Saint Con by Seelie Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
i really found this to be quite the romantic suspense. It is intense, powerful and our female protagonist really had to take on a big role. I found the writing quite engaging and intriguing. I was ulled in right from the start. You jump right on in and devour this story. The characters are relatable yet so powerfully written. A story full of romance, suspense, and danger that you should read.
Melt My Heart by Alicia Street
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Oh, this is such a sweet fur baby romance. They meet when she’s trying to catch a stray. They come from two different worlds and the story builds from their. It’s really a darling romance that will melt your heart. A very cute story helps too, who doesn’t love puppies? It’s a quick romantic read that’s quite entertaining. Several times I was chuckling and my husband asked why. I love explaining books like this to him. The characters are written so well that you feel like you know them. This is a story you should read.
Melt My Heart by Alicia Street
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was such a lovely story – I loved it and was completely hooked from beginning to end. It didn’t take me long to fall in love with the main characters, they were both so warm and likeable. I really liked the storyline it was easy to follow and the authors lovely writing style was a pleasure to read. I loved Wynter, she really was such a lovely person, she had a warm heart and her passion in life was encouraging people to donate to worthy causes. I really thought that Caleb was going to be you r typical playboy but I could tell as soon as he met Wynter she was the one for him!
This really was a lovely read and one that I would highly recommend!
Sins of the Father by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the third book in the McIntire County series, this can be read as a standalone but to get a deeper understand of the characters and past events which link them, I would recommend reading from book 1. In this instalment we followed Jolie and Xavier.
As with the previous books in the series, the writing style is easy to follow and the descriptive language pulls you into the story, allowing you to picture both characters and scenery.
I found the characters of Jolie and Xavier particularly interesting; their pasts were what interested me most and how this affected them. Jolie, a new deputy in charge of finding a missing girl, faces the pressure from her family and what makes her different and intriguing to me. It’s not just the usual pressures, her brother is a killer and the effect of this on her was shown quite well, I think. She’s determined and continues looking into the case and the new elements despite being given the ‘easy’ answers. I enjoyed her character development as she reminded me a little of myself in being unsure of herself, but her confidence grows, and you can see her really coming into her own. She’s one of my favourites so far.
I look forward to the next one!
Almost and Forever by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this story. Beautiful, tragic and original. A story of how love is not easy. Such beautiful writing. The characters are written and developed so very well. You can’t help but be sucked into this story. You’ll feel every emotion that is felt. I couldn’t put this story down. I felt like i was on a roller coaster.
Tracker by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Reading Riley and Lynette’s story was fascinating. My understanding is that this is the prequel to the series. I came into the series later and I have to say that this gave me a different perspective. I enjoyed the writing. I have enjoyed the characters in the story. Reading about and following each as they find their match of talisman to warrior signs is fun. Their is strength, courage and bravery in each character. The writing is very well done. I love this series.
Saint Con by Seelie Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wow this book was amazing. It si a passionate love at first sight story but with so many twists and turns I wasn’t sure our couple would ever get their happy ever after.
The author’s writing really brings the characters to life and it makes this story so engaging that you won’t be able to put it down.
When Con and Jessica meet after literally bumping into each other at a bar, Con knew she was the one for him and he had to be with her. Jess on the other hand was not as confident, not wanting to get her hopes up. However Con is determined to prove to her that its love at first sight and goes out of his way to do that. So Jess is more than a little confused when their date arrived and Con doesn’t show up.
Feeling heartbroken and angry at being led on Jess leaves feeling like she was played with. She plans to move on and forget Con until it comes to light that Con is missing.
What follows is a story that at times made me cry and made me doubt that they would ever get the break to see if what they have is real. With kidnapping, amnesia, PTSD and an attack which altered the course of both of their lives will they ever be able to find their way back to each other or will what they have disappear just like Con did on that fateful day.
Tracker by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Riley, with his brother and friend, goes to a party after attending a training on how to find their Talisman- their other half to help guard their back in a battle. All are looking for a good time but also, they each secretly want to be the first to find their Talisman. Lynnette and her friends are at the same party. Knowing that they are to be on the lookout for their warrior, no one really thinks it is going to happen THAT night. Low and behold, Riley and Lynnette are matched pretty quickly. Riley takes Lynnette to a cabin to finish their bonding. However, in his boldness and thrill of being the first of the guys to find his Talisman, he forgets the most critical part. He has left them unprotected and open to attack. Can they complete the ritual before it is too late? Or will they be forever separated because of Riley’s pride?
