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Untrainable by Jamie Schlosser – Review by Lisa Helmick

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UntrainableUntrainable by Jamie Schlosser
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Untrainable by Jamie Schlosser
Rated 5 stars!!

OMG! This book! I am either laughing, grinning or shaking my head at every turn of the page! I loved how this started out..meeting the characters. Then how they meshed together…it felt very natural. I couldn’t help but enjoy Theo. He has such determination. To better himself and to date Hadley. His life goals. I love how “all in” he seems to be. How he easily reads her and he is just so….such an amazing character. Hadley Is a smart woman with surprising skills in all kinds of things. Her quirks are cute and her family is amazing. She was a joy to meet and get to know. I couldn’t picture a better match for Theo.

The author did a wonderful job describing the characters. I can easily picture them in my head. All their quirks and facial expressions. I didn’t mention earlier but their last names are perfect. Every detail was taken charge of in this story. I have many passages highlighted in here. There are just so many crazy fun times and sweet lovely moments.

I really can’t stress how enjoyable this book is. It is a delight to read and I am so glad I picked it up! I have read just about all of this authors books. This is my favorite by far and will be going on my re-read shelf. I will be highly recommending this book to friends/readers who love great characters, witty storylines and love smiling and laughing while reading.

Review by @lisahelmick

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Awakening of a Soul Keeper – Prequel to the Soul Keeper Series by Brienne Dubh – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Awakening Of A Soul Keeper - Prequel to the Soul Keeper SeriesAwakening Of A Soul Keeper – Prequel to the Soul Keeper Series by Brienne Dubh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Awakening of a Soul Keeper- Prequel to the Soul Keeper Series
By Brienne Dubh
Rated 5 stars!

Wow! What a great beginning to a new series! I was drawn in by the lure of a sweet vampire story. Then the characters became alive and i could hardly put this down. The story is unlike any other I have read. All because of Sam. He is the husband to the Soul Keeper. Every twist and turn I wanted to see what would happen to Sam or Theodora or even Lyzander next. I read this fairly quickly and I can not wait for the next one to come out!

This is a first time author for me. It was beautifully written and full of intrigue. Just enough Info given to keep me on the edge…begging for more. The story was different (meaning who ever heard of a third wheel on a vampires mate??) but well done. The characters were sassy, bossy and strong. I loved it all! So so glad I picked up this book on a whim!

Review by @lisahelmick

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Snatching Dianna by Seelie Kay – Review by Lisa Helmick

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

Snatching Dianna (Feisty Lawyers #1)
By Seelie Kay
Rated 4 stars

This is a action packed short story. It drew my attention at the beginning and held it all the way to the end. The story was riveting. The characters were so fun and comfortable. I enjoyed all the banter between them. It wasn’t stiff dialogue. Very smooth and easy to read. This book does touch on a subject that could be a trigger for some people. Human trafficking is a touchy subject. It was handled nicely here.

This is my first book by this author. I enjoyed it but at times felt I missed out on the characters other escapades. It makes me want to look for their other stories.

@lisahelmick

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Reckless-An Anthology by Mika Jolie, Kylie Stewart, P.M. Carson, Sharla Lovelace – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Reckless - An AnthologyReckless – An Anthology by Mika Jolie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Reckless-An Anthology
By Mika Jolie, Kylie Stewart, P.M. Carson, Sharla Lovelace
Rated 5 stars

This is a steam…steam….steamy group of stories. These are four stories In this book. There are three new to me authors and one whose stories I deeply enjoy. The first two are May-December romances. The third one is a dating site romance and lastly is a little action as a spy story.

All of these stories were well written and all the characters were interesting. One thing I enjoyed in all these books was how the theme of Reckless ran through them. Whether it was a person or an action, it was woven in well. Each book had some type of drama and a few made me chuckle. I am not a usual fan of May-December romances. But these were nicely done and covered a few of the issues I have with them. Although being rich might help sway some of those problems or maybe not. Dirty Martinis by P.M. Carson had me tearing up a bit. I enjoyed these characters because I really felt they took a chance and put themselves out there. The Spy who Kissed Me by Sharla Lovelace had some action and suspense which I love in a book. Plus some lovely military peeps. My favorite is Layla’s Chance by Mika Jolie. It was nice going back to visit the characters in her Martha’s Vineyard series. Last but certainly not least is Into the Deep by Kylie Stewart. This is a deliciously enjoyable and fast paced story.

