Hard Lover by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Steamy and mysterious? Count me in! If only these two had gotten together much sooner. However, the way this wonderful author has them get together, apart and back together is beautifully written. The bar scenes, and the cabin scenes, the best one could read!
Hard Lover by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story certainly had me going with all of it’s steamy scenes and storyline. I am very particular with my smut, but this was absolutely a fantastic read to get my hands on! It certainly was a rollercoaster ride for between all of the things that were going on. The only thing that made me sad, was Noah thinking he was “wrong” for involving himself in the kink community. This had so much potential to do good, but it fell a little flat, but other than that the writing, storyline, curveballs, the set up were all done beautifully! I loved reading this book and I’m certainly going to go back and read book one!
Fractured World: Courage in the Apocalypse Collection by Maira Dawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I will be the first to admit this wasn’t what I thought it was going to be… however holy cow! What an awesome set of authors coming together to create something fantastic! I could not put this down if I’d have tried! This book took me to another place and time and it was definitely something that had me feeling many emotions! I couldn’t recommend more!! Grab it now!
Hard Lover by Deborah Garland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Hard Lover: A New Adult Romantic Suspense (Houston After Dark Book 2)
I have had the pleasure of reading this author before and I’m unsure how I missed the first book in the series but so glad I was able get the chance to read this one.
Callie had a tough childhood, thankful she was too young to remember most of it. She has a pretty good life thanks to her brother Grant.
Noah is Grant’s best friend and co-worker. Had a pretty good life except for one incident in college which changed his life.
Noah and Callie are so hot together. The sparks between them from when they see each other a club up until the end don’t let up though the do evolve during that time. I thought the time away from everyone was the best of those moments.
This book was not ideal for my sleepless nights. I read the first third of the book in one evening because I was unable to put it down. Now that this series is on my radar I will be keeping my eye out for the next book.
Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is my first time reading this author, and I will need to maybe try one more of her books to see if her writing gets better for me. This book seemed a little immature if you will, for a lack of a better word. It could just be her writing style, that’s why I will give her another chance. I’m on the fence on this book, but there is potential.
Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What is better than a modern fairytale retelling? When you give Cinderella (Ashley in this story) spunk and you make Prince Charming (Harry) a famous pop star. I loved this story. The characters were charming yet very real and the twists were intriguing. I definitely can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
Wicked Treasure by Melissa Erin Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely loved this book. Once again, this author has made an incredible story with dragons, swords, mysteries, magic, mystical creatures, and so much more. I absolutely find it entertaining to get back stories on all the characters and this did not disappoint, I love knowing them on a different level to understand the characters and why they do things or the reasoning behind something. I really couldn’t put this book down; it was so well written, and everything once again flowed into one another that it was easy to read. highly recommend this series.
Wicked Treasure by Melissa Erin Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It took me a bit to get into this book, but I enjoyed the supernatural/fantasy mix. It is a very detailed and thorough world. This follows Kayda and Harlow’s stories that are full of drama, friendship, and adventure. Some of my very favorite parts involve the sword, quite a few of them made me chuckle. I enjoyed how expansive the world is and always love dual points of view. If you are into the paranormal fantasy genre, this is the one for you!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
The Girl Who Escaped by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a very rare read that has me completely engaged from page one. This was the first book I had read from this author, but it is far from the last.
When Angie Taylor went on Spring Break with her 3 best friends, she never imagined it would end this way. Her friends were murdered, and Angie was able to just barely escape, but not without consequences. The police think Angie murdered her friends and she is shocked to her core, unable to speak on her innocence. A member of FBI, Brenda Reynolds, shows up to help figure out what’s going on. Will anyone be able to help Angie speak her truth or will she take it to her grave?
I read this book in one sitting! I really loved the relationship between the characters and the mystery throughout the book. Mark Nolan truly knocked it out of the park. I can’t wait to pick up more from him!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Wicked Treasure by Melissa Erin Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ever since reading the first book in this series I couldn’t wait to devour more. So the minute that the second book to this series hit my Kindle I had to download it and open it immediately. But what I was not prepared for was the for the second installment to be even better then the first. The cover is just breathtaking, the story was full of magic, mystery, adventure, friendship and so much more that I simply couldn’t put it down. The only downside to this book is now I have to wait for out author to write book three.
Notebook Mysteries ~ Emma by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was an interesting story of Emma who grow up in the late 1800s and after surviving the great Chicago Fire. Emma is observes everything and notices things that no one else does. This leads her to start solving mysteries and solve a crime no one knew was a crime. I did feel like there could have been a bit more character development as some things I felt like were skimmed over. Overall, this was a fun listen with a twist at the end. Don’t forget to check out the recipes for the desserts that are discussed throughout the book. I can’t wait to try them.
