Raising Elle by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Raising Elle is a very fun and easy read. The author has done an amazing job in creating the story and the characters. All of the characters are very relatable from the minor characters to the main characters. The story does flow well from beginning to end. The character development was very well done.
Raising Elle by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the story about Elle Sullivan who returns back to her home town trying to put away a traumatic past behind her. She is relieved when her family welcomes her with open arms, but equally nervous to begin her life afresh. When she meets her childhood sweet heart Blake, who has still not gotten over her and is facing issues of his own, she offers to help. Together they try to erase each other’s demons.
However romantic the storyline might seem, this book is not for the faint hearted. The book does have a graphical version of domestic violence and the language is profane.
Once you are aware of the context, the book is an emotional rollercoaster and very inspirational, a story of second chances and healing. After all that’s what we look for is’nt it? A beautiful book.
Raising Elle by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a second chance romance and a very emotional one at that. This is not your standard second chance romance. This deals with some subjects that maybe a trigger for some people. As a survivor of domestic violence reading parts of this story was hard but the author deals with the topic in a way that is respectful but also paints a very realistic picture of what it is like to be in that position.
I love the main characters of Elle and Blake. Both characters have so much depth that it is hard not to feel invested in their stories. Blake has also had a hard time in his past and when he reunites with Elle you just want to make everything better for them so they don’t have to deal with anymore heartache.
This is a very moving emotional story about heartache and heartbreak, losing and forgiving and finally healing.
Can Elle and Blake heal each other from their past so that they have a future together?
Savage Truth: A Dark High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I have really enjoyed getting to know a little more on Cole and Riley and the suspenseful conclusion (at least for now I hope) .
I highly suggest reading the first 2 books before this, the prequel and book 1, as it’s all needed to understand the dynamic and what’s going on in this story.
This like the previous brought the drama, the chemistry and the unexpected. I will not be giving many details as it’s best to read for yourself and I will not be responsible for giving even a tiny spoiler even by accident.
I cannot wait to read about the rest of this bunch (I hope they all get a story) as I would love to see things from others perspective but also how their stories go.
Healing Kiss by Amanda Uhl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is such a beautiful story. Lillian and Tristan are drawn together but fight so hard against the pull. They are a perfect complement to each other in so many ways. Can Tristan get her to let down her walls before it is too late? Can she out run those who would want to take her power for their own?
Corpse Pixie by Sinister Styx
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Rene’s twin sister was killed and he made a promise to avenge her by finding the murderer. When another body appears the same way his sister’s body was, he knows the killer is back. He’s trying his hardest to keep it together while working different angles. Rene thinks he is losing his mind. At night he keeps having sensual dreams about a beautiful woman so when he starts seeing her in the daytime as well, he knows it’s only a matter of time before he has a mental breakdown.
Belladonna is half pixie, half necromancer. When she sees Rene at the latest crime scene, she knows that he is going to be hers. She loves playing with him, making him crazy. They are kindred spirits. He lost his sister and she lost her whole family. She makes a deal with him, whether he agrees with it or not it’s happening. Belladonna will help him avenge his sister if Rene helps to kill her enemies.
I absolutely love this author! Their writing is so unique and interesting.Very fast paced and always has multiple elements. The author has a way with imagery, even though this was only a novella, it was packed full with detail. Magic, pixies, witches, necromancy, with the killer being a twist, you are in for an exciting ride with this read!
I’ll Love You Tomorrow by Julie Navickas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really good book! I’ve really enjoyed reading the books in this trilogy, and I’m a little sad for them to be over. I’m not sure which book I enjoyed the most, they were all very enjoyable and great in their own way. This was an emotional, second chance romance that I thought was a really good ending to this trilogy. I enjoyed getting the chance to enjoy this series and I’m excited to read more from this author in the future!
