Review: The Summer House

Synopsis:

When Flossy Merrill summons her children to the beloved family beach house to celebrate their father’s eightieth birthday, both cherished memories and long-kept secrets come to light in this charming and lyrical novel from the author of The Lake Season and Mystic Summer.
Flossy Merrill has managed to—somewhat begrudgingly—gather her three ungrateful grown children from their dysfunctional lives for a summer reunion at the family’s Rhode Island beach house. Clementine, her youngest child and a young mother of two small children, has caused Flossy the most worry after enduring a tragically life-altering year. But Samuel and his partner Evan are not far behind in their ability to alarm: their prospective adoption search has just taken a heart-wrenching turn. Only Paige, the eldest of the headstrong Merrill clan, is her usual self: arriving precisely on time with her well-adapted teens. Little does her family know that she, too, is facing personal struggles of her own.
No matter. With her family finally congregated under one seaside roof, Flossy is determined to steer her family back on course even as she prepares to reveal the fate of the summer house that everyone has thus far taken for granted: she’s selling it. The Merrill children are both shocked and outraged and each returns to memories of their childhoods at their once beloved summer house—the house where they have not only grown up, but from which they have grown away. With each lost in their respective heartaches, Clementine, Samuel, and Paige will be forced to reconsider what really matters before they all say goodbye to a house that not only defined their summers, but, ultimately, the ways in which they define themselves. 
Featuring McKinnon’s “sharp and evocative” (Kirkus Reviews) voice, this warm-hearted novel is perfect for fans of Elin Hilderbrand and Mary Alice Monroe.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Summer House by Hannah McKinnon is a superb summer read. A story about a family dealing with a lot of issues. The mother forces her kids back to the summer house. There she hopes to help them deal with their issues and maybe, find some peace. A worried mother over grown children. The mother herself has something to share with her children. She plans to sell their summer house. A place full of childhood memories for the children who are now, grown adults. The journey is rocky at first but smooths over as the pages are turned. Emotional, stunning, and heartfelt. 

Hannah McKinnon writes well. Her characters are believable. Each one adds to the plot. A different issue like the lost of a husband. Readers will easily relate to the them. I was able to understand and love the characters. The mother was the centerfold of this family. Strong, dependent, and clever. She loves her family. Caring, loving, and sweet. I couldn’t put this book down…The Summer House lured me from my seat and deep onto its pages. A deep entertaining read. One that pulled at my heart strings all the way. Overall, I recommend this novel to readers worldwide. Loss, love, and healing. 

Review: Any Dream Will Do

Synopsis:

Shay Benson adored her younger brother, Caden, and that got her into trouble. When he owed money, Shay realized she would do anything to help him avoid the men who were threatening him, and she crossed lines she never should have crossed. Now, determined to start fresh, she finds herself in search of a place to stay and wanders into a church to escape from the cold.
Pastor Drew Douglas adored his wife. But when he lost her, it was all he could do to focus on his two beautiful kids, and his flock came in a distant third. Now, as he too is thinking about a fresh start, he walks through his sanctuary and finds Shay sitting in a pew.

The pair strike up a friendship—Drew helps Shay get back on her feet, and she reignites his sense of purpose—that, over time, turns into something deeper, something soulful, spiritual, and possibly romantic. Even Drew’s two children are taken with this woman who has brought light back into their lives. Perhaps most important, Shay learns to trust again as she, in turn, proves herself trustworthy to her adopted community.

But Caden’s return to town and a disastrous secret threaten to undo the life Shay has tried so hard to rebuild. It will take the utmost courage and faith if she and Drew hope to find healing and open their hearts to a brighter future.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Any Dream Will Do by Debbie Macomber is as close to a realistic story as possible. Everything felt real. It was like reading a person’s journey from the rough life to a good one. A young woman has had trust issues due to the men in her life. With no One But a brother as family and as a friend, Shay had to learn a lot of lessons. Including, not trusting her baby brother. He relied on her and she made a bad choice because she thought it was a life or death situation. Her brother used her. Broke his promise and left Shay to deal with the consequences. Shay went to prison, lost her bank job, and is dealing with a lot of emotions. Anger, fear, and survival mode. After being released she finds no where to go. Stepping into a church, Shay’s life turns around….she meets Paster Drew. 

Pastor Drew is another interesting character. He and his very young kids lost a loved one. A wife and mother. Drew was hopeless and lost until he meets Shay. He sees hope for her. Even though she can’t. She has a tough attitude but inside she’s good. Drew calls a friend and help Shay into a program for women like her. Because he helped her, Shay forms an attachment of trust, liking, and hope towards him. Drew can’t help but feel good knowing he helped her. Something about Shay also gives him hope for the future. Then there’s his kids. Both meet Shay. Shay loves them as much as they love her. 

Debbie Macomber has written an inspiring tale here. I couldn’t stop reading it. The whole story made me cry, smile, and fall in love. Lost souls finding their ways after a tragedy. A little faith, hope, and love go a long way in this novel. Those who have been through a tough time can easily relate to both Shay and Drew’s issues. Struggles can make or break us at times. But it’s about continuing even when we have nothing else to lose. Overall, I recommend this contemporary to all. Any Dream Will Do is a must read. 

Review: Maybe I Do

Synopsis: 

She doesn’t believe in fairy tales. He is married to his job. Maybe whiskey is the secret ingredient that will bring them together—and give true love a shot in Nicole McLaughlin’s Maybe I Do?

Wedding photographer Charlotte Linley loves her work—even though she hates weddings. Sure, she still holds a grudge after being left at the altar by her high-school sweetheart. But today Charlotte is just happy to have complete control over her career, which is flourishing. Especially since she joined forces with one of the three gorgeous owners of The Stag, a boutique distillery that has become Kansas City’s hottest wedding venue.

Dean Troyer, bitter after the end of his own marriage, knows that Charlotte is the real deal—beautiful, talented, and successful. He may flirt with her every time she comes to The Stag but Dean is determined to keep his professional distance. . .particularly now that she’s helping him with his own sister’s wedding. The only problem? The more time Dean spends with Charlotte, the deeper their connection grows. Is this a rom-com cliché or could it be that these two jaded souls in the wedding business have finally found their real-life happily ever after?

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Maybe I Do by Nicole McLaughlin is a sexy sweet contemporary read. I was addicted from the first page. Here, the writer has brought together two kind people. Each one has their own fears that they struggle with, as well as their attraction to each other. Dean is forty-one- years-old. He feels old. Yet he stays fit. Packing a six pack and not a single grey hair, he’s every woman’s fantasy. Including, Charlotte’s. Dean was married once, and it didn’t work. Plus, he’s hiding a secret. Then, there’s Charlotte who was almost married. Her fiancée didn’t meet her at the aisle. Now, she works as a photographer photographing weddings mostly. Charlotte also holds a secret of her own. 

Maybe I Do fits in perfectly. Each protagonist finally figures out that maybe they do want a happily forever…but will their fears stop them? Nicole McLaughlin created a beautiful yet emotional journey. I cried, laughed, and fell in love. Two older people falling deeper for one another. Their lust, attraction, and fears have a long way to go. It was easy to relate to the characters. Hopeful, funny, and well-developed. This book felt so real. Truly, a heartfelt romance. Overall, I recommend this to readers everywhere.

Review: Need You Now

Synopsis:

Welcome to the small island town of Cloud Bay, where it’s never the wrong time to find a love that’s oh-so-right. . .

Caleb White knows what he wants out of life—and being a star tennis player is not it. After speaking to the press about his plans to retire, Caleb decides that a trip to quaint, beautiful Cloud Bay for its legendary music festival is exactly what he needs. There will be time to figure out what to do with his life without a racket in his hand soon enough. Until then, Caleb is content to be stuck on an island with CloudFest’s gorgeous director Faith Harper. . .

The daughter of a famous rock star, Faith knows all about fame, fortune, and hot flings that aren’t meant to last longer than a few good songs. Gorgeous, built Caleb is a temptation she can’t resist, but she’s not prepared for the way he makes her feel. . .and the dreams that they both share. What begins as a carefree distraction deepens into something real. But is Caleb ready to put his celebrity behind him and give life in the slow lane with Faith a chance?

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Need You Now by Emma Douglas is a hot summer read. The instant chemistry between characters lured me further into the book. The daughter of a musician is needing a new fling. She soon spots a sexy man with the bluest eyes. Attraction hard and fast. Later on, Faith finds out who he is. The famous Caleb White, star tennis player, who has recently retired. Both start out wanting a good distraction. A no strong relationship. But the more they’re together the harder that becomes for them both. Sparks fly everywhere. Hot, sexy, and fun. Emma Douglas has created an exciting contemporary novel. I was entertained. In the beginning the pages dragged a bit in speed, but soon took off fast. Need You Now suits this book well. Both Faith and Caleb need each other in their lives. But the question lingers if they will figure it out…overall, this was an engaging story. 

Review: Leave the Night On

Synopsis:

Love, betrayal, and sweet revenge—life in Cottonbloom is about to get a whole lot hotter . . .

Sutton Mize is known for lavishing attention on the customers who flock to her boutique on the wealthy side of her Mississippi town. So when she finds a lace thong in her fiancé’s classic cherry-red Camaro, she knows just who she sold it to: her own best friend. In an instant, Sutton’s whole world goes up in flames. . .

Wyatt Abbott has harbored a crush on Sutton since he was a young kid from the other side of the tracks. He witnessed Sutton’s shocking discovery in the Camaro at his family-owned garage—and it made him angry. What kind of man could take lovely, gorgeous Sutton for granted? But then Sutton comes up with an idea: Why not give her betrothed a taste of his own medicine and pretend that she’s got a lover of her own? Wyatt is more than happy to play the hot-and-heavy boyfriend. But what begins as a fictional affair soon develops into something more real, and more passionate, than either Sutton or Wyatt could have imagined. Could it be that true love has been waiting under the hood all along?

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Leave the Night On by Laura Trentham is full of excitement. From betrayal by a best friend and from a fiancée, a false relationship, and a path to new love…I was hooked. The main character, Sutton is a strong woman. She’s more than just daddy’s little rich girl and more than a beauty. Wyatt is now, a mechanic. The best around his side of town. He can’t deny his attraction to Stutton. Something about her always had his interest. Stutton’s life was going well, until she and Wyatt find her ex cheating on her. From there, revenge, sweet lies, and a whole lot of action happen. I was intrigued with every page. I couldn’t stop reading it. Leave the Night On fits this story well. The plot was fast-paced. Entertaining, engaging, and hilariously sweet. I loved it. Laura Trentham has done it again. Creating another magical world where I got lost within the pages. Overall, I recommend this contemporary romance to all. 

Review: A Wedding Tail

Synopsis:

’TIL DEATH DO US BARK…

Wedding planner Zoe Plum has brides from all walks of life vying for her services. The only problem is: happily-single Zoe doesn’t actually enjoy weddings—but that might change when she meets the singer of a local band playing at one of her weddings. His name is Levi Dolson and he’s too gorgeous for his own good. And now he’s gone ahead and charmed her new dachshund. . .

It’s no secret that Zoe doesn’t believe in fairy tales, but that doesn’t stop her from wanting to make sweet music with Levi. While she’s convinced she doesn’t need a man, when someone starts setting one trap after the next to make sure she never plans a wedding ever again, she might need Levi in more ways than she could have imagined. But just how far is Zoe’s hidden enemy willing to go? The only thing Levi knows for sure is that he will do everything in his power to protect the woman who brings music to his soul. Maybe that will prove to Zoe, once and for all, that he is a man worthy of her heart. . .

