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PLAYER (21st Century Courtesan Book 1) by Pamela DuMOND – Review by Liz Vrchota

Player (21st Century Courtesan #1)Player by Pamela DuMond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I, Evie Berlinger, am no longer an average escort. I’m not paid to drop to my knees behind some sh*tty House of Pies and dispense blow jobs to sad gus in town for a hardware show. My services are retained by powerful, privileged, wealthy men at the top of their professions who have lost their way; self-confidence; the spark that made them great.

‘Be still my heart.’ That was what Evie’s thoughts were when she first meets Dylan, and quite honestly, it is the thought that has been swirling in my mind since I have finished this novel. I have never had the pleasure of reading anything from Pamela DuMond until ‘Player’ and this couldn’t have been a better introduction. I am ADDICTED! If I could give this book more than five stars I would. I devoured it in less than 4 hours and my only complaint is that it was over. I can’t wait for the next installment.

This was such a unique take on the good girl needs money, modern escort story. Evie Berlinger is not your typical young woman. She has overcome one hell of a difficult childhood to get where she is today and that isn’t even that great. She finds herself in the hands of Ma Maison Agency. An escort agency. For awhile it gets her by. Kindergarten by day and escort by night. Until she meets the handsome Dylan McAlister. Things start to get a little messy when she starts feeling things she hasn’t felt in years. These two were hot, hot, hot! Like, keep a tall glass of water, and a fan nearby, hot.

Will I ever meet another man I’m attracted to as much as Dylan? Who knows? What I do know is that it’s finally okay for me to be empathic. Not more pushit it away, not more keeping it under wraps. It’s mine to own. Using my empathic ability with clients os a;ready a big messy stew of passion and sex and sadness But if I can help heal these broken men, help them get their power back, I’m cool with that. I’m signing up for a wild ride, but I joined this ruthless rodeo when I was born into my crazy family.

Review by @lizaileen
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Imperfect Heart (Combat Hearts #4) by Tarina Deaton – Review by Liz Vrchota

Imperfect Heart (Combat Hearts Book 4)Imperfect Heart by Tarina Deaton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well, I most certainly did not see the side-splitting laughs that were to come from this novel. I have read the previous Combat Hearts novels, and really they were good novels, but this one takes the top favorite for me. I was excited, because this was a perfect conclusion to the series for me. My only complaint… It ended, lol. You do not have to have read the other books in the series to enjoy this one, they can be standalones. However, it would increase your reading pleasure.

Zoe was so relatable for me. She has that quirky awkwardness about her. She talks a lot when she doesn’t know what to say, much like myself. I think the only thing we don’t have in common is the fact that she was in the military. I love her love for books, and that she goes for her dream of opening a bookstore after she retires from her military career. I guess the other difference is that she is a youngest child and I am the oldest, but those seem to have similar characteristics as well.

Then there is Tim, the handsome strong cop. He is drawn to Zoe and wants to protect her. Well Zoe being the strong, independent and ex-militant woman she is, doesn’t need this help and protector. Cue hilarious jokes and side comments. Especially when feelings are introduced to the mix! There is a perfect balance of comedy, romance, and just enough of a twist to keep you on the edge of your seat that you will be reading this well past your bedtime to find out how things will end for these two. Like I said, I am sad to see Combat Hearts come to a close, but I look forward to seeing what else is to come from Tarina Deaton in the near future! Thanks for the great series!

Review by @lizaileen
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Can’t Forget: If she can’t forget her past, she won’t have a future. (Solum Series Book 2) by Colleen S. Myers – Review by Liz Vrchota

Can't ForgetCan’t Forget by Colleen S. Myers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book two in the Solum Series from Colleen S. Myers. I would highly recommend that you read the first book in the series, “Must Remember” before you dive into this one. There is a lot of detail in that book and it really sets you up for this one. As well as being a continuation from the first.

I have to say this one sort of bothered me. I had trouble liking/ connecting to Elizabeth (Beta). I found myself hollering at her in my mom voice a several times while reading the book. She really just needed to stop being so darn stubborn. I get why a character having these flaws sets up the way for future story lines but this one was just a bit too much. I don’t know maybe it was me, but that would have been the only reason for me why I knocked off a star. Everything else was engaging and interesting. I enjoyed the way Myers can build a fantastic world you can escape into. Her stories are fast paced and you often feel as if they are over before you barely have begun.

Like I said before this does pick up from the first book. Elizabeth, or Beta found herself in a whole new world from her typical college student life in that one. Now in an alien world she is also in the middle of a love triangle. (Those area always fun!) This one we discover more about her relationship with Marin. I did enjoy that aspect a lot, and Marin personally.

The E’mani is also still around and that means danger of course. This is where her stubbornness with come in to play and she will get herself in some trouble. She is also forced to make the decision to forget her past and embrace the future. Can she do this? I am looking forward to seeing what will come next in the Solum series.

Review by @lizaileen
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Across From You by Amabel Daniels ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

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

I do believe that I am still rolling with laughter from this book. Just sitting here reminiscing my time with the characters as I type this review has me laughing all over again. I loved this rom-com from Amabel Daniels. I have read books from her before, but I have to say this is a strong point for her!

From the get-go things are off to a funny start for Lexi Regan. After a viral and not so pretty breakup she finds herself in another awkward situation when she ends up in an art class with her bestie. She thought it was supposed to be a sip wine and paint a pic by number type thing. She had no idea it was a live model in a stuffy art room situation. She really didn’t expect it to be a handsome guy that had eyes for her either. The big twist comes when the two are thrust together for a weekend at her cousins wedding. Just imagine all the shenanigans! Strap in for one hilarious story.

Review by @lizaileen
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Who (Stalker Series #1) by Megan Mitcham ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

Who (Stalker, #1)Who by Megan Mitcham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! I have not read anything from Megan Mitcham before, and I am kind of kicking myself for it now. Big time! I loved this novel, and for so many different reasons. This happens to be very good, because I will mostly be rambling about them, for the better part of this review. I would hate to spoil any of this fantastic multi-layer mystery and suspense novel that what I could say about its storyline is quite limited.

I think I must start with the gorgeous cover. I was drawn in right away with its striking appearance. I honestly didn’t even read the blurb, and jumped right into the novel, no questions asked. I was ready for an adventure.

This story promises to keep you enthralled every single second. I was constantly wondering WHO. Which really not only made the title very fitting, but was a really great reading experience. I love a great suspenseful story that will keep me engaged and going, “I didn’t see that coming.” out loud to myself several times throughout. I very much so caught myself doing this.

I absolutely adored that a woman, Larkin Ashford, was a main character and the billionaire. More power to strong women represented. She is one kicka** character and I loved her. She knew what she wanted and she took it. No games. Sometimes it is nice to just get a no mess story. This had the hint of romance but it was a focus and I liked that. It was a balance to the suspense rather than a focus. Mostly we see that Larkin is a strong person and I really loved that.

I would have to say finally, that I am most excited that this is just book one is a series. That means there is more to come! Bonus to being late to the game of discovering Megan Mitcham is while I am waiting I can go check out her other works! Thanks for a great read Ms. Mitcham!

