Sure As Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 4th book by Naomi Valkyrie the the Life is Hell Series. You can read this alone but there’s such a benifit from reading them in order. This time we get to learn more about Larkspur and Jaru. If you like imps, demons, adventure, and romance, this might be the book for you!
The Ghostly Diva by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another enjoyable and engaging romance with a paranormal feel to it in the ‘Divine Vintage’ series. It can be read as a standalone story, however having read and enjoyed the previous books I recommend reading the series. Justine Saunders is an Assistant Museum Director and she’s excited to have the opportunity to look through the vintage treasures of a recently deceased actress. Screenwriter Jackson Maddox is keen to finish sorting out his late mother’s affairs so he can escape the ‘one-horse’ town in which she grew up in. It’s when Jackson decides to ‘unload’ the old clothes to a historian at the museum that him and Justine meet. They soon get stranded together by a snowstorm and Justine is not impressed by the surly Jackson, but she also has the very real ghost of his mother to deal with as well. Justine is able to help solve the mystery of Jackson’s paternity as she discovers a way of identifying his “famous” father, whom his mom protected to her death. Meanwhile Justine’s job at the museum is in jeopardy but she then has the opportunity to move to the big city. I was hooked throughout and was kept happily turning the pages. I liked how Justine and Jackson’s relationship developed as the story went on. The characters and setting came to life through the descriptive narrative, making me feel immersed in the story.
Sure As Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
After Jaru was treated poorly in the past by previous “masters”, he decided to start his own business for companions to make sure they are kept safe. Jaru knows he has a lot to take on but with the help of Teivel and Oren, he can do anything he sets his mind to. When trouble starts appearing within the business, Jaru doesn’t want to be bailed out like always. He wants to prove to himself he can do this… alone. He hires Soren to keep an eye on the boys under his management.
Lark misses his best friend. Now that Jaru is always gone, Lark finds himself lonely and bored which is a bad combination for him. Boredom leads to mischief and mischief leads to getting in trouble with the other housemates. Lark decides to start hanging around the office with Jaru. As they get to know each other better, they start to cross over the line of staying platonic.
Jaru has very little self esteem so he is constantly questioning himself and as a result is questioning whether he is good enough for Lark. When threats towards Lark come to light, Jaru must find a way to keep Lark safe while fighting his own inner demons.
This book is book 4 of the ‘Life is Hell’ series and although it has less action than the previous books, this one was my favourite. Jaru is riddled with self doubt and anxiety making him feel unworthy which hit close to home for me. His anxiety gets so severe at times that he starts getting manic. Lark at first seems like a childish adolescent when you are introduced to him but as time goes on, he starts to mature into a caring, strong, independent and powerful being. I was happy that Jaru had a chance to find his happily ever after.
Sure As Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sure As Hell is the fourth book in the Life Is Hell Series. It is a polyamorous, MM, friends to lovers, slow burn romance with drama, danger, mystery, suspense, action, magic, paranormal elements, and a touch of humor. If you have not yet read the previous books in this series, I highly recommend that you do. Not only will it give you the backstory of the characters, but the series is amazing. This story focuses on the characters of Jaru, who is an imp demon, and Larkspur, who is a pixie, that we were introduced to in previous books. Jaru is just starting to get ready to open a contract companion business. Larkspur misses his best friend and offers to help him around the office so that he can spend more time with Jaru. As the two spend more time together the attraction between them grows. Of course, they must overcome some obstacles as danger looms for the two of them. Can they overcome such seemingly insurmountable obstacles and truly be together? I absolutely adore this series and the characters I have met along the way. The storyline is interesting, unique, and original with quirky characters that I instantly adored. I highly recommend this entire series!
A Cold Day in Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Love how fun and adventurous this book is ! Solid enemies to lovers without being vicious & toxic . Honestly , Jezebel is the 1 I’ve been most excited for through this series , & I’m so happy to read her story ! Love this romantic pair up in ways I didn’t expect . Definitely worth the wait !
Review by @lalilovely
The Ghostly Diva by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sandra L. Young’s The Ghostly Diva follows museum curator Justine, plodding along in her home town with the odd visit from a ghost, and Jackson, grumpy and mysterious screenwriter from LA whose mother has recently passed and so he’s come to the small town of LaPorte to go through her things and sell her childhood home. Jackson enlists in Justine’a help to go through his mother things, but soon realises he needs her help for much more than that. My favourite character was Justine because she’s quite relatable, the feeling quite lost and stuck in her home town. I recommend this book because it’s a cute love story and the added details of the ghost story, along with the flashbacks and the mystery, make it really interesting. ‘After dipping into real passion, mundane wouldn’t suffice in her life anymore.’ This was so relatable. ‘The hot, demanding kiss threatened to deprive her of oxygen. But what a way to expire.’ This was so beautifully written.
