Posts

Fire Meets Fire (Wretched Soulz MC #2 by Manda Mellett – Review by Shea Gilkerson

Fire Meets Fire: Wretched Soulz MCFire Meets Fire: Wretched Soulz MC by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Wretched Soulz motorcycle club is back with stories of their club members – this one focuses on the President, Chaz and the woman who he meets his match with – Queenie.

Chaz finds some of their minor parts have been going missing and decides to watch for a thief one night. As he suspects, he watches as an incredibly nimble and exceptionally silent person jumps their fence and enters the club territory. He pursues and finds the thief in their garage, not expecting to have a fierce battle with the much smaller fighter.

After realizing their thief is a woman, he immediately feels protective of her, despite both he and his club brothers recognizing that a male thief would have already been disposed of. However, Chaz chooses to handcuff her in the garage and speak to her tomorrow. Little does he know, this woman is nothing like what he had expected. When they look for her in the morning, they discover she has escaped.

After tracking her down and locating her, Chaz makes her an offer she can’t refuse if she agrees to help the club. When he learns about her story and finds she has a hefty bounty on her head, he has a decision to make – but when he hears his brothers talking about how they’d spend the money, the decision is made for him, and they flee.

The heartbreaking background of the badass Helo/Queenie is incredible and makes you feel so protective of her. Chaz and his brothers are shocked to find Chaz has found his old lady, and the chemistry that leads them to take a chance on one another keeps you engaged from the start. Watching the brotherhood of the club and how they protect one another is beautiful, in a world that can look pretty ugly. I enjoyed seeing StoryTeller in this book, as well. Looking forward to seeing the world of the Wretched Soulz MC keep growing!

View all my reviews

The Handshake Agreement (Book 1) by A. Akinosho – Review by Anastasia Dodson

The Handshake AgreementThe Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book was an interesting one. I picked this up because the cover caught my eye and the blurb sounded interesting. The story was okay but I found it hard to connect mainly because I just couldn’t get lost in the story. The writing style was different than I’m used to and I think that’s what threw me off. There was just soo much happening, one twist after another. It was definitely hard for this couple to get to their HEA & they really had to work for it. With all thay said i still thought it was an okay book and I will pick up this authors books again in the future.
Happy Reading!

View all my reviews

Catch a Cowboy (Match Made in Montana Series) by Rachelle Paige Campbell – Review by Kerry Baker

Catch A Cowboy (Match Made in Montana Book 2)Catch A Cowboy by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is such a lovely follow up to the first, although it can be read as a standalone. It is a slow-burn, clean romance story that centers around two great characters. Age-gap romances aren’t usually my favourite, usually because they feel like the whole story is about the characters ages. This book however didn’t feel like that. It felt like the story had been developed regardless of the age of any character which meant I was able to connect with it really easily.
I enjoyed the overall story of this book. It is a quick and easy read that was perfect for getting caught up in for a few hours. It is a great addition to the series and I am looking forward to the next.

View all my reviews

Italian American by Luigina Vecchione – review by Emily Jensen

Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues…Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues… by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was a continuation of Greetings From Asbury Park, continuing the story of Jack and Mariella – the soldier who met his Italian bride during WWII.

In the continuation, he’s taken her home to Asbury Park, and Mariella must learn all the nuances of American culture and struggles a great deal about the whole process. Through making friends in her neighborhood, to dealing with Jack’s mother who does not like her, to having her children and figuring out the American ways of childbirth are nothing like the Italian ways, Mariella thinks she finally has a foothold in this whole American thing… Then she’s called home to Italy, and everything she thinks she knows for sure about her life are questioned and new fears are unlocked.

The only problem I had with this book is how neatly it wrapped up. I wanted more story to devour!

View all my reviews

Greetings From Asbury Park by Luigina Vecchione – review by Emily Jensen

Greetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love storyGreetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love story by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is one of those books that I mostly loved because I just love historical romance novels. This is a sweet story about Mariella, an Italian with a huge family, falling in love with an American soldier during World War II. She’s lost so much already, and so when he goes back to America and writes about his engagement, she assumes she’s lost him, but fate has other plans for both of them.