This book covers quite a few different themes with one main one running through all the stories. These stories have fierce, independent females and strong, alpha males. They were all enjoyable and I would recommend to any reader who likes some spice with their story.

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

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A Tangy Christmas KissA Tangy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Tangy Christmas Kiss
By Allyson R. Abbott
Rated 4 stars

Mel is a city girl who has been temporarily transplanted to a farm. She has quite the time trying to learn the ins and outs. Thankfully she has the next door neighbor to help her out. As well as a handsome stranger she met at the airport. I did much chuckling at the antics this poor girl got herself into. I will also say I will never think of lemons the same way again after reading this!

This is a sweet little Christmas story. The characters are fun and interesting. The story dragged for me a bit but the sped up and it got more engaging. I do recommend this if you are looking for a fun, flirty Christmas story.

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A Prickly Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott – Review by Lisa Helmick

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A Prickly Christmas KissA Prickly Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Prickly Christmas Kiss
By Allyson R. Abbott
Rated 4 stars

Emma Louise Fallon or more affectionately known as ELF is planning on a Christmas vacation in a cabin outside of North Polerton with her friend Carla. Carla calls with car trouble so she won’t be able to come. ELF ventures on by herself. On the way she stops in Polerton to get gas and meet a couple who she thinks are Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus. Once she get to the cabin she can’t believe how rustic it is. No light or heat or running water. A stray cat showed up and he seemed to help ELF when she needed it most. She starting thinking of him as a magical cat. She met a cop/town vet named Rudi with a swollen nose. He thought to help her survive out in the cabin and show her how to keep warm.
This was a cute Christmas story with a little bit a magic in it. I enjoyed the way the author made the town like the North Pole. Including all kinds of characters that would be involved with Santa. I was even suspicious of the random reindeer in the forest.

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Claiming Her Mates by Dia Cole – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Claiming Her Mates (Claiming Her Mates #1)Claiming Her Mates by Dia Cole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Claiming Her Mates (Claiming Her Mates #1)
By Dia Cole
Rated 5 stars

Holy smokes not only is this book so H-O-T that I could hardly put it down but the story is crazy good resulting in the same problem.
I couldn’t put this book down!

These characters are are so lovable. From the first meeting they drew me in. Havana with her strong will and Liam, Gabe and Mason each have amazing qualities all their own. I love a good shifter story and this is one. It moved along at a good pace and I was able to meet each character in a timely manner. Therefore I got a good feel of each before moving onto the next.

This has a “for now” ending. Meaning we don’t have answers to many of the questions and thoughts that were raised during the book. So while not a cliffhanger not completely satisfying either. I would be curious what happens when a couple things( that I can’t mention) happen. It’s definitely a great quick read!

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A Second Chance (The Powder River Pack #1) by Brooke May – Review by Lisa Helmick

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A Second Chance (The Powder River Pack #1)A Second Chance by Brooke May
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A Second Chance (The Powder River Pack #1)
By Brooke May
Rated 3 stars

The actual story is very enjoyable. The whole wolf and mate thing is perfect. The characters are good but there is one who steals the book. Spence! He is a wonderful character. He makes me laugh and want to know more about him. I did enjoy the boys in the pack as well. Their little pow wows with Derek…..priceless.

There are a few things I am not a fan of in this book. I don’t care for the repeats at the beginning of each chapter. I am in the moment and anxious for the story to move forward after the last comment or thought in the previous chapter. I don’t want the brakes applied. I feel it should basically pick up where the last scene left off and let the momentum carry me forward. This type of writing leads me to skipping ahead and being bored. There is also a lot of narrative and too much thinking. I enjoy dialogue so much more. I just didn’t feel a connection to the characters….well maybe Derek. I also was left with a few unanswered questions.