What Eyes Can’t See: Spicy contemporary fiction by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This agonizing slow-burn romance was enough to keep me hooked and turning the pages. I really enjoyed the themes the author addressed in a very open way so you could really think about what she was addressing. Overall a highly recommended read.
~ ~ ~ PREORDER ~ ~ ~ ~Goodreads – The Handshake Agreement (Book 1) by A. Akinosho
Bookbub – The Handshake Agreement (Book 1) by A. Akinosho
•*• BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE •°••*•
Naomi Valkyrie, often called a Firebrand Provocateur, brings her unique Autistic perspectives and curiosities to life by weaving tales of deep connection, mystery, and romance. She is inspired by being able to spontaneously create a thought that takes on a life of its own, opening up new adventures for her readers.
The Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy realms are particular areas of interest for Naomi as they allow for the vast exploration of magic, adventure, and the impossible while creating diverse characters that her readers connect with on an emotional level.
When she isn’t attending to familial connections, Naomi loves a dark, comfy reading space surrounded by the symbolism of her spiritual archetypes and her daemon/familiars, while she sips her tea and immerses herself in imagination.
The Ghostly Diva by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series of books and this one is no different. While each book can be read as a standalone, why miss anything good? Go read them all!
This is lighthearted humor with a mystery. Enemies to lovers and ghosts are also in this book. I love all the references to vintage fashion, as this is something that I’m finding myself becoming more interested in. You’ll follow Justine’s path of discovery and deal with Jackson’s anger issues. Can these two put differences aside and forge a path ahead together?
Great story and series! Cozy up and enjoy!
Barbara is a force of nature in her work, and as a lawyer she has to work twice as hard for her skin color demands for it. And when a blessing in disguise let her break up an engagement with her cheating fiance, life will show her a new side of her psyche.
Sebastian is an underdog that proves to himself and his world that he could do better, after a lacking past, his present is all he could ever dream. Oh but when you think you have all the answers, destiny comes and changes all the questions.
This strangers to lovers to co workers romance is full of life, challenges and soul seeking things.
The Ghostly Diva by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Have I mentioned I love this series? So well written, great characters and original plot lines! Justine and Jackson’s story is no different. I love all the twists and turns and just enough of a spooky element to keep you on the edge of your seat but not hiding under the covers! I look forward to seeing what is next for this fabulous author!
Reviewed by @sparkinside
Sure As Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book four in the Life Is Hell series. I am very disappointed… that this series is almost over! I love this series so much. What’s not to love? Magic, Supernatural beings, danger, love and it all takes place in an unassuming small town.
I recommend reading in order as the characters and stories intertwine with each other in the small town of Juniper Lake. Each story is unique though and you definitely won’t get bored!
Sure as Hell is the story of Jaru and Lark. Jaru is an imp demon and Lark is Jaru’s best friend. Trouble comes about, and puts Lark in danger. Jaru wants to push Lark away, to keep him safe. Lark has other plans and tells Jaru his feelings for him. Can Jaru accept Lark’s love and keep him safe? You must read to find out!
What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I don’t normally read any type of romance novels. Through the first chapter the characters and back story had me hooked on the story. The way the author took the time to research on how the characters would interact, shows in her writing. I enjoyed the novel and would definitely read more from this author.
What Eyes Can’t See: Spicy contemporary fiction by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
OMG… this book does not disappoint. I was hooked from the very beginning to the very end. The author does a great job with bringing out issues people don’t like to discuss, and having a good outcome. Highly recommend this series!
What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have read the previous two books from this series and the stories are so realistic and grab your attention from the get-go. This story has the same effect! This story focuses on Barbara, with a successful career as a lawyer and a family legacy to live up to. I absolutely enjoy reading stories on strong women of color making a name for themselves! Gives me a boost of confidence as I read along. Unfortunately, things don’t always pan out as they seem and she experiences her own instability and heartache. After flying to a non-refundable destination wedding, she has a chance meeting with Sebastian, an attorney as well with a mysterious background. Even though they have been brought up on opposite ends of the spectrum, something just clicks for them both. Their passion for one another grows as well as fighting for what they truly believe in. Another great read by Stout and cannot wait to read the next one!
