I totally despised throughout the book and also Zenia’s sister who I also was not a fan of at all both were massive obstacles to Seb and Zen having their HEA.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved Seb and Zen. Both are great characters that you can’t help but totally adore and want everything to work out for the pair.
This was a great short read that I devoured in about 90 minutes and did not put down until I was finished.

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Accepted (Rhodes Family Book 2) by Lisa Wood – Review by Karyn Taylor

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AcceptedAccepted by Lisa Wood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Accepted by Lisa Wood is the 2nd book in the Rhodes Family series by Lisa Wood. This is definitely a book for the 18+ age group due to the adult content. The author request this series should be read in order to get the best enjoyment from it.
One thing I have to say about this series is that if you read book 1 ‘Shattered’ it contains many spoilers for what happens in Accepted. In fact the outcome of Accepted is given away but this didn’t stop me from reading Accepted as I was so intrigued as to how that outcome came about and after reading the prologue to this book, I was even more intrigued as to how this ending happened.
In Accepted we get the story of Ava, sister of Gabriel from the first book. Ava is also a lawyer and senior partner in the family law firm and she knows what she wants but there are just somethings she’s not sure of how to get that. That being, her friendship back with Thomas and Hunter who were her best friends for a very long time. An event several years previously had broken up this very tight knit friendship and now Hunter has decided it’s time to get his best friends back. Is it too late so salvage what they had before? Can they all forgive each other and move forward?
I loved this story and was hooked from the very beginning. I couldn’t help but root for Hunter and his quest to put to rights all that had gone before and get this trio back to the way they used to be and move forward.
I look forward to reading more about the Rhodes family siblings.

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The Dating Itinerary by Brooke Williams – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Dating ItineraryThe Dating Itinerary by Brooke Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Dating Itinerary is a great Enemies-To-Lovers romance novel from Brooke Williams. I had never previously read any of this author’s work but I love an enemies-to-lovers romance so thought I would give this a go. I’m so glad that I chose to read this book as I really enjoyed it.
Penny Coyne is writing a column about different methods of dating for the magazine she works for. When attending a speed dating event she meets her ex colleague, and rival, George who is carrying out the same activity.
I loved reading Penny and George’s story. Their initial meetings are hilarious as Penny does not hold back on her dislike for George, even though her body is saying something different. The chemistry soon builds and they both realise that they don’t want to find a significant other through their dating as they want each other.
One thing I loved about this book is that the author gets across the dangers of dating as well as the highlights. This book does not make dating out to be all fun and games. The much darker side of dating is well documented and treated in a great manner by the author. This book is definitely worth a read.

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Rookie Moves: A Quick Snap Novella by Tarrah Anders – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Rookie MovesRookie Moves by Tarrah Anders
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rookie Moves: A Quick Snap Novella by Tarrah Anders is part of Kristen Proby’s With Me In Seattle Universe. At only 99 pages it’s a great quick read that I devoured in just over an hour. I have previously read, and enjoyed, other books by Tarrah Anders and I love a sports star romance so was looking forward to reading Rookie Moves. Although it was over too quickly, I really did enjoy this novella.
Grant Toolson is the bad boy rookie at Seattle and needs to get his bad boy behaviour under control. While attending events to give him a better profile he meets the Mayors daughter, Emily Masterson. Let’s just say that Emily is not the prim and proper girl that she has to portray herself as. Will she lead Grant into even more trouble?
I loved the camaraderie between Grant and Emily. I loved reading the escapades that the two of them got up to and there was usually some danger involved.
Even in such a short book, the path to true love never runs smooth and Grant and Emily find out some disturbing news which could being their budding relationship to a quick end. Will their feelings for each other be enough to keep them together? Have a read and find out. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.

