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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by M Policicchio

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3)Slay It With a Diamond by Rob Bates
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was my first book by this author and not my usual cup of tea, but it was interesting and sprinkled with a few twists and kept the action moving to keep my interest.

Mimi isn’t where she thought she would or wants to be. Mimi had a short lived career as a journalist and when that ended she wound up working for her father in his diamond store. She is in a long-term relationship with Michael, but she is not sure where that is headed because after a year together, she has yet to meet his daughter or his mother.

When Mimi reaches out to an old friend about a writing job, the friend, Rosalyn, asks about meeting with Mimi’s dad to sell a diamond. The diamond is a rare black diamond that is supposedly cursed. When the diamond causes problems for a different friend of Mimi’s, she feels the need to investigate the history of the diamond to prove that it is not cursed. Through this process, Mimi also finds out what happened to Rosalyn.

Mimi puts her life, her father’s business, her relationship with Michael and her freedom at risk to solve this mystery. With all the twists and suspects along the way, a solution is found!!

The book was a good way to spend a rainy afternoon.

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Wicked Ends: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Series, Book 8 ) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

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Wicked Ends (Hidden Valley Elite #8)Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I know I have said this before in my reviews of this series, but it is one of the best series I have ever read. The characters are realistic, diverse, likable, smart, funny and bad. One of the overriding themes throughout the series, especially between the boys is family. They would do anything for those they care about and as each finds their special one, the circle gets a little bigger.

In the conclusion of the series, Winter and Shane are each chasing ghosts. Winter remembers more of what happened to her sister and Shane is being haunted not only by his father but a fling that won’t let him go. Things get more complicated with an almost abduction of Winter. Shane faces more pressure from his father for money. Shane’s grandfather wants to help but his assistance comes at a price, sometimes too steep to pay.

When the truth is finally revealed about what happened to Winter and her sister on that horrible day, Shane and Winter are linked more than they ever knew. One thing is for sure, they will be forever linked.

The Bonus Epilogue nearly had me in tears. It was beautiful and amazing. It was a nearly perfect ending to the series. The only way it would have been more perfect would have been to set up the next generation. But that is just me being greedy because I don’t want to let these characters go. I felt such a loss at the end of this book that I had to blindly watch TV for the rest of the night. I wasn’t emotionally ready to say goodbye. I needed time before moving on.

To the author: Thank you for these characters. Thank you for these stories. I look forward to your next book, the next series, the next whatever you do because you have found a permanent spot on my TBR list and my shelf!!

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Mission Target (Jake Wolfe Thrillers Book 7) by Mark Nolan – Review by M Policicchio

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Mission Target (Jake Wolfe, # 7)Mission Target by Mark Nolan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jake and Cody rule. There are just no two ways about it. They are classy and fun.

So much has happened since my last Jake and Cody thrill ride. Cody has puppies!! No surprise that they are super smart and helpers, just like Cody. Okay, I digress.

While enjoying some time off in the Florida Keys, Jake is contacted by his Secret Service contact about needing Jake for a job. It is during this job that Jake finds out about a new weapon being used against citizens of the US, a new drug that is deadly and being used to taint the drug supply. This new lethal combination is causing havoc throughout the drug trade, even in-fight within the cartels.

Jake and Cody have been tasked with taking down as many of the traffickers that they can find to stop or at least stem the tide of this new drug entering the US. As Jake and Cody do their thing, it paints a large bullseye on not only them but friends and family. Jake and Cody must work within the law to keep everyone safe, especially themselves.

The action in this book does not stop. Whether it is guns blazing or Jake and Cody saving senior citizens from bullies on the beach, Jake and Cody are in constant motion. The author does not fail to entertain or keep you guessing. There are a few surprises sprinkled throughout.

Here is to Jake and Cody saving the world (or at least some part of it) again and again!!! Fantastic read.

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The Inquisitor (WaterFyre Rising Book 4) by Nadia Han – Review by M Policicchio

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The Inquisitor (WaterFyre Rising, #4)The Inquisitor by Nadia Han
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As the boys from WaterFyre Rising continue to take on the criminal network that threatened their lives when they were young, Forrest takes care of some personal business. In this thrilling addition to the series, Forrest discovers that beauty is more than meets the eye.

Forrest is on a mission of revenge with the men that killed his father. He is two-thirds of the way done when he is distracted by a woman that he can’t seem to get out of his head. Forrest has known her for ages as she mingles in his friend circles. On a photo shoot with her, their chemistry takes over and they share one night. She disappears and Forrest doesn’t know why.

After the best night of her life, Kiera receives a phone call that her mother is in the hospital and she takes off. Her mother’s declining health has been Kiera’s sole focus for the last six months. Kiera takes a photography job in Texas to ensure that she can pay for her mom’s treatment. Kiera runs into Forrest while in Texas and they reconnect. Kiera wants to keep her distance but Forrest won’t let that happen.

As Forrest and Kiera rediscover each other, an outside force is trying to keep them apart. Kiera is kidnapped. She appears in a special auction. Forrest bids and wins her. It doesn’t end there. As the outside force is revealed, it creates different problems. Hearts are broken.

This author takes the reader on another outstanding, intense thrill ride. Find the time to read this one.

