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Fatal Legislation: A Novel: Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 2 by Ellen Butler – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Fatal Legislation: A Novel: Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 2Fatal Legislation: A Novel: Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 2 by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When someone drops dead right in front of her, Karina just can’t help jumping in with both feet to solve the mystery and get some answers. These FBI and police should just thank their lucky stars she’s so snoopy, because she really is helpful. I mean, she does land herself in some trouble along the way, and she makes me laugh. This was fast paced and I didnt want to put it down. Such a fun read. I really got lost in the story.

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The Debt Collector: An Underground Bad Boys Romance by India Kells – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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The Debt Collector (An Underground Bad Boys Romance)The Debt Collector by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Debt Collector was one part darkness, one part suspense, ten parts extreme heat! Yowza! I mean, you kind of could guess that from the cover. But basically, there’s Tessa, who gets herself in a sticky situation and has to work something out with Locke, who can be hard to read. Is he good? Can she trust him? Then there’s his friend. Oh and they are all so very friendly. I enjoyed this and appreciated how Tessa didn’t back down when it came to demanding to be treated well.

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For the Love of Laura Beth (A Chicago Christmas book 4) by Aubrey Wynne – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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For the Love of Laura BethFor the Love of Laura Beth by Aubrey Wynne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

For the love of Laura Beth is an emotional read. It takes place in the past, during war, and these two go through a lot during the book, not just the struggles of war. Through it all, their love for one another is strong and sturdy. It was beautiful and sometimes sad. I cried and my heart broke for them. It ends with a well earned happy ever after.

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Hometown Heroes: A Christmas Anthology by Carrie Dalby, Chelsi Arnold, Cj Petterson, E.A. Hale, JD Boudreaux, Jolie St. Armant – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Hometown Heroes: A Christmas AnthologyHometown Heroes: A Christmas Anthology by Carrie Dalby
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hometown Heroes has a good mix of stories centered around Christmas, heroes, and love. It has a little somethin for everyone. Courtship and courage is a historical romance with a sassy girl and a determined boat captain, centered around Christmas. I like how he’s making all his choices to be ready for a future with her, it’s sweet. When time stood still is sort of an opposites attract situation. These two were meant to meet, it was fate. Though they definitely butted heads for sure. Safe Haven takes place at this hotel I’ve read about before. All sorts of paranormal things going on, but falling in love is what it’s all about. Such a fun and sweet story.

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Snatching Dianna (Feisty Lawyers Book 1) by Seelie Kay – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Snatching Dianna (Feisty Lawyers, #1)Snatching Dianna by Seelie Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Snatching Dianna was action packed and interesting. It almost seemed like it couldn’t be the first book in this series, as the characters already have such developed relationships. It feels like each book may take you on a fast paced adventure, fighting crimes and saving lives. The personalities of the lawyers, spooks, etc were strong, sassy, and fun. The dirty scenes were hot, but kind of out of place? They were enjoyable but distracting to the action a bit. Overall, a good read and a good start to a series.

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Leaving Jackson Wolf by P.A. Kane – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Leaving Jackson WolfLeaving Jackson Wolf by P.A. Kane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Leaving Jackson Wolf is a pretty serious story about a high school boy going through some pretty life-changing moments. Some were bigger than others, but that time in high school, the people you are surrounded with, the way you view yourself and the world? There’s just so much going on, and it affects who you become as an adult. This was also pretty political, a modern day snapshot of how things are for our youth and how the adult decisions affect them. I found this enjoyable, emotional, and interesting.

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A Frothy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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A Frothy Christmas KissA Frothy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dan and Kat have a cute, caffeinated love story. I would have liked an epilogue, maybe a future family Christmas. It was actually kind of angsty, riddled with misunderstandings and a coffee shop I’d die to try! This is a short, sweet holiday romance, with a unique feline twist, and I really enjoyed reading it.

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Guilty Pleasures Volume 2: Guilty Pleasures by Joyce McCarthy – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Guilty Pleasures Volume 2Guilty Pleasures Volume 2 by Joyce McCarthy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Guilty Pleasures 2 is a short, onehanded read sure to have something that interests you in one of the chapters. They run more along the lines of a young guy’s fantasies than my own, but still hot and well written. It’s quick, can be read in one sitting. These aren’t full stories, more like dirty bits. Good night time reading.

