Falling in love all over again by Bella Andre ARC review

Falling in Love All Over Again by Bella Andre

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Lori and Grayson are spending time together before the birth of their first child. Grayson has been super protective of Lori the whole pregnancy, given his past no one is surprised by this but could it be more than that?

Lori is still trouble, living up to her childhood nickname. She is cruising through this pregnancy with ease. She knows Grayson is being extra cautious with her but lately she thinks there is more going on with him. Will he open up to her?

Lori and Grayson head out on a babymoon before the baby comes. They try to get back in touch with the pre-pregnancy selves and just relax and enjoy. Talking through things Lori realizes that Grayson is having more of a problem just relaxing and enjoying the pregnancy. Together on the beach they give each other a long pep talk just as Lori realizes she is in active labor.

Lori and Grayson head to the hospital in just enough time to welcome either baby girl. Never agreeing on a name until the moment of birth, they honor her with the most special name they can think of.

I always love catching up with the Sullivans and there are plenty of cameos from the baby shower but also mentioning cousins all over the country. 4 stars for this Sullivan novella. I received an advance copy without expectation for review, any and all opinions expressed are my own.




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Claiming Christmas by Suzanne Hart ARC review

Claiming Christmas by Suzanne Hart

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


**3.5 stars***

Lara was raised with money, the past few years she has been making her way around Europe trying to find herself. She has no spent basically all her money and has little prospects for securing her future. She takes her brother up on his offer of using his little cabin in the woods for her to take some time to figure out her next step in life.

Declan loved being all alone in the woods, his little cabin was a perfect match for the life he now wanted to live. About 2 years ago he had a completely different lifestyle then one tragic event switched his priorities. He knows as soon as he see the little sports car driving by that his quiet time in the woods is over.

Lara has no idea how she is going to survive til Christmas with no food or warmth in her little cabin. She ventures out to see if the man she saw on the way in can help her. His solution is to give her firewood if she left him alone. Harumph.

Declan just wants Lara to leave him alone. Maybe if he gives her enough firewood she won’t come back. He can’t stop thinking about her though, as much as he wants to, and finds himself venturing over to her cabin to check on her.

Lara and Declan find themselves hiding out in the woods, for different but almost similar reasons. Can they come together to heal and be just what the other has been looking for?
3 ½ stars for the newest novel from Ms Hart, I received an advance copy without expectation for review any and all opinions expressed are my own.





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Dear Dixie by JL Baldwin

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Dear Dixie is FREE from 11/9 - 11/13

.¸.•*(¸.•*(¸.•*(¸.•*´`*•.¸)`*•.)`*•.¸)`*•.¸

Title: Dear Dixie (A Legacy Falls Romance

Author: J.L. Baldwin

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Cover Designer: T.E. Black Designs

Formatter: T.E. Black Designs

✨ Add to Goodreads ✨

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31067484-dear-dixie

✨ Blurb ✨

After the sudden death of her parents, Dixie believed the worst was behind her and she could move on from her life. She was wrong. When two military men arrive to inform her brother Charlie and been killed in action, her world crashes around her. He had not only been her brother, but he had been her best friend, confidant, and sidekick. Their bond was unbreakable...except in death. A chasm in her heart was opened and she doesn't think anything can fill it.

To help mend her broken heart, her therapist suggests Dixie volunteer to write letters to wounded veterans. She isn't sure what to expect, but when she receives a random reply, things begin to change.

When Charlie's best friend and wounded vet, Zane Carson, agreed to participate in a new program, he doesn't think much of it, believing it best to keep his expectations low. Unbeknownst to him, he receives a letter from his best friend's little sister...the sister he has always secretly longed for. Zane hid his feelings for Dixie, afraid of what Charlie would do or say if he found out.

A simple letter was the power to open the door to a million new opportunities. But will Zane let those opportunities to pass him by, or will be grab hold with both hands?

One written letter.
Two broken souls.
An adventure neither were prepared for.

✨ Buy Links ✨

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✨ About the Author ✨

Growing up, J.L. Baldwin has always had a love of fairy tales and happily ever afters. Now, she loves her fairy tales grittier, darker, and sexier, while keeping a happily ever after ending. She has always dreamed of becoming an author and that dream finally became reality when she debuted her first book in December of 2015.

In her free time when she isn't writing, she can be found with a book in her hand, while still thinking about the stories that have yet to be written.

J.L. is known for writing sexy, enticing romance with delicious, devious twists that are sure to entrance you for years and years to come.

✨ Stalker Links ✨

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Want Me Cowboy by Maisey Yates ARC review

Want Me, Cowboy by Maisey Yates

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Poppy Sinclair has loved Isaiah Grayson with all her being for 10 years. Unfortunately he sees her only as the best assistant he has ever had. When he gets the harebrained idea to get married by putting an ad in the newspaper, Poppy realizes she has to set him straight.

Isaiah asks Poppy to vet all the candidates for marriage fiasco, he trusts her judgment implicitly so he knows she’ll pick the perfect wife for him. After a moment of clarity he realizes Poppy would be the perfect wife. They work well together, have a mutual respect and she would be a great mother for his kids. The only thing missing is love.

Poppy and Isaiah find there is more to their relationship than just co-workers. Will a real chance at a family be the ultimate draw for the former foster kid? Can Isaiah give love a real chance after abandoning hope for it due to a former relationship? Will an unexpected surprise pull them closer or push them even farther apart? You’ll have to pick up your copy of Want Me Cowboy today.

I am a huge fan of this author’s writing style and this book doesn’t disappoint. Though I can say I felt a little “left hanging” by certain things I felt didn’t resolve enough for me (or even play through enough). I still give it 4 stars but it just isn’t as solid as I normally get from Ms Yates, in my humble opinion. I received an advance copy without expectation for review, any and all opinions expressed are my own. Still a go to author for me, so this blip won’t even register on my loyalty scale.



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Wicked Whiskey Love by Melissa Foster ARC review

Wicked Whiskey Love by Melissa Foster

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Bones Whiskey has more than one thing going for him. He’s handsome, a doctor and part of the town motorcycle club whose mission is to keep everyone safe. He would love to add Sarah Beckley to his list of people who trust him to keep them safe. She is a frightened single mother who just needs a little time to warm up to him. He hopes.

Sarah hasn’t felt safe and secure for basically her entire life. Her parents ridiculed and berated her every chance they got so she left home at 16 hoping to find something better. Better did not come in the shape of her ex boyfriend and father of her children. She finds herself in Peaceful Harbor enveloped in the town’s warm and welcoming hands. Can she let her guard down and trust the Whiskey family?

Bones and Sarah navigate their newfound relationship while interacting with the other people of Peaceful Harbor. Sarah is finding it hard to let herself relax and be taken care of while dealing with her past. Her brother Scott has been an amazing support and her children of course but she can’t let herself give in to Bones’ promises of love. Can she let down her defenses at a chance for love?

I received an advance copy without expectation for review, any and all opinions expressed are my own. A solid 4 star read from this author.




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The Posse by Tawdra Kandle review

The Posse by Tawdra Kandle

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


We all have that core group of friends, the ones that have been us along the way, know all our deepest secrets and butt into our business constantly. The Posse has been that to each other for decades. When one half of a couple dies, they make it there mission to make sure the one left stays put by falling for another posse member. What starts out as a typical guy response to fixing a problem (that never was) turns into a story of unrequited love and second chances for happiness.

Jude has lived the same life almost her entire life. Running the restaurant, same people, tourists, walking home, raising her kids. In the last 18 months, though, her life has tilted off its axis. She lost her husband Daniel after an illness took him early in life but long into their relationship. She didn’t know what she would have done without the Posse in her life, picking her up and helping her negotiate this new normal.

