Posts

Boss’s Vendetta (Sicilian Gods Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Boss's Vendetta: Dark Mafia Romance (Sicilian Gods Book 1)Boss’s Vendetta: Dark Mafia Romance by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Salvatore is a fiercely loyal man that puts the mafia first…it’s his job as the don. However, his priorities are questioned when he encounters a beautiful doctor. Adrianna has a mind of her own and does not take kindly to men barking orders at her. However, her job requires her to do just that…and ask no questions. Imagine her surprise when the man she feels an intense spark with is none other than Salvatore. While that spark begins with a feeling akin to hatred, it quickly morphs into something much more passionate. However, Salvatore knows Adrianna is keeping a secret and, when it comes out, it can turn both of their worlds upside down. Will they be torn apart? Or, is their love for each other enough to help them through?

I enjoyed Adrianna’s character and these two were entertaining to read. There was so much going on in the story that I was sucked in! And, as secrets were being revealed, I was excited to see how it was going to affect them. And one of the secrets…WOW…

A great book that I devoured in a sitting and am looking forward to reading what happens next!

View all my reviews

The Victor (The Freemasons Book 1) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

The Victor (The Freemasons #1)The Victor by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ava and Cole have been living separate lives for the last six months. She has returned to the city to ask him for one last thing…a divorce. She believes it is time to put their marriage behind them. The last thing she expects is for him to say “no”. Why would he not agree to this? Doesn’t he see that she doesn’t fit in his world and the reason they married in the first place is longer an issue?

Cole is shocked to see his wife at an event after she walked away six months ago…and even more shocked with what she is asking him for. He was serious when he said his vows…and now needs to find a way to make Ava see that. Having her plan the Freemasons event is a way to get her around him on a daily basis…but will she want to stay when it’s over? And…when these two really start talking…will they be able to overcome the obstacles that prevented their marriage from working out the first time around?

I enjoyed both Ava and Cole’s characters. After what they have been through, I can see how pulling away from each other was a way to heal…but a lot was left unsaid and unaddressed in those six months. When six months of held-in frustrations and grief come to the surface, they are forced to deal with those feelings before they can even think about moving forward. They were going through marital issues that a lot of couples face and it made it feel that more real. I read the whole story in one sitting and enjoyed it.

View all my reviews

Grave Digger Academy II (Grave Digger Academy Book 2) by C.A. King – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Grave Digger Academy IIGrave Digger Academy II by C.A. King

Makayla and the crew are back for their second year at Grave Digger Academy.

This book picks up where the first one left off…so you need to read the first one in order to not be lost.

From the beginning of this book, there is still mystery around why Makayla is at the school…and why she can do things that others her year should not be able to! This year, her and her friends must participate in the inter-academy games. A win would bring funding to the school…but a loss could mean their doors close forever. If that happens, who will make sure the dead stay where they are supposed to? And…how will Makayla respond to having to go up against her brothers in the games?

I am really enjoying this series and Makayla and her group make me laugh along the way. Makayla is stronger than she realizes and I love that she is not afraid to go against the grain to figure things out. I will definitely be looking forward to the next book!

View all my reviews

Defying Ella (True Platinum Series Book 4) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Defying EllaDefying Ella by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ella has just spent time on tour with a guy who she had a brief fling with (and who seems to love making her life miserable), and she is looking forward to a couple of weeks in a cabin with all her best girlfriends. After going up early, she is shocked when said pain-in-the-butt rockstar arrives…along with a snowstorm that traps them in. In the days that follow…Jaren and Ella go from wanting to kill each other, to calling a truce, to opening up and being honest, to sharing time between the sheets. Jared learns about the way Ella truly feels about herself and her place in the world…while Ella learns about the mask Jared wears daily. However, when the snow is cleared and they can return home, will their truce and feelings last? Or was it just a way for Jared to pass the time? What happens when lines become blurred and lies feel like truths?