While it was a very sweet love story that had a lot of stakes involved, I also loved how they showed the humanity of both Jack and Mariella and where they both seemed to want the both for themselves, their families and their countries and also showing the hell that war is for everyone involved, no matter whether they’re on the front lines or not.

I was so glad this book had a sequel!

View all my reviews

Vague Directions: Into the Woods by Debra Parmley – Review by Kerry Baker

Vague Directions: Into the WoodsVague Directions: Into the Woods by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a great paranormal romance story that is interesting to read with some strong characters. It is easy to connect with the book from the moment you start reading, and I enjoyed watching how the story unfolded. It felt like it had an element of fun the whole way through which made it more enjoyable to read.
The characters fit really well with the story the author created. Heather really had a great adventure. I always enjoy the books I read by this author. This one is perfect for those lazy afternoons doing nothing but reading. This is a thoroughly enjoyed book.

View all my reviews

Catch a Cowboy (Match Made in Montana Series) by Rachelle Paige Campbell – Review by Darian Vester

Catch A Cowboy (Match Made in Montana Book 2)Catch A Cowboy by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If you’re looking for a clean slow burn romance definitely check this one out, it can be read as a standalone and I started the series with this book but now I’m wanting to read the stories of our other characters. And honestly, I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen with Joe and Abby.
I’m not going to lie, at first I felt nothing between Stephanie and Ted, so I wasn’t sure if their slow burn was even going to work for me. But I did like the characters individually. I like that the author has us get to know them first before trying to push them together, but I do wish there was a little more of just them to help with their chemistry in the book. I did like that he cared for her, especially with the drama happening at school.
Overall I enjoyed the book and think romance readers will enjoy it along with the happy ending.

View all my reviews

Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book #2) by MK Harkins – Review by Angela Hayes

Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #2)Red by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

 

3 – 3.5 Stars

 

“The Big Bad Wolf is the Least of Her Worries.”

Red is the second book in the Modern-Day Fairy Tale series by M.K Harkins. It is a modern take on a classic fairytale- a YA fantasy, with paranormal elements, a touch of fate, drama, angst, fairy godmothers, magic, adventure, romance, mystery, secrets, a plot for revenge, danger, agendas, and interesting quirky characters.
This story might pick up from the previous book, Ashes- but we ‘follow’ different MC’s, so it could be read as a standalone if you wanted. But having said that, knowing what happened in the first book will definitely enhance your appreciation of the characters, story, and series.
So, join Lily and George on their ‘adventure’ – especially if you love a great YA fantasy, fairytale retellings, several intriguing threads, multiple Pov’s, and an overall cute story. If this sounds like your jam, then you will definitely want to add this to your reading list.
Happy reading…

Thank you, M.K. Harkins!

 

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

View all my reviews

Catch a Cowboy (Match Made in Montana Series) by Rachelle Paige Campbell – Review by Daryian Lucas

Catch A Cowboy (Match Made in Montana Book 2)Catch A Cowboy by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The characters are relatable, and their chemistry feels genuine. The small-town setting is beautifully described, adding to the story’s charm. While the plot is a bit predictable, the engaging writing makes it an enjoyable read. Perfect for fans of feel-good romances!

View all my reviews

Vague Directions: Into the Woods by Debra Parmley – Review by Shelly Kittell

Vague Directions: Into the WoodsVague Directions: Into the Woods by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a fascinating and intriguing story. I found the premise quite engaging. I love to dive into this author’s romantic suspense because she writes in a way that grabs you. There is action, drama, romance and suspense that keeps you going. The characters can be intense. Theya re in this story. We see a strong FC. I liked how she was fairly independent even with finding herself in a bit of trouble. Ransom did get to be her hero. It’s a book that gets your attention and you’ll enjoy reading it. You’ll feel every emotion and love the characters.

