Date Night by K.M. Lowe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Date Night was a quick read but it packs a bit of a story with it. I was really able to connect with the characters in this book and that always makes a story better when you can see yourself in similar situations.
This had everything you need for an instant-love story and a nice change of pace from major drama filled books, which is nice .
Relentless by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
As with all of this authors books, another amazing read! I always get wrapped up in these stories and this was no different. Layla and Dereck story kept me turning pages to see what would happen next and of course they bring the heat too.
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Intriguing, thought-provoking and brilliant. This book had me questioning so much about how long the current world can keep existing. I really connected with the main character and was quickly emotionally vested. The setting (my backyard) was so easily visualised and the messages of survival, sustainable living and inclusion were so craftily interwoven in this dystopian sci-fi based in our own world. This book had me questioning so much, even when I wasn’t reading. There is a lot presented in the pages but being the first book in a series this is expected and by the end it will have you wanting to know even more.
Bovine Tricks by Seelie Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Bovine Tricks is book one in the Royals Gone Rogue series by Seelie Kay. This was a fabulous short story that was a little different than what I have read by this author. It was a real delight to read the mysterious tale of suspense and intrigue. Tillie and Abdul are tasked with rescuing and returning a royal to the Queen. A dangerous journey that uncovers many surprises has Tillie and Abdul trying to fight their attraction to each other and complete the mission successfully. With obstacles coming at them at every direction, this story was energetic and edgy. A real thrilling and captivating story. 4 stars.
Luminoso by S.J. Molloy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Luminoso us the fourth book in The Luminara Series by SJ Molloy will have your emotions all over the place. The dark of the past rears its ugly head again just when things seemed to have settled. There is heartache and a deranged psychopath hellbent on revenge. This is the last book in the series and whilst it grabs at you and you want to keep the lights on there is also some aspects of the story that were a little too wordy for me.
Reviewed by @jennadb
My Lips Are Sealed by Carmen Richter
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3.5 stars
My Lips Are Sealed (Sealed With a Kiss Book 1) by Carmen Richter is a YA story that many will connect with. My Lips Are Sealed (Sealed With a Kiss Book 1) by Carmen Richter is a YA story that many will connect with. Things moved so quickly that it took a while for me to get into There is angst and drama, and I did struggle to connect with the main character Zoe. It is definitely an emotional roller coaster ride when one loses love so young but then finds a forbidden love. that it took a while for me to get into There is angst and drama, and I did struggle to connect with the main character Zoe. It is definitely an emotional roller coaster ride when one loses love so young but then finds a forbidden love.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Luminoso by S.J. Molloy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The next chapter of Lucca and Lexi can they survive or will the past catch up with them and ruin their relationship.
Lexi is going through a lot, finding out she is pregnant and trying to hide it for the time being from friends and family but with horrendous morning sickness can she keep up the charade. Lucca as always is the protecting Lexi but can he be there all the time and keep her safe.
This is the fourth book in this series and to be honest if you are coming to this series fresh I would start from the beginning, although you do get more of the backstory within the book you really need to understand this couples journey from the beginning. With that said this story was epic, you understand a lot more of Lexi’s story and the ordeal that this woman went through in her childhood. I also loved the passion that jumps off the page with Lucca and that Lexi is his world and the utter determination that drives him to protect her.
This is a well written fast paced story with wonderful developed characters and a utter joy to read, although there is some dark history coming forward the light definitely out shines the dark. I can’t wait to read more stories by this wonderful author.
Reviewed by Angela Shirley
Myths & Legends by Laura Greenwood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Myths & Legends: An Indie Love Anthology is seven original stories by seven wonderful authors which are based on myths and legends across time and genres but with a romantic theme. This interesting collection ranges from the paranormal and fantasy. forbidden love and second chances to crime and investigation. They are quick reads, but I would have loved they be longer versions.
From Egyptian and Greek myths, Arthurian legends and Robin Hood and Gods and Goddesses. With magic and paranormal creatures, drama and danger, dragons and shifters, what could make for a better read.
Carrie Austin Malone’s Dragon’s Heart was a standout for me. I love dragon’s and shifters and this one has them in spades. With a little of everything to keep you wanting more.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Love by Design by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the Meraki series and itnwas just as enjoyable as the first. The story of a work romance and a love hate relationship keeps you hooked with a will they won’t they feel.
