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Joined: Book One by Mara Gan – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Joined (Joined #1)Joined by Mara Gan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Joined: Book One by Mara Gan is a fantastic science fiction/fantasy novel. I have only recently started reading this genre and I’m so glad that I gave it a go as I absolutely loved this book. This is a new author to me and I had no idea of their writing style but I can safely say now that Mara Gan sure knows how to write a fantastic engaging story.
When I think of the imagination required to create this story, it blows me away. Not only are there many different characters who all play a vital role in the story but there are different nationalities, planets, galaxies etc that must have taken a great deal of imagination, planning and preparation.
As to the story itself, I was totally hooked on it from the very beginning and was taken on a rollercoaster journey to the end only to be left wanting more.
The 2 main characters Princess Andromeda (or Meda as she’s better known) and her Protector Perseus are awesome. Meda is sassy, strong willed and does not like having restrictions placed on her. As her life is under threat, Perseus is constantly exasperated by her constant rule breaking. All this is not helped by the fact that they both have feelings for each other but, with Meda being a Princess and Heir to the galaxy, her future husband has been chosen for her.
Can Perseus keep Meda safe from those who want her killed? Can the 2 of them resist the obvious feelings that they have for one another? I’d really recommend that you read this fantastic book to find out. For me, I can’t wait for Book Two as I want to know what the future has in store for Meda and Perseus.

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Captivity: A Paranormal Romance Novella (Captivity Book 1) by Sarah Biglow & Molly Zenk – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Captivity (Captivity Book 1)Captivity by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Captivity: A Paranormal Romance Novella is the awesome first book in the Captivity series by Sarah Biglow and Molly Zenk. I had not read any work by either of these authors before reading this book but I will definitely be reading more – in particular, the remainder of this series.
As this is a novella, it’s a very fast read. You feel that you are just getting into the story and starting to know the characters when the story abruptly ends, leaving you at a vital part of the story…arghhhh
I loved the main characters of Aiden and Lorelei. Lorelei is so sassy and not afraid to say what she’s thinking. The authors did a really good job of developing exciting characters. They provided detailed descriptions of how the characters looked so you could picture the scenes in your head more easily.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what the authors have in store for Aiden and Lorelei next.
If you are a fan of fantasy/paranormal then I’d definitely recommend this book for you.

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Everyday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily Conjurings by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Everyday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily ConjuringsEveryday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily Conjurings by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Everyday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily Conjurings by Maria DeBlassie is a book that is absolutely nothing like any other book I’ve ever read. I honestly never knew that books like this existed. I had never read any of this author’s work but the book came highly recommended, so I decided to give it a go.
Everyday Enchantments is a series of short essays which cover just about any and every subject possible and shows how you can find the magic in them if you look hard enough, even including very mundane things like cooking. It makes you evaluate your life and see that there is much more to it than you previously thought. You see some things very differently.
This wasn’t a book that I could read for long spells at a time. For me, I liked to ‘dip in’ for little bursts, reading a couple of essays at a time. I found that I got more out of the essays that way.
As I said, this book is totally different to anything I’ve ever read so if you are looking for something that little (or big) bit different then you should give this book a read.

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Orion’s Kiss by Claire Luana – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Orion's KissOrion’s Kiss by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Orion’s Kiss is a fabulous YA fantasy by Claire Luana that gives a modern day twist to some Greek mythology. I had never read any of this author’s work but after reading this I’d definitely read more from this author.
Our heroine Meriah is the reincarnation of Merope. Meriah is sick of her sister’s being killed by Orion as a result of a curse placed on her family many centuries ago, so she decided that she needs to kill him.
What results is a funny, heartwarming story as Meriah kidnaps Orion (currently called Ryan in this life) in order to kill him. The more time that Meriah spends with Ryan she sees a whole different side of him and discovers that much of what she has always believed isn’t quite the true story. The 2 of them decided to team up, along with their 2 best friends to find Zeus and break the curse.
The interactions between Meriah and Ryan are hilarious at many points. Added to this both do a great deal of soul searching and discover new things about themselves.
This book is really well written with great characters. The storyline really grabs you from the very beginning and takes you on a fantastic journey. I definitely recommend this book.