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Themes of Kismet by A. Akinosho – Review by M Policicchio

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Themes OF Kismet: A Multicultural Meet Cute RomanceThemes OF Kismet: A Multicultural Meet Cute Romance by A Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was my first read by this author. Despite the fact that she gets too wordy sometimes but not wordy enough others, overall a delightful read. There were enough twists and turns, curves out of nowhere to keep you reading.

Noah is your typical 13 year old boy, but even moodier because his vacation is getting cut short because of his little sister’s accident. When his mother decides to take him on a walk in the airport to improve his mood, Noah doesn’t expect to find the love of his life. She was reaching for a book on a high shelf, Noah grabbed for her and when she appeared too distraught to read, Noah read to her. That chance meeting in an airport sealed their fates together.

When Noah sees her again, he remembers her. She remembers him. Ebun can’t believe her luck. When things are falling apart around her, she crosses paths with the one person that seems to calm her storms, if only briefly. Ebun’s life is not what it seems to be. When her mother died, she thought she would be going to live with her father only to discover that he was appointing a guardian for her and she was going to remain in London. Ebun and her father visit and spend time with each other but it is not the same. When her father dies unexpectedly, Ebun is left without family except for the half-brother’s she didn’t even know she had.

Life gets more complicated for Ebun when one of her brothers threatens her life and tries to steal her inheritance. This causes Ebun to lead a life of constant movement, never staying in one place for very long, constantly changing her looks, using colored contacts as part of her disguise, and limiting the number of people close to her. When she crosses paths with Noah for a third time, she takes the chance and spends more time with him. As they get to know one another, Noah and Ebun quickly fall in love with the other but never say it. Ebun’s life is still in too much flux for her to settle down or want to bring Noah into her drama.

Over the course of the next several years, Noah and Ebun travel to be with each other across the globe. When Noah pushes for more, Ebun runs. She is too afraid of the family drama to allow her heart what it desires, a life with Noah. As family and friends stick their noses into Noah and Ebun’s relationship, drama and chaos ensue. Hearts are broken. New bonds are forged. Long, lost family is discovered. Stalkers issue threats. Can Noah and Ebun ever find happiness? One can not deny the pull of kismet, the strings of fate.

Take the time to cross the globe in love and adventure with Noah and Ebun. It is worth it.

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Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite Book 7) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

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Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite #7)Wicked Games by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don’t know why I expect any less than the best from this author’s books. I have been sucked into this series from the very beginning. I am so very sad to see the ending in sight.

This one picks up right where Cruel Love ended, with Shane in deep doodoo. Even though most of that situation is taken care of, the dark cloud it leaves hanging over Shane isn’t. He feels guilty about what happened and it is affecting him, probably more than he realizes. When a blast from his past is sitting in the local coffee spot, Shane just about melts down. The one girl he cared about since he was 10 years old. The only problem is that she did not return his affection, she teased and tortured Shane.

Winter needed to spread her wings after living with her foster parents for 8 years. Transferring to Thane University, where her foster brother goes, is one step she is taking to reclaim some of her independence. When Winter receives a letter about her mom’s upcoming parole hearing, being back where it all happened may not be the best thing. WInter’s mom killed her sister and nearly killed Winter when she was just 10 years old. Winter’s world was in turmoil when she met Shane and she did the absolute worst thing, she was cruel to him because she was in pain and no one seemed to care.

When Winter saw him on campus, she didn’t immediately recognize him. Shane had grown up and changed in the last 10 years. Shane understood this and, as part of his revenge plan, gave Winter a fake name. When Winter finds out who Shane actually is, it brings back a flood of memories from that time and the guilt and shame of what she did to him. Before Shane has the chance to explain, things start to heat up.

I don’t know if I can wait for the next book. I don’t know if I want to read it. I mean, I completely and totally do because I need to find out who did it. But that also means that the series is over and my heart will be broken. I imagine that the book hangover from this series will include a weekend in bed with some ice cream and binging the entire series again. I want to find out. I need to find out. I don’t want to find out. Bring on Wicked Ends.

Oh just in case I didn’t spell it out, this book was brilliant.

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Fractured Hearts-Prospect (Grimm Wolves MC Book 7) by D.M. Earl – Review by M Policicchio

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Fractured Hearts-Prospect (Grimm Wolves MC Book 7)Fractured Hearts-Prospect by D.M. Earl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was my first venture into the world of the Grimm Wolves. Although I was clearly missing some history, it was easy to catch on to the characters and their places. Excellent story.

Celestina “Celee” is finally escaping her past with a plan. She has run away with a biker. This is going to work. Now if she can just find a way to stay ahead of those hunting her, she will be okay.

Frank or Dingo is that biker. They met online and he fell hard. Now that he has his Celee within his grasp, he is not letting go. He will do anything to protect her, even risk his patch. Frank is just a prospect with the Grimm Wolves. This could cost him everything. The Grimm Wolves have become his family, since his birth family was a nightmare.

As Frank and Celee grow closer, so does the threat to them and the club. To Celee’s surprise, the Grimm Wolves help protect her every step of the way. The biggest surprise is when her cousin, Shadow, comes to aid in the plan to keep her safe. When it all goes down, Celee and Frank discover strengths they didn’t know they had and realize that family is more than just biology.