I started reading this series prior to the prequel. It was nice to be able to read Riley and Lynnette’s origin story. It added a different insight as to how they play their parts in the books I have already read. I do not think I was missing anything, but I enjoyed reading their action-packed story. It was like experiencing a flashback in a movie, only in the book series. It was a quick read and worth reading because I can see the character added in this book coming back to play a bigger role. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
Faking the Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The sweetest love story I have read in a while! Grab your favorite drink and a cozy blanket and snuggle up because you won’t want to put this down! I enjoyed how wholesome this story was. Alice and James have the sweetest connection and I loved unraveling their story. The small town life aspect is more than accurate as everyone is in everyone’s business and gossip spreads fast. Which is exactly what the couple needs to keep their peace. It was a beautiful painted picture that kept me engaged from start to finish! If you are looking for a cute romcom, look no further.
Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the fourth and final book of this series. Hannah is a lawyer whose brother passed away about a year ago. She also has a stalker who is becoming increasingly threatening. Doyle is a detective who has taken a step back from police work to find himself. A friend sought out Doyle in hopes he would take her case. This is just what he needs to jump back in. This one leaves you on the edge of your seat!
https://www.amazon.com/review/R1OTW9AM00QA5I/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/4277049822
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5912355946
Tracker by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
Tracker is a prequel and where it all started for the Talisman series. This paranormal fantasy series is a definite must-read. It’s easy to become immersed in Tam’s magical world of modern-day alpha Celtic warriors.
It is written in multiple POV which makes the story so much more interesting hearing from different perspectives.
This unique series has a lot going on and all the paranormal goodness with Celtic mythology druids and mythology, gods and goddesses, shamans, supernatural abilities, magic, a curse, revenge, and good vs evil.
Tracker is a quick action-packed well written read and a good introduction to the colourful and badass warriors in this series.
Tracker is the fun story of Riley and Lynette and how he found his Talisman. Riley is a skilled warrior, but a young man who likes to have a good time and thinks he is all that. There were times I wanted to smack some of that out of him.
Lynette is level-headed and keeps him in check on top of trying to learn about her gift.
Now all they have to do is stay one step ahead of Morrigan a goddess who does not want warriors and their talisman to bond.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Merry Christmas, Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 stars
Merry Christmas, Montana is the third book in the heart-warming series The Millers of Marietta by Elsa.
This small-town romance is a fun story and a nice read to escape for a few hours. Plus, we get the added bonus of it being set around Christmas. It gives you all the feels and gets you in to Christmas mode.
The Millers of Marietta is about the Miller siblings as the name suggests, who moved to Marietta for a new start. You really should read the books in order as these wonderful characters cross over and you get to find out so much more about them. I love the characters and it is nice to catch up.
As I said this tale is filled with mixed emotions, taking chances, laughter, family, love, weddings, with slow burn romance and spicy undertones.
With just the right pace, some tension, and realistic characters that you can’t help but like it is easy to become invested.
I had mixed emotions about Riley in the beginning, but a broken heart will do that to a person, so I understand. She doesn’t have time for or want love. She is only in town for a cousins wedding. AND the fun begins.
Mitch was so easy to like and being the eldest he is a little overprotective and can come across as a grump. It was fun to watch these two dance around each other.
Plus, you hope that one little boy gets his Christmas wish.
This delightful story is also the perfect gift for Christmas, birthdays or just because. It leaves you eager for what’s to come next.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Melt My Heart by Alicia Street
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
Melt My Heart by Alicia Street is book 2 in the North Fork series, and it will lift your spirits. I was first introduced to this sweet romance tale in the anthology Irresistible at Christmas – Pets to the Rescue and thoroughly enjoyed it.
It is a wonderfully written tale this is a quick and easy read. It is heartwarming and heartfelt with adorable characters.
I was so engrossed and drawn into their journey so much that before I knew it, I was turning the last page and at some stage hubby was calling for me and I didn’t hear him. He’ll get over it because it’s not the first time he has been ignored whilst I was reading.
The story was a little predictable, but it is still a fun story with some steam and lots of surprise twist and drama.
They come from different worlds but when a rich ex-SEAL falls for a waitress at the local café the chase begins even if she is not sure they are a good match.
Let’s not forget the adorable four-legged creature who worms their way into hearts as well.
Who doesn’t love a sweet story with fur babies and romance?