Review by @lizaileen
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The Confectioner’s Exile (The Confectioner Chronicles Prequel Novella #0.5) by Claire Luana ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

The Confectioner's ExileThe Confectioner’s Exile by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well this was another delightful and fun addition to The Confectioner Chronicles. This is actually a prequel novella, so reads like one and is a quick light read. I devoured it in one short sitting. The first book, ‘The Confectioner’s Guild’, which I ADORED, featured our main character, Hale in this one.
I really enjoyed the fact that we got the backstory of him. Hale has it all, literally. Good looks, riches, the family hierarchy. However, it isn’t all it seems under the surface. Especially when something happens and it is all ripped away from him. Now he is on the run and forced to fend for himself. He has never had to do this before, so imagine the difficulty and the story lines this makes for. Can he survive on his own? I am dying to get my hands on the next book, ‘The Confectioner’s Truth.’ I will just be over her salivating… Thanks for another great read Claire Luana!

Review by @lizaileen
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Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders Book 1) by Lexie Conyngham ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders, #1)Tomb for an Eagle by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Well this was a bit of an interesting departure from the typical murder mysteries that I would normally find myself reading. Lexie Conyngham was a new author to me when I chose Tomb for an Eagle. I loved the cover and the blurb so decided to give it a go. I was glad that I did, as this was a new take. I would say it was a bit of a difficult read. The tools are there to help you decipher some things though so I was grateful for that. I don’t know if it would be for everyone though. There is some difficult names as this is set in Scotland and has some pretty crazy words to learn. In the back there is a guide to help you with this. Thanks Lexie Conyngham for that! I also found it a bit complicated with the details and such to keep track of everything so there was another thing that confused me. Otherwise this was gripping tale that I thoroughly enjoyed trying to figure out. I was kept on my toes with the guessing, which is ultimately what you want in a good murder mystery. I look forward to seeing what will come next in the series.

Review by @lizaileen
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Neverland by Melissa Jane ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

NeverlandNeverland by Melissa Jane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

521. That, is how many reviews that I currently have on Goodreads right now. So, to say that I have experience writing one is pretty valid. Well, ‘Neverland’ has completely thrown me for a loop. I finished this novel in one sitting a few evenings ago and it has consumed my thoughts since. I still can’t figure out how to do this novel justice with my review. Honestly, I will sincerely do my best, but all I can say for sure is you have to read this one for yourself. Especially, if you are a dark and twisty novel fan like myself. Do not let the warnings get to you. Yes it is a dark book. It is not all flowers and sunshine. Guess what? Life is not flowers and sunshine people! These books that touch us so much are often the ones that are so realistic, because they are relatable. We can see more of ourselves in the characters.

These characters will do just that too. They will suck you in. Every single piece of you. Heart and soul. I was so invested. Every time something happened, good or bad, to the characters I felt it too. My heart broke to a million tiny pieces. Honestly, it still hurts. Especially after that ending. It all makes so much sense now, but I have a feeling this book will stay with me for a long time. Now that I have read ‘Neverland” I have to read another Melissa Jane novel. I have been scouring her works and adding them to by TBR list for days. I do believe that I will start with ‘Little Doll’ next. That one is a part of a series. Thank you so much for this wonderful and mind-blowing novel Melissa Jane. It truly blew me away and left me speechless. This goes on my top ten reads of 2018 list!

Review by @lizaileen
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Hard as Steel (Surviving Series #4) by Virginia Wine ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

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

I feel as if I must preface this review with a bit of a warning, I have not read Virginia Wine’s works before or the other previous books in the Surviving Series yet. I wish that I had before I had jumped into this one head first. Unfortunately, this was just how it happened to work out for me this time. However, it wasn’t a total disappointment. I did enjoy the novel. It was a well-developed plot line and I did enjoy the characters that were played throughout. I feel as if I would have been able to really enjoy the book to its fullest potential however if I had the chance to know them from the beginning and had the entire story. My plan is to go back and start with book one, ‘Surviving Eden’. I will eventually read this one again in the proper order, and update my review then.

That said this book is centered on Nicole Lancaster and Steel Archer. Nicole is a FBI agent. She is serious about her career and very good at is because of it. Now she is up for a promotion and is determined to not let anything get in the way of her getting said promotion. At the same time she is given an intense case that could also make or break her so she needs to keep things in check. The last thing she needs is to feel anything for the private investigator that is working on the same case. Between these two things what will happen for her?

Steel just wants to protect the woman he was hired to protect. He is fighting hard to overcome his past demons. He never expected to start feeling things for the FBI agent Nicole Lancaster that is working the case of the woman he is protecting. He has his own demons and it appears she does as well. He can’t break her walls down to save his soul. And what happens when both the women are now in danger? Can he keep them all safe? Will he ever break through Nicole’s rock solid protective shell? You will just have to read and find out what happens for yourself!

Review by @lizaileen

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The Confectioner’s Guild (The Confectioner Chronicles Book 1) by Claire Luana ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

The Confectioner's Guild (The Confectioner Chronicles, #1)The Confectioner’s Guild by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Enchanted & cloyingly sweet! I absolutely loved every second I spent with Wren! Claire Luana was a completely new author to me, but I can assure you this will soon be remedied. I have become enthralled with the magical writing skills that she possesses. First, I must start with this amazing cover. I was drawn in with its beautiful colors and enchanting design. Who wouldn’t want to find out what lays behind that? Given I hadn’t known the author previously, I simply went in blind, and wasn’t I pleasantly pleased!

Do not be fooled however. This isn’t so sweet and wholesome as it looks. Hence my cloyingly description. Wren is the very best of bakers. She enjoys what she does and it comes out in her baking. She loves being in her little corner of the world making her masterpieces. Unfortunately, when the Guildmaster calls you must oblige. So oblige she does. This is where things go a bit awry. As mentioned in the teaser his is poisoned and she is to blame! Why would simple and sweet Wren poison the Guildmaster!?

Well this has left her in a tortuous bind. She has merely ONE month to collect her proof that she did not commit the crime she has been accused of or else… To make matters worse she has no alliances and no family now when she needs them the most. What will she do? The journey she will take will be sure to keep you engaged and entertained well beyond your bedtime. I know it did for me. I absolutely cannot wait to get my hands on the next book, ‘The Confectioner’s Exile.’ Thanks so much for such a fantastic read Claire Luana!

Review by @lizaileen
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Silk Road (Code Raven #6) by Lynda Filler ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

SILK ROAD (Code Raven, #6)SILK ROAD by Lynda Filler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well Ms. Filler has knocked my socks off once again with one of her Code Raven novels. This is the sixth installment in the series. I have absolutely fallen in love with this series. If you haven’t had the pleasure of reading the other books in the series you should be ok with picking up any book and starting. However, I would recommend that you read them in order for a higher enjoyment of the whole series.

In Silk Road we find the team embarking on another fast paced mission. This happens to be one of my absolute favorites that they have ever been on though. In the beginning all of our characters that we have grown to love are in different places. Luke has taken Samaar/ Luci to the Maldives for a little vacation. Himanish is currently in Geneva working on a troubling and mysterious situation. Here we find out that there are children that are disappearing, and this is happening all over the place. This becomes a globetrotting mission for the team. They will stop at nothing to figure out how to squash this newly discovered sex-trafficking ring. Of course the closer they get the more danger they will find themselves in. What will happen? Can they put a stop to it or will the lives of those they are trying to protect actually be in more danger, and will theirs be over too?

Thanks so much for another fantastic adventure Ms. Filler. I can’t wait to find out what will come next!