This book does not disappoint from the beginning until the end. Action and excitement from the start. Another amazing story from this author.

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Saint Con by Seelie Kay – Review by M Policicchio

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Saint ConSaint Con by Seelie Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book had more twists and turns than I was expecting. The characters were fun. I would love to know the background between Sydney and Dan. The action is nonstop.

When Jessica bumps into a wall of muscle outside a bar bathroom, she didn’t know it was the Connor O’Brien. She also didn’t realize all the chaos that would result. One day she is fine by herself, the next day she is involved with Connor O’Brien. He tells her that she is the one and he is never letting her go. When he stands her up for their first official date, she feels like a fool. Turns out, he didn’t exactly stand her up. Connor was beaten and kidnapped.

Connor O’Brien thought he was going to be a priest but thanks to a negative encounter with an interested professor, it was decided that the priesthood was not for him. Connor went to law school and became a “street lawyer”. He used an old food truck as his office and met the clients where they were. He catered to the homeless and folks that could not afford traditional lawyers. He was known as Saint Con throughout the neighborhoods he worked.

One day, he was beaten up in his office and then disappeared. The police could do nothing because there was no evidence of a crime. His un-official girlfriend couldn’t report him missing, yet. The cops told her only his family could. When they got to town, his family got the run-around. No evidence, no crime, no missing person. However, the community led by Jessica pulled together and started searching. Through leads and other avenues, Connor was found.

I don’t want to give too much away here. But it was not easy sailing from there. With a second abduction, the hunt for Connor is once again on. Can Connor survive long enough to even have a relationship with Jessica?

Never a dull moment in this book. It is a super quick read for the number of pages. A good story!!

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Truck Stopped (Satan’s Devils MC) Audiobook by Manda Mellett – Review by M Policicchio

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Once again this author has us delving into the world of the Satan’s Devils MC and finding happiness.  There is such a feeling of home and friendship each time I hop into this world.  Sure the characters are rough and grumbly.  This may not be everyone’s idea of family.  But through each and every book I have read or heard in this series, love, friendship, family are the overarching themes.  They, down to every last man, do what they need to do for the ones they love, including their brothers.  

 

This one was unique as it is told through a series of flashbacks as two of the mainstay characters reflect on the past.  Drummer and Peg tell this story.  As I listened, I came to realize that this was the series ender, at least of this chapter.  So let me set the stage.  

 

Truck had gotten patched in and was off doing his firefighting duty in California.  Truck was injured on the job.  He returned to Arizona but not to the club.  He has put off seeing everyone.  

 

Allie has been at the Club for going on 10 years.  Not that she hasn’t enjoyed the life that being with the Club has offered her but she is realizing that she might want something more.  She isn’t looking to be an Old Lady, she just doesn’t want to be what she is anymore.  When the Club members start noticing that she hasn’t been fulfilling all of her club duties, Drummer calls her into his office and has a discussion.  

 

Allie is tasked with a special job.  Reach out to Truck and see if she can talk to him.  Get him to come back to the club.  When Allie does make contact with Truck, it only highlights that Allie doesn’t want to be what she is anymore.  There has to be something else for her in this life.  

 

This is where I wanted to smack some sense into Truck.  The way he talks to and about Allie.  UGH!!!  I get it.  I do.  But, just ugh!  Luckily for both myself and Allie, one of the brothers manages to talk some sense into Truck.  *insert happy dance here!*  But even after getting what you want, life isn’t all rainbow colored candy and beer.  Each, Truck and Allie, make some life-altering decisions that have ripple-effect consequences.  

 

In the end, Truck and Allie find their version of happiness.  If I haven’t mentioned it before, I love, love, love this series.  I have slowly started branching out the other chapters and 2nd Gen, but my heart will always be true to the mother chapter.  One day, I will learn to ride a motorcycle or get some really good AI app, and ride off into the sunset with these characters.  Until then, I will slowly add book after book to my library!!  Satan’s Devils ride together!!  Ride Satan’s Devils!!! 

Faking the Fall (Buckeye Falls Book 4) by Libby Kay – Review by M Policicchio

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Faking the Fall (Buckeye Falls #4)Faking the Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alice hasn’t found her place in Buckeye Falls or anyplace else in this world. She has wondered, she has learned, she has sought, she has adjusted, but she has never felt at home. Being labeled the “wild child” of the town due to her parents being the official first couple and her civic minded, straight-laced, do-good brother, Alice could never catch a break. Now she is back in town, living with her parents, until she either makes plans to get out of town or finds a way to fit in without losing herself.

James retreated when his world blew up. He divorce was public and savage. He has found a small slice of freedom and privacy in Buckeye Falls. The only problem is that he has lost his ability to create, which is kinda important since he is a painter. An perhaps fateful meeting of Alice and all of his creativity comes pouring back into him. James can’t understand the pull he feels towards Alice, the need to protect and defend her, but it tugs at him.

Alice and James get thrown together on the decorations committee for the Fall Festival. Once the rumors start, Alice devises a plan to convince James to fake date her to get the town gossips to get their noses out of her love life. It all seems to work out, except the fake dating feels real to both of them. When they both admit this, they start for reals dating. Outside forces still plot to break them apart. Will they survive?