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

A Wedding Tail by Casey Griffin is spectacular. It combines murder, mystery, and romance into one amazing read. This is also a great book for animal lovers. Especially, those that love dogs. An adopted wiener ends up rescuing his adoptive mother from a murderer. She ends up saving the man who has become so much more to her than just hot kisses. Her heart is totally in love with him. Now, it’s up for her to call the shots. The murderer was a character that I didn’t expect to be the killer. Surprises are everywhere in this book. Humor, intrigue, heat, and an unforgettable emotional journey. Casey Griffin has once again, hooked me. Her books are worth reading. I was so happy that her latest novel, A Wedding Tail, turned out perfect. Crazy brides, a weddding gone wrong, a flirtatious man, someone sabotaging Zoe’s business and much more…this, was one adventure I’ll never forget. Hilarious, sweet, and engaging. Overall, I highly recommended this title to all. 

Review: The Kentucky Cure

Synopsis:

Elise Newton is your classic non-committer. Although this time…this guy, Darren Masterson is giving her a run on her oath to staying single forever. After all, that’s how her mother raised her–never let your guard down and get sucked into forever. Before she has to decide what to do, she gets called home to take care of her mom, fresh out of foot surgery. While in Kentucky, she runs into Ben, her first love–the one who almost lassoed her with a ring and an ‘I do’ twelve years ago. 
Follow Elise’s journey to understanding why she can’t commit, and you’ll discover the one she can’t live without.
*title was previously released as A Reason to Stay*
Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Kentucky Cure by Julieanne Dove is a great journey. A young woman who has commitment issues may find her cure after all. The main character, Elise, was believable. I felt like she kept running away from life over and over again. It was hard to feel what she was really feeling. I couldn’t really get a good grasp on it in the beginning. Then, towards the middle I discovered why she has the issue. But again, I couldn’t really connect with her. Instead, I felt more connection to the guys who loved her. Heartbreaking, heartfelt, and emotional. The whole story felt sad. Until the ending…it was great. It was worth reading the ending. The title fits the plot well. Overall, Kentucky Cure is a contemporary romance novel that is entertaining. 

Review: Virgin River

Synopsis:

“Wanted: Midwife/nurse practitioner in Virgin River, population six hundred. Make a difference against the backdrop of towering California redwoods and crystal-clear rivers. Rent-free cabin included.” 

When the recently widowed Melinda Monroe sees this ad she quickly decides that the remote mountain town of Virgin River might be the perfect place to escape her heartache, and to reenergize the nursing career she loves. But her high hopes are dashed within an hour of arriving: the cabin is a dump, the roads are treacherous and the local doctor wants nothing to do with her. Realizing she’s made a huge mistake, Mel decides to leave town the following morning.
But a tiny baby, abandoned on a front porch, changes her plans…and a former marine cements them into place.
Melinda Monroe may have come to Virgin River looking for escape, but instead she finds her home.

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Virgin River by Robyn Carr is an exciting adventure. One that took me to a small-town, Virgin River. There isn’t a school, no Starbucks, and her promised quarters is falling apart. Not like what the woman said on the phone to get Melinda to come to Virgin River. Apparently, nothing was what it seemed. First, Melinda gets stuck in mud with her fancy BMW. Her living quarters is dirty and falling apart. And the doctor doesn’t want her there to help him. 

But then things changed. A baby is found outside her place. Someone abandoned it. Then, Melinda decided to stay for a little bit. Using that little bit of time, a former marine works his butt off to make her own place new and clean. Plus, he’s attracted to her. Doing his damn best to keep apretty young medical woman in town proved to be a challenge. One worth doing. 

Melinda wanted out of L.A. Danger was everywhere. She couldn’t handle the pressure of fear that amounted with the amount of criminals everywhere. Then, she finds out about Virign River. A small-town looking for someone like her. A safe and quiet place to move. Melinda found a lot of surprises in Virgin River. Tested her will power and determination. 

Virgin River is a novel about community, small-towns, and new beginnings. I loved it. Robyn Carr swept me from my chair into her sweet, charming, and romantic tale. This book was engaging from start to end. Overall, I recommend it to all. 

Review: Woman Enters Left

Synopsis:

A woman sets out on a cross-country road trip, unknowingly tracing in reverse the path her mother traveled thirty years before.
In the 1950s, movie star Louise Wilde is caught between an unfulfilling acting career and a shaky marriage when she receives an out-of-the-blue phone call: She has inherited the estate of Florence “Florrie” Daniels, a Hollywood screenwriter she barely recalls meeting. Among Florrie’s possessions are several unproduced screenplays, personal journals, and—inexplicably—old photographs of Louise’s mother, Ethel. On an impulse, Louise leaves a film shoot in Las Vegas and sets off for her father’s house on the East Coast, hoping for answers about the curious inheritance and, perhaps, about her own troubled marriage.

Nearly thirty years earlier, Florrie takes off on an adventure of her own, driving her Model T westward from New Jersey in pursuit of broader horizons. She has the promise of a Hollywood job and, in the passenger seat, Ethel, her best friend since childhood. Florrie will do anything for Ethel, who is desperate to reach Nevada in time to reconcile with her husband and reunite with her daughter. Ethel fears the loss of her marriage; Florrie, with long-held secrets confided only in her journal, fears its survival.

In parallel tales, the three women—Louise, Florrie, Ethel—discover that not all journeys follow a map. As they rediscover their carefree selves on the road, they learn that sometimes the paths we follow are shaped more by our traveling companions than by our destinations. 

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Woman Enters Left by Jessica Brockmole is an interesting adventure. A young woman suddenly learns that she inherits quite a lot from a woman she barely knows. This only intrigues her curiosity. As the plot unfolds, she finds more clues. Turning to her father she learns about her past. Then, there’s the situation with her husband. Not exactly on best terms, but then she learns things about her husband. Understanding sets in and maybe forgiveness too. It was a heartfelt story that holds a lot of details in the beginning…making the plot feel a bit like it’s dragging but then, it picks up speed. I enjoyed following the main protagonist, Louise. Her marriage and history is fascinating to follow. Overall, I recommend this tale to readers everywhere. 

Review: Between Lost and Found

Synopsis:

Janelle Marshall’s life is finally going according to plan. Her perfect, upscale career–and her perfect, successful boyfriend–will make her future as secure and predictable as her childhood never was. And with luck, Little Bill, the grandfather who raised her will someday understand why she’d rather play it safe than be impulsive. But just when she should be happiest, she gets a distressing call: Little Bill has gone missing. Now Janelle must go to the one place she’s long avoided–the tiny mountain town of Mammoth Falls, South Dakota.

Tracking down her eccentric grandfather is easier said than done, and Janelle has no choice but to stay as long as it takes. Yet little by little, she’s drawn in by the unique town, the helpful locals, and their distinctly straightforward ways. Before long, she realizes that those who also care about Little Bill are struggling with their own vulnerabilities–and secrets as deep as the mistakes they try to set right. As Janelle learns to draw on their support and hard-won experience, she’ll challenge her past, comes to terms with her present–and chart her own surprising course forward.

Vibrant, heartfelt, and uplifting, Between Lost and Found is about gaining the courage to take chances, learning to let go, and rediscovering the family–and the self–you thought you knew… 

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Between Lost and Found by Shelly Stratton is a great read for women everywhere. It’s about family, life, and taking chances. I enjoyed following the characters as they went about their lives. Choices were made and some consequences happened. It was an enjoyable journey. This was my first book that I’ve read by Shelly Stratton. In the beginning it dragged some but then sped up a little. A woman’s grandfather goes missing…so, she leaves behind her perfect life to head back home to him. There she finds some peace. Facing her fears, Janelle learns a lot. But it takes her grandfather to help her a bit. The title fits in perfectly with the protagonist. Overall, it was a great read. 

Review: Look At You Now

Synopsis:

CHICAGO TRIBUNE BESTSELLER – For readers of Orange Is the New Black and The Glass Castle, a riveting memoir about a lifelong secret and a girl finding strength in the most unlikely place.

In 1979, Liz Pryor is a seventeen-year-old girl from a good family in the wealthy Chicago suburbs. Halfway through her senior year of high school, she discovers that she is pregnant–a fact her parents are determined to keep a secret from her friends, siblings, and community forever. One snowy January day, after driving across three states, her mother drops her off at what Liz thinks is a Catholic home for unwed mothers–but which is, in truth, a locked government-run facility for delinquent and impoverished pregnant teenage girls.

In the cement-block residence, Liz is alone and terrified, a fish out of water–a girl from a privileged, sheltered background living amid tough, street-savvy girls who come from the foster care system or juvenile detention. But over the next six months, isolated and in involuntary hiding from everyone she knows, Liz develops a surprising bond with the other girls and begins to question everything she once held true. Told with tenderness, humor, and an open heart, Look at You Now is a deeply moving story about the most vulnerable moments in our lives–and how a willingness to trust ourselves can permanently change who we are and how we see the world.

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Look at You Now by Liz Pryor is well-written. A memoir that is sad. Secretive, heartbreaking, and coming of age. I am happy that the parents nor the writer opted for an abortion. That made my heart happy. My heart still poured out to the baby she left behind…why, do pregnant girls get rid of their children? Why? I still can’t understand it. Then, the same girl goes on to have more kids later in life. Why not go back for the child she gave up? I felt frustrated, angry, and emotional. So many questions on what life did her abandoned child live…did it go to a good home, was the child safe? Then, I wondered did the woman even care? She didn’t even want to look at the child. I felt so disconnected from this woman. Her story tore at my heart. I have been in foster homes. Most kids don’t go to good homes. Look at You Now was devasting to read. I didn’t enjoy the journey. However, my feelings should not affect on whether this book was worthy of reading. It was well-told. The writer’s voice was done well. The writing was visual. Engaging. 

Review: Stargazey Point

Synopsis:

Shelley Noble’s Stargazey Point is a beautiful story of love, heartbreak, friendship, and new beginnings.

Devastated by tragedy during her last project, documentarian Abbie Sinclair seeks refuge with three octogenarian siblings, who live in a looming plantation house at the edge of the world.

South Carolina’s Stargazey Point used to be a popular family beach resort, but the beaches have eroded, most of the businesses have closed, and the crowds have gone. It’s the perfect place to hide from the rest of world.

But hiding is harder than she thought it would be. There’s a wise Gullah woman who seems to see into Abbie’s soul, and an intriguing man on a quest to bring Stargazey Point back to life.

Stargazey Point by Shelley Nobel is the perfect beach read any time of year.

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Stargazey Point by Shelley Noble is a fascinating tale. Full of action, intrigue, and heartfelt moments. It instantly grabbed my heart from the beginning. I laughed, cried, and fell in love. The characters were amazing. Felt so real. It was almost like magic. The plot itself was interesting. Believable. Like stepping into a Hallmark movie. Shelley Noble’s words created a deeper meaning. Family, community, and new beginnings. Every page made me feel as if I were really there with the characters. 

Stargazey Point is a small southern spot that readers will love. History, culture, and the people who live there come to life on every page. Until now, I haven’t read any other books by Shelley Noble. I’m very happy to have read this one. A woman who feels depressed from her past is soon sent by a friend to Stargazey Point. There, she stays with her friend’s family. Two older women and an older man. Southern charm is turned up full notch here. Big southern plantation that somehow survived a storm that ruined the once thriving town. Money is almost out for one family. The brother has a kept secret that may come to save them and their home. Abbie comes looking for peace and ends up bringing life into the town and the people she met. It was hard not to like Abbie. She struggled with her own demons. Yet she gave everything she had to help others. Then, there’s Cab. He at first mistrusts her…but after knowing her a bit she soon engages his full attention. Sparks fly. But first fears have to be solved if they they even stand a chance at happiness. Themes like friendship and love are strong. Shelley Noble has done a superb job in creating this masterpiece. Entertaining, emotional, and charming. Overall, I recommend it to others. 