Healing Kiss by Amanda Uhl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Healing Kiss by Amanda Uhl. This book was so good and it had just enough of a different story line to set it apart. I truly enjoyed it and hope there are more to come. Its the story of Lillian who has returned to Cleveland because her sister, Hannah has become very ill. Lillian who now goes by Zoey because she is in hiding due to the natures of her powers. The organization that is hot on her tail is the one that killed her mother and she’s not about to let them use her or her powers. Zoey tries her powers on her sister but its not enough so they end up in the hospital and she meets Tristan who she knows can put his powers with hers and maybe save Hannah. In return Zoey agrees to go as Tristan’s date to a event. While they spend more and more time together feelings evolve and they want to see each other more. When Tristan decides to look into Zoey’s past will he find things he can’t live with? Read this fast paced paranormal, romance to find out!
Where Fire Meets Flame by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the very first book that I have read from the author and I was so intrigued by it. I was able to imagine myself as the characters in the book as I was reading. This book was well written and I know anyone else who reads this book won’t be disappointed.
As a private detective, Riley Scott has witnessed her fair share of the ugly side of relationships. She guards her heart like a fortress, but a pair of sizzling blue eyes threatens to take down all of her barriers. He came to her rescue through a blazing fire. Now, she could only hope he would not incinerate her heart.
Tristan Cain hasn’t been able to let go of his red-headed angel, or his promise to get justice. Fate throws them together again when he once thought it would be impossible, and when a daring rescue turns out to be the least of their worries. He vows to keep her safe. He’s not letting Riley out of his sight again.
I look forward to reading more of this author’s book in the near future.
Corpse Pixie by Sinister Styx
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a great short paranormal romance. This author has an amazing way of creating new and unique stories in a way that captivates a reader and doesn’t let go. This story was great with a murder mystery to solve, magical beings, and a romance that I didn’t see coming.
Belladonna is a pixie of the deadly kind. She has live a secluded life away from people and the risk of hunters. When Rene comes on her radar she sees her opportunity to use him to get her revenge on the hunters that hunt her and other paranormal beings.
Rene is suffering from deep grief over the loss of his twin sister. He still doesn’t know who murdered her but when another body turns up exactly the same he know he needs to get to the bottom of this. This is when he meets his angel. However Belladonna is a lot of things but an angel she is not.
What evolves is a story full of danger, secrets being reveled, and twists that I didn’t see coming. The end also leaves an opening for other books in the series which I really hope the author creates.
Last King by Amabel Daniels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Last King is the first book in the Legacy of Riverfall series. It is a fantasy story that follows healer Maren whose life is turned upside down when viscous creatures attack her village. As they have done in the past, the community locks themselves in nearby caverns to wait until it is safe. But Maren doesn’t make it to the caverns in time, and is now cut off from her community in a hostile world.
This is an exciting book, in a vivid fantasy world. As Maren leaves the village she knows so well, we join her in exploring the amazing and often dangerous world beyond! I enjoy the dynamic between Maren and Kane, particularly with Maren’s refusal to accept Kane’s claims that she is fae, keeping her wary of him. I also enjoy the focus on herbs and plants, essential to Maren’s healing work and her hopes to save her sister Thea.
This book gets five stars from me, and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series! I’d recommend it to fans of fantasy, particularly those interested in healing magic and fae.
I’ll Love You Tomorrow by Julie Navickas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This trilogy should be read in order to properly understand the backstory. Mitch and Lauren are a married couple that are clearly still in love with each other but they are trying to figure out what has begun to pull them apart. Mitch thinks that Lauren has allowed her restaurant Pier 39 to consume her life and leaves no room for him. While they are on a trip to celebrate the engagement of a friend, Lauren gets a devastating call that her restaurant has burned down. Although Vegas worked its magic for this couple, will this new life stress tear them apart once again? I feel like the synopsis gives away a lot of the plot to this story. However, I really enjoy how the things that Mitch and Lauren are going through are actually relatable to real life. I have enjoyed all of the books in this series. I find the characters loveable and real.