James and Alice are an adorable couple. He finds her quirks and weirdness endearing and provocative. It doesn’t matter that she is a little on the disaster-prone side. James wants to be there to help clean up the messes. They are sweet. I love the way James handles Alice’s parents. It rocked. And Otis is super adorable. Madeline probably has a savings account that rivals Bill Gates!! Totally worth the read and attachment to the characters.

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Reckless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 4) by KG Fletcher – Review by M Policicchio

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Reckless Love: A Small Town Slow-Burn Forbidden Love Romance (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book #4)Reckless Love: A Small Town Slow-Burn Forbidden Love Romance by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This author shows us a different side to the bubbly, caretaking sister Becky Bennett in this one. It is great to see Becky living for herself and finding what she has been missing in her life, love.

Becky has been the caretaker of her dad and 4 brothers since her mother died. She has a successful YouTube channel, she is in talks for a cookbook, she is an event planner on the family farm. Becky has accomplished many of her dreams at a young age. What she is missing is love and companionship. It is hard for her to believe but in the midst of all those people, she is lonely.

Glen Kirby has been through so much and has been the cause of so much pain for the Bennett family. Now, Glen is 8 months sober, working with Walt to create an apple wine blend, regaining his family farm, and rebuilding a truck in his spare time. One day out of the blue, Becky Bennett brings him a homemade apple pie and his life is changing. Becky agrees to be friendly which turns into legitimate friends.

As the friendship deepens, both Becky and Glen realize it could be so much more. The biggest obstacle is her family. They all say they have forgiven Glen. But is that the truth? Do they trust him? Can they see past the man Glen was to see who he is now? When true feelings come out, Becky and Glen are tested.

The author handled Glen’s internal struggle with his addiction with class, humanity, and realism. I want James’ book. I need James’ book. I don’t want James’ book. That means this beautiful series will end. Each book has been heartfelt, had amazing character, and beautifully written. Worth every minute you spend reading and re-reading this series.

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Cruel Truths (Tessa and Jordan Book 3) by T. Christensen – Review by M Policicchio

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Cruel Truths (Tessa and Jordan #3)Cruel Truths by T. Christensen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This author is amazing. There are times that you can feel the emotions dripping off the page and soaking into your skin. Like when Cade said what he said when Lindy gave him the birthday present. That was like Wow-wow-wowwy-wow!

Lindy Garcia moved away from everyone and everything she knew to pursue her dreams in the fashion industry. She is finally getting a small shot when she decides to interview for a personal assistant position with Cade Kingsley, CEO of Kingsley Marketing. This will give Lindy the business and marketing experience she needs to open her own line some day.

Cade Kingsley is a determined man set in his ways. Something about Lindy drives him wild. He isn’t sure if it is the way she doesn’t back down to him, the way she puts him in his place, or her killer curves. The only problem is that Cade doesn’t know if Lindy likes him for him or his connections, especially once Lindy figures out who his mother is.

As Lindy and Cade grow closer, Cade gets hung up on the ghosts of his past. These ghosts threaten not only his future with Lindy but her future in the fashion world. Will Cade overcome his past?

The characters in the book are real. The emotions are genuine and palpable. This is my first book in the series and I am now hooked. I will be finding the others in this series. I want to know more. I want there to be more. I need more.

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Killer Smile by Allan Evans – Review by M Policicchio

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Killer SmileKiller Smile by Allan Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Amazing thrillride that keeps you guessing. There are soooooo many serial killers in this book. The whole idea of a dark website where the killers go to brag and talk to each other is fascinating.

After killing a local serial killer, Detective Cade Dawkins received a tip that on a dark website there had been a challenge issued. The challenge was to try to stump the detective. With this, two serial killers rolled into town and started hunting and leaving bodies to be found.

Cade is put in charge of a taskforce to capture these killers. He selects a ragtag bunch of folks to help him. In the end, each person’s unique quirks made them right for the taskforce and added in figuring out who the killers were.

So many twists and turns with non-stop action. Excellent read! Original and fresh.

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What We Never Say (Bold Journeys Book 2) by Paulette Stout – Review by M Policicchio

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What We Never Say: Empowering Contemporary Women's Fiction (Bold Journeys Book 2)What We Never Say: Empowering Contemporary Women’s Fiction by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This work of contemporary women’s fiction handles this not often spoken of issue with tact and care. Men that have suffered sexual harassment or abuse often get forgotten. This tale of a proud survivor reclaiming his life and being a beacon of hope for others was beautifully written.

Kyle has hidden his past from the love of his life Rebecca. She has opened up about her struggles with intimacy and it has only made their relationship stronger. When she wants him to open up about his past, he is afraid his secrets will chase her away. When Kyle discloses what happened to him as a 19-year old, Rebecca doesn’t run. She supports Kyle.

Rebecca’s life is taking an interesting turn. Her blog that discusses her very personal journey to overcome her intimacy issues is becoming successful. It has even caught the eye of the icon of fashion and women’s magazines, Jane Stuart and MOD Magazine. Neither immediately understands their connection through Kyle. As the connection is revealed, Jane tries to save herself by painting Rebecca as the villain.