View all my reviews

Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Gillian Fawell

Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues…Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues… by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I so wasn’t ready to let go of Mariella and her family’s story so I was grateful for this 2nd installment. I have always found it fascinating how immigrants brought so much to their new homes especially in the mid to late 20th century so this story really intrigued me. Highly recommended!

Reviewed by @sparkinside

View all my reviews

Greetings from Asbury Park (Jack & Mariella Book 1) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Gillian Fawell

Greetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love storyGreetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love story by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story swept me away right from the start. Mariella’s story gives a true insight into how many everyday Italians and others around the world had to fight to survive during World War 2. Neighbours spying on each other, very little food, the list goes on. Do yourself a favour and read this book!

Reviewed by @sparkinside

View all my reviews

Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210680162-italian-american” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues…” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1712083018l/210680162._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210680162-italian-american”>Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues…</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21894769.Luigina_Vecchione”>Luigina Vecchione</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6598238823″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
This story continues from Greetings from Asbury Park and picks up 9 years later. The war is over, Jack and Mariella are married and ready to start their new lives. Even though is pains her, Mariella moves across the ocean to be with her husband in a country where she knows nobody. When she gets a heartbreaking call she returns to Italy, but will she be able to leave her family again? It was hard the first time, but a second time will be devastating. This was a great continuation of Jack and Mariella’s story. Even though this is a series either book can be read as a standalone.
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>

Greetings From Asbury Park by Luigina Vecchione review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60886985-greetings-from-asbury-park” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Greetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love story” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1650982037l/60886985._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60886985-greetings-from-asbury-park”>Greetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love story</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21894769.Luigina_Vecchione”>Luigina Vecchione</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6598210530″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Like many young people back then, our main character, Mariella, has to be mature beyond her years. She meets a nice young GI, Jack, who has very little time left to spend in Italy. He is about to shipped to Japan but they make the most of their time. Before he heads off they exchange addresses and a promise to keep in touch. Will they be able to endure the time and distance? I enjoyed the characters and how this story was written. The characters are very likeable and their story draws you into their world. I’m looking forward to the continuation of Mariella and Jack’s story.
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>

Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Shannen Kern

Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues…Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues… by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I wasn’t sure how much I’d like this book as I didn’t think it could be as good as the first one. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I was wrong because this book absolutely surpassed my expectations. I truly loved Jack and Mariella in the first book, so I enjoyed seeing their relationship evolve even further. There was even more emotion, turmoil, and drama included, so prepare yourself in advance! You may be able to read this as a standalone, but I think it would be a mistake to miss out on the background of Jack and Mariella. They’ve been on quite a journey before this story, and while the author tries to provide as much information they can as a catch-up, it can only contain so much. I highly recommend this book and this series, so pick it up and get lost in a historical romance for the weekend!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

View all my reviews

Greetings from Asbury Park (Jack & Mariella Book 1) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Shannen Kern

Greetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love storyGreetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love story by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a beautiful and emotional story! It is set in World War II which is apparent in the way the author portrays amazing imagery with their words. The character development is quite incredible as they are relatable even from a different time period. Mariella is a teenager, but like so many during WWII, she was forced to be very mature for her age. Jack is a nice soldier that gives her hope until he gets stationed far away. While my heart felt squeezed through many of these pages, I still highly recommend it. If you enjoy historical fiction with romance and drama, please pick this up and give it a chance! I am eager to read the next book in the series.

Reviewed by @shannlynn

View all my reviews

Fire Meets Fire (Wretched Soulz MC #2) by Manda Mellett – Review by Betsy Melano

Fire Meets Fire: Wretched Soulz MCFire Meets Fire: Wretched Soulz MC by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love reading anything by this author! This book kept my attention from the start, when I was worried for Helo when she was caught stealing and finding out about her PTSD. I appreciated the care Chaz, the Wretched Souls MC Prez, shows for Helo. As I was reading, I worried a bit for Helo as the guys find out she has a large bounty out on her. But the guys don’t disappoint their Prez or Helo. What a great story and a happy connection for two souls who didn’t think they’d ever find a soul mate.