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Secure Again (Chase Security Series #2) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Secure Again (Chase Security Series Book 2)Secure Again by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Secure Again is the 2nd book in the fantastic Chase Security series by R.L. Dunn. Dunn was new to me when I started reading this series but I’m sure I will continue to read their work as this series has been excellent so far. Each of the books in this series can be read as a standalone but I would advise starting from the first book and reading them all in order. This is more relevant when reading the third book (which I’ve just started) as there is some mention of what had gone on before in book 2, I also advise this purely as this is a fantastic series and I think that others would have a great deal of enjoyment from reading all of the books.
At just under 500 pages this is quite a long book but it is fast paced and very action packed and will have you totally engrossed and not want to put this book down. There is so much danger, mystery and intrigue that totally grabs you from the get do and just doesn’t let you go.
I absolutely adored the 2 main characters in this book, Martin and Elizabeth, and was totally invested in their story. This is a second chance romance for them and they totally deserve a HEA but the author does not let this come easily for them. They are both really put through the mill on the way.
I only have 1 thing about this book that is a very slight negative. There is a very large cast of characters and I found myself at times struggling to remember who were the ‘good guys’ and who were the ‘bad guys’. It’s a very minor issue and certainly did not reduce my enjoyment of this book.

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Just One Song (Just One… Book 2) by Lynn Stevens – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Just One SongJust One Song by Lynn Stevens
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just One Song is the 2nd book in the Just One series by Lynn Stevens. Each book can be read as a standalone and contains one complete story. I had not read the first book in this series Just One Summer and did not feel that I was missing any important information. This is the first time that I have read any of this author’s work and I’m glad I chose to take a chance on a new author to me as I really enjoyed this book very much.
Hero of the book is Dylan Walker, son of famous singer Hank Walker and our heroine is Cami Harris who has been chosen as one of the back-up singers for his dad’s band for the summer.
I really enjoyed reading Cami and Dylan’s story. I loved watching their friendship grow and then them struggling with their growing feelings for each other. Both are great characters who are very believable and likeable, unlike Dylan’s father Hank who is a very nasty character. I always say that one of the things that makes a good author for me, is the ability to make me really hate the bad guy and believe me, I HATED Hank.
It’s also very much a coming of age story for Cami. Her dream is to become a singer but that would mean moving away and with things being so difficult at home, she’s very confused as to how she can live her dream but also give her family the support they need. She’s an amazing character just wants to do the right thing for everyone around her. I really enjoyed reading her story.

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I’ll See You Again: A Scottish rock star, standalone opposites-attract romance (Reigning Hearts Book 4) by K.G. Fletcher – Review by Karyn Taylor

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I'll See You Again (Reigning Hearts, #4)I’ll See You Again by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ll See You Again is the 4th book in the Reigning Hearts series by K.G. Fletcher. Each book is written as a standalone although sometimes characters from previous books do make an appearance. I first became a fan of K.G. Fletcher when I read the Southern Promises series, which I highly recommend too.
In this book we have the story of Nicky Sinclair, friend of Fiona and Chris from the previous book in the series, who runs a wedding planning business. The hero of the story is Scottish award winning musician Reid MacPherson (Mac).
As a fellow Scot, although from Glasgow, I loved that K.G. Fletcher used many Scottish words in this book. I have to applaud her and thank her for making me laugh so much when used the word ‘bawbag’. Believe me this is not a term of endearment. A ‘baw’ is a ball so bawbag is literally ballbag ie scrotum, as the author tells us in the book. For a Scot to read this term being used is just so hilarious. – yes we are amused by the silliest little things!
But with all the hilarity there is also tragedy and heartbreak and this book, as with all the others in this series, left me in severe need of tissues. K.G. Fletcher just knows exactly how to bring out every emotion in you and it’s one of the reasons that I love her work so much. That, and her amazing ability to write such wonderful characters that you can’t help but fall head over heels in love with.
I would definitely give this book more than 5 stars if I was allowed to!

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Shattered: Rhodes Family Book 1 by Lisa Wood – Review by Karyn Taylor

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ShatteredShattered by Lisa Wood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shattered is the first book that I have ever read by Lisa Wood but it certainly won’t be the last. Shattered is the first book in the Rhodes Family series. There are 6 Rhodes siblings, 4 male and 2 female and I’d love to think that this is just the start of a 6 book series.
This is quite a short book and I devoured it all in one sitting. The book was fast paced and the story continued to flow along so I just didn’t want to put the book down – so I didn’t!
In this book we get the story of Gabriel (Gabe) who is the eldest of the Rhodes siblings. Gabe is one of the senior partners at the family’s law firm and he is totally blown away when Olivia Cameron comes for an interview with him.
To say that there are sparks immediately is an understatement. The chemistry between Olivia and Gabe is smoking. Let’s just say that scenes between them are pretty hot and steamy. Lisa Wood surely knows how to get the blood pumping.
The only issue I have with this book is that it contains what I would regard as spoilers for the next book in the series but it certainly won’t stop me from reading the next book as I can’t wait to read Ava’s story as I get the impression that it’s going to be even more hot and steamy that Gabe and Olivia’s story which I loved.