Logan has loved Jude since way back in their school days. When she and Daniel got together he backed off and became the best friend he could to them both. When Daniel died he, and the other members of the Posse, kept an eye on Jude to keep her holding it together. When the other guys in the Posse bring up the idea of getting her to fall for one of the single guys to keep her in Crystal Cove, he thinks it would be a great time to express his feelings.

Matt, Connor and Logan each make plans with Jude, which at first she is flattered by then turns to slightly creeped out where Matt and Connor are concerned. She finds herself attracted to Logan, then starts to wonder if it is acceptable with losing Daniel so soon. Jude and Logan express their feelings to each other and slowly bring the other members of their family and friends into their new relationship.

I really enjoyed Jude and Logan as a couple as well as Jude’s relationship with her children. Her son actually brings the next generation into the Crystal Cove family and her daughter goes to Burton GA to continue a new series, Love in a Small Town. Once again Tawdra takes you on a wonderfully written ride from start to finish. Tiny details that make the storyline flow seamlessly, drawing the reader in with every word. 4 1/2 stars for this read and I will continue on this series with the next 2 books then move on to Love in a Small Town to find out what Meggie can get herself in to.




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Dirty Villains is Live

****ITS LIVE!!!****

*-_-*-_-* R E L E A S E & G I V E A W A Y *-_-*-_-*

Dirty Villains Anthology
Photog: BT Urruela
Photo Editing: Gigi Hoggard
Models: Julie Mick-Schalm, Chelsea Kristine and Sabrina Owensby (Reagan Hollow)
Formatting & Cover Design: T.E. Black Designs

***All online sales from this anthology will be donated to local sheriff and police departments around the country to help supply K-9 Ballistics vests.***

>>BLURB<<
Ask yourself, what makes a villain? Is it a skewed moral code or lack thereof completely? Is it the motivation of darkness burning within their soul or is it how they choose to embrace it? To get what their black hearts desire, they may have to give in to temptation and consume the light coming their way.
Follow your favorite villains as they finally get a chance to unveil their side of the story. You may find the heroines painted a bit more vexing than you recall. As you take this journey, allow your mind to remain open and your thoughts might just surprise you.
You may find, you’re a villain, too.
We won't judge you, if you don't judge us.

>>FOLLOW LINKS<<
Cheri Marie  http://www.facebook.com/authorcherimarie
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Trouble in Hell By Alex Grayson

*RELEASE ALERT* TROUBLE IN HELL by Alex Grayson is live and can be read for FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
“Intimate and raw, dark and dangerous.”
Get your copies now!
Giveaway : Win a TROUBLE IN HELL prize pack featuring a blanket, t-shirt, ceramic mug, tote bag, Cry Here pillow, and signed poster, plus a $50 Gift Card! http://bit.ly/FBTiHNowLive

Amazon US - http://bit.ly/TiHamazonUS
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Driven to Distraction by Lori Foster ARC review

Driven to Distraction by Lori Foster




Brodie Crews is used to getting what he wants. He would never call himself a ladies man but eh if the shoe fits…… When Mary Daniels clomps her way up his stone steps he know right then and there that he will have her. Getting her to agree on the other hand may take a little more effort on his part.

Mary Daniels has worked hard to make a name for herself, damn hard. No thanks to her mother who dragged them both through the mud when she was younger. She grew up and got out as soon as she could, only returning to her childhood home when her mother overdosed. She tried to change her town’s opinion of poor little Mary but she failed, so she decided she needed to stay away. Now she works exclusively for the elusive Therman Ritter and he wants to hire the Mustang Transport company, specifically Brodie Crews, to help transport some of his most precious finds. Now if she could just get her lady parts to heel anytime she is in the vicinity of Brodie she could focus and get on with her job.

Brodie and Mary set off on adventure after adventure accruing collectibles for Therman’s growing collection. After one exchange results in gunfire, Brodie makes it known to Therman that he won’t stand for any more shady dealings. His brother Jack will handle routing to ensure his and Mary’s safety during the exchanges. That doesn’t sit well with Mary who feels like Brodie is undermining her abilities and lets him know that. Brodie stresses he only wants to protect her and isn’t saying she couldn’t do the job. Slowly he wears down her protective shell and she starts to let him in.

Brodie and Mary have undeniable chemistry from their first meeting, even though he is not completely struck by her beauty at first but works at pulling her from her shell. He gets her to open up about her past and let herself relax a little in life. Realizing that true beauty isn’t just skin deep.

Mary has never had a real family, or so she thought, but she realizes the people she works with have been more a family to her than blood relatives. She is finally home.

Another great series starter from Lori Foster, a 4 ½ star read, can't wait for the next book in the series to come down the pipeline. I received an advance copy without expectation for review. Any and all opinions expressed are my own.



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Jack by Stella Marie Alden ARC review

Jack by Stella Marie Alden

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


The latest novel by Stella Marie Alden is one that tells the story of Jack, bodyguard to CJ and Mel from Busted Play (and he is mentioned in countless other books along the way). Jack finally gets a story of his own when he meets Blakely, the new doctor taking over for Mel as she and CJ prepare to move their family to a new state. Blakely has a checkered past that Jack soon finds himself involved in, for her protection of course. Can they work together to save her life, from her past to ensure her future?

I have read a few novels by Ms. Alden and this one pretty much flows the same as the others. Quick reads with no real surprises. This one does touch on the cult lifestyle, particularly Mormon’s so that is interesting to learn more about. This read gets a 3 ½ star rating from this reader. I received an advance copy without expectation for review. Any and all opinions expressed are my own.




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Hot Winter Nights by Jill Shalvis ARC review

Release date of September 25 2018

Hot Winter Nights by Jill Shalvis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Lucas Knight never wants to get shot again. If thinking the pain from a bullet in your side was bad, being stuck at home not released for work duty is a bigger pain to deal with. To top it off he wakes up with a woman at his side and no memory of how they got there. He gets the hell out of his apartment before she wakes up and it gets awkward. Making his way into the office to see if maybe he could fudge his way around his non-release and get back into a case. Joe and Archer might throw him a bone if they see him around the office.

Molly Malone is tired of living as Joe’s younger sister or just the office help. She wants to get her own case to solve for their company and thinks Santa might just be the way. Waking up in Lucas’ bed, even knowing nothing happened, lands her the perfect opportunity to get what she wants one way or another.

Molly and Lucas set out to vindicate the angry elves and figure out the money trail. All the while they start understanding their attraction to each other. Can they find a way to mix business and pleasure for the whole package?

I loved this book, my first Heartbreaker Bay book to read (though I have most on my TBR shelf). I absolutely loved the hashtags as chapter titles angle. And the relationship between Molly and Lucas has all the dimensions we look for in a partner. Her father brings awareness to PTSD and protective father’s humor where their daughters are concerned. I voluntarily read an advance copy without expectations for review. Any and all opinions expressed are my own. 4 ½ stars for this return to Heartbreaker Bay.



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Going Down Easy by Erin Nicholas ARC review

Going Down Easy by Erin Nicholas

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Oh my gravy, where do I even start with Gabe and Addison. Hot hot hot. Ok full honesty here, I thought for sure I knew exactly how this book was going to play out (yea I think I’m cool like that) but NOPE. The ride was totally worth it let me tell you. This is one instance I’m happy to feel foolish.

Gabe Trahan is a 5th generation tavern owner in the heart of New Orleans. (Insert southern accent here. Go ahead, I’ll wait). One night a beautiful woman walks into his bar and they proceed to have a sort of relationship whenever she is in town. Which currently is 1 weekend per month. He loves spending time with Addison and she is the first woman he can truly see spending his life with. But (there is always a but isn’t there), he has a secret that he guards close to the vest and hopefully it won’t send her running back to New York.

