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The Shape of Trust (Stand By Me Series) by Brinda Berry – Review Lisa Helmick

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The Shape of Trust (Stand By Me, #5)The Shape of Trust by Brinda Berry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Shape of Trust (Stand by Me #5)
By Brinda Berry
Rated 5 stars

This is another super book in the Stand By Me Series. I have read quite a few of this series. This is a interesting one that deals with some tough decisions for both characters. It was all blended well together. I liked each of the main characters and the story was good. The connection between Webb and Lily was very believable. I enjoyed their time together as much as they did. Learning, talking and laughing. That kissing!?!? Meltdown!

Webb has struggles in his life but his most recent is staying away from Lily who he considers “too young” for him. When he hires her for a job the struggle is harder because being around her all the time makes him only think of one thing. When they talk about the physical ”age” difference vs the mental one it’s mentioned by Lily that:

“ It’s not the days that make up a life, you know. It’s the experiences.”

I thought that was so profound. Great line!

I struggled with his daughter sometimes because a 5yo would not be okay with her grandma leaving her with someone she doesn’t know. ….and not crying for her mom all the time. That just seemed weird. She acts like she is perfectly fine living with a man she has never seen. Plus the words she uses and actions make her seem older than her age. I just wish this would Have been addressed at least for a little bit. Then have her adjust to her new life. She is a cute addition to the story so I can fault for that addition.

Again this is not my first book by this author. It is probably my second favorite of the series. I like that the author doesn’t shy away from real problems and uses them to show how people can move forward in life.

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Shadow’s Keep: A Novel by Meghan O’Flynn – Review Lisa Helmick

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Shadow's Keep: A NovelShadow’s Keep: A Novel by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Shadow’s Keep: A Novel
By Meghan O’Flynn
Rated 4 stars

This story was a shock to me and my mind is still reeling with the possibilities. I never figured this out. This is a perfectly weaved story of suspense. It opens my eyes to a darker side of life. It’s is a typical Meghan O’Flynn book with amazing characters you want to love and shows the harshness of the world and what happens when those two meet.

The characters are light and fluffy on the surface. It’s the story behind their smile that get me. My main emotion was hope but then it turned to shock while reading. This is very smoothly written and easy to read and follow along. All of this easily draw me into the story and the “unknown” keeps me coming back.

I was left with a few unanswered questions. Things I couldn’t figure out how they happened. I could have missed the answers but I’m not sure. Still a freakishly good story.

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Full Glasses and Burju Shoes by Blake Blessing – Review Lisa Helmick

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Full Glasses and Burju ShoesFull Glasses and Burju Shoes by Blake Blessing
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Glasses and Burju Shoes
By Blake Blessing
Rated 5 stars!!

Wowzer! This is an off the charts great book! I was unsure about this book at first. I simply did not know about the title. What are Burju shoes? Once I started reading it— I could not put this thing down. I am wholly impressed at the writing in here. It is so smooth and the character development was perfect. The story itself was engaging and full of turmoil. It is a bit edgier but completely worth it. The emotions and life lessons surprised me. I went from high- highs to low- lows right along with the characters. So many wonder lessons were highlighted so I could remember them.

I flipping loved the way these two main Characters are together! I can’t get over the way Emil touches her, smiles/laughs for her and how his eyes sparkle….all for his girl! Or is that what she does for him?? Bringing in the whole PTSD issue? It was done very well. It makes me stop and think about this struggle for our military personnel.
When Emil told Perrin:

“ You are the one light in the smothering darkness of my life”

I about cried! To say that and feel that way! Wow!

I can not recommend this book enough! If you want to read a well written book that has wonderful characters and takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions. One-Click this baby!

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Killer Lawyer by Mark Nolan – Review Lisa Helmick

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Killer LawyerKiller Lawyer by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Killer Lawyer (Jake Wolfe Book 3)
By Mark Nolan
Rated 5 stars

This is the third in the series and it’s just as enthralling as the previous ones. The writing is so smooth, making it easy to fall into the story. Jake and Cody are two of my favorite characters. I love seeing how Jake works through ideas and how Cody works/helps Jake. When I think the case is at a dead end, Jake always seems to figure out a thread to start pulling until he unravels the whole thing. His relationship with Cody is out-side of amazing! They completely are able to understand each other whether it is by vocal, silent or an eyebrow raise. I love their connection. Jake is a genuinely good guy. He might be annoying and have a big mouth but he also has a big heart. It comes out from time to time and makes me smile every time.

