Posts

The Exchange by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Marissa Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

The Exchange: A NovelThe Exchange: A Novel by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book starts off by hooking you immediately with a tale of kidnapping and a missing child. Remembering that will help you get through some of the slower middle parts. I get where the story needed to go and why it went there, I just needed it to go faster.

Samantha “Sam” Crawford grew up in a small nothing and nowhere town with an addict mom and thinking she killed her father as a small child. Since she was 6 years old, Sam knew she wanted out of there and made the plans to do it, moving to LA to be an actress. When Sam gets there, it is not all sparkles and bright lights. It is crappy apartments, gang violence in the streets, low paying jobs, and a whole lot of no’s. When she meets Corey, a beautiful pilot that treats her well and has connections in the industry, she knows things are going to get better.

Soon, Sam finds out that Corey lied. He has no connections. He is not who he says he is and he wants a strange deal. Sam agrees to the deal and the exchange. She changes her mind and manages to escape Corey. When Sam’s past catches up to her, she has to make some tough decisions to be free from her long ago choices forever.

There are enough twists and turns to keep one engaged. Although I found the pace a little slow, overall a great read.

View all my reviews

Three Made In Heaven (Made In Heaven #1) by Elena Kincaid – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Three Made in Heaven (Made in Heaven, #1)Three Made in Heaven by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

* Happy Squeak!!! * I completely and thoroughly enjoyed this book. This is where I insert a giddy clapping meme. There are so many great things to love about this book. I absolutely adore how the three met and became friends, continuing that friendship for years. The wholesome connection where Cole and Charlie were big brothers to Maddie when she needed that. The tender friendship that was always there. The something more it all became.

Maddie, even at a young age, knew something was missing from her life. One night she dreamed of two boys, Cole and Charlie. Through the years, they continued to meet in their dreams, aging and growing up together, being the best of friends. Maddie didn’t understand why them or their friendship couldn’t be real. When Maddie voices her doubt about them, Cole jumps into action, bringing the three friends together. When Charlie and Maddie discover how real they are, they are free to explore the love that has developed over time. As a throuple, they face a looming darkness that threatens to tear Maddie away from them.

The joint steamy scenes were some of the classiest I have read. Beautiful, careful, sensually written, they evoke all the right feelings. I also love how the friends and family of the throuple handled adjusting to their announcement. Classy!!! Looking forward to book two!!

View all my reviews

Chatroom With A View by Glenn Maynard – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Chatroom With A ViewChatroom With A View by Glenn Maynard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

OMFG!! This book. Wow. It starts off a little dark then gets twisted and then adds a little crazy into the mix. I am not sure who my favorite character is. Becky/Veronica for her stalker-tendencies. Troy for just trying to survive the crap hand he was dealt and not understand card references. Pops for playing Troy for a week but helping him in the end. Stitch for just being Stitch.

After an abusive childhood that turned into an abusive adulthood, Troy accidently watches his father murder his mother. When Troy tries to save his mom, he gets a shovel upside the head for his trouble. After getting the shovel away from his father, Troy beats his father nearly to death but can’t quite swing that final blow. Troy is in panic mode and doesn’t know what to do. Sprinkle in a woman that he dated for two weeks now claiming she is pregnant with his child, Troy is having a breakdown. Troy also overhears two women that used to torment him from elementary to high school talking about catfishing men in chatrooms. Troy decides that he is going to get the women back by doing the same thing to them. This is where things really go wrong.

Despite Troy wanting to hurt the women that now work for him, he keeps having bouts of consciousness. When his plans to trick them kinda take a way wrong turn, Becky/Veronica shows up and brings her merry bag of unmedicated mental health issues with her. Troy thinks that Becky/Veronica is going to turn him in for all the bad stuff going on at his house, but she jumps right in and starts playing house like what is going on is normal. When Troy finds out that Becky/Veronica is actually Becky impersonating her sister Veronica and not pregnant with his child, Becky doesn’t take it well. Madness and mayhem ensue. Then things get crazy. Wow. The ending was not what I was expecting.

If you want something different, something out of the ordinary, This is your book. What a wild ride!!!

View all my reviews

Grace Under Fire (The Anderson Sisters Book 2) by Jennifer Raines – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Grace Under Fire (The Anderson Sisters Book 2)Grace Under Fire by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Grace Anderson has spent her entire life knowing that she was going to eventually run the family farm. Grace has started to slowly make it her own by adding handmade cheeses. As her future is drawing closer, things begin to change. First was her sister’s death. Next was the custody battle for her niece. Now is her mother’s health. And for the cherry on the top, her next door neighbor that ran after the death of her best friend, his brother, 8 years ago came home. Grace manages to successfully avoid him at all the local functions, except for a hello. As the changes mount, Grace is finding that she needs him more than ever, but she doesn’t want to.