Again this is a good story with a few things i don’t care for. The idea and characters were good and that Spence…he was golden! I enjoy paranormal romance and wolf shifters are my fav. This one just fell flat for me

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Santa’s Little Helper by Shaan Ranae – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Santa's Little HelperSanta’s Little Helper by Shaan Ranae
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Santa’s Little Helper
By Shaan Ranae
Rated 5 stars

This is the cutest story! Full of Christmas fun and cheer! There were so many things that made me laugh and smile. The story flowed very nicely and easily kept me entertained. The characters are fun and sexy. Jake made me laugh with his antics and his terror of children…err I mean the little germ carriers. His thoughts on children are they are cute…..from far away. Sam is a is a fiery redhead who also is Santa’s little helper. When problems arise with the stores Santa it’s up to Sam and Jake to get everything running smoothly.

This is a first time author for me and I wouldn’t hesitate to read another. Her characters were colorful and endearing. The story was heartfelt and fun. It’s short but worth it for a little Christmas fun.

Review by @lisahelmick
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Caught in Make-Believe by Sharleen Scott – Review By Lisa Helmick

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Caught in Make-Believe (The Caught Series Book 3)Caught in Make-Believe by Sharleen Scott
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Caught in Make-Believe (The Caught Series Book 3)
By Sharleen Scott
Rated 3 stars

The beginning seemed slow to me. There was a lot of setting the scene and meeting new (to me) people. I started a list to keep them straight then realized that a few were related. This is the third series in a book and I have not read the first two. That might have helped a bit in the confusion area.

Once the two main characters becomes tangled up with each other the story picked up a bit. This is a romantic suspense and I wasn’t sure where the suspense was until about half way through. Then it seemed mostly suspense and not much romance. I am not sure what it is about this story but I can’t seem to connect with the characters. I don’t care about them so this fell flat for me.

As mentioned this is the third in the series and maybe if I had read the first two I might be better off. Maybe I would be able to connect better. I did like the advice that Jace gave Samantha on writing.

Review by @lisahelmick
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Felicity Found (Rogue Series Book 6) by Lara Ward Cosio – Review By Lisa Helmick

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Felicity Found (Rogue Series Book 6)Felicity Found by Lara Ward Cosio
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Felicity Found (Rogue Series Book 6)
By Lara Ward Cosio
Rated 5 stars!!

Another amazing heartfelt story by Lara Ward Cosio! I absolutely loved it! This book has it all! Love, lust, drama, betrayal and love. Yes I mentioned love again because these stories are full of love of spouse, friend and family. It astounds me how drawn I get to the story that I get irritated when I have to leave the book and….oh you know…live life. So I tend to power through as fast as I can to avoid interruptions. This leads to late night or all night reading or sneaking off just to finish this book.

It’s not until I open one of these books that I realize how much I miss these characters. I am easily drawn back into their lives and fervently hope and wish for things to turn out. At the time of reading book one (Tangled Up in You) and book two (Playing at Love) of the series I was thinking GAH too much information but now I realize how those books really made me a part of their lives. I am easily able to understand and know how, why and what these characters are talking about or feeling….like they are my family.

Although Conor really put me through the ringer in this book. One minute I was pleased with him then the next frustration beyond belief! His flirting and fantasies (Grr!) but then he also has concern of his wife and love of his family. The struggle that Felicity and Conor have is real. Each had their own issues and I could relate to many things brought up in the book.

I have always loved the bond that Gavin and Conor have. It has been tested and tried through the years but has always weathered the storm. But to see them in the park in this book?? These two guys…….bring tears to my eyes they have come so far. I am so glad they were friends from way back and cultivated their friendship to being so unbreakable. Wonderful job on these two!

This is an outstanding addition to the series. It’s great to see how all the characters have grown and improved through the series. This is a favorite series of mine. So thank you to the author for bringing this crew into my life.

Review by @lisahelmick

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

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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: 5 of 5 stars

Burning Night: Where the Ashes of the Past Awaken the Future
By Nikki Broadwell
Rated 5 stars

This is a great story! The writing is so smooth and it dragged me into the story. I had concern for Callie as well as I enjoyed her adventure into the wilderness. These are real places so I could easily identified with them and it made her more of a relatable character.

The characters are full of flavor and life. I enjoyed seeing/meeting them and often wondered how they were going to fare by the stories end. The main character is a strong but undecided in her future. She has many irons in the fire. I enjoyed her spiritual adventure as well as her physical journey. The things she did and saw was simply amazing! Kudos to her for taking control!