Review by @lizaileen
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Credence Woods by Alexandria Sure – Review by Liz Vrchota

Credence WoodsCredence Woods by Alexandria Sure
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was my first time reading anything by Alexandria Sure. I wasn’t’ sure what I was going to get but as soon as I saw this gorgeous cover I had to know what the story was. I am so glad that I picked this up. I now not only have a new author to add to my TBR list, but really enjoyed this read.

Credence Woods is a standalone novel that gives us an up close and personal glimpse at the life of Kennedy Hewson. Kennedy is going through a major life change. She just underwent weight loss surgery. What is she supposed to do now? She sticks to the routine and nothing more. That routine that gives her some source of security is about to be thrown off kilter. What will she do? Will she make the right decisions or will she end up walking away from the happiness she could have had?

I will say one thing though, Kennedy did get a bit on my nerves for a bit. I wanted to find a lot to connect with in her given I am a curvy woman and know what it is like to have self-doubt and other issues with image and weight. I don’t know she was just whiney about it more than she was inspirational about it to me personally. Otherwise the story was great and well written and I can’t wait to see what else is available from Alexandria Sure, and what else is to come in the future.

Review by @lizaileen
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Touchdown: A Steamy Football Romance (The Big Apple Series Book #1) by Alexa Summers – Review by Liz Vrchota

Touchdown: A Steamy Football Romance: The Big Apple Series Book 1Touchdown: A Steamy Football Romance: The Big Apple Series Book 1 by Alexa Summers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely loved this novel! There are so many reasons why, I don’t know where to start either! I guess I will start with a bit of a disclaimer. I am a sucker for football romances. Always have been. Maybe it is that football season also reminds me of cozy blankets, hoodies, coffee, and bonfires. It is when magical things start to happen. I.E. my favorite time of year. Another reason I adored this book is because this is the first in a series, The Big Apple Series, so there will be more!! At least one more reason… these are both new authors to me, and now they are one-clicks for me. I will have some more TBR to be adding to my list. (Because you know we all need more LOL)

All that said, this was such a fun storyline to follow as well, with several different layers to keep you engaged and on your toes from beginning
to end. Lexi Driver, one of my favorite female MC’s this year, was so fun to read. She is quite a complex character with her history. She has started to overcome it, but things start to creep back up and haunt her again when things get messy with her now successful profession, a sportsman reporter.

It is while doing a report that she finds herself wrapped up in a locker room mess and in the path of one ticked off and handsome football player, Brett Brock. I liked Brett, although not at first. It was a bit of, he had to grow on me. That was all part of the charm of the story though. Anyway, Brett is caught with his balls, rather than his football skills, (pun intended LOL) on the screen for the free world to see. This obviously gets under his skin and sets him on a mission to get some revenge of sorts. During this mission though he starts to discover that there may be more to them than just a physical attraction. These two may actually have the makings of soulmates. But not everything is what it seems and just when you think they will be on the road to the expected happily ever after things start happening. What will happen between these two? For that you will just have to one-click and find out for yourself. I can’t bare to divulge anymore that that! Happy reading, and thank you ladies for a wonderful read! I can’t wait for the next one!

Review by @lizaileen
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Sailors Knot (Eastern Shore Swingers #4) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Liz Vrchota

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

I have really fallen in love with the Eastern Shore Swingers Series from Phoebe Alexander. In fact it was with the very first book, ‘Fisher of Men’, that hooked me on to Phoebe Alexander altogether. She has been a one-click author for me ever since. In ‘Fisher of Men’ we are introduced to Casey Fontane and I have been dying for her full story ever since. ‘Sailors Knot’ is exactly that, and so much more. This is part of a series like I have mentioned. With that said, you could read it as a standalone, but I would recommend that you read the others in the series for the full enjoyment. Everything seems to come full circle and I really loved that experience.

Casey is far away from home, fighting cancer, in California at her sister’s home. This one was a bit further removed from the actual swinger’s club and focused more on Casey’s story both present and past, and how it related to the womens from previous books, Paisley and Leah, lives. Oh my word! I adored Casey’s story. I did not see that one coming! What is even more ironic is that I really needed this book at the exact time I read it! (thank you Ms. Alexander!) There is some great and amazing lessons in love and acceptance to be taken away from reading and absorbing Casey’s story. My heart broke for her, but I also completely understood her and appreciated her decisions that she made.

Whether you know anything about swinging or polyamory, don’t worry, this is all done with precision, class, and extensive knowledge. An important thing when you are new or not to reading this or this experience. I also must say something about the amount of emotion that you can feel while reading this novel. Oh mylanta! I was up and down. From about to tears to fanning myself and blushing. I loved every stinking mood swing! I will say you outdid yourself with this one Phoebe Alexander. I can’t wait to find out what you will do next!

Review by @lizaileen
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Do Not Open Until Halloween by C.A. King ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

Do Not Open Until HalloweenDo Not Open Until Halloween by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this new short from C.A. King. I had no idea what to expect going in other than it would be a great read from a author I have grown to love. This was probably my absolute favorite book from C.A. King yet. I was hooked from the very beginning in with Aunt Petunia’s story in the prologue.

“Fairies are born from emotions and wishes,” Petunia explained. “When you blow a bubble, you fill it up with all you are feeling. That’s why there are different kinds of fairies. Have you ever noticed if you are in a bad mood and blow a few bubbles, you start to feel better? That’s because all of that turmoil is released inside the bubbles.” She poked her niece in the tummy.

Caitlin giggled, Wiggling away.

“Those fairies aren’t the nicest, but on the flip side, if you are celebrating a birthday and are happy, all that joy goes into the making of a different fairy,” Petunia continued.

“What if they pop?” Caitlin asked.

“Oh,” Petunia replied, shaking her head. A serious expression crossed her face. “Many of them do. That is why fairies are so rare. Only a select few float off into the clouds. It’s there that life begins, but that isn’t the end of the struggle for a new fairy. Any bubble that reaches the greatest heights and floats back down has within it the beginnings of a new fairy- magic dust. You’ve heard of fairy dust, haven’t you?”

From the prologue we fast forward to when Caitlin is eighteen years old. Aunt Petunia is no longer the favorite aunt with the magical stories. She is now a recluse bestselling author only socializing when work requires her to. She lives on the outskirts of town in a creepy house with two cats. One day Aunt Petunia stops by and announces that she has to leave for a funeral and needs her to watch her house. The only problem with that is the guy she has been hoping to land some time with before graduation chose this weekend to finally ask her to hang out. When her friends convince her to have a secret get together at the house surely it wont go well for many reasons.

Here is where I really loved the way this book played out so well. This was a wonderfully crafted story, and one that I enjoyed at thirty-three but, I will be adding it to my list of books to share with my eleven year old. This has a great underlying message of anti-bullying. The situations are realistic and yet are done in a way that is appropriate for multiple audience levels. It is fun, engaging, and magical. I felt very much like I was reading a Harry Potter novel. That good magical feeling that you have when you open one of those novels. I don’t want to give away too many more details. For those you will have to buy this for yourself. I wouldn’t wait for the Halloween season either, enjoy it year-round! This one will need to be on my bookshelf! Thanks C.A. King for a wonderfully, magical read!