Review: Even When It Hurts (Seventy Times Seven)

Synopsis:

Maxine Hunter and Reverend Claude Jacobs have been engaged for a year and unable to decide on a final wedding date. The delay for their marital bliss comes in the form of Claude’s longtime friend, Geneva Shade. Geneva is in love with Claude and has decided she’s going to do whatever it takes to be with him, even if it means damaging his life. Claude is unaware of Geneva’s mental illness, which makes him oblivious to her sinister tricks to break up him and Maxine. Maxine’s eyes are wide open to Geneva’s games, but after one incident too many, Maxine is finally pushed to her breaking point. Claude finally sees Geneva for who she really is, but it’s seemingly too late. Will Claude and Maxine be able to forgive Geneva and each other, Even When It Hurts? 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Even When It Hurts: Seventy Times Seven by D.A. Kelley is an African American novel that shows how hard life can be. The characters struggle just like the rest of us. Choices are made. Sometimes more often than not, they make the wrong decisions. This, then leads them to instant regret. A torn relationship and insecurities. Taking the steps to accept, forgive, and move on will be hard. If they can forgive where will that leave them? Anger, lust, and evil planning are just a few things keeping the characters apart. But what God pushed together, might be fixed…or not. D.A. Kelley wrote a book that all women can relate to…even most men. We all have had something similar happen in our lives. I enjoyed how she combined real life and issues like mental illness into an entertaining read. Overall, I recommend to to readers everywhere.

Review: When Summer Comes

Synopsis:

Welcome to Whiskey Creek— Heart of the Gold Country!
One day, Callie Vanetta receives devastating news…

She needs a liver transplant. But her doctors warn that, in her case, the chances of finding a compatible donor aren’t good.
Determined to spend whatever time she has left on her own terms, she keeps the diagnosis to herself and moves out to her late grandparents’ farm. She’s always wanted to live there. But the farm hasn’t been worked in years and she begins to fear she can’t manage it, that she’ll have to return to town.

One night, a stranger comes knocking at her door…

He’s an attractive and mysterious drifter by the name of Levi McCloud, and he offers to trade work for a few nights’ shelter. Callie figures she doesn’t have anything to lose. He needs a place to stay until he can fix his motorcycle; she needs an extra pair of hands. The arrangement seems ideal until what was supposed to be temporary starts to look more and more permanent. Then she realizes she does have something to lose—her heart. And, although he doesn’t yet know it, Levi stands to lose even more. 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

When Summer Comes by Brenda Novak is a charming tale. I recommend this book to be added to readers’ to be read pile. Brenda Novak has never once let me down with her books. Not once.  This story, has elements that wind their way around my heart and soul. Choices, second chances, and new beginnings. Life is scary. Here, in Brenda’s latest book, I got a taste of it. Callie is a woman going through a rough patch. Her liver is failing her. She hides her pain from almost everyone. Especially, the new stranger who found his way into her heart. Callie felt the instant attraction to Levi. Hit her like a ton of bricks. His broad shoulders and height make him impossible to forget. He’s also got a heart made of gold. 

Levi has had a bad life. His parents’ marriage failed. His mom ran away with his sister. Leaving him behind with the abusive control freak of a dad. Actually, he father was never a parent. Levi left for the army as soon as he could. Escaping from his father. But then, he has also experienced loss too. His lost a child and his woman. Levi still blames himself for her death. Now, on the run from hitting a copy who hit him first, Levi needs a place to hide. But it only leads him to bleeding on Callie’s porch. From there the two bond. Even Callie’s dog likes Levi.  Untrouble never goes away…a past and present danger seem to tangle into the characters lives. Maybe there is hope after all…

Brenda Novak has stunned me with this book. I couldn’t stop reading it. Love, risks, and life threatening situations make this an exciting read. I was hooked. Intrigued. When Summer Comes is sweet, spicy, and everything in between. Falling in love with the story just happened…overall, this is a must read for all. 

Review: Maybe This Summer

Synopsis:

Always a wingman . . .

Owen McConnell is used to being ignored. After all, it’s only when he appears as the Colorado Avalanche’s team mascot that he gets all the attention. When the costume is off, women tend to gravitate toward his famous hockey player friends. But after he meets lovely, damaged Paige Adams, he knows he can be the star player for her. She’s raising funds for the hospital burn unit, and Owen’s determined to help her out—and sweep her off her feet.

The burn unit has been near and dear to Paige’s heart ever since the doctors helped her after a vicious attack. Yet the scars—both emotional and physical—haven’t faded as much as she’d hoped. She’s closed herself off from relationships, and the thought of opening up is terrifying. But Owen’s sexy charm might be just the push Paige needs to start loving again.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Maybe This Summer by Jennifer Snow is a heartfelt novel. This was the perfect summer read. I instantly connected with the main characters. Their stories were they’re own secrets. Both felt some shame from what they do and what they are. Scars both physical and emotional have them wound up tight. The first time, Owen laid eyes on Paige, he knew she was it. She was the woman for him. Owen has had women pass him up for his hockey buddies. It was hard to imagine that since, Paige described him as hot and sexy. He too has physical scars like her. Yet all she saw was a sexy as sin man standing before her. Owen doesn’t see Paige as a women with scary scars. Instead he sees a beautiful, caring, smart woman. Paige works hard to help the burn center that helped her. Owen struggles with his own demons just like Paige. In a way, they both help each other move forward. Helping each other feel more confident in their skin. I loved that part of the story. Jennifer Snow took a realistic opportunity and brought it to life in an entertaining way. A way that opens up readers’ hearts. Understanding what it was like for both Paige and Owen holing onto and letting go of their insecurities was an eye opener. Overall, I highly recommend Maybe This Summer to readers worldwide. 

Review: Miracle on 5th Avenue

Synopsis:

It will take a Christmas miracle for two very different souls to find each other in this perfectly festive fairy tale of New York! 

Hopeless romantic Eva Jordan loves everything about Christmas. She might be spending the holidays alone this year, but when she’s given an opportunity to house-sit a spectacular penthouse on Fifth Avenue, she leaps at the chance. What better place to celebrate than in snow-kissed Manhattan? What she didn’t expect was to find the penthouse still occupied by its gorgeous—and mysterious—owner. 

Bestselling crime writer Lucas Blade is having the nightmare before Christmas. With a deadline and the anniversary of his wife’s death looming, he’s isolated himself in his penthouse with only his grief for company. He wants no interruptions, no decorations and he certainly doesn’t appreciate being distracted by his beautiful, bubbly new housekeeper. But when the blizzard of the century leaves Eva snowbound in his apartment, Lucas starts to open up to the magic she brings…This Christmas, is Lucas finally ready to trust that happily-ever-afters do exist? 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Miracle on 5th Avenue by Sarah Morgan hold so many meanings. Deep, raw, and emotional. The journey for each character was sad, funny, sexy, and heartfelt. Delicious meals, hot sex, and  frustrated individuals during Christmas makes for a great read. Both lost someone special to them. Lucas lost his wife the night she told him she didn’t love him anymore. Eva lost her grandmother and Lucas’s grandmother is her friend. Almost like a second grandmother to her. Mistzy hires Eva to bring Christmas to her grandson, aka Lucas’s apartment. To Eva, he was supposedly in Vermont. However, both she and Lucas get the surprise of a lifetime. Between being strangled, calling 911, and being sexually attracted to one another, their time is interesting. I couldn’t help to laugh, cry, and love them. Lucas’s grandmother was also another character I admired and loved. She added humor, wit, and understanding to the tale. Christmas is approaching…Eva is a romantic and Lucas has a writer’s deadline. Can they both get what they wanted plus, more? Miracle on 5th Avenue is exactly that. Miracles do happen. Sarah Morgan’s writing was beautifully done. I highly recommend it to all. 
P.s. This should be a Hallmark movie. 

Review: City Affairs

Synopsis:

“THIS BOOK REIGNITED MY LOVE FOR A GOOD ROMANCE”
An epic tale of heartbreak, despair, hope and second chances, inspired by a real life story. Felicité has a reasonably successful career, working in London’s Canary Wharf financial district; and is a faithful, doting wife. Her husband is an author and serial cheater. After catching him cheating for the umpteenth time, she sets him an ultimatum. Meanwhile, a dreamy mega-rich hedge fund manager has been showering her with attention. A chance encounter one lunchtime will have profound ramifications beyond her wildest imagination.
As she struggles to make sense of everything, she is forced to confront her inner demons and grapple with the difference between fate and destiny. A strange confluence of circumstances conspires to present her with her greatest dilemma yet. 
The book is set in London, with scenes in France and New York. 

Rating: 5-stars

Review: 

City Affairs by Seb King is an exciting yet realistic romance. Readers like myself will get to travel to some of the best cities while exploring the brewing romance between characters. It was easy to read and relate to the situations that popped up…Seb King made his characters real. His words entertaining. New beginnings, choices, and the chaos of life are explored on every page. City Affairs one emotional journey that I recommend to women everywhere. 

Review: Then He Kissed Me

Synopsis:

Can two hearts come together in one divided town?

As a boy, Nash Hawthorne spent countless afternoons on the Louisiana side of Cottonbloom with Tally Fournette, wading in the river, peeling oranges and catching frogs. When illness stole his mother, Nash yearned to take Tally and run away—for good. Instead, he crossed the state line to live with his aunt. It was a short distance as the crow flies, but it swept him into a whole new world…

After Nash left, Tally managed to struggle through her own losses without him. But now that she’s crossed paths with him again—at Cottonbloom College, where the grown-up, gorgeous Nash teaches history—she is reminded of their cherished youthful connection…and an attraction that has only gotten stronger with age. Between Tally’s possessive ex and Nash’s snobbish aunt, no one thinks they belong together. In a town torn apart by old resentments and rivalries, can they find their way back to the life they once shared—and turn their long-lost dreams into a real and lasting love? 

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Then He Kissed Me by Laura Trentham is both funny and heartfelt. Two best of friends separated due to circumstances. One lost his mom…and another lost both her parents. Almost twenty years later, they are finally reunited. Sparks fly. Hot, intense, and unavoidable. Tally barely made it out of high school, where as her friend Nash has a Ph. D and is teaching college. The only difference in him since the last time she saw him was his physical appearance. Nash was once the kid everyone picked on…and now, he was super hot and brilliantly smart. As they hang out together, their attraction grows and becomes more obvious to each other. I laughed a lot throughout this book. Laura Trentham created a fun, sexy, and entertaining romance. A summer read that I recommend to all. Friendship, drama, and new beginnings. Then He Kissed Me is exciting. 

Review: The Billionaire Next Door

Synopsis:

Can’t Buy Me Love

It’s Tag Crane’s job to be the life of the party. Traveling from one exotic locale to another is just part of running the luxurious Crane Hotel empire. But even paradise isn’t perfect. Devising a new business strategy is keeping Tag up at night-and so is the Great Dane barking at all hours in the apartment below his. To muzzle the problem, Tag charges downstairs . . . right into the most beautiful, blond distraction he’s ever seen.

Dog-sitting by day, bartending by night. It’s not exactly the life Rachel Foster dreamed of. But when Tag Crane rushes in, all mountain-man shoulders and obscenely sexy smile, needing her help for the Crane Hotels, it’s a fantasy come true. What’s the harm in a fun no-strings fling? Only a fool would give her heart to a billionaire player like Tag-until suddenly the one man who can’t be caught is the one flirting with forever . . .

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Billionaire Next Door by Jessica Lemmon is the sexiest romance I’ve read. Twinges with a sweetness that squeezes my heart. Rachel Foster just ended her two-year relationship. Her ex was a complete arse. He told her she wasn’t good enough and then he took her designs to use for himself. What a total jerk! Now, Rachel left the company and works at a bar. There she stumbles upon an older gentleman who gives her just what she needs. Hope. As a dog sitter by day and bar tender at night, Rachel can save up for her own place. That’s when fate knocks her for a loop. Sexy as sin neighbor…a billionaire to be exact. He owns the hotel she’s staying at…one moment of seeing each other is not enough. Tag Crane wants to know who she is, and he wants her in his bed. Something about Rachel brings the Tarzan in him. I laughed and fell in love with the characters. Their story was hot, fun, and believable. Jessica Lemmon did a superb job in creating an exciting contemporary romance. I was hooked. Overall, I would recommend this novel to all. 