Mia has just got her dream job with a luxury magazine and she gets to work under a boss she has always admired and had a crush on Nicholas what could possible go wrong?
Mia is shocked when Nicholas isn’t how she imagined he would be. When he dismisses her work and his attitude towards her causes friction from their first meeting. Mia wonders if she can still work with him.
Nicholas has faced many heartaches in his life which has lead him to build walls and keep people out so when Mia starts to break these walls he gets worried about getting hurt again.
This is a story about a relationship where it is definately love/hate but why does Nicholas treat Mia that way? Could there be more to the feelings they are both experiencing? And when do you cross the line between hating someone to loving them?
FIVE STARS!!
Fake Fiancé is a sophisticated romance novel that takes place in awe striking Verona where Romeo and Juliet fell in love and died for each other. The story follows Adeline, a strong, beautiful, clumsy woman with a drive to strengthen her career. Stone is a young entrepreneur who owns a hotel and is looking to expand. Neither realize what they really need until she falls into his life. The time period romance warms your heart and makes you realize how lucky we are to be able to live and love in our present world. Will this couple be able to work it out for reals? Or will their past mess everything up?
Adeline is freshly graduated and off to start her life in Italy. She got a job offer thanks to a sorority sister and takes the opportunity to expand her horizons. Being a whole ocean away from her clingy ex is a major plus. She knows next to nothing about her soon to be boss, Stone Crenshaw, but boy does she make a great first impression upon meeting him for the first time.
Stone Crenshaw is currently renovating his historic hotel and wants nothing more than to be done with this so he can focus on other things. He wants to move on to newer, fresher projects and keep himself busy. The first meeting with Adeline was not a smooth one, but he was willing to give her a chance to prove that she is willing and able to fill the shoes of his current secretary. Stone finds out that a well known hotelier is ready to sell and he pounces at the chance to nab the hotel. The only problem is that this man is family-oriented and Stone doesn’t have a family of his own. He will go to any lengths to make this deal happen including making Adeline his fiancé.
I enjoyed the story line for this book very much. It was a good listen while I did chores around the house and it kept me entertained. I especially liked the idea that they were reincarnated soul mates of a couple from different social backgrounds many years before. I like to think that reincarnation is a thing and that two people who are truly meant to be together find one another in every life that they live.
Naomi is a writer that lives at the edge of a cemetery that has graves dating back to the 1700s. Having recently started dating a man named Ryan, she is trying to start fresh after leaving her abusive boyfriend Nick. Even though she is happy in her relationship with Ryan she feels that the romantic part of their relationship is coming to an end. She meets a single father, Bryce, and his daughter and feels the attraction. What is she going to do? She doesn’t want to lose Ryan, but she can’t help the feelings she is developing for her neighbor. When she gets writers block she hopes that she may be able to find inspiration from a name out there in the cemetery, that’s when she comes across Maggie’s headstone. Her creative juices start flowing and words start flowing from her pen as she jots down ideas. Soon she starts to see apparitions of a woman in her home and wonders who she is and what she wants. This ghost wants her story told, but Naomi can’t quite figure out what the woman is trying to tell her. She starts to have dreams where she is seeing Maggie running being chased by someone, but she can’t quite see who it is. With her love life in tangles she decides to throw all of her efforts into finding out everything she can about Maggie’s death. It is Naomi’s goal to find out what truly happened to this young woman not only so she can get her story written, but also so the family gets the answers they have been seeking. She is also hoping that this will help Maggie get the peace that she deserves.
Just from looking at the cover of this book I thought I would be hearing about a woman that was running for her life from some sort of evil. I felt that the first couple of chapters were a little slow, but once I got past that I began to get into the story and truly enjoyed it. I thought I had this story figured out on several occasions, but then had to back track to look at it from a different angle. Everything made sense when it all came together in the end and I’m very glad I stuck with this book.
Maggie is a book I had the pleasure of reading when it was first released and when I saw it was out on audio I knew I had to listen to it, especially since I don’t have a lot of time to read books.