Ryan Wilson couldn’t stay in that small town that killed his brother. He had to escape. Now, he is back. Unfortunately the one person that he didn’t mean to leave behind won’t talk to him so he can explain. Grace Anderson was just a teen when he left but now she is all woman. A fiercely independent woman that lets him know it. Ryan has given up on love and relationships but is finding that Grace is drawing out all kinds of feelings from him, not just the memories of his brother. When someone starts trying to ruin Grace’s plan to buy her family farm by harming the land and putting Grace in danger, Ryan feels the pull towards his farm and a need to protect Grace. Can he do both without losing Grace?

The author takes you on another emotional ride with this family. Grace’s deeply ingrained independent streak is partially from her father and partially from surviving the schemes of those that seem to be out to get her family. This independent streak causes problems for Grace as she tries to pursue a relationship with Ryan and find a way to make her dreams come true. If Grace could only learn to think before she pops off like a firecracker, she might not have to repair the damage her mouth leaves. This was an excellent duet. I brought my Aussie to American dictionary back out a couple of times but it was worth it. I am sad that there are no more sisters.

View all my reviews

Taylor’s Law (The Anderson Sisters Book 1) by Jennifer Raines – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Taylor's LawTaylor’s Law by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Eleanor “Elle” Anderson is the oldest sister. That position has always come with great responsibility but more so for Elle. Being the eldest on a family farm seemed like so much more, especially after her mom’s accident left her mom not as able as before. Elle was always the responsible one so it was no surprise when she gave up her life to care for her sister, Chrissy, when she was diagnosed with cancer while she was pregnant. Tessa was a gift from Chrissy so that Ella would have a piece of Chrissy forever. Until Ella checked her mail after returning home from the funeral to discover a summons stating that the mystery father was coming forward.

Jake Taylor was thrown off his game when a beautiful woman entered his office with a small child in tow. Instantly this woman brought out a protectiveness in Jake that he could not understand. When the child announced that the woman he had been expecting had ‘gone to heaven’, Jake’s plan was thrown out the window. Now he not only had to deal with his manipulative, back-stabbing, jerk of a cousin, Jake had to navigate the ghosts of the past to protect his family and build a future for the little girl.

As the situation heats up between Jake and Elle, the situation between Jake and his cousin becomes much more strained. Everyone is on edge. Jake has a plan but he didn’t share it with anyone. It could cost him everything.

I truly enjoyed this story. It was a tad challenging as I didn’t know some of the Aussie slang but I used context clues and when that didn’t work, google did. This was such a sweet story. I enjoyed the relationship Jake built with Tessa. I love that Elle was so no nonsense. I loved Elle and Jake’s banter. Worth the read! Great start to the series and fantastic story on its own.

View all my reviews

StoryTeller’s Tale (Wretched Soulz MC) by Manda Mellett – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

StoryTeller's Tale: Wretched Soulz MCStoryTeller’s Tale: Wretched Soulz MC by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don’t know how this author continuously writes these characters! I am in love with a new MC. I didn’t want or need another MC in my life but the Wretched Soulz have burrowed their way into my heart. One of these days I might just have to get a bike and find out what that freedom is really like.

StoryTeller has been a nomad since getting patched into the Soulz due to a heart-crushing incident with a brother and StoryTeller’s fiance. It has been a long 5 years. Now, StoryTeller is being called home by his Prez to help with a special detail. Along the way, StoryTeller picks up a book he found. He discovers that the book had a personal message from the author in the front. StoryTeller then discovers that the woman the book is autographed for is missing. He doesn’t know why but StoryTeller feels a strange pull and attachment to this woman. It has to be more than a shared taste in books.

Sheri receded into her isolated life since her father reappeared after her mother’s death with a new step-family that weren’t big fans of Sheri’s. Sheri finds happiness in motorcycle, mafia, and mayhem romance novels, wishing she could be in one. The one time Sheri decides to add a little excitement to her life by heading to an author’s convention two hours away from home, she is kidnapped by an MC. Sheri decides that fiction is better than reality. Sheri is slowly resigning herself to the expected fate when a stranger claiming her as his Old Lady shows up.

So much happens. Sheri and StoryTeller are separated. Then come back together but will the memories of the way they met be haunting enough to keep apart? Will new challenges keep them separated? All I know is that you have jump into this fast-paced beauty to find out. This was one helluva way to kickstart the Wretched Soulz. There is so much to like about this story. The characters, the excitement, the strong female characters, and the brotherhood are just a few of the reasons to love this story. This series appears to contain a tad more graphic violence but it is not detracting from the story, nor offputting. I wouldn’t mind a touch more steam but can totally see where it didn’t fit this story. This author is ah-effing-maze-zing. Get lost on the back of a bike with your arms around a biker!!