Kyle and Rebecca face all the problems together. Together is where they realize they should be. The author paints a wonderful portrait of families and partners supporting survivors of sexual abuse.

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Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat Series Book 4) by Becky Flade – Review by M Policicchio

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Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat series, #4)Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This author adds another thrilling addition to the series. These sweet romances are deceptive thrillers with killer instincts.

Hannah Patel is a Public Defender. She isn’t doing it for the clout or the politics, definitely not for the money, Hannah is a PD because she feels that everyone deserves a good defense. It has been a rough patch for Hannah. Her family is still grieving the loss of her brother about a year ago, she was punched in open court when a decision didn’t go the way her client thought it should, she had a panic attack in front of a well respected judge, and her stalker left an even more threatening note on her car this morning.

Doyle Murphy, Special Victims Unit Detective, is on sabbatical, trying to decide what he wants to do with his life. After a phone call from a friend, Doyle talks to Hannah about the notes that the stalker has been leaving her. Doyle starts to feel alive again. It has been awhile since he has done police work and his need to protect Hannah is igniting that spark that got doused long ago.

As the stalker starts to escalate, Doyle is slowly unraveling this mystery. But is it soon enough? People in Hannah’s world are getting hurt. All clues are pointing back to her stalker. Is he responsible? It all comes to a fevered pitch when the police arrest someone. But is it the right someone?

The action doesn’t stop. The twists lead to the turns which lead to more twists. This endearing cast of characters seem to be weaving together for something more. Only time will tell! Wonderful series!

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Wild For Me (The Balefire Series Book 3) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by M Policicchio

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Wild For Me (Balefire, #3)Wild For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I so need someone to either punch Garrett or fire him because he needs to go. I knew he was going to be trouble from the beginning. I don’t like him. But I am totally about these boys growing up into the men the women need them to be.

Two years ago, Annabelle challenged herself to have a one night stand with Dakota, the uber-hot lead guitarist from the most popular band on the planet. Not only did she succeed but she never forgot how he made her feel, the tingles his touch left on her skin or the way he made her feel wanted. Annabelle has to see him one more time at her best friend’s wedding since he is best friends with the groom.

Even though Dakota could have a different woman every day, there is one woman that keeps occupying space in his brain. He will get the chance to see her again at The Monk’s wedding. Dakota wants to, needs to reconnect with her. Annabelle is everything he remembers plus so much more.

Annabelle gets a phone call to intern with the band. She can learn marketing and band management on the way to her MBA. Now, she only has to manage to stay away from Dakota until the band goes back out on tour. Except, Dakota’s main goal is to be wherever Annabelle is.

Garrett does what he does best and starts planting seeds of doubt and derision between Dakota and Annabelle. When the seeds take root and blossom, Dakota reverts back to his old ways. When Dakota realizes his error, he must find a way to win Annabelle back.

This series has been wonderful. Each story is full of heart and feeling. The characters have a realness to them. Except Garrett. I do hope that he gets what is coming to him. If you aren’t already a Balefire fan, this one will have you getting temporary flame tattoos and figuring out which undergarments you are flinging at the band!!

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite #6)Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dearest Author, Why do you hate me? You know the next book doesn’t come out for months and months, and (even if it is only next week, it will seem like) months? That ending truly was cruel love.

We pick up where Cruel Hate ended. Phoenix, Shane and Aspen are dealing with the aftermath of the car accident. Their world has been turned upside down in more ways than one. People Phoenix and Shane have known all their life are not who they seem to be. Phoenix struggles to find himself.

While Phoenix is on the mend, Aspen finds her community. The family that includes Cole, Damon, Riley and Skylar rallies around Aspen to support her and assist with her dream of her own business. No matter what happens with Phoenix, Aspen knows that she will always have family for her little one.

Ugh! This is so hard. There is soooo much to love about this book but I don’t want to give away its secrets. I don’t want to be that reviewer that tells way too much. Not to mention the way this one ends. This is one of my favorite series of all time. The found family bond and strong female characters rival the Elite Mafia series by another author who is constantly on my TBR List. Super! Wonderful! Fantastic! I could throw in a few more but I will wait for the next one to add to that list.

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Vixen: (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter) by D.M. Earl – Review by M Policicchio

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Vixen: (Devil's Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter)Vixen: by D.M. Earl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The author sucks you in again with an amazing story of survival and surpassing. Vixen, through the Devil’s Handmaidens, has not only survived the ordeal that was forced upon her, she has managed to build a life beyond. She still has ghosts and baggage, but who doesn’t?

Vixen receives a call from her past. This call, this person can bring everything good and wonderful in Vixen’s new life to a grinding halt. As more secrets and shadows of the past surface, Vixen finds herself swallowed by all the emotions. All she wants is to get lost in the high she knows she could find in a needle but Vixen also knows that is not the way to solve anything. Lucas “Ironside” was part of her past but now, he is there as a part of the present. Could he be part of her future?

Lucas “Ironside” risked his life for Vixen then. He is risking everything for her now. He Thought he was doing what was best for Vixen when he just disappeared because he could not bring her further into his world of undercover work. The choices he made, the things he did for Vixen then was to give her a future. Lucas can finally tell her, but will she forgive him?