Review by @lizaileen
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The Plot by Melinda De Ross ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

The PlotThe Plot by Melinda De Ross
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I finished up ‘The Plot’ a few days ago and I have been struggling with the right words to describe my experience with it for some time now. “It was great”, just doesn’t’ seem like enough. “I loved it”, is pretty simplistic too. I think one thing that did stand out to me pretty much consistent throughout while I was reading it though would have to be that I was feeling as if I was getting a full-fledged story, instead of just a one hour glimpse, of one of my all-time favorite television shows. Law and Order: Special Victims Unit.

I had no idea what to expect when I decided to read ‘The Plot’. I had never read anything from Melinda De Ross before, but I can assure you that will be changing here very soon! I was drawn in by the bold cover and the intriguing blurb. I wanted some suspense for the season that is among us with the fall and all. This was perfect. There was never a dull moment. Just when I felt as if I could breathe again something would happen to make me second guess myself all over again. Melinda had a way of weaving the story just right so there was never a lag time.

Yoko lived in a literal hell for four years thanks to Mr. Chen and countless other men like him. They would use her and her body for whatever they pleased and she would see a pittance for it. She is just barely starting over and hardly trusting anyone so when Mark Chandler, her boss, starts to make her feel things she long thought were dead inside her she wonders if she should trust him, could trust him. Would he accept her if he knew her secrets? Then again Mark just might have a few of his own secrets he is hiding too… That you will just have to read and find out for yourself… Happy reading! Thanks for a wonderful read Melinda De Ross! Can’t wait to see what else is in store from you!

Review by @lizaileen
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My Hidden Life: Brothers of Camelot Prequel( My Life Series Book #1) by Necie Navone ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

My Hidden Life: Brothers of Camelot Prequel (My Life Series Book 1)My Hidden Life: Brothers of Camelot Prequel by Necie Navone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Necie Navone was a completely new author to me when I first picked up ‘The Only One’ which is the first book in the Brothers of Camelot series that ‘My Hidden Life’ is the prequel to. I would recommend that you read both of these before you jump into the rest of the series. These are the type of books that are going to need to be read in the right order to make sense, but don’t worry it will be worth it! Necie Navone is one wickedly good story weaver!

There is a lot, and I do mean a lot, going on in this book. We get to know all about Alessndra Canzano or more commonly reffered to as Aless, in this book. We start off when she is very young but grow right along with her as she comes into age and her role as the next in line to take over the family name and “business”. The thing is… this is not your average family “business”. Not only will her life be at stake but all those that she holds near and dear will be in danger too. Can she keep her life hidden? There really is a lot more layers. From action, violence, even some romance, not a lot but a bit, and I think that there will be more to come in the next installment that we will get with her story. That one is the ‘My Tragic Life’ and it is available so I am planning to go start that one as soon as I finish this review. I can’t wait! Thanks for another great read!

Review by @lizaileen
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Our Unexpected Hope by Michelle Sullivan ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

Our Unexpected HopeOur Unexpected Hope by Michelle Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Hope- a simple four-letter word that means having a feeling of expectation or desire for a certain thing to happen. Hope is a word I have used often in my life.”

Well Michelle Sullivan has certainly brought the all the feels to the surface again with this new adult contemporary romance novel. I adored it! Now I have previously read “Our Next Chapter” which isn’t necessarily a requirement to read this one, but it does help to set up the scene of sorts and does add the dimension to the story that isn’t there if you haven’t read it. Both are wonderful novels though so, why not?

With Unexpected Hope though we get the story of Quinn, who is the daughter of Karalyn and Dez, who are the characters from “Our Next Chapter”, and Noah. I loved these two. They were honestly a great couple to follow. Things were realistic with them, never really being flawless, but not too awful in the sense that it wasn’t believable either. I just loved it and I loved how they overcame things or either worked through them. I completely broke when they did, and found myself laughing when they did as well. This was one of those stories you just find yourself drifting off into and not even realizing you are so far removed from things until it is the very last words and you are sad because you want more! This one is definitely a re-read lister! Thanks for a great read Ms. Sullivan.

“Hope. A four-letter word I never thought would be the most important four-letter word in my life. I always had hope in my life.”

Review by @lizaileen
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LOVE, CHRISTMAS 2 – MOVIES YOU LOVE ANTHOLOGY~ Review by Liz Vrchota

Love, Christmas - Movies You Love (The Holiday Series Book 2)Love, Christmas – Movies You Love by Mimi Barbour
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love Christmas:2- Movies You Love

It is that time of year! We get to pull out the cozy blankets and warm up by the fires with a good book. These novels are the perfect ones to do so with! I haven’t had the pleasure of reading every single one just yet but look forward to doing so as the season continues to unfold. I have however read several already and just had to come leave a little review to start because, well there is 26 stories guys! I won’t get this finished till almost in time for the season to finish and I want everyone to go get this before the Holidays are too close to being over so we all can enjoy!

With all that said… This was such an imaginative spin on your favorite Holiday movies. There is 26 stories by 26 different authors. Each author has chosen one and fine tuned it into a modern way that will be sure to keep you entertained well throughout the season. There is something for everyone, from “It’s A Wonderful Life” to “A Charlie Brown Christmas”.

Right now I am reading “Love, Actually” (By the Sea) which is written by Traci Hall. She was a new author to me and I am loving it. “Love Actually” is one of my favorite Holiday movies so I was excited to see that was one of the movies that was used as an inspiration. I have also enjoyed several other stories from authors that I have previously read before, like Tamara Ferguson, Mimi Barbour, and Stephanie Queen. I can’t wait to find out what else is in store for the rest of the novels to come, and I just might have to re-read a few of those I have finished! Thanks for the wonderful reads ladies! Happy Holiday’s!

Books and authors featured:

A Wonderful Life By: Mimi Barbour

A Royal White Christmas By: Leanne Banks

Brianna’s Season For Miracles By: Joan Reeves

Jingle With My Princess By: Mona Risk

Can She Get Home For Christmas By: Rebecca York

Mistletoe Inn By: Jacquie Biggar

A Miracle On Christmas Tree Street By: Alicia Street

The Holiday (Christmas) By: Nancy Radke

Love Letters From A Snowman Katy Walters

Holiday Affair By: Stephanie Queen

Almost Christmas in Connecticut By: Aileen Fish

A Christmas Creek Carol By: Rachelle Ayala

The Polar XPress By: Dani Haviland

Love Actually (By The Sea) By: Traci E. Hall

The Ref-er-ee By: Taylor Lee

Her Mr. Miracle By: Donna Fasano

A Christmas to Remember By: Cynthia Cooke

A Joyous Holiday Inn By: Susan Jean Ricci

Two Hearts Home for Christmas By: Tamara Ferguson

Christmas With the Clouds By: Suzanne Jenkins

How Gavin Stole Christmas By: Natalie Ann

A Sharla Brown Christmas By: Ev Bishop

In the Spirit of Christmas By: Alyssa Bailey

Finding Love on Christmas Vacation By: Stacy Eaton

A Christmas Getaway By: Jen Talty

Boyfriend Wanted for Christmas By: Melinda De Ross

Review by @lizaileen
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Eternal Bloom (Bloom Duet Series #2) by A.E. Gamrat ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

Eternal BloomEternal Bloom by A.E. Gamrat
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in A.E. Gamrat’s Bloom Duet Series. I would not read this one unless you have read “New Bloom” previously. That one really sets you up for this novel. In this installment Gamrat really focuses on the relationship between Gwen and her mother. We still see a real evolution of character with Gwen by the end of the novel but that comes about because of the storm that blows up all around her with her mother’s declining health. We also continue to see more of her and Kame. They are still going back and forth. Kame would in a heartbeat make her his. Gwen is still just not sure. She knows for sure a few things though… Her mother doesn’t approve, and he definitely has some secrets. With the chaos of her mother’s health the last thing she needs is a confusing and secretive man.