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True Bastard (A Dark Sparrow Novel Book 4) by India Kells – Review by Karyn Taylor

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True Bastard (A Dark Sparrow Novel #4)True Bastard by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

True Bastard is the 4th book in the Dark Sparrow Series by India Kells. I have been a huge fan of India Kells’ work for some time and have loved the previous books in the Dark Sparrow Series. Reading the synopsis of this book, I just knew that I was going to love this one and I’m glad to say that I absolutely loved it.
In this book it’s the turn of Liam Harker, the police officer brother to have his story told. When I found out that Liam’s leading lady Catriona Walsh was a nun, I could not wait to see how his story turned out. Like all of the other books in this series, this book pulled me in from the very beginning and took me on an amazing roller coaster journey filled with drama, intrigue, danger and romance that I could not put down.
Liam and Catriona are both amazing characters that I could read for hours and hours. I loved them both as individuals and also loved reading the two of them together. The sexual tension between the two of them is off the charts smoking HOT and makes for very entertaining reading.
I also loved that we got to catch up with the rest of the ‘bastard’ brothers and their better halves and see how they are getting on. The very end gives you a little taster as to the next story in the series and I really can’t wait to read Sam’s story and see him get his well-deserved HEA.

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Road Tripped (Satan’s Devils MC Utah #1) by Manda Mellett – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Road Tripped (Satan's Devils MC Utah #1)Road Tripped by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Road Tripped is the first book in a new series of Satan’s Devils MC books by Manda Mellett, this tome set in the Utah Chapter. When Manda introduced the San Diego Chapter, I admitted to being worried beforehand that I wouldn’t gel with the new Chapter. How wrong I was! This time I had no worries as I knew that Manda wouldn’t let me down. However as I started reading she threw me for a loop. These guys seemed nothing like the other Chapters and I started to panic. Silly me! Or course Manda was just playing with us and these guys soon found a place in my heart.
Our main character Road we have met before as he was a member of the mother chapter and had travelled to Utah after an accident which left him no longer able to compete in trial bike riding. What he discovers is a totally different type of Satan’s Devils Chapter, whose ways he is intrigued by and decides to spend some time there. What he least expects is a woman who totally knocks him for 6. Swift is unlike any other women he has ever met. She’s ex British Army and is as feisty as hell. You certainly don’t want to get on her wrong side.
As always, with Satan’s Devils books, this is more than just a romance story, Manda Mellett has written yet another amazing storyline that is gripping, exciting and full of danger.
Having now been introduced to so many new brothers, I can’t wait to read their stories.

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Composed (An Ash Park Novel Book 8) by Meghan O’Flynn – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Composed: An Ash Park Novel (Volume 8)Composed: An Ash Park Novel by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Composed is the 8th book in the Ash Park series by Meghan O’Flynn. This is a series set around police detective Edward Petrosky. Each book is written as a standalone and contains one complete story so can be read in any order. I have not read all the books in the series so far but have loved the ones that I have read and this one was no exception.
Meghan O’Flynn sure knows how to write a detailed, intricate storyline that has so many twists and turns and has you gripped from the very beginning and does not let you go. Composed is dark and gritty and I absolutely loved it. Petrosky is an old school detective and I love being inside his head and seeing just what goes through his mind, how he thinks through his cases and gets his ideas. One thing I loved about this book was the camaraderie between him and his partner Jackson. They are both so in tune with what the other is thinking and the banter between them is so entertaining.
In addition to the case that Petrosky is working on, I loved reading about his own personal demons that he is working through as this adds a great deal to the story and gives us more insight into his character.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and look forward to seeing what Meghan O’Flynn has in store for Petrosky next.