As Vixen and Lucas fight the past, it leads the Devil’s Handmaidens into dangerous territory. Their mission was to rescue three young women. What they find is so much more. The Handmaidens, along with their support system, do what they always do and fight the evils man has wrought on this world, making survivors out of human trafficking victims.

This author does it again. There is nothing like the cast of characters that she has put together in this series. From Tink to Shadow to Vixen to Avalanche, everyone is special and will melt your heart. Loving this new gentler Shadow.

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Mr. Wimp (The Human Mating Site Book 1) by B.L. Wilde – Review by M Policicchio

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Mr Wimp (The Human Mating Site #1)Mr Wimp by B.L. Wilde
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series opener is wonderful, funny, heartbreaking, and imaginative. The series starts with Bella’s husband ending their 7 year marriage, 12 year relationship without much explanation. Through her friends, who are hilarious and endearing, Bella discovers the worst news possible. Instead of just growing apart like she had originally thought, there is someone new.

Despite this heartbreak, Bella reclaims her life. She starts to realize that she lost parts of herself to her husband. Bella is rediscovering what it means to be her. And loving the new old her.

After months of shedding the old her and shaking off the heartbreak, Bella has decided to quote Stella “get her groove back”. Now we get to meet the men that might put the ooooh in her groove. 😉

Can’t wait for the next one. I am here for the series.

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Lies – Truth – Love by Marina Hanna

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Lies - Truth - LoveLies – Truth – Love by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Unlucky in love Olivia needs a date for a family wedding. Her and her best friend, Lucy, concoct a plan. Olivia gives Lucy a list of traits that her date must have and Lucy sets Olivia up on a series of blind dates to find the right guy to take to the wedding. While on one of the blind dates, Olivia meets Ethan. Ethan is not her date but a frequent visitor to the tea shop where the blind dates happen.

Ethan saves Olivia from a particularly bad date. After that, Ethan and Olivia start talking and become friends. Friends lead to lovers. A series of misunderstandings, stubborn refusals, and prideful dismissals lead to a break up. After a couple of grand gestures that flop, things are looking brighter until someone steps into traffic. Will Ethan and Olivia ever find their way back to each other?

This darling tale of wires crossing is a delightful read. Lots of humor and wonderful characters to go around. Take the time to enjoy this one!

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When We Fell Again by Julie Archer – Review by M Policicchio

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When We Fell Again: An angsty, second chance rockstar romanceWhen We Fell Again: An angsty, second chance rockstar romance by Julie Archer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a romantic tale of 2nd chances. Alexis and Jordan were made for each other. They weren’t ready the first time around.

Alexis “Lex” is a tour manager for a promotion company. And, she is really good at her job. Jordan is the frontman for the rock band Idol Rev. The band was gaining in popularity after a successful tour about a year ago when tragedy struck. Jordan stepped away from the band for about a year.

Idol Rev is gearing up for their comeback tour when their tour manager has to bow out due to family reasons. The promotion company’s owner, Lex’s boss, asks Lex to take over Idol Rev’s tour not knowing that Lex and Jordan have a history.

Five years after they broke up, Lex and Jordan are spending nearly 24/7 together, listening to their old relationship being sung out with each song. Old feelings reignite. Have they changed enough, grown up enough for this to have a fighting chance?

My heart cringes with some of Jordan’s choices. I just want to shake him with that one. When you read this book, you’ll know which one I am talking about. Wonderful story! Endearing characters. Worth the read!!

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Love & Stilettos by Evelyn Lindell – Review by M Policicchio

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Love & StilettosLove & Stilettos by Evelyn Lindell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After the worst year of Mia’s life, she finds herself in the bedroom of summer vacations at her grandma’s. All the memories of those summers, the time she got to forget all nonsense from her parents, was supposed to be a comfort not a chokehold. Mia is making some positive changes like going back to college. But try as she might, there is one person she can’t avoid forever.

Mitch has made a name for himself as a firefighter, he has a fiance, and he might have finally moved on from the one girl he can’t forget, until she comes waltzing back into his life. Mia. His childhood best friend. When they run into each other at church, Mia gets a glimpse of Mitch and his new life. She is prepared to leave him alone. When she needs help on an assignment for school, Mia turns to Mitch.

Mia and Mitch try to rekindle their friendship, keeping it strictly in the friendzone. Feelings long buried come to a head when Mia realizes that she is being duped. The mentor that has been encouraging her all year is oddly connected to Mitch. When Mia confronts Mitch, the mystery unfolds as well as secrets come to light. All is not pretty in the daylight. The truth that comes out threatens to destroy what Mitch hopes to build with Mia.

This one is a very sweet tale. Lots of energy. Moves quickly. No steam. Not quite what I was expecting but good enough to read until the end. I have to say, I wasn’t expecting some of the twists. I had the wrong person pegged for a long time. Then some of Lacey’s moves were unexpected. Overall, a good story worth the read.

