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Our Unexpected Hope by Michelle Sullivan – Review by Shannon Fowler

Our Unexpected HopeOur Unexpected Hope by Michelle Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

O.M.G. This book has even more feels than book one! In order to read this book, you should really read book one, Our Next Chapter, it’s not absolutely necessary but will make the relationships throughout the story so much better. Quinn is the main character in this story. She is the daughter of Karalyn and Dez. Their story is book one.

Quinn and Dez’s relationship makes me sigh because who doesn’t love a good dad and daughter situation. And then I have to laugh out loud. and often! But the real love story is between Quinn and Noah! Holy Hotness those two sure know how to cause some serious steam!

Quinn and Noah start off hot and heavy and right from the start they feel their connection. Their connection is almost too good to be true, but they don’t fight it. They love it and each other. Their journey however is not all rainbows and roses.

Sullivan must love knowing she causes readers to cry. Actually, this story was very close to an ugly cry, but Sullivan reigned it in and created an unbelievable heart fulfilling story! I wish I could give this story more than 5 stars.

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Our Next Chapter by Michelle Sullivan – Review by Shannon Fowler

Our Next ChapterOur Next Chapter by Michelle Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this story. The story line, the characters, the writing style, the adventure. I love it!
Karalyn and Dez, childhood best friends turned high school sweethearts, turned enemies?!? But can they get back what was lost?!

There was a lot of heart ache in this story but from that heartache came their “next chapter”. Sullivan let Karalyn know every emotion possible. In turn we as the reader got to experience every emotion as well. While Karalyn learned how to live with heart break we felt her every pain. The love. We felt her anger. And denial. Every emotion Karalyn experienced thanks to Dez we felt it too.

This book was easy to follow and read. The villains were not the usual villains, but they were still easy to hate. And Karalyn proves to herself that she really doesn’t need Dez.

Sullivan breaks your heart during this story and then just as easily puts it together again.

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Summer Fling by Tarrah Anders – Review by Shannon Fowler

Summer FlingSummer Fling by Tarrah Anders
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is based in the small town of Sweeny. Emma and her friends own and run a clothing store. They grew up in Sweeny. They live there. The summer time brings tourists to not only their store but the town as well. But only until summer is over. Relationships don’t start in the summer, flings do, because everyone knows tourists leave. Emma has been burned once before by a summer relationship that ended up being a fling.

Royce comes to town with his friends to set up a veterinarian office. They come to town at the beginning of summer like the rest of the tourists do but they plan on staying.

Now Royce and Emma have to decide if a relationship is something they can do. And then as if the summer time isn’t enough of pressure for these two, Anders throws in a couple of crazy little twists.

This is my first book by Anders and I am happy I took a chance on a new to me author! Cute story, good characters, different story-line. This book was easy to read, easy to understand and follow. I can recommend this story and look forward to reading more from Anders.

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Beneath: Two Book Bookset by Shandi Boyes – Review by Shannon Fowler

Beneath: Two Book BoxsetBeneath: Two Book Boxset by Shandi Boyes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Beneath the Secrets is the first part of Hugo’s story which includes many flash backs to high school and his forever crush on Ava. We first met Hugo in the Enigma series but this box set can be read without reading that series.

Oh Shandi Boyes! What have you done to my heart!?! Beneath the Secrets? Oh no you just created more secrets! Oh and that ending?! I have said this before in my reviews, there are some books that just make you say WTF did I just read…so yeah, right now, Shandi Boyes what the actual…did I just read!?!

Hugo’s story is huge! It starts when he was in high school, crushing on his little sister’s best friend, Ava. But being a player, he kept innocent Ava at arm’s length. Ava was raised by overly strict parents, with a father that bordered on mental abuse. Ava and Hugo’s friendship never falters over the years. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, at least for these two it does. However, lack of true communication, secrets and jealousy keeps them from getting a happily ever after, at least for now.

“I want a man who has no qualms in showing his affection even with a house full of spectators. A man devoted solely and entirely to me. That is what I want and crave. That is what I deserve.”

And then the second part of Hugo’s story is Beneath the Sheets. Shandi Boyes has given us another book boyfriend! We learn that our main character, Hugo, is protective, thoughtful, caring, sexy, strong and so much more. Beneath the Sheets is the conclusion to Beneath the Secrets, which makes this the perfect boxed set. Hugo made some choices in his life and we learn just how devastated he is from the choices he felt he had to make in his past. Those choices, of course, didn’t just devastate him but they devastated those he loved as well. His mother and father, his siblings, and Ava. Ava is the love of his life. And everything he does, he does for her. What he doesn’t know is that his choices, while made with the purest of heart and good intentions, crushed Ava. He also doesn’t know that Ava is waiting and praying for his return. A return that is a long time coming.