View all my reviews

Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Kerry Carr

Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues…Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues… by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a very emotional story about one woman’s journey leaving the home and family she loves and moving to a different country to start a life with the man she loves. I didn’t realise this was a second book, however the author does an amazing job with the story that it can be read as a standalone and still appreciate and understood.
My heart went out to Mariella as she struggled to find her way in this new world, struggled to build relationships, struggled with challenges that faced her. Despite all of this is her strength and resilence shone through.
Even though you could feel the pain and sadness over her missed family and home she always tried her best to love forward and be the best wife she could be for the man she loved.
When she has to return home she is faced with reminders of her reasons for leaving. Faced with the decisions she had made Mariella is again forced to choose between the family and her home Italy or returning to the man she loves and the life they are building together.
I can’t imagine being in that position of having to choose one or the other.
This is a very emotional historical story which will tug at the heart strings but also shows how one woman’s strength and determination and resilience can change and shape their live.

View all my reviews

Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 2) by MK Harkins – Review by Karrie Sears

Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #2)Red by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

From the start I was hooked into the book. It’s a very well written fairytale romance and just a touch of suspense to keep the reader fully submerged into the story. I could feel George’s sadness and despair pining over a possible “one that got away”. Then seeing George open his heart to love made my heart swoon. Even though this book is part of a series, it’s written well enough that it can be read as a standalone also. I cannot wait to see what happens next for this book series

View all my reviews

Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Finn Cunningham

Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues…Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues… by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Italian American by Luigina Vecchione was a very much anticipated read for me! After reading Greetings from Asbury Park, I just had to know how Mariella and Jack continued their story! While the author does a beautiful job of connecting these two books, you could definitely read this as a standalone but I would definitely recommend them both! Emotions were all over the place while reading this, but it was absolutely worth reading through the tears! I cannot wait to see what else this author has for us!

View all my reviews

Greetings From Asbury Park by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Finn Cunningham

Greetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love storyGreetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love story by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Greetings from Asbury Park: A WWII love story by Luigina Vecchione, was a wonderful read. I absolutely love historical fiction, and anything to do with Rome, so of course I picked this up! A beautifully crafted story of love, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. The characters emotions and interactions were so vivid it was as if Mariella was sitting beside me, telling me herself. A truly beautiful book, that I honestly wish I could experience for the first time all over again!

View all my reviews

Greetings from Asbury Park (Jack & Mariella Book 1) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Greetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love storyGreetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love story by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is an epic historical romance which held me captivated throughout. The wonderfully detailed descriptive narrative along with the added historical details made me feel both immersed in the story and transported back in time to WW2. Main characters Mariella and Jack are so likeable and relatable that I felt invested in their journey. Mariella is living in Rome and has had to grow up quickly due to the war, having been denied an education she has had to care for her siblings. Mariella is also haunted by a horrific childhood trauma, and then the Germans occupy Rome. Along with the other Italians she then lives in daily fear whilst starvation and brutality have become normal. Mariella is dreaming of a new life when she meets an American GI Jack and despite the language barrier they have an instant connection, but they only have one day together before he ships off to Japan. Although they promise to keep in touch they are both aware that anything can happen during a war, but they will both try and get back together once the war ends, if they both survive. This really is as the blurb says, “a gripping, romantic, and emotional novel” and the mix of the storyline, the characters and the historical elements all had me gripped from page one. Life for the Italians in Nazi occupied Rome and the horrors they suffered really came across in the narrative. However, despite it being a difficult read, emotionally, at times the overall feeling of hope and the pursuit of true love makes this a heartwarming and inspirational read.