I enjoyed reading this book. The way Ella feels about trying to find her place and purpose, and Jareds anxiety and need to hide who he really is and how he really feels, felt real coming off the pages. These are situations and feelings that people have to deal with…and it was discussed openly and honestly. The storyline was good and kept me engaged from beginning to end.

View all my reviews

Battling Beckett by T. Christensen – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Battling Beckett: A Contemporary Step Brother RomanceBattling Beckett: A Contemporary Step Brother Romance by T. Christensen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Greer and her mother move in to the Dawson home, she is not understanding the animosity she is getting from Beckett (her soon to be step-brother). He’s hot and cold…wants nothing to do with her but doesn’t want anyone else to have her…and he doesn’t trust her. When she starts at the elite private school, she is immediately the center of attention (which she hates). She has also garnered the attention of someone who wants her nowhere near Beckett. Just when Greer thinks that things are starting to ease up…and maybe her and Beckett are on the same page…she overhears a conversation that breaks her heart and pushes her right into the arms of the person who is out to hurt her. Can she ever trust anything that comes out of Beckett’s mouth? Or should she just bide her time and keep the peace until she leaves for college?

This was a good story that I found myself immersed in from the beginning. I can understand Beckett’s wariness…but even when his eyes were opened after speaking with his father, he still held onto the notion that Greer was not the person she portrayed. I wanted to smack some sense into him! I was rooting for them…but I could understand Greer’s reservations and applauded her standing her ground and standing up for herself. Overall, a good read!

View all my reviews

Grave Digger Academy (Grave Digger Academy Book 1) by C.A. King – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Grave Digger AcademyGrave Digger Academy by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A witch’s placement in one of their chosen academies is an important day. What they don’t want to find is that they have been assigned to the Grave Digger academy. Makayla, who already feels like an outcast when it comes to looks and magical affinities when it comes to her family, is really hoping to get into one of her first choices. But, when she wakes up and sees no notice from an academy, she has a feeling that this isn’t going to end the way she wants it to.

After an eventful trek to her new campus, she quickly learns that everything at Grave Digger Academy is not as it seems. She quickly finds herself under the watchful eye of those in charge because she has more questions than answers…and she just keeps asking them. When a bout of boredom leads her wanting to take a trip into town, Makayla finds herself in a situation that begins to shed light on what is really going on….but also allows her to learn more about herself than her parents (or any teacher) ever told her. But…not that she knows…what is she going to do about it?!?

This story moved quickly through a year at Grave Digger Academy. There is a lot of information about the witching world given…and a lot of questions left unanswered. I found myself invested in Makayla’s situation and am interested in finding out what happens next.

View all my reviews

Jake (Billionaire Blind Dates Book 1) by Toni Denise – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Jake (Billionaire Blind Dates Book 1)Jake by Toni Denise
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After ending another relationship when he realized that the woman was only after his money, Jake is unsure of how he will ever find a good woman. When his group of friends encourage him to try a new blind date app, he is hesitant at first. However, they talk him into it…and even decide they will each pick a woman for him to go on a date with. After the first one is a disaster…he’s not even sure he wants to go on the second one. But, when he does, there is a spark. An impromptu meeting with one of his best friends reveals who the mystery woman is. He wants to see where things will go…so why does she seem so disappointed?

Lauren enjoys being an independent woman who pays her own way in the world. After a series of events (including a horrible roommate) ends with her becoming roommates with her boss’s sister…Lauren finds herself being talked into trying a new blind date app. She goes on the date but is still hesitant…until she finds out (by accident) who the mystery man is. She has a hangup with being labeled a gold-digger…and it is something that plagues her every decision. Can she let go and just live in the moment? Or will her fear stop her from exploring what could be her happily ever after?

I enjoyed this story. Both Jake and Lauren were great characters….who am I kidding?…all the characters in the book are great (minus everyone’s parents!). Lauren’s insecurities and hangups were felt coming off the pages…and I loved that Jake was able to quiet those fears over time. I’m sure I will be checking out the next book because I am now invested in this group of friends!!