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Secure Desire (Chase Security Series Book 1) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Secure Desire (Chase Security Series Book 1)Secure Desire by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Secure Desire is the first book in the Chase Security Series by R.L. Dunn. It’s the first time that I have read any of this author’s work but it certainly will not be the last. I was enticed by the blurb on this book and thought it would be the kind of book that I’d enjoy, so decided to give it a try. I’m so glad that I took a chance on this book as I absolutely loved it.
This book is filled with drama, mystery, murder and intrigue and had me hooked from the very beginning and did not let me go. The author takes you on a fantastic journey and you just don’t know where to story is going to go next. It’s a very well written and obviously well thought out storyline which flows very well and keeps the reader fully engaged.
There is quite a large amount of characters in addition to Ian and Cassie, the 2 main characters but all have an important part to play and I’m sure we’ll see a lot more of some of them in the future books in the series. I adored both of the main characters Ian and Cassie. Cassie is so broken and Ian is just the perfect guy to put her back together again. Can I also add that the sexy times between them are smoking HOT!
I really can’t wait to read more of this series as Secure Desire really had me hooked and I loved every minute of it.

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Old and New: The Enchanted Wedding Dress (The MacLellan Sisters Trilogy Book 1) by Lucinda Race – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Old and New: The Enchanted Wedding Dress Book 1 (The MacLellan Sisters Trilogy)Old and New: The Enchanted Wedding Dress Book 1 by Lucinda Race
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Old and New: The Enchanted Wedding Dress is the first book in the MacLellan Sisters Trilogy by Lucinda Race. Lucinda Race is an author that I have read before so was really looking forward to reading more of her work.
This is a great romance book but it is quite different from a lot of romance books that I have read before. Much of the book is centred around the three MacLellan sisters Jamie, Kenzie and Grace and a lot of time is devoted to scenes where the three of them are together finding out about their recently departed Grandmother and the enchanted wedding dress that they have been sent following her death. The three sisters are very different and I loved getting to know all three of them. I loved how close they are to each other and the support that they give to each other.
In this book we are concentrated on the oldest sister Jamie and her budding relationship with lawyer Steve. Jamie is waiting on the sparks flying and the butterflies giving her the signs that he is ‘the one’ only they don’t appear except when his brother Caleb makes an appearance.
I loved reading about the three sisters and the Sullivan brothers. There is such great camaraderie when they are all together and I could read about them for hours. I really can’t wait for the next book to see what Lucinda Race has in store next for the MacLellan sisters.

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Falling for the Texan (Prentice Brothers of Sweet Ridge Book 2) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Falling for the Texan (Prentice Brothers of Sweet Ridge, #2)Falling for the Texan by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Falling For The Texan is the 2nd book in the Prentice Brothers of Sweet Ridge series by Nicole Flockton. Each book in this series can be read as a standalone. I had not read the first book in this series and did not feel that I was missing any necessary information to enjoy and understand this book. I had, however, read and enjoyed other books by Nicole Flockton so I knew that there was every chance that I would enjoy this one, and I did, very much.
Falling For The Texan is very much an opposites attract story. Tyler Prentice is the country boy working hard to make his vineyard in Sweet Ridge Texas a success and Gianna Lucchia is top advertising exec from New York who is sent to ensure the success of his new wine label. She’s sent as a punishment for supposedly losing a big client and a small town in Texas is the last place on earth she wants to be,
I loved Tyler and Gianna’s story. They do everything to fight the attraction and chemistry between them. For Gianna, having a relationship with a client is a major no no and Tyler refuses to admit that this smart city lady actually can see the real him that no one else does. Can Tyler and Gianna look past all then reasons that they shouldn’t be together and have the HEA they they both deserve? Read this great book and find out how Tyler and Gianna’s story unfolds.