Holy cow the emotions in this book were real! As a mother, my heart broke, heck as a daughter it broke. As a woman that has been there and just wanted to find my place in a world that is just so very black and white sometimes, it broke for her. I just wanted to embrace Gwen so many times and tell her that eventually this too will pass like all storms do. Gamrat really has a knack for writing a realistic relationship and the complexities that come with it. Nothing about Gwen’s story was unbelievable, and that made this novel so completely immersive that I found myself extremely gripped. I couldn’t put this down and I honestly wanted more.

I truly enjoyed this duet. I found it to be a really accurate and great coming of age story. I myself feel like this is one I will be shelving to share with my daughter in the near future. I can’t wait to see what else is available from A.E. Gamrat, and what will come in the future. Thanks for a great read!

Review by @lizaileen
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New Bloom (Bloom Duet Series #1) by A.E. Gamrat ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

New BloomNew Bloom by A.E. Gamrat
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was completely new to A.E. Gamrat when I first picked up “New Bloom”. I saw the absolutely gorgeous cover and just had to know what the story was that laid on the pages between them. I am so glad that I picked it up. I do have to say, it was a bit slow on the uptake at first. Once I did get into the story however, I was hooked and very grateful that the second book, “Eternal Bloom” is already available to read.

In “New Bloom” we are first introduced to Gwen. We really get the feel for her as she starts life after college. Before I really get into where this is a coming of age story and how she finds herself and her place in life I want to touch on another part of the story that really hit home with me. Ok here’s the deal, Gwen is an only child, but she also struggles with a lot of issues that an oldest child often deals with. I saw this struggle because I am the oldest daughter of three. I also saw her side of being an only child as I have just one daughter. We often tend to expect a lot of our single children as parents. Especially, those of us who wanted more, but were not able to for some reason or another. It is a struggle that I have faced a lot in my lifetime. I am not making excuses for the character her mother is. (She is a wreck and not very good with the motherly instinct. I was really struggling to not scream out loud at this woman several times.) However, I know that this is my only chance, my only time to experience motherhood and all its firsts. I won’t get a redo, or another go around. I could see where her mother was struggling with that and projecting it on her daughter throughout both of these novels. This was just as much of a strong prevalent story line in the novels as the coming of age story that was portrayed with Gwen.

With that said, this really sets the tone for things. Gwen has been groomed her whole life to be the prefect daughter. Now that she has graduated college that expectation really hasn’t changed, and she is now moving home to help out with her parents flower shop. Gwen is trying hard to find her own voice and balance her relationships. She is struggling to figure out how to do all of these things and still be everything to everyone. Then a new relationship is added to the mix when the mysterious and handsome Kame walks into the flower shop and her life one day. Something isn’t quite what it seems about him though… Watch out for that cliffhanger. Like I said though the second book, “Eternal Bloom”, is available now.

Review by @lizaileen
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Redemption: An Ash Park Novel (Volume #5) – Review by Liz Vrchota

Redemption (Ash Park, #5)Redemption by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“YOU MUST BE READY TO BURN YOURSEF
IN YOUR OWN FLAME;
HOW COULD YOU RISE ANEW IF YOU HAVE
NOT FIRST BECOME ASHES?”
~Friedrich Nietzsche,
Thus Spoke Zarathustra

Phantasmagorical! Yup! I pulled out the big guns and used my thesaurus for this review! I was legit running out of words for Meghan O’Flynn’s Ash Park novels! I hate sounding like a broken record and I want to be as correct as I can. These books are amazing! Buy them all at once! You will want to knock out a day or two, depending on how fast you read, or devour them. I know my family wasn’t very pleased that I ignored them each time I picked one up ha-ha, but I was one that devoured them mostly past my bedtime, and wasn’t so fun the next day though!  I will warn you though, if you read these after dark, they can induce nightmares. (Perfect for that Halloween season that is upon us.)

“Redemption” is the fifth installment of the Ash Park series from Meghan O’Flynn. Here is about where I would really recommend that you go back and read the previous books before you start this one, especially the first one, “Famished”. For this one we go back to the beginning and revisit ‘Looking Glass Killer’ who kidnapped Hannah Montgomery. I have been dying to know what happened to her since the end of Famished. That was a cliffhanger that has been nagging me for four novels now and I was so excited to finally find out how this would all come together. Let me tell you though… In true Meghan O’Flynn fashion there was nothing predictable about it! Nothing! I love this about O’Flynn’s writing! She makes it so much fun to read. I am always some of those that seems to have the movie or book figured out halfway through. It’s an extra treat when I can’t, like an extra bang for my buck! My detective, Petrosky is back and set on figuring out all the pieces of the puzzle, regardless of the danger factor. No spoilers here though. For the juicy bits you will have to pick up a copy for yourself. I will now be waiting with baited breath for the next installment in the series, “The Jilted.” In the meantime, gratefully I there is one more novel by Meghan O’Flynn I can scoop up that I haven’t read yet. Thanks for another great thriller O’Flynn!

“FROM LITTLE SPARK MAY BURST A MIGHT FLAME.”
~DANTE ALIGHIERI, THE DIVINE COMEDY

Review by @lizaileen
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Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides #1) by Kim Koby ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides, #1)Small Town Hero by Kim Koby
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was my first time reading anything from Ms. Kim Koby. I just assumed this would be a sweet romance from the cute and inviting cover. I was very much so correct and then some. This was the perfect Sunday afternoon read. Just something lighthearted to devour. I really enjoyed the banter that eventually built between the two MC’s. However, this book missed the mark a bit for me. I have to say I get where it was going. I just wanted more. More hero, and a little less big city spoiled brat. I get that concept, and it has worked before, a thousand times actually, but here it just never fully developed. With that said it was a cute set up with characters that that I either started out loving or eventually grew on me.

Being stranded in Tennessee is no joke to Rebecca. She is used to expensive things and comfort. On top of not having the creature comforts she is emotionally hurting as well. This all thanks to her ex-fiancé and best friend. Ryan is a local firefighter. He is a polar opposite of Rebecca and prefers the simpler things in life. Ryan also has a painful past that haunts him. For some reason though, these two find a connection and begin to confide in each other. Will they be able to mend each other’s broken pieces? The writing is strong and will have you convinced that there is love in even the most confusing of situations. I would be interested in seeing what the next novel has in store. “Small Town Girl” is available now! Happy reading!

Review by @lizaileen
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Beckoned, Part 5: Adrift in Costa Rica by Aviva Vaughn ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

BECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa RicaBECKONED, Part 5: Adrift in Costa Rica by Aviva Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Sometimes you find yourself
In the middle of nowhere.
And sometimes- in the middle of
Nowhere- you find yourself.”
~Unknown

I really do not know how to review this book without giving some kind of spoiler to a few of the previous installments to the series. So, I will start with this. DO NOT keep reading after this paragraph if you haven’t previously devoured the other four novels, in order, in the Beckoned series from Aviva Vaughn. I promise it will not be, for naught. Curl up with a blanket and your favorite beverage and let Aviva take you on a whirlwind of a vacation…

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dearest Soren,

Thank you for some of the most beautiful memories of my entire life.
I’ll never forget you.
Always,
Angela

Literally, I was bawling here! I mean, I know this was for the best. I knew that it had a point and was going to make sense at some point, but… WHY?