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This Time Around Audiobook by Jane Suen – Review by M Policicchio

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Sweet, endearing tale of second chances.  Katie and Chase were in love since they could remember.  But Katie always wanted more than their small town could offer.  She worked hard and earned scholarships to college and her ticket out.  The only problem was Chase.  He didn’t need to escape the small town where they grew up.  

 

Now it is 10 years later.  Chase is a successful banker, raising his nephew after a tragic car accident took both of Chase’s brother and his wife.  Katie used to like her job until her boss got pushed out by a bully.  Now Katie is miserable but can’t seem to find a way out.  Katie gets an invitation to an old friend’s wedding and, although she doesn’t know why, she decides to go home and to the wedding.  Because Katie doesn’t have a date, the bride assigns her a plus one.  It just so happens to be Katie’s ex-boyfriend, Chase.  

 

Trying not to give away too much.  Chase and Katie spend time at the wedding and rediscover their spark.  But are either willing to change their life to rekindle what could have been?  Spend a little time in a small town figuring out what is really important.  Good listening! 

A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by M Policicchio

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A Forever Kind of ThingA Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really need to stop reading books that seem cool just from the blurb because they get me in the feels every time. EVERY Time. This one had me from the bullied 5th grader meeting her first friend on the first day of school until the reunion senior year of high school through the art project. No getting away from the feeling that these two, Mina and Wesley, were always meant to be.

Mina and her mom lived in a trailer park outside of town. This was the cause of her ridicule. Mina was teased and taunted because she was the poorest in a poor town. When she met him in the 5th grade, he became her best (and only) friend, her crush, her everything. He remained as such through middle school until the day he disappeared, leaving Mina alone. During her grief of losing her only friend, Mina’s life changed as her mom married a rich doctor, moving them out of the trailer to the mansion in the rich part of time.

Wesley started the 5th grade in yet another new school. That is what happens when you are a foster kid and your dad can’t manage to stay out of jail long enough to keep you for very long. When he saw her across the room, he knew that they would be friends. Wes didn’t realize that she would become his world, then and forever.

It is senior year and Wes is back in the boys’ home where he lived when he met Mina. Could he find her? When Wes started at some elite prep school, he was shocked to find his Mina there. But she wasn’t the same girl and she had a boyfriend. That is one thing that was going to have to change. As they faced the trials of the social stratus in high school, especially an elite one, both Mina and Wes rediscovered each other and themselves.

This was a beautiful story about forever love, finding that person that completes you, understands you better than maybe even yourself. From the first words through the last, this book keeps you deep in their world. I don’t wanna go back to high school, but I totally wanna be in their world. The world of complete love and understanding. I hope I can find that kind of connection.

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A Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld – Review by M Policicchio

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A Rainbow Like YouA Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This fabulous story is the worst thing I have read in a while. This beautifully written story made me so much more emotional than I expected and I am angry at the author for it. There was the touching scene between Hastings and Adrian in the hospital. Then the hilarious interview that put Jillian in her place. Then that twist, that twist of the knife to my heart, was not necessary.

Let me set the stage…Adrian is finally back on tour with his band, the hottest rock band on the planet Sign of a Scandal, after taking a year off. The hiatus was sudden and not necessarily wanted by the rest of the band. There is some tension between bandmates. Not to mention that there is a whole heap of pressure on Adrian to continue to spit out hit songs for the band to complete the one album left on their current record deal. The only problem is that Adrian has hit a massive case of writer’s block.

Adrian travels in his own bus for several reasons but mostly because of his OCD and germophobia. After being on the road for a week, Adrian realizes that he has a stowaway on his bus. Hastings. Hastings is a 13-year-old that has managed to tuck herself into the small spaces on the bus to stay hidden until this slip up. There are several tense moments, anger, things said, and finally some truths revealed. Adrian agrees to allow Hastings to ride with him to New Orleans, where she plans to leave.

Along the journey, Adrian and Hastings develop a comfortable friendship. Hastings manages to convince him to go after a new love. The situation comes to a boil when Hastings collapses outside of Adrian’s bus and is discovered. The health issues that Hastings had not disclosed to Adrian reared their ugly head. Everyone misconstrues the nature of Adrian and Hastings’ relationship. As Adrian’s world continues to crumble, he must make some big decisions.

I won’t give it away. But I will say that the way the author handled the reveal of his decision was classy and perfect. I am still angry about getting left in my feelings but I will put that aside to say, this was one helluva fantastic book.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

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Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance (Hidden Valley Elite #5)Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

These two. They just can’t seem to find a way to communicate without exploding. The only time they seem to manage a decent conversation is the night Phoenix gets drunk, the only problem is he doesn’t remember what he said the next day. Everything these two try to do together that ends up in disaster really shows that they are the product of their parents’ failed relationships, each trying not to get hurt.

As Phoenix and Aspen navigate college and life on their own, they constantly run into hurdles and brickwalls. Aspen has to find a way to tell her parents that she is pregnant. Phoenix discovers that college is more than he expected, especially when at odds with Shane. Shane has always been there to help cover up his reading difficulties. Now with Shane and Phoenix orbiting in separate spheres, Phoenix finds himself struggling to keep his head above water.