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Blood Relations (The Sorrel Janes Mysteries) by Lonna Enox – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Blood RelationsBlood Relations by Lonna Enox
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blood Relations is the 2nd book in the Sorrel Janes Mysteries series by Lonna Enox. The first book in the series The Last Dance was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it, so was looking forward to reading this. I have to say that I enjoyed this book even more than this first one.
This book had me gripped straight away and kept me gripped throughout. Lonna Enox sure knows how to keep the reader gripped and, at times, on the edge of their seat. There is so much mystery and intrigue in this story.
In this story Sorrel once again teams up with Chris Reed to investigate the disappearance of her good friend John, who failed to turn up to meet her at a photography meet. Added to that, when Sorrel was taking a photograph at the meet she saw a dead body in the distance. This was only the start of all the twists and turns that this book takes.
I really love the characters Sorrel and Chris. Sorrel is an independent woman who is not afraid to speak her mind. Chris just loves teasing her as much as possible, he’s incorrigible. We also discover in this book that there is so much more to Chris’ character.
I have really enjoyed the first two books in this series and I really hope that Lonna Enox writes many more.

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Proper Ink (Jaded Lily Book 2) by Zeia Jameson – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Proper Ink (Jaded Lily #2)Proper Ink by Zeia Jameson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Proper Ink is the 2nd book in the awesome Jaded Lily series by Zeia Jameson. Most of the storyline runs concurrently with the first book in the series, Proper Irish. I had devoured the first book in one sitting and this one was a repeat performance. We had met both of the main characters in Proper Irish and I was really looking forward to reading Luca and Kerry’s story.
Luca Cipriani is a wonderful character. Having been seriously heartbroken in the past, he doesn’t let anyone in to his little bubble. His life revolves around the tattoo shop that he owns, Jaded Lily. I loved that we are given so much of Luca’s history, from his heartbreak and to how he came to be friends with Padraig (hero of Proper Irish) and then become a tattoo artist.
Kerry Frazier is a sweetheart. Best friend and working partner of Stella from the first book. She’s intrigued by Luca and wants to help him move on. I loved that this book is told from Luca’s point of view as it really allows the reader to understand the pain and struggle he has gone through.
This series has grabbed me so far and I can’t wait to read more of it. Highly recommended.

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Scarlet Fever (A Johnny Delarosa Thriller Book 1) by David Stever – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Scarlet Fever: A Crime ThrillerScarlet Fever: A Crime Thriller by David Stever
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Scarlet Fever: A Crime Thriller is the first book in the Johnny Delarosa Thriller series by David Stever. It is a private detective thriller story that will keep you gripped the whole way through. This is the first time I had read any work by this author and I’ll definitely be reading more.
Johnny is a PI who works out of the pub he co-owns with his former partner in the police force, Mike. He also has the added help of new amateur sleuth Katie, who he rescues from kidnappers at the very beginning of the book.
In this book they are searching for £2 million pounds which went missing 30 years previously. This missing money is related to mob activity so therefore attracts the attention of many undesirables. As the body count rises, several attempts on Johnny’s life happen, and then the disappearance of his client, Johnny knows this is not an easy case. In fact, if his team all come out alive it’ll be a bonus.
Scarlet Fever is fast paced and full of so much intrigue and suspense, you’ll be sucked right into the story and it won’t let you go.
I really look forward to reading more books in this series as, if this first one is anything to go by, we are in for a fantastic series.

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The Fisher Men X My Heart (The Fisher Men Book 1) by Rebel Nicks O’Dey – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Fisher Men X My HeartThe Fisher Men X My Heart by Rebel Nicks O’Dey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Fisher Men X My Heart is the first book in The Fisher Men series by Rebel Nicks O’Dey. All I can say is if the rest of this series is anything as good as this book, then we are in for one hell of a ride. Can I also mention that this book has absolutely nothing to do with fishing. The Fisher Men are 4 adorable brothers with the surname Fisher.
This book had me captured from the very beginning and didn’t let me go. 4 brothers: Morgan, Connor, Xander and Zack are there to protect their neighbour Samantha after a terrifying incident. They will do anything to protect her and have a pact never to date her. The all love her in their own way and she loves and needs them all in return BUT she is in love with one of them and now that she’s older and has graduated college she’s out to get her man. But which one has she chosen?
I have to say that I adored Samantha and all 4 brothers. They were all so different and each had their own amazing qualities. You won’t be able to put this book down, firstly wanting to know which brother she has chosen and then, how can they have a relationship without breaking the Fisher Men rules.
I loved that the author gave forewarning of a possible trigger in the story and also highlighted where the trigger was so that the reader could skip this part if they felt the need to do so.
I can’t wait to see what this author has in store for this amazing family of brothers in the remaining books in the series.