I am excited to read the rest of the series.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Almost and Forever by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
**This book contains adult content and the loss of a loved one. It is not suitable for all readers. **
Almost and Forever is a heartachingly beautiful tale. Tissues please……. This old saying holds true in this case – “If you love something, set it free. If it comes back, it’s yours. If not, it was never meant to be,”
It is a tale of love, loss, guilt, hope, want, need, anger, angst and forgiveness and so much more that it will have you smiling one moment and then crying the next all throughout.
The story flowed smoothly and with likeable but heartbreaking characters. I love that this book was written in both of the characters points of views, and I loved the care, the tenderness, and everything in between. There were times when I wanted to shake them and others when I wanted to wrap them in big hugs but as they say the road to happiness is not always straight.
When truths come to light it may just destroy everything.
He is all she has ever wanted but how can you compete will a ghost, when one’s heart is with another. Playing second fiddle is not a place she wants to be.
He is a mess, but she makes him want more only he is buried in his grief.
If you like a sweet romance with a few twists and turns, then give this author a go.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Tracker by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Prequels aren’t usually my favourite type of books, as I prefer to read the stories as they develop rather than going back and forth. However, this is a great example of how a prequel should be done. It was engaging and well written, offering a new storyline without feeling like we were being told the same things we already knew. It was a great insight into characters we have already been introduced to and I enjoyed finding out more about them.
The author has created a well developed and intriguing series. Each book pulls me in and I find myself caught up in what is going on. Whenever a new book or new series is released by this author, I am always excited to see what I will find. This is a fantastic story and I would highly recommend the series as a whole.
No Amends by Angela Lam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
No Amends was a hauntingly tragic book about a mysterious car accident that left so many people wondering what happened to Dee. Tang a writer who is suffering from writer’s block, is keeping secrets from her girlfriend Layla. What connections does Tang have to Dee, will they come out, and if so, how will Layla react to the uncertainty about their relationship? Angela Lam did a wonderful job keeping the reader engaged and constantly connecting the pieces of this romantic suspense story. The characters are so in-depth that you feel connected to them. You question what is going on in their minds, and what they are thinking when it comes out who had passed from the fatal car accident that happens in the first chapter of the book. What a great way to get a story started, to keep the reader guessing and compiling clues from the get-go. I love a good suspense romance story and was quite impressed with this strong storyline. I look forward to reading more from this author.
@Brandy Rymer
10/2023
Wild Lavender by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the first book I have read from this author and wow I’m blown away. I have not read a fantasy book in a while and I’m so glad I picked this one up. This is the first book from the heart and hand series. You will fall in love with these characters very quickly. I couldn’t put this book down until the end. I can’t wait to read the new book.
Aubrianne thought she was going to get her happily ever after when she married Lord Roger but she was wrong. She quickly finds out that he is evil as they come. Anna is shocked when a handsome man is assigned to investigate her husband. She quickly finds out that this guy might be her real true love. Will Anna be free from her husband’s crimes or will she be found just as guilty as he is?
Review @heatherbass
View all my reviews
The Man In Black by L.R. Liverpool
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I almost did not give this book a chance due solely to the length – I rarely read books this long anymore, I am glad i decided to give it a go. It took me a while to really get into the story, but if you can give it a little time to draw you in, it is totally worth it. The characters had great depth, the storyline keeps you entertained, and once you’re interested, you may well find yourself reading every chance you get because you want to know how the story ends.
No Amends by Angela Lam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Chapters have different character POV between Dee and Tang,and the point in time to help keep the plot moving. The steamy scenes between the two female lovers was just about right for this type of romance. The suspense of the affair and if Tang was going to get found out kept me turning the pages. Lam does a great job of giving just enough of the secret almost slipping out for Tang to be caught, and the loneliness she feels with having no family. The suspense of the relationship Tang tries to balance and the writing of her book keep you guessing!
▽ )˖°°˖✧ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ( ▽ )˖°°˖✧
A skilled warrior with a life-changing task…
Every warrior needs a talisman – but for Riley Sheridan, he cares more about partying with his buddies than finding the mate he’s supposed to bond with for life. That is, until a stunning raven-haired woman steps up to the keg and asks for a beer.
A fiery beauty with untapped powers…
Lynnette Montgomery came to the festival to relax, celebrate, and take her mind off her still-undiscovered magical powers. But after fate draws her to a suave and cocky warrior, she’s shocked to realize that she’s his fated talisman. But finding your mate is never supposed to be this easy.
And the wrath of a goddess bent on their demise.
