cathygeha

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Betrothed to the Alien Mercenary by Robin O’Connor

Monster Mercenary Mates #3

Body doubles are used from time to time in movies ~ who knew an alien princess needed one and that the body double would be the heroine instead of the princess?

What I liked: * Evie: human, body double of princess Eradne, in service since childhood, strong, resilient, survivor, made a promise she feels compelled to keep, felt the mate bond as soon as she met Aramon

* Aramon: alien, Asrai, twin with twin-bond, pilot, hyperactive, emotion driven, mental link and more with his twin, strong, protective, fierce, lethal, knew Evie was his mate upon first sight

* The strong bond between the main characters and how their relationship grows

* Solear: Aramon’s twin, nearly silent, communicates telepathically with his brother, traumatic experience when young, would like to see him in a book of his own

* Getting to meet catch up with the crew of the Varakartoom and find out how they and the two human mates on board are doing

* Knowing that there are plenty of crew still available to find their mates so there will be more books to look forward to.

* The plot, pacing, setting, writing, prologue that set the story up, the epilogue that sets up the next story

* Finding out who is behind the assassination attempts and how that issue is resolved

* The glossary and cast of characters

* All of it really except…

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

* Having to wait for the next book in the series

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Definitely

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

5 Stars

BLURB

Trust no one. Hide who I am. Complete the mission. Easy... until I meet him. Evie When a dying Xurtal princess makes me promise to save her planet, I have no choice but to take her place. Me, a human girl, pretending to be an alien royal. To survive the assassination attempts, I need a bodyguard. Enter cocky, infuriating, and scorchingly hot. He has to pretend to be my mate to protect me. A fake fiancé for a fake princess. What could possibly go wrong? But the way he looks at me feels anything but fake. And if he discovers my secrets, I’ll lose more than my mission—I might lose him too. Aramon Playing bodyguard to a spoiled princess? Not my dream job. But the second I meet Evadne, everything changes. She’s my perfect match, even if this is all supposed to be an act. I’ve sworn to protect her, and it’s more than duty now. It’s instinct. The deeper we go into this dangerous game, the harder it is to let her go. She may not trust me, but I’ll prove one this princess is mine, no matter what galaxy-shattering secrets she’s hiding. This is book three in the Monster Mercenary Mates series. This sci-fi monster romance features one irreverent, cocky alien pilot, a fake princess with a huge secret, an even faker betrothal, and a steamy HEA.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

From Air by Jewel E. Ann

Wildfire #1

Immersive, emotional, heart-warming, wonderful story that drew me in, made me care, and left me with a smile on my face

What I liked: * Reading a new-to-me-author that I would gladly read again

* Jamie: RN, homeschooled, quiet upbringing, lost her parents, good friend, traveling psychiatric nurse, wants to experience new places before settling down, mature, wise, caring, a person I would like to have as a friend

* Calvin: smoke jumper, difficult backstory, emotionally reserved, voracious reader, somewhat blocked off from others, likable, “broken”, loves deeply, caring, good friend, intriguing

* Supporting characters that were important and that I would like to see again: Maren, Will, and Melissa for sure…perhaps a few others

* Edith: Calvin’s grandmother who played a big part in Calvin’s life

* The development of the relationship between Jamie and Calvin ~ fun, flirty, quirky, sometimes difficult, and ultimately perfect

* The psychological and emotional issues dealt with, honest open communication of the main characters, the support of community and friends

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing ~ Excellently crafted book!

* The growth of both main characters as they processed new information and dealt with past and present issues

* Being reminded of taking student nurses to Patton State Hospital in San Bernardino and wondering if perhaps Dwight was in that prison/facility

* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like:

* Who and what I was meant not to like

* The emotional pain some of the characters experienced and the causes of that pain

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Definitely

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

5 Stars

BLURB

Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author Jewel E. Ann parachutes into the burning, hazardous heart of love in a sexy yet dramatic romance set in Big Sky country. When Jamie Andrews moves in with a house full of firefighters, things start heating up fast. Battling the wilderness of rural Montana, these guys are always charging into danger—for a living, for duty, for the rush—and since Jamie is a psychiatric nurse, they fascinate her analytic mind. She can’t help but fixate on Calvin, a grumpy, enigmatic smoke jumper ten years her senior. She makes playfully tormenting him her pet project, trying to get him to open up. It turns out he gives as good as he gets. When something smoldering between them sparks, they’ll have to keep it quiet, which makes Jamie start to wonder about Calvin’s secret, the one he won’t explain. She’ll learn more after life pulls them apart. But as she follows the truth like a trail of flame into the dark, will it lead her to hearth and home with Calvin…or will it all go up in a blaze?

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REVIEW

Summit’s Edge by Sara Driscoll

FBI K-9  #9

Intensely challenging rescue and manhunt as the K-9s and their handlers search for a murderous hijacker in difficult mountainous terrain ~ Excellent addition to the series!