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Proper Irish (Jaded Lily Book 1) by Zeia Jameson – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Proper Irish (Jaded Lily #1)Proper Irish by Zeia Jameson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Proper Irish is the fantastic first book in the Jaded Lily series by Zeia Jameson. I had not previously read any of this authors work and I have to hand it to her, I absolutely loved this book. If this first book in the series is anything to go by then this series is going to be right up there among my favourites.
The story centres around Stella Rosencourt who as an events planner is planning a St Patrick’s Day event for the local mayor who originates from Ireland. Unfortunately the mayor’s wife is a complete bitch and making Stella’s life hell. Add to that the mayor’s son Padraig has taken an immediate dislike to Stella. When Stella asks for Padraig’s help to make the event as authentically Irish as possible sparks are soon flying between the 2. As much as they dislike each other, they can’t deny the attraction.
I loved this story and devoured it all in one sitting. Padraig and Stella are amazing characters who are very well written. Padraig comes across as very abrupt and unpleasant to begin with but we soon get to see the much softer, charitable side of him. The interactions between the 2 can be quite entertaining to say the least. The secondary characters add a lot to the story. In particular I loved Padraig’s mum Moira. We are also introduced to Stella’s best friend Kerry and Padraig’s friend Luca who runs the tattoo shop, Jaded Lily, who seem to have hit it off too.
I already have the next book Proper Ink, which is Luca and Kerry’s story on my kindle and I can’t wait to dive in. If it’s anything like this book then I’m sure I’ll be loving that one too.

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The Fish that Climbed a Tree by Kevin Ansbro – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Fish That Climbed a TreeThe Fish That Climbed a Tree by Kevin Ansbro
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book I have read by this author so was unsure what to expect. Also, I’ve been stepping out of my comfort zone a bit recently and reading different genres so again was tentative about reading this. All I can say is that I loved it. Not quite sure exactly which genre it fits as it could fall into many. It has supernatural, religion, thriller, crime and a bit of romance too.
Although mainly centred around Henry Drummond, there are many characters with a major role in the book. Kevin Ansbro does an amazing job of creating characters that you love, hate, despise and just about every other emotion. The evil Pascal and Yuri are so well written, you get really into their heads and see what makes them the evil gits that they are. Sebastian is another story – on my god can he get his head any further up his own backside!! I loved Henry and Amber, especially the way in which Amber deals with Henry’s poshness (is that even a word?) My favourite character is Mr O’Connor, Henry’s landlord. I love just how he took Henry under his wing and became a father figure to him encouraging him in his ambition to be an author.
Honestly I could write forever about the characters in this book as they are so wonderful. I’m so glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried something different.

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Never Let Me Go (Bayou Devils MC Book 6) by A.M. Myers – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Never Let Me Go (Bayou Devils MC #6)Never Let Me Go by A.M. Myers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Never Let Me Go is the 6th book in the Bayou Devils MC series by A. M. Myers. Although part of a series it can be read as a stand-alone. I had not read any of the previous books in this series before reading this one and I didn’t feel that I was missing out any necessary information.
In this book we have the story of Juliette Shaw and Sawyer Michelson. After a serious car crash Juliette wakes up and has lost memory of the last 5 years of her life. She has no idea who the man who is supposedly her fiancé is. She has trouble adjusting to her new life and decides to run away back to where she lived previously. Her friend gets Sawyer to give her a ride back to Baton Rouge.
Do you believe in love at first sight? It certainly seems to have struck Juliette and Sawyer. The attraction and connection between the 2 of them is instant. It’s as if they have both found their soul mate.
When it becomes apparent that Juliette’s life is at risk, Sawyer and his brothers in the Bayou Devils take it upon themselves to get to the bottom of the story.
This story is filled with suspense. It really drags you into the story and doesn’t let you go. The ending – well I certainly didn’t see that coming! This is a fantastic romantic thriller that I’d definitely recommend to others.