View all my reviews

Hard Lover (Houston After Dark Book 2) by Deborah Garland – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Hard Lover (Houston After Dark #2)Hard Lover by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Callie has crushed on Noah for the past six years…and she would have made bolder moves in the past except for one thing…her brother. Noah is Callie’s brother’s best friend (and business partner). When they find themselves in close quarters for a week…they test the line between friendship and more. However, Callie believes bro-code is keeping them from going farther.

Sure, Noah is trying honor the bro-code…but he has a secret he has hidden from everyone around him. That secret can destroy everything he has and put Callie in danger. However, when Noah’s past shows up on his doorstep, he has to make a decision. Will he walk away to keep everyone safe? Or will he finally put his own happiness first?

This book is hot and spicy and I loved every minute of it. Callie is such a strong character and I love how she didn’t take crap from anyone! The story is quick-paced and action-packed…and I couldn’t put it down. I am looking froward to Zane’s story next!

View all my reviews

I Loved You Yesterday (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 1) by Julie Navickas – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

I Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats TrilogyI Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy by Julie Navickas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Mavis ups and leaves her high school boyfriend, family, and friends…she fully intends on leaving the past there and move on somewhere else. She leaves a note for Josh and confides her secrets to Austin (Josh’s twin brother). Austin keeps that secret for 10 years. However, as Josh is going through a divorce, he stumbles upon the note left all those years ago and wants to find Mavis. When he finds out the truth, will he still believe he loves her? Is Mavis ready for the slap of reality when her past shows up? How will she be able to choose between them?

Mavis, Josh, and Austin are all characters that feel so real! This story really pulled me in and held me hostage from beginning to end. I could almost feel the struggle between having to choose between the one you loved and the one you don’t want to hurt. Overall, a good story!

View all my reviews

Fairly Royal (The Fair Series Book 4) by Grace Grahme – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Fairly Royal (Fair, #4)Fairly Royal by Grace Grahme
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Philip is photographed (again) with a woman, he knows he needs to find a way to get the tabloids of his back. Trying to keep it uncomplicated, and with someone he enjoys being around, he proposes an arrangement with his best friend’s little sister.

Anna is trying to get her business up and running…but does not enjoy socializing (a requirement when you want to be successful). So, when Philip (who she has crushed on for years) comes to her with his idea, she makes sure to put her own requirements into the mix.

What starts out as a fake quickly begins to feel real. But, with the pressures of being a royal in the spotlight, it’s hard to decipher between what is fake and what isn’t. Will they go all-in on what’s happening between them? Or will they walk away once their arrangement is over?

This was a delightful story….a fake relationship built on a foundation of secret crushes and filled with plenty of steam. The dialect took a minute for me to get through but, once I did, it added to the ambiance of the story. I enjoyed Anna’s sense of self and I enjoyed watching her blossom throughout the story. Overall, a good book!

View all my reviews

Blood Sector (V-Clan Book 1) by Lexi C. Foss – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Blood Sector (V-Clan #1)Blood Sector by Lexi C. Foss
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After Quinn’s parents die in an airplane crash, she becomes the center of a war to marry her. As a powerful Omega, Alpha’s want her for her power and her sector. Trying to bide herself some time, she chooses to betroth herself to Kieran. When she disappears weeks later…it will be decades before they meet again.
When Kieran and Quinn cross paths again, he is determined not to let her get away this time. Where Quinn expects him to be angry and brutal…Kieran is actually comforting and willing to do what is necessary to help Quinn heal. When he learns the real reason she left, he is understanding. However, the sector is not as forgiving and she must earn their trust while becoming their Queen.
However, we learn that everything is not quite as we think it is…and there seems to be some other factors at play that make her question her reasons for being on the run for over a hundred years!
This was interesting story that drew me in from the beginning. I am intrigued by the Omega/Alpha world and this book did a great job explaining different concepts. I was engrossed in the story and wanted to see how it would play out. The end sets us up for the next book and a continuation of this world.