“It shouldn’t matter if it is a week or a year, if they are who your heart desires, that’s all that matters.”

I believe all readers of romance novels are looking for the kind of love Hugo has for Ava. Time doesn’t matter. Distance is no object. Nothing will stop Hugo from finding his happily ever after, even if he believes he doesn’t deserve it.

Shandi Boyes has a writing style that makes you want to just keep reading. The characters in her other books have become your friends, your family even. You want to be them. Beneath the Sheets is no different. Every one of her stories have had me turning page after page, non-stop! I loved that Ava wasn’t a weak female. Yes, she loved Hugo with her whole heart, yes she was crushed. Did she roll over and die when he made his choices? No, not quite. She needed to live and Shandi Boyes made sure she did. The male characters are swoon-worthy while the females are determined and strong. We all want someone to love while being loved right back and Ava is no different.

Definitely recommend this boxed set!

Reviewed by @shannonlovesbooks

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Every Breath You Take (Bayou Devils MC Book 3) by A.M. Myers – Review by Shannon Fowler

Every Breath You Take (Bayou Devils MC 3)Every Breath You Take by A.M. Myers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

How have I never read a book by A.M. Myers!?!?

O.M.G. this book is everything! Everything good, everything bad and everything in between! And this is book 3!?! Is this a standalone? It sure seemed that way to me. I loved the characters of Tate and Linc. Oh how my heart broke for these characters, especially while Linc was a teen and when Tate needed a friend the most.

Tatum also known as Tate, and Lincoln are so super hot together. They meet under crappy circumstances and become instant soul mates. They both seem to take a chance on each other. And holy smokes is their connection good.

The twist towards the end I never thought would actually happen! This book is not for the faint of heart. Which means triggers for those under certain situations.

This book is an amazing read! If all Myers books are like this then sign me up! A definite one click!

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Phoenix Rising: A Fortis Security Novel Book 7 by Maddie Wade – Review by Shannon Fowler

Phoenix Rising: A Fortis Security Novel Book 7 (Fortis Security Series)Phoenix Rising: A Fortis Security Novel Book 7 by Maddie Wade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Imagine my surprise when I finished this book and found out that it was book 7 in the series. The beginning few chapters referenced characters that were clearing introduced in other books and I had my suspicions that I was missing something. However, I was able to understand the story line, so I continued reading. I could tell which characters were clearly the good guys and which ones needed to go. Other reviews say that this can be read as a stand-alone, I don’t really agree because you don’t get the back story of Rhea Winslow. Even Megan’s back story isn’t told in this book. So, I definitely think the books should be read in order. I do think this book is worth the price. Since this is my first book by Maddie Wade I am intrigued enough to read the others in this series.

This story was adventurous and dangerous and sexy. Daniel and Megan are hot together. I am not sure if these two are in the other books but wow they are good in this one. The other characters, the rest of the Fortis Security team, are amazing, entertaining, loveable. I know I am going to read the rest of this series. You should too!

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Georgia Pine (Southern Promises #3) by K.G. Fletcher – Review by Shannon Fowler

Georgia Pine (Southern Promises #3)Georgia Pine by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Georgia Pine is book 3 in the Southern Promises series and is by far my favorite! This story is about second chances and about never giving up. I love that while this book is part of a series it can be read as a stand-alone. Each story is about a different couple. Georgia Pine is about Tim and Jessica. Their first encounter is so funny to the mom in me. Who doesn’t need a self-imposed time out?! Having four children under 7 myself, this mom’s situation stuck a chord with me. Luckily my gardener was my husband! Sorry, I digress.

K.G. Fletcher has a writing style that keeps me entertained. While some parts of the story were clearly fictional, where a reader could escape, like surviving a divorce with enough money to not have to work or worry! Other parts hit home, making a reader able to relate to the characters, hiding away from an embarrassing situation. What a character Tim is! Big, strong, yummy, determined, dedicated Tim. And Jessica, sweet, caring, beautiful, funny…I may have a slight girl crush!

I enjoyed the ride these two take trying to get to their happily even after. Definitely recommend this book.