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The Good Neighbors by Kiersten Modglin – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Good NeighborsThe Good Neighbors by Kiersten Modglin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Holy Hell! What can I say about The Good Neighbors by Kiersten Modglin? Wow! This psychological thriller will drag you through the wringer. It will grab you from the very first page and take you on a tour through every emotion possible before spitting you out at the end wondering what the hell happened.
When newlyweds Bryant and Harper Page move to Lancaster Mills to start new jobs in their new careers, with their dream house they thought that their new life was perfect. That was until they met the beautiful couple next door Jason and Tori Fuller and then everything they dreamed and hoped for came crashing around them. Strange events start happening and all seems to be due to the strange couple next door. Are Tori and Jason hiding something? Are they the culprits of all the strange events that are happening?
The author throws so many curveballs at you and takes the story in a direction you definitely never saw coming. Even though the story is told in dual POV from Bryant and Harper, you are still left shocked and stunned at how this story unfolds.
If you like a good psychological thriller then The Good Neighbors is definitely the book for you. I loved this book and will definitely be checking out more of this author’s work.

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Ruin: The El Diablo Chronicles by Autumn Sand – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Ruin: The El Diablo ChroniclesRuin: The El Diablo Chronicles by Autumn Sand
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ruin: The El Diablo Chronicles is a fantastic romantic suspense novel by Autumn Sand. It is a spin off from the Twisted Hearts Love Story series but can be read as a stand-alone. I was gutted when that series ended so was overjoyed that Autumn Sand decided to give El Diablo and Tallie their own story.
I loved El Diablo and Tallie’s story. Their characters are amazing. This story contains storylines that may act as triggers for some readers. There is an element of sexual abuse in the story. This book had everything I love in a book. I was gripped tightly right from the very start and wasn’t let go. You will go through every emotion possible when reading it – anger, devastation, heartbreak, this book has it in spades.
Autumn Sand sure knows how to tell a story. I loved that the characters I had loved from the Twisted Hearts books were back. They don’t overshadow El Diablo and Tallie at all but their role in this book is essential.
I have to say that the author throws a few curveballs at you. I had several WTF!!! moments reading this.
I would definitely recommend this book. Also I would recommend that you also read the 4 books in the Twisted Hearts Love Story series as they are so damn good.

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Kingdom of War (Kingdom Journals Volume 4) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Kingdom of WarKingdom of War by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kingdom of War is the 4th book in the Kingdom Journals by Tricia Copeland. It is a paranormal/fantasy series. This book can be read as a stand-alone although it is a continuation from the previous books in the series, each of which surround one main character. I had not read any of the previous books in the series but the author does a fantastic job of making sure that you are not missing and important parts of the story.
This book centres around Hunter, who at 17. has only recently discovered that he is a witch. In fact, he’s a very important witch with a huge role to play in the future of all witches.
Reading this book was a huge leap for me as this is a genre that I’ve not read since I was a teenager (many, many years ago!) and I was unsure if I’d still enjoy this genre. Thankfully my fears were not realised as I thoroughly enjoyed it. There are many character and the whole plot/story line is quite intricate so you have to concentrate when reading (well, I did) but it’s worth it as this book is a great read. I would definitely recommend this book.

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The Matchmaker’s Match (Man’s Best Friend Book 3) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Matchmaker's Match (Man's Best Friend, #3)The Matchmaker’s Match by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Matchmaker’s Match is the 3rd book in the Man’s Best Friend Series by Nicole Flockton. As the series name suggests, an adorable dog plays a very important role in the story. Each of these books can be read as a standalone. The characters from previous books are part of the story so If you are going to read them all, then I’d suggest you read them in order.
When your life is not going too great, the last person you want to see when you are bridesmaid at your best friend’s wedding is the hot guy that you had an amazing one night stand with as the best man. But when an emergency strikes at the rehearsal dinner Lincoln is the one who is there for Meredith to give her support.
I really loved the interaction between school teacher Meredith and K9 handler Lincoln. There are some funny, sad, emotional, heart-wrenching moment between the 2 of them and many of those surround the gorgeous little scene stealer, puppy Buster.
I loved that we got to see the couples from the 2 previous books and had updates on their stories. They are not just there as scene fillers, they are relevant to the story and are a valuable addition to the story.
I hope there is more to come from the Man’s Best Friend Series as I’ve loved it so far. Definitely worth reading.