View all my reviews

Remember to Forget Me (Too Lost to Love Book 1) by Hazel Storm Review By Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Remember to Forget Me (Too Lost To Love, #1)Remember to Forget Me by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Addie’s first face-to-face encounter with Wes happens after a legal meeting…and it is that moment that she realizes that he does not remember her at all. When they cross paths again, she gives in and spends the night with the one she was in love with years ago. She is unsure they can have a a future if he doesn’t remember…and almost guaranteed they won’t have one if he does remember.

Wes was the victim of a bully attack 10 years ago where he lost a chunk of memory. Meeting Addie is the happiest he has been in years. But, what happens when an unscheduled trip home brings back memories he had forgotten. And who is being honest with him? Who can he trust?

This is a heartfelt story of young love, loss (in various forms), and confronting the past to heal. The story was captivating and held my attention from beginning til end. As the truth began coming out, it seems there was more to the story than either of them remember. You could feel Addie’s heartbreak, Wesley’s confusion and frustration, and the love they both have for each other. A well written book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.

View all my reviews

This Time Around by Jane Suen – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

This Time AroundThis Time Around by Jane Suen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Katie is returning to her small hometown for a friend’s wedding. She hasn’t returned in years…and the last time she did, she spent most of the time working anyway. When the bride sets her up with a plus one for the big day, she is not sure how to feel when she learns it is her ex-boyfriend that she hasn’t spoken to since she broke his heart ten years ago.

Chase’s is less than thrilled when his cousin lets him know that she has volunteered him to be his ex-girlfriend’s plus one. He is finally over her. His life now revolves around raising his nephew. The feelings of resentment towards Katie are right there on the surface…but she is not the same girl he remembers from ten years ago.

As feelings begin getting involved, they are reminded that their time is limited because Katie must return home. But, when a family emergency arises, will Katie head back to work or will she finally put her own happiness first?!?

This was a quick and easy read. The story is fast paced, as the timeline for the story is really only a couple of days. You could feel the love that Katie and Chase shared as teenagers…and the agony and regret Katie feels over the way things ended. It was a story that pulled me in from the beginning. I finished it in one sitting.

View all my reviews

Watcher (Star-Crossed Celestials Book 1) by A.L. Morrow – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Watcher (Star-Crossed Celestials Duet #1)Watcher by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars!

This was a great take on Romeo and Juliet…with more focus on the love story than the tragedy!

In Sin City, there are three types of celestials: Watchers (fallen angels), Demons (the offspring of an angel and human), and Messengers (almost like enforcers). There has been a war going on between them for years, with the Messengers wanting to rid the world of the other two.

Jace is a Watcher and his best friend, Cassius, is a Demon. While an unlikely pair, they have been around each other for centuries and have a special bond…oh, and Cassius is in love with Jace’s sister Hesper. Jace is looking to find that forever man for himself…but so far has found himself heartbroken and always wanting the man that’s wrong (or forbidden to him). He finds himself in the same predicament again when a new Messenger comes to town…Cyrus.

Cyrus is assigned to Sin City…but he does not have the same disdain for other celestials like his former lover, and leader of the Messengers, Xavier. Xavier is having a hard enough time with Astra, an archangel, who is over all the war between the celestials and wants peace. He is hoping that the arrival of Cyrus will mean another on his side..but that is not the case. Cyrus, however, is in search of peace.

The connection between Cyrus and Jace is instantaneous (and viewed as forbidden among many). They, however, don’t see each other as enemies…but as being on the same side. As they are falling in love, and a war continues to brew around them, Cyrus and Jace’s time may be limited. When Xavier finds out about them, he is determined to put an end to Jace. When the moment comes, will Cyrus choose Jace or will his loyalty always be to the Messengers.

This was an interesting story that pulled me in from the beginning. I found myself enthralled with the different celestials and the history of their war. I can see the resemblance to Romeo and Juliet…but I was too into the story to think about it at the time. I enjoyed Jace’s character…and the supporting characters were great. I found myself reading for long periods of time because I did not want to put it down!

Note: This story ends on a cliffhanger and Jace and Cyrus’ story will continue…and I am looking forward to it.

View all my reviews

Kiss a Thief by Marina Hanna – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

KISS A THIEFKISS A THIEF by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mia is intrigued by a stranger that comes in to the gallery during an exhibit. Although there is a spark there, she expects to never see him again…until she goes to deliver her favorite piece to its buyer (who happens to be the handsome stranger).

Dylan is enthralled with the woman from the gallery…and the best part is that she has no idea who he is. What starts out as a hookup quickly begins morphing into real feelings and thoughts of the future.

However, when a huge bombshell is dropped, Dylan believes that Mia may be just like everyone he has dated in the past. Is Mia really behind everything? And if she’s not…will she ever forgive him?

This book was an easy read that was fast paced and quite enjoyable. Mia and Dylan had immediate chemistry that wove its way through the entire story. The secondary characters were great and I’m not surprised that they will be the next book in the series. I am looking forward to reading their story next.

View all my reviews

Let It Be Love (A Mustang Prairie Romance Book 5) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Let It Be Love (A Mustang Prairie Romance)Let It Be Love by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story focuses on the relationship between Eric and Kiki. Eric is a small-town boy and Kiki is a famous pop star. Their relationship, while strong and sweet, is anything but easy. Imagine a normal relationship with its ups and downs…and now add some paparazzi, a meddling agent, and a rumor mill that loves the gossip…and you’ve got their relationship. What made this story enjoyable was that it set out to show you that with communication and real love, overcoming these obstacles is achievable. I enjoyed the sweetness of the story. It was an easy read that I devoured in one sitting.

While this may be the fifth book in this series…you did not have to read the other books to know what’s going on. I read it without knowing that…but I will be going back and reading the other books when I can because all the characters are wonderful.

View all my reviews

One Unexpected Gift (Band of Sisters) by Marianne Rice – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

One Unexpected Gift (Band of Sisters)One Unexpected Gift by Marianne Rice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Skyler is a new mom that has made the trek to Maine to see her sisters. She has spent the past few months on her own…adjusting to being a single mom, a soldier, and not wanting to face her family just yet. But, when she shows up on their doorstep, they welcome her with open arms. Offering her a place to stay while she finishes out her maternity leave. Bonding time with her sisters and daughter and working at their summer camp sounds like a great way to spend the next eight weeks.

Nick runs the local bowling alley and is so happy to see Skyler walk in. He hasn’t seen her in almost a year…since they shared two hot hookups. He does what he can to be her friend, despite her constantly brining up his reckless and thrill-seeking behavior. But, when a trip to the doctor reveals a secret, his whole life is changed.

Skyler and Nick’s relationship felt so real…like they could be two friends you know. They had their ups and downs…laughs and tears…frustration and understanding….lust and love. It’s all there. Reading the story of them navigating their way through a new relationship with everything else going on was entertaining. Skyler is emotional and determined to do right by Gabby…while Nick is flawed and puts his foot in his mouth more times than I can remember…but it felt genuine. Overall, a good book that kept me entertained from beginning to end.

View all my reviews

Death & Mirrors (All Things Dark & Deadly Book 1) by SF Benson – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Death & Mirrors: All Things Dark & Deadly, Book OneDeath & Mirrors: All Things Dark & Deadly, Book One by S.F. Benson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Evaline is a necromancer and has dreams of being a great detective…so when a mysterious stranger shows up asking for her father’s help (which he refuses), she is determined to get to the bottom of what is going on. This leads her to the mirror world where Dr. Death’s reign is killing everything there and will soon begin spreading to London. Evaline is determined to stop them…but it requires finding the Firestone (a mythical artifact…no biggie, right?!?). With the help of her detective skills, necromancer skills, and some magic along the way, Evaline will work hard to stop Dr. Death before it is too late…will she be successful? (Hint: You have to read it to find out!)

I enjoyed this book. It follows the same storyline as Alice in Wonderland…but has witches, magic, and dead people. I found Evaline to be curious and I enjoyed following her on this adventure. It does end in a bit of a cliffhanger…so I will be looking forward to reading the next book to see what happens. Overall, a good story that I enjoyed reading.

View all my reviews

Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Levi is asked by a friend to protect someone until their court date, he says yes despite being busy running the ranch with his brothers and taking care of his sister. However, when Bella arrives, she is not the docile, do as you’re told, charge…she is strong, independent, and willing to hold her ground.
While Levi’s brothers, Amos and Elijah, have no problems with her….Levi and Bella butt heads and have some pretty heated disagreements. But this soon gives way to friendship and an undeniable attraction (which Levi is determined to keep at bay for as long as possible). However, when danger arrives at their doorstep, will Bella remain just a job?!? You will have to read it to find out!
I enjoyed these characters. I enjoyed watching Levi open up his heart as the story progressed…and Bella started to feel that protection that she has been needing for so long. There was laughter and suspense…and the hope that these two would finally give in to what they have been fighting. Overall, a good book that I enjoyed reading.

View all my reviews

Truth or Kill (Twisted Legends Collection Book 1) by A.C. Kramer – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Truth or Kill (Twisted Legends Collection, #2)Truth or Kill by A.C. Kramer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sydney is invited to go to The Lodge with some classmates for Spring Break. What she thinks is going to be a vacation spent with hoity-toity privileged rich kids….but it turns out to be anything but that! She finds herself as a pawn in a game of Truth or Kill. Being that she doesn’t have the secrets, or want to know their secrets, she needs to find out how to survive when she is expendable to all the other players. She does find herself drawn to Kage…but he seems to have his own agenda.
Kage is a dark, yet somehow also intriguing, character. He trusts no one, despite wanting to have Sydney for himself. She must prove herself…which turns out to be difficult to read at times. Understanding why things have to happen and reading them actually happening is tormenting. However, the sheer ruthlessness and depravity of the game was captivating.
I found myself pulled into this story and couldn’t step away from it…even though it felt like I needed to at times. It is captivating. Sydney and Kage are both strong characters. Sydney is not afraid to stand up for herself or take people’s crap…but she also knows when to follow someone else’s lead and align herself with people for a common goal. Overall, an entertaining story that I enjoyed reading!

View all my reviews

The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising Book 1) by Nadia Han – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising, #1)The Mastermind by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Remi is a self-made billionaire with a past that has hardened him and has him living in a perpetual dark place. Audri, his best-friend’s sister, is successful in her own right and is working for Remi. She has always had a special place in her heart for Remi…and now she wants to help him out of that dark place, while fighting her own darkness. Their love is forbidden and blurs many lines…but also reveals secrets that could destroy them. Can they overcome the darkness…or will they be destined to dwell there forever?!?
First of all…this is not your normal brother’s best friend story…this is so much more!! There were so many twists and turns…and their pasts have pushed them to be the successful people they are today…but those same pasts threaten to tear them down and apart. I was sucked into this story til the very end. A great book by a new-to-me author. I will definitely be checking out what they write next!

View all my reviews

Love is Worth Fighting for (The Meraki Series Book 3) by Effie Kammenou – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Love is Worth Fighting forLove is Worth Fighting for by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third book in this series…and this one is all about Krystina.
Krystina plans to travel the world and blog about it (and hopefully become famous doing it). However, when her childhood frenemy, Loukas, tags along…Krystina feels like that plan is down the drain. As the two find the balance of being in each other’s spaces…they find themselves meeting obstacles that Loukas helps Krystina through. Add in some feelings…a missing grandpa mystery…and some good ole friends-to enemies-to friends-to maybe more?!?…and you have got this story in a nutshell.

There were emotional ups and downs during this story which kept me engaged the whole time. I enjoyed reading Krystina’s story. I have read the previous books and highly suggest reading them as well (although you don’t need to in order to understand this story). Another good book in this series.

View all my reviews

Saved by Love (Bellevue Bullies Book 7) by Toni Aleo – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Saved by Love (Bellevue Bullies #7)Saved by Love by Toni Aleo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Evan has returned to school after stepping away from his hockey career to focus on his mental health. (Kudos to the author for tackling this difficult and overlooked subject). He takes a position as a training for the female gymnastics team. This is where he meets Callie. Callie is a gymnast. She is a fierce character that loves those close to her with all she has. Callie has had a crush on Evan for years…and now he’s part of her team’s staff. She knows that she wants to get to know him and be a part of his life.

Their relationship is filled with understanding, support, and a love that most strive for. While coming to terms with his own struggles and finding a way to work on his own mental health, he finds that Callie is in his corner as his biggest supporter. These two melted my heart and I could feel the emotions coming off the page. This series has had many great couples…but these two are probably my favorite!

View all my reviews

Devil’s Breath by Lang Johnson – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Devil's BreathDevil’s Breath by Lang Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

First off, I highly recommend you just jump right into this book. Do not ready any reviews….you don’t want anything given away. This book had me on the edge of my seat ’til the very end….I had no idea which way it would go.

I’m going to try to do this review justice without giving too much away. Sera is a great FMC. She works hard, knows what she wants, and is good at what she does. As a hired assassin, she usually has no problem with the follow-through…until him! Cassius is a wise and kind-hearted man. However, he feels something is amiss with his meeting of Sera…he just needs to figure out what it is. These two have amazing banter, some H-O-T scenes, and the gamut of emotions (lust, love, hate, betrayal….you get the picture). However, at the end of the day, Sera must decide if she will follow orders or her heart? And how will Cassius deal with the fact that someone close to him has betrayed him?

This book was one of the best books I have read this year! It is filled with the kind of back and forth that kept me turning the pages until the very end!! It has been a while since I have been so enthralled with a book that I did not notice the passage of time….I just sat and read from beginning to end!

View all my reviews

Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder Book 2) by CJ Cartwright – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder #2)Body Checked by C.J. Cartwright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

We met Bridger and Tia in the first book of the series…but this story is all about them. Bridger is a playboy Enforcer for the team. He is knows for his antics both on and off the ice. He is on thin ice with the team due to his poor playing and needs to clean up his act. He has an idea that may get him some more positive press.
When Tia joins her best friend as she photographs a hockey team for a charity calendar, she is not expecting the immediate attraction she feels for one of the players. She has sworn off bad boys due to a past relationship that still haunts and affects her to this day. Bridger and Tia decide they need just one weekend to work through their attraction so they can both move on. What they don’t expect is the friendship they form.
However, as they usually do, feelings start to creep their way into their friendship. Keeping their “friends only” relationship gets harder and harder to maintain. When they both find themselves in trouble…will they turn to each other? Or will their rules keep them from seeing what they truly need could be each other?
This was another good book in an enjoyable series. I love a good hockey romance and this one kept my attention the whole time. Tia and Bridger are both great characters. I enjoyed seeing the characters from the first book make appearances. I look forward to seeing where this series goes in the future.

View all my reviews

The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

The Lie That BindsThe Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nathan has a secret that he will do anything to hide….including lie and bully others to keep the focus off of himself. But, when Holly finds out, she promises to keep his secret. What starts out as a farce to keep everything under wraps soon evolves into real feelings. However, the popular girl is not a fan of this and his secret is threatened to come out. Will he come clean or continue the lies to keep it hidden?!?

Throughout the story, Holly is compassionate and sees Nathan for who he is despite what he is hiding. It was almost heartbreaking how deeply Nathan wished to keep his secret and just how mean high school kids can be. This book dealt with with real issues in a believable manner and I was here for it!