This is my second book by this author. I enjoy her writing style. She engages me fairly quickly. Her characters have life and style. They cause me to *feel* for them and care about what happens to them. This is a simply wonderful story that I would recommend to anyone.

Review by @lisahelmick
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A Must for Christmas: A Darling Cove Novella by Deborah Garland – Review by Lisa Helmick

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A Must for Christmas: A Darling Cove NovellaA Must for Christmas: A Darling Cove Novella by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Must for Christmas: A Darling Cove Novella
By Deborah Garland
Rated 5 stars

This is a story filled with characters about strong family ties. It also gives me a feeling of the love between not only the main characters but also the whole family. It’s nice to see Greg and Faith again. She is pregnant with twins and they have just come back from Skye and Edwards wedding. Then all heck breaks loose. Can they recover together or will they lose faith?

I loved seeing all the characters from the previous books in here. This family has such an amazing bond between them. Each has had a disconnect for a bit but they have all come back. When there are times of need? They all cover for each other. The guys…well their bonding has its fun times. They girls….give good advice. I particularly liked the relationship Greg has always had with his Dad. This one shows so much of that love between them and (hopefully Greg can carry that forward.

This story made me a little emotional at times. I also chuckled a few. Hopefully this isn’t the last in the series but maybe Lily can get a story now and we can still touch base with a few of these wonderful characters!

If you have read the previous series you will enjoy this. If you have not read the series you will enjoy it as well but maybe not have such a deep understanding of the characters. Either way it a great read!

Review by @lisahelmick
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Embattled Hearts (Lost and Found #1) by J.M. Madden – Review by Lisa Helmick

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

Embattled Hearts (Lost and Found #1)
By J.M. Madden
Rated 5 stars

This is a romantic suspense story. I loved all these guys! Who doesn’t have a soft spot for military men??? These are men who have been damaged physically as well as mentally. They are now just trying to get by and survive day by day. So opening Lost N Found Investigative has helped them all.

John was an amazing character even though he was grumpy and hates people. I loved being inside his head and seeing all the angst and turmoil boiling through his veins. I could easily understand his feelings. His childhood to his adulthood…he is one who slipped through and came out blazing on the other side.

Shannon is a wonder herself. She has a soft heart and loves to cook for those men. She is a woman with a past. It’s been under wraps but now it’s coming back to haunt her. She was so so good for John. Shannon is very confident and that is what John needs.

There were side stories which include one with Duncan and one with Chad, Zeke and a few others. They were all interesting but I think Chad, Zeke and crew were great and What a fun way to get to know them. I am seeing possible future stories here.

This is a first time author for me. The story flowed nicely and the characters were strong. I am loving this crew so I can’t wait to read the next one….preview in the back so I got a Sneak Peak!!!!

Review by @lisahelmick
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The Killmores by Martha Sweeney – Review by Lisa Helmick

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

The Killmores (Killmore #2)
By Martha Sweeney
Rated 5 stars!!

Blows my mind!! This book is the EPIC second book to Killmore. I was entranced by the great storytelling and amazing characters. I could not put this down. Especially during a couple tense times for the characters. Many time I was “ohhh” and “What?” Or “!!!!!” (insert swear word here). I couldn’t decide whether to read fast because it’s so dang good or slow to prolong the feelings. I was surprised and impressed at some of the activities and things that happened to these characters. Shocked is more like it.

I love that Laurie is still the same snarky bad-a$$ that she was in the first one. Yes she has demons that plague her but with Aiden and the dogs she has some relief. I love how she is always thinking one step ahead.

Aiden….well you are my hero! The LOVE you feel for her….is coming off the pages! I can’t get enough of you! I love everything you are and everything you do to save your life and your love. You are one in a million my friend!

This book changed my thoughts on some of the characters we previously met. Which is a positive thing for a reader. That the author can change my mind? Good writing! There were some new characters to enjoy as well. I loved the military buddies of Aiden. They have a great friendship and I love how they joke around together. Best buds for sure!

This is an outstanding read that I highly recommend. Make sure you read Killmore first to understand some things better in this book. Martha Sweeney is fast becoming a one-click author for me. The afterword makes me wonder what could happen next?? Questions….I have a few….

PS—love the cover!!