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Shooting Star (Back Door Records Book 1) by Xana Jordan – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Shooting Star (Back Door Records 1)Shooting Star by Xana Jordan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shooting Star is the first book in the Back Door Records series by Xana Jordan. It’s the first time I’ve read any work by this author but I’m a total sucker for a rock star romance and just had to give this one a try. I’m so glad that I did as I really enjoyed this book. It’s a little bit different from some rock star romances in that the main male character (Aiden) is the manager/agent for the band and not a band member. Although the female lead (Aria) is a member of the support band.
Having spent several years dedicated to his career as a band manager/agent Aiden was totally unprepared for singer Aria to totally turn his world upside down when he had to find a new support act for his band when the previous act has to pull out. The chemistry between Aiden and Aria is totally sizzling. They are drawn to each other like a magnet to metal and both are totally thrown by the intensity of their attraction and growing feelings for one another.
I absolutely loved both Aiden and Aria. Both are very well written characters and you can’t help but be totally rooting for these two to have a happily ever after. They are just perfect for each other. Aiden is just a total sweetheart. He’s not afraid to put his heart on his sleeve and tell Aria exactly what he wants.
As well as these 2 main characters, this book has a large secondary cast with the members of both bands and I can’t wait to see what Xana Jordan has in store for the rest of these guys (and girl).

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Better Than Goodbye (Venture Book 1) by Kinney Scott – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Better Than Goodbye (Venture Book 1)Better Than Goodbye by Kinney Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Better Than Goodbye is the first book in the Venture series by Kinney Scott. It is also the first book that I have read by this author. I used to be bad for sticking to the same author’s all the time but now I’m more likely to take the plunge on author’s I haven’t read before if the blurb ‘speaks’ to me. I’m so glad that I’ve changed this mentality as I’ve discovered many new authors I’d have never read before. If this book is anything to go by then I’ll definitely be reading more of Kinney Scott’s work. I’m already looking forward to reading more of this series to see what happens to some of the characters from this one in the future.
Better Than Goodbye is a great second chance romance that had me pulled into the story from the very beginning and did not let me go. The story is very well written and flows very well at a good pace. I did feel that the pace was a bit quick at the beginning when we were getting the past history of Amanda and Kent but then it settled as it came to the present day and moved at a much better pace.
I loved the characters of Kent and Amanda and their sexual chemistry is off the charts HOT! Kinney sure knows how to write a sizzling story filled with drama that makes it hard to put the book the book down when real life sadly gets in the way.
In addition to Kent and Amanda there is a great secondary cast that I’m hoping to read more about in future books in this series.

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Love Song: A friends-to-lovers rock and roll romantic suspense by KG Fletcher – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Love Song (A friends-to-lovers rock and roll romantic suspense)Love Song by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love Song is an amazing friends to lovers romance by one of my favourite authors K.G. Fletcher. I first discovered K.G. Fletcher with the amazing Southern Promises series and have devoured everything she’s written since then and I’ve adored every single thing she’s written and Love Song is no different. I adored this book.
Where this book was a little different to some of Fletcher’s other work is that this book had a darker edge to it. As well as the awesome romance that she writes this book also had a thrilling element to it. The thrilling storyline has you on the edge of your seat and gasping in shock.
K.G. Fletcher sure knows how to write an awesome romance story that totally pulls at your heartstrings and she did this with Casey and Sam’s story. I absolutely adored both of these characters. Casey is a strong willed, independent woman and has a heart of gold. Sam is an absolute sweetheart and is the type of guy anyone would want as a friend. In addition to these 2 there was another character who, in my opinion, was a total scene stealer and that is GG, Casey’s adorable 3 year old niece. She is just the cutest, most adorable kid ever and your heart just melts and breaks when you understand how much she’s gone through in her short life.
I’d give this book more than 5 stars if I could.

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Trey: European Redemption (Russian Mob Chronicles Book 7) by Shandi Boyes – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Trey: European Redemption (Russian Mob Chronicles Book 7)Trey: European Redemption by Shandi Boyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Trey is the 7th book in the Russian Mob Chronicles by Shandi Boyes. Some of the books in this series can be read as a standalone and this is one of those. I had previously read some, but not all, of the books in this series and did not feel that I was missing any relevant information to allow me to understand and enjoy this book.
I first became a fan of Shandi Boyes when I read the Enigma Series as I loved the gritty characters and storylines that she writes and this book is exactly that. The storyline is dark and gritty and the characters are equally hard and gritty. K has to be one of the gutsiest and determined heroines I’ve ever read. When you read just how much she has gone through in her life, you can’t help but be amazed by her grit and determination. I also adored Trey. He may be a ruthless killer but K brings out a whole different side of him no one has ever seen and he never knew he was capable of.
This book is filled with so much danger and intrigue. You are pulled in from the very first page and this book just does not let you go. ‘Page turner’ does not do it justice. I did not want to put this book down, it was so good.