I like the people connections Jake has made over the series. We always seem to see or have reference of those people again. Roxanne is the tech for the PD. She is as interesting as Jake and Cody. I love how whip smart she is! Sarah, Beth, Terrell/Alicia, Agent McKay and Paul all add so much to this story. They all have a love/hate relationship with Jake but a Love/love relationship with Cody. I think Jake’s snarky attitude is what ranks Cody higher.

This story is always full of surprises. That makes this enjoyable to read. I never know what is going to happen next or really anytime. I am just riding along and shocked at or smiling at whatever has just happened. The Dear Reader at the end of the book is so wonderful to read. It talks about the tech and gadgets that appear in the book. I love reading this! Thank You Mark Nolan for all the work you put into this and each story. As well as telling us about it at the end of your books.

I can’t wait to see what Jake and Cody do next!

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The Way You Are (The Carolina Connections #5) by Sylvie Stewart – Review Lisa Helmick

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The Way You Are (The Carolina Connections, #5)The Way You Are by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Way You Are (The Carolina Connections, #5)
By Sylvie Stewart
Rated 5 stars

How enjoyable is this story!! I loved it! The witty banter, the secret longing and the sexy beard…all good reasons to devour this book! Olivia is a hoot! She sure has a mouth on her! She cracked me up at the games! Brett seems like not the type of guy she would go for. His outward appearance might have people shy away or look down on him. But I side he is a golden boy! He has this great big heart. We get to see and spend some time with Gavin and Emerson. They really help the story move forward as does Haley, who is Olivia’s best friend.

This isn’t my first book by this author. I have read all of the others in this series. They all have a little fun, some sexy men and strong sassy women. I love reading this series and look forward to the next one!!

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A Talent for Trouble by Landra Graf – Review Lisa Helmick

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A Talent for Trouble (Bad Boys of Space, #1)A Talent for Trouble by Landra Graf
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Talent for Trouble (Bad Boys of Space #1)
By Landra Graf
Rated 5 stars

I love, love, loved this story! It is full of action and suspense. As well as a relationship full of lust, snark and mutual distrust. I loved each of these characters from the first moment we met them. Toni is such a strong female lead! She kept me on my toes but never disappointed me. She is not afraid to get her hands dirty and has a loyal following. Emilio is trying to turn his life around when everything goes wrong. He is arrogant and thinks his good looks, suave personality and thinking one-step ahead can get him out of anything. When these two first meet?? It’s like hot and cold. They each have a past holding them back from a possible future. Will they be able to overcome to meet in the middle?

I loved this storyline! Bootleggers, drug/gun runners and drug cartels? Spaceships, AI’s, Earth and other planets?? All of that makes this an action-packed story that I couldn’t put down. I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen next and how were they going to get out of the next mess. Many times I rooted for Emilio or Toni but then i was distraught Over something that happened and changed my loyalty to the opposite. There are a bunch of rag-tag dysfunctional secondary characters that I enjoyed immensely. They made the MC’s more rounded and added some fun to the story. I would love to read some more about them and possibly have them get their own stories.

This is a first time author for me. I can’t wait to read more in this series and are eagerly awaiting the next one!

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Alive by Courtney Konstantin – Review By Lisa Helmick

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Alive (Sundown Series Book 3)Alive by Courtney Konstantin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Alive (Sundown Series Book 3)
By Courtney Konstantin
Rated 5 stars!!!!

Wow! Wow! Wow! I loved this story for so many reasons! This book is written so well. It’s smooth and has such a nice flow to it. The story is action packed and highly addictive! It held me captivated and I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. Many times while reading I find myself saying or thinking “No! Don’t go back to town!” Or “Stay away from there!” But sadly they didn’t listen to me. Each of the characters has a nice quality about them. Whether it be the main one, a secondary or even the dog. They were all well thought out and beautifully done. Even the relationships between the characters is done superbly.

You know the saying “ I love it when a story comes together”? This one is all that! From the writing, to the characters, to the story, they all blend so nicely for a great finished product. This is a first time author for me. I will gladly check out her other books and I will be reading the first two in this series! I am now interested in the girls stories and wondering where the author will take this story next. I highly recommend this book.

