Tuesday, October 7, 2025

Oct 7th Overdue A Novel by Stephanie Perkins

Book Excerpt:

"Ingrid Dahl, a cheerful twenty-nine-year-old librarian in the cozy mountain town of Ridgetop, North Carolina, has been happily dating her college boyfriend, Cory, for eleven years without ever discussing marriage. But when Ingrid's sister announces her engagement to a woman she's only been dating for two years, Ingrid and Cory feel pressured to consider their future. Neither has ever been with anybody else, so they make an unconventional decision. They'll take a one-month break to date other people, then they'll reunite and move toward marriage. Ingrid even has someone in mind: her charmingly grumpy coworker, Macon Nowakowski, on whom she's secretly crushed for years. But plans go awry, and when the month ends, Ingrid and Cory realize they're not ready to resume their relationship—and Ingrid's harmless crush on Macon has turned into something much more complicated.


Overdue is a beautiful, slow-burn romance full of lust and longing about new beginnings and finding your way."

Title:  Overdue 
Author:  Stephanie Perkins
Publisher:  St Martin's Press
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  Four
Review:
"Overdue" by Stephanie Perkins

My Insight:  

'Overdue' is a charming read, promising a romantic and humorous journey that may unfold at a leisurely pace. What will happen when Ingrid and her long-term boyfriend, Cory, finally discuss marriage? And how will things change when her sister gets engaged? With Ingrid and Cory deciding to date other people for a month, the story takes a humorous turn. And when Ingrid starts dating Macon, her coworker, the situation becomes even more entertaining. Stick with it to experience the enjoyable ending. Brace yourself for a 'slow-burn romance' as 'Overdue' finally arrives.

Thank you, NetGalley & St. Martin's Press, for the advanced ebook copy of this book.

Friday, October 3, 2025

Mind of Milya Kindle Edition by Bess Hendrick

Book Excerpt:

"When a woman chooses complete autonomy, what does that mean for the man who loves her?

Confident and adventuresome, Milya Hart plunges into life with arms open wide. Chris Nelson, drawn to Milya's unconventional style, happily accepts her preference for a relationship free of formal commitments.

When Milya takes a chef's position in Anchorage, everything changes. Chris, who stays behind in Olympia to run his new bookstore, needs the security of a more traditional arrangement. Milya won't even consider it, declaring that things are good the way they are.

As the couple struggles to find common ground, 
Mind of Milya opens a window into the family legacies and personal experiences that mold their beliefs about relationships—experiences that will either lead to new growth, or break them apart."


Title:  Mind of Milya 

Author:  Bess Hendrick

Publisher:  B.H.

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Mind of  Milya" by Bess Hendrick

My Insight:

The pages of *Mind of Milya* pulse with energy, compelling readers to dive right in and experience the journey. The characters are vibrantly crafted, each showcasing unique traits that make them both endearing and relatable. Bess Hendrick brilliantly weaves rich descriptions that highlight the delicate balance between love and independence, inviting readers into the heartfelt emotional journeys of the characters. The narrative strikes a deep chord, examining life choices and the complexities of human relationships that resonate strongly in our own lives.

If you're seeking an engaging and thought-provoking read, *Mind of Milya* excels on every level, leaving you with plenty to ponder long after you've turned the final page. It's a journey worth taking!




Wednesday, September 24, 2025

THE GARBAGE MAN by Tessa Pacelli


 Book Excerpt:

"What if your dream job became a nightmare without end?

Fresh out of Harvard Business School, Kayla Mousavi lands a coveted job at General Recycling, beating out thousands to work for Americaʼs hottest tech company and its legendary CEO, Frederick Douglass Monahan. It seems like a golden opportunity. GRʼs trash-eating bacteria gobble up refuse, rescuing a world choking on garbage. And her job, as the right-hand analyst of a global business celebrity, guarantees a glittering future. But Kayla should have remembered what her father, in prison for insider trading, always said. Inside every great company is a great crime.

It's not long before Kayla stumbles onto the kind of dirt that not even the magic GR bugs can disappear. Soon, she's witness to a professional hit — a hit meant for her — and on a collision course with the truth behind the trash: deep in the bowels of a Wall Street darling is an extraordinary and terrifying business that will reshape everything we believe about psychology, security, privacy, and human nature. Now, to live, Kayla will have to outsmart a ruthless genius with unlimited resources. A man who absolutely intends to change the world…just not exactly as advertised."

Title:  The Garbage Man

Author:  Tessa Pacelli

Publisher:  Tessa Pacelli Zero Day Books, LLC

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"The Garage Man" by Tessa Pacelli

My Insight:

"The Garbage Man" is a fascinating blend of suspense, thriller, and science that truly sparks curiosity! While you might need to stay alert to follow the twists and turns, the journey is enriching. Kayla Mousavi, our determined protagonist, brilliantly unravels the mysteries she encounters at General Recycling. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that promises to surprise and delight you by the end. You won't want to miss this captivating techno-thriller experience!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC and for my giving my honest opinion of the read.