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Wayward (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Wayward (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 1)Wayward by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wayward is the first book in the Billionaire Bodyguards series by Via Mari. This series is a spin off from 2 previous series: The Prestian Series and The Torzial Affair. In this series we see into the lives and loves of the bodyguards whose job it is to guard the billionaires from the other 2 series.
Wayward centres around Jay who is the head of the security team and Sasha Koslov, a Russian ballerina who was previously involved with one of Jay’s bosses. Jay has been captivated by the beautiful, graceful ballerina from the first instance he saw her. Now it emerges that she is related to the mafia and her life is in danger, Jay will do anything to keep her safe.
This book will have you sucked right into the heart of the story from the very first page and will not let you go. It will drag you through a roller coaster of emotions and you won’t want to put it down. The characters are very well written and have so much depth to them, you really feel that you get to know them.
I really loved this book. I had not read any of this author’s work before but now I really want to read the Prestian Series and The Torzial Affair as I’m intrigued as to what has gone on with these characters previously.

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Bowled: Facing the Yorker of Love (To Love a Sportsman Book 1) by Pamela Q. Fernandes – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Bowled (To Love a Sportsman Book 1)Bowled by Pamela Q. Fernandes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bowled: Facing The Yorker Of Love is the first book in the To Love A Sportsman series by Pamela Q. Fernandes. I had not previously read any of this author’s work but I do love a good sports romance so decided to give this a try. Although I have read many sports romances, I have never read one centred around the sport of cricket. Thankfully I’m a lover of cricket and incidentally I’m writing this review while watching England play at the world Cup.
Hero of this story is Mathew Anderson, captain of the England cricket team. Having been accused of domestic abuse by his previous girlfriend, he’s currently keeping women at arm’s length. Well that is until he receives a tweet from Rose Cavendish which forces him to take action.
I absolutely loved the interactions between Mathew and Rose. There is an instant attraction between the 2 but both have severe trust issues since their previous relationships. Rose is a feisty character that i loved but she also came across as very vulnerable at times.
I loved Mathew’s characters but there were a few occasions that I’d loved to have given him a kick up the backside. I hated that he allowed dinner guests to speak badly of her. He lost serious brownie points at that point in the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more of this series.

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Furbidden Attraction: A Cursed Romance (Raven Falls Cursed Romances Book 1) by R. O’Leary – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Furbidden Attraction: A Cursed RomanceFurbidden Attraction: A Cursed Romance by R. O’Leary
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Furbidden Attraction: A Cursed Romance is the first book in the Raven Falls Cursed Romances Series by R. O’Leary. Reading this book was a huge risk for me as this is a genre I’ve never read before and I was really worried that I wouldn’t be able to get into the book or enjoy it. Well, all my worrying was unfounded, I absolutely loved this book.
Louisa has moved to Raven Falls for a new start in life. She’s not liking her new life very much when things take a very unusual turn. She awakes one morning to find Jack, the adorable dog that she’s taken home from her work in a vet’s surgery, has turned into a very handsome, naked man in her bed. Needless to say she doesn’t believe this at first as how can a dog turn into a man!
Louisa is soon drawn into Jack’s world of shifters and the paranormal and has to rethink her whole outlook on life. I loved the characters of Jack and Louisa. Louisa is witty and sassy and has a smart answer for everything, whereas Jack is just so sweet and adorable, well except when he turns into a 7 foot monster!
This story is fast paced and full of suspense. As well as the growing romance between Jack and Louisa, the storyline is intriguing and had me gripped the whole way through.
I’m so glad I took the risk and read this book. I look forward to reading more from this series.

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Shattered Melody: A romantic suspense novella by Amy McKinley – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Shattered MelodyShattered Melody by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shattered Melody is a fantastic novella by Amy McKinley. Amy McKinley is an author I’ve come to love over the last 6 months having read all of the Gray Ghost novels so far.
This may be a short novella (only 68 pages) but by God, the author crams so much action into it. I’ve always been gripped to her book from the very first page and this was no different.
Songwriter Emma Dawson moved to a remote mountain location after the death of her fiancé in a car accident 3 years before. Believing that his death was no accident she lives as a recluse.
When drop dead gorgeous Reese Miller moves into a cottage not too far from hers, her world turns upside down. There is an instant attraction between the 2 but as strange things start happening (dropped phone calls etc) she begins to wonder if Reese is her knight in shining armour or if he’s the one she should be most afraid of.
I loved this story, in particular the interaction between Emma and Reese. Amy McKinley sure knows how to write fantastic characters and a story that keeps you gripped until the very last page.