Consigliere’s Revenge by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Izzy is a reporter bent on writing articles for sale about the local Mafia in Las Vegas. Lorenzo is the Consigliere for that same Mafia and wants nothing more than to stop her in her tracks. When they collide, sparks fly but can they trust each other?
Opinion
If Via Mari writes it, I read it. Mari is my go to author for when I am in the mood for a Mafia romance. The way she is able to convey a dangerous world but make the women feel so protected in it amazes me. This book is no different. With this book, Mari is able to show her skills in bringing together people who shouldn’t make sense. A journalist and someone who routinely breaks the law should not get along but they do. I loved this book from start to finish and look forward to more.
Savage Truth: A Dark High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have been anxiously awaiting this next book in the Hidden Valley Elite Book Series, and Isla Vaughn has definitely made it worth the wait! Riley and Cole are at each other’s throats right from the beginning, they picked up right where they left off in the last book. It’s like it when you’re watching an amazing movie and they end right in the middle of a good part, cliffhanger!!! Well let me tell you, do not wait to jump back in because the fireworks are going to continue to go off with Cole and Riley! Cole has decided to pass off his feelings for Riley by convincing himself he’s not interested in her, but we all know that’s not true at all, now is it…Riley overhears the incriminating conversation and decides it’s game on! Who will win the battle of love and hate, Cole or Riley? Will Cole figure out who Riley and her Mom are and what they’re up to or will Riley be able to distract him from finding anything out? I am so excited to read the next book and see who will be the focus, will we continue with Cole and Riley or move on to one of the other characters? Read on my friends to find out, I know I couldn’t put my book down the second I started it, I have a hunch you’ll be the same. Happy reading everyone!
@Brandy Rymer
05/2023
Unexpected Entanglement by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
C. R. Alam has done it once again! True to her nature she has written another steamy, romance novel that follows in The Echo Series. Not only was I excitedly awaiting this newest tale in the series to come out I was so ecstatic to find out it was finally going to find a love interest for the fun-loving Chris Sullens, hotel mogel extraordinaire. I have loved his character since he was introduced in the first Echo Series book when he helped to bring our original love birds together. You will love the fire that burns between Chris Sullens and Rowan Kelly as they fight their obvious attraction to one another, and try not to make a bigger mess out of Rowan’s crumbling inn. Of course, when Rowan has Christ step in to play the role of her loving fiance will the fireworks go off, or will the two kill each other first? Read on to see what ensues…
@Brandy Rymer
05/2023
Punk by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Punk is the sixth book in the Popov Bratva series by Leslie Georgeson. As I have mentioned before, I really love this series, which just seems to get better and better with every new instalment. This is a stellar Bratva romance with an age gap OWYM, tension, chemistry, suspense, dramatic developments, family, secrets, sizzle, emotion, and much more.
I didn’t expect to love this book as much as I did, as I’m not always a fan of reverse age gaps as I am often left feeling disappointed- but having said that, Ms. Georgeson doesn’t disappoint here crafting wonderful characters who were interesting and endearing. I really loved Efrem and Miranda- they drew me into their story and had me invested right from the get-go. I loved the secret identity element as it added tension and intrigue to the whole story. Add in danger, dramatic developments, twists and turns, action, sizzle, and all the other clever touches- and it becomes a riveting read.
This could be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the previous books before starting on this instalment, as the previous books introduce us to recurring characters, and other interesting and pertinent information- as well as being fantastic stories in their own rights. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on meeting any of the Popov Boys!
The series consists of:
-Freak (Book One) ….. Zeke and Mia’s story
-Snitch (Book Two) ….. Sacha and Willow’s story
-Thug (Book Three) ….. Lev and Siena’s story
-Thief (Book Four) ….. Dom and Leah’s story (Dom is Lev’s twin brother)
-Beast (Book Five) ….. Adrik and Annika’s story
-Punk (Book Six) ….. Efrem and Miranda’s story
I really hope this isn’t the end of the Popov Boys series as I’m not ready to leave their ‘world’ yet. Excited to see what Ms. Georgeson has in store for us next.