View all my reviews

Vaughn’s Xena (Dirty Rockhard Billionaire Book 1) by M.I. Rosegold – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Vaughn's Xena (Dirty Rockhard Series, #1)Vaughn’s Xena by M.I. Rosegold
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I am not sure where to start. I was hoping for a raunchy read even though I am not into all the kinks that are displayed throughout the book. This is my first experience with this author, as well. So I thought, why not. I like a good forbidden romance with a little kink.

I can tell you that it wasn’t the kink or kinks (including erotic humiliation, degradation, edging, light bondage, pubic play, and raw sex) that bothered me. I am not into all the kinks and some got to be a bit much but they did not take away from the story. What took away from the story was the strange dialogue, the excess details and explanation, the overall length of the story, and the almost ending. Let me explain, I will try to keep it brief. There was a lot of dialogue, which normally I love! Some of it was stilted and weird, like not fitting the scene or the character. Some of the dialogue even detracted from the established characters. And, then waiting until like page 400 to let the sister/best friend find out??

Xena is Veronica’s (aka Ron and Ronnie) best friend. For years, Xena has been secretly in love with Ron’s brother, Vaughn. Twist! Vaughn has been secretly lusting after Xena for years as well. Vaughn has finally decided that he has waited long enough and wants to be with Xena. The one thing holding Xena back is Ron’s reaction. Ron and Vaughn didn’t have great parents and only have each other. Xena didn’t want to come between the siblings. Vaughn convinces Xena to pursue a relationship with him but agrees to keep it quiet at Xena’s insistence. Enter a secret bad guy. Ron finds out. She does not take it well. Threats are issues, choices made.

Maybe I missed it but can anyone tell me why Ron calls Xena Jay? I will probably read the second one just to know how it ends. If the bad guy gets what is coming to them. If Vaughn finds out the truth. If Zippy gets Finn. So many questions. Not great but not the worst I have read.

View all my reviews

Absolution by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

AbsolutionAbsolution by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book went in a different direction than a typical story by the author with whom I am most familiar. Sure, there were the usual themes of revenge, drama, organized crime, fighting for justice of women that were used for the sport of their men, and steamy scenes. But the special gifts were an interesting twist. Not bad, just interesting.

Whitney started hearing voices about a year ago. As she grows ever closer to 30, her grandmother says that her gifts will improve. The grandmother is willing to train her to use her gifts. RIght now, she has a pretty insistent voice telling her that Whitney has to help her, Juliana, bring closure to Juliana’s ex-boyfriend. When Whitney agrees to help Juliana, Whitney discovers one small problem.

Dominic has never had an easy life. After his neglectful mother finally left him on his own at 16, he managed to survive. Dominic met a woman that he loved when he was 20. Juliana was everything to him but her wealthy father didn’t approve of Dominic. When Juliana disappeared, her father did everything to blame Dominic, even having jailed and tried for her murder, although a body was never found. Now Dominic isn’t a kid anymore and has more money and power than Juliana’s father ever did. Dominic has long planned to ruin Juliana’s father.

Enter Whitney. One look, one word and Dominic is thrown off his game. How could Juliana be there, in the lobby of his office building? Except, she is claiming not to Juliana, that her name is Whitney. Cue mayhem, revenge, ghosts and bad men popping out of everywhere. Whitney helps Juliana with the closure that she needed, but will it help Dominic?

I am in whenever Anise is writing. So far she has not led me astray. I am there. It is good. This was no exception. Taylor is growing on me. Don’t stop!! I am there for the next outstanding collaboration!!

View all my reviews

Saving the Bellydancer (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 3) by Debra Parmley – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Saving the Bellydancer (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 3)Saving the Bellydancer by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Good, solid story. In this addition to the series, the author makes the Seal, Cutter, realize that finding someone that of value isn’t just about the other person. It is also about finding value in and valuing yourself.

Cutter knows that he is not ready to settle down, especially with the women he dates. Since the one broke his heart, casual is all Cutter wants. After several of his SEAL teammates find and marry women who understand that loving a SEAL isn’t easy and are willing to work at it, Cutter finds himself wondering if there could be someone out there for him.

Zarifah, her belly dancing name, realizes that her fiance is not who she thinks he is. Her now ex-fiance isn’t willing to let Zarifah go. Zarifah realizes that she never really knew him other than the face he presented and that he never wanted to know her more than the dancer persona, which is only part of who she is. As Zarifah makes positive steps away from that relationship, the ex is an ever-present dark cloud threatening her sunny skies.

The author gives Zarifah a guardian angel in Cutter. Cutter teaches Zarifah to use her pepper spray and be aware of her surroundings. Cutter helps Zarifah realize that the right one will see all that she is and enjoy all aspects of who she is. Zarifah teaches Cutter that the right one does exist. This is a cute story that has strong, positive themes built in. Solid performer in the series. Good read!