Addison Sloan looks forward to her monthly visit to NOLA, not just to see Gabe and spend time with him (ok that’s a lie, he is the best part) but to fully engage herself in the southern culture. She has lost her heart to both Gabe and everything New Orleans and dreads going back home. When a surprise local job offers presents itself she takes it knowing she has to say goodbye to Gabe. She wouldn’t be able to live and work in the same town as him knowing it could never be a real relationship. When he doesn’t get the hint she knows her secret will send him running faster than anything else she could do or say.

Gabe and Addison think they both have something incredible to lose in this scenario but in reality their secrets were the least of their issues. Though seemingly two totally different people on the outside, just shows us they are the same on the inside. They just present themselves to the world as they want to be seen. They both need to look inside themselves and realize they are good enough, just the way they are.

Going Down Easy is the first book in a new series by Erin Nicholas. And as with her other series I am hooked. Hook, line, sinker hooked already. Gabe and Addison are only the beginning in what I can already tell is going to be a steamy southern series. 5 stars for this read, wish I had more stars to give honestly. I received an advance copy without any expectation for review. Any and all opinions expressed above are my own. I’m going out to buy some pralines and beneits now, be right back.



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Hard Deal by Stefanie London ARC review

Hard Deal by Stefanie London

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Imogen Hargrove isn’t one to get riled easily. As the assistant to a powerful CEO and his 2 gorgeous son’s she doesn’t have time to let things get under her skin. Except for Caleb Allbrook, the CEO’s bad boy youngest son. He gets her thinking things she can’t possibly imagine. It’s really too bad she doesn’t swear because he is smurfing hot.

Caleb Allbrook is the misunderstood son next to his brother Jason the golden boy. He can’t figure out why their father hates him so much. He likes messing with Imogen because she is so put together and rigid. Half the time her lips are so straight she looks like she sucked on a lemon. One night he sees a glimpse of a fireball underneath all that prim and proper and decides he wants to see more.

Imogen has been cheated on in her past so when it looks like her sister is having the same problem with her fiancé she makes it her mission to blow his cover. Too bad she needs Caleb’s help to do so. Can she resist her attraction to him to keep this relationship, friends only?

Caleb wants Imogen all to himself and uses any and every opportunity to get her in his bed. Will it destroy the true friendship they have been working toward achieving?

Hard Deal is a 5 star story about not judging people by their appearances or at first glance. You never quite know what is going on beneath the surface as Imogen and Caleb both find in regards to the other. I loved the way Imogen came up with phrases instead of swearing. Her references had me laughing at loud at a few moments. I read an advance copy without any expectation for review. Any and all opinions expressed are my own.

I wish I would have found Ms. London sooner, I love her style of writing and will continue to snatch up her novels are they are published.



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Her Cherry by Penelope Bloom ARC review

Her Cherry by Penelope Bloom

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I want to be Grammy when I grow up!!!! Hailey always thought Grammy knew best but after William Chamberson takes her cherry and deflowers her she starts thinking Granny may be barking up the wrong tree.

Hailey is a 25 year old virgin, thanks to some skuzzy exes, and loves to bake more than sex (well that is obvious given the whole Vcard. She is also about a millisecond from getting evicted from both her apartment and her bake shop. She may not have much but she has her recipes, shop and everything inside that helps motivate her to trudge through life. After taking a bet with co-worker/pseudo little brother to shed her shyness and be bold with the first (not scurvy) guy that buys a cherry pie she isn’t sure she can do it. Until William struts into the bakery that is, she offers him her pie.

William is just trying to get a bagel when he walks into The Bubbly Baker, what he gets instead feels like a lick of his whole body. The sexy baker checked him out and then some, he actually felt a little dirty after her gawking. She offers him her cherry, pie that is and he leaves her his card after borrowing her flowers (it’s only stealing if he dies) to get her to call him. He has never felt like this before, can his little baker virgin be his soulmate?

Through in some meddling low life parents, an hysterical Grammy and her retirement cronies and you have an awesome experience by Penelope Bloom. Her Cherry is every bit the romantic comedy that His Banana was (if you haven’t read that one you must). 4 ½ stars for making me fall for Hailey and William and all their craziness. I received an advance copy without expectation for review. Any and all opinions expressed are my own.




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Taking A Shot by Taryn Leigh Taylor ARC review

Taking a Shot by Taryn Leigh Taylor

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Taking a Shot is the first book I’ve read by this author but apparently, reading more information about the series, I’ve found Brett was one of the most requested characters fans asked to get his own book. And I can definitely see why. Brett and Chelsea have undeniable chemistry that you can almost feel popping off the page. As a first read, it caught my attention and held it for the entire read.

Brett Sillinger is a hockey player that is on the back end of a very illustrious career. After a few bad choices, including a disastrous marriage, he is starting over at a franchise in Montanta. After landing in his new “hometown” he makes his way to the hotel bar to relax and unwind thinking he’d find himself alone. Too bad a marketing convention had just let out and the men hightailed it to the hotel bar. He was starting to use that “cursed” word again when a gorgeous woman bumped into him spilling his drink. Well, this could change things.

Chelsea London was tired of being the good girl. Tired of having lists and clipboards and doing or saying the right thing all the time. After her ex broke up with her for being to “boring” she finds herself on a mission. A one night stand kinda mission. It goes against everything she feels right down deep in her soul but she needs to try something wild for once. She picks the perfect spot, a hotel bar with lonely men attending a marketing conference and away she goes. Too bad these men are totally not doing anything for her libido. She wants fire, she wants spark, instant attraction that happens once in a lifetime. Bump And there he is.

Brett and Chelsea, though seemingly opposite on paper, find themselves in all too familiar surroundings and expectations. They both fight the attraction they have for one another tooth and nail but realize in the end, they are who they both want and need in their life. Fairytales and clipboards, who knew they made they best combinations.

4.5 star read for Taking a Shot (Montana Wolfpack series) from this reader. I received a copy without expectation for review that I enjoyed very much. I will be adding this author to my go to list of authors for the future. Any and all opinions expressed above are my own.




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When I Kissed You by Suzie Grace ARC review

When I Kissed You by Suzie Grace

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Riley Jablonski is a college student studying finance who attends a lecture with guest speaker Ian McCarthy. He is a self-made man who comes to speak at his alma-mater, she finds herself enamored with him and loves to hear what he has to say. He is known to be fair, ethical and zero tolerance when it comes to the business world and she admires that in a mentor. Doesn’t hurt that despite being older than her own father, he is hot as hell.

Ian McCarthy is back at his old school getting ready to lecture to the finance students about all things business. Too bad he is feeling less than excited to be here. He lost is wife not long ago and is almost estranged from his son. He wished he could explain to his son why he isn’t mourning the loss of his wife as much as people expect him to. One student near the front grabs his attention for her knowledge of the business world and he finds himself intrigued.

Ian offers Riley an intern opportunity in New York and she happily accepts. Ready to see something new for the summer instead of helping her uncle, she hops on a plane ready to soak up everything Ian McCarthy and New York have to offer her.

Ian and Riley soon realize, despite their obvious age difference, they have enormous amounts of things in common. They attraction for each other grows without their control and they soon find themselves in a relationship. But at what cost to them both? Unfortunately his son Logan has other ideas for how his father should be moving on after losing his wife. After an email whoops and ultimatums handed out Riley and Ian decide it is better to be apart then make everyone else miserable. Until fate brings them back together again, for good.