Review by @lisahelmick
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Only This Tuesday: A Copper Mills Novella by Melissa Keir – Review By Lisa Helmick

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Only This Tuesday: A Copper Mills NovellaOnly This Tuesday: A Copper Mills Novella by Melissa Keir
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Only This Tuesday: A Copper Mills Novella
By Melissa Keir
Rated 4 stars

This is a cute story from the town of Cooper Mills. I was intrigued by the synopsis. I liked that it was about a food truck owner. Tuesday is a great character and she has heart. She does a lovely thing for a young man. She is intelligent, a quick thinker, and loves small town life. I enjoyed how she met the mayor. Very funny! Blake was an interesting guy. Being the mayor has its good and bad sides. I enjoyed how he loved the town and the people who live there. I loved how he acted like a teenager once he met Tuesday. Then again how excited Blake was when Tuesday said “yes” to a dinner date. Soo excited! It made me smile!

This book is a good solid story that is easy to read and moves along at a quick pace. I liked the characters but didn’t really feel a “connection” to them. This is filled with some fun and goofy times as well as a brief touch on a more serious topic. Good read!

Review by @lisahelmick
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Nathaniel (Dragon Hearts #1) by Carole Mortimer – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Nathaniel (Dragon Hearts #1)Nathaniel by Carole Mortimer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nathaniel (Dragon Hearts #1)
By Carole Mortimer
Rated 4 stars

This is a wonderful story. It starts off with a sassy female arguing with a arrogant guy…..about territory. Their little stunt pulled me in and as the story moved forward it just didn’t let go. Sadly i had to go to work during a pivotal point (Deryk showing up) and I couldn’t get home fast enough. The characters were…well…dragons. That is exciting in itself but they also have that side that is Full Man. Encompassing all the irritating man traits mixed with possession and keeping treasure of the dragon side. Equals a story that will never be boring. A couple times I was thinking “He did What? And then dang if Chloe didn’t sass her way right back at him.

This book has it all! Great writing and a wonderful story. Out of this world characters. It just so happens that Nathaniel has seven brothers. All single and looking for their mate. I think there will be some stories in my future. Although we haven’t met them all I can’t wait!

Review by @lisahelmick

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Calling the Curveball by Tracey Cramer-Kelly – Review by Lisa Helmick

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

Calling the Curveball
By Tracey Cramer-Kelly
Rated 5 stars!!

This is an amazing story! This book is full of so many things! I pretty much rode on a roller coaster of emotions while reading. There were fun times and not so fun times. I will say these two main characters impressed me and I would completely be their friend in real life!

Jamie…just Wow! It’s amazing to me how the mind works. You my friend were dealt a woozie! You coped as well as you could until something forced you to change. Sorry I can’t say any more because of spoilers. But just know this man…..rocks! Mira….big city girl! Trying to take a break from her life. She is a strong woman who does what she needs to survive and help her friends pull through tough times. Both of these two are impressive!

I loved Jamie’s family and friends. They are all so understanding of Jamie’s situation. They also liked Kira and supported her along with Jamie….Very Nice! There are a bunch of supporting characters. Some we meet right away and others we meet later. They all are just as important to moving the story forward. I enjoyed how each has their own story or devil on their shoulder that will come out (hopefully) in later books. I am very interested in Ian and Ben…

This is my first book by this author. I enjoyed the story which flowed very nicely. The characters were deep. I can not wait to read the next in this series.

Review by @lisahelmick

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Born to Fight (Can’t Resist You Book 1) by Brittany Anne – Review By Lisa Helmick

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Born to Fight (Can't Resist You, #1)Born to Fight by Brittany Anne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Born to Fight (Can’t Resist You #1)
By Brittany Anne
Rated 5 stars

This is such a good story!! It is fast paced, full of action and suspense. Well…and the romance isn’t too shabby either. It drew me in right at the beginning and I could hardly put this down. I needed to see what was going to happen in this place and to these characters next.

I loved both of the main Characters! Each has some issues and but both grew nicely. I was impressed with Rain. She is a strong, smart, resourceful and impressive. I can’t imagine not seeing a human for 2 years. Hunter is the soldier. It’s all he has ever known…how to fight. He doesn’t know the meaning of the word “Can’t”. Nor has he ever been concerned with “feelings”. When he mentions them to his “brothers”??? It was an interesting conversation because they were all shocked. “Feelings?? Are we allowed to have those?” Made me kind of chuckle.