Highly recommended!
Happy reading…
Thank you, Leslie Georgeson!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Last King by Amabel Daniels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is my first book by this author,and after the way this one ended, I definitely need the second one. The author sucks you right in with Maren and Kane’s story, and it’s so packed with adventure and tenacity, that I couldn’t help but root for Maren every step of the way. It’s a great start to a new fantasy series, and I’ll be on pins and needles until I get to read the next one. I’m so excited to see where First Queen takes Maren and Kane’s story. Highly Recommend!!!
Raising Elle by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1)
I’m in love with this book, these characters and knowing there will more books coming so I can visit my friends. I found myself reading when I should have been working, sleeping and cooking and would lose myself in the story
Elle is a remarkable and strong woman which everyone but she sees. She finds her way home after way too long, she felt like a stranger at first but then remembers the joys of living in the small town she grew up in and is able to renew old friendships and even develop new ones.
She rebuilds her life and several other things after several years of neglect and it’s inspiring. Her story isn’t an unfamiliar one, but it can never be told too much.
As important as Blake is to the story I feel like I need to focus on Elle. She definitely deserves the spotlight. Looking forward to catching up with her soon.
Last King by Amabel Daniels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh my gosh. Action packed, romance, twisted fates, mysterious pasts LAST KING HAS IT ALL. I enjoyed this book so much. The world building unfolds with the tale instead of all at once. Each detail no matter how small it seems it plays a part in unfolding the future of Maren.
Kane and maren seem to meet on the an unexpected twist of fate; but he tells her and shows her more about herself then she could’ve ever imagined. Fighting her growing feelings for Kane she succumbs and becomes a pawn in a princess game but what game does this princess play? What is she wanting to gain? Just the kingdom ? Will she rule peacefully? maren and Kane aren’t sure. But Maren stops at nothing when she realizes she loves Kane; no longer willing to do as told she fights to free him. But to her own demise ?!
I cannot wait for the second book!! I AM HOOKED.
Obedience by Liza Snow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first book I have read by Liza Snow, the unique cover and one word title drawing me in with curiosity. The synopsis brings mystery into the mix. Told from the dual perspectives of Cassandra and Chandler, this book will take you on a journey you didn’t know you were looking for.
Cassandra Blackstone, twenty-five-year-old female that has idolized the silk aerialist Chandler Moreau for half her life. Finally given the opportunity to audition at his family’s world class institute for circus acts she takes it. Chandler Moreau, forty-one-year-old male forced into returning to the academy by his father to attend auditions and then cornered into teaching his ex-wives class when she suddenly leaves. The one upside, he will become the talented Cassandra’s teacher, which he felt he should have been all along. Six months after her audition it is finally the first day of classes, her rainy morning goes from bad to worse when she discovers she will now be working for Chandler as his class assistant. After a terrible first class her best friend takes her to “the club”, one that draws visitors from all over to come visit. A brief discussion about her estranged Uncle Peter that is currently in jail, who she prefers was no more, she sees why the club is so packed. Monday night is the most erotic show the club has, the mysterious Maître. Quickly after being volunteered by her best friend to be his volunteer of the night for Japanese Shibari, Cass realizes who the mystery man truly is, Chandler.
Will Cassandra and Chandler find a way to work together? What happens when Cass tells him she knows he is that Maître? Is it possible to fully trust when secrets fill both sides? This author has such an incredible talent, the world she creates, the history she draws you into, and the characters you can’t help to love. Liza Snow has trapped me like a little papillon in a net, as I impatiently await the next installment of this series, Discipline, October 10th, 2023. I can’t wait to discover the next step in Cassandra and Chandler’s journey of love, trust, adapting and surviving their pasts. If they can.
Where Fire Meets Flame by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I thought this book was so super cute! It was a fast read and had a lot of twists and turns that I didn’t expect. I loved that there were both healthy and unhealthy characters in this story, I felt it was a really realistic way of portraying the world and dating culture today.