Review: Dear Prince Charming

Synopsis:

Too short to be a model, too unartistically inclined to be a designer, Valerie Wagner has finally found her niche in the fashion world she loves as the publicist for Glass Slipper, Inc., and the mastermind behind the launch of their brand-new glossy magazine. She’s signed up the perfect cover model – Prince Charming, an advice columnist who’s won the hearts of millions of women with his acerbic wit and his on-target romantic insight. Best of all, he’s never revealed his real name or shown his face. Until now. And it’s Valerie who’s about to bring him into the limelight. There’s just one problem. America’s sweetheart, the sexy and sensitive man who’s helped millions of women get their man, is coming out of the closet with a vengeance. 
Valerie’s new-found career is teetering on the brink of ruin. She can’t crush the hopes of all the buyers of the magazine. She can’t get Eric out of his seven-figure contract. And Prince Charming himself is tired of living a lie, and wants to find his own Mr. Right. Looks like there’s no way out. Until Eric offers up his childhood best friend Jack, a sportswriter with a devilish smile and a chain of ruined relationships behind him. With Eric as the brains of the operation and Jack as the heartthrob that the media can sink its teeth into, they’re an unbeatable team, and no one ever has to know… until Jack notices that behind Valerie’s overachiever businesswoman personality is a woman with her very own kind of charm, and he decides to take matters into his own hands… 
Fresh, sexy, and funny enough to have come from the pen of Prince Charming himself, Donna Kauffman transcends the boundaries of romance and chick lit to take her own particular twist on a fairy tale.

Rating: 4-stars 

Review:

Dear Prince Charming by Donna Kauffman was a great romantic read. I loved the intensity of the characters’ situations. Tough spots that may put their careers and hearts on the line. The protagonists were believable. The whole book felt real. Entertaining and easy to follow along. Valerie is one determined woman. Thinking of her career in fashion, she finally makes it. A lot of falls before she finally soars high. Maybe, a bit too high. She’s now, tasked with a rather difficult job. Finding the perfect person will be difficult. Yet, the impossible becomes possible. And things that weren’t thought of happen…like falling in love for starters. Donna Kauffman’s book is charming and holds a major does of reality. I liked that. Overall, I recommend it to other readers. 

Review: Starting Over on Blackberry Lane

Synopsis:

Time for a Change—or Three! 

Stefanie Stahl has a husband with renovation ADD. He can’t seem to finish anything he starts and her house is littered with his “projects.” If he doesn’t smarten up, she swears she’s going to murder him and bury him under the pile of scrounged lumber in the backyard.  

Her friend Griffin James is suddenly single and thinking maybe she needs to sell her fixer-upper and follow her career bliss up the ladder of success, even if that scary ladder is clear across the country. Getting her place ready to sell proves harder than she originally thought. She needs help.  

She’s not the only one. Cass Wilkes, their neighbor, has an empty nest—with a leaking roof. When her ceiling crashes in, she knows it’s time to do something. When Grant Masters offers his handyman services at a fund-raiser auction, the three women go in together to outbid the competition and win their man. (Cass’s friends think she should win Grant in a different way, too!) Now, it’s time to make some improvements…in their houses and their lives.

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Starting Over on Blackberry Lane by Sheila Roberts is an interesting women’s fiction piece. I liked the sweet romance that was brewing. The three female friends each had their own issues. One dealing with her husband who starts but doesn’t finish projects, another is feeling lonely, and the last one just got out of one relationship and may dive into another. The themes were friendship, love, and second chances. 

Steph has a husband who does construction. The only issue is that he starts many projects but hasn’t gotten anything done yet. Her frustration is understandable. However, I didn’t like her attitude towards her husband. He’s a sweet man who only wants to make his wife happy. Only he feels like whatever he does, she doesn’t approve…

Cass is my favorite of the three women. She is separated from her ex, has three adult kids, and her roof collapses on her. Cass feels lonely. It was super easy to connect with her. I felt her loneliness througheach lage. Until a certain construction guy comes to town. Then both their lives change. 

Last but not least, is Griffin. She’s finding that her current relationship isn’t working. So, she’s left with ending it. From there she wants to pursue a career somewhere else…but then, a man steps into her life and things may just get interesting…

Overall, Starting Over on Blackberry Lane is a great read. Definitely, for women everywhere. The characters were believable and so were their situations. Readers like myself can connect immediately due to the realistic telling of the story. I recommend it to readers everywhere.

Review: Comeback Cowboy

Synopsis:

A WOMAN NEVER FORGETS HER FIRST COWBOY . . .

As a single mother, Naomi Sullivan is used to doing things on her own. She’s finally saved enough from working at the Cortez Ranch to buy a lovely home for her and her little girl. Life is going as planned. But when her high school sweetheart comes riding back to town, this self-sufficient woman feels something she hasn’t felt in years: red-hot, unbridled need for the handsome cowboy who left her behind.
Lucas Cortez doesn’t plan on being in town long. Yet when he sees Naomi again-the gorgeous girl he never stopped loving-he’s tempted to hang up his hat and stay awhile. He’s already charmed his way into her daughter’s heart, but he’ll need more than sweet talk and roses to convince Naomi to give them a second chance-especially when she’s hiding a secret that could change their lives forever . . . 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Comeback Cowboy by Sara Richardson is a heartfelt contemporary novel. I was hooked. Intrigued. Sara Richardson knows exactly what readers like myself want in a romance. Hot, sexy, yet charming characters. An emotional journey that left me laughing, crying and falling in love. I couldn’t stop reading this book. 

Yes, the title is a perfect fit. A cowboy does comeback. He stuck up for his younger brother. That led him to being in jail. Everyone in his small-town home, hates him. Thinks Lucas is a no good man.  It what they don’t know, was that he did what he could to save his younger brother. But that also meant he lost out on a life with his woman…Naomi Sullivan. 

Naomi Sullivan has never stopped loving her crush. Lucas Cortez. He had her heart back then, and still owns it. But now, that he’s back, she’s been avoiding him. Or was, until she almost ran him over with her truck. From there, he meets Naomi’s daughter and falls in love. Life gets more complicated and messier than they ever thought…

Mark is Naomi’s ex. He left her and now, after ten years he wants to be a part of their daughter’s life. But Naomi isn’t sure. Plus, she’s not sure her daughter is his. 

Comeback Cowboy is exciting. Every page is hot, intense, and addictive. I loved following the characters as all hell broke loose. Sara Richardson truly knows how to entice readers. I look forward to reading her next book. Overall, I highly recommend it to all. 

Review: The Wedding Arrangement

Synopsis:

The author of Just Say Yes is back with another sweet and sultry Strictly Business novel about working hard and falling harder into an unexpected romance…

 

Love doesn’t always follow the same schedule…

 

Alex Walker doesn’t need a woman in his life. In fact, he doesn’t have time for one. Between his career in the FBI and the demands of being good father, romance is an unwanted distraction. 

 

Likewise, Cassidy Mullen is fine on her own. The independent career woman has never had a husband in her plans—forget about kids. But when her friend Alex gets into a bind with his ex over their daughter, Cass finds herself suddenly playing the part of Alex’s stable, child-loving fiancée—and liking it a lot more than she’d care to admit.

 

Soon Alex and Cass can’t deny the real passion growing between them. But as fake affection turns into real love, Cass and Alex will have to make a choice: say “I Do” to their feelings or give up on happily-ever-after for good… 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

The Wedding Arrangement by Elizabeth Hayley is an emotional journey. It pulls me in deeper. The lives of the characters feels real. I got lost within their emotions, thoughts, and actions. Strong, sad, funny, and sweet. Cassidy aka Cass and Alex are best friends. They also sleep together at times. Cass is a working woman but cares deeply about helping her friend Alex. Alex is having issues with his ex-wife about taking care of their seven-year-old daughter. Sometimes, he gets called for a special investigation seeing as he’s an FBI agent. His ex makes him feel like the worst father ever. He loves his daughter. Cass sees that. So, out of the blue she ends up fibbing to Alex’s ex about them being engaged. At first he’s even more frustrated but then as Cass explains her reasoning, he goes with it. Neither one thought of love. But life is messy, complicated, and charming. Alex is this super sexy alpha that has a good heart. He even has a good sense of humor. Cass lacks the normal humor as an adult but she has a good heart too. She can’t cook but she does make a good fake stepmom and fake fiancée. Only here…the fakeness starts to become real for both. Neither realizes it at first. Overall, I enjoyed reading this entertaining contemporary romance. Sexy as hell and engaging. I recommend The Wedding Arrangement to readers everywhere. 

Review: It’s in His Kiss

Synopsis:

ONE KISS CAN LAST FOREVER

Becca Thorpe has uprooted her life and escaped to the beach. Now’s her chance to get away from city living, throw caution to the ocean winds, and live in the moment. Especially, if the moment includes the deliciously sexy surfer she meets shortly after arriving in Lucky Harbor. Something about the dark intensity of Sam’s eyes and the thrill she gets at his touch convinces her to stay awhile.
Boatbuilder and investment genius Sam Brody is a self-made man who knows how dangerous it can be to mix business and pleasure. But he can’t resist offering Becca a job just to hear her laugh and have her near. Yet when her brother comes to town asking for help, will he tempt her back to her glamorous life in the city? Or do Sam and little Lucky Harbor have a chance to win Becca’s heart? 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

It’s in His Kiss by Jill Shalvis is a sexy contemporary tale. The physical and emotional need between the characters felt so real. It was like experiencing it first hand rather then being the spectator. Jill Shalvis is indeed a talented writer. Believable characters and scenes. The emotional journey is a constant struggle among the protagonists. Heart felt, engaging, and beautifully told. This book swallowed me up whole from the first page and it didn’t spit me back out until the last word. Funny, charming, and hot. Heat packed with tension and intense make it or break it moments. I wasn’t sure where the couple were headed. All I knew was that I wanted them together. Family was one major theme inside this tale. Family life changes the protagonists in many ways. But also, they end up changing their families too. I really liked that part. 

Jill Shalvis shows readers how to face their fears. Living in the past doesn’t help the characters, Becca and Sam to move forward. Facing their issues, opening up by communicating together, and by letting their hearts open they can do anything. Love. It’s pretty when it happens. Messy, complicated, hot as hell. It’s in His Kiss is exactly that. Kisses from Sam make Becca melt into his arms. She can’t think straight when he looks at her or kisses her. Same with him. Becca drives Sam crazy. Her heart of gold warms him up to her. Plus, she’s sassy and smart. Sam is stubborn, smart, and hot. Together their chemistry flies off the pages. Overall, I highly recommend this novel to all.

Review: He’s So Fine

Synopsis:

For Olivia Bentley, Lucky Harbor is more than the town where she runs her new vintage shop. It’s the place where folks are friendly to strangers-and nobody knows her real name. Olivia does a good job of keeping her past buried, not getting too cozy with anyone . . . until she sees a man drowning. Suddenly she’s rushing into the surf, getting up close and personal with the hottest guy she’s ever laid hands on.

Charter boat captain Cole Donovan has no problem with a gorgeous woman throwing her arms around his neck in an effort to “save” him. In fact, he’d like to spend a lot more time skin-to-skin with Olivia. He’s just not expecting that real trouble is about to come her way. Will it bring her deeper into Cole’s heart, or will it be the end of Olivia’s days in little Lucky Harbor? 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

He’s So Fine by Jill Shalvis is sweet, charming, and hilarious. This contemporary romance is one that I highly recommend to all readers. Inside, I met two families. Complete opposites. Drives the main characters crazy and mad at times, but there is so much love. Hidden past comes colliding with Olivia’s present life. She finally found a new clean slate. Just as things were going perfect, her past tears it apart. Cole. He is a sexy as hell kind of man but also has a heart of gold. He’s been betrayed in the past by his girlfriend and best friend. Trust doesn’t come easy. Olivia is scared to fall in love with Cole just as he’s afraid of falling for her. Too late. Love has hit them both hard in the chest. Only time will tell where they go from here. I was hooked. Jill Shalvis brings her charcaters to life. I fell in love immediately. The humor is throughout the book. Family, new beginnings, and second chances. Overall, this was a well-told and unforgettable tale. 