What I liked:

* Being back with this wonderful cast of characters and finding out what they are doing

* Meg Jennings: civilian FBI handler with the forensic canine unit, strong, fit, dedicated, professional, team player, engaged, loves her family, resilient, good friend, protective, bonded with Hawk

* Hawk: black labrador, Meg’s canine partner and “heart dog, strong, determined, excellent skills, capable, loving, supportive, part of the family when not working

* Todd Webb: Meg’s fiancé, fireman and EMT, strong, professional, skillful, loves Meg and understands her, provided information about high-altitude illness before Meg, Brian, and the dog tackled the search in Colorado

* Brian Foster: Meg’s work partner, handler and partner of K-9 Lucy, married, good friend, has Meg’s back,

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* The epigraphs with information about climbing at the beginning of each chapter

* The teamwork and how fluidly the FBI in Colorado, the rescue personnel, and dog handlers worked together

* Feeling part of the story and learning more about climbing, elevation issues, emergency care and remembering climbing Mount Whitney and one of the youth in the group having altitude illness issues

* The last chapter and the happy wedding day with all the friends and family there

* Wondering what the next book will be about

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

* Thinking about why anyone would be able to rationalize what the hijacker did

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Yes

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

5 Stars

BLURB

FBI handler Meg Jennings and her K-9 partner, Hawk, vie to rescue plane crash survivors from a Colorado mountain—and contend with a hijacker determined to stop them. As long as there’s hope of finding life, no mission is too dangerous for Meg Jennings and her colleagues in the FBI K-9 unit. But locating the wreckage of a hijacked private plane high in the Elk Mountains of Colorado is treacherous in a multitude of ways—some of them impossible for even a seasoned team to predict. The plane, carrying the board of directors of Barron Pharmaceuticals, crashed on a rocky peak and was cleaved in two. Perilous weather means the rescuers have to ascend on foot, with their dogs unleashed in case of falls. It takes hours to locate the wreckage, but miraculously, Meg and Hawk find half a dozen passengers and crew still alive. The hijacker also survived, and has fled into the wilderness with the CEO’s son in pursuit. As soon as day breaks, the K-9 teams set out to find both men, and the dogs quickly pick up a scent trail. Meg has used her connections with an investigative reporter to learn as much as she can about the hijacker, hoping to use it when they apprehend him. But first, they must contend with the mountain’s savage fury, and an adversary who will destroy as many lives as possible rather than face justice . .

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

The Drowning Game by Barbara Nickless

Taking a chance on a new book is much easier when every book previously read by the author has been excellent. I met this author on her second book, was hooked, and have been on the line ever since. This is either a standalone novel or perhaps (fingers crossed) the beginning of a new series.

What I liked:

* The Legend of the Merlion and how it tied into the story

* The perfect title for the book and the story behind it

* The epigraphs that introduced each section

* That Cassandra Brenner’s introduction in August grabbed me and made me want to keep reading

* Nadia Brenner: yacht designer, wealthy, close to her sister Cassandra, daughter of generational megayacht family empire, loves her family, believes in the work she does, in a relationship with Matthew, learns and grows a lot, has inner strengths she finds in this story

* Cassandra: strong, enjoys excitement, loves Shanghai, puts family first, protective, caring, not seen much but pivotal piece in this book

* The yin/yang of the sisters personalities

* Learning more about yachts and yacht building

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* The subplots that bring in more than one family name and the issues and the family histories that impact the present in a variety of ways

* The new tidbits learned about Asia, Asian philosophies, games I’d never heard of

* The tension and reason for it

* The twists, turns, secrets exposed, and how it all came together in the end

* The ending…but also wondering if perhaps it is just the beginning of a new series…would love to get to know the main characters better?

What I didn’t like:

* Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about Karma and wondering about how it might have played a part in some of the characters’ lives

* The loss of some of the lives of some of the characters

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

BLURB

A woman’s investigation into her sister’s death exposes the dark side of a secret life in a gripping novel of power, money, and murder by a Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Sisters Nadia and Cass Brenner are heirs to Ocean House, a decades-old empire that builds superyachts for the rich and emirs, oligarchs, and titans of industry throughout America and Europe. They’re a next-generation success with the design of their soon-to-be-commissioned megayacht for a Chinese billionaire. But the sisters’ entrée into the coveted Asian market is tragically cut short when Cass falls from a fortieth-floor hotel window. A Singapore detective rules suicide. Nadia’s been in the yacht business too long not to be suspicious. Especially when she discovers Cass’s involvement in dangerously illicit activities. Pulled into the same web of betrayal, lies, and secrets that trapped her sister, Nadia is on the most perilous mission of her life. Because uncovering the truth behind her sister’s death could tear the Brenner family apart—and it just might get her killed. From Seattle to Austria to the South China Sea, Nadia must hold on to the one thing that can keep her safe. It’s the Brenner family Trust no one.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Barbara Nickless is the Wall Street Journal and Amazon Charts bestselling author of Play of Shadows, Dark of Night, and At First Light in the Dr. Evan Wilding series, as well as the Sydney Rose Parnell series, which includes Blood on the Tracks, a Suspense Magazine Best of 2016 selection and winner of the Colorado Book Award and the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence; Dead Stop, winner of the Colorado Book Award and nominee for the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence; Ambush; and Gone to Darkness. Her essays and short stories have appeared in Writer’s Digest and on Criminal Element, among other markets. She lives in Colorado, where she loves to cave, snowshoe, hike, and drink single malt Scotch—usually not at the same time. Connect with her at www.barbaranickless.com.

The Drowning Game by Barbara Nickless Thomas & Mercer | January 1, 2025 | 380 pages | Trade Paperback Original | ISBN 9781662510014 $4.99 Kindle e-Book | ASIN B0D183RYWK $19.99 Digital Audio | ISBN 1511344261

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

The Forgotten One by Catherine Bybee

The Heirs #2

This book had me up till 2am last night wanting to finish the book but knowing I would probably enjoy and remember it better if I slept a few hours instead of staying up all night. Loved it and found it a wonderful addition to the series. Can’t wait for book three!

What I liked: * Maximillian “Max” Smith: abandoned by his mother, difficult childhood growing up in foster care and group homes, manual laborer, trust issues, big heart, caring, protective, intriguing, drawn to Sarah, really liked him

* Sarah McNeilly: journalist, researcher, honest, won’t print lies, works for a tabloid, dreams of working for big newspaper, good friend, caring, good people skills, loving family, open, drawn to Max, good with and for him

* Remembering book one with Chase, Alex, and Piper looking for their lost brother and seeing what they are doing in this book

* The way Max reacted when he was approached the first time by his half siblings

* The way Max began to open up over time and how his relationships with those in the book changed through the story

* Supporting characters and what they added to the story: Sarah’s roommate Teri, Alex’s bff Nick, Abigale who knew Max when he was tiny, Max’s workmate Jeff – wonder if he will show up later, and a few others

* The way both Max and Sarah were willing to go for what they wanted, openly and maturely communicate with one another and others, and the points in time where they said enough was enough and moved toward a brighter future in their work

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* That I felt a part of the story, would be glad to be friends with more than one and was invested in the characters and outcome

* Eager to find out who Alex will end up with in the next book, how Glenn will participate going forward, and hoping that Melissa, Floyd, and others will be hit by Karma

* All of it except…

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

* Thinking about the “lost children” and how difficult so many of their lives are

* Having to wait for the next book…want to find out what happens next!

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Definitely

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

5 Stars

BLURB

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Catherine Bybee spins a dazzling tale of long-lost relatives, overnight riches, and unexpected romance in the dramatic second book of The Heirs series. Sarah McNeilly is a rare find in the tabloid industry. She won’t ignite gossip. She finds the truth. And for once, that’s what her boss wants. With her job on the line, Sarah’s latest assignment is to identify the elusive “Maximillian Smith,” unearth his connection to the billionaire Stone family, and dig up some dirt. Yesterday Max was an ordinary workingman, concerned with little more than the price of gas. Now he suddenly has a family, jaw-dropping wealth, and an avid (if clumsy) reporter on his trail. With the press threatening to destroy his new life, he needs to release his real story strategically, and Sarah is the key—not to mention an adorable yet invaluable resource for finding his mother. As Max and Sarah team up to peel back the ugly layers of Max’s past, they stumble heart-first into their fiery attraction. But when their research threatens their newly built trust, it’s their future that is on the line.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Twisted Shadows by Allie Therin

Sugar & Vice #2

Twisted twisty tale that returned me to empath Reece and Dead Man Evan and their slow burn romance while they are dealing with what is REALLY going on I a world where empaths are the boogeyman with corporations making big bucks to protect non-empaths from…empaths

What I liked:

* Reece Davies: empath, loving brother, anxiety ridden, fears being corrupted and harming others, hears lies, makes me smile, likable and likes Evan

* Evan Grayson: has lost all emotions, gorgeous, lethal, strong, dark backstory, weapon used against empaths, protective, attracted to Reece, seems conflicted

* Jamey: ex-detective, Reece’s sister, enhanced strength and abilities from growing up with Reece, in a relationship with Reece, may join the Vanguard and work with Evan

* Aisha Easterby: doctor, medical examiner, works with Evan, intriguing and hope to see more of her

* Diesel: ex-marine, gentle giant, cares about empaths, works as a bouncer at an empath themed bar

* The communication between Reece and Evan ~ snarky, sweet, hot, fun, and so much fun to read

* The smiles that were created from time to time

* The way touch and not being able to touch in a relationship was used in the story

* Being able to hate the bad guys…and there were more than just a few…hope karma seeks then out

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* That I became invested in the characters and want to know how their lives turn out – am hopeful that there will be a way to reverse/fix some things to make life easier for more than one of them

* Knowing that there is another book coming and hoping it is soon

What I didn’t like:

* Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about how wicked to the core some of the characters were

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series/ by this author? Definitely!

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

5 Stars

BLURB

In a thrilling alternate-universe Seattle, empaths are disappearing—and it’s up to grumpy Reece and his mysterious protector, Grayson, to investigate. Empath hunter Evan Grayson is the Dead Man, transformed by a dark past into a perfect weapon against corrupted empaths. Nothing can distract him from stopping these superhuman killers—until he’s mired in a new battle, fighting a forbidden attraction to an empath on the verge of corruption. For pacifist Reece Davies, every day is a struggle to keep his darker side in check. It’s only his complicated relationship with Evan that keeps him grounded—a relationship that, despite his growing feelings, must stay at arm’s length. But when an empath’s murder on the East Coast points to a treacherous plot back west, with Reece as the next potential target, Evan races across the country to be by his side. Together, they search for missing empaths, their proximity heightening the chemistry they must resist. But corruption isn’t the only danger they face as sinister forces close in from the shadows, sights set on empath and empath hunter alike…

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Beyond Earth

A collection of stories of which I was offered one to read by the author Robin O’Connor. I love her alien-human romances and this novella tells of another gladiator who manages to elude death and is working toward his dream of owning his own pub when he senses that there is a “stray” in need of help behind the kitchen. Enticing her out of hiding and into his four arms will test his patience but it is definitely worth it to claim his mate. They have a few obstacles to overcome but their happy ending was wonderful as was seeing Jenny and Akri from Logic Broken show up in this story.

Did I enjoy this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Yes

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

4-5 Stars

BLURB for ENTICED BY THE ALIEN CHEF

Twice abducted. That’s me—always unlucky until I met him.

Kara

I never thought I'd end up homeless inside a terrifying alien spaceport. Everyone seems out to get me, with danger lurking around every corner—until I meet him.

Rex is huge, four-armed, and always silent, thanks to a knot of scars on his throat. He doesn’t need words to draw me out from my hiding spot; his gestures say it all. With him, I’m safe. His touch sets my blood on fire, and his protectiveness may be the only thing standing between me and more enemies than I care to count.

Rex

I never thought I’d find my mate hiding in the alley behind my kitchen. But when I meet her, my world tilts on its axis. This is the reward a former prime gladiator like me has always dreamed of.

I will entice her from the dark, into my arms, and once she’s there, I’ll never let her go. When my boss, her kidnappers, and one deranged alien all come after her, I will fight to the death to protect her. For Kara, I would do anything.

BLURB BEYOND EARTH

Discover passion among the stars… Blast off to the future with this limited edition collection of sizzling, science fiction romance stories! Otherworldly seduction and intergalactic adventures await you in these high-heat, open-door tales from a diverse group of authors. Meet alien gladiators, cyborgs, AI lifeforms, psychic aliens, interstellar royalty, psy-changelings, fearless humans, and more. Visit alien worlds, travel on high-tech vessels, and immerse yourself in red-hot seduction blazing brighter than any quasar. The Beyond Earth anthology is a pulse-pounding, toe-curling journey into the cosmos. If you enjoy out-of-this-world romance with guaranteed happily ever afters, lovers from different worlds, fated mates, enemies to lovers, grumpy-sunshine, rescue romance, and more, then you’ll love this treasure trove of spicy, steamy, futuristic stories. Order your copy of Beyond Earth to begin your passion-filled voyage into the galaxy today! Including stories Candice Gilmer - NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Stephanie Morris - USA Today bestselling author Leslie Chase - USA Today bestselling author Alina Riley Robin O’Connor Celia Breslin Sky Robert Lola Blix

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

A Whisper at Midnight by Darcy Burke

Raven & Wren #2

Delightful return to a series that is one I am avidly interested in following ~ Tilda & Hadrian are perfect for and with one another even if they don’t know it yet.

What I Liked:

* Miss Matilda “Tilda” Wren: twenty-five years old, lives with her grandmother, father was a detective and taught her his skills, caring, responsible, not close to her mother, frugal,  inquisitive, bright, capable, marriage-averse, rather intrigued with Hadrian, * Hadrian Becket, Earl of Ravenhurst: thirty-years-old, politically active, wealthy, nearly killed in book one of the series, paranormal psychometry ability post near-death experience, hires Tilda to find the murderer of his ex-fiance’s husband and clear his name, drawn to and intrigued by Tilda * The slow growth of the potential relationship between Raven & Wren * Some of the supporting characters that I wouldn’t mind seeing again…and the addition of a few more in this book * That the writing felt “of the period” as did the characters dialogue and behavior * The descriptions that engaged all of my senses * The plot and sub-plots, pacing, setting, and writing * That I was invested in the characters, story, and outcome of the murder mystery * Wondering if Tilda will ever overcome her negative feelings regarding marriage

* That I didn’t know who the actual killer was till it was revealed * Hoping that there is another book in the series to look forward to

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like * Thinking about what makes some people killers * Thinking about the divide between the classes and genders during this time period Did I like this book? Yes Would I read more in this series? Definitely Thank you to the author and Oliver Heber Books for the ARC – This is my honest review. 5 Stars

BLURB

Private investigator Matilda Wren’s new client is a woman seeking evidence to divorce her husband. She is also the former fiancée of her last client—and dear friend—Lord Ravenhurst. Though he has enthusiastically offered to aid Tilda with future investigations, she can’t very well accept his help in this matter. Especially when her client’s husband is murdered, and Ravenhurst is a suspect. Hadrian Becket, Earl of Ravenhurst has never felt more alive than when he was solving a mystery with Miss Wren, even when suffering headaches from using his newly acquired ability to touch an object and see a person’s memories. He wants nothing more than to continue their professional association as well as deepen their friendship. Except now he must prove he isn’t guilty of murder, even if that includes working against his former partner. Tilda can’t believe Hadrian is capable of harming anyone, but how well does she know him? She must rely on her intellect and investigative skill—and not allow her affinity for him to cloud her judgment. When the killer strikes again, Tilda sees that the danger is not to their friendship after all, but to their very existence.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

No One Left by Lisa Boyle

Pinter PI #2

The Southwest is an area I have visited in the past in other books by authors writing about Indian/Native American issues and this book hit hard in more ways than one.  

What I liked:

* Molly Pinter: James’s daughter, bright, intrepid, dealing with a new-to-her father,apable, loving, artistic, good friend, absorbs new information, curious, enjoys living on the reservation

*James Pinter: single father, ex-military, private investigator, bonding with his daughter through their working together, in a new relationship with Kay, assists police on and off the reservation

* The intricately plotted story

* References to the taking of indigenous children from their families and the impact it had for so many years…and wondering, after reading this book, if it continues today

* The chapter titles by name of character in the story

* Being immersed in the story and caring about the outcome

* The supporting characters: Sanchez, Barbara, Wayne, Kay, Tony, Isaac, Peter, Lark

* Police procedural aspects that eventually led to finding out who killed Judge Winters and his wife

* The glimpse into the culture of the Navajo Nation/Diné tribe and how they view family

* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like:

* Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about the pain and suffering caused by corrupt people that put self and money before humanity…also the pain from “do-gooders” that end up harming more than helping

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Yes

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

5 Stars

BLURB

Private investigator James Pinter expects mostly bail jumper and larceny cases after opening his new P.I. business and accepting a position as expert consultant to the Navajo Tribal Police. But no sooner has James settled into the job when George Morris—a familiar face from James’s last case—goes missing. A day later, James finds out why. George is suspected of murdering an Albuquerque judge and his wife.   James’s connections to the reservation make him a sought-after asset and he is quickly called up to work on the double homicide case. But he immediately hits a snag. Something is wrong with the crime scene, and what’s more, an informant is convinced that the police are going after the wrong man.   Then another call comes in from George Morris himself begging James to prove his innocence. But James isn’t convinced George is as blameless as he claims. As James untangles the knots leading George to the judge, he’s drawn into a web of political deceit involving some of the most secretive and powerful people in New Mexico. With his new P.I. business on the line, James realizes that someone is trying to set him up to take the fall on a case that was botched from the beginning. The only thing left to do? Find the real killer. And fast.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Out in the Cold by Steve Urszenyi

Special Agent Alexandra Martel #2

Great addition to the series ~ Hope this series continues for many more books!

What I liked: * Alexandra “Alex” Martel: widow, ex-military medic & sniper, special ops experience, new member of CIA team, strong, resilient, lethal, strategic thinker, loyal, protective, follows her gut, intriguing, someone I would want on my side, might be attracted to Caleb * Caleb Copeland: CIA branch chief developing a unique team of operators that Alex has joined, experienced, dedicated, patriotic, warrior, knowledgeable, lethal, intriguing, attracted to Alex but for some reason holding back

* Iain Street: ex-SAS, in charge of security and protection for Valterri, charming, lethal, would like to see him again * Captain Tatiana Burina: Russian, GRU agent, liked her part in this book and wonder if she will show up in the future * The plot, pacing, settings, writing, and conclusion * The twists and turns

* Being able to thoroughly dislike the bad guys and hope they would be vanquished * Wondering what the next book will be about…hope there will be a next book! * All of it except… What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like * Thinking about the bad guys and their willingness to sacrifice innocent lives for their goal and then how warped their thinking would have to be to do what they did Did I enjoy this book? Yes Would I read more by this author? Yes Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the ARC – This is my honest review. 5 Stars

BLURB

Special Agent Alex Martel is thrown back into a deadly world of deception when a series of attacks threaten to incite World War III in this action-packed thriller. While sailing across the Mediterranean, the megayacht Aurora is rocked with explosions, taken under siege by unknown assailants. On board are some of Europe’s wealthiest and most powerful political players, including the secretary general of Interpol, a high-ranking Finnish diplomat, and Special Agent Alex Martel―whose lethal sniper skills kick in to bring them safely to shore. Someone is waging a ruthless campaign of attacks against Finland, one of NATO’s newest members, in an attempt to throw the Alliance into turmoil. Teaming back up with CIA agent Caleb, Alex is thrust into the middle of the fray, pursuing the villains from the waters off of Monaco to the Baltic Sea and home to American soil. As the US is pulled deeper into the conflict, a global catastrophe seems inevitable. But who is really responsible for these escalating attacks on Finland? The Russians, or someone much closer to home? As new allies surface and old enemies reappear, Alex has no way of knowing who to trust―and she might only have one last shot to keep the world from going to war.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

One Night Before Christmas by Serenity Woods

What a wonderful Christmas novella this is ~ loved every sizzling thought provoking moment of it ~ this author ALWAYS writes books I want to reread!

What I liked: * Astrid: widow, single mom, underpaid and overworked, positive, helpful, loving, kind, caring, good mother, loving daughter, beautiful in body and soul, perfect for and with Te Ariki

* Te Ariki: wealthy, business owner, philanthropist, bright, good friend, scarred in body and soul, survivor, grieving, conflicted, perfect for and with Astrid

* Immi: Astrid’s daughter, six years old, bright, fun, has physical challenges

* Hannah? Astrid’s mother, supportive, caring, wise, gives good advice

* Te Ariki’s partners in the Midnight Club: Lincoln Green who has his own book (Obsession Under the Southern Stars), and Orson Cavendish and Kingi Davis that I hope will show up in books of their own – all supportive, caring, wealthy, and no doubt wonderful people

* The meet-cute and romance that followed

* That Astric was able to see under Te Ariki’s gruff and scarred exterior to who he really was

* The communication – open, honest, and adult between the main characters and with their friends

* The sizzle and heat in and out of the bedroom

* All of it…loved it!

What I didn’t like:

* What both main characters had suffered in the past

* Thinking about how difficult it would be to be a single parent

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Yes

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

5 Stars

BLURB

One night with a scarred stranger for a million pounds. What would you do? This Christmas, I’m a modern-day Bob Cratchit, struggling to keep food on the table and a roof over the head of my disabled daughter, Immi. With bills piling up, holiday gifts and a festive dinner are an impossible dream. Then a last-minute kitchen job at Midnight in Mayfair, an exclusive London nightclub, changes everything. When I help an injured dancer, I catch the eye of the club's owner, Te Ariki tall, Māori, rich, scarred, and extremely intimidating. He suggests I fill in for her. I’m ready to refuse—until I realize how much it pays. After watching my performance, Te Ariki offers me another five thousand pounds for a private dance. Desperation wins, and I can’t resist. Then he asks me to return the next evening. Night after night, I find myself dancing just for him, gradually glimpsing the man beneath the scars. Then he makes an unthinkable one million pounds for a single night together, with two conditions—he’ll blindfold me, and I must agree to be restrained. I’m terrified, but the money could change everything for Immi and me. I don’t expect to fall for him. But after that night, Te Ariki expects me to walk away. What happens when Beauty can’t leave her Beast?

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Tall, Dark and December by Tracy Sumner

The Rake Review #12

Big smiles ~ I loved this story ~ I knew that I would ~ Every book I’ve read by this author has allowed me to immerse myself in delightfully and vicariously enjoy the romance that always leads to a satisfying ending.

What I liked: * Weston Whittaker: American, engineer, mathematician, eidetic memory, difficult backstory, Tristan’s half-brother, needs financial investors, rather taken with his etiquette teacher

* Lady Penelope Anstruther-Colbrook “Penny”: older sister, etiquette instructor, responsible, beautiful, wears glasses, living down a scandal, a bit of a free spirit, rather taken with Weston

* That I could see Penny and West happy together both in the bedroom and in all other areas of their lives

* The open honest mature communication between Penny and West

* Isabella: Penny’s younger sister, does beautiful embroidery, hurt by her understanding of Penny’s scandal, has a secret, hope she gets a book of her own

* The growing friendship and brotherly relationship between Weston and Tristan

* That I honestly liked both main characters and would love to have them as friends

* Tristan Tierney, Duke of Mercer: loved remembering his meeting and marriage of Camille in Chasing the Duke – plan to reread it immediately

* Brixworth: Tristan’s majordomo and an intriguing person

* Deke: employed by Weston – would like to know more about him

* Weston’s names for his cat and dog – based on political figures

* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like: * Thinking about how difficult Weston’s life was after his mother died

* Thinking about the difficulties Penelope and Isabella had to deal with after they lost their parents

* Not knowing who has been writing the Rake Review and wondering if there will be a book in the future that will reveal her story

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Definitely!

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

5 Stars

BLURB

USA Today bestselling author, Tracy Sumner, crafts her signature sizzling style into an emotional, witty, standalone romance. An American scoundrel falls for his etiquette teacher in this steamy Regency romp! - Reverse age gap - Hero falls first - My Fair Lady retelling - Brothers & bromance! The 12th book in the popular Rake Review series! Bachelors beware—a new gossip sheet is taking London by storm! Every month, the columnist known as the Brazen Belle selects one of London’s most notorious scoundrels to both pan and praise in her Rake Review column. With a fresh target on these rakehells’ backs, the ladies of London are taking aim. Will it be gaming hells or wedding bells for these notorious scoundrels? Follow their exploits in the steamy new Rake Review series! Tall, Dark and December is the final book in the multi-author series The Rake Review. If you enjoy watching some of London’s most notorious scoundrels getting raked over the coals, then be sure to collect all twelve bachelors!

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Cozy Up to Mystery by Colin Conway

Cozy Up Series #8

Beauregard Smith is on his eight name in the WitSec program and even though his name may change along with his job and location in the USA, he remains true to type – the strong, silent, stalwart type – that has to rely on old skills though he’d much rather turn over a new leaf. I really like this character.

What I liked: * Asher Reed: originally met in book one as Beauregard Smith, porter, living in Witness Protection, under care of US Marshalls, enjoys reading detective mysteries, owns a ginger cat named Travis, strong, protective, loves his grandmother, sees the bigger picture, still has a thing for Daphne

* Travis: ginger cat, escape artist, goes by many names, a fun addition to the story

* The Mystery Mavens and Beautiful Bookworms that were in the middle of things all of the time – a bit annoying at times with their chatter but they had good hearts

* The idea of a Mystery Writers and lovers convention and a murder taking place during it

* The twists and turns, clues that were spot-on and those that were way off base

* That there were more than one who could have been the thief/thieves or the killer

* The mystery of who killed Ramon and how it all plays out to solve the mystery

* That Daphne Winterbourne made a cameo appearance to keep the romance aspect still alive and that even if it was a peck of a kiss…it did happen

* The supporting characters and the parts they played

* Wondering where Beau will end up next and what sort of muddle he will find himself in that he has to be extricated from

* All of it really except…

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

* That Beau and Daphne still haven’t managed to get together

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 Stars

BLURB

A man still in hiding. A murdered friend. This is no time for knitting. Asher Reed is about to have the worst day since he started working at Coastal Haven, the oldest hotel in Marlowe Bay, Georgia. A flu outbreak has sent most of the staff home, leaving only a skeleton crew to keep the current guests happy. Unfortunately, the hotel is also hosting the annual Mystery Readers of America conference, so things are about to get busier for the only porter on duty. The weekend becomes even more complicated after a couple of figures from Asher’s past unexpectedly arrive. When an employee is murdered, the police consider everyone in the hotel a suspect, including Asher. With the help of some mystery readers, he must prove his innocence and find the actual killer before everything falls apart. For Asher Reed is a man with a secret—one the U.S. Government has spent a lot of effort and money to keep hidden. Can he remain free long enough to locate a killer before the cops accidentally expose his real identity? If you like your mysteries light and funny, then grab Cozy Up to Mystery today.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

The Hellion’s Secret by Jess Michaels

About an Earl #2

What would you do to survive? Esme has to determine this when she runs for her life after her father dies. I loved Finn & Esme together and can’t wait for the next book in the series!

What I liked: * Esme: Lady Charlotte Esmerelda now “The Hellion”, female boxer, survivor, strong, resilient, good friend, in hiding, has done what it takes to survive, on the fence about Finn though drawn to him

* Phineas “Finn” Blanchard, The Earl of Delacourt: loving brother, intelligent, good friend, drawn to a mystery woman he realizes is the Hellion, true to himself but also to the one he ends up loving

* That I could see Esme and Finn happy together even though it was difficult at times to see how it would come about – loved their open honest mature communication

* Sebastian & Marianne: first book was about them and the overlap here is marvelous

* Jane: Esme’s friend, protective, supportive, does what she has to to survive, good friend and person to have in your corner

* Campbell Ripley: retired pugilist, owner of boxing business, trainer, protective,  supportive,

* Hoping that perhaps Jane and Ripley will have a story of their own though it won’t be in the Earl series, probably

* The Willowbys: from The Undercover Duke in the series The 1797 Club book 7 ~ Loved their appearance in this story and being reminded of their romance in the past

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing – This author never lets me down and I eagerly wait for her books

* Being able to detest Esme’s cousin and wish for his exposure

* All of it except…

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

* Thinking about the expectations of society in this era and how difficult it must have been for Lady Charlotte at so many points in her life after her father died

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Definitely

Thank you to NetGalley and The Passionate Pen, LLC for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

A new spicy historical romance from 10-Time USA Today Bestselling Author Jess Michaels Phineas Blanchard, the Earl of Delacourt, feels restless and he can’t place why. It’s like there’s some itch he can’t scratch as he goes through the motions of his duties to his title and the dissipated pleasures he finds as a rake in hells all over London. Until, that is, he encounters a mysterious woman one night. One who bewitches and challenges him in ways that keep him dreaming of her. Imagine his surprise when he later realizes she is the infamous masked female boxing champion only known as The Hellion. Esme Crawford is the daughter of a marquess and ran from her life in Society when her father died under mysterious circumstances, leaving her in grave danger. Becoming The Hellion was a way to survive and retake control of her existence. But now Finn is dancing around the edges of her deceptions and if she plays too close to his fire, she will surely be revealed and possibly burned. Neither can stay away from the other and eventually Finn discovers both her true identity and the fact that she believes her father was murdered. Now a passionate affair rages between them, and a treacherous investigation brings them closer and closer to a man more than willing to kill. Will they be able to overcome the scandal of their passion is one question. Will they survive is quite another. The second book in the About An Earl series, but it can be read standalone.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Nowhere to Hide by Margaret Watson

Blackhawk Security #11

What would you do if your sibling suddenly disappeared, and you feared they might be dead? Anne is NOT willing to let it go…she needs to know…so sets off to find out exactly where Celia is…no matter what.

What I liked: * Anne Remington: loving sister, chef, difficult childhood, protective, caring, creative, strong, resilient, and rather attracted to Noah

* Noah Brewster: ex-SEAL, ex-FBI, works for Blackhawk Security, good friend, protective, strong, knows Anne is the woman for him

* Celia Remington: loving sister, chef, survivor, trying to stay under the radar after nearly killed, intriguing and will be in the next book

* Hiram Blake: owner of The Trailhead, in need of a cook, ex-SEAL, protective, caring, strong, wise, might be interested in Mary who runs the homeless shelter

* Nick Doyle: conflicted, difficult backstory, doesn’t want to follow his father in the gangster lifestyle, rather taken with Celia, ready to leave but wants to survive if he does

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* That it was easy to dislike the bad guys and want them dealt with

* The relationships and how strong they were between Celia and Ann, Hiram and Noah, and the way the four grew stronger in trust and friendship through the book

* That I could see Anne and Noah being happy together

* Knowing that Celia’s story is coming up next

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

* Thinking about what the mind of a cold-blooded killer might be like – never could quite grasp that

* Knowing that Bobby Doyle is still alive at the end of this book

Did I enjoy 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

When Anne Remington's weekly calls to her sister go unanswered, she knows something is terribly wrong. Celia, a chef for a ruthless Las Vegas mob boss, has vanished, and Anne fears the worst. Desperate, she heads to Helena, Montana -- their agreed-upon safe haven if either ever needed help. But Celia isn’t there. While searching for clues, Anne takes a job as a cook at a local bar, the same one she and Celia visited on a long-ago vacation. She quickly befriends the bar's owner, Hiram, who becomes a father figure, and Noah, a rugged Blackhawk Security operative, whose presence stirs unexpected sparks. But when the mob boss's son arrives in Helena, hunting for Anne, her worst fears take shape -- Celia may be dead. The danger escalates when a hitman shows up, also tracking Anne down. With her life now in jeopardy, Anne must decide if she’s willing to risk everything to uncover the truth.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Snake Eyes by Ian Loome

Rogue Warrior #6

Riveting read ~ Excellent addition to the series ~ Eager for more~

What I liked: * Bob Singleton: ex-military, ex-CIA assassin, recovering alcoholic, strong, lethal, has his own moral compass, protective, good friend, willing to do what it takes, intriguing

* Justin Taylor: ex-military, saved Bob twice, good friend, husband and father, works in casino security division, good man, someone worth seeking justice for

* Adam Renton: independent hacker for hire, new in this book, someone Bob may utilize in the future

* Tim Wright: works at the casino, friend of Justin’s, helpful to Bob in this story

* Jacob Garber: a religious man who was willing to do the right thing for the right cause

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* The bank robber dynamics and their character development – though bad guys they were not as dark as others in the book

* That it was so easy to dislike the two main bad guys: the mafia man and the religious gangster

* Finding out who pulled the trigger almost killing Justin and the justice meted out to that person

* Having read most of the previous books so I knew more about Bob’s backstory

* Knowing that there will be another book in the series

* All of it really except…

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

* Thinking about how evil more than one in the story were and being glad they met the ends they did

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Yes

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

5 Stars

BLURB

They rolled the dice when they shot Bob’s friend… Casino security guard Justin Taylor is shot by a person unknown. But there’s something the shooter doesn’t realize – Justin is a friend of Bob Singleton. And now Bob’s in Philadelphia looking for payback. Bob discovers that Justin had been watching timid bank clerk Arthur as he laundered money through the casino. Arthur is being used by a ruthless gang of bank robbers – he was the inside man on their last heist. Tragically, Arthur is doing it all for love – he’s being manipulated by the beautiful Tiffany who pretends she’s a girl next door but is actually colder than Philly in December. Bob confronts the gang – at just the wrong moment. Turns out the money they robbed belongs to a major crime family who’ve finally caught up with them. Things are looking bleak in a mass-execution kind of way when quick-thinking Tiffany makes her pitch – her gang will repay their debt tenfold by knocking over a mafia-run poker game. She and Arthur will remain the gang boss’s hostages until he gets paid. Bob can’t let Arthur die and so is forced to help execute the high-risk robbery. Caught between warring gangs, desperate to avenge his friend, Bob realizes there’s only one way forward – dealing up some deadly justice. Snake Eyes - the sixth in the thrilling Rogue Warrior action thriller series. Perfect for fans of Jason Kasper, Jack Carr, and Lee Child.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

A Wraith at Midnight

A Historical Romance Anthology

Ghost stories can be read any time of the year. This book has eleven historical romances written by some authors that I have read and enjoyed before and others that were new to me. This type of collection is a great way to find a new author you might like to read again.

THE CAT WHO WALKED THROUGH WALLS by Mary Jo Putney

Childhood friends who had feelings for one another parted and thought they would never meet again end up at the same party and with the help of some magical felines manage to find their HEA.

THE NIGHT WE MET by Chastity Bowlin

A bit of a gothic feel to this one. A woman wanting to get away, a man who needs a governess for his niece, chemistry aplenty, and some negative energy to overcome.

GHOSTLY LADY OF BRAEMORE by Susan King

Friends that love one another and plan to marry suddenly are broken apart by a curse – they do manage to later work together to try to fix the situation so they can marry.

MIDNIGHT TEMPEST by Mary Wine

Forced proximity with some travel between the real world and a ghostly one that intrigued me and really enjoying the story that saw two people perfect for one another fighting for life and for one another.

LADY VENGEANCE by Jade Lee

Scottish miss who had a rough childhood is in London to find a husband but takes on the role of Lady Vengeance and in so doing meets the perfect man for her.

I have more to read and am looking forward to doing so soon.

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

4-5 Stars

BLURB

When spooky manors and or ghostly specters call, this stunning collection of haunted Historical Romance novellas is sure to answer, leaving you breathless with ethereal, romantic tales… Welcome to A WRAITH AT MIDNIGHT anthology! Many of your favorite Historical Romance authors have come together for a collection of never-before published stories inspired by legendary hauntings and ghostly myths. A derelict old castle? A spectral lady wandering the forests? These tales will give you a chill, a thrill, and have you reading them over and over. From the moors of Devon to the ballrooms of Regency London, and far north into the Scottish Highlands, these stories will bring you wistful dreams of legendary and haunting romance. You’ve never before experience a collection like this by some of the very best authors in Historical Romance. Authors in this anthology Mary Jo Putney Chasity Bowlin Susan King Mary Wine Jade Lee Maeve Greyson Paula Quinn Ruth A. Casie Sandra Sookoo Aurrora St. James E.L. Johnson Lock your doors, light your candle, and settle down to this smashing collection of darkly-tinged romantic stories with unforgettable heroes, magnificent ladies, and perhaps a spectral pet or two. Romance has never been so daring… or so haunting! Read in Kindle Unlimited!