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The Trouble With Paradise (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery Book 4) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Trouble with Paradise (Madeline Dawkins #4)The Trouble with Paradise by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Trouble With Paradise is the 4th book in the Madeline Dawkins Mystery series by Cynthia Hamilton. Each book can be read as a standalone but in my opinion I think you’d get more from the series if you read it all from the beginning and in order. This is a fantastic mystery series that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
As much as I loved the first book in this series, I think it gets better and better as it goes on and we get to spend more time in the company of Madeline Dawkins and her partner Mike Delaney. Just reading the blurb, I was already hooked and that was before I even started reading – Two dead husbands – Accident, Suicide or Murder?
Yet again Cynthia Hamilton had written an intricate storyline with so many twists and turns that you can’t put this book down. I absolutely loved this book. The two cases that Madeline and Mike are working on are full of mystery, danger and intrigue and are highly entertaining. I was totally absorbed by both cases and couldn’t wait to see how they unravelled.
Madeline and Mike are both amazing characters. I could read their exploits for hours on end. I can’t wait to read more in this series.

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Drawn to Him by Tammy Mannersly – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Drawn to HimDrawn to Him by Tammy Mannersly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Drawn to Him is a great romance story by Tammy Mannersly. I’m a total sucker for a great romance story and took a leap of faith in trying out a new author (for me) in Tammy Mannersly. I’m so glad that I took the leap as I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
The two main characters Dr Matthew Garrick and Erica Townsend are both fantastic characters. Matthew is the hot new doctor in town and has set every woman’s heart aflutter. Erica is the local art teacher whose art classes grow in popularity when Matthew joins.
In addition to the 2 main characters there is an excellent secondary cast, in particular Matthew’s mate and fellow doctor Nate and Erica’s best friend Seeley. Both of these play much more than bit part roles and add a great deal to the story.
It was such a nice change to read a book that is set in Australia as most books I read are set in the USA, with a few set in the UK. It was a welcome change of scenery.
I loved the story line of this book. I was drawn into the story from the very beginning and was rooting for Erica and Matthew as they seemed perfect for each other. The author keeps you engaged throughout and you just want to keep reading to see how the story ends. I’d definitely recommend.

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REBECCA STEELE FINDING A DREAM (REBECCA STEELE SERIES BOOK 2) by JOANNE PATTERSON – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Rebecca Steele Finding the Dream (Rebecca Steele Series #2)Rebecca Steele Finding the Dream by Joanne Patterson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rebecca Steele Finding The Dream is the 2nd book in the Rebecca Steele Series by Joanne Patterson. I had not read the first book in this series, in fact, it’s the first time I had read anything by this author, but I was able to follow the story fine and didn’t feel that I was missing any relevant information.
Rebecca, or Becky as she’s known is now making a name for herself in the country music scene and is enjoying life living and helping out on the ranch and her friendship with Chance is developing into something more. As always the path to true love never runs smoothly and Becky and Chance face a few bumps in the road, but that makes for a more enjoyable reading experience. It would be boring if everything was perfect.
I loved both Becky and Chance’s characters. Becky is energetic and spirited but very loving and loyal to her friends and all who are close to her. Chance is a sweet, hardworking, cowboy who would do everything possible to make Becky happy.
I did take a little bit to get really into this story but overall I did enjoy it very much. The overall storyline is good although in parts I did feel that it could have been more descriptive. The book is quite short and I think it could have been padded out a little more. Some events were over very quickly and could have been added to. Although short, I did enjoy what I read.

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The Widow: A Dark Romantic Fantasy by Naomi Valkyrie & Rebecca E. McEwen – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Widow: A Dark Romantic FantasyThe Widow: A Dark Romantic Fantasy by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Widow is a great romantic fantasy by Naomi Valkyrie and Rebecca E. McEwen. I had never read any work by either of these authors so took a leap of faith in choosing to read this book. I’m so glad I took the plunge as I really enjoyed this story. It’s not a very long story and I was able to devour the whole book in 1 sitting.
The heroine of this story is Vashti who is getting over the death of her husband the previous year. She decides to take in a ‘roommate’ of sorts in Absalom. This book is their story.
This book is far from a traditional romance as Vashti and Absalom’s romance is far from traditional. I absolutely loved both of these characters. Vashti is rather eccentric and dresses as though she lives in the Victorian times and does not care what anyone else thinks of her. She is such a strong and vibrant character. I also loved Absalom, he’s such a sweet guy and has had such a hard time.
I loved how these two writers write so descriptively. You are given very detailed descriptions of each location and you can easily picture them in your head. I’d definitely love to read more by these authors.