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A Pink Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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A Pink Christmas KissA Pink Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ok, first of all, pink is my favorite color! And second chance romances are right up there. And Christmas romances? They are my jam. So this is just everything. Poor Billie had set down a path that wasn’t for her, and due to stubbornness and misunderstandings, stuck with it. When she runs into her ex, they just can’t seem to communicate- it’s a mess! I love the car, though. And I feel like it was just as much about her finding her place as it was about the love.

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Healing Danger: A Fortis Security Novel Book 1 (Fortis Security Series) by Maddie Wade – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Healing Danger (Fortis Security #1)Healing Danger by Maddie Wade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Funny enough, I have read a bunch of these by now but not the first couple. So it’s like going back to how it all started. I’ve seen mentioned in future books all that happened with Daniel and Claire, now I know more of that. I also now have a much clearer picture of so many involved in Fortis. Lauren and Dane are the main focus in book one. They’ve always had a connection but of COURSE he pulls away to protect her. Dumb men, I swear. Lots of action, and it’s just the beginning of the big bad Divine Watchers. If you haven’t dived into this series yet, I recommend it. Such a good read.

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Beachcomber Gone: Beachcomber Investigations Book 9: a Romantic Detective Series by Stephanie Queen – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Beachcomber GoneBeachcomber Gone by Stephanie Queen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dane and Shana find trouble where ever they go! Of course they can’t just take a simple visit to see her family. And they’re engaged but I want their wedding! I’m greedy like that. Things get crazy when they get to Australia, an old crime is trying to pin itself to them, and the news spreads the lies. See? Crazy. I like Shana’s brother, I feel like it would be fun to read more about him. Lots of action, adventure, and surprises in book 9.

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Eastern Shore Swingers Books 1-3 (Boxed Set) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Eastern Shore Swingers Books 1-3 (Boxed Set)Eastern Shore Swingers Books 1-3 by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Eastern Shore Swingers are a steamy bunch! Filled with titillating love stories where real feelings are at the core. It’s just a lifestyle, people, but there’s more to it. Leah and Cap seemed like an unlikely match to me at first, but he draws something out of her. Paisley is pretty reluctant to do any more than casual, but Calvin has a calm confidence that makes all the difference. Jessie and Sirena were definitely a surprise. Each story has surprise elements and an action/ adventure feel. If you haven’t started these yet, a box set is really the best deal.

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Only This Tuesday: A Copper Mills Novella by Melissa Keir – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Only This Tuesday: A Copper Mills NovellaOnly This Tuesday: A Copper Mills Novella by Melissa Keir
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a sweet read. There was heat, but it was also a fast-paced love story. Tuesday (cute name) runs a taco truck and has a huge heart, but her good deeds get twisted by Blake’s malicious ex. I appreciate how close knit the town is and the feel of it all. I love their connection and their meet cute story. I read this in one sitting and I’d read more about couples in this town for sure.

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A Tangy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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A Tangy Christmas KissA Tangy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have to admit the title of this is odd and I had to wonder how in the world it would be relevant. Mel is having some seriously bad luck this holiday! One thing after another going wrong, a traveler’s worst nightmare, followed by a bunch of mishaps and surprises. But the shining light in it all is the budding romance between her and a completely non English-speaking sweet man. Well, there are two men there to help her out and it’s tough for her, confused and floundering in a strange country at Christmas. But the end is so holiday happy, over the top, happy ever after. Full of all things Christmas joy.

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Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Isabella's Painting (Karina Cardinal Mystery #1)Isabella’s Painting by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isabella’s Painting was a fun mystery story. Karina gets caught up in an old Painting Heist mystery when she stumbles upon a stolen piece at Christmas. It’s in her boyfriend’s parents’ house, so that adds a whole other element. Then she runs into an old friend and things just kind of get crazier from there. One thing I appreciate in this story is Karina’s strong personality. She’s solid, independent, has a good head on her shoulders. I found the characters interesting and the story entertaining.

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The Killmores by Martha Sweeney – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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The Killmores (Killmore #2)The Killmores by Martha Sweeney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well, I’m pleasantly surprised. It almost feels like book one was a warm up to this epically action-packed adventure! The Killmores is a fast paced, suspenseful love story, filled with a ton of twists and surprises. It was a fun ride, and really enjoyable to read. I’ll warn you there are some dark moments, as Laurie wrestles with her demons. But on the other side of the coin, it amuses me, the situations she finds herself in, in relation to the various men who show interest in her. Laurie must be quite irresistible! Aiden is still a super good guy, just wanting to save the day. He’s a good book boyfriend. I really loved this.

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Cowboy: Claimed Box Set by Various Authors – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Cowboy: ClaimedCowboy: Claimed by Melissa Keir, Cheryl Gorman, Leslie P. Garcia, Becca Turner, Lyssa Layne, D’Ann Lindun
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh boy- Cowboy Claimed is a collection of fast paced love with cowboys who are sweet as well as hot. The very first story has the added element of suspense, plus puppies! The next story has a sweet guy who’s still close with his family and can cook. There’s a former Marine and movie star, there’s second chances and holidays… it’s a good mix. For once I liked each book in a collection, and they’re all a good length, readable in a sitting. All new to me authors who I would read again.

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Killmore by Martha Sweeney – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Killmore (Killmore #1)Killmore by Martha Sweeney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Killmore starts off with a BANG of action. Then it lets you get comfortable for awhile. It’s hard to get a read on Laurie, I don’t know how I totally feel about her and still feel like she has secrets. She definitely has a tough outer shell to crack but cares deeply for those in her inner circle. Aiden, Paul, who can you trust? They both seem genuine and Aiden kind of wears his heart on his sleeve, but I still have a lot of questions. I feel like Dr. Codie wasn’t a fully resolved issue, maybe all these things are cleared up in book two. I’d call this a happy for now ending, with enough suspense, intrigue, and puzzle to keep me on the hook.

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Burning Night: where the ashes of the past awaken the future by Nikki Broadwell – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Burning Night: where the ashes of the past awaken the futureBurning Night: where the ashes of the past awaken the future by Nikki Broadwell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Burning Night was a unique story, I really enjoyed a lot of the moments you can’t explain, the events people won’t believe. There were mystical forces at play, more along the lines of spiritual happenings. That part was crazy interesting. I felt like Collie had courage to leave her husband and push forward on this adventure. I did have a bit of trouble connecting with the characters and they all had actions I didn’t totally agree with or understand. Not sure if that is just more realistic, but even Collie, I wanted to shake sometimes. She’s been through a lot in her life, though. All in all, it was an interesting story.

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Once Upon a Romance (A Dream Come True book 1) by Alex Bailey – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Once Upon a Romance (A Dream Come True, #1)Once Upon a Romance by Alex Bailey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Once Upon a Romance brings the magic of the holidays back. It brought forth the feelings of joy and love and warm fuzzies. Also, it reminded me of the wonder of Disney, like it was when I was younger. Sophie seems to be the one in need of change and almost rescuing, she’s kind of broken and going through the motions, and her only real joy comes from spending time with her niece. Ray is a breath of fresh air and it’s amazing they end up on this journey together. Things do get emotional and touching in all the ways you want in a holiday novel. It has a happy ever after, though I wish I got an epilogue or just more of them. It was that good.

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Embattled Hearts (Military Romantic Suspense) (Lost and Found book 1) By J.M. Madden – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Embattled Hearts (Lost and Found, #1)Embattled Hearts by J.M. Madden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Embattled Hearts is the first in a series and I honestly couldn’t put it down. I was surprised it was book one, as I felt like I know these characters already. I don’t know if that makes sense but they were just so complex, personality wise, and developed. Anyways, John is an abrupt and grumpy guy, he has some self esteem issues to work through and can be kind of a bear. Shannon mostly rolls with it, though, and I feel like the fact that she communicates so well is ultimately what helps them get through anything. It was interesting to see the struggles people can go through after getting hurt in the military, but also how they can form a commeradery. There was the suspense element to this book, as well, and a mystery of who is doing these things and why. All around, I found it enjoyable and look forward to the rest of the stories.

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Deadly Alliance: A Fortis/Purgatory Crossover Novel by Maddie Wade and India Kells – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Deadly Alliance: A Fortis/Purgatory Crossover NovelDeadly Alliance: A Fortis/Purgatory Crossover Novel by Maddie Wade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Deadly Alliance is a crossover of Fortis and Purgatory. I haven’t read any of the Purgatory books but I’ve read a few Fortis books and loved them. They are action packed, with a tight knit team who all have awesome skills. This has the same vibe. There’s also always a love story, and this time it’s Emme and Shane. They are from opposite ends of the world but are together to bring down a bad guy. Of course posing as a married couple will bring two people together, and add in some serious attraction and you get fireworks! This book was fast paced, suspenseful, and sometimes shocking. I wonder where the author will lead us all next?