View all my reviews

Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues…Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues… by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a wonderfully detailed historical romance which kept me captivated throughout. Having met American Jack and Italian Mariella in the previous book I was keen to continue their journey, however you can happily read this as a standalone story. The storyline picks up nine years after Jack and Mariella’s fateful meeting in Rome, and now Mariella is ready to leave her beloved city to start a new life with her husband in America, but it means leaving her family behind. Having arrived in America Mariella has to cope with a disapproving mother-in-law and gossiping housewives, whilst Jack is working nights at the restaurant so she is not even spending time with him. Moving into their own house in Wanamassa Gardens is a new start for Mariella and she starts to settle into life in America and as their family grows the couple are hopeful for a better future. However, Mariella is soon called home to Italy having received a heartbreaking call, and once back she has to confront the decisions which led her to cross the Atlantic. Mariella struggles with having to say goodbye to her family for a second time but if she stays and does not return to America she will loose the life she always wanted with her husband and children. This really was a tale of “hope, sacrifices, and the unbreakable spirit of women who shape their destinies”. I was hooked throughout by this enjoyable, emotional and engaging story. Mariella and Jack are such likeable and relatable characters and I felt invested in their journey. The wonderfully detailed descriptive narrative brought the settings vividly to life whilst the added historical details transported me back in time. I felt fully immersed in the story and found it hard to put this book down!

View all my reviews

Greetings from Ashbury Park (Jack& Mariella Book 1by Luigina Vecchione – Review by

Greetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love storyGreetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love story by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

How beautiful is this cover ?! I’ll be honest this was a very hard read and more than once I put it down because it was just to hard to read and I had a tough time processing it but it’s a period in history that cannot be denied and this is based on a true story so I had to honour these beautiful people so I pushed cred through and was rewarded with a tragic but beautiful story 🥰😢and I reread the dedication and that was my inspiration to push through , thank you for sharing a beautiful love story , it gives me hope 🙏

Also one reads of German occupation in most of Europe but I’ve not read much of how Rome and it’s people were affected so this was also informative, despite heartbreaking

So we’re in Rome and the war is hard and nobody is safe from the Germans and their hatred of anyone different ….

Mariella is the oldest child in her family and they rely on her heavily to help and she makes many a sacrifice and she still has guilt that she is burdened with unnecessarily …..

The Americans then come to liberate Rome and that is when Mariella meets Jack who is Italian , they spend one night together and agree to be pen pals when he heads back to USA and as life return to normal their lives moon on Jack is engaged to Lauren and Mariella is dating Lorenzo and both relationships have their flaws ….quite frankly their current partners are quite shallow and snobbish 🙈 so opposite from who they are and their life experiences 😢

Jack goes back to Rome determined to find his Mariella and convince her of his intentions but I don’t think she needs much of it 🥰 this really was a love story that stood the test of time and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for theses two beautiful families that are now united in marriage 🥰

View all my reviews

Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Heidi Sturgess

Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues…Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues… by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this cover even more than the first one because I know the journey Jack and Mariella had to make to get to this point where they now are and the dedication had me in tears because it’s just so beautiful and I loved the picture of a smiling Mariella 🥰

After finishing Greetings from Ashbury Park I could wait to see what the future had in store for these 2 beautiful families joined by marriage 🥰

Ok so opening chapter is already breaking my hart but at the same time it reminds me of a life well lived of an intentional love and a beautiful family , it’s life’s full circle …..

Jack is back in Italy and has come to fetch Mariella now that her visa is ready , it’s been 7 months and the reunion is sweet 🥰 the farewell from Mariella’s family had me howling like she was one of my own , letting your children go is no easy task and it must’ve been daunting for her as well , new country , new culture , new language but she has Jack do he’s her calming beacon 😉

They move into their own home and start their own family , friendships are formed and despite strained relationships with her mother in law and jacks’ along hours at the restaurant their love remains strong and let’s not forget the meddling ex and the gossiping housewives 🙈😡I wish they would stop and take the time to get to know Mariella they’d realise how much time they wasted on being mean and appreciate the gem she is and the love she had for her family .

When her dad takes ill she and kids go to rime and Jack at one stage fears they won’t come back and I think it’s partially the fault of those gossip mongers and again their love prevails the obstacles thrown their way …..