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Center of Gravity (An Ice Tigers Hockey Romance Book 2) by Isabella Cassazza – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Center of Gravity (Ice Tigers #2)Center of Gravity by Isabella Cassazza
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Center of Gravity is the 2nd book in the Ice Tigers Hockey Romance Series by Isabella Cassazza. Each book can be read as a standalone but centre around a hockey team so characters will reoccur. I hadn’t read the first book in this series before reading this one but now that I have read the blurb of the 1st book I NEED to read it ASAP.
One thing I don’t usually mention when writing a review is the cover of a book but as this book has the beautiful Kamil Nizinski on the cover, it’s certainly worth a mention. He’s definitely a good muse to have when picturing Matt.
Matt is the captain of the Ice Tigers hockey team and is focussed on winning the Stanley Cup with his team. Emilia Ravelli is the new GM who just happens to have a bit of history with Matt and her appointment just might make Matt lose some of that focus.
I loved Matt and Emilia’s story. It’s filled with so much emotion. This book really tugs at the heart strings, particularly Matt’s relationship with his family. Emilia also has a difficult family relationship which adds to the stress she is under trying to prove to her family that she is a valued member of the family business.
I really loved the story line of this book. The author reels you in from the very start and doesn’t let you go. This is definitely a page turner. I couldn’t wait to see how Matt and Emilia’s story turned out and now I want to read more of this series.

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The Princess and the Pit Bulls (The Fairy Tale Series Book 4) by Jody Lynn Daniels – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Princess and the Pit Bulls: Book Four in the Fairy Tale SeriesThe Princess and the Pit Bulls: Book Four in the Fairy Tale Series by Jody Daniels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Princess and The Pit Bulls is a very sweet romance by Jody Lynn Daniels. This was the first time that I had read any of this author’s work. I was enticed by the blurb and decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did as I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Chloe Wheeler is an up and coming fashion designer which is her dream job. When all goes wrong at work her life takes a new turn.
Sebastian Adams is the new vet in town. He’s very charming and easy on the eye and comes with 2 adorable pit bulls Bonnie And Clyde. He first sees Chloe when she’s bridesmaid at her sister’s wedding and he thinks she looks just like a princess.
I loved both of these characters. Everyone just adores Chloe and she’s a huge hit with the animals at the vet practice (and their owners). She has a huge amount of love and compassion for others and is willing to help anyone in need. Sebastian is just an all-round great guy. He’s sweet, loyal and trustworthy. The fact that he’s gorgeous is an added bonus. I loved how he fought for Chloe, both for her heart and to clear her name.
This lovely romance had me gripped to the story from the beginning and was a definite page turner. I was hooked to Chloe and Sebastian’s story and couldn’t wait to see how it turned out.
100% recommend this book!

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Help Me, Harry by Mya O’Malley – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Help Me, HarryHelp Me, Harry by Mya O’Malley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Help Me, Harry is a great quick read romance by Mya O’Malley. I had read some of this author’s work before, having read the Maggie Trilogy and was already a fan. I really enjoyed Help Me, Harry and devoured it in a couple of hours.
Cassie and Harry’s story is a very enjoyable read. I loved both characters. I loved how Cassie is quite introverted and can be a bit of a loner, very much like myself. It was great to read a leading character like this.
Harry is also an adorable character. He’s very sweet and an all-round very lovely guy. He senses immediately that Cassie is not happy with her life, in particular her fiancé, and tries to be a shoulder for her to lean on.
I also enjoyed reading Cassie and Harry’s adventures as they spent time together, visiting different locations and exploring the area.
This may be a short read but the author manages to fit quite a lot of content into the story and it’s a story that keeps the reader engaged and wanting to keep reading to see what happens next.

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