I enjoyed this 4 star story overall though it did drag slightly at times. Age wasn’t a factor to be considered when the storyline took over so it wasn’t as big an issue for me as I’d first thought it would be. It ultimately becomes a love story for any age or age gap. I received a copy without expectation for review, any and all opinions expressed are my own. Great first read from a new to me author.




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Good Time Cowboy by Maisey Yates ARC Review

Another 5 star read from Maisey Yates, I wanna move to Gold Valley.

Lindy Parker is a strong woman.  She wants what she wants when she wants it.  She does NOT want Wyatt Dodge.  Yet the same man occupies her every waking thought, her dreams and everything in between.  She can’t believe she is attracted to a bull rider.

Wyatt Dodge has been attracted to Lindy Parker for 5 years.  Since the first day he saw her walking toward him only to kiss his friend Damien and get introduced as his wife.  He can’t do anything about said attraction with his ranch on the line.  He has to find a way to work with her on the upcoming grand opening of his dude ranch or it will all be for nothing.

Lindy likes to be in charge, she likes order and structure.  Everything Wyatt is not.  Working with him is going to test her patience in more ways than one.  Now if she can only stop thinking about ripping his clothes off that’d be great.

Wyatt treats Lindy like a kid with a crush, teasing her and proverbially pulling her pigtails.  He makes and effort to call her Melinda, because no one else does.  He finds the verbal sparring keeps his mind off of wanting to kiss her senseless.  He has to stay focused on saving the ranch.

Lindy and Wyatt dance around their attraction like a Friday night hoedown but will they find out they work better as a team, in all areas of their relationship?

As with most of the books I’ve read by Maisey Yates, Good Time Cowboy makes me want to move to Gold Valley and find these families.  Ms. Yates writes such realistic characters that you can’t help but feel every part of the story as if you were side by side in the thick of things.  I received a copy of this story without expectation for review. Any and all opinions expressed are my own.

Picture Perfect by Krista Carleson ARC review

Picture Perfect: A Second Chance Secret Baby Romance by Krista Carleson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


One wild and crazy night, no last names, no real life information just passion. That was what Jessica and Noah agreed to one night years ago in Australia. They met while surfing, actually while crashing into one another. Went out for dinner and then “dessert” back in her hotel room. The next morning sent Noah back to his real life and Jessica finishing her trip around the globe. They didn’t exchange numbers so there was no chance to see each other again. Or was there?

4 years later finds Photographer Jessica on her way to an engagement party where she was hired to take engagement photos of the happy couple. Except that happy couple was ½ Noah who looked just a yummy as he did that one wild night.

Noah is just as surprised to see Jessica at his engagement party. It just cemented within himself that he couldn’t live a lie. He had to break up with Melanie, his father’s last wish was for him to marry her but he didn’t love her. Seeing Jessica again made him even surer of what he had to do.

But Jessica had a secret, a 4-year-old secret. She never planned to tell Noah but now that she has fallen for him again and can see a future as a family, can she honestly keep it from him.

After a little reworking this 4 1/2 star read has me anxious for more. I received an advance copy without expectation for review. Any and all opinions are my own. Overall I enjoyed this story, it was a quick read without feeling like I rushed through. Lots of hot sex scenes!! I have read quite a few books by Ms. Carleson and will continue to snag them up in the future. I think YOU will enjoy this second chance love with secret baby twist HEA too.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.



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A Snowbound Scandal by Jessica Lemmon ARC review

A Snowbound Scandal by Jessica Lemmon

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Chase Ferguson and Miriam “Mimi” Andrix knew each other 10 years ago. Very well as a matter of fact, but neither could survive in the other’s lifestyle. A Snowbound Scandal by Jessica Lemmon tells their story from 10 years later amid a possible mayoral scandal involving Chase and an old picture of activist Mimi.

Chase Ferguson is now Mayor in Dallas Texas. Miriam “Mimi” Andrix is from Bigfork Montana still an activist in her own right but more teacher than doer these days. They couldn’t still be more on the opposite sides of life if they tried. 10 years ago Chase and Mimi started a love affair that lasted all summer, until their social standings and callings got in the way and Chase let Mimi go.

All Chase has wanted to do since that moment was get her back but he knew he couldn’t bend her to fit into his life in Dallas, just as he couldn’t fit into her life in Montana. He did keep tabs on her and bought the mansion they used to fantasize about living in together one day. He regretted that decision all these years later and when a scandal threatens to expose that relationship and use it for harm, he goes to Bigfork in hopes of making it right.

Mimi has received notice of the scandal threat too, and may have even Googled Chase to see what his life had become. Heading to the grocery store for Thanksgiving supplies she never expected to run into him in Bigfork. He gives her his private number and she later invites him to Thanksgiving dinner, which he declines. She then makes it her mission to give him a piece of her mind and set him straight about just exactly who she is.

Chase and Mimi go round and round about the past and who is responsible or not. An unexpected snowstorm traps Mimi at the Mansion for days and they find they are not quite as over each other as they would want the other to believe.

In the end, they both decide to go their separate ways again to live the lives they are currently living, separate from the other. But will they finally give love a chance to overcome the biggest obstacles in their lives?

I received an advance copy from Netgalley without expectation for review. Any and all opinions expressed are my own.





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Bayside Heat (Bayside Summer) by Melissa Foster ARC review

Bayside Heat by Melissa Foster




Bayside Heat is book 3 in the Love in Bloom: Bayside Summers series. It was a wonderful love story from Melissa Foster earning 4.5 stars from this reviewer.

Drake Savage and Serena Mallery have known each other since they were children. Serena and her sister spent many days and nights with the Savage family, their daughter Mira and sons Drake and Rick. Serena and Mira are best friends and Serena has had a crush on Drake since she was a teenager.
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Drake has had a crush on Serena since she asked him to sing a duet with her one summer long ago. He knew he couldn’t hold her back from whatever dreams she was meant to accomplish so he had to be satisfied with having her as his best friend. Keeping her close without getting close was torture.

Serena and Drake work together at his family resort but when her dream designer job becomes available in Boston she realizes it is now or never to put her feelings on the table where Drake is concerned.

Drake realizes that he is about to lose the one person who knows him better than anyone else. He knows he can’t make her choose him over Boston but also knows he can’t live without her. He confesses his feelings and finds out she feels the same way.

Drake and Serena make their new long distance relationship work as well as they can. They travel the 2 hour drive back and forth to each other each chance they get but life gets in the way more than once. Serena finds herself questioning her decision to leave but not wanting to end up like her mother (following men around).

Serena and Drake each find that the one thing they want more than anything is to be together, but can they find a way to survive together in their new worlds?

I have read a few books by Ms Foster by now and this one keeps with the good love stories I’ve come to expect from her. I received an advance copy without expectations for review; any opinions expressed are my own. Not having read the first 2 in this series has my TBR list growing by two.



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His Banana by Penelope Bloom ARC review

His Banana by Penelope Bloom

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Natasha Flores was a grade A walking disaster. If a day went buy where she wasn’t late, covered in spilled food or walking into walls it was a dream. She lives in a crappy apartment she can’t afford, working at a small business paper trying to make her break in the journalism word. When her boss approaches her with the assignment of a lifetime, unlike the crap jobs he normally does, she feels this is her time to shine. Can she fake it til she makes it?

Bruce Chamberson, along with this twin brother, owns a quickly growing Advertising agency. Bruce, unlike his twin, is very structured, regimented and routine with his daily schedule and interactions. Every day before lunch he has a banana, a single banana he writes his name on and leaves in the employee lounge as a way of staying on the same page as his employees. One day he walks into the break room to find his banana in the mouth of an intern.