Review: Love in the Deep South

Synopsis:

Meet the young and beautiful Laydii Mitchell from Memphis TN. An 18-year-old high school senior on her way to college, and seems to think she is on top of the world. She’s dating the up and coming hustler, John Jackson; who is loved by the ladies, and hated by most guys. The two seem to think that their bond is unbreakable, that is; until something happens that rocks the both of their worlds. Will they be able to remain that “forever it” couple, and continue to stand above all, or will life’s hard knocks finally bring them to their knees? 
— Keya Harris, is Laydii’s best friend, who can’t seem to stop her cheating boyfriend Samuel White, from sticking his penis in places it doesn’t belong. She fights with any and everybody to remain that number one lady in his life, only for him to disregard her efforts; by hitting a little too close to home with his cheating ways. Will this couple be able to rise above all obstacles and come out on top, or will Keya finally get fed up with the bull, and decide to leave. 
—- Aaron Thomas is the man to see. He started out hustling at the tender age of 15, and is now headed on his way to the top at just 24. In his young life, he’s seen more money than he knows what to do with; which makes him a hot commodity for the ladies. However, he isn’t checking for the local “gold diggers,” as he is well aware of their intentions of getting with him for his money. His focus lies elsewhere; on one particular female that is seemingly “unavailable. Will Aaron finally be able to get the woman he has been “vying” for, and finally have his happily ever after? 
—- Toni Simpson is Laydii’s younger fifteen-year-old sister. She is young and carefree, as most girls are at that age. However, she’s more than just your typical teenager, as she so badly wants to be grown and take on the world way before her time. Unaware of the ill intentions of those surrounding her; she goes and gets herself into a situation that even she’s not so sure she can get out of. Will Toni be able to return to that once carefree teen, or will fatal circumstances force her to grow up before she is really ready. 
With drugs, lies, sex, murder and betrayal; many will be left devastated, and trying to find their way out of this twisted web of chaos. Ride along with these characters, as they take you on a journey around the dirty south city of “Memphis.” 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Love in the Deep South (A Memphis Hood Tale) is a wonderful novel detailing the lives of those who live in Memphis. The language was beautifully done. The charcaters were believable. I felt as though the writer, N.L. Hudson, transported me from my seat straight into her book. Once inside, the drama was thick, entertaining, and well-told. However, the content is graphic and recommended for those 18 and above. Sex, drugs, and murder inside….overall, I recommend this African American novel to readers everywhere. 

Review: Destined to Last

Synopsis:

Lady Kate Cole was a young woman of exceptional beauty, extraordinary talent, and notable charm. She was also a woman so remarkably prone to accidents that it was generally considered wise to keep as much distance from her as possible.
Yet Andrew Hunter simply couldn’t stay away. No other woman would do for his wife. He would give her adventure, fidelity, and a fortune so vast she’d need several lifetimes to go through half of it. What woman could ask for more?
All Kate asked for was a true love match. And Mr. Hunter clearly had no room in his heart for such a silly emotion. But then how was it that no matter what adventure he dragged her on, no matter what mishap befell her, the look in his eyes told her they were…DESTINED TO LAST. 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Destined to Last by Alissa Johnson is a sexy yet scandalous romance. A young woman turns downs suitors all for the search of true love. Yet one man bids his time. Trying to learn what she likes and wants from a suitor. Thinking he may have her yet, he makes a bold reach. It was entertaining to watch Andrew Hunter try to lure Lady Kate to him. Men think they understand women until the breaking moment comes. Hilarious, charming, and well-told. Destined to Last is indeed a fascinating adventure. Overall, I highly recommend this historical to all. 

Review: Asking for Truffle

Synopsis:

When Charity Penn receives a letter saying she won a trip to Camellia Beach, South Carolina complete with free cooking lessons at the town’s seaside chocolate shop, The Chocolate Box, she’s immediately skeptical. She never entered any contest. Her former prep school friend offers to look into the phony prize–only to end up drowned in a vat of chocolate. Struck with guilt, Penn heads to the southern beach town to investigate why he was killed. But as wary as she is of the locals, she finds herself lured into their eccentric vibe, letting her defenses melt away and even learning the art of crafting delicious chocolates. That is, until delight turns bittersweet as she steps straight into the midst of a deadly plot to destroy the seaside town. Now, only Penn’s quick thinking and a mysterious cask of rare chocolate can save the town she’s learning to love. Rich and decadent, Asking for Truffle, the first in a new cozy series by Dorothy St. James, is sure to be a delectable read for fans of JoAnna Carl and Joanne Fluke.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Asking for Truffle by Dorothy St. James is an exciting cozy mystery. Dorothy St. James brings readers murder, mystery, and romance. I love chocolate. The main protagonist is a fan of chocolate herself. Easy to connect with and likable. Charity Penn has always felt like something was missing in her life. Her mother was gone and her father moves quickly from woman to woman. All she had was an elderly woman took her in like a mother would. However, Penn soon finds trouble. She receives a letter which causes so much suspicion that she sends her best friend on the case. Only, he ends up dead. He found something. Told her to come there quick. And after that his body was found. The whole town thinks he was into drugs and that’s what caused his death. But Penn knew better. Her guess work soon leads into an investigation of crazy events. Money, chocolate, and greed. Penn and her new friend, a fury snapping dog head out to find answers. Asking for Truffle is indeed the perfect title. Suits well for this book. I loved it. Engaging from beginning to end. I look forward to reading more mysteries by Dorothy St. James. Overall, I highly recommend this novel to all. 

Review: Train Wreck

Synopsis:

train wreck

noun
1. A chaotic or disastrous situation.

2. An utter catastrophe or mess.

3. A devastating calamity or source of trouble.

4. Pepper O’Brien.
As the daughter of a famed film producer, Pepper O’Brien is Hollywood royalty.
Also, her life sucks.
Because, unfortunately for her, the old adage is true: money can’t buy everything—including grace, true love, or the ability to not screw up every single opportunity her life has brought her.
After her latest disaster, Pepper moves across the country to start over but, as usual, her life has other plans, namely in the form of Derek Cashette, her former teenage crush and now ridiculously handsome friend of her older brother.
Derek is determined to salvage the train wreck of her life and Pepper’s determined not to let him. Her life is her problem and, dammit, why can’t she be her own hero?
But sometimes fate has other plans. Or maybe it’s hormones. Especially, when her rescuer comes with a killer smile, a chest Thor would be jealous of, and a butt that any girl just wants to.

Rating: 4-stars

Review: 

Train Wreck by Elise Faber is one hot mess. A young woman has constant trouble. She’s determined to leave and go about living life without help from others. Only that plan comes to a crumble when her long time crush enters the equation. Attraction, lust, and love. Pepper can’t ignore accidents nor ignore the smoldering chemistry with Derek. However, Derek is keeping Pepper in his view constantly due to a pack made with her daddy. Train Wreck is an emotional wreckage of emotions. Two flames and one major issue. I enjoyed reading this contemporary romance. It was funny, sweet, and engaging. Overall, I recommend it to readers everywhere. 

Review: The Little French Bistro

 

 

 

Synopsis:

From the New York Times and internationally bestselling author of The Little Paris Bookshop, an extraordinary novel about self-discovery and new beginnings.

Marianne is stuck in a loveless, unhappy marriage. After forty-one years, she has reached her limit, and one evening in Paris she decides to take action. Following a dramatic moment on the banks of the Seine, Marianne leaves her life behind and sets out for the coast of Brittany, also known as the end of the world.

Here she meets a cast of colorful and unforgettable locals who surprise her with their warm welcome, and the natural ease they all seem to have, taking pleasure in life s small moments. And, as the parts of herself she had long forgotten return to her in this new world, Marianne learns it s never too late to begin the search for what life should have been all along.

With all the buoyant charm that made The Little Paris Bookshop a beloved bestseller, The Little French Bistro is a tale of second chances and a delightful embrace of the joys of life in France. (less)

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

The Little French Bistro by Nina George is an interesting read. It took me to the Seine in France. Once there, the protagonist’s life seems so,Little that she risks losing it forever. Then, given another chance she seems to find her way. But only with the help of strangers. Her knowledge of their world and language is little to none. I found it strange how she was able to hold down a job without knowing the language but it was entertaining. The pacing is steady. Some may find it too slow or not exciting enough. But to me, it was believable. The main character lost her way and may end up having found it again. A purpose to living. Overall, this read is recommend for women everywhere. A great summer read.

Review: Ahe’ey

Synopsis:

Morgan’s feminist books didn’t prepare her to deal with the dashing Gabriel and the land of Ahe’ey . . .
Ahe’ey: The Complete Collection
Morgan is a dreamer, change maker and art lover. She is a feisty, slightly preachy, romantic feminist full of contradictions and insecurities. Morgan uncovers a world where women have the power, and where magic is no longer just a figment of her wild imagination. Sounds like a dream, but it may, in fact, turn into a nightmare.
The world of the Ahe’ey challenges and subverts her views about gender, genes, and nature versus nurture.
The strong and uninvited chemistry between her and the dashing Gabriel makes matters even more complicated. His stunning looks keep short-circuiting her rational mind.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Ahe’ey by Jamie Le Fay is a fascinating paranormal fantasy. This novel contains a lot of strong themes that are brilliantly woven into an enjoyable read. I loved the characters. Jamie Le Fay definitely knows how to write a book that sucks readers into her fictional worlds. Entertaining from the start. The main characters, Morgan and Gabriel have ways of pulling me further into their story. Powerfully written. Excitement, adventure, intriguing and romantic too. Ahe’ey has it all. I couldn’t stop reading this book. Jamie Le Fay is indeed a talented writer. Her words are epic. 

Review: Jennifer Brown’s Journey

Synopsis:

Five feet one and full of fizz, Jennifer Brown lights up the room. She has a gorgeous partner, a wicked best friend, and a boss who doesn’t mind that she’s the worst typist on the planet. She’s loyal, generous and irredeemably ditzy. Everyone loves Jennifer Brown. But can she learn to love herself? When her world caves in, she needs every ounce of her steely core to step back from the abyss and take charge of her life, reinventing herself first as cook and housekeeper to a saucy sexagenarian, then as manager of a tumbledown country estate with sensitive secrets.

Peopled by a battalion of hilarious characters from the caustic, cross-dressing confidant to the besotted ex-boyfriend with a barmy ex-wife, Jennifer Brown’s Journey is a heartwarming, thoughtful, often poignant portrait of the trials of life as a thirty-something woman.Jennifer Brown champions the importance of self-belief, and the value of a bucket-sized glass of wine in a tight spot. And, always in the background, there’s the quiet man with the warm eyes and the velvet vowels. What on earth is Jennifer Brown going to do about him? 

The first in a series of three, Jennifer Brown’s Journey is a story of female self-empowerment and the triumph of the human spirit in the face of challenges that many women will recognise. Lighthearted and poignant, the story gives readers a very real sense of a woman, initially rather ditzy, maturing into a redoubtable, self-possessed individual who faces her many challenges with developing aplomb. 
Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Jennifer Brown’s Journey by Angie Langley is an entertaining book from beginning to end. The main character, Jennifer Brown, is an ordinary woman. She’s stuck at a job that she doesn’t like nor do well. Her episodes of mistyping memos is hilarious. I love her humor. Jennifer isn’t sure what she wants to do. She feels like she’s the only one growing old. Her journey from one job to another is exciting. There is plenty of juicy scenes to enjoy. Drama to respecting herself, Jennifer Brown has a journey that is just beginning. Angie Langley has created a fun atmosphere. Her character feel real. Their troubles are easy to understand. A laugh out loud comedy that is alluring. Overall, I recommend this novel to all. 