Well, because all great things have a twist, especially novels. Aviva Vaughn writes a lot like the classics, Jane Austen especially. She loves her slow burn and realistic writing. I personally do as well. It is believable and gripping. I often feel as if I am sitting right there in the same room as the characters, or on the beaches of Costa Rica. I can taste the foods, and smell the saltwater on the air. Her story lines are just as realistic and this is ever present in the story of Soren. Which is the most focused on character in this installment of Beckoned.

Soren is figuring out how to recover from losing Angela. A haste decision finds him in Costa Rica. He learns to surf. It is through surfing that he meets the beautiful Elena. The two hit it off, and although Soren proceeds with caution he is willing to proceed at least. But… don’t get too excited, there is a twist around every bend. There is more to Elena than she is telling. Will the past get in the way again?

IF you need any bonuses to this gem, there is a great playlist, featured at the back of the book. AND… A delicious recipe (yup I tried it!) For Elena’ Sol’s Tres Leches Cake is included in the back as well. I was blown away once more by this installment of Beckoned. The overall experience was inclusive and I truly felt like it was a getaway for a day, like I stepped into the world of Soren and Elena. I was so excited when I found out that there would be another one coming soon. “Beckoned, Part 6: Adrift in New Zealand”. Thank you for another fantastic book ‘getaway’ Ms. Vaughn!

Review by @lizaileen
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Moments that Define Us (A Gray Ghost Prequel Book 0) by Amy McKinley ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

Moments That Define Us (Gray Ghost #0.5)Moments That Define Us by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This novella sets the stage for the adult Gray Ghost series.

This was a lot of book for just under seventy pages! I have personally read the rest of the Gray Ghost Novels from Amy McKinley and I am still pondering if this is one of those prequel novellas that must be read before you read the books that come first or not? I for one feel like this opened my eyes to a lot of things that may have just not quite had clicked for me before after reading the previous two. I do wonder if that was intentional though of the author all along. Especially after reading this latest book. Regardless, I would highly recommend that at some point all the books in the series.

This one really does exactly what it says it will. It shows us how these teenage boys came into the adults they are today. These boys have suffered in their own individual ways. It has led them to live a paramilitary lifestyle and form a group to protect the abused and weak. In a way they could be described as a modern day group of ‘Robin Hoods’. These are the reasons why they are the way they are. I loved this one, and I can’t wait to find out what will come next in book three, Beneath the Surface!

“All right, Watters. Let’s make a deal.”

Review by @lizaileen
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The Nearness of You by K.G. Fletcher – Review by Liz Vrchota

The Nearness of YouThe Nearness of You by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“What more can I give to you? Whatever you want. I’ll even fly you to the moon if you should ask…”
She smiled looking up into his face, the last beautiful colors of the sunset illuminating her radiant expression. “I only ask for one thing.”
“What is it my love?”
“The nearness of you… always.”

Be still my heart… Ugh this book ripped me apart, in all the right ways. I really shouldn’t be surprised by now with K.G. Fletcher, she blows me out of the water every time with her novels. I must confess though, this one has to be my absolute favorite of hers. I think the playlist (included in the back of the novel) playing on repeat while I devoured this was just the icing on the cake for me. I would highly recommend that you play it to enhance your experience. I had a feeling I would love this when I found out it was loosely based off of one of Fletcher’s cabaret pieces but my word I had no idea just how much. If I could rate this more stars I would. It is definitely in my top ten reads of 2018!

Lauren Rose, I just loved her. She is an old soul, a lot like myself, and I could really connect with her. She is a lounge singer and has a passion for music. She wants to make it big but for now has been happy living her life in Atlanta. Everything is about to change when she meets the very handsome David Randle.

David pretty much has it all, and a bag of chips. Yup, I can’t really say much negative about this man. He is a British super-model, and a sweetheart. I’ll take three please… He had no idea what he was getting himself into when he started to fall for the girl with the dreamy voice performing at his sister’s wedding. These two are perfect together and the magic brings the music to life right off the screen of your kindle. I couldn’t put it down.

Don’t’ worry though, things are not so fairy-tale perfect. K.G. keeps you on your toes! Things get really interesting when we meet David’s assistant Sabrina Watson. This will story will be a world wind, steamy, intriguing, and heartwarming read you won’t want to put down till you finish it in one sitting. I personally can’t wait to go back and read it again. Thanks so much for another great read K.G. Fletcher!

Review by @lizaileen
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Romance in Rehoboth Boxed Set by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Liz Vrchota

Romance in Rehoboth Boxed Set (Books 1-3)Romance in Rehoboth Boxed Set by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fat Girl: Romance in Rehoboth Book #1

 

Besides the Autumn poets sing
A few prosaic days
A little this side of the snow
And that side of the Haze…
Grant me, Oh Lord, a sunny mind-
Thy windy will to bear!
~Emily Dickinson

Once again, like I so often find myself with anything written by KL Montgomery, I am at a loss of how to do this novel justice with a review. It is hard when a book so greatly resounds with you and your life to put exactly into words how that makes you feel as you are reading, and long after you are finished. I think most of us book fanatics understand the feeling and so a simple opinion will just have to do. I highly recommend that you pick up this novel, and the rest of the series that is available now! One-click the whole series, and prepare to fall in love with Rehoboth.

Claire Sterling is dealing with a lot of life changes. You could call it a midlife crisis, but that is just because it happens to be taking place just shy of her 40th birthday. See, Claire is now a newly single mom, a divorcee to be, and a, well, a ‘fat girl’. She is struggling to find her identity as a woman facing all these obstacles that have just been dumped in her path. Throw in the fact that she now has to move home with her parents in Delaware and that she has a job writing a blog type reoccurring spot for the New York Times, and well you have a perfect equation for some funny stories and times.

In her column, Her Reinvention, she faces her problems head on, and very publically. Her Reinvention is full of her self-depreciating antics, funny dating mishaps, basically her actual ‘reinvention’ is on display, and it makes for some awesome reading material. Her humor really resounded with me. I feel like I often make something funny so that I don’t have to cry. This is something that I know a lot of women face and could connect to. I loved following her journey. I was sad when the book ended. Claire still has a lot to learn and fix so to speak, but she is stronger and a bit more confident by the end of the novel.

Another positive that I feel is worth mentioning, KL Montgomery incorporates the seasons in the novel by breaking it up into sections with poems/quotes that ring true to the seasons of life. This is something I love to see in novels. Poetry/quotes are a huge addiction of mine and I feel like it really is another great way to connect the reader to the story.

Thank you for another strong, body positive, and realistic story KL Montgomery. I can’t wait to see what else is to come from you!