Natasha and Bruce embark on a teasing, quick wit, fast moving relationship that starts as Bruce being attracted to Natasha but not wanting to be so he tries to get her to quit her internship. Natasha being undercover on assignment can’t quit so she puts up with everything Bruce dishes out.

There joking quickly turns to flirting which turns to love in rapid fashion. Throw in a wild twin brother, a lazy homeless brother and a dog with a nervous tummy and you’ve got His Banana.

I’ve read a few books by this author and this is a break from her usual style, though not in a bad way. With all the heavy stuff in the world these days, it was nice to have a quick, lighthearted read with silliness and sarcasm vs draining plot lines. I received an advance copy without any expectation for review; any and all opinions expressed are my own. 4 stars for this happily ever after read by Ms. Bloom.



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Every Time We Fall In Love by Bella Andre ARC review

Every Time We Fall In Love by Bella Andre

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Harry Sullivan has always held it together, been the rock, the glue, the light in the darkness. None of those things were applicable when he answered his door one day.
Growing up the son of a famous father who mourned the death of his wife some 30 years later came with some struggles. Namely having a life outside taking care of his family. He would do anything for his family, including giving up his happiness for theirs.

Molly Connal didn’t have the close-knit family relationships that Harry did. She could barely see her grandparents let alone parents a few times a year from the time she went to boarding school in first grade. Starting a relationship with Harry and all that his life entailed was her best decision but also the hardest in the end.

Little did they know that almost 16 years after their break-up someone would draw them back together again. Can they make it work this time around?

Every Time We Fall in Love is not only a great second chance romance for Harry and Molly but also a second chance “love” story for William Sullivan as well. He had given up on painting when his wife died, changed careers and basically became a recluse. 3 decades later he finally sees clearly, realizes what he has lost, what has been sacrificed for him in the process and feels the stirring in his soul again to paint. He knows just what his first painting should be.

Harry and Molly approach their rekindled love with trepidation not wanting to repeat the mistakes of the past but also not wanting to live in the past. They both made mistakes, they both have regrets but they wouldn’t be the people they became without them. Becoming a new family is just the healing they all need to have a great future.

Once again Bella Andre weaves a love story full of hope and joy, but also pain and suffering. Humans make bad choices but our ability to rise above, live and learn is what helps us move forward in our life paths. I received an advance copy without expectation for review. Any and all opinions expressed are my own for this 5 star read. Years after my first Sullivan novel, I still would give anything to be a part of this close-knit family. I know I am certainly not alone in that sentiment.




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Author signing event in Pittsburgh Area ~ September 7-9 2018

Join facebook group below for more information about upcoming event. Lots of great authors listed as attending. Get your tickets today


https://www.facebook.com/groups/626611554213375/

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/authors-in-the-steel-city-tickets-30665597628

Going for Four by Erin Nicholas

Going for Four by Erin Nicholas

My rating: 5 of 5 stars





Olivia Dixon is the youngest of 4 sisters and 1 brother. Her family regards her as the “baby”, the “danty one”, the one to handle with kid gloves, or she might crack. Olivia would do anything for her sisters and especially her brother, including turning her back on the one man that is her perfect match.

Cody Madsen can’t believe his happily ever after is the little sister of his best friend. The same best friend who thinks he wouldn’t be able to offer anything but heartbreak to any woman he dates. Can he change everyone’s mind about who he really is?

Olivia and Cody have some mad chemistry, chemistry they both admit to but they have to keep under control so Connor doesn’t find out. They’ve made rule after rule to keep their thoughts totally clean toward one another. But those rules don’t mean a thing when Cody sees Olivia naked emerging from the bathroom. All cohesive thoughts go out the window at that point. They decide the only way to truly get over each other is to date other people. Olivia sets up a profile for each of them on a dating website and they both find matches. When Cody realizes he’s been stood up for his date he goes to leave the restaurant and sees Olivia. She realizes she’s been stood up too, they surmise that maybe they were matched with each other by the computer. Even the computer thinks they belong together. Will they keep their relationship hands off or go with the force that seems to be constantly pushing them together?

Cody and Olivia both want to keep Connor happy and risk his wrath if he finds out they are together. Together they realize that it isn’t just about making Connor happy or risking his disappointment. They have to come together and find a way to develop their relationship outside of their friendship. After some trickery, of course, using the dating app, some misunderstandings, awkward dating while loving someone else, a sex club (cue visit from Mac AND Dooley squeal), deep down soul confessions and a TON of chocolate chip cookies, they figure out they can definitely have the best of both worlds.

Going for Four continued a wonderful series involving the Dixon family (spun from the Bradford series) in which you get totally sucked into the family dynamics. These are people I would love to hang out with in real life. Ms Nicholas once again has you along for the ride of your life. I can’t recommend these 2 series’ enough. Just Everyday Heroes are just what I need in my every day life!!




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A Nice Day for a Cowboy Wedding by Nicole Helm ARC

A Nice Day for a Cowboy Wedding by Nicole Helm

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


It is always a nice day for a cowboy wedding…..Cora Preston is trying to make the best wedding happen for her clients even though every fiber in her body is telling her she will fail. She has worked hard to let go of the negative feelings she has for herself and her abilities but after so many years, it is easy to fall back into her old trappings. She has to do better, for her sister and the company, for her son and for herself. But can she trust herself to let success come without automatically expecting the worst?

Shane Tyler is a fixer, he fixes his ranch, his siblings, his mother. The one thing he couldn’t fix has haunted him is a secret from when he was 12 years old. When the pretty new wedding planner shows up at their ranch to help his Mom with her marriage he figures out a way to get this wedding stopped once and for all.

Cora and Shane are both coming into this with the same sort of back issues in their lives but from completely different places. Cora has nothing but fixers in her life while Shane has nothing but people needing saved in his. Or so they both think. On the wedding front, Shane wants to get his mother to see the man she wants to marry is wrong for her and Cora does everything in her power to make Shane see he is wrong. Can they work together to prove their respective points, while navigating this slippery slope, despite being wildly attracted to each other?

I have been a fan of Nicole Helm’s writing for a while now and this one certainly doesn’t disappoint earning 4 1/2 stars. I’m usually pretty good at figuring out a storyline and I was greatly relieved to see that one point I was sure would happen, did not. Cora and Shane though both appearing confident in themselves were very much the opposite and I liked the way they both realized they needed to make that change in themselves. Moms definitely do know best always, even flawed ones like Cora and Deb Tyler doesn’t miss a trick. Throw in the awesome Grandma Maisey, her sword collection and a possible love connection with Skeet in the future (please please) and this book is wonderfully all family.

I received an advance copy from Netgalley without any expectation for review. Any and all opinions expressed are my own. Another great read from Ms Helm and I can’t wait to read the next chapter(s) to come in Gracely, Colorado.




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Now I'm a writer?!

Some of you know that I've been reading for most of my life.  I officially starting reading books to other people at age 4.  I even used to hold a reading corner at my PreK to read to the other kids in my class.  I always, always have a book in hand or nearby me at all times. 

I think I've always written short stories too, you know those stories you write when you are young, about someone or something at school or even about your best friend.  Those stories that help you work out what ails ya.  I've even written some song lyrics too over the years. 

But I've never latched on to anything specific, one of my many downfalls, until recently.

I was approached about possibly writing a story for a new romance publisher.  Now this is all in planning stage, may not happen etc but it really got me thinking.  Why not?  Why couldn't I put these stories in my head down on paper and see what happens.  So that is what I'm currently doing.

I have 4 books in my head for a little mini series and we'll see how it goes.  I'm only about 15,000 words in on the first one but I feel like it is going ok.  I have much to learn and tons of room to grow but I'm excited to be on this new journey.