Review: The Accidental Honeymoon

Synopsis:

What happens in Vegas…

When Georgie discovers that her fiancé has been cheating on her, only a few days before her cousin’s wedding, her whole world explodes. Facing a romantic trip to Vegas alone, she decides to go out and have some fun…
…but Georgie never expected to wake up wed! And even worse, she can’t remember who to. So when gorgeous Jack reveals himself as her husband, she can’t believe her luck – he’ll act as the perfect wedding date!
Even if it is their very accidental honeymoon, surely the newlyweds can keep their emotions in check for just a few days more?
Don’t miss the laugh-out-loud romantic comedy from Portia MacIntosh, author of It’s Not You, It’s Them. Perfect for fans of Rosie Blake, Sophie Kinsella and Lindsey Kelk. 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

The Accidental Honeymoon was a perfect summer read. It has humor, romance, and a good dose of reality. I would give this title a perfect 5-stars if only the pacing at the beginning was a bit faster than what it was. Felt like it was sluggish. However, skip over that bit and readers like myself are entertained. I couldn’t stop reading this…Portia Macintosh cleverly wove a tale that hooked its laws deeply into my soul. I had toknow what the main characters were going to do and where they would be afterwards. I wasn’t disappointed. The family of the heroine were interesting. British, funny, and charming characters. The man that gets stuck with the heroine is different. Sure his looks are good to melt any woman near him, but something about him keeps driving Georgie crazy. She keeps him at a distance but she can’t deny she’s attracted. Jealousy, anger, lust, and love are on the horizon. Bring old boyfriends and a cheating ex to the mix and it’s all fun and excitement for readers. I truly enjoyed reading this new novel. Overall, I recommend The Accidental Honeymoon to all. 

Review: Wish You Were Here

Synopsis:

From the USA TODAY bestselling author of Before We Were Strangers and Swear on This Life comes a novel about a young woman who reunites with a soulful artist after their magical one-night stand…only to be faced with an impossible decision.
Charlotte has spent her twenties adrift, floating from interest to interest, job to job, and guy to guy, searching for a spark but never quite finding it. All she knows is that she won’t discover it working as a waitress at a pies-and-fries joint in Los Angeles or living with her fun but aimless best friend in a tiny apartment in the Arts District.
Then Charlotte collides with Adam, a gorgeous and soulful painter who seems just as lost as she feels. Their instant connection turns into a midnight drink…and a whirlwind night of champagne, Chinese food, and the kind of conversation that only happens in romantic comedies. But the next morning, Adam gives Charlotte the cold shoulder, leaving her confused and hurt—and wondering if the few odd moments between them the night before were red flags in disguise.
Months later, Charlotte hasn’t been able to shake Adam, so she decides to find out what happened the morning after their magical night together. This fateful decision rewrites their wild love story, but what Charlotte doesn’t know yet is that the ending has already been written.

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Wish You Were Here by Renee Carlino is a stunning read. This novel, shows readers what it’s like to find oneself and where they fit in the world. The main character has had just as many jobs as she’s had boyfriends. Then fate comes shaking her world up…and before she knows it, she’s falling in love. Someone else loves her, but she loves the complete stranger instead. Life can be as cruel as it is kind. Love, chances, loss, and new beginnings are found in this emotionally intense tale. I cried, laughed, and fell in love. These characters made the world seem lighter and fuller. Opportunities comes and go…but some may never leave us. Those will end up being a part of our happily ever afters. Maybe. Wish You Were Here was well-written. I was entertained from the first page. I didn’t know what to expect next. I liked the susprises. Renee Carlino is talented. Overall, I highly recommend this read to women worldwide. 

Review: In the Fullness of Time

Synopsis: 

In this sequel to Hattie’s Place, the year is 1913. Hattie Robinson is married to the widowed Charles Barton and has left her teaching position at Calhoun School to raise Charles’s sons and manage the Barton estate. Now she must reconcile her role as mother and wife with her work for woman’s suffrage, a cause that ignited her passion when attending the Woman’s Suffrage Procession in Washington, on the eve of Woodrow Wilson’s first inauguration. 
As a young bride, twenty-three years her husband’s junior, Hattie struggles for acceptance in the community and Barton family. And then, Will Kendrick, her first love, appears, causing old feelings to resurface. When Julia Martin, the widow of Charles’s best friend Percy, reaches out to Charles for legal advice in settling her husband’s estate, Hattie discovers clues casting doubt on Charles’s fidelity, and begins to question her marriage. 
As Hattie throws herself into her work to gain the vote for women, South Carolina’s reactionary politicians Ben Tillman and “Cotton Ed” Smith thwart suffrage efforts in the state at every turn. Even the progressive president Wilson drags his feet, invoking states rights as the only pathway to an amendment. Equally discouraging is the anti-suffragist sentiment among those of Hattie’s own gender. 
When Hattie’s sister-in-law Alice learns to drive and purchases a 1916 Saxon touring car, Hattie agrees to go on a road trip to join the peaceful protests in Washington on the eve of President Wilson’s second inauguration. Alice also invites Julia Martin to go along, and to Hattie’s chagrin, Julia is sitting in the passenger seat when the two arrive from Columbia to pick her up. The journey brings new insight and fresh perspective, enabling Hattie to resolve misunderstandings with Charles and convincing her to continue her work for suffrage, with her husband’s blessings. 
But the road Hattie has chosen becomes even more fraught with disappointing setbacks and delays. In 1917, the US declares war on Germany and the president mobilizes the country in the fight for freedom in Europe, ignoring the oppression of the rights of women at home. Public opinion shifts, casting the women’s movement as unpatriotic and subversive. 
Hattie does her part for the war and agonizes when Charles Jr. and the boys from Calhoun are drafted and sent to the front. She continues to support the suffrage cause, but must cancel a second road trip due to gas rationing. 
When the war ends, she travels with Alice and Julia and Charles Jr.’s fiancée Pauline, to Washington to join the peaceful protests at the White House, organized by Alice Paul and the Woman’s Party. The women become inspired to drive on to New York to join the demonstration against president Wilson, who is speaking at the New York Opera House on the eve of his return to the Paris peace negotiations. The peaceful demonstration turns violent when the police and soldiers, who have flooded the ports on their return from war, begin shoving the suffragists and breaking and burning their banners. 
Amidst the uproar, Pauline becomes convinced that she has spotted Charles Jr. in the crowd and is determined to go and look for him. Hattie persuades her that they must first go to police headquarters to find Alice and Julia, who have been arrested and detained there. 
The Susan B. Anthony Amendment finally passes the Senate in 1919. But Hattie and the South Carolina suffragists endure their greatest disappointment yet when the South Carolina legislature refuses to ratify the amendment by an overwhelming majority. They must now depend on the men of other states to ensure their enfranchisement. 
In August, the Tennessee legislature becomes the thirty-fourth state to ratify, ending the long struggle for suffrage, and making the 19th Amendment the law of the land, just in time for Hattie to cast her first vote in the 1920 presidential election.

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review: 

In the Fullness of Time by Katherine P. Stillerman is a historical detailing the very life of one woman, Hattie Robinson. She lives during the time period of the women’s suffrage movement. A very important and trying time for women everywhere. Not every woman wanted to get involved due to the consequences men tossed their way. But others like the protagonist kept going. Luckily, she had a husband, who understood and gave her his blessings to continue work for the movement. An exciting adventure awaits readers. I was fascinated, hooked, and lured deep in the South. Women fighting to have the right to vote. I loved the female protagonist. Hattie is an incredible woman that all women can easily like and relate to…overall, I highly recommend this book to all. 

Review: A Real Prince

Synopsis:

THE BACHELOR PRINCE

A man who happens to be a prince…
Stefano Giorgio Paolo is the heir to the throne of his small country, and he’s come to America in search of a bride. A wealthy bride who can help save his kingdom from financial ruin. But the woman he actually wants is Hope Jordan—who has nothing to offer him except her love. Can The Bachelor Prince give up his throne for the woman he loves?
YESTERDAY’S HERO
A prince of a man…
Renowned photographer Cain Hawkins proposes a marriage of convenience to marine biologist Leah Talmadge—so she won’t have to miss the adventure of a lifetime, an expedition to study the rare whales of the faraway Diamantina Islands. The governor denies permission for an unmarried man and woman to share living quarters. The obvious solution is marriage. A temporary solution, they think. As it turns out, there’s more to this marriage than convenience—and Cain’s a lot more than Yesterday’s Hero! 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

A Real Prince by Debbie Macomber is a 2 in 1 read. Two novellas inside one amazing book. 

The first tale is about a prince whose country is in a bad state. Financially speaking, it needs to find a way to get money flowing again. The prince’s only way to save his country is to find himself a rich bride. However, he finds a woman who steals his heart instead. She doesn’t have money to offer him, but her love is so much more than he imagined. The prince isn’t the only man who finds someone to love…

The second tale is about a photographer who teams up with a female biologist to go on a lifetime adventure. The only catch is that only a married couple can go on this trip…so, a fake marriage of convience happens and the unexpected happens. A life altering change for both. Love hits them hard when they least expected it. A beautiful gift is given to them as well. 

A Real Prince by Debbie Macomber was well-written. Heartfelt, chariming, and sweet. Romantic too. Each of the characters felt real. Their lives were believable. The situations they’re in were fun to watch unfold. Every page was entertaining. Overall, I highly recommend it to all. 

Review: Swan Point

Synopsis:

#1 New York Times bestselling author Sherryl Woods draws readers back into the world of strong friendships and heartfelt emotions in Serenity, South Carolina
Determined to build a new life for her family after her divorce, Adelia Hernandez has bought a home in the historic Swan Point neighborhood of Serenity. Promoted to manager of Main Street’s most fashionable boutique, she feels revitalized and ready for a fresh start as a single mom. But barely into this new independent phase, she crosses paths with the sexiest man to hit Serenity in years.
Gabe Franklin, back in town to make amends for past mistakes, has no intention of settling down, but Adelia’s proving irresistible. Cheered on by their friends, “the Sweet Magnolias,” Gabe is bringing long-absent passion and laughter into Adelia’s life. To his surprise—and hers—sometimes a rolling stone is just what it takes to build the rock-solid foundation of a family.
“Woods’ readers will eagerly anticipate her trademark small-town setting, loyal friendships, and honorable mentors as they meet new characters and reconnect with familiar ones in this heartwarming tale.” —Booklist on Home in Carolina 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Swan Point by Sherryl Woods is a heartfelt novel. A feel good women’s fiction. The tale features abusives husbands and nast divorces. Kids are involved and it’s up to the mothers to fight back. I was surprised to see who saved the day. A teenager struggles with her new life with her mom and siblings. She’s afraid to let another man near her or her mom again…but something about the new man…has her opening her heart to possibilities. 

Gabe struggled as a kid when his mom made bad choices. He fought off kids who made fun of his mom. The town’s gossip hurt both his mom and him. After his mom died, he left Serenity. Now, as a grown man he comes back home. There he meets Aedila and her kids. They leave footprints on his mind and heart. 

Adelia is a woman and single mother. Her divorce is just been done. Her kids and her move into a new house. The younger kids don’t understand it all yet. But her oldest, Selena does. Their dad cheated on their mom and tried using the kids against their mom. Selena hates her father for good reason. Adelia feels a tug towards the handsome Gabe. But her cheating husband isn’t done messing with her and the kids…

Swan Point brings up a lot of issues. It was messy, complicated, and sweet. Sherryl Woods knows how to lure readers deep into her books. I was both intrigued and hooked. The plot was believable and realistic. The characters have a way of wrapping around my heart. I cried and laughed. Overall, I highly recommend this novel to all. 

Review: The Bed and Breakfast on the Beach

Synopsis:

A gorgeous summer read to escape with this summer!

Three women throw caution to the wind and move from England to run a B&B on a Greek island.

They’ve all reached a point in their lives when they need a change – one divorced, one empty nester, one made redundant from the job she’s held since leaving school many moons ago.
The move tests their friendship to the limits, brings errant husbands running, and offers new opportunities for love. Each of the women go through their own metamorphosis, but will they choose to stay in Greece when the holiday season winds down?