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Just Exes by Charity Ferrell – Review by Shannon Fowler

Just ExesJust Exes by Charity Ferrell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Maybe that’s when you know your love for someone is real. You’d gladly take every ounce of their pain and lift it onto your shoulders. You’d rather be the one to suffer, the one taking each stab to the heart, than watch them hurt. Loving someone means their pain is your pain, and you’re there to carry them when they’re down.”

Charity Ferrell surprises me every time I read one of her books. She has written a story with twists that you just don’t see coming. A story that wraps you up and keeps you turning the pages.
Lauren is the female main character who is funny, strong and seems a little down on her luck, at least in the beginning. She is tough and loves hard. She thinks of others and wears her feelings on her sleeve. Gage is the male main character who is also funny, tough and loves hard. And he’s holding a grudge. Lauren broke Gage’s heart just after they graduated high school and the way Ferrell writes, we feel every ache.

I love this second chance story. I love the secrets they have been kept but the consequences from those secrets ripped me open. This story had some major heartache! Luckily Ferrell likes happily ever afters as much as I do!

This story wasn’t all doom and gloom, there were time when I actually laughed out loud. The situation with the Sierra is hilarious:

“I’ve never wanted to tackle someone so hard in my life.”

Another highly recommended story.

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Casstiel; Born of Lightning: Dragon Shifter (Dragonkind ~ 52 Realms) by Sheri-Lynn Marean – Review by Shannon Fowler

Casstiel; Born of Lightning: Dragon Shifter (Dragonkind ~ 52 Realms)Casstiel; Born of Lightning: Dragon Shifter by Sheri-Lynn Marean
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a paranormal story that is book 2 in the Dragonkind ~ 52 Realms series. In the beginning of the story it was hard for me to read, as I had to learn the characters and their situations, but I guess that’s what happens when you start a series with book 2. I did end up loving this story because, well…dragon shifters are amazing! Marean makes me want to read book 1 and any other books she writes in this series!

Ashara and Casstiel are two characters who have a connection with each other but don’t understand it. Casstiel was supposed to be mated with Maya but after her death he was stuck and couldn’t follow her to the afterlife. Thanks to the connection with Ashara. Casstiel planned to severe that connection but again fate had other plans. The pain and suffering that these main two characters go through is heartbreaking and sad. This story wasn’t all sadness. Casstiel’s daughter Skye is the perfect teenager. Not quite an adult but not quite a kid anymore. Her attitude, loneliness and confusion was spot on!

There are many other characters in this book which leads me to thinking and hoping that there will be many Dragon shifters in my future! I enjoyed learning about this world and their powers. Marean made it easy for me to become a dragon shifter fan!

Review by @shannonlovesbooks
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Moments that Define Us by Amy McKinley – Review by Shannon Fowler

Moments That Define Us (Gray Ghost #0.5)Moments That Define Us by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the prequel to the Gray Ghost series. I actually read the first two books in the series before this novella. I am loving this series. This story tells about the Gray Ghost characters when they were kids and what lead them to the choices they are making as adults.

This story is hard to read in that the kids are homeless and the ones that do have a home are being abused. The story flows and you can almost tell that something bad is going to happen, but you just aren’t sure until it does happen. Little do they realize that the bad will lead to the one opportunity they need to be great.

I recommend this story before you start the Gray Ghost series or at any time during it. Looking forward to reading more about these characters.

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Nikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance by Shandi Boyes – Review by Shannon Fowler

Nikolai: A Mafia Prince RomanceNikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance by Shandi Boyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Holy hotness!

You never know what you’re going to get when you read Shandi Boyes’ stories, but you can be sure you are going to get one heck of a story. One that will tease you, one that will break your heart and put it back together, one that will take you on an adventure like you have never been on before. Nikolai is no less. In fact, Nikolai is so much more. So much in fact that Shandi Boyes couldn’t fit him into one book!

I love that this story has a few hidden details. We don’t learn everything about Nikolai and Justine. Boyes gives us the details slowly over the course of the story. Which I am sure leads to the next book. I do wish we could have learned more details about Justine’s past. I get the feeling that it’s bad, but maybe that’s why Boyes is sparing the readers from that horror.

This story is not for the faint of heart or the under 18 reader. There are swear words and sexy situations. There’s violence and even more sex. The story is easy to read in that it flows well. No crazy flash backs, no crazy exes screwing everything up. There is one hot alpha telling us what he wants. And boy oh boy does he get it!