Unearthly Magik by Matilda Reyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a great first book in the Black Cauldron Detective Agency Series. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series as the first book was well written, but definitely set up several mysteries that I can’t wait to learn the secrets about. I loved the character of Ava and how she runs her detective agency business with her two best friends Nadia and Lucas. I love the relationship between the three of them and the dynamics of living together and working together. This was such a well written supernatural book and was fast paced and extremely engaging. I felt like the author did a great job with her descriptions and setting up the drama, suspense, and action, with a fun dash of humor and sass.
This was a cute adaptation of the Cinderella in modern day times. Ashley is a self proclaimed loner; our Cinderella. Harry is a troubled artist who found himself in trouble with the law (our prince). The two find each other in the most unlikely of places. The story was entertaining and fun to follow. I enjoyed listening to both sides of Ashley and Harry and the transition was very well done. The fairy godmothers seemed like an odd mix but definitely left for a potential sequel because lf them.
In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a wonderful read that was full of suspense! I kept trying to read super fast to see what happens next.
Logan is starting her new job at the Cascades Raptor Center working with the lead vet, Evka. She is fascinated by the fierce predatory nature of the hawks, owls, and eagles, but also how caring and compassionate Evka is towards the birds. Everything changes when Logan stumbles upon a dead body at the Center and can’t shake the feeling that it’s actually a murder. Unfortunately Logan can’t just ignore her gut instincts and the murderer decides she needs to be silenced. Will she be able to help crack the case or will she end up with the same fate?
I loved the amount of suspense and mystery throughout this book. I had NO idea what direction was up and there were so many twists that kept me guessing until the very end. I highly recommend In Plain Sight!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A modern Cinderella story. Ashley has been left behind with her stepmother and stepsisters when her father passed away. She has been moved across the country to help take care of a funeral home her stepmother has decided she open. Come to find out bad boy pop star Harry is about to start at the same school she goes to. Is she excited, indifferent maybe before she saves him from his crazy fans she could care less. Is falling for him in her cards? Harry is finally feeling normal when he is around Ashley but will that last or will things come to a screeching halt!
In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
In Plain Sight follows Logan McKenna in another action-packed mystery by Valerie Davisson. In this installment, Logan is a volunteer at the Cascades Raptor Center where she aids in caring for killers of the avian type on a daily basis alongside the center’s veterinarian, Evka. One day a killer struck but this time, it was of the human type and the Cascades Raptor Center was hit with a tragedy. Logan and her friends, Sam and Jean, teamed up to solve the mystery. Can they find out who did it and why?
In Plain Sight is full of relatable characters and feelings. It is full of twists and turns and when you think you know who the killer is, a twist turns you in a different direction. I did not want to put it down. I would not change a single moment in this book. If you are looking for a fast-paced mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat, look no further.
Hard Lover by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Really enjoyed this story. It was hot hot hot and fun to read. This story is about Noah and Callie and was easy enough to read as a stand-alone, however, clearly there is a story before this one as there are slight references to Grant and Avery’s history. Definitely want to read more about these characters and their friends.
Callie seems innocent but she is more reserved. She doesn’t fly her freak flag for all to see. Noah on the other had works at a sex club. He is worried about his freakiness and his past. And there is the little fact that Callie is Noah’s best friend’s little sister. Noah doesn’t think they would be good together, he doesn’t even think about Callie that way…much, until the night at the club proves otherwise.
Lots of angst and lots of ways to relieve the stresses of life in this story! Not a story to read at work and not for those young innocent readers. Looking forward to the rest in this series!
Reviewed by @shannonlovesbooks
The Mermaid and the Ice Cube Necklace by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I find it really cool that you never know what you’ll find until you start exploring . The fact that a magnifying glass was made out of a plastic bowl and water? I never would have thought of that. The artwork is adorable, and very colorful too.
Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Present for The Volcano speaks volumes about perspective and perceptions. Conifer was worried all day and just wanted to get out of the situation, but her friend did what they could to make the situation better. They prepared and took action, and while it was questionable how it would turn out, Conifer decided to trust her friend and help. And in the end, she was able to see from a different point of view. These stories are adorable. Mama Conifer T-Rex and her ankylosaurus friend work together when a problem comes up. Even when things look dark, they find a way. The artwork is amazing too. I love the textures and the colors. I definitely recommend both!