View all my reviews

Throwing the Curve (Playing for Keeps Book 2) by Lauren Fraser – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Throwing the CurveThrowing the Curve by Lauren Fraser
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Boy! If there were any two people that shouldn’t date, it is Ryan and Peyton. The judgment, the preconceived notions, the hurt and the bitterness that start this relationship are the reasons you wonder even if faking it is a good idea. But soon you realize that all the venom that they spit out is a byproduct of the baggage they carry and the chemistry they feel.

Peyton hasn’t dated in three years, choosing to focus on her career and making her non-profit program a real place in the community. When the good-looking baseball player pursues her, Peyton is flattered and doesn’t take the time to do some basic cyber profiling. She misses the one big, glaring detail that would have made her run for the hills. He is married. Peyton discovers this in a most embarrassing way, at a team party when his wife shows up.

Ryan has been burned before. He wants nothing to do with his cheating teammates but Ryan doesn’t make waves when he gets pulled into Andy’s, jerkface extraordinaire, scheme to keep Andy’s wife from realizing that he brought a date to the party. The only reason that Ryan is willing to accept is that Peyton is beautiful and completely sexy. To everyone’s surprise, Peyton and Ryan have to continue the fake dating charade longer than anyone expects. As the feelings slowly start becoming real for both, the baggage becomes too much for them and threatens to tear them apart.

Andy is a complete and utter sleazeball. There should have been many more consequences for him after what he did. I love the foundation idea Ryan has. It is needed in today’s world. All the small things Peyton does for the kids at her program, the members of her community are amazing. The world needs more of that.
The story is a really good one. It was sad and funny, it was happy and heart wrenching. It has great banter and dialogue. Andy is the worst. But overall a fantastic read!!

View all my reviews

Hit on You by Brooke May – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Hit on YouHit on You by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Can I have a Nikolai? Strong, beautiful, deadly, alpha protector that wants to keep the woman he loves safe from his world of death and mayhem.

Luke, an independent woman with a man’s name, has some issues. Her father was living a double life with two families until he was forced to choose. A mother that willingly changed herself for every man so that she would finally convince one to stay, but they never did. A sister that hated her for leaving her behind. When Lu, as she preferred to be called, found the one guy made all of that disappear, she ran. Until Lu was someplace she wasn’t supposed to be, everything was going just fine.

Nikolai kept secrets. Nikolai kept secrets for a living as part of his Bratva. He kept secrets for a living in his security business. It was just what he did. Until he met Luke. Luke was everything he wanted in a woman. Until she ran. Nikolai let her have her space until she needed him. Now, he was never letting her leave him or their life together again. If he could keep her hot, little feet from disappearing.

As Nikolai and Luke work together and separately to discover if Lu is actually in danger and from whom, they uncover more than either was bargaining for and must be willing to let go of the past to survive the present. Nikolai and Luke are pure heat!! They are great together. They fight. They (lifting eyebrows) make up. They fight. She never wanted his help/protection anyway. He isn’t willing to let her go. So good. Excellent!

View all my reviews

Straight for the Kill (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 3) by Winter Austin – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Straight for the Kill (Benoit and Dayne Mystery, #3)Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow! What a book. I don’t think it is over for Elizabeth and Lila. The whole thing had been going on for too long for it just to be over now. But I guess we will see in the next one.

Elizabeth Benoit, County Sheriff, is haunted by the deaths of her friends. When the anniversary is recognized by another young girl turning up dead in a similar fashion, Elizabeth must confront the ghosts of the past and the evils of the present. The only problem is that she is laid up because of recent emergency surgery and the lead detective has declared that half the sheriff’s department can’t be involved in the investigation due to close ties to the original victims.

Enter Lila Dayne. Recent transplant to the area and the Deputy Detective in charge of the case. As much as she needs to maintain the departmental distance from the current case, the players are too interwoven. Lila has to overcome her own demons to successfully solve this case. As Lila and Elizabeth race against the clock and unseen players to keep loved ones safe, the realization that those loved ones just might be the bad guys sets in. Will they lose everything and everyone as they work to put a stop to the evil haunting the county since they were kids?

Once you figure out all the players, the action and pace keeps you on the edge of your seat and pages turning. Kept secrets and promised threats keep these two finding twists and turns, never knowing who they can trust. Will finding the killer bring everything to a conclusion? We don’t know. So many questions were answered, some many secrets uncovered, but was everything and all the players?? Looking forward to the next installment to find out!! Great read!

View all my reviews

Savage Start (Hidden Valley Elite Prequel) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Savage Start: A High School Bully Romance: Hidden Valley Elite PrequelSavage Start: A High School Bully Romance: Hidden Valley Elite Prequel by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WOW!! Dayumn!!!! How could so much happen in 50ish short pages? We got to meet most of the main characters of the series. There was a brief but intense encounter between Cole and Riley. There was a heart-wrenching scene for Cole and Damon. Well, I meeeaaaaannnnn…..There was so much for Damon. He had to realize the father he idolized was the villain after all. Can’t wait to see how Damon grows and changes. There are sooooo many questions left unanswered. Is the woman at the conference Riley’s mom? What is up with the long lost father that they had to flee and hide out all these years? Where does the mysterious uncle fit in? Can Riley change her ways?