The ending with Nikolai’s brilliant plan to make everything right is beyond awesome! That third one! Oh my! What an ending! I am so ready to read the next one!

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Rescued by the Captain by Laura A Barnes – Review by Shannon Fowler

Rescued By the Captain (Romancing the Spies, #1)Rescued By the Captain by Laura A. Barnes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“It all started with a kiss in the rose garden.”

Sigh. This is a sweet story set in the early 1800’s. There’s no texting or phones calls. Information was passed by word of mouth. The major way of transportation was by sea or horseback. Simple injuries and sickness could easily turn to death. Reputations were easily ruined and virtues could just as easily be preserved. There were pirates and unscrupulous people everywhere. These people add to the mystery and adventure of this story.

I enjoyed this story. The main characters, Thorn and Ivy, seemed in tuned with each other. Even in their love confused state. Thorn and Ivy are perfect for each other even if there are a few years between them. Thorn and Ivy are characters that learn not everyone is honest and true. This story was easy to read and with minor characters like Sammy, this story is complete.

This is my first book by Barnes but will not be my last as I am looking forward to Maxwell’s and Charles’ I stories. I hope to read that Thorn and Ivy have more adventures together as well. Barnes makes “being rescued” something we all should want!

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Charlotte: Dr. Richards’ Littles 7 by Pepper North – Review by Shannon Fowler

Charlotte: Dr. Richards' Littles 7Charlotte: Dr. Richards’ Littles 7 by Pepper North
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow this is a story for the reader with an open mind. The things that Dr. Richard does with his “little” is not something everyone would want to participate in. Age Play is a relationship between two consenting adults. Charlotte finds out that age play is more than “pretending on Halloween that you’re someone else”.

This was a great story. A quick read. And even though it is book 7 in the series, each book is a stand-alone. There are other characters that obviously have a story of their own but in this story it’s all
about Charlotte.

I look forward to reading the rest of this series. I am interested in what Pepper North has planned for these characters!

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Plot Twist (Romance in Rehoboth #3) by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Shannon Fowler

Plot Twist (Romance in Rehoboth #3)Plot Twist by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a super cute story. I love the page turning writing that is KL Montgomery.

Plot Twist is book 3 in the Romance in Rehoboth series. Even though I am not an actress or into the theater productions, I really enjoyed reading this story.

Lindy is the over weight sweet pretty girl who doesn’t think she has what it takes to be the lead in the play. With a little convincing from Merick, Lindy takes a risk and becomes a sassy woman. When Merick needs a little convincing, Lindy is there offering her support. These two don’t see that they could be so much more together.

I love how Montgomery pulls these two together. There are feelings all over this story. Hopes and dreams through the play production, romance through the relationships, hard situations through the aging parents, hilarity through the dog stealing situation.

I can definitely recommend this story. Good read.

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Fur Verona by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Shannon Fowler

Fur VeronaFur Verona by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A quick read with an interesting twist on Romeo and Juliet. Didn’t read Romeo and Juliet? That’s ok because this is a little different and a lot sexier. Fur Verona is a shifter remake with what starts out as a family feud but turns into something more.

While the ending leads you to believe all is well, it also leads you to believe there could be more to this adventure.

I enjoyed the characters of Rome and Jules. I loved how they knew they shouldn’t be together but figured out a plan to make it work. I think each of their packs had elder members who could not see past their own mistakes and their long-held hatred. I am interested in seeing if McNamee takes this group of characters further.

Definitely a one click story.

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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The Twins: The Complete Trilogy by R.G. Miller – Review by Shannon Fowler

The Twins (The Twins #1-3)The Twins by R.G. Miller
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is my first book/series by R.G. Miller and let me tell you this: The Twins Trilogy is NOT and I repeat is NOT a romance story. Oh there’s love in this story, the love of an officer for her job, the love of death and destruction. But as for romance there is zilch. I say this only because if you are looking at my other reviews you will see I read romance, dark, sweet, historical, erotic, romance.

This trilogy is an amazing, action packed, on your toes, hide under the covers, psychotic murder mystery.

The first book introduces us to the twins, Stacey and Jannifer McHill. They are innocent 13 year old girls on the verge of a horrific discovery. The second book continues where the first left off with more twists and turns. The third and final story gives us the conclusion that we need. Every feeling is included in this trilogy. Tears, fears and hopefulness fill these stories. All three of these stories are fast paced, full of details and well worth the read! The characters are amazing and interesting. I can not wait to read more from this author.