PS Great cover!

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Tapped by Tarrah Anders – Review Lisa Helmick

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TappedTapped by Tarrah Anders
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tapped (The Night Moves #3)
By Tarrah Anders
Rated 5 stars

I was very excited to read this book. I loved the first two and this one is no exception. It was enjoyable getting to meet Kai and how he reacted to seeing Janae for the first time. Janae tried to stay strong about her no relationship rule, but Kai was able to melt her defenses. I won’t say how he did it. But DANG! I loved it! So creative!

I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Jacks/Cam and Mal/Beck again. They truly have amazing relationships and I love seeing what they are all up to. Plus their bantering is so cute!

This story flowed so nicely. The characters are interesting and full of life. I love reading this authors books. She has a way with her stories that draw me in and make me care about the characters. This can be read as a stand alone (why would you?) but if you want the “full-package” you need to read the first two In the series. They are just as good. I promise! This epilogue! OMG! So perfect! It gave me chills!!
I loved it!

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Written in the Stars by T. Birmingham – Review By Lisa Helmick

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Written in the Stars (Fallen Eagles MC Book 2)Written in the Stars by T. Birmingham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Written in the Stars (Fallen Eagles MC Book 2)
By T. Birmingham
Rated 5 stars!!

When I first started this I didn’t think I would be very excited to read it. It deals with a younger woman and an older man and those are usually not my romances that I care for. But I am pleasantly surprised at this story.
These two characters we met in the last book and each one has had their own battles, maybe not all visible ones, but they are still there. How they learn to overcome and move forward is a definite journey I was glad to take with them.

I loved reading Eagle/Davis and Winter’s story! I can *feel* their attraction, interest and love for each other. That first kiss between the two of them was so freaking H-O-T. Then I had to giggle a little as Casper showed up and put his own spin and two cents into the mix Ha ha ha! Sexiness mixed with some humor! My fav! I also loved that Eagle/Davis’ seems so enraptured by Winter. It makes me in awe of him. His thoughts…his gestures for her are all are so…soo amazing. He truly gets her! On all levels! The whole “Witchy” thing and the way Eagle thinks she is magical. Genius!! I loved all terms he uses in reference to “witches “ but describing Winter. It is soooo sweet!

My fav line:

“You’re bewitching, babe. Everything about you is like magic”.

This is the second in the series and I can not wait for the next one! I have grown to love this crew. The writing was mostly smooth and easy to read. There is an element of danger that threw me off for a bit but when it all comes together..Blew my mind!!!

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A Terrible Beauty by T. Birmingham – Review by Lisa Helmick

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A Terrible Beauty (Fallen Eagles MC Book 1)A Terrible Beauty by T. Birmingham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Terrible Beauty (Fallen Eagles MC Book 1)
By T. Birmingham
Rated 4 stars

I loved the idea of this book. A female former military who has PTSD? You don’t read that everyday. So I was intrigued. The story was good but couldn’t connect with the characters. I had a hard time keeping my focus. I’m not sure what it was but the story didn’t seem to flow easily. I did get through it fairly quickly. The idea of what these prisoners of war endured and then dealing with the aftermath was thought provoking. How can they cope functioning normal again? What about the big secret that the characters have been hiding all these years? When it comes to light who will be left standing?

I did wonder at the name of the book. A Terrible Beauty….I understand now and how well it’s a perfect title for this book. The characters did grow and had as many ups as they do downs. A couple of the characters started out very rough. Reliving the war. Dealing with everyday life. There were quite a few nice lessons about learning how to live with yourself and becoming better, smarter and stronger. I did enjoy the little bantering about Harley’s and Triumph’s that the two main characters did. As well as the names of the Markham daughters! This does have a nice romantic angle between a few of the characters. They all seem to be connected from their past and their present.

I will be checking out the second book in the series.

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Rising Star By Susannah Nix – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Rising StarRising Star by Susannah Nix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rising Star by Susannah Nix
Rated 4 stars

This is a wonderful story with two characters who have heart. Alice is used to being invisible. She works in the background on a TV show. She is also working towards her PHD. In doing that she ran across an unsavory character who changed her outlook on men. Griffin is an actor and dang if I’m not impressed with him. I never realized what an actor goes through to look good on screen. When Alice eats junk food IN FRONT of him…the willpower?!?! Impressive! His reaction to dairy?? Orgasmic! When he tells Alice “I miss you more than dairy”. I couldn’t help smiling my face off.

This is my second book by Susannah Nix. I enjoyed this story and fell in love with these two characters. It seemed a bit slow at first but picked up fairly quickly. There are fun and quirky moments along with more serious ones. I did read it in one day so there is that. ….and i almost wanted to cry at the end. I’ll be keeping an eye out for her next book.

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The Lies We Tell by Brittany Butler – Review By Lisa Helmick

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The Lies We TellThe Lies We Tell by Brittany Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Lies We Tell
By Brittany Butler
Rated 4 stars

This story does a lot of bouncing around. I was confused multiple times about which present or past we were In. The past and the present seemed to be very similar sometimes. Other than that….once I got going and Into the story it was riveting. I couldn’t stop reading or figure out which way things were going to end. I was shocked more than once over the turn of events. Certain characters had me liking them one minute…then not liking them the next.
This is a first time author for me. I am glad I picked this up and look forward to more from her. She engaged me and made me have differing opinion of the same characters. The story made me think. How long should grudges be held? They are not healthy but sometimes it’s hard to let things go. Natalie seems to do this fairly well but struggles in other areas. She tends to run away. But is that really solving the problem?

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The Progeny Assassin: A Tarnished Lands Story by P.A. Wikoff – Review by Lisa Helmick

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The Progeny Assassin: A Tarnished Lands StoryThe Progeny Assassin: A Tarnished Lands Story by P.A. Wikoff
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Progeny Assassin: A Tarnished Lands Story
By P.A. Wikoff
Rated 3 stars

The story was very hard for me to get Into. There is so much narrative. I struggled to focus on the story. I found myself reading through a haze at times. It does get more exciting about half way. For some reason I really couldn’t get into Lara’s story. I didn’t even realize she is the assassin until she keeps killing. Her Master disappears and Lara goes on a quest for find her. On her way she runs into different feathered folk and humans. Some she likes and others she doesn’t. She learns a few things about herself as the story moves forward. The character Lara actually seemed like a good character. I could see her growth as the story went on. This is the second in the series. I feel it could be read as a stand alone but it might be more enjoyable if read in series order.

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The Crazy Yates by Kimberly Packard – Review by Lisa Helmick

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The Crazy YatesThe Crazy Yates by Kimberly Packard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Crazy Yates
by Kimberly Packard
Rated 4 stars

This is a peek into the Yates living room window a few days before Christmas. Im not so sure the family is crazy just trying to live through difficult times. That makes them different from others. This is a short story but that doesn’t mean the author skimped out the developing the characters. I understood where Callie was coming from. Always down on their luck the monster always lurking around the next corner. Her family who hasn’t been there for her before. Will they come through on Christmas or will they just keep thinking about themselves?

This is not a first time author for me. I enjoy how she creates a small glimpse of someone’s world and invites us in the be spectators.

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Paladin’s Hell: Satan’s Devils MC by Manda Mellett – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Paladin's Hell: Satan's Devils MC (Colorado Chapter) #1Paladin’s Hell: Satan’s Devils MC (Colorado Chapter) #1 by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Paladin’s Hell: Satan’s Devils MC (Colorado Chapter) #1
By Manda Mellett
Rated 5 stars

What a great start to a new group of guys! I love the writing in this. The characters draw me in and seem very real. I loved seeing all the old characters and meeting some new ones. I quickly get immersed into the MC life again. We are meeting new Brothers, new Ol’ Lady’s and new sweet butts. What comes with this as well are new problems.

Paladin struggles to gain and give the trust he so easily had from his new Brothers. Not only that but Moira has claimed herself as guardian of Jayden. Protecting her from Paladin. I tell you new clubs are not super easy. OMG!! That cat!! What a great add to the story! Her antics cracked me up! She added a little fun and craziness to a more serious story.

Moira and The Prez have had quite the life. They are getting older and changes come with that. I liked how the author dealt with a few issues. I have not read a book that talks about the trials of getting older like this one. I could easily identify with both of these characters going through this rough time. I will say Moira was not a favorite of mine for a while during this read.

This author is quickly becoming a one-clicker for me. I have been hooked on these MC’s for a while now. I loved *seeing* Drummer/Arizona crew again in here since he feels like coming home. But the new crew felt pretty good by the time the book was done. I can’t wait for the next one!