Now if anyone has any extra time to spare...........

Why I write reviews

The best way I know how to say thank you to an author after I've read their book is to leave a review.   Leaving a review (positive or negative) brings attention to the author's work and hopefully gets them more sales.  

So Thank You Authors

How to Keep A Secret by Sarah Morgan ARC review

How to Keep a Secret by Sarah Morgan

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


How to Keep a Secret is written in a different style than we normally see from Sarah Morgan. As with all her other novels, this one flows story to story without hesitation blending all 4 women’s stories into one overall story. Not leaving you feel like you are reading separate stories, another 5 star, well done for Ms. Morgan.

How to Keep a Secret follows the stories of Mom Nancy, a painter who barely had time for her daughters while they grew up. Sisters Jenna, who longs for a baby with her husband (maybe too much), Lauren, who’s husband unexpectedly dies leaving her in chaos with her teenage daughter Mack, who isn’t much into supporting her mother right now. They each are well versed in secret keeping, will they come together as one to tackle them head on.

Each woman has her own story to tell and each is told with passion, compassion, dignity and grace from both their own perspectives and as seen from those around them. Once again Ms. Morgan uses her pen and paper to draw us into this world, surrounding us with new friends who we fight for, care about and are sad when they leave us.

Nancy’s story could be a mother’s story from any age or perspective. She is the breadwinner and leaves the care of the girls up to their dad, “the fun one”. She feels like she has neglected them their whole lives and has no clue how to be there for them now. Having lost her husband 5 years ago she has become a shell of her former self. She has to do some major life adjustments and clean outs to get back to being herself again. Maybe even find love again.

Lauren is dealing with the loss of her husband as well, though in the present not the past as her mother is. She has lost the close connection with her teenage daughter Mack, and has absolutely no idea what happened to cause the rift. At her husbands funeral she finally finds out the reason behind Mack’s sudden departure. As she packs and moves back home to Martha’s Vineyard, can she find peace with her daughter once again?

Jenna has suffered her own personal losses as of late she can’t get pregnant. She has no idea why or how come, she just knows she wants a baby more than anything isn’t being afforded the opportunity. If one more well-meaning person tells her how great a mom she’d be when she finally decided to have a baby, she would spit nails. She’s decided the universe has not. Can her marriage to Greg withstand the constant pressure that comes from trying to make a baby and failing?

Mack is a confused, upset, lonely and borderline angry teenage girl. She just lost her dad Ed and is now having to move across the pond with her mother into her grandmother’s house on Martha’s Vineyard. Nothing about life is fair at this moment. Can she start over in a new place, with new friends and new family?

Ms. Morgan once again tells a beautiful story that has you so wrapped up in the lives of the characters you are quite upset that it has ended. I received a copy of the novel in advance without any expectations for review. Any and all opinions expressed are solely my own. I would advise you to run, not walk, to the nearest place that sells Ms. Morgan’s books and pick up a copy today.




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Bossing my Fake Fiance by Suzanne Hart ARC review

Bossing My Fake Fiance: A Brothers' Competition Romance by Suzanne Hart

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Bossing my Fake Fiancé by Suzanne Hart is a 4 star read for me.

Nothing brings 2 people together like a little revenge. Revenge sex is better. Revenge relationship the best yet. Gordon, Clark’s brother and Tessa’s ex boyfriend, has burned both Clark and Tessa. When Gordon falls for Clark’s ex wife, Clark gets the idea to lead Gordon and Celine to believe his has fallen for Tessa. What neither of them count on is them actually falling for each other.

Clark Webber is a divorced dad to 5-year-old Alfie. He picks up and moves them across the pond from England to Chicago to start a new life. He opens up a branch of his company in Chicago and his first order of business is to hire Tessa Munro. Hire her for a job she doesn’t know she is 100% uniquely qualified for.

Tessa Munro is just muddling through day to day. Life hit her hard about a year ago and she has slowly made her way forward. When a random call from a top company comes looking to interview her she can’t say no. She just doesn’t realize the position she is interviewing for.

Tessa and Clark agree to set up a fake relationship to get back at Gordon and Celine. She moves into his apartment and they start a life together. When Gordon and Celine show up early though, it throws a slight wrench into their plans.

Clark, Tessa and Alfie start to develop a closer family atmosphere while the adults try to maintain their charade to fool the masses. Clark’s ex wife Celine and brother Gordon do all they can to convince both Clark and Tessa that they are wrong for each other. Gordon believing Tessa still loves him and Celine convince both brothers will fight for her. Tessa thinks Clark still loves Celine so she gives up her claim and moves back home only to find Gordon waiting for her. When he attacks her again, Clark saves her once again.

Desperate Gordon and Celine grab Alfie and head to the airport to take him back to England. Thankfully they are stopped and Alfie is returned to his dad. Epilogue 1 and 2 show the couple professing their love and making weekend trips across the pond to each other.

This was a pretty quick read for me, but surprisingly didn’t feel overly rushed. I felt like the character development was ok, of course it didn’t dive too deep into pasts etc just enough to get a sense of the characters. I received an advance copy without any expectations for review. Any and all opinions are my own, and my opinion is to pick up a copy today. This is the third “Bossing” book I’ve ready by Ms. Hart and I’m more than satisfied with each.




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Charmed at First Sight by Sharla Lovelace ARC review

Charmed at First Sight by Sharla Lovelace

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Micah is all of us. Charmed at First Sight is the first book I’ve read by Sharla Lovelace. And can I just say, I want to move to Charmed, Texas sooooo badly.

Micah Roman is running, running in a wedding gown and stupid stiletto shoes, she’s a runaway bride. She doesn’t know what finally triggered her need for fight or flight but she needs to get as far away from Jeremy Blankenship and Cherrydale. She has somehow lost herself in the past almost decade of being with Jeremy and his controlling ways and needs to find herself, right now. Running from the church up Main Street, she sees a man on a motorcycle stop right in front of her. He seems to have a magnetic pull on her to go toward him and the motorcycle. She makes a split second decision to jump on the bike and head wherever the man is headed.

Leo McKane is headed to Charmed to start a new job and start over, hopefully, with someone from his past. When he drives through Cherrydale and is stopped at a light, a woman in a wedding dress makes eye contact with him. Crazy as it sounds he offers her a ride. Even stranger is the immediate chemistry he feels with her. What was he doing? He wasn’t looking for a relationship right now, too much was up in the air.

Micah is alone in a new town, with no money, no car, no house and meets some women who quickly befriend her. She hasn’t had true friends in a very long time. Leo doesn’t have as good of luck as she does though as the person he was looking forward to seeing isn’t excited to see him.
Micah and Leo have to navigate their way through a new town, new friends and new situations without losing their focus for their futures. Too bad they want to lose focus, and with each other. They find out in the course of one very, very long week that they have a friend in common, and they’re a few fries short of a happy meal as the saying goes. What exactly will this little tidbit of nostalgia mean for them moving forward? Or for the town of Charmed, Texas and her residents?

Micah is my new favor person, as is the phrase holy shitwaffles. I think this is the book I’ve been waiting for my whole life. Micah is quirky, Micah is honest, Micah is a hot mess. She is all of us. She speaks a common truth that most authors shy away from writing. Morning breath is not ok……..

I received an advance copy of this novel without any expectations for review. All opinions expressed are my own. I would HIGHLY advise you to one click, order, ship, drive to bookstore to get a copy of Charmed at First Sight today. My only regret is how my bank account is going to suffer having to purchase all the other works by Ms. Lovelace. Not a bad problem to have I’d guess.