It had been a while since I had read it and I had forgotten some of the twists and events that happen and I think some of the events were enhances by Ms. Ember and her narrative. I really loved how Holly came across.
I enjoyed this as much this time as I did when I originally read it, maybe even a little more since the voice I heard wasn’t mine.
Walker Pride by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Walker Pride, by Bernadette Marie, is the first book in The Walker Family Series. This story is a great romantic suspense. Eric is facing the harsh truth that his family is going to lose the farm, and he may lose his life. Susan is coming out of a divorce and trying to start over. When their worlds collide, will they be able to keep the past in the past? Will Eric’s family issues and secrets keep him from moving on?
A great read with several unforeseeable plot twists.
Review by Carly Vogler
Myths & Legends by Laura Greenwood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I give Myths & Legends: An Indie Love Anthology, 5 stars.
This is such a great anthology. It has many different love stories, all centered around myths or legends. I thought they were all fantastic, and I hope there are some that are part of a series. I can’t really pick a favorite because I loved them all. I love how they take legends we know and give them a hearty twist while still keeping true to the original. These stories will stay with me — and that is the holy grail for authors. The twist on Hades — so unexpected and wonderful. The take on the lady in the lake — hauntingly beautiful and one that is not done nearly enough. And the last story in the book — what a fantastic way to end such an exciting anthology.
If you are a fan of romantic myths and legends with a twist, I highly recommend this anthology.
Try Right by Jill Brashear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Try Right (Aloha Series Book 3) by Jill Brashear was a really good read! I enjoyed this period piece set in the ’60s. I felt like i was right there in that time period with Claudia and Henry. I was instantly grabbed by this novel as soon as I opened it, from from first page. I also felt like I was right there in Hawaii and I absolutely loved it. I loved these characters and this plot line. I really want to go back and read the first two books that were in this series now. I’m so glad I grabbed this book to read!
Our Wicked Lies by Glede Browne Kabongo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a crime novel and is 332 pages. This story follows Alicia. Alicia has it all. A hot hubby, a gorgeous house, wonderful kids, and a great neighborhood to live in. What could go wrong? Well, Alicia uncovers some emails from between her husband and someone name Faith. They are in his draft folder – never sent? But why? Who is Faith? Alicia struggles to uncover this mystery all while hiding a secret of her own. But someone knows and what will it cost her?
Love Unexpected by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Love Unexpected by Marina Hanna – Review by Krista Vaughan
I wanted something hot and sexy to read and did this ever fit the bill! Jules is a strong, confident modern woman. Adam is a rich, successful force of nature that loves a good time. Their first kiss was electrifying and set the vibe for their passion for each other. Adam swearing off relationships to avoid hurting other people should be a BIG red flag, but Jules can’t seem to help herself. Adam keeps coming back for more, too. Such a dynamic couple and an amazing read.
Tapestry of Worlds, Part Two: Running and Gunning by Hadley Thorne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Tapestry of Worlds, Part Two: Running and Gunning
By Hadley Thorne
This book drew me right in from the start and took me on a magical adventure full of intrigue, suspense, originality, fantasy, wonderful characters and creatures, and so much more. The author wrote with such detail that I became completely invested in the story and characters. I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for us next. This is a fast paced book that is hard to put down and can be enjoyed by all. I highly recommend this book.
Tapestry of Worlds, Part Two: Running and Gunning by Hadley Thorne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is the second book in the Tapestry of Worlds series. I didn’t read the first one and I was able to follow the story pretty well. I’m sure the reading experience would be enhanced if you had some background from the first book, but it’s not necessary.
As for the story itself… it’s an interesting mix of various genre elements. Definitely a different read. The plot sounded promising, but I’m not sure all of the elements worked together seamlessly. It felt like it was a little scattered – there was a lot going on. To be perfectly honest, I’m not sure how I feel about the book overall, but it’s a very creative idea. I’m giving it four stars for originality and creativity.
Love Unexpected by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Love Unexpected by Marina Hanna is an 18+ book. This steamy romance will leave you wanting more!
A kiss with a stranger awakes something in Jules; hot desire and the need for more. Can she keep up with the benefits, or will she fall in love with him? Adam has never felt this way; he stays away from relationships. He wants the passion and the love making, but isn’t willing to do more… usually.