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RETURN (Rewind Book 2) by Rowan Shaw – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Return (Rewind #2)Return by Rowan Shaw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Return is the 2nd book in the Rewind Series by Rowan Shaw. The rewind series is a set of contemporary bisexual romances set in France. This book contains m/m, m/f and m/f/m sexual scenes.
I had previously read the first book in this series, Rewind, and had thoroughly enjoyed it so was looking forward to reading this. My only concern was that I did not like the main character, Raphael in the first book. I decided that I would forget that I had known him before and judge him purely on this book. I’m so glad I did as I really loved the character of Raphael in this book. The author really gets you to know so much about her main characters and there was so much to Raphael that you couldn’t help but love him.
I also adored the other main character Adrien. He‘s such a complex character with so much heartache in his past that he feels unlovable. The interaction between Raphael and Adrien was great to read, with both of them trying hard to resist their growing attraction to each other.
I loved this story and can’t wait to see what Rowan Shaw has for us in the next instalment in this series.

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A Protector’s Touch by Parker Sinclair – Review by Karyn Taylor

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A Protector's TouchA Protector’s Touch by Parker Sinclair
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Protector’s Touch is a wonderful new adult romance by Parker Sinclair. This was the first time that I had read any of this author’s work and I was very impressed by this book. This book contains violent domestic abuse and may be a trigger for some. The author has taken a very difficult subject and has done an amazing job with it.
April is in her sophomore year at college and has recently split from a very violent boyfriend who won’t accept that their relationship is over and is still harassing her. In steps Shan, whom April has secretly admired for some time, as her knight in shining armour.
The connection between Shan and April is so well written. The patience and empathy that he has for her is heart-warming. With his guidance, April slowly, but surely, starts to heal.
I adored the character of Shan. As much as April tried to push him away, he is determined to be there for her.
This story kept me gripped from the very beginning right up to the very unexpected ending. Thoroughly recommend this book.

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The Last Dance (The Sorrel Janes Mysteries) by Lonna Enox – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Last DanceThe Last Dance by Lonna Enox
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Last Dance is part of the Sorrel Janes Mysteries by Lonna Enox. I had not previously read any work by this author so was unsure what to expect. What I got was a very well written thriller, with a bit of romance that had me gripped from the very beginning.
Sorrel Janes has moved to Saddle Gap after the murder of her husband. She’s trying to stay low key as her husband’s murder has not been solved and she may be in danger. Needless to say, life does not go to plan and she’s soon embroiled in 2 murders that have taken place in the quiet town since she arrived. Added to that, she’s a suspect in one of the murders.
I loved the interaction between Sorrel and Detective Chris Reed who is investigating the murders. He’s sure she’s hiding something and he’s determined to find out what? There’s an instant sexual attraction between the 2 that they both fight to ignore, mainly due to the fact that they rub each other up the wrong way and are constantly bickering.
This story is a great thriller that will keep you gripped. The characters are really well written, not just the 2 main characters but the secondary characters have a valuable role to play in the story.
I really enjoyed this book and would like to read more from this series.

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Too Hot to Handle (The Catch Series Book 3) by Avery Scott – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Too Hot to Handle (The Catch, Book 3)Too Hot to Handle by Avery Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Too Hot To Handle is the 3rd book in The Catch Series by Avery Scott. Each book can be read as a stand-alone although many of the main characters do appear in each book. I had not read the first 2 books in the series before reading this and did not feel like I missed out on any necessary information. Although now I would like to go back and read the previous 2 books as I’m intrigued as to what the stories of these 2 couples are.
In this book our main characters are hot firefighter Tony (best friend of Derron from the previous book) and Georgia (Gigi) former fiancé of Chaz, who starred in TV reality show The Catch which this series of books is centred around. Georgia is trying to win Chaz back and Tony is helping her by playing the role of her boyfriend to make Chaz jealous.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the characters of Georgia and Tony, although Georgia did annoy me many times. The chemistry between them is hot and Tony will do anything to win Georgia over and make her realise that he is the right man for her and not Chaz. This despite the fact the Tony has always said he would never be committed to one woman. Is Georgia the one to make Tony change his mind?