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

 

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Unlikely to Stay (Parker Lake, Book 3) by Ashlie Knapp – Review by Shannon Fowler

Unlikely to Stay (Parker Lake Book 3)Unlikely to Stay by Ashlie Knapp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is not my first book by Knapp and it will not be my last. If you like stories with sweet hometown characters, stories with simple yet heart felt problems, then you need to read the Parker Lake Series. Unlikely to Stay is book 3 in the series and it is the story of CC and Brant. CC is the hometown Beauty Salon owner while Brant is the newest most eligible bachelor in town. However, Brant is only in town to serve a 3-year internship. This is another cute sweet story that will makes Ashliee Knapp a certifiable one-click author! If you have not read any of her books you could very easily pick this one to start with. There is some back story told about CC’s friends which are books 1 and 2 in this series but each book is about a new couple. The other stories are a must read as well. I don’t think there is any one thing that I love about this book, it is just an over all good story. I can definitely recommend this story to readers young and old alike.

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The Navigator: A Mountains Trilogy Novel by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Shannon Fowler

The Navigator: A Mountains Trilogy NovelThe Navigator: A Mountains Trilogy Novel by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Navigator is heart wrenching. To know someone like Garrett, someone so lost and completely out of hope, is heart wrenching. Alexander does a fantastic job of creating this character so that the reader can feel his pain and despair as well. I sure did!

Anjuli is the coolest name ever. This character is an older woman, 40’s, smart, dedicated and strong. I could relate to Anjuli as a woman and a mother. We women tend to do things because we must, simply because there is no one else to do it. This character is no different. Anjuli is strong and free and reading about her makes me smile and gives me hope.

Fate leads these two characters to meet. They literally bump into each other. Not cliché at all, actually, more sweet and innocent than cliché. What starts out as a “friends with benefits” situation turns into something more. With the twisting family dynamics and hot sex scenes this book is all that and a bag of chips! And can we add in there Garrett’s hot sexy roommate!

As with Alexander’s other books, The Navigator must be read with an open mind. Some situations aren’t for everyone, but man does she make them worth reading!

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Bound: Four Book Boxed Set by Shandi Boyes – Review by Shannon Fowler

Bound: Four Book Boxed SetBound: Four Book Boxed Set by Shandi Boyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Chains is book one and introduces us to Cleo, Marcus and Master Chains. I instantly fell in love with these characters. As I did with Boyes characters from the Enigma and Perception series. The ending though…I just want to shake this author! Boyes writing style pulls the reader right into the story where nothing else matters.

Links is book two and continues Cleo and Marcus’ adventure. However, my heart is breaking for Cleo because I know that there is evil at work here. I can feel something big is about to happen!

“Because it isn’t what we have in value that defines us; it is how well we rise after falling that shows our true spirit.”

I am also beginning to see a pattern for this author…she really likes a cliff hanger where the reader is screaming NOOOOO!!! Right up to the last word!

Bound is book three in this series and starts off right where Links leaves us! This adventure is “A true rollercoaster ride.” Exactly the way Cleo’s emotions are through-out the entire book! This book has been by far my favorite. The action both in the bedroom…er….playroom and out leaves me a little breathless. So looking forward to reading more about Marcus before Cleo kills him!

Restrained is the fourth book and the exciting conclusion that will rip you open and put you back together again. This book is faster paced than the rest of the series. It is exactly how a conclusion should be…except that there are a few characters that go MIA so does that mean there will be more?!? As far as Cleo and Marcus’ story they truly have “The best of both worlds”. This story was worth every penny spent and every tear shed.

I highly recommend this series!

“Call me a coward or any other derogative word you like. I won’t put up a protest. Until you have been through what I’ve been through, you can’t judge my actions.”

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Coastal Spirit: Stranded in Paradise book 3 by Lindsay Marie Miller – Review by Shannon Fowler

Coastal Spirit: An Action Adventure Romance (Stranded in Paradise, #3)Coastal Spirit: An Action Adventure Romance by Lindsay Marie Miller
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The third book to the Stranded in Paradise Trilogy brings us new characters and reunites us with the old ones. Elaine and Henry are still fighting for their lives to get off the island and this time Henry’s sister, Louisa is with them. At the end of book 2 a volcano has erupted and Henry and Elaine barely have the strength to stand thanks to the beating from Judas. Somehow Elaine finds more of her inner strength and is able to get them to safety.