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Bed and Breakfast on the Beach by Kat French is a lovely summer read. Full of humor, romance, and real life issues. It was hard not to connect with the women friends featured inside…

Failed marriage, loss jobs, and a cheating husband makes the three friends at point where they take what they get. A bed and breakfast place on the beach is now owned by the three of them. It was quite interesting to watch each take on the challenges of their new lives. Romance is also in the air. 

Kat French provided a refreshing piece of fiction for her fans. I haven’t read previous novels by this writer, but I did enjoy this one. Friendships, romantic entanglements, and adventure of a lifetime are filled on these pages. I was excited. Hooked. Overall, I recommend this hilarious and heartfelt tale to readers everywhere. 

Review: Skyward

Synopsis:

E.R. nurse Ella Majors has seen all the misery that she can handle. Burned-out and unsure of her next step, she accepts the temporary position as caregiver to Marion Henderson, a frightened five-year-old who suffers from juvenile diabetes.
But Ella soon realizes there is more sorrow in the isolated home than the little girl’s illness can account for. Harris Henderson, a single father, seems better able to deal with the wild birds he rehabilitates in his birds-of-prey sanctuary than with his own daughter.
Then something magical begins to happen: the timeless beauty of the South Carolina coast and the majestic grace of the wild birds weave a healing spell on the injured hearts at the sanctuary. But a troubled mother’s unexpected return will test the fragile bonds of trust and new love, and reveal the inherent risks and exhilarating beauty of flying free. 

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Skyward by Mary Alice Monroe is an enjoyable read. Unlike other women’s fiction novels, this one focused on the bird species. The predators. It was cool learning about them. The story seemed interesting but lacked that deep connection I was expecting. This was my first novel read that was written by Mary Alice Monroe. Her cover intrigued me. The pain explored inside, was believable. The relationship between father and daughter…was realistic. The themes of love, trust, and healing were engaging. I wasn’t familiar with the little girl’s diagnosis but I think the book came out great. Overall, Skyward is a raw and open read. I recommend it to others. 

Review: The Little Bed and Breakfast by the Sea

Synopsis:

A cosy and charming romance set in an English seaside town, perfect for fans of Trisha Ashley and Caroline Roberts.
Escape to the seaside this summer!

Mae loves running her little Bed & Breakfast, it’s the perfect place to raise her adorable four-year-old daughter! And no matter how persistently local vet, Alfie, chases her, she just doesn’t have time for men in her life.

Willow is busy building her dream home with her husband, Ethan, but with every month that passes she secretly worries that her happy every after will never come true…

Melody only intended to stay in the bustling seaside town for a few days to capture the perfect photo. But when she meets Hugo – the charming man in the ice cream van – she decides to stay a little longer!

One thing is for sure, summer at the little Bed & Breakfast by the sea certainly has a few surprises in store…

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

The Little Bed and Breakfast by the Sea is a sweet summer tale. Jennifer Joyce is a talented writer. Her charcaters were so believable. They felt real. I kept asking myself…are these characters real people or pieces of fiction created by a mastermind. This ummer is full of action. Love is in the air…readers like myself can feel it and the heat is scorching…however, it maintains a clean yet hilarious vibe. Three women go through life with some tough spots. Each one has a man to deal with. One has her husband, the other two will have to work at it. Love isn’t easy. Life can be messy, but it can also bring happiness as well. The entire novel was entertaining from being to end. A steady-paced plot. Blooming friendships and relationships that will tug at your heart like it did with mine. Overall, I recommend The Little Bed and Breakfast by the Sea to women everywhere. It’s a book that is easy to relate to and understand. Enjoyable romance. 

Review: The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories

Synopsis:

Jacey met the man of her dreams a year ago—and hasn’t seen him since. Finally relocating him as the pastor at her best friend’s wedding was the very last thing she expected.

A year ago, Jacey was trapped on a rooftop during a flood with perfect strangers, including a family and a man named Colin. After two days there together, she had no doubt that Colin was the man of her dreams. When they were finally rescued he tucked his phone number into her pocket. But an accident with the rescue boat left her hospitalized with amnesia and PTSD . . . and his number nowhere to be found.

Now, Jacey has still only recovered bits and pieces of her memory from that time. She clearly remembers Colin—but not his last name or any other details that would help her locate him. She’s trying to immerse herself in the joy of her best friend’s wedding . . . when she looks up at the end of the aisle only to discover Colin there in the minister’s role. Shock is an understatement.

On one hand, she’s elated to see him again. And then reality sets in. She never intended to get married or have kids. And being a minister’s wife was definitely never on her list. Was Colin not the man she thought he was? Or has the amnesia changed her more than she realized?

With the typical wit and honesty Celeste Fletcher McHale is becoming known for, it’s time for Jacey to take a fresh look at her life. Could this string of unexpected events have been setting her up for something far better than what she had planned for herself?

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories by Celeste Fletcher McHale is an enchanting tale. Love is a powerful thing, if we leapt it into our lives. Jacey isn’t sure about love. Yet life has offered her the opportunity to take it. First, she must find courage in herself. Or else lose what could have been…

Celeste Fletcher McHale has combined fear, love, faith, and hope into a masterpiece. The outcome is phenomenal. I felt sadness, fear, and hope. The main character struggles each day and little by little she transforms into a braver woman. The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories is indeed a perfect read for all. Especially, women. Memories and feelings come out and it’s up to Jacey to decide what will come. Overall, I recommend this beautifully written novel to readers worldwide. 

Review: Wedding Bells at Butterfly Cove

Synopsis:
A second chance by the sea?

When Kiki Jackson’s marriage falls to pieces, there’s only one place that she knows she can escape to – her sister’s little guesthouse in Butterfly Cove.
But she’s worried that turning up on bride-to-be Mia’s doorstep, especially with her two adorable children in tow, will spoil her sister’s imminent wedding plans!
Luckily, handsome neighbour Aaron Spenser offers to share his new cottage with Kiki until she’s back on her feet. And as the wedding draws closer, Kiki realises that Butterfly Cove may be offering her little family more than just a new home…
Maybe this is where her new life begins…?
An uplifting and heartwarming read, perfect for fans of Trisha Ashley, Rachael Lucas and Hilary Boyd.

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Wedding Bells at Butterfly Cove by Sarah Bennett is a delightful and engaging read. I was impressed with the writer’s talent. I laughed so hard and felt sympathy for the main charcater, Kiki. Kiki is a fictional charcater but one that readers like myself can relate to…I never went through some of the things Kiki did but I totally understood the family and relationship issues. Sarah Bennett created a hilarious, sweet, but believable tale. Her plot holds a lot. A divorce in the works, a lying slash cheating husband, kids who were sad, and a broken family. Plus, broken hearts that needed healing. Kiki’ children are the sweetest. My heart instantly melted for them. Then, with her bravery of leaving the abusive relationship behind, I applauded her. She went from being abused to being independent and strong. The transformation was slow but beautiful. Then, there was the handsome stranger working for Kiki’s sister, Aaron. Aaron, instantly let Kiki and her kids live in his cottage. He never met them yet what he did won me over…a blossoming romance on the horizon, a meddling older sweet woman, and a family that might just get mended. Wedding Bells at Butterfly Cove has it all. It was an emotional journey I’ll never forget. Overall, I highly recommend Sarah Bennett’s novel to all. 

Review: Rejected Writers Take the Stage

Synopsis:

After months of playing the lottery and hoping for an uptick in her dog-boarding business, Janet’s friend Annie must face the inevitable: the bank is foreclosing on her family farm. But thanks to the Rejected Writers’ Book Club, Annie doesn’t have to face it alone. With just a few weeks to raise the $20,000 that she and her fifty rescue dogs need to avoid becoming homeless, the writers need a fund-raiser, and fast. Much to Janet’s horror, Doris has another crazy plan.

In a moment of inspiration, their fearless leader declares a solution: a musical extravaganza. No one in the group has ever produced a musical, but Doris will not be deterred—they’ll write it together. And with Flora, who has never sung a note in her life, as the lead and Janet as their reluctant director—along with a hypochondriac costume designer, a pyrotechnics enthusiast, and Janet’s very pregnant daughter pitching in—what could possibly go wrong?
To produce a miracle for Annie, Janet and her friends will work around the clock holding auditions, concocting elaborate costumes, and getting a little too close to blowing themselves up—but will it be enough?

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Rejected Writers Take Stage by Suzanne Kelman is a wonderful woman’s fiction piece. The charcaters are charming. There are moments I laughed out loud, worried, and fell in love with this group. A group of writers get together to help one of their own be saved from being homeless. Their actions to save her and the dogs under her care, will be full of drama, flair, and excitement. This book is full of craziness, humor, and friendship. The sense of community in this small-town of theirs was believable. I loved following along. Suzanne Kelman’s writing is entertaining from the start to end. Overall, I recommend it to readers everywhere. 

Review: White Fur

Synopsis:

A stunning star-crossed love story set against the glitz and grit of 1980s New York City 

When Elise Perez meets Jamey Hyde on a desolate winter afternoon, fate implodes, and neither of their lives will ever be the same. Although they are next-door neighbors in New Haven, they come from different worlds. Elise grew up in a housing project without a father and didn’t graduate from high school; Jamey is a junior at Yale, heir to a private investment bank fortune and beholden to high family expectations. Nevertheless, the attraction is instant, and what starts out as sexual obsession turns into something greater, stranger, and impossible to ignore. 

The unlikely couple moves to Manhattan in hopes of forging an adult life together, but Jamey’s family intervenes in desperation, and the consequences of staying together are suddenly severe. And when a night out with old friends takes a shocking turn, Jamey and Elise find themselves fighting not just for their love, but also for their lives. 

White Fur follows these indelible characters on their wild race through Newport mansions and downtown NYC nightspots, SoHo bars and WASP-establishment yacht clubs, through bedrooms and hospital rooms, as they explore, love, play, and suffer. Jardine Libaire combines the electricity of Less Than Zero with the timeless intensity of Romeo and Juliet in this searing, gorgeously written novel that perfectly captures the ferocity of young love. 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

White Fur by Jardine Libaire is a thrilling romance. Similar to the Great Gatsby in ways. I was intrigued by this plot. Two lovers from opposite sides. Threatened and in danger all because they love each other. A love that shouldn’t be if, a particular family had its way. Perfect plans can be hard…when others are determined to see it fail even if that means a couple of lives are lost. Poor versus the rich and the star-crossed theme hits hard with this tale. White Fur is an intense love story. Filled with glamour, anger, an one brilliant emotional journey. Deep, heart felt, and exciting. Jardine Libaire kept me captivated with Jamey and Elise. Tragic yet realistic…a love story that pulls. I recommend it to readers worldwide. 

Review: Brambleberry House

Synopsis:

Come stay awhile at Brambleberry House, a place infused with acceptance, healing and heart–as only RaeAnne Thayne can imagine it.

 
His Second-Chance Family 

Julia Blair spent many happy summers at Cannon Beach and fell hard for sweet local boy Will Garrett. Now the for-rent sign at Brambleberry House seems like a wonderful omen for widowed Julia and her young children. She craves the warmth she once felt in Brambleberry House–and in Will’s arms. But before he can embrace his first love, he’ll have to lay down the burden of the past and open his heart again.