I can’t wait for the next one in the series to be released! They won’t get here fast enough! I have to find the perfect shelf for this series because I have a feeling it is going to singe everything around it!!! So hooked and left waiting and wanting more!!

View all my reviews

The Golden Garza (Red Cage Book 4) by S. Ann Cole – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

The Golden Garza (Red Cage, #4)The Golden Garza by S. Ann Cole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

After discovering that the life she remembers is a lie, Soleil decides to find the truth but it is not as easy as it seems. There are so many hidden players that don’t want her discovering her true origins. Deadly, powerful players that have the resources to prevent it from happening. But Soleil is quite stubborn and determined to find answers, any answers. When Soleil manages to convince Red Cage to help her, it opens an outside chamber to Pandora’s Box of secrets and death.

Tripp Garza has been secretly in love with his sister’s best friend since she was 19, at least he thought it was secretly. Apparently all of his brothers knew and have been betting on how long it would take Tripp to act on/admit his feelings. When Tripp accidently gets a taste of his forbidden fruit, he can’t stay away but doesn’t know how to be with her or how to be without her. Tripp has to battle a few of his own demons before he can slay Soleil’s.

Fan-damn-tastic!! The revelation of secrets and the pace of the book. The characters, the family, the love, the friendships are amazing. I luv that as you get updated on the characters from previous novels, they aren’t all sunshine and roses. Yes, they are still together but they are still facing challenges of everyday life together, like being together and making it work. I really hope the next book is Tillie’s because I have to know if Torin has known about her Mr. X all this time or when he found out. Looking forward to the next one!! Phenomenal series!!

View all my reviews

Fear Inc: Volume 3 by Melinda Valentine – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Fear Inc.: Volume ThreeFear Inc.: Volume Three by Melinda Valentine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was my first Fear experience. I was just reading along in a typical romance story when WHAM!! Curve ball out of left field. All of sudden there was all this action and drama. Completely unexpected but amazing. Sure no one wants that to happen to their loved ones but it was necessary to make Kasper realize his love for Krysta and to make it real for Tank. This short, intense story was fantastic. The characters are real and relatable. The steam is steamy. The family is wonderful. I plan to keep Fear in my life and on my TBR list.

View all my reviews

Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Prequel) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation #0.5)Night Hawke by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow!! Where does one start? You should know that this ends on a big ol’honkin’ cliffhanger! But it is so worth it. The chemistry between “Nolan” and Jack is straight up dripping off every page. They bring the heat and the steam. I can only imagine what it will be like when these two meet in some future boardroom or courtroom and the action between them is just as hot as the “action” between them. Can everyone see my eyebrows going up and down when I say that? Since this is just the beginning, I know that this series is going to be a helluva ride! Can’t wait!! Ah-maze-zing start to this 2nd generation!!

View all my reviews

Handle With Care (Chase Care Book 1) by R.L. Dunn – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Handle With Care (Chase Care Book 1)Handle With Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Holy Cow!! I wasn’t sure about this one but I took a chance and wasn’t disappointed. If you are unsure after the first chapter, keep reading. The first little bit really sets up the nonstop action and intrigue for the rest of the book. One might need a character list to keep track of all the people and nicknames but even if you lose track of who some of the peripheral characters are, focus on the main characters!! The ride is phenomenal. If deceit, love, hate, revenge, sexual tension, unrequited love, action, biological warfare, steam, money, honor, and family don’t do it for you, then don’t worry. We will just keep this secret all to ourselves. When you get to the point where you are saying, “How much more can one person take,” just know there is more. Take a chance. Jump right in!!

View all my reviews

Underboss’s Retaliation (Sicilian Gods Book 2) by Via Mari – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Underboss's Retaliation (Sicilian Gods Book 2)Underboss’s Retaliation by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was fantastic. I loved the ferocity of Emelia. She is not one mafia princess that I would mess with. Best book of the series so far!!!

Emelia knew she was in danger when her father told her and her brother to flee. When she was found Emelia thought it was the end. Little did she know it was just the beginning.

Dominic was a vicious soldier and knew what he needed to do. Dominic thought he was lucky to capture the two youngest DeRosa children. He knew his Don would be pleased, they would have the edge. But things never go to plan. Not only that, a strange protective instinct when it comes to Emelia has blossomed. Dominic will do what he has to do to save his family but will that cost him his new obsession, Emelia?

I loved the action, the banter, the tenderness Dom shows, the cunning Emelia possesses and all of it. Emelia is badass!!! I absolutely despise what happened to Leo. My heart ached for Emelia. I can’t wait for the wedding!! Totally loving this series!!

View all my reviews

Sharing His Nanny (Forever Our Girl Book 2) by Tori Chase – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Sharing His Nanny (Forever Our Girl, #2)Sharing His Nanny by Tori Chase
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stella is on the brink of having everything she has ever wanted. Her plus-sized clothing line has received rave reviews and has a potential backer. Stella has a few problems. One, the backer hasn’t said yes yet. Two, the backer is technically her boyfriend. Three, said boyfriend has forgotten her birthday. Four, there is an outstanding loan to her stepmother that needs to be paid. When Stella goes to confront her boyfriend/backer about her birthday, Stella overhears him not only calling her fat and her clothes ugly, but that he is using her to improve his reputation to the woman with whom he plans to cheat on Stella.

Charles has just found out he is a father by the mom dropping the baby off at his office and taking off for an out of town job for a month. With his typical summer plans of debauchery ruined, Charles reluctantly agrees that Stella can stay with him to be his nanny. Charles has to fight his attraction to Stella because she is in name only his step-sister. He was an adult when his mother married Stella’s father and never lived with her, only seeing her at random holidays. Charles doesn’t know anything about Stella. When Charles’ friends, Jordan and Alex, also develop feelings for Stella everything becomes a confusing mess.

WOW!!! This one had me hooked from the opening paragraph. I absolutely loved the way Stella is proud of her curves and doesn’t cave to anyone’s opinions or beliefs about how she should live her life! The conversation, the wit, the humor, the interaction were all fantastic. The steam was so hot that I think I saw the words dripping off the pages as I read them. I also like the interspersing of characters from the other novels by this author. That was fun! This book was unputdownable. Fantastic, relatable characters with flaws and scars. Drama and tension that made the story more and palpable. Dayum!! This will be one of my favorites all year!!! Flipping phenomenal!!!!

View all my reviews

My Pearl Heart by J.N. Sheats – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

My Pearl HeartMy Pearl Heart by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jasmine thought she had it all, a successful business with her best friend, a boyfriend that could be more, and a decent life. That was until she was kissed by a tall, dark stranger in her best friend’s kitchen. The stranger turned out to be her best friend’s finance. Despite her requests, the stranger now known as James, continues to flirt with Jasmine. James and Jasmine continue to grow closer while Jasmine plans James’ wedding to her best friend. Then Jasmine finds out the truth behind their sudden engagement and wedding. Even worse, Jasmine finds that her best friend has betrayed her in more than one way.
As Jasmine’s life is imploding, the only person that seems to support her is the one person she can’t have, James.

This sweet romance has all the feels. It is a realistic storyline with a best friend that might have been more of a frenemy all along and the boyfriend using Jasmine for her connections. It was a delightful, quick read. Sometimes a short, sweet romance is great between all the longer, darker stuff I read!

View all my reviews

The Husbands by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

The HusbandsThe Husbands by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was not exactly what I expected. I found the premise very interesting. I loved Dorian’s job and how accepting his wife was. It is great to see that kind of support from a partner. I also thought that Augustine thought to seek counseling and asked his wife to go with him was important. This view of family is important and should be represented in popular media. I hope to read more from this author soon.

View all my reviews

Married Blind (King of Screen Book 2) by Morgana Bevan – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Married Blind (Kings of Screen, #2)Married Blind by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I haven’t read the first one in this series, but if it is anything like Married Blind, I am addicted. The characters are real, the banter is funny, and the feels are many. Couldn’t put this one down. It is fabulous!!!!

Abi is up to her eyebrows in debt due to her sister’s medical bills. She is working three jobs to help pay them but she is barely keeping her head above water. Abi’s sister finds an ad for a new reality show and convinces Abi’s best friend to ask Abi to apply. Abi doesn’t think she will make it but she does. She will marry a stranger, stay married for 3 months, and then determine if they will stay together or get divorced. The things we do for family.

Finn got burned bad by the woman he thought he loved. He turned to the Hollywood lifestyle everyone thought he lived anyway. After his latest scandal, his agent thinks Finn’s reputation needs some rehab. The idea is to show a different side of Finn to the world, a dedicated, caring, steady husband side. Finn agrees to do the show but is not happy about it and doesn’t plan to make it easy for the producers.

Once Finn meets Abi and starts to get to know her, he thinks he could be in real trouble with her. Both Finn and Abi’s baggage keep them from revealing their true selves to each other. When Abi makes a choice because she doesn’t feel like she has any other options, Finn reacts badly and thinks Abi is just like all the rest, a user. What will it take to make these two drop their walls and let each other in?

I can’t wait for Book 3 to see how Abi and Finn are doing. This book was fan-dang-tastic.