What Eyes Can’t See: Spicy contemporary fiction by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What Eyes Can’t See is the Third Book in the Bold Journeys Series. It is a contemporary romance with drama, slow burn romance, angst, racism, discrimination, interracial romance, and self-discovery. Th story centers around the main character of an attorney named Barbara whose life has just blown up when she discovers her fiancé has been cheating on her. When she meets Sebastian, who is also an attorney, the two feel an instant connection. Barbara and Sebastian are complete opposites and that becomes abundantly clear when he gets the promotion that she was expecting to receive even though he is a newcomer to the firm that she is employed with. When she is fired from the firm for no reason Barbara must fight for justice and equality in a world full of white privilege and discrimination. Barbara and Sebastian must also fight to be together in a world that seems determined to keep them apart.
What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
When writing a review I find myself often saying if characters draw me into their stories and lives because for me if while I am reading I can be made to truly see what’s going on in the characters lives in my minds eye and can feel what they are going through then to me that’s a damn amazing book and an extremely talented author. This book and author had me doing that and more right from the very start. I was connected with and cared about both Barbara and Sebastian right away. They’ve had such very different lives but their inner core of striving for Justice is very much the same. There is so much emotion, pain, drama, steamy moments and even laughter that will have you turning page after page as that need to know what’s going to happen takes you over. Get reading now you won’t be disappointed!!!
https://www.amazon.com/review/RGJQ0NDX7KTBT/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_SRTC0204BT_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv
What Eyes Can’t See: Spicy contemporary fiction by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What Eyes Can’t See was a beautifully written romance book. The author pulls you in from the very first page. I never lost interest while reading this book. The world building and character building was well thought of. The story was very engaging.
View all my reviews
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/674288098
What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the first book I have read by this author and I’m glad I took a chance on it. I enjoyed the author’s writing style and ability to draw me into the story. I became invested in the outcome of the characters as I read this book. This book covers a sensitive subject and the author brought it to life in a very thought provoking way. Barbara is a strong, independent, lawyer whose life changes dramatically. It all starts when she catches her fiancé cheating. She gifts her destination wedding to her best friend, this is where she meets sebastian. Sebastian is a fellow lawyer and the chemistry between these two is off the charts. They are both looking forward to their new jobs, hers is a promotion and his is a new company. When they get back to New York they find out that he got the job she thought she was getting. It makes things very difficult for them. The story gets better from this point. I don’t want to give anything else away so I’m going to say grab this book and start reading to find out what happens. This was a good read.
What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 3rd book in the Bold Journeys series. I have loved all the books in the series so far and this one was just as good. Even though it is part of a series it can be read as a standalone and fully enjoyed.
This author does an amazing job of researching her characters and story before actually creating the book this makes her story and characters realistic, authentic and explores the struggles that people face in their lives no matter their age, gender or race. As a reader it gives you a deep insight and a better understanding of other people’s lives.
This story contains lots of emotion, drama, betrayal and angst as well as a romance which in some people’s eyes should exist. But you can’t help who you fall for.
In this story we follow Barbara. She is a strong black woman who has always fought hard for her position in life. As a successful lawyer she believes the promotion in the company is hers. Her life seems perfect until she catches her partner cheating on her.
Fast forward and she finds herself at the her wedding but it’s not her getting married. She gifted the wedding to her best friend.
As Barbara deals with all the emotions around this situation she meets Sebastian the connection between them is instant and they can’t deny the chemistry so they plan to reconnect when they return home. Could Sebastian be the man for Barbara all along?
Sebastian’s life hasn’t been easy either. Growing up in a rough part of town he has had his fair share of trouble and struggles, however as a successful lawyer his life seems to be changed for the better and when he meets Barbara he can’t believe his luck
When he returns he has a promotion to look forward to and a re connecting with Barbara however things don’t go to plan.
When the promotion that Barbara was certain was hers was given to someone else, it was a punch in the gut but what makes it worse is the person who it was given to was Sebastian and shortly after Barbara is fired.
Can the couple work through this? Will Barbara see it as a betrayal if Sebastian takes the promotion? Why was Sebastian given the promotion over all the work Barbara has done, could it be due to the colour of her skin?
As Barbara tries to fight for social justice against a world and a system that is trying to keep her down will Sebastian stand and fight beside her?
This is a real eye opening story about how there are still times when the colour of someone’s skin has an effect on their life and the way people view them. It shows the struggle people go through just to be seen as equals. It is a beautiful written and thought provoking read.
What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a phenomenal book! I loved it from the very first few pages. From the hard times Barbara faced to set the stage for the story, to the heavy layers of injustice at the workplace, and then add in the romance…just wow! The roles that Barbara and Sebastian played in the book and how they each faced various struggles, sometimes having those struggles overlap was fantastic. I just couldn’t put this book down. I really enjoyed it. So many components came together to really make this a wonderful reading experience for me. Well done Paulette Stout!
Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Kaitlyn is one of the best hockey agents in the business. She ran into Banks 10 years ago at the airport for her first trip to Florida to meet her clients. Now 10 years later she is being asked by her friend Roman to become Banks agent as he was just dropped by her ex boss Ed and Banks is not getting any younger, he needs the best. She decides that as a favor to Roman she will take Banks on as a client. However he is as hesitant as she is about her being his agent. Can she help Banks renegotiate his contract and keep things professional in the long run?
Sure As Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Sure As Hell (Life Is Hell Book 4) by Naomi Valkyrie. I love this series and I think each book gets better. I would recommend reading these in order so you get all the great details. Its the story of Juniper Lake a not so normal destination, it just happens to be a hot spot for demons. We meet Jaru who is an imp and a former contact companion who feels like he not doing his job up to par. Jaru decides to open a new business, much to his best friend Lark’s dismay. Lark is actually jealous of all the time Jaru spends on this new business since they are a new couple. Lark decides to mess up the business on purpose so that he can have all of Jaru’s attention. Will Jaru’s business make it and will Lark get all of Jaru’s attention or will Lark’s interference cause them to split permanently. Read Sure as Hell to find out all this and more!
Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Sylvie Stewart and Marika Ray is the second book in the Hot Flash Hookups series. I absolutely loved the first book. But the second one did not disappoint. This is one of the best series I have read in a long time. I love the more mature main characters. It makes the story so much more relatable. If you like Hockey romance but our tired of young 20 something FMC’s look no further. Another 5 out 5 stars from me!
Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
As soon as I saw this pop up, I new I had to read it. Sylvie Stewart is a great author and I was excited to see they collabed with a new to me author. I thought this was a great weekend read and I didn’t want to put it down. The two main characters are older than most of the MCs in books that I read and I loved that. They had a whirlwind meetup that ended badly. The feel good nice feeling turned into a long period of dislike. The banter between the two was fantastic and I enjoyed their story of finding each other again navigating their tricky relationship. I was rooting for them and was happy to follow them to their HEA.
I am looking forward to reading more by both of these authors and would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a good book to read!
Happy Reading!
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199683045-mood-swings-and-hockey-flings” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups #2)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1713980482l/199683045._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199683045-mood-swings-and-hockey-flings”>Mood Swings and Hockey Flings</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16856659.Marika_Ray”>Marika Ray</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6494257976″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Kaitlyn and Bennett met around a decade ago in an airport and lost contact, but now they are back in each others lives. Bennett was on the verge of renewing his contract when he was dropped by his agent. A friend calls in a favor to Kaitlyn when no agent was willing to represent Bennett. She’s at the top of her game in a field dominated by men. Sealing an epic deal for her newest client will ensure her the top spot. Aside from wanting to unalive him for dumb stuff that makes her job harder, these two are insanely attracted to one another. Of course dating is out of the question. Or is it? These two together were a rollercoaster of emotions at times but they were good together. Even though I haven’t read the first book in the series I plan on doing so in the near future.
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>
Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I LOVED this book! What more could you ask for? A RomCom full of witty banter and relatable characters.
I was so excited when the book began with a meet-cute! Only for things to take a turn after a single interaction. Ten years pass and the pair is forced into a last resort situation that both Kaitlyn and Ben claim to both hate but neither want to end. The banter between the pair had me laughing out loud.
I love the authenticity of this book. It wasn’t all rainbows and butterflies, but neither is real life. Perceptions of people change and forced proximity forges new relationships.
If you’re looking for a quick read with a show burn and forbidden love, this one is for you.
I can’t wait to read more from these authors!
The Better Man by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Better Man is book two in the Silver Buckle Brides Romance series. I was worried about starting in the middle of a series but quickly found that these books can be read as standalone novels. This was a sweet, feel good, squeaky clean romance that very closely resembled real life, and real life struggles, woven through with fun banter, and good humor despite those aforementioned struggles. These characters became friends, and with this authors writing the characters come to life throughout this novel. I loved seeing how much progress the characters made, how the characters grew, and came into their own. Laramee and Jamie definitely ran away with my heart. A wonderful novel about overcoming fears, obstacles, and redemption.
The Better Man by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Great story. Pretty cool the way the main characters come together to find a way to make things work even though they are on different sides of the situation in the beginning. They are definitely feeling something for one another but are they willing to cross that line? They both have walls up and are having a hard time facing the reality of their feelings for one another. I really enjoyed watching their growth in friendship and eventually more.