Fractured World: Courage in the Apocalypse Collection by Maira Dawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a fantastic mix of stories this collection is made up of. I was familiar with a couple of the authors when I started many but part of what drew me to this book was the chance to discover a few new ones too. I loved how all of the books has a completely different feel about them. It made it so easy to move from one straight into the next.
The idea behind this book – and the cause it is supporting – was enough to make me pick it up. The authors, and the stories they created, is what kept me reading. This is a brilliant anthology that I would urge everyone to read.
Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love when I get a new book by this author to enjoy with my children as they always connect with the stories so well. These two books were no different. My daughter loves these books as they are easy for her to understand and follow along with. She really becomes invested in the stories and requests to read them multiple times.
These two books were the first time my son has also shown an interest. He loved the pictures of the Dinosaurs and kept pointing to them trying to ‘roar’. This author has created two stories that appeal to the younger audience so well, and spans across multiple age ranges with ease. These are fantastic books and even I can’t wait to read them again.
Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins is a modern retelling of Cinderella. This is a fun, fast, clean read that will capture the hearts of readers of all ages. This is the first book that I have read from this author but I assure you it won’t be my last.
Ashley Adams is tired of high school and all the drama that comes with it; she just wants to move on with her life and escape her stepmother so she can have some freedom. Until then she’ll spend her time taking care of the dearly departed that pass through the mortuary her stepmother purchased. Love isn’t even a blip on her radar, but fate or fairies have other ideas as singer sensation, Harry James crosses her path. He has recently been sentenced by the court to attend her public school for his senior year or face jail time, and since he doesn’t need anymore bad publicity he chooses school.
This is a charming take on a classic story. I’ve read and seen many retellings of Cinderella and I must say this is definitely on the top of the list. It’s common knowledge that a social pariah doesn’t belong with a rock star, but fate and fairies have different ideas. This is a fun standalone ya romance that is great for a lot of different age groups. I can’t wait to see what the rest of this series holds.
Jake by Toni Denise
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
After growing tired of dating the same kind of women, Jake’s friends suggest this new dating app/restaurant. It is called Blind Dates. Daters are matched through the app, where if they want to, they can start chatting. Then a date is held at the Blind Dates restaurant. The thing is that while at dinner, you can’t see the other person. The entire date is held in the dark. The participants then can either agree to continue communicating via the app or meet in person. Jake agrees to this arrangement with his friends picking his dates. Jake’s first date is disastrous. The second date is very promising.
Lauren is working as an executive assistant to a major CEO of a corporation. This is just a temporary position as she works toward her goals. Lauren gets talked into the Blind Date app/dinner by her friend and roommate. Lauren finds her match intriguing but is not quite ready to meet him face to face after their first date. Lauren accidentally discovers who her match is when they send messages to each other while in the same room.
Lauren and Jake, a beautiful match. Lauren battles perceptions and her past while Jake fights for her.
I find myself enjoying the premise of the series. Friends setting up friends on blind dates. The dating in the dark concept sounds great. Count me in for the rest of the series. Fun and enjoyable!
True Colors: Book Three by K. R. Raye
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I don’t even know where to begin. This author has kept me in emotional turmoil for the last month. This trio of friends have been through so much. Some of the pain was too real. I don’t think I have been this caught up in a book in a while.
This series finale picks up right where the second one ended. Imani is in crisis after Marco’s accident, Melody is barely holding everyone together, and Lance reappears. Trevor is the loyal friend/brother to Imani until his wife puts her foot down. Melody is finally in a positive, steady long term relationship. Lance is balancing life after football, his divorce from Heather, and his ever-changing relationship with Imani. Imani is adjusting to her new normal and trying to find a way to trust Lance again. Life never slows down for this trio of friends!
Melody gets married but finds out that married life isn’t everything she thought it would be. Imani and Lance, each battle ghosts of the past to make a better future. Melody is jealous of Trevor’s growing family as she experiences fertility issues. Lance attempts to find his way back to football through broadcasting and all the pitfalls that go with being on the road. Imani experiences loss after loss. Melody sinks into depression after a tragedy, Imani almost loses Trevor’s friendship because of a premonition, Lance finally has a relationship with his one true love.
Let me just say that I laughed so hard when Erycah, Imani, and Melody all wind up in labor at the same time. When that nurse kicked Erycah out of Imani’s room, oh the tee hees!! When Lance named his son, I nearly allowed the tears to leak out but held them back. When Melody got wheeled away, I almost stopped reading. I was not ready for this book to end. I was not ready for the series to end. To the author, thank you for such an amazing journey through the lives of these three friends.