This story was steamy, and definitely an adult book. Would recommend to anyone who enjoyed 50 Shades of Grey.
Review by Carly Vogler
Love Unexpected by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Love Unexpected is the first story that I have read by Marina Hanna, and I am very impressed. Even though Love Unexpected is only 172 pages Miss Hanna leaves nothing out. Her contemporary romance hot, steamy, and definitely romantic. Her word play and descriptions will have any lover of romance stories flipping furiously through the pages to find out what happens next between Jules and Adam. So if you are either and avid reader or a lover of romance novels then I highly recommend Love Unexpected by Marina Hanna.
Flowers in December by Jane Suen is a short listen audiobook. We follow Connor Norton as he visits his hometown to deal with his mothers passing. Full of regret, Connor reflects on the last 20 years in which he has barely visited. Realizing he isn’t getting any younger, can Connor overcome his shortcomings and move on to make more of what he has left?
This was a great quick listen. I would have liked to have seen more development in the story line, and perhaps more of a look into Connor’s life later on.
Review by Carly Vogler
A Second Chance Office Romance
By: Amy McKinley
Narrated by: Regan Brown
Length: 3 hrs and 27 mins
Audiobook
4.6 out of 5 stars(26 ratings)
Fake Fiancé: A Second Chance Office Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this story. It was fast paced, quick witted and the characters were well written and likable. 19 year old Adeline is due to start a new dream job in sunny Italy after graduating when an encounter with a psychic at her sorority graduation party tells her to remember to follow her heart. Determined to only focus on her career and her hard earned success, a spanner is thrown in the works when her hot, sexy boss Stone asks her to be his fake fiance. I got lost in this story and found it entertaining with great scene setting from the author. I also found the narration to this story added more depth and really helped bring the story to life.
Love Unexpected by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is an enjoyable steamy contemporary romance with a fast paced storyline and great characters. Whilst out celebrating her new job at ‘Foster’s Advertising and Marketing’ Jules shares a drunken, heated kiss with a stranger only to discover on Monday morning that the guy is in fact her new boss, Adam Foster. Adam is shocked to find that the women he shared a passionate kiss with is his new intern but despite the no relationship clause in place at Foster’s he can’t get that kiss out of his head. Adam makes it clear to Jules that he is not interested in a relationship and that all he is offering is sex. Jules agrees and is happy with the uncomplicated sex, which happens to be great sex, with Adam but she soon realises her heart is at risk. However, will Adam admit that what he and Jules share is more than just physical. I loved both Jules and Adam as they are both likeable and relatable characters, who obviously have amazing chemistry which sizzled off the page and led to some very steamy scenes between the couple. The storyline kept me hooked from start to finish and I felt both immersed in the story and engaged with the characters.
Blue Summer Part One by Everly Taylor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really liked Lillie from this series. This is a cute story. With a few different character I like that you hear it from these guys heads. I was Suprised at the turn of events in this part of the series and am glad this is only part one as am looking forward to seeing where this journey goes.
Fake Fiancé: A Second Chance Office Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
So this book was really quick and easy to listen to which was good because busy work week. I really enjoyed this, I love me an office romance trope and this hit all the right spots. Really enjoyed Adeline and Stone together. Story flowed. Loved the pace it went at.
Bake Believe by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Bake Believe
Written by: Cori Cooper
Adorable!
This book had just the right amount of cuteness with a dash of magic to make it such a wonderful story. Cat had me giggling from the beginning with her silly antics. I read this to my daughter and she would not let me put it down till we finished. It makes me want to get in the kitchen and start baking again. We are MADLY in love with this story. We are definitely saving the recipes to bring a little happiness to our families later.
Love by Design by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this novel. I appreciated the pace of the characters coming together. Effie highlighted that while love is not always easy it is worth it and for Mia and Nicholas’ relationship, it was perfect. Effie’s utilization of the flashback technique provided a better understanding of certain elements and insight about the characters and strengthened one of the themes (destiny) in the novel. I admired the complexity of the main characters. It was easy to follow, engaging and romantic in every sense of the word. Love by Designed is packed with layers (pages) and the more you read the more you want to know, the more you are intrigued.