The secondary characters are an interesting lot. Hunters “brothers” all are great additions and help move the plot along. They are smart, tough and nice but all good looking. I enjoy their time together. I (Hopefully) look forward to them getting their own stories.

This is my first book by this author and I am excited to read more. Especially in this series! The title of the book and the series are perfect. I can see both of them pertaining to this story.

Review by @lisahelmick

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Distant Memory (The Solum Series Book 3) by Colleen S. Myers – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Distant MemoryDistant Memory by Colleen S. Myers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Distant Memory (The Solum Series Book 3)
By Colleen S. Myers
Rated 5 stars

I am so glad to be reading this third book. I can not even explain my feelings after finishing. Happy, Sad, frustrated? Well a bit of all three. The story picks up where the last one left off. Finn has been taken and Beta (Elizabeth) is determined to find him. Her relationship with Marin is still a bit rocky and they each are dealing with trust issues.

This story is full of action! Pretty much from the beginning. It’s also full of twists and turns. Sometimes I wasn’t sure which way I wanted to story to go. I can only imagine poor Elizabeth (Beta) having to make these decisions. I easily became involved in the characters and the story. I had a hard time putting this down. Reading this felt like coming home.

There are a ton a characters. We met many of the new ones in the last book. We are able to revisit with many of them here. While they are all actively involved they don’t Steal the story away from the main characters. I enjoyed all of these characters immensely
(Even Xade). Getting to know them and basically becoming involved in their lives I will miss hanging out with them. Wondering what adventure Beta (Elizabeth) is going to go on next. So rereading is what will be on board for this series.

I kinda felt at loose ends when finishing. So I’m not sure if there will be another in the series or not. I am very glad I found this series and highly recommend it to any science fiction readers with a side of romance.

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Getting the Goods by Elizabeth Perry – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Getting the GoodsGetting the Goods by Elizabeth Perry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Getting the Goods
By Elizabeth Perry
Rated 5 stars!!

OMG! This story! It’s so freaking good! I could NOT put this book down! Whether its from the shocking things that come out of Gabrielle’s mouth or the sexy sweet Conner. I really never know what is going to happen next. I enjoyed the love, friendship, fun times and desperation that filled this book. I really want to share scenes but I don’t want to give anything away! Just read it!

Conner and Gabrielle were the best main characters. Conner is arrogant and sexy and my favorite. Gabrielle is snarky and accident prone, on a mission and my favorite. Be prepared to laugh and be in shock with your mouth hanging open when around these two or just Gabriella. Now I am not usually a fan of men calling women “baby or babe,” but coming out of Conners mouth it doesn’t sound degrading at all. He uses it as a definite term of endearment. When he says “Babes”….I just get a mushy inside.

Gabriella and her best friend, Maria are completely over the top sometimes but it all fits together perfectly. They made me laugh and *snort* a few times. They have a back and forth banter that i couldn’t stop smiling over. They are friends til the end and all the times in between.

Conner in the Epilogue….OMG! This is why I love this man! He is strong, sexy and confident…except over one thing. He just melts my heart! That is one of the best epilogues I have read in a while!

This is my first book by this author. I am impressed and will be watching for future books by her. The story…..unpredictable. The characters….unpredictable. See a theme here? This is an amazing book that will be re-read for years to come! Thank you it’s Outstanding!

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

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

Once Upon a Romance(A Dream Come True Book 1)
By Alex Bailey
Rated 5 stars!

First off I LOVE the cover! Very holiday and Disney-ish. A Perfect Mesh! It drew me to this and after reading the synopsis I grabbed it. The story just appealed to me. A WDW fan and the love of family. Both are Win-Wins for me. One of my favorite things is how the magic of Christmas mixes with the magic of Disney.

The characters were well thought out and grew over the story. I enjoyed how grumpy and grouchy Sophie was at the beginning. She off-set Ariel’s nice attitude. Ariel was a sweetheart and a little matchmaker. The families and that one “special guy” were full of fun and happiness as well. Even the crazy characters they run across on their trip were lots of fun. They were all a great addition to the story.