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Light as Air by Mari Carr and Jayne Rylon ARC review

Light as Air by Mari Carr

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Light as Air by Mari Carr and Jayne Rylon is the 4th and apparently final book in the Compass Boys series. The Compass Ranch series has had 12 books since 2010 and this final one wraps up the storyline. This is the first book I’ve read by either author and it was a good one to start with. Note: Light as Air is a MMF read so if that isn’t your thing don’t one click haha. 4.25/5 for this read and these new to me authors.

Doug Compton has known what he wanted to be when he grew up his whole life. One short, stupid second when he was 16 years old changes that forever. He also realizes at that same time he may want something he may not be able to have.

Thornton Joshua Nicholas III “TJ” lost his mom at age 11 and has been trying to live up to the promise he made on her deathbed. Doug is his best friend and he wants to be there for him no matter what. Is friendship all he feels though? When Doug invites him on the job of a lifetime he sees his way out of the hell his life has become.

Rosalia is a tough storm chaser from a big Italian family. Up until recently, or maybe even still, classified herself as a nerd. Doug had been flirting for months, she jokingly called him her “work husband”. She likes him but has a strict no mixing work and pleasure rule, so she is shocked to find herself attracted to TJ as well.

Doug, TJ and Rosalia take a slow journey together to discover not only their true selves but what each other longs to experience. It is a wonderful love story, not only about lovers but friends with a deep caring for each other. Love is Love, it is as simple as that.
I received an advance copy from Netgalley without any expectation for review. I’m only sorry I’ve come so late to the Compass Ranch party. Now comes the task of ordering all the previous novels. A readers work is never done!!!




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Anything for Love by Melissa Foster ARC review

Anything for Love by Melissa Foster

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Full disclosure: While I have a bunch of Melissa Foster novels on my TBR shelf, Anything for Love is the first I’ve been able to read. First I must say I love the “A Note to Readers” section at the beginning of this novel. This short section not only explains how we’ve met these characters in previous books but reading series applicable or standalone, quick history of the people involved and more. I don’t know if she does this in all her books but bravo. Ok on to the review of Anything for Love which earned a 4.5/5 from this reader.

Beau Braden is just looking to get away, away from the yearly reminder that he failed. His hometown gets too “remembery” during this time of year and feels the need to comfort him way too often. A chance to head out of town to help refurbish an old home for family and friends comes at the perfect opportunity.

Charlotte Sterling is a well-known writer in a creative slump. She can’t figure out a way to get the creative juices flowing again. That is until Beau shows up on her doorstep. This is interactive research to the fullest and Charlotte is taking every opportunity to have first hand knowledge of her newest research aide.

Charlotte and all the quirkiness she exudes confuses Beau. He can’t quite figure her out and is not sure if she is actually interested in him or just playing some game with his feelings. Not willing to go down some pretend road with her, even as sexy as she is, leads him to keep her at a distance (which is easy given her constant writing in her office). Nighttime dreams are an entirely different matter though, darn subconscious.

Charlotte loves looking at Beau and gaining all she can for her research. She hasn’t felt the words flow this easily in a long time, if not forever. Having Beau around is great for her work production, and also great for her lady parts. She can’t remember the last time she was so attracted to someone.

Charlotte and Beau are both coming from a place of pain and failure. While they both feel like they let someone important to them down, they are both dealing with this feeling of failure in different ways. Charlotte, hiding behind her writing, keeps memories close to her residing in her grandfathers home while Beau keeps his own shield up to protect himself from getting involved again and fleas memories before they take hold. Together they may be able to find a way to help each other move past their past mistakes and find something as beautiful as the acres of land that Charlotte is living on.

The author gives great descriptions throughout the book, about the landscape, houses, rooms and Charlotte’s writing process. I can clearly picture those blow up dolls and other toys and tools. I felt like a part of the book, not just like I was reading it alone. I received an advance copy of this novel without any expectation for review. All opinions expressed are solely my own. I will however now need to find extra time in the day to get reading all the other novels I own by Ms. Foster.





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Welcome

Hi and welcome to all the new views and followers I've gained recently. I appreciate you stopping by. I started this blog about 9 years ago and it has been a venting board over the years for just about everything. Most recently I started using it as a place to post my book reviews. I love to read and over the past few years I have been lucky enough to be chosen to review advance copies of books (books not yet published) by a bunch of authors and some that are really high profile. To say it is a dream come true is a huge understatement. I was recently able to attend a author/reader event in Ohio and I am so grateful. Now that my kids are getting older it gives me more time during the day to read and review, and thankfully they love to read too. They are both hard at work writing stories for me daily, it is adorable. Anyway, welcome and I hope you enjoy and stick around for the ride!!!
Carma

Bad Reputation by Stefanie London ARC review

Bad Reputation by Stefanie London

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Bad Reputation by Stefanie London is the first book I’ve read by this author after meeting her briefly at a reader event in June 2018. Bad Reputation is the 2nd book in this series but not having read the first one before diving into this one hasn’t really affected my enjoyment of this novel. The theme of the first 2 books centers around an app called Bad Bachelor, which essentially allows people to rate and review dates online. The first book set the stage for this continuation of story with Wes being the target of reviews online.

Wes is the son of famous dance parents. He has lived in the world of ballet and dance his entire life. He wants to break free of his family name and legacy and start something on his own, he leaves the family business much to the chagrin of his very opinionated mother. He comes up with an idea for an off-off broadway show that will engage the audience right into the middle of the show. Now all he needs are investors and a star dancer for the female lead. With a website posting reviews about his “manhood” threatening to derail any hope of funding he needs to find a way to get his show off the ground.

Remi is an ex ballerina currently living in New York teaching ballet class at her friends studio. She has dream of opening her own studio now that her career in the dance world looks to be over. A chance meeting at one of her parent/kid classes has her reconsidering giving up on her dream. But can she put her past mistakes behind her and not head down the same ruining road of disaster.

I really enjoyed the dynamic of Wes and his mother, his father was pretty much talked about not actually to during this novel. Wes was trying his hardest to show his mother that he can make it on his own, without being a disappointment to the family name, while waiting for her to dish out an “I told you so”.

I wasn’t sure I liked the gossip articles, review blurbs etc that were at the beginning of each new chapter. At the beginning they were very distracting, but as the story went on they really added to and became part of the story. I received an advance copy from the publishers without any expectation for review. Any and all opinions expressed are solely my own. I can’t wait to read many more books from Stefanie London, starting with Bad Bachelor (Book 1 in this series)




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The Army Ranger's Surprise by Donna Michaels ARC review

The Army Ranger's Surprise by Donna Michaels

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


The Army Ranger’s Surprise is part of the At-Ease Ranch series by Donna Michaels, but according to the blurb it can be read as a standalone. I have not read any other titles in this series and I can agree that this read pretty well as a standalone. There is some reference as well as interaction with previous characters and I only felt a little lacking in knowing Leo’s past actions getting him to the point he was currently.

Leo Reed is a restless former soldier dealing with PTSD. With the help of his friends he was finally able to get therapy to deal with his tragic past. He still has trouble feeling worthy enough to fit in and make his friends proud, he has trouble accepting that they don’t need to carry him through life. When he agrees to keep an eye on his grandmother while his Mom is out of town helping his sister, he quickly realizes he has an even better motivation to visit Grams, in the form of neighbor Kaydee Wagner. He is attracted to Kaydee but getting involved means talking about the past and he knows if she ever finds out about his past she would leave him faster than anything.