Drawn by a ripple in the cosmos, the infamous goddess Morrigan sets her sights on the pair. She’s dead-set on stopping the next Sheridan from bonding to his talisman – and when they retreat to a remote cabin to complete the ritual, she sees her chance to strike. After the goddess kidnaps Riley, Lynette is quickly thrust into a deadly battle with a seemingly impossible goal: to save him from a fate worse than death.
Bursting with all the pulse-pounding action and rich worldbuilding of a riveting fantasy adventure, this gripping prequel is a must-read for fans of Tam DeRudder Jackson’s Talisman Series, or as a starting point for your adventure into a world of modern-day Celtic warriors.
Click here to view the Book Trailer for Tracker (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson
Tam DeRudder Jackson’s love of all things Celtic led her to write the Talisman Series. Steeped in Celtic mythology, these steamy, fated mates, fantasy romance adventures are set in the mountains of Tam’s native Montana and the Highlands of Scotland. Rogue, the most recent book in the series, was named a best book read in 2022 by the Independent Book Review.
An avid fan of rock music, Tam never misses a chance to see a live show. Her love of rock music inspired her contemporary rock star Balefire Series, a sexy fun ride following the lives and loves of the members of a fictional mega-band. Play For Me, book one in the series, was a finalist for the 2023 Amor Book Awards.
Tam earned her BA in English from Montana State University and her M.Ed. in literacy from Lesley University. After a short teaching stint in Bath, England, she settled in the wilds of Wyoming where she taught adolescents all about the Celts and a bit about writing before she stepped out of the classroom to pursue her writing career full time.
When she’s not writing, you can find her working her way through her mountainous TBR piles, alpine skiing, or traveling to some new place on her ever-expanding bucket list. To stay up to date on her adventures, connect with Tam on her website www.tamderudderjackson where you can subscribe to her newsletter.
➹⁀✵‿➹⁀ COVER REVEAL ➹⁀✵‿➹⁀Tanjie is a witch but doesn’t know it. Will she accept her power for good or evil?
Tanjie is pushed to face her destiny by an unexpected inheritance. The bookshop isn’t what she anticipated and is part of a magical world she doesn’t belong to. Tanjie can’t wait to leave, get back to her own life, but then she is shown what her magical powers can do.
Alaric detests the witches and their control over the pack as much as every other wolf shifter. The alpha is planning a rebellion and Alaric will help lead the attack on the witches. But then he meets Tanjie.
Secrets are being hidden from them both.
Tanjie must learn quickly otherwise her mistakes will cost her life. If Alaric isn’t clear what side he is on, he risks losing the pack forever.
Who will pay the consequences of their ignorance?
~ 
~ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ~ ~ ~
Single mom Riley O’Sullivan isn’t one to complain, but with her closest family members now settled in Marietta, Montana, while she still calls Portland home, finding good help isn’t as easy as it used to be. With Christmas approaching, Riley and her young son Dylan are excited to be in Marietta with family for the holidays; but she certainly doesn’t need maddening Mitch Miller coming to her rescue, awakening her senses, or making Dylan ask questions about what dads do.
Mitch Miller left his successful financial career behind him when he moved to Marietta with his two sisters. He’s not looking for love, but Riley captivates him like no other woman ever has. She thinks he’s an overprotective grinch–with good cause–but it’s clear to everyone Riley and Dylan could use a little Christmas magic and he’s willing to help. It’s not as if he’s offering his heart.
Perhaps all it will take to bring them together is the Christmas wish from one special little boy.
Click here to view the Book Trailer for Merry Christmas, Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book 3) by Elsa Winckler
Elsa has been reading love stories for as long as she can remember and when she ‘met’ the classic authors like Jane Austen, Elizabeth Gaskell, Henry James The Brontë sisters, etc. during her Honors studies, she was hooked for life.
She married her college boyfriend and they are fortunate to live in the picturesque little seaside village of Betty’s Bay, South Africa.
She adores writing kissing books with strong, beautiful, feisty, independent and headstrong heroines and dashing Alpha heroes who loves fiercely and protects the ones they love. Her stories typically incorporate the family background of the characters to better understand where they come from and who they are when we meet them in the story.
BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE 
Hope
Adam Emerson was meant for me, but unfortunately, his heart belonged to someone else.
At a pivotal point in my life, I decided to end my relationship to make room for something new. My change of heart couldn’t have come at a better time.