I really enjoy the way that this was narrated as well, it’s nice to know what all the characters are thinking but not have to read that chapter by chapter. It seems like that is the direction a lot of authors are going in today and I was pleased that that this book was NOT like that.
I would recommend this book to anyone who was looking for a quick romance but also likes to be kept on their toes!
Savage Truth: A Dark High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Savage Truth is book two in Isla Vaughn’s Hidden Valley Elite series. I recommend starting from book one, or better yet, the prequel as these books are meant to be read in order and the sequel offers great insight. I was really excited to pick up this book and delve more into Riley and Cole.. I felt like their story had been a dark and twisty rollercoaster ride and the romantic suspense had gotten to a point where I wanted and needed closure. I enjoyed that the first book ended with a cliffhanger leaving readers to pick up where we had left off, leading to more suspense and anticipation. It has been a long time since I read a series that wasn’t a stand alone, so I missed that feeling of needing more. This series has brought that so far.. I am happy to have had lingering questions answered and do feel like this is a series worth reading. In addition to a unique storyline with interesting characters, I simply liked how the story is told by both character’s perspectives. I am looking forward to reading more from Isla Vaughn.
Corpse Pixie by Sinister Styx
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A dark paranormal book that sucked me in from the beginning. René is hurting after his twin sister is murdered. He can’t seem to process the fact that she’s gone and doesn’t want to stop searching for the killer. He visits crime scenes where other women are found to see if any leads might help find the killer. I can feel the pain and loss René is experiencing since I’ve lost several family members in my lifetime.
Belladonna has been hiding for a long time to keep herself safe. When bodies are left in her woods, she must act to save her home. When she sees René, he intrigues her enough that sh starts showing herself to him in dreams. What does she want to do with René? Will they ever find the killer and keep others safe? That my friends, you will figure out as you read along.
The Innovator by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Innovator (WaterFyre Rising Book 3) by Nadia Han. This series has been so much fun, full of spice, romance and mystery. This is Grayson and Natalie’s story. Natalie is in town to find out why her father died and why he left her a building called The Prism. Grayson need The Prism building for his project at work and work is what Grayson does, non stop. He’s build a wall around his heart and emotions because of a previous relationship/heartbreak and he’s not about to let that happen again. When he meets Natalie he is instantly attracted to her but she pushes all his buttons too and not the good ones. Natalie finds Grayson very irritating but knows that he may have information about her father and this building he’s left her. The more time they spend together the harder it is to not succumb to their attraction to each other. When Natalie’s ex comes in to town to harm her Grayson is the first one to stand up for her and protect her. Will these two finally figure out they need to be together and will Natalie find out the secrets of her fathers death? This is a turn the pages late in the night book that I loved. Do yourself a favor and pick up this series and start reading!
Consigliere’s Revenge: Dark Mafia Romance by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the third book in the Sicilian God’s series and it is just as good as the first two in this series. This author writes exceptional dark mafia stories that keeps me entertained and turning pages to find out what happens next. This story is full of suspense, action, danger, romance, great characters and so much more. This is Izzy and Lorenzo’s story. Izzy and Lorenzo don’t start out on the best terms even though the attraction is off the charts. This is a must read to find out where their story takes them. This author will have you so enthralled in this book that you won’t be able to put it down until you get to the end. I highly recommend this book.
Last King by Amabel Daniels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Fast paced, amazing fantasy book that is the first in the Legacy of Riverfall Series. Maren and Kane are two great and strong characters with an amazing realationship going from opposite to best friends and more. There was constant action, drama, adventure, magic, monsters, and romance. I’m excited for the rest of the series!
Hero Complex by Isobel Reed
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the third book in the Bluestone series but can be read as a standalone as each book focuses on a different couple.
I love the fake relationships trope so I was really looking forward to reading this one and it did not disappoint!
The author’s writing style makes the story easy to follow as it flows nicely and gets the information across clearly. The author wrote the characters very well and I very quickly became emotionally invested in them.