How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!
-Thomas Wentworth Higginson

Behold, my friends, the spring is come;
the earth has gladly received the embraces of the sun,
And we shall soon see the results of their love!
-Sitting Bull

Then followed that beautiful season…
Summer…
Filled was the air with a dreamy and magical light;
And the landscape
Lay as if new created in all the freshness of childhood.
-Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers. It would be terrible if we just skipped from September to November, wouldn’t it?”
-Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

The Flip: Romance in Rehoboth Book #2
KL Montgomery is an automatic one-click author for me. I am always finding things I can relate to in her characters. This book was not anything different and I loved every second of my time spent at the beach with Andrew and Sonnet. This is the perfect poolside read, if you are like me and don’t have access to a beach, otherwise, go read this at the beach!

“Tonight is one of those brilliant sunsets you never want to end.”

The Flip is the second book in the Romance in Rohoboth series, but it can be read as a standalone. I don’t know why you would though because it too is a five-star read! The Flip has the same ring of rom-com that is prevalent in a lot of KL Montgomery’s work. I found myself laughing a lot of the book. Who doesn’t need a little more laughter and love in their lives?

Andrew and Sonnet can’t stand each other, at least that is what they thought at first. High school rivals they were glad to be rid of each other after graduation. Well not for long. Penelope Vaughn has a different plan in mind. Upon her death she gifts her beachfront property to both of them. Penelope was Andrew’s great aunt. Her connection to Sonnet is that she used to be her neighbor that she went to and sought comfort from in times of need.

The house really needs some work. The two feel like they could manage to ‘flip’ the house together. They both could use the money and have the profits set to be used for their dreams. The process isn’t as easy as it sounds though for them. Can they work together to get through this or will they continue to bash heads at every turn? What will happen when they start to see more than an irritant and enemy in each other? Will they be willing to open up their hearts to the idea of love?

I loved Sonnet. Her classy but sassy attitude is very much like myself and I really connected to her on that level. I also loved that she was strong-willed and knew what she wanted. She didn’t back down ever to Andrew and I loved that. We need more strong positive women to read about and represent for the women of this world that aren’t afraid to live in the skin they are in.

“I roll my eyes. I figure by the end of the summer, my eye muscles will be the strongest ones in my entire body, they’re going to get such a work out from dealing with Andrew Clark.”

“Boundaries, Andrew, ever heard of them?”

Andrew was also a fun guy to read about. He is strong willed as well, hence their clashing personalities. He also has a joker personality, and is funny and entertaining. His secret is that he is just a big teddy bear. A soft and sweet heart, and I loved that about him. He really grew on me.

I can’t wait to see what will come with the next book, Badge Bunny! I am sure whatever is to come will be my next obsession from KL Montgomery!!

“I know this look. And I know what it means. And I know what is happening. Every single one of my brain cells is telling me to step back, to turn my cheek, to purse my lips, but my thundering heartbeat is drowning out their pleas. Even my brain can be ignored.”

Plot Twist: Romance in Rehoboth #3
K.L. Montgomery really hits the nail on the head with this funny and entertaining Rom-Com. I have not read the other books (yet) in the Rehoboth series from her but I will be doing so soon. I loved that this book was its own force though and I was able to get lost in it without reading the others. I found myself laughing out loud, and rooting for our main characters to find the happiness they so much deserved.

Lindy is a strong curvy woman, with an attitude. She doesn’t let her self-conscious issues stop her from trying to accomplish her dreams of being in the entertainment industry. Instead she feels like she could be the next big cartoon character’s voice, maybe even a Disney princess someday? She needs flexibility in her life as she right now is tasked with taking care of her aging parents and is living with them. During the day she is a teacher at Delmarva Academy, when school is in session. She does get summers off and during this time her best of friends manage to convince her to try out for a local musical.

It is there that she meets the dashing Meric Chandler. Meric is an accountant by day, with a personality of a reserved hermit. What most people don’t know about him is his passion for theatre. It is when he is on stage that he comes out of his shell and shines brightest.

One disaster after another leaves the two finding themselves front and center of the production. Both of them begin to develop feelings for each other but are putting a hold on them because of their past issues. Lindy is terrified of putting her heart on the line. Meric is healing his heart after a bitter divorce and is not looking for a new relationship right now. Sometimes life has a way of changing our best intentions and plans and these two find themselves having a difficult time avoiding the strong feelings at the forefront. Will they be able to overcome their fears and find that happily ever after they both think that is impossible to achieve? Or will the pressures they self-impose get in the way of any future happiness they could have together?

I am itching to read the other books that are part of the Romance in Rehoboth series. I will also be keeping an eye for more installments in the future from KL Montgomery. I can guarantee this book promises laughter, love, and the right amount of tearful moments to balance it all. You won’t be disappointed you joined Lindy and Meric on their journey together. I am sure you will be finding yourself falling in love with these characters as much as I have. This is a strong five star read that will take you away from the stresses of life and have you laughing for a few hours. This is the perfect rainy day read, or even a day by the pool read.

Review by @lizaileen
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Painting Kuwait Violet by Pamela Q. Fernandes – Review by Liz Vrchota

Painting Kuwait VioletPainting Kuwait Violet by Pamela Q. Fernandes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Painting Kuwait Violet is set against the backdrop of the oil rich 1996 Kuwait. This is also a distressful time for women, well ok all time really has been for women there to be real. I struggled with this most of the novel. Then again I am one of those that has that internal struggle with time. One that stops and thinks, ‘oh it wasn’t really only 1998 ten years ago, more like it was twenty. Time flies, and while it seems like some things drastically change, other things brutally can stay the same. This is a theme that is well touched on throughout the entirety of this novel. I think it was a chance for many opportunities to address a lot of things that not your average woman would be aware of or educated on and should be more aware of. It didn’t necessarily fall completely short. However, I felt it could have expounded in a few places. Pamela Q. Fernandes was a completely new author to me when I picked up this novel, so I had no idea what I was going to get, and I was pleasantly surprised.

With all that said this book gets up close and personal with the journey of Violet Baretto. She is forced to take on a position to pay off her family’s debt. One that is way below her on multiple levels. There is many layers to this story though, not just the class and social differences that Violet faces, but the mystery and intrigue that are involved when Saba Dashti, Violet’s mistress, is introduced to the storyline. I was kept on the edge of my seat through the majority of the story and all of my questions were wrapped up by the end of the novel. Overall, it was a neat and well packaged four star read for me. I would be interested to see what else available from Pamela Q. Fernandes is in the very near future!

Review by@lizaileen
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Alterations Trilogy: Alterations, Game Changer, Primal Will by Jane Suen – Review by Liz Vrchota

ALTERATIONS TRILOGY: Alterations, Game Changer, Primal WillALTERATIONS TRILOGY: Alterations, Game Changer, Primal Will by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Alterations Book #1

“Oh, God no. What have I done?” ~Dr. Kite

“If only, this time, they could control the mind. The body they could now fix-not just for cosmetic reasons, but to cure people who were ill like Gigi, destroying the defective cells and replacing them with healthy ones. Once he perfected this microchip, he would have riches beyond imagination. How many people? Millions, no billions. Why, he’d even offer different grades of this microchip to make it more affordable. He could almost hear the people clamoring for it.” ~Dr. Kite

Wow this was such a good read. It had a lot of good material packed in a short punch and I loved it. It really made me think, kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next, and even had me yelling at my kindle a few times. I have really expanded my reading genera’s this last year to include more of the futuristic and dystopian novels that I would have normally never picked up, and I must confess I am so very happy that I have. Jane Suen is one author in this area that never lets me down. She writes with such a beautiful flow and imagination that I can completely see this happening right now and it being completely for seeable. I love that about her novels and this one was no different.