This was definitely one that made me grateful for my family and respect the decisions and sacrifices Mariella had to make , another hard yet beautiful read and I just want to thank the author from my heart for being so real , vulnerable and honest and for sharing her family with me 🙏❣️

View all my reviews

Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 2) by MK Harkins – Review by Shelly Kittell

Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #2)Red by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I loved this one. It’s George’s story, yet also an angel/fairy love story (you’ll see). I really loved that concept. The ones helping him had their own love found too. It’s an intriguing story. I found myself right back into the fun of following George as he’s trying to get over his broken heart. The story is well-written. I loved all the characters. The details are so thought out and planned well. It’s such a relatable story even being a fairy tale. You just can’t help feeling for George. I can’t wait for the next book.

View all my reviews

Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Anantha Rusum

Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues…Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues… by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have not read the first book , Greetings from Asbury park . This book is a sequel where nine years after , the loving couple are in America . Mariella has left her family in Rome and she has to adjust to the new life in a new country. Jack’s mom isn’t welcoming either . Will she adjust to the new life ? This story treads on a familiar territory of people who move places and have to always go over that uphill task of adjusting to the new place , new culture and new traditions.

I did not read the first , but I thoroughly enjoyed the sequel . I might go back and pick up the first book now .

View all my reviews

Catch a Cowboy (Match Made in Montana Series) by Rachelle Paige Campbell – Review by Desiree Ottinger

Catch A Cowboy (Match Made in Montana Book 2)Catch A Cowboy by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ted is a man with a quiet demeanor and a story. When he was at his lowest, Hank Kincaid took a chance on hiring him to help with the ranch and has not regretted it for a single second. Stephanie is a woman with a plan and an organizational chart for everything! She finds herself drawn to Ted, but fears that their age difference might be too vast to bridge. When Ted’s sister shows up unexpectedly with her daughter in tow, Ted is thrown into parenting his niece for a couple of weeks while his sister transitions to Herd. When Stephanie agrees to help his niece adjust as her Kindergarten teacher, it is not all selfless. She’s hoping to get to know Ted better and to maybe find a way to traverse the bridge between them. Can Ted let go of his past to see his present? Or will the gap be too great between the two of them?

I really enjoyed this book. It was a good, clean read with a lot of emotions involved. I could not help but feel drawn to Stephanie and to root for her! She is literally, the sweetest and Ted is the kindest. Their story was a very sweet one. The town of Herd sounds like a place that I would love to live in, too. After living in several small towns, I could feel the nuances of Herd as if I was there myself. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series!

View all my reviews

The Handshake Agreement (Book 1) by A. Akinosho – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

The Handshake AgreementThe Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 Stars
The Handshake Agreement (Book 1) by A. Akinosho

The Handshake Agreement (Book 1) is a Second chance romance/ Age Gap romance that will have your emotions all over the place. The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat turning the pages trying to figure out what was going to happen next. The characters are developed and creative yet make the story come to life. This is Anne and Declan’s story. He had no plans of ever marrying her and yet years later he finds himself craving her. She is a realist and doesn’t believe in love, that is until he crashed into her life. But when he leaves her at the alter things changed. There’s a lot going on and at times I had a hard time following but I pushed through. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next . I’m looking forward to reading more from this Author.

View all my reviews

Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues…Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues… by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Italian American is the story of Jack and Mariella, after their marriage and Mariella coming to America. I did not know it was a sequel, and now I am very excited to go back and read book 1- where it all began. I decided to read the book just off the cover art- it pulled me in. The story begins as Mariella and Jack’s daughters are adults and asking their mother to tell her story of being a young Italian bride coming to America. The story reads like a memoir- very realistic and filled with details and feelings. We hear the first hand struggles of learning the American language, being a foreigner after WW2, and the feeling of being torn from your family in a time without cell phones. I fell in love with the characters and the story telling. I look forward to the prior book, and more from this author.

View all my reviews

Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy