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REVIEW

Forecasting the Forward by Jennifer J. Williams

Mile High Sports  #1

Fun, thought provoking, immersive read that grabbed me and then held on till the last page ~ First time reading this author but it won’t be my last!

What I Liked:

* Jacob Mitchell: professional hockey player, only child, difficult childhood, good friend, leader, problem solver,  strong, athletic, nearing the end of his professional life, wise about money, has interesting pets, attracted to Becca

* Rebecca Stephens: meteorologist, difficult childhood, word filter sometimes missing, professional, bright, dedicated, dog owner, needs time to process, aversion to athletes…especially hockey players…until Jacob changes her mind

* Getting to know some of the athletes and coaches that may show up in future books of the series

* The the texting that took place before Jacob and Becca actually meet…and then continues afterward

* How open Jacob is and his ability to get Becca to open up – in more ways than one

* That I became involved with the characters and was rooting for them to find a way to be together

* The way Jacob was there for Becca when she had to attend a family funeral…and what transpired afterward

* That I could see the two main characters together as they were well matched and perfect fro oen another

* Knowing that there are more books to look forward to in the series

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like

* The difficulties both main characters experienced related to their families

* Thinking about how “puck bunnies” and other groupies and how warped their thinking must be

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Definitely

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

BLURB

The forecast didn’t call for a hockey player with an affection for guinea pigs… I’m not your typical meteorologist. Sure, I might look extroverted on television, but inside, I’m an anxious thirty-something woman who’d love to be anywhere except a public setting. My love for the weather runs deep from when I was a kid in Indiana, so when I’m finally working as the chief meteorologist for a station in Denver, I’m happy. Well, mostly. Enter Jacob Mitchell. A star forward for the NHL’s Denver Wolves, I knew who he was when I literally ran into him on a busy downtown street. As charismatic as he is attractive, Jacob checks off every red flag I have. Sports star? Red flag! Hot? Big red flag! Flirtatious as all get out? Enormous red flag. When we keep running into each other, I’m surprised to learn there’s so much more to Jacob than meets the eye. The man has an entire bedroom set up for his six guinea pigs! But after going out of his way to rescue me from a horrible family situation, I find myself whisked off to Las Vegas to say I Do. Jacob says it’s to keep me safe. But what happens to my heart when he no longer has to play the role of my protective faux-husband? Forecasting the Forward is a hockey, marriage of convenience, forced proximity, and found family romance in an interconnected series. It features a golden retriever hockey star and the reserved meteorologist he falls for. It includes spice, banter, and a guaranteed happily ever after that will have you swooning.

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REVIEW

The Whitechapel Widow by Emily Organ

Emma Langley Victorian Mystery #1

Intriguing, intricately plotted, ingenious murder mystery ~ Great introduction to a new series

What I Liked: * Emma Holland Langley: piano teacher, recently married, parents & brother deceased, husband disappears then is found murdered, curious, invested in finding her husband’s killer

* Penny Green Blakely: happily married with two young children, retired investigative reporter, puzzle solver, strong, works well with Emma on the case

* James Blakely: Penny’s husband, Scotland Yard Detective Inspector, loving father & husband, supportive, intelligent, protective, good man

* The Solomons: Landlords, took Emma in when her husband disappeared, good people

* The murder mystery of who killed William Langley and why he was murdered

* The way Emma and Penny went about their investigation

* The twists and turns along with some red herrings

* The plot, pacing, setting and writing

* The glimpse into life in this time period

* Being able to dislike the baddies and want them brought to justice

* Reading a new-to-me author and enjoying her work

* Wanting to say more but not wanting to give the plot away

* Wanting to know what happens next…

What I didn’t like:

* Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about the criminals and the crimes they committed along with how many people were harmed

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

BLURB

London hunts the Ripper. A widow hunts her husband's killer. London, 1888. While Jack the Ripper's reign of terror grips the city, Emma Langley's world shatters when her husband is found murdered in Whitechapel. But grief is quickly overshadowed by a startling William Langley was not the man she thought she knew. As panic fills London's streets, Emma delves into her husband's secret life, uncovering a web of lies that stretches from glittering society drawing rooms to the seedy gambling dens of the East End. Aided by Penny Green, a former reporter with a nose for trouble, Emma follows a trail of blackmail and corruption. But exposing her husband's killer could make her the next victim and in the shadows of gaslit streets, a murderer waits, ready to strike again… From the bestselling author of Penny Green comes a spellbinding new Victorian mystery series introducing Emma Langley.

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REVIEW

The Courtesan’s Protector by Jess Michaels

About an Earl #4

Love at first sight but slow burn for years ~ Perfect story to brighten this cool gray day!

What I liked: * The prologue that sets the stage for the romance that will follow

* Janie Kendall: courtesan, protective of her younger sister, difficult childhood, supportive of friends, perfect for and with Campbell

* Campbell Ripley: retired pugilist, owner of boxing club, highly esteemed, protective, never acknowledged by his father, loved his mother, perfect for and with Jane

* That both Jane and Ripley are not of the upper class, are honest about their life choices, accept and support one another, and could find true happiness together

* Finding out about Jane’s sister and the part she and Hugo played in the story

* Learning more about both main characters, their pasts, and their families

* The love that is there between Campbell and Jane and how they finally act upon the chemistry between them

* The part of the story where Ripley meets Esme and how he stepped in to help                                                                                                                                       

* Thinking about the happy joyful future Cam & Jane will have together

* All of it really except…

What I didn’t’ like:

* Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking the Jane’s mother and Ripley’s biological father and how they were not there for their children

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the ARC – This is my honest review

5 Stars

BLURB

Readers have been waiting for this ultra-romantic book from 10-Time USA Today Bestselling Author Jess Michaels. Former champion pugilist Campbell Ripley has been fascinated by Jane Kendall since the first time he saw her in the middle of a fight and she distracted him enough to cause his famous scar. But people like Jane and Ripley are jaded and know that a happily ever after isn’t for them. The kind of powerful connection they feel can only cause pain and danger. So they’ve become friends and that’s all it can be. Until Jane receives word that her beloved younger sister, who she has been protecting from her life as a courtesan, has vanished. She turns to Ripely for help and the two embark on a journey to find her that will finally break down walls, allow for powerful passions and perhaps even heal more than mere physical scars. If only the two of them can let each other in and start to trust that the friendship they share and the desire they can no longer fight is actually a love that will change them both for the better. This is the fourth book in the About An Earl series and can be read as a standalone.

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REVIEW

Blood on the Vine by J.T.  Falco

Excellent ~ Couldn’t put it down!

What I Liked:

* Lana Burrell: FBI Agent, lost her mother when young, Father in prison for life, focused on work, tenacious, bright, problem solver, somewhat closed off at first, attracted to Caleb

* Essie Leroux: Sheriff’s Deputy, married, older, baker, talker, wise, paired with Lana on the case

* Caleb Roche: winery owner and wine maker, a bit quirky, open, honest, attracted to Lana

* The location in Napa wine country

* The twisty plot with more than one new and old murder mystery to be solved

* The plot and pacing with great story telling

* The relationship between Lana and her husband and how the connected

* The way the threads of the story all wove together through the story and were tied up neatly by the end

* Finding out who the murderer was and glad that they were caught

* Learning about biodynamic farming – the history of it, the part it played in the story, and the tie-in to Mystica Aeterna group

* The hopeful ending with so much to look forward to

* Reading a new author and loving his work

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about wealthy families and their sense of entitlement

* Not being able to tell you everything I liked about the story for fear of giving something away ;)

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Definitely

Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC – This is my honest review. .

5 Stars

BLURB

Between the shadowed rows of grapevines at a California vineyard, deadly secrets grow ripe and blood-red in this twisting thriller perfect for fans of Lisa Gardner. FBI Agent Lana Burrell grew up on an idyllic Napa Valley vineyard with her best friend Jess–until Jess was murdered at the same vineyard they called home. Lana’s father is serving a life sentence for Jess’s murder, but Lana has always believed in his innocence–and has always wanted to know the truth about what really happened to her childhood friend. Lana gave up the chance to exonerate her father for a career with the FBI, but when a killer strikes the Valley again, those old wounds reopen and she grasps at the chance to solve the case that has haunted her entire life. Two women are slain near where Jess’s body was once found, and Lana is forced to revisit the site of the fraught childhood she tried to leave behind. Forced to partner with the local sheriff’s office that put her father in prison, and to reconnect with the wealthy family that runs a powerful wine dynasty, Lana fights the distraction of old flames and grudges reignited. With clues of a shadowy cult embedded at the center of wine country, and a mysterious stranger stalking her every move, Lana’s hope to solve the murders begins to have a darker the fear that she might be the next to die.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Joey (J.T.) Falco is an author, screenwriter, and showrunner who recently wrapped up a four-year run on the CW’s CHARMED, during which he rose through the ranks to become Co-Showrunner. He currently has an adaptation of the Goldie Taylor novel, PAPER GODS, in development at Netflix with Angela Bassett attached to star, and his first feature, a romantic comedy called COMMON PEOPLE, is in development at Amazon with Berlanti Productions. Meanwhile, his debut novel, BLOOD ON THE VINE, is set to be released on April 22, 2025, by Crooked Lane Books, and has already been optioned by Gaumont for TV development. Recently, he served as creator/showrunner of a pilot for ABC—a legal procedural called JUDGEMENT, starring Sarah Shahi and Reid Scott, and directed by Paul McGuigan. He started his career on the writing staff of shows like HEROES REBORN, SLEEPY HOLLOW, and TREADSTONE, and has developed original series with Amazon, Peacock, the CW, and USA. He’s also a three-time JEOPARDY champion, a Humanitas Prize winner, a WSET Level 2 sommelier, and a father of two.

Website:  https://www.jtfalco.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joey_t_falco/

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REVIEW

The Reluctant Sheriff by Chris Offutt

Mick Hardin #4

Mick Hardin had dreams for his future, but none have played out as he had envisioned. He has focused on caring for, protecting, and supporting others to the point that by the end of this book I am wishing him some quiet time on his own to regroup, determine what he really wants, and perhaps find it though his future dream(s) may not be anything like his original ones.

What I liked: * Mick Hardin: retired Army CID officer, born and raised in the Kentucky hills the story is set in, knows the culture and local code, has an interesting moral compass, protective, puzzle solver, intelligent, lethal, someone I would want on my side, a bit of a loner, finds peace in the woods, a good man who deserves more than he has found so far.

* Raymond: ex-marine, in relationship with JC, strong, lethal, focused, intriguing, someone I would want with me in a dangerous situation, takes on job as a deputy when Mick asks him to

* Linda Hardin: town sheriff, Mick’s sister, intelligent, professional, a bit of a loner, good leader, injured on the job in the last book and on medical leave, wondering what her future holds in store for her

* Johnny Boy Toliver: deputy to Sherrif Hardin, in Corsica to regroup, has an alternating storyline in Corsica while the rest of the story unfolds in Kentucky, curious to find out what his future will be

* How the community values and expectations play such a big part in the stories in this series * The way directions are given when one has to find a location in the hills * Police procedural aspects of the story, where they led, and how the various cases were tied up and dealt with by the end of the book

* Sebastien & Nikki: people that were part of Mick’s past life that show up in this book – eager to see what parts they will play in the future

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* That I was drawn into the story, cared about the characters, and was invested in the outcome

* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like:

* Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about the many secrets Mick and wishing he didn’t have to

* Thinking about the impact of choices some made and how choice impacts people and their future

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Definitely

Thank you to NetGalley and Grove Press for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

FROM AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR CHRIS OFFUTT The Reluctant Sheriff is Chris Offutt's fourth book featuring Mick Hardin. Back in the familiar setting of the Kentucky hills, Mick Hardin returns standing in as the sheriff while the previous sheriff, his sister Linda, recuperates from a gunshot wound sustained in the line of duty. Living in Linda's house in Rocksalt, Mick finds himself entwined in the trials and tribulations of being a sheriff in the perturbing Kentucky community. Unable to retire from a world of dubiousness and violence, Mick Hardin is back with determination to deliver retribution. A dark and fierce return to the Kentucky hills, where nothing is what it seems. 'This is a marvellous series… These have become must-reads for me and I enjoy every minute of the reading experience'Deadly Pleasures 'Beautifully descriptive... Offutt's Mick Hardin novels are powerful books that feature characters with questionable ethics' Library Journal 'Righteous Kentucky noir... I gulped it down, relishing the burn' Ian Rankin on Shifty's Boys

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REVIEW

The Island of Misfortune by Jackson Kuhl

An intriguing sounding story that I tried to read but found my device unable to navigate…or perhaps my glasses not able to magnify the type of sufficiently to make reading easy and enjoyable. The story parts that I sampled from beginning, middle, and end were well written, engaging, and made me WANT to read the story but my eyes told me that they were not up to it…sadly.

Thank you to NetGalley and Regal House Publishing for the ARC This is my honest review (based in a limited sampling.

4 Stars

BLURB

In the summer of 1898, Sequoia Owen accepts an invitation from his estranged uncle to visit his family’s summer home on Todeket, a private island off the Connecticut coast. Yet the house, constructed by Sequoia's unstable grandfather and the site of his cousin's mysterious death, is a strange place. None of his odd relatives, who seem to have sinister agendas of their own, can agree upon the origin of the house, nor do they all believe the sightings of a ghost that haunts its halls, said to appear before tragedy strikes. Trapped on the island by a storm, Sequoia must unravel the enigma of Todeket before the next life lost is his own.

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REVIEW

Turn On by Darcy Burke

Ribbon Ridge #8

~ Two people with trust issues that have sworn off relationships find a way to find their happily ever after but only after coming to grips with a few truths they might not have wanted to face ~

This book continues the Ribbon Ridge series with the first of four men who have gone into business together attending a big wine event to share their first attempts at creating their own brand of wine. My gues sis that Cam and his brothers will each star in the next three stories and that there could be more books to look forward to after the three if there are more people still unmarried by that time.

Camreron and Brooke both work in the wine industry, have past heartbreak due to relationships gone bad, and are guarded emotionally. Brooke has a secret that is not easy to share and that is something my niece faced while trying to start her own family. It makes me wonder if perhaps life is not as easy as it once was and expectations will not be as easily met and dreams fulfilled as they once were.

This is a series filled with good friends, loving family, and tells the story of two people that deserve love, want to create a family, and together…if they can figure it out…will find their future happiness together.

I look forward to reading the next book in the series after enjoying this book immensely.

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

BLURB

Cameron Westcott has spent eight years recovering from heartbreak by keeping romantic entanglements casual and simple. He’s never minded being called a manwhore, but after two years immersing himself in his new winery, he might be ready for the next chapter. Especially when he meets a sexy wine distributor—only she says she isn’t interested. Following a bitter divorce, Brooke Ellis relocated to Ribbon Ridge to rebuild her life. Things will never be the same for her, and she’s coming to terms with that reality when she meets charming, persistent Cam. She can’t imagine a happy ever after given his reputation, but he makes her feel so good. As the sparks between them intensify, they’re both hesitant to commit for very different reasons. Or are they really just sabotaging their own futures? If they can trust each other—and themselves—they may realize that what they share is too good to let slip away.

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REVIEW

Let Me Be the One by Lori Foster

Family Ties #1

Wonderful way to begin a series ~ Couldn’t put it down ~ Put a smile on my face.

What I liked: * Tanner Patrick: strong, resilient, bright, dedicated, loving, kind, supportive, had an abusive childhood, saved by Addie, paying it forward, facing the crush of his youth and unsure of his future but has big dreams

* Callie McCallahan: intelligent, loving, kind, generous, smart, influencer, broke with her fiancé for valid reasons, strong, resilient, focused, ready to stake her claim on her own live and future

* Blue: German Shepherd, Tanner’s his human, fun presence in the story

* Addie: Foster mother of Tanner & Kam

* Kam:  a bit younger than Tanner, foster brother, brother by choice not blood, welder, fun, outgoing, intriguing, want to know more about him

* Glory: Callie’s cousin, insecure, eager to please, bright but cowed, hope she has a book later and hope to read it

* Dirk & Lang Garmet: neighbors with shady reputation but more than they seem on first glance

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* That Callie was able to break away from her parents force field and will be able to pursue her own goals and future

* All of it except…

What I didn’t lie:

* Who and what I was meant not to like

* The manipulative family members that put their monetary and social status before the welfare of their children

* Having to wait for book 2 in the series

Did I Enjoy this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

BLURB

She’s more than the girl next door. She’s the one who got away. When Callie McCallahan left for the big city, she had a plan. Since then, she’s had some bumps in the road, most recently her failed business and engagement. When she inherits her uncle’s Kentucky farm, it’s the perfect do-over. With her social media skills, she’ll attract a whole new following and refresh her career. The only thing is…she knows nothing about farming. For Tanner Patrick, Callie was the one who got away. He crushed on her in high school, but she barely knew he existed. Ten years later, she’s moved back—and now she lives next door. Tanner keeps his head down and focuses on his family’s tree farm. But when he sees Callie is afraid of chickens and can’t run a tractor—and looking pretty down-to-earth and happy—Tanner finds her impossible to ignore.

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REVIEW

Husband Missing by Lisa Regan

Detective Josie Quinn # 22

Intense intricately plotted superbly told roller coaster ride from beginning to end ~ Couldn’t put it down!

What I liked:

* Josie: homicide detective, survivor with huge backstory in the previous books, wife to Noah, strong, resilient, intelligent, team player, compartmentalizes, has much to deal with this time

* Noah: police department lieutenant, Josie’s husband, calm, wise, good leader, sees the big picture, good man, kidnapped and time is ticking while they search for him

* Catching up with characters from previous books in the series, being reminded of their parts in the past, and wondering how they will show up in the future * The glimpse into Josie’s biological family, how they are doing, how protective they are of one another, and how there are there for Josie when Noah is kidnapped * Kyle Turner: relatively new hire, difficult, inappropriate, glued to his phone, seems a misfit for the team…but also seems to have a backstory I want to hear…and he is growing on me ;)

* The twists and turns and complexity of this book

* The deeper look into the backstory of the woman that kidnapped Josie when she was a baby – I had to draw a family tree in the end and realized how twisted things really were

* The police procedural aspects with the intense methodical work going back to the past to solve current crimes

* The love between Noah and Josie and how strong it is

* The last page with the visitor who arrived ~ Can’t wait to see what happens next!

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant to dislike

* Thinking about how evil some people are and then wondering if it is to do with nature or nurture and how they could live without remorse for some of the things they did

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Definitely

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

Fear prickles her skin. “Noah?” Photos and trinkets from their simple but perfect life together litter the carpet. The coffee table is cracked, blood along its edges. She should be taking in details, but her heart is racing too fast. A strangled cry works its way from Josie’s chest. Where is her husband? Detective Josie Quinn’s world shatters when she returns home to find her house ransacked, and her husband, Noah, missing. When she kissed him goodbye hours earlier, called to the discovery of a woman’s body at a protest, they were putting the finishing touches to a nursery for their first adopted child. But now the house is empty, Noah’s bloodied handprints trailing the walls. Every fiber of Josie’s being screams to investigate. But her team warn her to keep her distance as they follow a connection to a recent robbery in Denton. But Josie can’t quiet the voice telling her the handprints Noah left are leading her somewhere, and the trail ends at an upturned box of her long-dead abusive mother’s faded photos, jewelry, a lock of hair, and a few old newspaper clippings. Beside herself with worry for Noah, and unexpectedly confronted by the trauma of her past, Josie throws herself into work. The woman’s body found during a demonstration outside a children’s hospital belongs to Gina Phelan, daughter of the powerful and influential Phelan family. Trawling the CCTV is a welcome distraction, but everything changes the moment fingerprints from the knife that wounded Gina match to prints found in Josie’s own home. Her head spinning as the two cases collide, Josie’s only option is to delve into the life of the monster who terrorized her as a child. The key to everything is hidden in the box of her mother’s mementoes. But is Josie strong enough and fast enough to find it in time? And at what devastating cost to those she loves most?

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REVIEW

The Method of Revenge by Cara Devlin

Spencer & Reid Mystery #2

OMG ~ Brilliant addition to a stellar series ~ The ending took my breath away and left me wanting more ~ WOW ~ Just…W O W!

What I liked: * Leonora “Leo” Spencer: orphaned at nine, lost parents and two siblings, taken in by Uncle Claude and Aunt Flora Feldman, morgue assistant to her uncle, photographic memory, unconventional, reserved, puzzle solver, intriguing, learns something BIG at the end of the book

* Jasper Reid: Detective Inspector, adopted by Chief Superintendent Gregory Reid (deceased) when young, from the streets, an orphan, bright, educated, intelligent, has been spending time with Constance Hayes, reserved, intriguing, conflicted, has secrets that are BIG ~ Oh my!

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing * That the story feels “of the era” and educates while entertaining

* That Leo is in a job that is atypical for women and does a good job when allowed to

* The mystery of the murders, who was behind them, and the way Leo and Jasper unearthed who was behind them

* The death photographs…creepy enough to tweak a memory and have me looking them up online

* Wanting to know more of the backstory of both Leo & Jasper

* The supporting characters that I hope to see again: Nivedita Brooks (Leo’s friend and a Police Matron, Roy Lewis (detective sergeant, married with family, works with Jasper), Uncle Claude who works in the morgue and trained Leo – what will he do with his wife and when he can’t work anymore, Gregory Reid (deceased - big part of the lives of both Jasper & Leo

* Being able to understand the motivation of the criminals while also hating what they did

* Knowing there is another book to look forward to and wondering what will happen next

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about how someone could put monetary gain ahead of the lives of others – and the evil that some did

* Having to wait for book three ;)

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Definitely!

Thank you to the author and Book Funnel for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

Murder never shocks Leonora Spencer. Violence is a fact of life in Victorian London, and most of the corpses Leo attends to inside her uncle’s city morgue are its victims. But when she witnesses a woman’s death at a popular night club, and then follows a suspicious hooded figure retreating from the scene, Leo lands herself in the center of another complex Scotland Yard investigation—right where Detective Inspector Jasper Reid doesn’t want her. In the several weeks since the unconventional Leo Spencer helped him solve an explosive case, Jasper has kept the willful morgue assistant at arm’s length. Now, the bride of one of the city’s most dangerous crime lords has been poisoned, and his primary witness is the very woman he’s been trying to avoid—if only because she is as fascinating as she is irritating. Disregarding strict warnings to stay out of it, Leo insists on helping Jasper sort through his inquiry. When a death portrait of two mysterious children is found in the victim’s handbag, and an unsolved Jane Doe case that haunts Jasper resurfaces, he and Leo begin to question if more than one crime—and killer—is at play. But discovering the truth might also mean walking into a carefully laid trap. Method of Revenge is the second book in Cara Devlin’s new romantic historical mystery series set in Victorian London. The Spencer & Reid Mysteries are perfect for fans of PBS Masterpiece Mystery’s Miss Scarlet & the Duke, and readers of Irina Shapiro, Andrea Penrose, and C.S. Harris.

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REVIEW

Nash by Kelly Finley

Belles & Bratva Beasts #1

Sizzling, steamy, compelling story that I could not put down ~ Can’t wait for the next book!

What I liked: * Nash Allen: father, accountant, in a brotherhood, traditional, possessive, protective, lethal, will do anything to protect those he loves, has loved Vale for twelve years

* Vale Monroe: twin, educated, works at an adult toy store, difficult issues in her past, good friend, loving sister, snarky, talkative, has always had a crush on Nash

* That Nash and Vale were perfect for and with one another

* Alena Allen: Nash’s daughter, Vale’s best friend, bullied, forest ranger, sheltered, engaged to Loch

* Loch: forest ranger, loves Alena, has a secret, would like to know more about him

* The mafia-not mafia undercurrents with a bit of that darkness creeping in

* The compelling reason behind the work that the seven kings are involved in

* The Queen: protective, survivor, suffered much, focused on saving others, has an interesting business that has also appeared in previous books by this author

* The closeness of the Kings and the devotion they have to their Queens

* That I got to know the characters and cared about them and how their futures would turn out

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* Knowing that there is another book to look forward to

* Hoping that all of the Kings will find their Queens before the series finishes

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about how evil human traffickers are and the damage they do to others

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Definitely

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

A sexy-as-sin, standalone ex-mafia romance about a secret society of brothers, Bratva princes, who escaped hell, but now each must find his queen, no matter how forbidden she may be. The Belles & Bratva Beasts Seven kings bound to seven queens; this is our tradition. A second king for each queen, each wife, should the first husband die protecting her; this is our vow. We escaped the Bratva, but this tradition we share won’t die. Until now. I will not share her. NASH You know the saying, “Better the devil you know than the one you don’t?" Oh, Vale knows me. She just doesn’t know I’m the devil. I’m her best friend’s father. I’m the evil man who’s loved her all along. Just ask her violent ex-boyfriend. Oh wait ... you can’t. No. One. Hurts who I love. No. One. Touches my queen. VALE Nash holds me hostage to protect me? How’s that working for him? I’ll snark at him until he wishes for death. He is not my father. No. We share a forbidden secret. One night, when I was eighteen. But now we share a man hunting us. One of his brothers’ many enemies. The only way I can survive? If Nash is my king. The only way Nash is my king? If I accept one of his brothers, too. This book can be read as a standalone, but the timeline of the Belles & Bratva Beasts is as Nash Axel Sire (A Surprise Brother) (Another Surprise) The Queen

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REVIEW

The Two of Us by Lori Foster & Maisey Yates

What could be better than rescue dogs bringing a couple together? Two novellas with the two dogs bringing two couples together 😉

THE ODD COUPLE by Lori Foster

Ford Caruso and Skye Fairchild have been neighbors for almost a year with few encounters but perhaps some watching of one another when Skye arrives to ask for a favor from Ford and though he wasn’t sure he wanted to be a fake date…he couldn’t not help his neighbor out. Little did either know that their lives would change and that two dogs at the pound would become part of their lives as they became a couple. I now wonder if Skye’s sister Kaylee might end up with one of Ford’s friends.

FORCE OF NATURE by Maisey Yates

Lydia Clay is a rescuer of animals…and perhaps of people, too. When she takes a dog from the rescue to Remington Lane’s house hoping he will take in his evil father’s dog the two never realized that Hank just might change their lives. Lydia’s crush of many years finally flourishes as it is time for their HEA…once Remington works a few things out and is ready to step into a glorious future.

These two stories shared the idea of rescue dogs being integral to the romance, had male leads that came from dysfunctional homes, and landed in a soft place with the perfect woman – and dog(s) for them. Fun, warm-hearted, delightful short stories that put a smile on my face.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

BLURB

There’s nothing like the unconditional love of a rescue dog and their ability to bring people together as these meant-to-be-couples are about to find out in these brand-new sweet and romantic tales from bestselling authors Lori Foster and Maisey Yates. The Odd Couple * LORI FOSTER Ford Caruso agrees to an unusual favor—playing the part of new boyfriend for his adamantly single, irresistibly sexy neighbor Skye Fairchild, whose clueless ex refuses to accept his fate. But as Skye starts dropping by to use Ford’s pool, and even plan dates, the charade begins to feel satisfyingly real, complete with choosing rescue dogs together—a giant mutt and a fierce little chihuahua who adore each other. From one odd couple to another, some things are destined . . .   Force of Nature * MAISEY YATES Rescuing animals is in Lydia Clay’s blood, so when a mournful old cattle dog named Hank shows up at the shelter, she knows exactly where to take to cattle rancher Remington Lane, her brother’s hot, and usually grumpy, best friend. Hank belonged to Remy’s estranged father, which is one strike against him, but when Lydia offers to help the man ease into dog ownership, he can’t say no. And as he and Lydia work together, it looks like an old dog can actually teach this brooding cattleman some heart-warming new tricks . . .

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Daughters of Legianne by H.S. Sullivan

Realms of Covens #1

Complex, well-written, immersive debut novel that is first in the Realms of Covens trilogy creates worlds, provides intriguing characters, and see good triumph over evil…at least at the end of this book.

What I Liked: * Róisín: strong, caring, magic wielder, multi-talented, good friend, must face a challenge and has to win to make sure the humans and witches will survive

* Caid: carpenter and fix-it man, loving brother, protective, falls for Róisín, learns his skills may be greater than he realized

* The relationship that develops between Caid and Róisín and thinking about what will come next

* Lina: Caid’s sister, happily married to Thomas, pregnant, Róisín’s friend, open-minded, political

* David: rabbit, shapeshifter, emissary of the Goddess, able to speak, intriguing

* The supporting characters and the parts they played

* That not everybody came through unscathed – though there is one person I hope is not really dead

* Being able to thoroughly dislike the bad guys and wish evil upon them

* The plot, pacing, setting-world building, and writing

* Thinking about what might come next

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant to dislike

* Thinking about how evil some of the characters were and how willing they were to sacrifice others for their own benefit

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? I think so

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

BLURB

A powerful dark magic is rising. A grandmother’s secrets. A mother’s sacrifice, for hope. For half of her 118 years, Róisín McKenna was hidden from others by her mother for safety. The other half, she was a tool in her grandmother's quest for power. Now, the last witch of her realm, Legianne, she has found herself alone in a small town, facing an uncertain future while struggling to come to terms the lies and secrets surrounding her life and family. Can she face her family’s past, learn who she really is, and fulfill her destiny before it’s too late? Kincaid McGrath lives a life of surety, routine. Filled with steadiness and the expected. When Róisín walks into his hometown high school’s gymnasium, everything that was once solid and sure, changes, ready to leave him behind. Will he be able to put behind his own past and accept his own uncertain fate? A story of found family, mystery, suspense, friendship, and love that all spans the realms, Daughters of Legianne is the first book in the Realms of Covens trilogy.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Wildest Dreams by Meridith Claire

Mackenzie Alamazan and Samson Madden have been friends since they met when eight and ten years of age. Their lives have been intertwined as they played, learned, grew, laughed, grieved and loved together. They expected to ride into the sunset side by side decades in the future until things changed…will they get their second chance or not and is a second chance their best option?

What I liked:

* That the story had weight without dragging

* The emotional components of the story were handled well and felt real

* Friendships were strong and supportive with honesty in abundance

* I was able to understand why Sam and Mac were close and still faced the situation that they did

* Mackenzie “Mac”: strong, artistic, Filipina, raised by her uncle, loving, kind, good friend, puts others before herself, intuitive, grows a lot, really like her

* Samson “Sam”: brilliant, well educated, raised by his free-thinking Jewish mother, loving, supportive kind, immersed in work, changes without realizing he is doing so

* Bianca & Ezra: good friends that are there for both Mackenzie and Samson

* Samson’s mother, Bianca’s parents, and Mackenzie’s uncle – wonderful, loving, supportive parental figures and role models

* Hunter: a random meeting with him changed Mackenzie’s life…can’t say more but…I adored him and hope that number eight on his bucket list is possible at some point in time

* Oliver & Parker: married couple, work for Hunter, supportive, like brothers to Hunter, good people

* That I became immersed and invested in the story and could not put it down…think 2am and still reading

* Grew to care for and about the people in the story and hoped their lives would work out for the best and as they were meant to

What I didn’t like: * The atmosphere where Samson works with its white privilege, focus on money, and status – especially Clarissa who works with Samson

* The deep pain from the losses more than one character experienced

* Thinking about what it would be like to get a terminal diagnosis and how I would spend the rest of my life

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

The latest novel from Meridith Claire. On sale NOW! Thoughtless words. A devastating breakup. A journey to self they could never have foreseen… Mackenzie Mackenzie Almazan lives a charmed life. Even with the devastating death of the uncle who raised her, the American-born Filipina grew up with security and love. This should be the happiest time in Mackenzie’s life as she is planning her wedding to Sam, her childhood best friend turned fiancé, yet, a single look from him makes her question everything and suddenly the life she dreamed of explodes and crumbles around her. Just when things start to feel hopeless, she looks up to find someone asking if the seat next to her is taken. Sam Things have always come easy for Samson Madden—school, making friends, and even love. Having met Mackenzie at age ten, knowing almost instantly the Filipina girl would own his heart, Sam worked hard, determined to make the life he dreamed for them a reality. However, as he moves up the corporate ladder, it changes what he wants and dreams of. Sam makes a devastating mistake that starts a chain reaction ultimately leading to the realization of who and what he is becoming. Sam is confronted with a major decision—does he want a future with Mackenzie or stay on the path he is on and leave the love of his life behind? The two embark on separate journeys to uncover who they truly are. Is this the end or another beginning? Dive into this captivating story of self-discovery and romance that leaves you believing in the magic of your Wildest Dreams.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Splinter Effect by Andrew Ludington

Splinter Effect #1

Time travel is a fascinating thing to contemplate. I think my first time related book was The Girl, The Gold Watch & Everything by John D. Macdonald loaned to me by my father and it made me think about being able to stop time and move through it to rob or play tricks or basically become invisible. Every time travel book I’ve read has the theory that changing anything in the past will change the future and rewrite history, as does this book. I wonder sometimes how hard it would be to show up in the past without the proper clothing, language skills, and deal with all that would need to be dealt with.

Dr. Robert “Rabbit” Ward is an archaeologist with mixed results in finding the artifacts he is sent for that are only to be found in the past. He also has a competitor-thief named Helen to deal with. Rabbit reminds me of another book my father loaned to me, The Adventures of Hiram Holiday by Paul Gallico. Hiram was an unremarkable man in appearance but surprisingly skilled and able to function admirably in dangerous situations then win the fair maiden in the end. Rabbit, too, is average in appearance, has skills to assist him, and seems to get along with women as well as others.

This book is not what I was expecting. It didn’t grip me and draw me in but as I was skimming it I could see that the plot and writing were solid, the history plentiful, action scenes were provided, and ultimately had me thinking “what-if.

 I have a feeling that many readers will enjoy this series and will eagerly await each book. I hope that future books will give more of Rabbit’s backstory, information about time travel and  what it is used for in Rabbit’s world, mention whether or not one can also travel into the future, and further flesh out the time travel aspects of the books.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Publishing - Minotaur for the ARC – this is my honest review.

4 Stars

BLURB

In this action-packed debut, time traveling archaeologist Rabbit Ward maneuvers through the past to recover a long-lost, precious menorah hiding out in ancient Rome.Smithsonian archaeologist Rabbit Ward travels through time on sponsored expeditions to the past to secure precious artifacts moments before they are lost to history. Although exceptional at his job, Rabbit is not without faults. In a spectacular failure twenty years ago, he lost both the menorah of the second temple and his hot-headed mentee, Aaron. So, when new evidence reveals the menorah’s reappearance in 6th century Constantinople, Rabbit seizes the chance for redemption.But from the moment he arrives in the past, things start to go wrong. Rabbit quickly finds out that his prime competition, an unlicensed and annoyingly appealing “stringer” named Helen, is also in Constantinople hunting the menorah. And that’s only the beginning. The oppressed Jewish population of the city is primed for revolution, Constantinople’s leading gang seems to have it out for Rabbit personally, and someone local is interested enough in the menorah to kill for it.As the past closes in on him and his previous failures compound, will Rabbit be able to recover the menorah before it's once again lost in time? With new and old dangers alike hiding behind every corner, time might just be up for Rabbit’s redemption—and possibly his life.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

King of Clubs by Vyk Peters

King Series #2

Grabbed me and wouldn’t let me go ~ Couldn’t put it down

What I liked: * Marlee Harting: psychologist, lost her parents, fell for the wrong man, managed to escape, survivor, strong, capable, good friend, meets and falls for Sebastian

* Sebastian Micallef: owner of club Nexus, father walked out when young, loves his mother and sister, responsible, protective, goal-oriented, good friend, rather taken with Marlee

* That both main characters are mature, communicate openly and honestly, and grow as they open up to one another ~ They are perfect for and with each other in and out of the bedroom

* Arna: Marlee’s best friend and there for her when she left Lucas, in a loving relationship with Andy and their story was book one “King of Hearts”

* That this book stands alone without having read book one

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* That I became immersed in the story and cared about the outcome

* The women friends, their friendship, and how they are there for one another

* Eva: Sebastian’s younger sister, numbers smart, would like to find out if she will end up with Cooper

* Cooper: Sebastian’s best friend, wealthy, parents distant, whiskey maker, intriguing

* Reading a new-to-me author that I feel has a brilliant future

* Too many things to itemize

What I didn’t like:

* Who and what I was meant not to like

* Marlee’s abusive ex, her stalker, and the creepy doorman

* Thinking about abuse…how the abuser justifies and enjoys what they do and the pain of the person on the receiving end

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op ~ This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

When an impetuous decision is the catalyst for new beginnings, proving there is strength in loving and being loved. Following the unexpected loss of her parents and escaping the horrors of a toxic relationship, Marlee Harting finds herself a shell of the bright, outgoing person she once was. With a coffee in hand, she knows the only direction from rock bottom is onwards and upwards and that starts with rediscovering herself again. Love is the last thing on her mind, until she meets the owner of the hottest club in Sydney. A ridiculously regimented man – with his devilish smile and mouth watering forearms – determined to challenge everything she thought she knew and ignite desires she never thought possible. ♣Sebastian Micallef has carved a life for himself on his own terms, breaking free from the constraints assumed by his upbringing. Content in the shadows as the owner of a popular city nightclub, he is living his dreams with a control he holds firmly to his chest. Finding someone to share his life with has never been on the agenda, nor has he ever been swayed by the distractions of a woman - until he encounters Marlee. Waltzing in she brings a splash of colour to his carefully organised world, enticing him to no longer walk alone, and forcing him to question his otherwise grey existence. She painted his meticulous world with her vibrant chaos, however, can The King of Clubsforego control when she needs him the most.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

The Gargoyles of Notre Dame by Greg Walters

Action-packed fantasy with magical elements and gargoyles that is set in Paris just before the French Revolution. I had the feeling it would make a good book for perhaps youth or young adults. The plot, pacing, setting and writing were excellent.

The two main characters are 15-year-old Catia, daughter of a noble, and 22-year-old Henri, a stonemason apprentice. The book is told from their viewpoints and flips between the two unless they are together. Nyron, the gargoyle that bonds and binds with Henri, also plays a big part in the story as he communicates with Henri in rhyme. The bond between Nyron and Henri is strong and they support one another and at times save one another’s lives.

The times are tense and much like what I imagine the time prior to the French Revolution might have been.  Both main characters suffered losses, but they also grew and learned as the story progressed. I wonder if there will be a sequel.

I can see this book being made into a movie and now wonder who might be cast in the roles of Henri and Catia.

Thank you to NetGalley and Book Whisperer for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

BLURB

History meets Fantasy in Revolutionary France! Paris, 1789. The soaring spires of Notre Dame conceal more than prayer and piety. Within the cathedral lies the secret of the gargoyles, mystical creatures bound by ancient magic to the aristocracy. For centuries, these stone sentinels have ensured the power of the nobility and kept the oppressed powerless. When Henri, a 22-year-old stonemason apprentice, accidentally forges a sacred bond with one of these creatures, he shatters a tradition meant to protect only the upper class. Betrayed by the gargoyles and hunted as a traitor, Henri flees into a city teetering on the edge of revolution. As word of his forbidden connection spreads, hope ignites among the oppressed. To the people, Henri becomes more than a fugitive. He is a symbol, proof that the chains of oppression can be broken. With cries of “Liberty! Equality! Fraternity!” rising in the streets, Henri faces an impossible choice. Will he hide from the chaos or risk everything to lead a rebellion that could reshape France forever? Perfect for fans of The Gilded Wolves and The Night Circus, The Gargoyles of Notre Dame is an exhilarating tale of magic, rebellion, and the courage to defy destiny.