 
A Soldier’s Secret 

Struggling to rebuild her business and her life, Anna Galvez knows she’s fortunate to have inherited Brambleberry House as her rock-solid base. When she finds a handsome new tenant in injured army pilot Harry Maxwell, Anna thinks her luck–in love, at least–might be changing. Until the lieutenant’s story begins to unravel…

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

RaeAnne Thayne is a mastermind when it comes to creating the perfect contemporary romance tales. Her latest book, Brambleberry House, contains two short novellas. Each one has its way of pulling me deep into its journey. Epic, heartfelt, and well-written. The characters are to die for…

Inside, His Second-Chance Family, I got to two old sweethearts. Traveling back to their sweet moment of being 16-years-old and in love. A brief sweet kiss from a first love.  Their memory of that has stayed with them even now, as adults. One stayed and the other left. Now, many years later, fate has brought them together. Both have lost a loved one two. Their shared experience in pain, grief, loss, and love has a way of making a new path. Maybe, love and healing is in the air…

Next, is A Soldier’s Secret. Here, I got to meet a nephew of a deceased woman. His aunt gave her home to two ladies. One such lady was Anna Galvez. Her luck in love was bad. Her finance ran off with another woman and left her on their wedding day…

Now, she appears stiff as a board but there’s more to Anna than beats the human eye. With some help from a dog and the spirit of the deceased aunt…Anna and Harry might have a chance at a happily ever after. But they must overcome their fears and find courage to move forward. Love is in the air. It’s up to the charcaters to brace enoughto accept it.

Troubled hearts filled with pain, loss, and grief. RaeAnne Thayne has brought two unique tales that teach lessons of life as well as showing me that anything is possible. Love can happen when we least expect it to…overall, I highly recommend Brambleberry House to readers worldwide. The plot was enticing from the first page. Charming charcaters and tales that steal readers’ hearts.

Review: Mr. Make Believe

Synopsis:

Marnie Martin’s formerly perfect life is not quite going to plan. 
Hard-hitting newspaper journalist turned stay at home mum slash part-time (terrible) cookery columnist slash full-time day dreamer, she’s not entirely sure when it all went wrong… 
She suspects it was at exactly the moment she gave up writing the front page for the apparent bliss of perfect motherhood. But while her (tall, handsome, lawyer) husband Matt’s career is taking off, she is left behind with the impossible task of pairing socks. His late nights at the office are turning into late nights who knows where else. They haven’t had a proper conversation in weeks, sex in months, and a full night’s sleep in what must be years. Love has taken a back seat to the laundry pile and Marnie is feeling a little lost. 
So when an extended fantasy about movie star Maddox Wolfe leads to a missed deadline, a very high profile case of food poisoning, the loss of her job and potentially her husband… Marnie becomes Mrs Make Believe: Anonymous blogger, secret spiller and voice of fantasy-life spinning imperfect mums everywhere. 
Mrs Make Believe knows the bedtime battles, the marriage screw ups and the shrinking clothing (she remains a size 10, what are her clothes playing at?) only too well. She also knows that it’s ok to let your mind wander into make believe… What she didn’t know was that a movie star crush could walk off the screen and into her life, turning her already muddled world (with a husband with one foot out the door) totally on its head. 
Will Marnie be sucked back into the world of uncomfortable cocktail dresses and Botox-frozen smiles? Will she find happiness in her infuriatingly imperfect marriage or in the arms of the (literal) man of her dreams? Or will Marnie find that true love is just make believe? 

This laugh out loud romantic comedy will have you glued to your sofa. Journalist turned author, Beezy Marsh, is perfect for fans of Helen Fielding’s Bridget Jones, Tracy Bloom and The Bad Mother’s Diary. The battle through love, life and laundry should never be a one woman struggle. 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Mr. Make Believe by Beezy Marsh is a hilarious women’s fictional tale. A romantic comedy about life and marriage. Inside this book, readers will find a strong woman whose life changes after becoming a mother. Her fashion writing career comes to a halt as well as the romance in her marriage. Her career comes to a haunt, while her husband is to busy with his. Lately, he becomes more interested in his work and other things than in the woman he loved and married. 

Marriage has its ups and downs. Beezy Marsh clearly shows readers just that withevery page. However, its more complicated than just a marriage suffering. The main charcater, Marnie finds a way to combat her dead end life. She creates a column about fantasy life. Her readers become so engaged in her that she ends up selling a book. By that time, Marine will have had a romance with her fantasy crush, experienced being cheated upon,and come to realize that her love for her husband is greater than what she thought. Whether she leaves her crush for her husband is for readers to figure out for themselves. I loved following this emotional journey. 

Mr. Make Believe is the type of novel, that pulls in readers like myself. I became addicted. Page after page, the fun never stopped. The ending was just as brilliant as the beginning. Love, marriage, betrayal, and second chances are all inside this book. Beezy Marsh has a way with brining her charcaters and words to life. Over, I was satisfied with reading it. Highly recommend it to all. 

Review: Spring at Blueberry Bay

Synopsis:

Welcome to beautiful Hope Island where the sea sparkles, the daffodils are blooming and a blossoming romance is just around the corner… 
Bella has always had a sunny outlook and caring nature, despite recently falling on hard times. When she finds a handsome homeless man on her doorstep, her kind heart tells her she must help him. So, she invites Isaac into her cottage and into her life in ways she could never have imagined… 
But Isaac is not what he seems. He’s keeping a huge secret from Bella, yet he never expected to fall for this open, generous and charming woman. 
Bella can’t ignore the chemistry between her and Isaac, but she’s had her trust badly broken in her past. Will she run when she learns the truth about Isaac, or will he be the one man who can help Bella believe in love again? 
A gorgeously romantic and heartwarming story to completely lose yourself in. Perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan, Jane Costello and Miranda Dickinson. 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Spring at Blueberry Bay by Holly Martin is the best novel written by her thus far. I was instantly taken by the themes presented inside this book. Homelessness is not something to overlook yet most do. The homeless suffer from a lack of shelter, food, and other things most of us don’t take for granted. I was amazed by this writer incorporating this issue into her novel. The way Holly Martin presented the theme was believable. Not many remember or know what it’s like to be homeless. Because of my parents, I was able to understand and easily connect with it all. The other themes were of kindness, generosity, and second chances.  Beautifully woven together. 

Spring at Blueberry Bay is an exciting romantic comedy. The charcaters are charming, realistic, and hilarious. From awkward moments to heated ones…I fell in love with both Bella and Issac. Bella was left abandoned by her parents. She was then raised by her aunt and uncle. To Bella, they became her real parents. From there, I got to follow her journey as she lost a job due to her boss embezzling only from the fundraiser organization. After that, she can’t find a job. Bella applies to work for a major well-known corporation that fundraisers for the poor. This where the plot gets more exciting by the second. 

Issac then enters the story. He’s the CEO of the major corporation that Bella applied to work for…only he goes about meeeting future employees in an interesting way. Issac’s way of finding out more by his employees has always worked for him. Until, he met Bella. Everything gets messy, complicated, and heated. Something about Bella has Issac wanting more of her. But if she works for him, their relationship has to be professional only…

Holly Martin creates sizzling reads. I was deeply engaged and emotional hooked. Fast plot, intriguing scenes, and irresistible charcaters. I loved it. Overall, I highly recommend Spring at Blueberry Bay to readers everywhere. 

Review: The Idea of You

Synopsis: 

With her fortieth birthday approaching, Lucy Carpenter dares to hope that she finally has it all: a wonderful new husband, Jonah, a successful career and the chance of a precious baby of her own. Life couldn’t be more perfect.
But the reality of becoming parents proves much harder than Lucy and Jonah imagined. Jonah’s love and support is unquestioning, but as Lucy struggles with work and her own failing dreams, the strain on their marriage increases. Suddenly it feels like Lucy is close to losing everything…
Heart-wrenching and poignant, this latest work by bestselling author Amanda Prowse asks the question: what does it mean to be a mother in today’s hectic world? And what if it’s asking too much to want it all?

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Idea of You by Amanda Prowse is a powerfully written novel. A novel that all women can relate to easily. Love, relationships, and family are just a few of the themes presented inside this tale. From the beginning, I felt saddened by the main charcater’s life. She gave up her one and only child. A child that kept her wondering for forty-years, if she had a good life or not. The  Idea of You was indeed a perfect title. It perfectly worked for this read.  This same woman felt like a loner. Always single at events that couples would be attending. My heart reached out to Lucy. But then, the unexpected happens and she meets Jonah. He’s a great man. Their love is true and it made me smile to watch them as they worked out their issues and are just as happy as when they wedded.  However, a secret comes out and before readers know it, Lucy’s and Jonah’s world has been flopped upside down and inside out…then, Jonah’s daughter has a secret to tell. I felt that this tale was very believable. I can see this situation happening to anyone. Jonah’s struggles as a father and husband were tested. I loved the end results that Amanda Prowse created. So much sorrow and then some healing and laughter. Lucy went through a lot more than giving up her only child, she also miscarried. I can only imagine her hurt…overall, I highly recommend The Idea of You to readers everywhere. Emotionally deep and satisfying to read. 

Review: The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir

Synopsis:

“Just because the men have gone to war, why do we have to close the choir? And precisely when we need it most!” 

As England enters World War II’s dark early days, spirited music professor Primrose Trent, recently arrived to the village of Chilbury, emboldens the women of the town to defy the Vicar’s stuffy edict to shutter the church’s choir in the absence of men and instead ‘carry on singing’. Resurrecting themselves as “The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir”, the women of this small village soon use their joint song to lift up themselves, and the community, as the war tears through their lives. 

Told through letters and journals, The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir moves seamlessly from budding romances to village intrigues to heartbreaking matters of life and death. As we come to know the struggles of the charismatic members of this unforgettable outfit — a timid widow worried over her son at the front; the town beauty drawn to a rakish artist; her younger sister nursing an impossible crush and dabbling in politics she doesn’t understand; a young Jewish refugee hiding secrets about her family, and a conniving midwife plotting to outrun her seedy past — we come to see how the strength each finds in the choir’s collective voice reverberates in her individual life. 

In turns funny, charming and heart-wrenching, this lovingly executed ensemble novel will charm and inspire, illuminating the true spirit of the women on the home front, in a village of indomitable spirit, at the dawn of a most terrible conflict. 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir by Jennifer Ryan is one to love. I am always intrigued by stories about World War II. This one was just that…but much more. Jennifer Ryan brings to readers a story about the women on the home front. Women band together during these terrible and emotional times. Husbands and sons away fighting at war. Life is interrupted and everything opens up…the women are able to step in and do much more. A choir group is dismissed and all seems lost. But not yet. One determined woman goes out and reaches the ladies. They form a new choir…The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir. From there, I got to meet a bunch of interesting woman whose stories varied as did their personalities. A refreshing piece of literature. Bold, engaging, and intriguing. I was hooked. Secrets, a crime, and love are all wrapped in inside this stunning story. Overall, I recommend The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir to readers worldwide. 

Review: Book of Summer

Synopsis:

Physician Bess Codman has returned to her family’s Nantucket compound, Cliff House, for the first time in four years. Her great-grandparents built Cliff House almost a century before, but due to erosion, the once-grand home will soon fall into the sea. Though she’s purposefully avoided the island, Bess must now pack up the house and deal with her mother, a notorious town rabble-rouser, who refuses to leave.

The Book of Summer unravels the power and secrets of Cliff House as told through the voices of Ruby Packard, a bright-eyed and idealistic newlywed on the eve of WWII, the home’s definitive guestbook, and Bess herself. Bess’s grandmother always said it was a house of women, and by the very last day of the very last summer at Cliff House, Bess will understand the truth of her grandmother’s words in ways she never contemplated.
The bestselling author of The Paris Apartment and I’ll See You in Paris, Michelle Gable now transports readers to Nantucket.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Book of Summer by Michelle Gable is a beautiful tale. Memories that won’t ever fade. History and secrets are found as the main character, Bess Codman, goes to her mom. She must convince her mother to leave the house on the cliff. Her father persuades her to do so. When she reaches there, so many things come unraveling. Emotions spills across the pages. Michell Gable created a crazy, hilarious, yet engaging story of a family. Their lives may not be perfect but they care. 

The Book of Summer is centered around a house that has seen its days. Erosion is happening and it’s only time when it collapses. One woman determined to keep it standing and another to help get her out before it’s too late. I found the history colorful and interesting. My imagination went wild with all the what happened back then. Anything with a historical moment attached captured my undivided attention.  Michelle Gable has once again, brought another women’s fiction piece to my heart. I’ll ever forget the journey that trapped me inside…