Hard Lover by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the awesome second book in the Houston After Dark series. Although part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I was not aware that this was the second book in a series when I read it and I certainly didn’t feel that I was missing any necessary information needed to enjoy this book. And I have to say that I really did enjoy this book.
This book follows one of my favourite tropes, that of ‘brother’s best friend’. I love the angst that happens in these books and this book certainly follows that as Noah and Callie keep their relationship secret from Callie’s brother Grant.
This book is HOT with capital H, O and T. Noah is a Dominant with barbell piercings in a very intimate place which add to the sexiness of the sex scenes.
I really enjoyed reading Callie and Noah’s story. Callie is totally badass and takes no prisoners and is not afraid to fight for what she wants, And what she wants is Noah.
This is a great read, which I definitely recommend.
Hard Lover by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Callie and Noah are amazing! Callie’s the girl who has had it rough, but she doesn’t ever let it hold her back. Noah is the one with a secret and when they finally give into their desires, their lives change forever. Callie is everything sweet and kind, and Noah is the rough and tough military vet that is almost never without his cowboy hat. I absolutely love them both, and I can’t wait to read the other books in the series!
Azreya, Aztec Priestess by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was amazing! Azreya’s journey to accept herself and save her people was absolutely beautiful! I love the relationship between Azreya and Tecuani, as she learns to accept everything about herself, the byplay between them was stunning! Her ability to discern trustworthiness was something that I think many of us wish we could have in the day to day, and the relationship she builds with Cocotetzin after she trusts him is amazing. Going on her journey with her, I found myself hoping for success for her, and saddened when things didn’t always go as planned. If you enjoy stories with a basis in mythology, I would definitely recommend this one! Also, if you enjoy learning words in a different language, the glossary of Aztec words of Nahuatl is so interesting and I loved being able to learn new things!
Emma by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I truly loved this book, as being an avid Sherlock Holmes lover and being born and raised in Chicago, I was very much drawn to this novel and all it gave. I loved the author’s writing and descriptive skills!
Emma was a wonderful lea heroine. Really loved her attributes and do or do do not, there is no try attitude. She was resilient and strong. A great role model in fact. I loved her quest for the truth no matter what it took! The book was a good read as the author really played on time frames and descriptive words. I felt I was transported to the time of this book and where it took place in Chicago. It was a trip I certainly enjoyed. The action fell short of nothing but the best. I was gripped and held and turning pages, felt I was aside Emma in her mystery beforehand trying to figure things out before it was too late! Wonderful, fun and light heart feeling read! I really enjoyed it! Look forward to reading more in the series and partaking in Emma’s adventures and mysteries! Loved it!
Great first book in a brand new series. I know Emma will lead many more mysteries that are at her feet, and strive to be the best intelligent sleuth that she can and is! Very much high recommendation for this must read book!
The Girl Who Escaped by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Read this if you:
*Enjoy suspense thrillers
*Like whodunits
*Appreciate books that keep you sitting on the edge of your seat
Meet the Author: Mark Nolan grew up on the California coast and has lived in the Pacific Northwest and Hawaii. He enjoys being close to the ocean and enjoys boating, fishing, scuba diving, and exploring. The first novel he wrote was a top 20 bestseller in the Amazon Kindle store and a KU All-Star.
Synopsis: Unfortunately for college students spring break must come to an end. Angie didn’t realize that the end of this break would be the end of forever for her three best friends. When the group of girls are abducted Angie is the only one to escape and the other three are brutally murdered. Angie spends the following days mute while others believe she murdered her friends and is having a mental breakdown. FBI agent Brenda Reynolds must investigate whether Angie it the killer or the victim.
Reader’s Thoughts: I have not read a good mystery thriller in such a long time. The Girl Who Escaped was AMAZING! 5 stars AMAZING! Mark Nolan kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time rooting for Angie and her truth to come out. The storyline was believable, and the characters were all great assets to the storyline. There were a few twists to the plot throughout that kept me guessing. Be prepared to pick this up and spend the entire afternoon reading because you will NOT want to step away until the very end. I can’t wait to see what comes next from Mark Nolan. I will also be checking out some of his other novels.
Available Now! – Published July 29, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hard Lover by Deborah Garland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I love a good forbidden romance, and Deborah Garland brought it with this book. This story is a brother’s best friend-love story Noah is best friends and a coworker of Callie Rose’s big brother Grant. Firmly sticking Callie into the off-limits zone for him, to the point that he never once thought of her more than the girl he watched grow up. But one night that all changes. This book captured my attention almost immediately. The chemistry between Noah and Callie was hot enough to set the pages on fire. I think this book is worth a read.
Reviewed by @awesomelyamber