I loved all the Disney themed comments, actions and fun. The rides and the lines as well as their days planned throughout each park. I really felt like I took this adventure along with them. So Fun!

This book will appeal to Disney fans and all of those who believe in a little magic. A wonderful story of learning to get over loss while opening yourself up to new possibilities. There are so many reasons to love this book.

P.S.
I enjoyed reading the acknowledgments and was surprised at all the different Disney websites that were listed. I plan to keep them for reference for my next trip.
Thanks!

Review by @lisahelmick
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Hard as Steel by Virginia Wine – Review by Lisa Helmick

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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 (Surviving Series Book 4)
By Virginia Wine
Rated 4 stars

This is quite the interesting story that has many levels. It’s book four of the series and it might help to read the others first. Not mandatory because I have not read them but probably helpful because these seem to be ongoing stories. This one is about Nick and Steel. With a few other characters that have a story of their own to tell.

I enjoyed reading this. At first I felt like I was thrust into a story already in progress. But that quickly changed to one I could easily follow along. I liked the characters. The passion Steel felt for Nick was easily conveyed through words. Steel is intense and that scene where they (Steel and Nick) are dancing is so….so…hot! All the secondary characters filled their rolls well. Will added a bit of fun to the story. This is a suspenseful story with a little dark side and has some deep romance.

Review by @lisahelmick

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Ring Tru by Janice M. Whiteaker – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Ring Tru (Thick as Theives Book 1)Ring Tru by Janice M. Whiteaker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ring Tru (Thick as Thieves Book 1)
by Janice M. Whiteaker
Rated 4 stars

This is a great little suspenseful story with some romance and intrigued mixed in. I enjoyed the characters and never really knowing what was going to happen next. Tru is daring, Will is secretive and Gretchen and Cooper are just fun to listen to.

This isn’t my for book by this author. I enjoy the way she writes. It is very smooth and keeps my interest. I am drawn into the story and the plight of the characters. I look forward to more from this series and this author.

Review by @lisahelmick
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Across From You by Amabel Daniels – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Across From YouAcross From You by Amabel Daniels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Across From You by Amabel Daniels
Rated 4 stars

This is a cute story about a chance meeting. I really liked Lexi and Jack. Both had great senses of humor. I loved how they met and the second meeting as well. I liked how they were both basically “regular” people. Not glamorous jobs or super rich. There was many things I liked about Lexi. How she is honest, faithful and has a face full of thoughts. She could be anyone. Jack wasn’t as rigid as I would expect being a state trooper. I loved his attitude and that once he decided to go for it he was “all” in. These two seemed “real” in the respect of their jobs and insecurities on their feelings with each other.

My only issue is there is a lot of thinking and rehashing going on in their noggins. Some is okay in my book but repetitive or too much is not my cup of tea. This isn’t my first book by this author. I enjoy her characters and writings style. So I will always look forward to the next book from her.

Review by @lisahelmick
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Never Let Me Fall (Fatal Dreams #3) by Abbie Roads – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Never Let Me Fall (Fatal Dreams, #3)Never Let Me Fall by Abbie Roads
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Never Let Me Fall (Fatal Dreams #3)
By Abbie Roads
Rated 4 stars

Thomas’ story drew me in when I first heard about it. A guy who sees black/white and has for years then once he sees a woman…all the colors come to life. Heck yeah! I wanted to read that! Because I know he will want her. She not only adds color but also fills those empty holes he had inside him. Win-win!

I had high hopes for this book. I read the last two books in the series and ab-so-lutely loved them. I am not sure why but this book was a struggle for me. At first I couldn’t connect with the characters. At times the story seemed disjointed and I had to reread pages thinking I had missed something. But it all seemed to flow much better the further Into the story I got. I started to feel the connection and actually “feel” the MC’s bond grow. There is quite a bit of movement in the last half of the book which makes some things come together. It was nice to briefly see Lathan and Evanee as they helped out a bit.

As stated above I loved the others in this series. Heck I am a one clicker of Abbie Roads. But I am sorry. I wanted to love Thomas’ story but it is an okay to good read for me.