Kaydee Wagner gave up her home to move with her grandfather into a duplex in the small town of his choosing. She promised her parents she would take good care of him until they could get back home in 2 years, after her father’s time was up in the army. Restless is Kaydee’s middle name, rarely staying in one place very long, but she knows she needs to do this for her family. And having Leo Reed visit his grandmother every week just adds to the appeal. He helped them move into the house and she was enamored from the word Hi. But getting involved means getting out of her comfort zone, could she actually be able to be someone’s girlfriend. She was horrible at it, but for Leo she would give it a good shot. But she can tell he is holding back, can she get him to let go?

Leo and Kaydee both suffer from a restless energy inside them and it will take a lot for them to let go of that feeling and be free to stay together. When they find themselves in an unexpected situation they both realize they need to let that edge go so they both can move forward in life. I enjoyed Grandma Ava and Grandpa Nate as secondary characters. As well as Fiona and all the At-Ease boys and the girls that love them. Even Lula Belle the cow has a good storyline haha. I’m glad I ended up receiving an advance copy of this novel, I will definitely be looking up the other titles to add those to my bookshelf. Any opinions expressed are my own; no expectation for review was ever expressed or required.



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Cowboy SEAL Christmas by Nicole Helm ARC review

Cowboy SEAL Christmas by Nicole Helm

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Love and a Llama, how can a book get any better than this?! Cowboy Seal Christmas is the 3rd book in the Navy Seal Cowboy series (a sort of spin off of Helm’s Big Sky Cowboy series). I have not read the first 2 books in this series (time constraints and a overwhelming TBR pile but I did read all the books in the Big Sky Cowboy series). This book has all the elements I loved from those books and more. Nicole Helm has a way of getting you right into the moment as if you were standing right there alongside the characters. 5/5 for Grouchy Gabe!!!

Gabe Cortez is a grouchy, ex Navy SEAL who hates Christmas. He hates most things actually and is more than happy to tell you how much it all sucks. He had a horrible childhood that led to him entering the military and losing a good friend in one horrifying instance. He comes to Revival ranch with his 2 friends, Jack and Alex, to help start a new program for injured military servicemen and women to get back on their feet. Jack and Alex both find love (spoiler for the first 2 books haha) and he is once again the odd man out. Then he meets the new ranch therapist Monica Finley and hope starts to rise in him again.

Monica Finley is looking forward to working with all the men and women headed to Revival Ranch for therapy and help getting back to civilian life. Growing up with a Marine father suffering from PTSD has helped her understand some of the struggles men and women face upon returning home. She has a 10 year old son named Colin, with her late Air Force husband Dex, who is her entire world. She protects him, well overprotects, as well as she can as a single mother and is hoping the closeness of the ranch will help them all start a new life. Gabe has been the only one to deny needing therapy and keeps his distance from her both literally and figuratively. She has to find a way to crack his shell. Can Gabe help her understand not only his struggles but some of her own struggles since her husband died?

This story flows really well from start to finish. I was able to get a great idea of where Monica and Gabe are in their lives as well as some past situations that have molded their current state of mind. Throw in great friends (who meddle), a Montana snowstorm, being snowed in for days without heat (snuggle alert), past secrets, daily questions (1 for her, 2 for him) and a llama and you have pretty much the perfect love story. Nicole Helm once again draws me into her cowboy world and makes me sad to leave when the story ends.




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Slate by Stella Marie Alden ARC review

Slate by Stella Marie Alden

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


My dreams have finally come true, the stars and planets have aligned, Slate has his own book. I have been hoping and praying, reading the 3 previous releases by Stella Marie Alden having Slate as a secondary character, that he would get his own book and yay he does.

Slate is the bodyguard and head security officer for Grayson Patten, wife Isabelle and daughter Skye. He has been protecting Grayson, Izzy and Skye for at least the past year while keeping Xavier Cross off their tail. He took a bullet in the last novel, The CEO’s Redemption, saving everyone from Xavier and has been ordered to recuperate. And he begrudgingly does so until a dog shows up on his doorstep. He needs to find a dog walker as he can’t do anything with his healing shoulder and in walks Lilac.

Lilac is studying to be a doctor, her family has disowned her after “the incident” and she is struggling to make it both financially and academically. She gets a call about a live in dog walker position and jumps at the chance to not have to worry about where she will sleep next for a minute. She gets situated into her temporary cottage home and is surprised when Slate not only breaks into the house but is totally nude doing so.

Slate has suffered a loss in his past that makes him leery to find love again, and he is genuinely surprised at how quickly he develops feelings for Lila with a C. She feels the same way about Slate, after “the incident”, she doesn’t think she’ll be able to be with a man let alone envision a future with one.

Throw in a murder mystery, a cute rambunctious puppy and shady police officers and you have a great novel by Stella Marie Alden. I must confess, I enjoyed Slate about 100% more than I enjoyed the CEO series (featuring Grayson Patten and Isabella Harte). I feel like this book was written by a different author as it is a total different style than I had been used to with the 3 previous CEO books. I wish all the previous books had been written in this style, the others felt rushed and jumbled at time, just all around too confusing. This novel stayed the course, while it read quickly I didn’t feel like I read quickly.




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Cooper's Charm by Lori Foster ARC review

Cooper's Charm by Lori Foster

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Phoenix is a girl trying to start and new life and Cooper’s Charm looks to be just the place to make that happen. She pulls up for a job interview and her life changes for the better at first glance around the campground. She is confident she can forget all that life has thrown at her recently, be strong and confident again and move on with her life.

Cooper is basically hiding in his own campground. His life was drastically turned upside down and he doesn’t want to open himself up to that kind of pain and heartache again. Until he sees Phoenix and all his notions of bachelorhood fly out of his conscience.

Phoenix and Cooper are basically the same person in that they are both trying to start life over after a painful experience but are too shy/scared to let it happen. Once they both let down their guards a little and just let life happen they realize they make a pretty good team.

I loved the secondary characters in this book, from her sister coming to stay at the campground (think glamping at first) to the men hired to help around the campground chasing the ladies. Each has their own story and background woven in but never overwhelming the main storyline of Cooper and Phoenix.

I’m so happy to have read this story, another winner for Lori Foster. It was a quick summer read that reminds you why you appreciate Lori Foster and all she does to grab us and take us on an amazing ride with her characters each and every time she writes a book.




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Bossing my Dirty Enemy by Suzanne Hart ARC review

Bossing My Dirty Enemy by Suzanne Hart

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Lisa is young, or so everyone keeps telling her. Her dad wants her to come into the family business with him so that one day she can take over and he can retire. All Lisa wants to do is travel the world and figure out how she wants to live her life. She tells her dad she is packed and ready to go overseas and he basically freezes her out. She head to Ireland where her whole life changes in an instant.

Julian has wanted payback on Mr. Since he was 15 years old. He vowed to make enough money that one day he could buy out Mr. Crowley, Crowley Holdings and take over anything he holds dear. Now is the time, Crowley Holdings is being offered as stock share sale and he wants to become majority owner. He heads to their offices to finally see his oldest nemesis face to face and give him the bad news that only Julian can save his company. Who he meets with instead throws him for a curve.

Julian is confused by Lisa meets with him instead and can’t get a straight answer as to where exactly her father is. He tries to fight his attraction to his enemy’s daughter but finds himself unable to deny his heart.

I enjoyed the interaction between Julian and Lisa. Even with the age difference she seems older in their interactions and that helps eliminate the difference in my head. Fighting their true desires once they find out the true past they share becomes quite a load to handle. In the end I’m glad Mr. Crowley sees the error of his ways and clears up some misunderstandings between all parties.

Another great read from Suzanne Hart for my collection. I received a copy without any expectation for review, all opinions expressed are my own. I would recommend you pick up a copy as soon as you can, it is a pretty quick read but not rushed by any means.






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