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Behind Blue Eyes (Stockholm Murders Book 1) by CS Duffy – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Behind Blue EyesBehind Blue Eyes by C.S. Duffy
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Behind Blue Eyes is the first book in the Stockholm Murders series by C. S. Duffy. It’s a really gripping thriller that will suck you right onto the story from the onset. At one time this was my favourite genre but I have strayed away recently. After reading this book, I’ll definitely be reading more thrillers. I had never read any of this author’s work but I’m pretty sure i’ll be reading more of it.
The plot of this book will have you gripped throughout. Just when you think you have the story worked out, the author takes you in a new direction that has your head spinning.
Ellie has moved to Sweden to be with Johan, the love of her life. She doesn’t know the language or anything about Swedish culture. Soon after her arrival, she discovers a dead body on the beach. This body just happens to be Johan’s missing, presumed dead, former girlfriend. Ellie’s world is turned upside down. Is Johan a killer? When Ellie starts to dig a bit deeper, she discovers several unusual unexplained deaths in the area in recent years. Is there a serial killer in their midst?
I thoroughly loved this story, the characters were so well written and the plot nicely intricated to keep you hooked. I look forward to reading the next instalment in this series.

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Hoosier Dad by Elizabeth Seckman – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Hoosier DadHoosier Dad by Elizabeth Seckman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hoosier Dad is an awesome contemporary romance by Elizabeth Seckman. Before reading this, I had never read any of this author’s work, but now I will definitely be reading more. I loved it and would definitely recommend it to others, especially if you enjoy a second chance romance.
Approaching her 30th birthday and with yet another disastrous relationship behind her, attorney Sarah Andrews decided to move back home to Dodd. One of the first people she meets is Richland (Rich) Cooper, the man who broke her heart. Ideally, she would like to never see him again but Rich needs a lawyer to help him keep custody of his 2 daughters from his evil ex-wife (who at one point had been Sarah’s friend.
Spending more and more time together, and Sarah falling in love with his 2 daughters, Rich is determined to win Sarah back. I loved the interaction between Rich and Sarah, Sarah trying so hard to resist his charms when deep down she still loves him. Rich’s 2 daughters Stacey and Kari were adorable and added so much to the story. You gotta love a cute kid in a romance story!
Of course the path to true love never runs smooth and there are so many obstacles in their way, mainly Rich’s ex-wife Jess and the local Doc who has his eye set on Sarah for himself.
Well deserving of the 5 star rating!

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Salty Sebastian (Smirk Series book 3) by Jen Luerssen – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Salty Sebastian (Smirk Series Book 3)Salty Sebastian by Jen Luerssen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Salty Sebastian is the 3rd book in the Smirk Series by Jen Luerssen. I had never previously read any books by this author before this and wasn’t aware when I started that there were 2 books that came before it. Each book in the series can be read as a stand-alone although the same group of friends appear in each book. I certainly didn’t feel like I was missing any important information when reading this one, although I’m now intrigued as to what went on before. Although I’d like to read the previous book, I’m sure they are going to have a hard job living up to Sebastian and Kit as I loved their story.
Salty Sebastian is a contemporary romance that will have you in fits of laughter in many parts. I absolutely adored the interaction with Kit and her 2 dads Peyton and Sig. They really have no filter and are quite happy to discuss their own sex life and that of their daughter, much to the horror of Kit many times.
A bit of background to the story – Kit and Sebastian meet and have a wild passionate night in Vegas but don’t as much as exchange their names with each other. Fast forward 2 years and Kit is hired as an intern in Sebastian’s wine business. Let’s just say that their night 2 years previously has never left either of their minds and has changed both their lives in many ways.
Can Sebastian and Kit take up where they left off, considering that Sebastian is now her boss? Is Sebastian willing to let a woman get close to him after he has sworn off relationships when he discovered his long term girlfriend with another guy?