First off, we meet Gigi, right as she is about to make a very rash and permanent decision, when suddenly Dr. Kite’s men step in and thankfully save her from herself. Or do they? Throughout the novel she tries to figure out what happened to her that day. What will happen when she links it all back to the decision she made to save her life and heal her body years ago from a disease that was killing her spirit and as much as her health?

“We gave you perfection, how could you not want that? No disease, no malfunctioning organs, every cell optimized and in perfect working order.”

Next, we meet Lilly Cooper, bitter and angry after her recent divorce. She is struggling to come to terms with living life and battling her demons at the same time. Will the doctor be able to help her or will it be worth the risks involved?

“She wondered, was is a display of her chip gone bad, or did it become an instrument to release her deepest desire, her dark evil within?” ~Lilly

Ellen Fullbright has spent her entire life being the butt of all the bullies jokes and teasing. She just wants to fit into her size six dress for her cousin’s upcoming wedding, but she has hit that plateau and is feeling hopeless when she stumbles upon and alterations shop that promises her a permanent fix if she follows the directions on a little white card. Will she be able to follow through?

Game Changer Book #2

I can’t honestly say enough good things about this book, but I will try to narrow it down a bit for this review. I can see this whole series as a movie. I would wait with baited breath for each episode. It is a gripping experience, with emotional, suspenseful, mysteries and so much more. Game Changer is actually the second book in the Alterations Trilogy from Jane Suen. I had no idea that there was going to be another book, so was thrilled when I found out there is another after this one. I would highly recommend that you go back and start with book one before you dive into this one. Actually… maybe not read this review from here because it will spoil it…

If you read book one… This one picks up exactly…”One year, three months and two days after the fire destroyed Dr. Kite’s warehouse.” The fire is where book one left off. From here the story delves into the lives of the women that were in book one and Dr. Kite. It is written in a format where you get little glimpses, stories about where each character is at, and what they are doing, since the fire destroyed everything that Dr. Kite had on the chips that he implanted in the women.

We find out Dr. Kite is not doing so hot after the fire. He has kind of given up on life since his main project, which was his baby, has been destroyed. He moved away and is still in a funk. I want to like him though, not sure why? There was a feeling as if it was building into something with his character but then left off… Maybe a twist there?

“He looked at his rumpled pants, still full of creases from the day before, and the worn brown belt with the dull buckle at his waist, his crinkled, blue cotton shirt barely tucked in. Disgusted with himself, he quietly retreated, cursing his appearance, wishing he could change her first impression of him.”

Ellen is blown away when her pregnancy test came back positive. She actually finds herself good at being a single mom. She will stop at nothing to give her daughter the best life she possibly can. Her story also ended with an odd question or two in mind… Another twist coming?

“Thoughts swirled in her head. How can this be? Me, a mother? I lost weight, but I’m gaining something else- a baby!”

Then we have Gigi, I really enjoy her. She is discovering how amazing it is to be in true love and I was happy to see that she was having some peace. Her story was pretty open-ended so I could see where there will be more of her in the next novel.

“As she rounded the corner, Rex came into view, dressed in a plaid shirt, jeans, and work gloves. Her heart raced as she laid her eyes on him. Her man.”

Lilly, last but not least, is throwing herself into a new phase in her life. She has been training women for no one knows exactly, but I didn’t get a good vibe from the situation. Definitely did not get the full answers to my burning questions.

“She stood in the middle of the circle, surrounded by women. Pivoting slowly, Lilly looked around, locking eyes with each in a silent greeting. Altogether, an even dozen. An exclusive group.”

As these stories unfold you find them culminating into a lot of questions. What will come next? What will happen to each of them? Does all their separate lives have any ties other than their history with the chip? I can’t believe that this would be easy to end in just one more book, but bring it on Jane Suen. I will be impatiently waiting over here.

Primal Will Book #3

I am so sad to see this trilogy come to an end. It is bittersweet because I was excited to find out how this would all come together, yet I didn’t want it to end. I can only hope that the ‘loose ends’ that Suen left us with will mean a potential spin-off series in the near future. When I first discovered Jane Suen I was looking for something different at the time from my typical romance happy ending storylines. I got so much more than I was even expecting then, and Suen has continued to reel me in and bring me back for more. I love that nothing from her is typical or expected. Definitely not predictable, and that makes for some great reading material! I chose to read this novel on a cool and rainy day under the covers with some hot tea, and it was the perfect way to spend my afternoon.

Given that this is the third book in a trilogy, I would highly recommend that you read books one, Alterations. Followed by book two, Game Changer. I would do so before you read this one, and this review. Inevitably there will be spoilers from previous novels, but I will do my best to keep them minimal.

This trilogy has been centered on three women and the man that links them all together with his ‘mad science’. This will pick up right where we left off in Game Changer. The women are coming full circle now and this is kind of an update as to where the characters are. Gigi, Ellen, and Lilly are finding where they belong in this world. Dr. Kite is along for the ride as well and we get more of the multiple POV’s which enriches the story. This is a fast and short read, mostly tying up the loose ends if you will from the previous two books. I was left hanging with a few questions, but like I said, I can only hope that means that a spin-off series is in the works or could be in the works. Overall, I was really happy with how the trilogy played out. I enjoyed the themes of self-discovery, dystopian worlds, romance, and so much more being woven throughout each novel. I can’t wait to see what will come next from Jane Suen!!

Review by @lizaileen
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Give and Take (The Thorne Brothers) by Lee Kilraine ~ Review by Liz Vrchota

Give and Take (The Thorne Brothers, #2)Give and Take by Lee Kilraine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Six Brothers Construction was built to reunite a family and heal a painful past. So far it’s opened to rave reviews. But the youngest sibling is about to discover that the right woman can shake eve a rock-solid foundations…”

This was my first time reading anything from Lee Kilraine. Now this is the second book in a series, The Thorne Brothers to be exact, but it didn’t hinder my enjoyment of this one that I had not read the first. I will be going back to do so now that I know about it and have enjoyed this one so much. There was a wonderful flow to the writing banter that went back and forth between our two main characters that I just couldn’t get enough of. I hope to find more of that in future couples to come as well.

In this novel we get the story of Wyatt Thorne. He hasn’t had things so easy. In fact he had an extremely traumatic childhood. This led him to live a speechless few years until he was about six. From that age he found the peace he needed in creativity. In creating things with his hands. The solitude it provided him allowed him to come out of his shell just enough to blend into the world, and start a successful business.

“Fun? Thank you, Wyatt? No. I didn’t sign up for this. It was bad enough we had to use my office for meetings, but this- this sharing an office with a talking rainbow… no.”

Wyatt’s complex but in place life is blown upside down when Rhia Hollis sweeps into it. Fate and his older brother Beckett has decided to put her in his path and he has to figure out exactly what he is going to do now. She is the complete opposite of him; loud and boisterous, and worst of all she never stops talking! The one thing they do have in common is their creativity. Rhia is a party planner and starting up her party planning business.

“Seize the day.”

So if these two are such opposites and forced to work in such close spaces for so much of their time what will happen? You do know what they say about opposites attract? For all those juicy details and more you will have to pick up this little gem for yourself and read for yourself…

“Then since you know more about me than I apparently know about myself… tell me, Rhia, what does feed my soul if not architecture?”

Review by@lizaileen
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