Friday, September 5, 2025

Buzz Books 2025: Romance by Publishers Lunch


 Book Excerpt:

"Welcome to Buzz Books: Romance 2025! This edition of our longstanding, much-beloved Buzz Books series includes 18 excerpts from some of the buzziest upcoming romance titles of the year. Whether you are an avid romance reader or are curious about this fast-growing genre, this edition has something for everyone. At the end of most excerpts, you will find a link to download or request the full galley—exclusive to the NetGalley edition!


Discover compelling stories from acclaimed authors, including Alexandria Bellefleur, Kate Clayborn, Emily McIntire, Lauren Rowe, and Nikki St. Crowe, alongside exciting debuts from Taylor Esposito, Jessica M. Felleman, Jaclyn Rodriguez, and Edward Schmit.

This diverse collection spans young adult, new adult, and adult romance across multiple beloved subgenres and tropes: sports romance, contemporary romance, dark romance, romantasy, Greek mythology retellings, Western romance, enemies-to-lovers, second chance romance, and more.

New for this edition of Buzz Books Romance, we've not only given you a guide to the age category of the titles, but also a heat level. We hope this guides your reading choices.

Finally, if you love this edition, be sure to keep an eye out for our following publication, Buzz Books: Spring/Summer 2026."

Title:  Buzz Books 2025
Author:  Publishers Lunch
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Buzz Books 2025" by Publishers Lunch

My Insight:  

"Welcome to Buzz Books: Romance 2025! This edition of our beloved Buzz Books series includes 18 excerpts from some of the most anticipated upcoming romance titles of the year. Whether you are an avid romance reader or simply curious about this fast-growing genre, this edition has something for everyone. At the end of most excerpts, you will find a link to download or request the full galley, which is exclusive to this NetGalley edition! Discover compelling stories from acclaimed authors, including Alexandria Bellefleur, Kate Clayborn, Emily McIntire, Lauren Rowe, and Nikki St. Crowe, along with exciting debuts from Taylor Esposito, Jessica M. Felleman, Jaclyn Rodriguez, and Edward Schmit. This diverse collection spans young adult, new adult, and adult romance across multiple beloved subgenres and tropes: sports romance, contemporary romance, dark romance, romantasy, Greek mythology retellings, Western romance, enemies-to-lovers, second chance romance, and more. New for this edition of Buzz Books Romance, we've provided not only a guide to the age categories of the titles but also a heat level. We hope this assists you in making your reading choices. Finally, if you enjoy this edition, be sure to keep an eye out for our next publication, Buzz Books: Spring/Summer 2026."













Sunday, August 31, 2025

FIGHT FOR YOU: A Standalone Scottish BWWM Romance (MacKenzie Crime Family) Kindle Edition by Amarie Avant


 Book Excerpt:

"He promised to save me. Then he left me behind....

JORDYN

Jamie MacKenzie was my light in a childhood of captivity—until his clan ripped him away and left me in the dark.
Now, he's back. No longer a boy, but a battle-hardened ex-Marine, armed with vengeance and regrets.
He says he'll burn the world to the ground to free me—even if I fight him every step of the way. But I'm not just haunted by my past... I belong to a ruthless Bratva tsar who branded me as his. And he won't let me go without a war.

JAMIE

I failed Jordyn once. I'll never make that mistake again.
She doesn't trust me. Doesn't want saving.
But I'm done letting others hurt her.
I'll go to war with the Russian who owns her—or the family I was born into—if that's what it takes.
Clan MacKenzie doesn't forgive betrayal. And neither do I.
 
This fierce, emotionally charged BWWM romantic thriller is packed with heart, vengeance, and high-stakes redemption. While this story contains mature themes, including trafficking and the loss of a child, these elements are handled with care and sensitivity; reader discretion is advised. At its heart of the suspense is a story about finding light in the darkest places—and the fierce, unrelenting fight to reclaim hope, love, and freedom."


Title:  Fight For You
Author:  Amarie Avant
Publisher:  A. A.
Series:  MacKenzie Crime Family
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  Five
Review:
'FIGHT FOR YOU: A Standalone Scottish BWWM Romance (MacKenzie Crime Family), by Amarie Avant 

My Insight:

"Fight For You" offers a breathtaking love story set against the fascinating backdrop of the Scottish mob. The profound bond between Jamie and Jordyn radiates throughout their emotional journey, especially as Jamie fiercely fights to rescue Jordyn after her kidnapping. Their path to healing and personal growth unfolds with grace, delivering an uplifting message about the incredible power of love.

Get ready for a thrilling rollercoaster of emotions—suspense, romance, and drama come together with themes of betrayal and mistrust. The author skillfully spins a captivating tale centered around the mysterious MacKenzie Crime Family, perfectly immersing readers in a world where love stands strong against life's challenges. Prepare to be swept into an unforgettable adventure!