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Squall Line (The Inland Seas Series Book One) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Squall Line (The Inland Seas #1)Squall Line by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Squall Line is the first book in The Inland Seas series by Gwyn McNamee. Having read several books by this author before, I had high hopes for this book and the author definitely lived up to my expectations.
Although this is a contemporary romance novel, this book had so much action and suspense too. I was gripped into the story from the very first page and hooked right up to the end wondering how Warwick and his team were going to survive and escape the wrath of the evil Arturo.
The sexual chemistry which simmers between Warwick and Grace is compelling and you can’t help get drawn into the angst between the 2 of them.
I loved the other guys in Warwick’s team. They were not just secondary characters, they added so much to the story and I look forward to getting to know these guys better in the rest of this series.
I have to make one comment about the ending…WTF!! There better be more of Grace and Warwick in the remaining books in this series as there is one ‘little’ question I need the answer to. NOW!

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Alex: An Eidolon Black Ops Novel by Maddie Wade – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Alex: An Eidolon Black Ops NovelAlex: An Eidolon Black Ops Novel by Maddie Wade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Alex is the first book in the exciting new Eidolon Black Ops series by Maddie Wade. Having already read the Fortis security series and the Tightrope series by this author, I knew I was in for a treat and I was not disappointed in the slightest.
We had already been introduced to the Eidolon guys in the Fortis Security books and I was looking forward to getting to know these guys better. I loved that this book included the Fortis guys and the ladies from the Zenobi group as these were characters I had come to know and love in previous books by this author.
This book centres around the story of Alex Martinez from Eidolon and Evelyn Garcia from Zenobi. Alex and Evelyn had been childhood sweethearts and were engaged to marry when Evelyn went missing, presumed dead. Fast forward 15 years and Alex is assigned to find and save Evelyn from a threat to execute her.
This book is very fast paced and action packed. The story will have you gripped from the very first page, something I find with all of Maddie Wade’s books. She really knows how to write a damn fantastic romantic thriller. The sexual attraction between Alex and Evelyn is hot, off the charts, both of them still deeply in love with the other. Can they keep each other alive with the major threats they are facing?
I would definitely recommend this book to all readers. In fact, I would recommend anything that this author has written. I’ve loved every book of hers that I’ve read so far.

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Unraveled by Aubrey Bondurant – Review by Karyn Taylor

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UnraveledUnraveled by Aubrey Bondurant
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Unraveled is an emotional, heart wrenching romance novel by Aubrey Bondurant. Before you sit down to read this book, ensure that you have plenty of tissues with you as you will definitely need them. This book had me sobbing like a baby. I have read other books by this author but Unraveled is my favourite that I have read so far.
You know you are having a really, really bad day when you discover you have breast cancer, your boss is a complete ass when you tell him you need time off, then you go home and find your boyfriend having sex with someone else. When the book you are reading starts this way then you know you are in for a damn good read and that’s what you get from Unraveled.
I just loved the way this book was written. The 2 main characters Layla and Kellan were fantastic. You just couldn’t help but totally fall in love with Kellan. He’s just so adorable. I was gripped to the story from the very first page and did not want to put it down (damn having to go to work!). I would definitely recommend this book to others.

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Out of the Box Collection by Jennifer Theriot – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Out of the Box CollectionOut of the Box Collection by Jennifer Theriot
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Out Of The Box Collection by Jennifer Theriot contains the 3 full length novels Awakening, Re-gifted and Everlasting in one collection. I have read several books by this author but this collection has become my favourite. I love that Jennifer Theriot often writes about older characters instead of the usual 20 and 30 somethings that most novels contain these days.
This box set centres around 60 year old Ash and 57 year old Olivia who find true love later in life when Olivia’s husband of 30 years dumps her for a younger women. Another thing I loved about this collection is the secondary characters. Olivia’s 3 children, Ash’s 3 children, the members of Tommy’s band and all their significant others all play a vital role in the series. They are not just secondary characters. We get to delve deeply into their lives too and they are a very valuable addition to the story. The series just wouldn’t be as good without these characters.
One of the main themes from this series is just how important family and close friends are. I loved the bond that existed between all the siblings and the boys in the band. There was such amazing camaraderie between them all. Special mention has to be made for Todd, he is adorable and made me laugh so much.
I also have to add that Theriot throws several curveballs at you. Just when you think you know where a particular storyline is leading…boom! You are taken on a different journey. I will admit that several times I really wanted to kick the author’s backside when she threw in a WTF!! Moment.
This collection is definitely a 5 star read. I LOVED it.

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