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Wish Upon a Bollywood Star by Pamela Q. Fernandes – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Wish Upon a Bollywood StarWish Upon a Bollywood Star by Pamela Q. Fernandes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wish Upon a Bollywood Star
By Pamela Q. Fernandes
Rated 4 stars

This is filled with drama, anger and secrets. I can’t say I didn’t enjoy it because I stayed up late reading. I would have loved seeing some chapters from Virs POV. He was always so angry and irritated. It maybe would have helped me understand and sympathize with his character. Instead I don’t like him very much. Wait…hold that thought..he is a possessive alpha guy so of course I like him! Hold on! I did add very much…so that’s true. He has that star quality package down pat. Me, me, me!

I did love his family! So as minor characters they were delightful to read. A few others were not so nice or had unexplained actions.
The ending also felt rushed. I think Virs POV throughout the story would have helped that as well. Or even an epilogue to balance out the relationship. I read this fairly quickly so I did enjoy it.

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Souls Collide (Collide Series) by Kristina Beck – Review by Lisa Helmick

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Souls Collide (Collide Series #3)Souls Collide by Kristina Beck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Souls Collide (Collide Series #3)
By Kristina Beck
Rated 5 stars

This is my first book by this author and I am not sure how I have skipped over this wonderful writer. Her writing enchanted me. I loved meeting each of her characters. Then when they all came together….BAM! Pure Poetry in Motion! She gives them life…they are not just flat characters. I care about each of them for their own reasons…well except for a few naughty ones. But they help make the story so I guess I like them for what their purpose is.

I read this fairly quickly as it enchanted me from the beginning. After about the half way mark I kinda started losing interest. I kept plugging along and it was worth it. There are some amazing characters in here who struggle with real life problems. I learned a few things I didn’t know before. Alexa-I love the whole nickname thing and the idea behind it. Kent…you made me want to hug you. But you would not like that at least at first. Abby- Dayum girl! You are inspiring!

Overall this story was right up my alley. I enjoyed reading it and will keep this author in mind when looking for a fun, sexy romance.

Ps. LOVE the cover!

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

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

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

This is a not your normal start. Usually the female owns the coffee shop…this time it’s male lead. Dan owns a coffee shop. Kat is a coffee fanatic. Match made in heaven right? Not so fast. There is major miscommunication and some jealousy along with some flirtation. This all leads to an entertaining story.

The story seems to drag a bit in some areas (too much thinking) in others it seemed to be over to soon. I am not a huge fan of internalizing their thoughts. I prefer more dialogue…it seems more lively. I was intrigued by this guy being a coffee mixer. What an interesting job!
This is a nice sweet short story.

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

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

A Pink Christmas Kiss
By Allyson R. Abbott
Rated 5 stars!

OMGosh! I love this story! There are so many thing I enjoyed while reading this. First off Billie being a mechanic was my favorite thing. It’s not too often we read about a girl who can handle a garage. This girl completely rocked it. Her love of cars was very evident in every look or word uttered about them. Second was the Deuce Coup. What a great way to tie the past and present as well as the characters of the story. The secondary characters (parents, best friend and old schoolmates) were enjoyable and all served their purpose and didn’t seem to overstep.

This is my favorite book in this series so far. I loved the Pink, the car and the two main characters. All so sweet with a little struggle. This book gave me some wonderful feelings while reading. I enjoyed the characters and the writing drew me in and kept me interested. Thoroughly enjoyable story about second chances. I highly recommend this one!

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

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Leaving Jackson WolfLeaving Jackson Wolf by P.A. Kane
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Leaving Jackson Wolf
By P.A. Kane
Rated 3 stars

This is a tough read for me. I really wanted to like it. The story is a good one and I like the theme running through it. McDougal has the wondrous ability and eases most people. He is sneaky in how he get under your defenses. Then you realize how great of a guy he is. Jackson, who I thought was a troubled youth, was really a good guy who surprised me more than once. He has teenage struggles as well as life struggles. The storyline moved forward slowly at times (all song titles) and other times moved along at a good pace.

This is a first time author for me. As previously stated I really struggled with this story keeping my interest. Probably since this is mostly narrative (thinking inside their heads) and bits of dialogue. I am a fan of more dialogue with active movement. This story was good the characters really grew on me as I read.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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

Review @lisahelmick

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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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