Review by @lisahelmick
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Mad About Matt (Red Maple Falls #1) by Theresa Paolo – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Mad About Matt (Red Maple Falls #1)Mad About Matt by Theresa Paolo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mad about Matt (Red Maple Falls #1)
By Theresa Paolo
Rated 5 stars

This book started off wonderfully! It is so smooth I felt right at home with these main characters. I love the chemistry between Matt and Shay. The have that spark as well as the cute banter. Just lovely! The secondary characters are a fun bunch. From Matt’s brothers and sisters to his parents and grandparents. The crazy drunk tractor driver and the best friend fire chief. There is always something going in and some or all of these people are involved. The banter between Shay, Kate (BFF and Matt’s sister) and Louise (employee) is snappy and fun.

I like how we were taken deeper into Matt’s family. It was a joy to spend time and get to know them. His parents and grandparents. Hadley working the farm, Mason being a home brewer and Kate glass blower those are cool and different jobs. I look forward to learning more from them.

This is a highly entertaining book. I chuckle and smiled while reading. The town and the characters were all lovely. This is a first time author for me and I look forward to getting to know the Hayes clan even more.

Review by @lisahelmick
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F*cking Frank by Jen Luerssen – Review by Lisa Helmick

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F*cking Frank (Smirk Series Book 1)F*cking Frank by Jen Luerssen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is so enjoyable. I loved it! I picked this up because with that title how could it not be a wickedly good read. Turns out Frank has not much of a filter. He is brash and basically says what he thinks regardless of who it’s too. Male, female, boss or friend…he holds nothing back. He is known for being a grump and never smiling or laughing plus he has no boundaries. So when he meets his doppelgänger but as a woman. Well his life is about to change.

I love the secondary characters especially Joe. His best friend. He teases him mercilessly….and I even laughed and made the “OH” face a few times with the things he said. He also is there when he needs him and gives him good advice. Lia is another who comes up with the whackiest things to irritate her bestie, Frankenburger or Frank and Beans or any other name she can think of. As well as her Swear Words! OMG! I love it! Such a great idea to make her memorable! When all the friends get together it’s funny but when they try “roast”Frank in front of his girl….hilarious!

This is a good solid book that even had me worrying about Frank a few times. It’s actually a fun read and the time sped by fairly quickly. I enjoy how Frank is telling the story but at times also talking to the reader. The characters were all Whack-a-Doodles but that’s what made me like them. Each is quirky in their own way. This is the first in the series and I can’t help but wonder about Joe….is he next???

Review by @lisahelmick
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The First Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams – Review by Lisa Helmick

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The First Backwards ChristmasThe First Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The First Backwards Christmas
By Brooke Williams
Rated 4 stars

This is a perfect story! I have read one of the others in the series and it intrigued me. Wondering how it all got started. This book answers my questions. It is short and sweet but gives me everything I needed.
The characters in here have such spirit. I enjoy not only their names but what they bring to the story. It almost seems magical.
Very cute and enjoyable.

Review by @lisahelmick
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Must Be Crazy (Darling Cove Series) by Deborah Garland – Review By Lisa Helmick

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Must Be CrazyMust Be Crazy by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Must Be Crazy (Darling Cove #3)
By Deborah Garland
Rated 5 stars

A wonderful story! I felt like coming home when I started reading this. The writing is so smooth and inviting that I can’t help but enjoy this book. The characters are all so freaking adorable! I loved how the story started. It got me back with the Mallory Family and took off from there.

Edward what can I say? Fire chief (sexy), architect (smart) and a single father (amazing)and he’s all man. I loved how you ogled Skye from afar never thinking she would go out with you. Your romance was sweet and I enjoyed reading it. But you two are in a pickle now. How to choose? Make the ultimate sacrifice?

I LOVED seeing the whole Mallory clan. They are such a joy and make me smile every scene. Andrew and Greg still so bossy and sexy. They are helpful and full of advice. Faith and Gwen ( both pregnant) leaning over the window seat gawking out the window…at Skye’s Date….so funny. I can totally picture that!! These two girls crack me up. So glad I read their books! Julian is a wonderful character add. He adds fun, spark and a joyfulness to the story.

This is my third book by this author. I enjoy reading her stories. They are full of love, character strength, fun, and some strife. Though not necessary to read the first two in the series. Reading them will enhance your enjoyment of this one. I look forward to the next one!

Review by @lisahelmick
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