This is a review after listening to the audiobook.

JORDYN... Jamie MacKenzie was my beacon of hope during a bleak and oppressive childhood—my refuge amid the darkness of captivity. For years, he was my closest friend and ally—until his clan tore him away from me, leaving me alone in a nightmare. Now he has returned, transformed from the innocent boy I once knew into a battle-hardened ex-Marine, his spirit forged in the fires of conflict and carrying the weight of vengeance and regret. He swears he'll set the world ablaze to save me, even if I resist him at every turn. However, I'm not only grappling with memories of my past; I am also bound to a merciless Bratva tsar who sees me as his property. He won't release me without a fierce struggle that could ignite a war.

JAMIE... I failed Jordyn once, and I refuse to make that mistake again. Though she may not trust me and resists my attempts to save her, I am determined to shatter the chains that bind her. This time, I will fight with everything I have, standing against the ruthless Russian who claims her as his own—or against the clan I've always known if it comes to that. Clan MacKenzie does not forgive betrayal, and neither will I. This gripping, emotionally charged BWWM romantic thriller dives deep into themes of love, vengeance, and redemption. It's a story rich in intensity and heart, exploring the shadows of trafficking and the painful loss of a child with the utmost care and sensitivity; reader discretion is strongly advised. At its core, this narrative is a powerful journey about finding light in the most desolate places—a relentless battle to reclaim hope, love, and freedom against all odds.

The story is compelling, and it is also available as an audiobook. The narrators did an excellent job of bringing the events to life, keeping listeners engaged as they follow the journey of Jordyn and Jamie.

'Fight For You' was an excellent story that this author gives the reader that you will enjoy from start to the very end.

Sinful Submission: A Dark Why Choose Trilogy Kindle Edition by Stephanie Nicole Norris

Book Excerpt:

"Three men. One woman. When danger and desire collide.

They thrive on the thrill of the chase, unapologetic in their pursuit to consistently hit their mark—or get their woman. Businessmen by day, hitmen by night, these frat brothers live, work, and kill together. They're dangerous, raw, and too ruthless for their best friend's little sister, who should be off-limits to them, especially with an enemy who is constantly circulating in their orbit. They could get her killed if they aren't careful. Yet, one by one, they each get sucked deeper into her intoxicating web as the morally gray lines begin to blur and they realize that the only way to move forward is to succumb to their desires ... and share her.

Resort tycoon Titan Valentine is a merciless, beautiful monster in a tailored suit who dances the thin line between power and danger. Santari Lake mistook his quiet, commanding presence for survival, but she didn't realize she'd become the flame he aches to be consumed by. Every time he holds back, it's not mercy... It's foreplay. And when she finally offers her submission, he loses the hold on his control completely."

Title:  Sinful Submission

Author:  Stephanie Nicole Norris

Publisher:   Love Is A Drug Ink LLC

Series:  A Dark Why Choose Trilogy

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Sinful Submission" by Stephanie Nicole Norris

My Insight: 

'Sinful Submission: A Dark Why Choose Trilogy' is a complete and satisfying read, offering a window into the world of the Valentines, with a spotlight on Titan and Santari.   The story is presented in a way that will keep you turning the pages, with all your questions answered in this incredible narrative.  To fully appreciate the series, I recommend reading the entire trilogy.  

His Royal Enemy: Elite Alliance (The Royals of Kéra Asnela) Kindle Edition by Stephanie Nicole Norris


 Book Excerpt:

"The crown awaits Prince Remington Winthrope as he prepares to become King of Kéra Asnela. When assassination attempts threaten not only his life but the stability of his kingdom, he turns to the most unlikely royal: Princess Izara of Myriad, the daughter of his imprisoned enemies.

Brought to Winthrope Estate Palace as both informant and prisoner, Izara finds herself caught between loyalty to her homeland and an unexpected attraction to the man who holds her family captive.

Their verbal vitriol creates a hostile relationship, but proximity breeds a dangerous desire that threatens everything they've fought for."

Title: His Royal Enemy

Author:  Stephanie Nicole Norris

Publisher:    Love Is A Drug Ink LLC

Series:  The Royals of Kéra Asnela

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"His Royal Enemy: Elite Alliance" by Stephanie Nicole Norris

My Insight:  

'His Royal Enemy; Elite Alliance' was another excellent read from this author, offering readers some wonderful romance stories. In this series, we are given well-developed characters with a storyline that will keep readers turning the pages to the end, leaving them wanting even more. The storyline of Remington and Izara, who were enemies full of distrust, is so engaging that it will captivate you from the first page. You must pick up this good series to see how it will all turn out for them in the end.

Oct 7th Overdue A Novel by Stephanie Perkins

Book Excerpt: " Ingrid Dahl, a cheerful twenty-nine-year-old librarian in the cozy mountain town of Ridgetop, North Carolina, has been ...