I fell in love with both Ivy and Ace. Ivy for her strength in her grief and pulling through the tough times to continue with the ranch (and the sexism from potential clients) and Ace for his support and instinct to help which ends up getting them into the fake relationship situation.
From there, it was amusing and heartwarming to see the pair grow closer and overcome their fears and insecurities to get the happiness they deserve.
I’ve loved reading the stories in this series and am holding out for more!
Love Tools by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the first book in the Bluestone series which focuses on Lily and Jake’s story.
I was a little worried at first that this would be like a lot of other cowboy love stories I’ve read before but I am so glad to have been wrong. I thought the characters were really well written, they really shone through and found a place in my heart.
I loved Lily, she had the strength to start over somewhere new, away from everything she knew, and I admire her bravery in doing so. I loved her attitude and found her fun and entertaining, especially when around Jake. The chemistry between them kept me rooting for them to get together.
In addition to the great characters, I enjoyed the author’s writing style, it was clear and simple without being dull or patronising; it really increased my enjoyment in reading this.
I can’t wait to read more from this author!
Consigliere’s Revenge by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoy this series. This book is no exception. I love all of the ups and downs, the different lifestyle and the danger that these bring. Lorenzo was not what I thought. I expected him to be a thin wiry guy with a pencil thin mustache. Not a muscled tattooed strong male. He is the thinker, the solver a Puzzles and a strategist. I enjoyed getting to know him better, and watch him grow as the story rolled along. I liked Izzy (or Isabelle to Lorenzo) but she was not a fav until we got closer to the end. I felt she became not herself as she became more embroiled in the Larussio particularly Lorenzo’s life. Near the end she really showed her true self which was nice to see.
Corpse Pixie by Sinister Styx
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Rene has spent the last three years wallowing in grief over the loss of his twin sister, Cerise. He spends most of his time wallowing in self pity, drinking away his sorrows, and popping pills in an effort to forget his pain. For three years Rene has been trying to find the person who murdered his sister by visiting other crime scenes that appear to be murders similar to those of his sister. When he visits a murder scene where the body has been laid out with flowers and a circle of bones it feels as though somebody cared for the deceased person. Rene cannot help but feel as though something is different and senses another presence watching him. When he looks over, he catches a quick glimpse of someone with violet-colored eyes, but she disappears as fast as he saw it. Once Rene returns home, he continues to feel the presence and catches fleeting glimpses of an otherworldly female. He feels as though he is slowly losing his grip on reality and starts to question his own sanity.
Belladonna has been hiding in the forest and acting as a recluse for years where she can feel at peace with nature. Her life was a quiet one until humans entered her forest and desecrated the body, she had laid out so peacefully as a way to honor the deceased person. The humans came and carelessly tossed the bones into a bag and destroyed the shrine she had so lovingly created. When Belladonna sees Rene at the crime scene, she senses his grief and knows that he is different from the other humans. She feels as though they are kindred spirits because he has sensed deep loss and becomes obsessed with Rene. Belladonna decides that Rene will be the one to avenge her people and follows him home. She pops in and out and shows glimpses of herself, making her presence known to Rene until the time is right and she is ready to make him hers.
This was another delightfully sinister and dark novella by this brilliant and talented author. Albeit a brief read it packs a lot of punch and is beautifully written. The storyline is chocked full of suspense, danger, intrigue, murder, mayhem, pixies, magic, and the desire to seek revenge. The characters of Belladonna and Rene are engaging and intriguing. Both have a desire to help the murdered women but have their own ways of doing so. Rene is a shell of his former self after his twin sister was murdered. He has been slowly killing himself with booze and pills and has become obsessed with fining his sister’s killer. Belladonna senses his grief and becomes obsessed with making him hers. Rene and Belladonna do seem drawn to one another and have a connection. As their connection grows the two of them work together to try to find out who is murdering these women and dumping their bodies. I highly recommend this dark paranormal romance.