I really liked the adventure these characters took, even though it wasn’t an adventure they chose. In the first story, Jungle Eyes, I found Elaine a little unsettled and possibly bi polar. However, in Coastal Spirit, she is matured, level headed and ready to take on the evil Judas and Frederic. I like the growth this character has taken. I like the twist and surprise that comes with Frederic and with Captain Scarlett. I know there has to be more to his story.

The only thing that really bothered me in this book was that there didn’t seem like enough worry about Lily. I’m not sure if Elaine just put Lily out of her mind in order to survive but I kept thinking, “What about Lily?” “Who’s got Lily?” Thankfully by the end of the story Lily’s situation is revealed.

I highly recommend this book but it is not a standalone. You must start with Jungle Eyes. I can’t wait to see what else Lindsay Marie Miller has in store.

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Island Smile: Stranded in Paradise Book 2 by Lindsay Marie Miller – Review by Shannon Fowler

Island Smile: An Action Adventure Romance (Stranded in Paradise, #2)Island Smile: An Action Adventure Romance by Lindsay Marie Miller
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book 2 in the Stranded in Paradise series is full of surprises! Some good and some not so much! Lindsay Marie Miller can write a story that draws a reader right in. Sometimes a reader wants to be the main character but I am reserving that idea for the happily ever after that is sure to come…right? Please.

The ending of Island Smile leaves everyone, characters and readers alike, wondering what is going to happen! Who will survive the island?! HOW will they survive?! Does anyone ever really die on the island?

Remember this series is set in the 1900’s so men and women were still learning that women could do more than just look pretty. Elaine and Louisa are girl power for sure! I loved the characters in this story so much better than in book one. Elaine seemed a little unsettled, I believe I said bi-polar, during Jungle Eyes. This story has her level headed and determined. I like this version of her better. Henry, her husband, is the protective, loving husband he should be. A little full of rage but really I do not blame him one bit. I also love the character of Louisa, Henry’s sister. We met her in book one, but she has a much bigger part in this story. I can only wonder what is going to happen in the next book.

I am looking forward to reading Coastal Spirit and highly recommend you read this series, starting with book one, Jungle Eyes.

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Jungle Eyes: Stranded in Paradise #1 by Lindsay Marie Miller – Review by Shannon Fowler

Jungle Eyes: An Action Adventure Romance (Stranded in Paradise, #1)Jungle Eyes: An Action Adventure Romance by Lindsay Marie Miller
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is an interesting adventure. The time is the late 1800’s and times call for mothers to marry off their children, hoping for happiness, wealth and maybe even love. Henry’s mother is the epitome of all mothers from that time. Henry, however, is not interested in marriage or even listening to his mother talk on and on about the young girls all over town. Henry’s friend, Charlie, has enlisted to join a group of men for an adventure overseas. Little do they know the fate that awaits them. When Henry washes up on a deserted island, he never dreams he would meet another human being, much less, Elaine.

These two characters… whoa. Their relationship makes me just a little crazy. I guess Elaine was young when she landed on the island and having been alone for so long would make a person a little unsettled. She seems to me a little bi-polar. I can certainly see why she behaves the way she does. I can’t wait to see where Miller takes these two. I am looking forward to a wild adventure!

I have read other books by Lindsay Marie Miller and her books are a little fantasy, a little adventure, a little romance and in this story a little mystery at the ending!

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Eye of the Storm (Gray Ghost #2) by Amy McKinley – Review by Shannon Fowler

Eye of the Storm (Gray Ghost #2)Eye of the Storm by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Eye of the Storm is A Gray Ghost Novel book 2. It can be read as a standalone but there are a couple of characters from book one. This is also my second book by McKinley and it will not be my last.
This story is quite the adventure. While fighting the jungles of Columbia, the Ramirez cartel, and the guerrillas looking for blood, how is a girl supposed to find romance and love!? The very first page starts us on our adventure with a man stuck in a tree, upside down with no memories. Is he the good guy? The enemy? Our hero?

Enters Mari. She’s running. Running from the jungle, the cartel, the guerrillas and even her past. We feel a bond and a sense of urgency that Mari needs to get to safety. Enters Hannah. She seems to be a know it all tough fighter of a woman. But McKinley doesn’t let us love or hate her just yet. We, the readers, are left wondering if we can really even trust her. Enters the mysterious unconscious man, who was stuck in the tree, named Chris. Why can’t he remember anything? Can anyone be trusted?

McKinley writes a story of intrigue and mystery. Confusion and courage, trust and understanding. Good story line. I look forward to reading more from McKinley.