Is this when I get to talk about what a despicable weasel Grandad is? Cuz I am so down to have that conversation. I have a nagging feeling in the back of my brain that says he only gets worse and causes more harm later. I do completely heart hands the way the rest of the tribe has adopted Aspen and supports her. Let’s not forget our new friend Max!! Okay so he was a jerk that one time, but he apologized and is nothing but loving and caring and a great big teddy bear!!

OMG! That last chapter. So much….too much!!! I can’t stop devouring these books as each is released. This is, by far, one of the most superior series that I have read. The way the author handles and develops each character is so loving. Almost like writing characters based on your kids or your best friends. So abso-freaking-lutely amazing. Counting the days until the next one!

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Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by M Policicchio

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Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire #2)Deadly Vengeance by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Valenzia Vaccaro has always known that there was more to her parents’ and her father’s business than they told her but she never knew just how deadly and dangerous her father really is. By accident, one day she grabbed a box of items that belonged to her mother. Going through the box she discovered her mother’s diary. The diary told a tale of vengeance, sex, death and more than she ever wanted to know. When Valenzia confronted her mom with the truth, her mother confirmed it. Valenzia ran.

Luca Catalano didn’t discover who he was until shortly after his 21st birthday when his mother died and he discovered her journals. All the truths that he sought as a child yearning to know about his father were there in those journals, all the secrets that caused his mother to cry at night were laid out in her own handwriting. Luca decided to take his rightful place in his family and their world only to discover that he was the sole remaining Catalano. Luca slowly rebuilt the family name.

Luca also had a plan of vengeance for the man that took his father and uncles, Nazario Vaccaro. Luca will quietly seduce Valenzia Vaccaro, getting her to fall in love with him. If the seduction doesn’t work, he isn’t above kidnapping. When Valenzia runs from her family, she heads straight into the lion’s den and winds up in Luca’s bed. It takes time but Valenzia and Luca slowly start to build on their chance encounter and build a tentative friendship.

This book answers my questions from Deadly Intentions. It was a good addition to the series. It drags a bit at times but all the detail and backstory make sense when you figure it out. Good read!

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Sing For Me (The Balefire Series Book 2) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by M Policicchio

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Sing For Me (Balefire, #2)Sing For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Playboy rockstar Blu Connolly is heading home to visit his mother while his band is on hiatus from touring. He just needs a little time with his mom, some of her great cooking, and some time to be anonymous in his hometown. Blu’s plans are quickly thwarted by his mom’s new neighbor.

Ashleigh Baker has finally found a place that she can call home and put down some roots. After growing up with a military father, constantly on the move, she has found a spot where the landlord encourages her hobby of planting flowers. When Ashleigh figured out who she was living next to she never thought she would actually get to meet the lead singer for one of her all-time favorite bands. Ashleigh spends her time as a substitute teacher and freelance music reviewer.

The moment Blu arrives in the neighborhood, he loudly announces his presence by revving his motorcycle loudly late one night. Ashleigh, not caring that he is famous, comes out and tears him a new one for being rude. Blu is entranced by this angry beauty. He starts finding reasons to be around her. No matter how charming he tries to be, Ashleigh isn’t falling for it because of his reputation and she knows that eventually he will be leaving. No reason to get attached. But things don’t always go as planned.

Through women blatantly throwing themselves at Blu, he stays true to Ashleigh. She slowly starts to trust and believe that Blu can be the man she needs. When the band’s manager purposely plots to break up Blu and Ashleigh, things get explosive only the way they can in the world of rock ‘n’ roll!

There is so much good in this one. It keeps you reading. You have hope for Blu, that he really is a changed man. When you learn the reason that his mother doesn’t want to move, it gets you all misty. Excellent story. Great read!!

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Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by M Policicchio

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Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4)Love Shots by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A sweet romance about a 2nd chance at 1st love and true love. Summer and Teddy had been in love with each other since they were 10 years old. Things and people stood in their way until now. Now the only thing standing in their way was each other.

Summer was escaping a stalker ex while trying to refind her place in the world. Teddy was recently out of the military, needing time to recover after a really bad tour. Each returning to the only place they felt safe enough to start to heal, Mickey’s. Mickey’s was Summer’s grandfather’s bar until he recently sold out to Teddy, unknowingly stealing Summer’s dream. Now they are back in town, together, for the first time in about a decade.

Sparks fly. Feelings come out. Memories are relived. Flames are rekindled. Magic and romance happen. Exs appear.

If you are in the mood for cinnamon roll alphas and sweet romance, this is your jam!!

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Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by M Policicchio

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Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4)Love Shots by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A sweet romance about a 2nd chance at 1st love and true love. Summer and Teddy had been in love with each other since they were 10 years old. Things and people stood in their way until now. Now the only thing standing in their way was each other.

Summer was escaping a stalker ex while trying to refind her place in the world. Teddy was recently out of the military, needing time to recover after a really bad tour. Each returning to the only place they felt safe enough to start to heal, Mickey’s. Mickey’s was Summer’s grandfather’s bar until he recently sold out to Teddy, unknowingly stealing Summer’s dream. Now they are back in town, together, for the first time in about a decade.

Sparks fly. Feelings come out. Memories are relived. Flames are rekindled. Magic and romance happen. Exs appear.

If you are in the mood for cinnamon roll alphas and sweet romance, this is your jam!!

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