View all my reviews

Joker’s Fool (Satan’s Devils MC #8) Audiobook by Manda Mellett – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

If I could give this book more stars, I would.  This takes over as my favorite book of the series, so far!!  I don’t know how to express how surprised I was by this one. Delightfully, happily, shockingly surprised but I was so caught up in this story, I didn’t want to turn it off.  I wanted to clap, scream, cheer, cry, and shout at Joker so many times during this one.  When Logan finished his narration, I almost stood and clapped but my coworkers and others in the office would have looked at me strangely so I held it in!  😉 

 

This story walks you through Joker’s time as a Satan’s Devil and his self discovery.   I love the way the previous stories were played out in the background so you had a sense of time in the Satan’s Devils MC-verse.  Joker’s journey of hating himself to loving himself was simply amazing.  Joker’s journey was supported by Lady’s Man, a therapist, friends, and eventually his brothers.  It wasn’t an instant transformation.  It was beautiful and thoughtful.  I was surprised at the intimate scenes.  They were sensual as well as steamy, loving and gentle as well as gritty and hard.  

 

I can’t say too much or I will spill all the beans and this review will be all spoilers.  I LOVED THIS ONE!!!  I love this series.  I want to be a Satan’s Devil!!  I just have to learn to ride a bike first!!

The Daredevil (WaterFyre Rising Book 2) by Nadia Han – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

The Daredevil (WaterFyre Rising, #2)The Daredevil by Nadia Han
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another thrilling installment in this series. This kept me on the edge of my seat the entire read. There is so much thought put into each character and how they overlap and interact.

Michelle is leading the life she wants to lead as a wandering blogger. Michelle’s ex-boyfriend had not only been controlling but just wanted her as arm candy. She was relieved that the relationship was over but he had caused her to lose all faith in love and relationships.

Royce didn’t believe in love. He had watched the tragic path of destruction it had caused for his mother and his aunt. Besides, Royce led a life most envied. He was a part-time volcanologist, full-time businessman, and modern day explorer. Thanks to some good business ventures along the way, Royce had the money to continue his lifestyle.

Royce and Michelle had met casually amongst their friends. But on a rain soaked night, when Royce appeared out of the dark to rescue Michelle, they both felt an instant connection. Was it friendship? Was it lust? Was it deeper than that?? As Michelle and Royce discover, their lives were more intertwined than either one knew.

This series is fantastic. The connection to the story is real. Looking forward to 3!!

View all my reviews

Love Tools (Bluestone Series Book 1) by Isobel Reed – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Love Tools (Bluestone Series, #1)Love Tools by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A sweet romance with lots of feels. The author tries to take you on a voyage of self discovery while Lily also attempts to find out who her father was.

Lily inherited a hardware store from a father she didn’t know. Feeling stuck in her life in London, Lily takes off for rural Montana to see if she can make a go of it and maybe discover who her father was and why he left her. With enough bad break-ups behind her, Lily swears off men while her life is complicated enough with getting the hardware store up, running, and profitable.

Jake is looking for more. He has a heartbreaker reputation in town but that is not who he is. When this brash, golden haired beauty showed up in town, Jake knew that he had found the one. Now he just needed to convince her.

Darling story sprinkled with some great banter (wishing there was more British slang) and some decent laughs. You will get caught up in the characters and want to keep reading the series!

View all my reviews

Degrees of Innocence: Dark Mafia Romance (Cruel Deceptions Book 1) By Via Mari – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Degrees of Innocence (Prestian Series, #1)Degrees of Innocence by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I can’t believe it ended like that with the revelations just coming out like that. So much T just spilled there at the end by mom. How can she just drop bombs like that and then disappear back home??? How does that affect Chase and Kate? Does the truth about Kate’s father become a bigger part of her life?

This book has reeled me in. I have to know what happens next. If I wasn’t already a fan of this author, I would be now!!

View all my reviews

Taming Beckett (The Playmakers Series Hockey Romances Book 1) by G.K. Brady – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Taming Beckett (The Playmakers, #1)Taming Beckett by G.K. Brady
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don’t know why I keep doing this to myself! I start reading a book only later to discover it is part of a series. I think I can read just the one but these authors must be Lays because you can’t read just one. This book had me feeling all the feels. I wanted to shake Beckett several times and ask him what the heck he was thinking but it turns out he absolutely was thinking about Andie.

Beckett has been the bad boy of hockey for a long time and while his career has taken minor hits, it has not been truly affected due to his antics. Until now. One mistake, one night he can’t forget. It will cost him everything and almost everyone. As Beckett is trying to right the sinking ship that is his life, he has a chance encounter with a blast from the past.