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Siren Call by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Shannon Fowler

Siren CallSiren Call by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! Hot and sexy. I’m not sure who my girl crush is on more: Phoebe Alexander or Jessie.

This story is a female/female romance. Not your everyday boy meets girl with rainbows and unicorns. No this story has swingers, lesbians, bi-sexuals and maybe if you’re looking, you might find a straight lover. It has mean girls and a mystery that makes this story a page turner.

Jessie is our main character and is a hot girl cop who meets our other main character, Siren, who is a hot mess of a mystery. The other characters are Paisley, Cap, Alvin and Leah who are all from the first two books, but each story can be a standalone. My opinion though is to start with the first book, Fisher of Men, because the Eastern Shore Swingers Series is worth starting at the beginning.

Phoebe Alexander has written another great body-positive story with sex-positive characters. While the reader may not be a swinger or even open about their own sexuality, Alexander leads the reader to believe that all people deserve happiness and love.

Really good story line that makes me want to keep reading anything Phoebe Alexander puts out!

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Unlikely to Fit (Parker Lake, Book 2) by Ashlie Knapp – Review by Shannon Fowler

Unlikely to Fit (Parker Lake Book 2)Unlikely to Fit by Ashlie Knapp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love Ashlie Knapp’s writing style, characters, covers, and stories! You can try to avoid love and be just like the main characters of this story, Breckin and Griff, but I bet just like them, you will be surprised!

Knapp’s books are easy to read, with stories that are sweet, sexy and safe enough for your own 90 year old “Mema” to read!

Since this is not my first book by Knapp, I was hoping that Unlikely to Fit would leave me smiling and my heart warm and full, just like her other books. In the craziness of real life, it is good to have a go to author to make you feel good! Ashlie Knapp is my go to goodness!

Breckin and Griff have had their hearts broken by their previous loves. Neither one is looking to start over. Their adventure is a fun one to read. Griff’s grandmother steals the show most of the time which causes Griff and Breckin to come together.

This is the second book in the series but it could be read as a stand alone. However, I suggest reading book one first as there are some references to the main characters, Annie and Wyatt. The main characters from book one are the best friends of Breckin and Griff. (Plus Knapp writes a great story!)

Review by @shannonlovesbooks
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Single by Lindsay Marie Miller – Review by Shannon Fowler

Single (Love in Seattle, #1)Single by Lindsay Marie Miller
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I had high hopes for this story since I have read a few of LMM’s other books. And of course she didn’t let me down. Good story. Would have been a great story if the main characters, Graham and Jessie, had a (Better) relationship outside of the bedroom. In the bedroom, these two were on fire. LMM did a great job of leading us to the bedroom scene and letting our imaginations take over. I would be interested in reading Graham’s side of this story.

The tone through most of this book makes me feel like something bad is going to happen, something that can’t be fixed. I was anxious most of the time…waiting. Yes Jessie had a bad childhood but it wasn’t devastating enough, at least to me, for her to be SO untrusting.

Overall I really did like this story. Graham is sweet and forgiving, Jessie is smart and just wants someone to love her, someone that will stay. Even the best friends, Sean and Sara are fun to read about. (Will they get their own story?)

This story has me stalk…err… following Miller to see what and who is next!! I can definitely recommend this story and author.

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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The Perception of Reality (Perception #1-2) by Shandi Boyes – Review by Shannon Fowler

The Perception of Reality (Perception #1-2)The Perception of Reality by Shandi Boyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Perception of Life: 4 stars

What did I just read…

This first part felt like I had read it before, it felt vaguely familiar. Maybe I have read another story like this one but then I got about half way through and I knew this story was nothing like anything I had read before. It starts out just how you would think a story about a young rising rock star and the love of his life would be. Good times and rough times getting to know each other and trust each other and just survive without each other. Crazy fans and crazier paparazzi.

This story will have you laughing out loud, rolling your eyes, breathing a sigh of relief and swooning when-ever Noah enters the scene. Page after page of wondering and assuming what could happen…but then something totally different happens! The ending is what leaves you asking why Shandi? Why?

Reality of Life 10 stars!!

Readers’ tears are not that great!! Oh the heart break!! What have you done Boyes!! What. Have. You. Done. What a great twist!!

Part two of the Perception of Reality is the Reality of Life! The realization that you must go on when something tragic happens. The realization that life is not always rainbows and unicorns. The realization that sometimes not everything is as it seems.