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Courage (The Sisterhood Series) by Chelsi Arnold – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Courage (The Sisterhood Series #2)Courage by Chelsi Arnold
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Courage is book two in the series so the first thing I want to say is go back and read Brave first if you haven’t. Okay, so, the girls are just as fierce as ever. War is going strong, and these ladies do the most secret, dangerous stuff. Fighting for a country that’s fighting itself and the world, there are so many layers to this and it’s disturbing, action-packed, and a definite page turner. I was on the edge of my seat for most of the book, but in tears for a good portion of it, too. It’s a really impactful story.

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The First Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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The First Backwards ChristmasThe First Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The first backwards Christmas is a touching and creative holiday tale! Located in the South Pole, a couple has to find ways to keep the town going and stay together. All the things the town come up with are unexpected, endearing, and sound really fun. This is a great feel good story for this time of year. Something perfect to read as you snuggle under your blanket with a cup of hot chocolate.

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Calling the Curveball: a Lawson Family Novel by Tracey Cramer-Kelly – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Calling the CurveballCalling the Curveball by Tracey Cramer-Kelly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Calling the Curveball was more emotional than I was expecting. In a good way. Jamie has a lot to work through from his past still, luckily Kira is very patient and mature about it all. I love small town love stories and hope the next books have the same sort of feel to them. You know, where everyone knows your business and you have family and friends all over who are close knit. Anyways, these two take things very slow but there are strong feelings there and a good story. I look forward to book 2.

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Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3) by Desiree Lafawn – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3)Jesse by Desiree Lafawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Do you ever come across an author who, every time you read them, makes you love them even more? This is one such author for me. Jesse was soooo funny at times, making me laugh loudly and get funny looks. Beyond that, though, is good story. It has characters from previous books but can be read totally on it’s own. Jesse is sweet but also delicious, and Harlow is such a good mom and deserves every moment of happiness coming to her, especially since she has raised such an awesome little boy. Things get a little crazy near the end, which I kind of figured they would. And I was in tears at one point. I just loved this hard.

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Hard as Steel (Surviving Series #4) by Virginia Wine – Review By Lisa Boltiador

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Hard as Steel: Book four (Hard as Steel: Book four by Virginia Wine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hard as Steel may be book four in a series, but I was able to read it as a stand alone. Steel and Nichole are falling for one another, while working on a disturbing case. The love story part of this is easy, but the real interest lies in the mystery girl who has to recover her memories. Those parts were my favorite. The action and suspense really pick up near the end, and I could see myself reading the next book. The only thing that kept this from 5 stars was that the writing and grammar were choppy or a little rough at times. But I loved the poems throughout.

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Savannah’s Saviors (The Cowboys of Cavern County book 5) by Bella Settarra – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Savannah's Saviors (Cowboys of Cavern County, #5)Savannah’s Saviors by Bella Settarra
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Savannah’s Saviors is a romantic and somewhat steamy cowboy romance, featuring two guys and one lucky lady. Well, I say that, but up until now she’s been super unlucky. And now she has walls up, is defensive, and keeps her cards close to her vest. Not that the guys don’t have secrets, too. This is pretty fast paced, with lots of action, intrigue, suspense, and of course- love. I like how everyone in this small community pull together, aside from a couple rotten seeds. It makes me interested enough to check out more stories. But I did read it as a stand alone with no problems.

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Sailors Knot (Eastern Shore Swingers Book 4) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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Sailors Knot (Eastern Shore Swingers Book 4)Sailors Knot by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sailors Knot is the most emotional in this series yet. I cried through half of it. I’m all about the second chance, and all the feels that come with it. Not to mention, this is Casey’s story, and shes always been such a strong personality. Watching her fight this illness was so hard for me, because I really feel connected to these characters now. Even with everything she’s going through, she pulls up all the reserves to dole out advice and support to her friends when they come visit. There were some super delicious love scenes, fantastically descriptive and steamy. And I hope to see more about her sister in the future. But it all boils down to love, friendship, and finding strength within.

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Neverland by Melissa Jane – Review by Lisa Boltiador

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NeverlandNeverland by Melissa Jane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Neverland is not an easy story to read. It’s full of torment and sadness and unthinkable acts. This is the dark swirling abyss of the Underworld, the seedy underbelly, the lives of those from broken homes and bad circumstances. Right and wrong have no place here. So much evil in this one book. So much destruction. Tiny moments of hope that only get ripped away. If you are in the mood for mobsters, strippers, thugs, and more, read this. It made me sad and stressed and got my heart pumping.

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