Paige is moving in the right direction. Her company is growing. She has new opportunities popping up almost everyday. She is in a loving marriage. Or so she thought until one phone call proves that she doesn’t know her husband after all. Paige has started a friendship with Beckett. Andie, as Beckett calls her, knows that friendship is all it can ever be because Beckett is and has always been a player. After being burned by her now ex-husband, Paige won’t take the chance on someone that will end up breaking her heart. There is so much more to this decision that Paige can’t admit to herself, starting with the strained relationship with her mother.

Throughout the friendship between Beckett and Andie, Beckett changes. They really get to know each other. Andie helps Beckett understand the errors of his ways. Beckett helps Andie push her limits. When Beckett realizes that he wants more will Andie agree?

This story was abso-effing-lutely fabulous. I am so in for the rest of this series. The chemistry between Andie and Beckett was electric. The characters are real. Beckett and Andie each face their own demons in such realistic ways. I am hooked. Bring me more hockey players and the strong women that love or might love them.

View all my reviews

Reckless Heart (Second Chance Romance Series Book 2) by Jane Suen – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Reckless Heart (Second Chance Romance #2)Reckless Heart by Jane Suen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ahhhhhh! These two, Mary and Brad, drove me crazy. Seriously. They still have residual feelings from when they were in high school but each harbor hurt, anger or resentment about one incident that has colored everything since. BUT, neither want to talk about their feelings. Ugh!!!

This sweet romance of first love getting a second chance is good. The story is relatable and the characters are real. I just wanted to shake them both at different times and scream for them to talk to one another!! Like when Brad got all in his feelings when Mary asked if a family was in his future. I don’t believe she was trying to hurt him. I believe Mary was genuinely curious if that was something wanted in or for his future. *sigh* I was totally in favor of the way Laurie got Mary to the hospital.

To make the rock formation perfect, Mary needs to carve her and Brad’s initials, just like the original!!

Decent sweet romance.

View all my reviews

Thief (Popov Bratva Book 4) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Thief (Popov Bratva #4)Thief by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Bratva prince. The long lost daughter of a 1%-er MC president. Secrets. Revenge. Mistrust. Tension. Grief. Throw in a few country songs, blend on high! Instant ro-spense magic!!!

Dominic is bored. He has been living the Bratva life. It has not been as exciting since his twin left to be with his fiance. Dominic hasn’t even really found the company of women interesting. The one thing that brings any joy anymore is boosting cars. One night, he sets out to do just that. Except he gets more than he bargained for when he takes off in her car.

Leah is on hiatus from her singing career due to a scandal that caused her to take a step back. One night she is out looking for her wallet that she lost and when someone steals her car, she does the only logical thing she can think of, she jumps into the passenger side and pepper sprays the driver. This doesn’t stop him from stealing her car and only gets her kidnapped. This is just the beginning to the bad night Leah was having.

Dominic and Leah float around in the same circles for a while, trying to avoid each other due to the intense attraction felt by both. Until the friend thing doesn’t work. The hurt feelings and anger is just the tip of the iceberg for these two. Throw in a vengeful father, a crazy ex, more secrets, paparazzi, some ice and shake. Don’t stir.

Hot Dang!!! You never knew what was coming next. This book was fantastic!! If you haven’t started this series, don’t wait! Start here.

View all my reviews

Beast (Popov Bratva Book 5) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

Beast (Popov Bratva #5)Beast by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I don’t know if a main character since the fairy tales days has been so misjudged simply on his looks. Adrik deserved so much better than his father and the people who mistreated him simply because of his looks. I am so happy Adrik found Annika.

Adrik had met with much misfortune in his life. At 8, he was disfigured by a dog. At 17, his father kicked him out of the house. At 19, Adrik found himself on the streets, homeless. Adrik figured out a plan and put it into motion. He joined the Popov Bratva and sought to make a better life for himself. Just as things were starting to turn around for him, tragedy struck and Adrik lost the people most important to him except for his Bratva brothers. Many years after working his way up through the ranks, Adrik is a trusted soldier. He gets a special assignment, to guard the boss’s daughter. The only problem is that Adrik has been crushing on her since joining the Bratva 8 years ago.

Annika is not like all the Bratva princesses. She is weird, quiet, and shy. Ever since recovering from a childhood trauma, Annika has liked playing her piano more than being with people. After a recent attempt on her life, Annika has been confined to a wheelchair. When Annika’s stalker reappears, she agrees to go into hiding but she wants to pick the guards. She picks Adrik and his partner. As Annika gets to know Adrik more, the more she knows that he is the one for her. But so much stands in their way.

When the stalker takes things to the next level, his identity is discovered. Adrik is haunted by this. Things come to a head when Annika is kidnapped and Adrik is left to the Bratva to be dealt with.

Let me say that I am a mafiosa at heart. I have not spent much time getting to know the Russian Bratva but if all are like the Popov Bratva, I will find room in my omerta’d heart for the brotherhood. Excellent story. Fantastic characters. Strong, sassy women!!! Just the right amount of heat. What is not to love? Not much!!!

View all my reviews