Readers are advised to have their tissues ready for the first half of this book for their tears and then be ready for your mouth to be hanging open for the remainder of the book! This story is fast paced in a slow motion, this can’t be happening kind of way.

The story continues right where it left off in book one. Noah is almost too good to be true, but then again that is what makes him the perfect book boyfriend! And Emily…oh Emily. The realization that these two have to go through so much turmoil is heartbreaking. But thankfully Boyes pulls it all together and mends our hearts in an unbelievable way.

WAY TO GO SHANDI!! Highly recommended!

Review by @shannonlovesbooks
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Broken Circle (Gray Ghost #1) by Amy McKinley – Review by Shannon Fowler

Broken Circle (Gray Ghost #1)Broken Circle by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Broken Circle is my first book by Amy McKinley. I felt the beginning was slow to start but I still had the huge feeling that something very bad was on its way. No big surprise that the bad was actually Liv’s own in laws and maybe even her husband, Alex….NOOOOO. Please not the husband.

I loved watching Liv grow and realize that she is strong enough, smart enough and very capable of her own safety and happiness.

A little before the half way point we learn just how bad things are and how bad they just might get. Alex’s family holds secrets that Liv may not want to know. Is Alex hiding something from his wife? Even from his family? The twists in this book kept me turning the pages. And then along comes Liam! Will Liam be the knight in shining armor we need/want? Will Liv be able to live up to her potential!?

This book left me with many feelings of heartbreak, confusion, longing, and hope. I am sure many of the same feeling Liv experienced throughout the story.

Definitely recommend this book and am looking forward to reading more from McKinley.

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Honey Gold (Murder in Savannah, #2) by Lindsay Marie Miller – Review by Shannon Fowler

Honey Gold (Murder in Savannah, #2)Honey Gold by Lindsay Marie Miller
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ohhh how the plot thickens with book 2! You must read book one, Emerald Green, to be able to follow the adventure. Honey Gold continues where Emerald Green left off. Sneaky, slimy bad guys, dead bodies, and oh man that necklace! What can Addie and Tom do! Honestly I would have been happy if Addie had smashed it into a million pieces!

Lindsay Marie Miller pulls you into this crazy world with characters you want to just hug and some you just want to kill…again. We are lead to believe many things during this portion of the series. It seems like Tom and Addie have figured out how to be together…but then Miller gives them something else to worry about. Oh how I love Eric and Jeanine! Of course if it is too good to be true then it probably isn’t. Miller doesn’t want any of these characters to have an easy time! Eric and Jeanine have so much to work through, I think even more than Addie and Tom!

There did seem like a few gaps in the story. For example, during their time at the beach house. I felt like Tom and Addie were only there for the necklace. Didn’t anything else happen there? I believe this story could have used a little more romance and the beach house would have been a perfect place for a little more loving…but then I remember that Addie, Tom, Eric, Jeanine and many other characters in this series are just 15-17 years old. While, yes they are experiencing true love, first love and even an intense kind of love, they are still just teenagers.

I am looking forward to reading what Miller has in store for this group of young people. Will the necklace be the end all? Will there ever be a happy ending!?

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Pearl White (Murder in Savannah, #3) by Lindsay Marie Miller – Review by Shannon Fowler

Pearl White (Murder in Savannah, #3)Pearl White by Lindsay Marie Miller
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love to write notes and my thoughts while reading a good book. So here are a few thoughts, of course edited for sensitive eyes.

Are you kidding me with that ending!?! Just when I thought we had a happy ending…that ding dang necklace shows up! What is it? How? Just smash it! And all those evil people and the betrayal that Addie has to deal with! So not fair! Do not throw the phone! Do not throw the phone! Just keep reading! The end is near!

Ok so Lindsay Marie Miller sucked me into Addie’s adventure and still has me all twisted up! I really liked this story much more than the first two, so I cannot wait to read the next one…there is a next one right Miller?!? Remember that ending? So yeah…the next one…please.

The same main characters are in this story because the adventure is not over. Addie still seems wishy washy to me especially at the beginning. She is still a 17-18 yr old young woman with only herself to guide her, so I have given her a little more leeway in her actions and mixed up emotions. Tom was so much more lovable and believable through most of this book. This book does explain a few things that were left questionable in books one and two. But as I said before, that ending! Now there are a few more questions!

If you want to read this book (you really do want to!) you must have already read the first two books or you will not know what the heck is going on. So I am definitely recommending this book, series and author!

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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