View all my reviews

Burned by Fire (Firehouse 13 Book 4) by Danielle Jacks – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Burned by Fire (Firehouse 13, #4)Burned by Fire by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sol has been forced to retire due an injury he sustained. This has led to him turning to the bottle to to deal. Ember is new rookie firefighter who has looked up to Sol as a mentor…while also harboring a crush. When they bump into each other, Ember wants to help him heal (heart and soul). However, they have her job and their age difference fighting against them! Will they give their love a chance? Or are they doomed from the start to be nothing more than a spark?

I enjoyed these characters. Ember is wise beyond her years. She is passionate about her career and mature than most her age. Sol is older…but not dealing with the loss of his job in a mature way. There were a few times when I had a hard time understanding his decision making, since he was a veteran firefighter, but I’m sure losing the ability to do what you love will make you do crazy things.

Overall, this is a quick read that is written in a way that makes you feel as though you are a part of the story. I have read a handful of books from this author and have never been disappointed. Another good story that I enjoyed reading!

View all my reviews

Bake Off (Bake Believe Series Book 2) by Cori Cooper – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Bake OffBake Off by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cat has made the road trip with her family to see the family bakery and to (hopefully) figure out how to control her emotional baking. Instead of just sitting down and laying out the family history, CG creates a scavenger hunt that gives Cat and Robyn a more “hands on” approach. But, Cat is observant, and is noticing that there are lots of things not being said from different members of her family…and she is determined to figure it out. Turns out there is more going on than everyone is letting on.

I enjoyed the first book in the series and was happy to see Cat get some answers that will help her. This book is definitely written for a younger reader (maybe 10-14 years of age), but I still enjoyed it. And…there is a recipe at the end of each chapter that sounds super yummy!

View all my reviews

Flame and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

Flame and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns, #1)Flame and Crystal Thorns by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Chloe is an apothecary in the mortal realm. She is the one the townspeople come to for help. However, when a fae from her past shows up unexpectedly, telling her she must return to Faerie to help save it, her instinct is to deny his request. Her last time there she was forced into a war and betrayed….so she does not want to be put in that situation again. When he tells her that her sister is in danger, she knows that she must return to keep her safe.

From the moment they arrive in Faerie, Chloe and Quintus are finding danger every turn they make. Chloe’s selflessness, and need to protect others before herself, just might be her downfall. Can she save her sister, and the rest of the fae, before it’s too late? What does her newfound magic, and bond to Quintus, really mean?

This book leaves on quite a cliffhanger…so I will be looking forward to the next book to see what happens. I enjoyed the characters and the action just never seems to stop. Chloe never gets a moment of peace…it seems as though she is always in danger (sometimes from herself). I was engaged with the story from beginning to end.

View all my reviews

The Wolf’s Shadow (The Lycanthropy Files Book 1) by Cecilia Dominic – Review by Rosanna Ingram

/0 Comments/in /by

The Wolf's Shadow (The Lycanthropy Files #1)The Wolf’s Shadow by Cecilia Dominic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dr. Joanie Fisher is having quite the go in life, recently…which has led to the demise of her relationship and the loss of her job. However, a new venture has dropped into her lap in the form of her inheritance of her grandfather’s estate. A series of child abductions has Joanie’s best friend, Lonna, joining her as she moves in.

Joanie, who was researching CLS (Chronic Lycanthropy Syndrome) prior to her lab burning down, finds herself being sought out by locals to continue her research. Unfortunately, there are other who do not want it to continue. But, what happens when she finds out that her research has a much more personal stakes than she could have ever imagines? It becomes apparent that there are much more sinister things going on in the town of Crystal Springs than Joanie and Lonna could have imagined. Can they catch the culprit(s) in time? Or will they fall victim to the undercurrent of the town?

This was an interesting take on the typical shifter story. It focused more on the medical “why” and “how”, compared to other stories. I did find it a tad hard to connect to Joanie….not sure if it was her attitude of what…but I pushed through because the storyline was quite interesting. There were quite a few unanswered questions at the end…which hopefully will be answered in upcoming books.

View all my reviews