My future began the moment I met Adam. Our first encounter showed his kindness. He swept in on a wish and was whisked away just as fast. During our second encounter, I got a glimpse of his anger. But the third revealed all of him—a man who loves fiercely, even in the midst of grief.
Adam
While dealing with a heartbreaking loss, I visited a local cafe for a reprieve. I didn’t expect to run into Hope again or to intervene when some guy approached her. The timing couldn’t have been worse for my interference, but she looked like she needed a reprieve too. After spending minutes with her, I wanted days, and the days turned into weeks. Hope showered my grief with kindness and doused my anger with love. When I wanted to lose control, she wouldn’t let me. She gave me space but kept me close. But there was more to her than I realized.
When a shocking discovery is revealed, I’m left wondering if our connection is strong enough to sustain us. Or is it the very thing that will tear us apart?
**
Almost and Forever is a beautiful, heartwarming story of loss, love, and forgiveness!
**This book contains adult content and the loss of a loved one. It is not suitable for all readers.**
Angela K. Parker is an author who believes in HEAs. She writes intense romance with heart, emotion, and steam brought to life by strong heroines and their swoon worthy heroes.
Angela lives in South Carolina. Amongst writing, she has a passion for reading, music, and math. When she’s not engaged in any of the above, she’s spending time with her family or catching up on the latest movies. She’s always had an active imagination. Now she’s putting it to good use.
̩͙̩̩̥͙̩̥̩ ⑅ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ⑅ ̩̥̩̩̩̥͙̩͙ˊˎ
A rescued dog. A mysterious letter. A secret history shared. Can the challenge that brings Wynter and Caleb together melt the hearts of two people who have given up on love? Wynter used to like schmoozing with wealthy people and talking them into donating their money to a good cause. As a professional fundraiser working for nonprofits, she thought she had the best of both worlds, even felt a bit like a female Robin Hood. But after falling for a charming liar who shattered her career as well as her heart, Wynter has sworn off all men. Ex-Navy SEAL Caleb has not sworn off women, but love is definitely off the table. Now making big money selling high-priced yachts, one-night stands are easy to come by. So many parts of himself have been dead since his last military tour that he is done with opening his heart or trying to be anybody’s hero. But then he meets Wynter.
Alicia Street is a USA Today bestselling author and a Daphne du Maurier award winner. She writes both steamy and sweet romance and sometimes collaborates with her husband, Roy. She spent many years as a professional dancer, choreographer, and teacher. A compulsive reader of every genre, Alicia loves watching old black-and-white movies and inventing new recipes for soup.
Wild Lavender, Book One of Heart and Hand Series by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book, the first in its series. I can’t wait to see how the next book plays out. I loved Anna’s strength. I would recommend this book to others. However, mentioning the treatment of Anna by her husband as well as those under him may be triggering for some.
Wolfbane by Celia Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was my first novel from this author and I greatly enjoyed this paranormal shifter romance. I thought that Jasmine was a wonderful heroine caught in a tough situation, being involved in a love triangle. I definitely loved her friendship with Lucy and I thought the contrasts between the friends really showcased their friendship. I loved the multiple POV’s so we could see what the other characters were feeling and thinking. The author did a great job of creating depth to her characters and making you really care about what happens to them. The steamy scenes were especially hot. This is a great start to a dynamic series and I can’t wait to read the rest of the stories.
Chasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Adorable Christmas story, full of magic, love, and all the feels.
When Holly Claus decides to check in on a small-town fall festival, she doesn’t know she is changing her life forever. This slow build love story is a good reminder to be present so we don’t miss the joy to be found around us. I am hoping for more stories around the characters in this book because each brought their own little spark.
Reviewed by @daree222
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Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Beautiful Dangerous is the fourth installment of the Philly Heat Series by Becky Flade. These books can be read as stand alone. This captivating Thriller-Romance follows Public Defender Hannah Patel and Detective Doyle Murphy. This book as well as the other 3 in this series are a beautifully written symphony of suspense, mystery, and sizzling romance. The characters are real, raw, and relatable. Hannah has a stalker that is getting out of hand. When she turns to Detective Murphy for help. But as the two start to get closer they push her stalker to new heights. You will not be able to put this book down until the gripping conclusion. 4 out of 5 stars!
Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I adore this author. Hannah and Dectecrive Doyle were a match. I enjoyed watching the blossom so much and the thrills were the perfect touch to this romance thriller. This series has shaped up to be some of my favorite books of 2023 and this one has to be the top. Well written and easy to read with the perfect amount of omg factor. Adored!