Daycare Santa, By J.L. Campbell

Book Excerpt:

"The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but Regina Wright's world is unraveling.

A split with her business partner just as the festive rush begins leaves her drowning in the pressures of keeping her business afloat.

Her six-year-old son, Luca, takes matters into his own hands by writing an outrageous letter to Santa. His extraordinary wish puts Gina on Santa's radar.

Regina can't avoid Zack Winters, the stand-in St. Nick, who turns up in the most unlikely places as the holiday draws nearer. As she juggles business and parenthood, he throws out a challenge.

Can she enjoy the season and accept the help she needs to rescue her business before midnight on Christmas Eve?

Join Gina and Zack on a heartwarming journey filled with laughter, love, and the belief that sometimes, the best gifts come in unexpected packages."

Title: Daycare Santa
Author: J. L. Campbell
Publisher: The Writers' Suite (December 6, 2024)
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
'Daycare Santa' by J. L. Campbell

My Perception:

"Daycare Santa" is not just a heartwarming holiday romance; it's a celebration of love, resilience, and the surprising ways life can bring us joy. This enchanting story focuses on Regina Wright, a widow and single mother who navigates the challenges of parenting her six-year-old son, Luca while trying to keep her business afloat amidst the holiday chaos.

Regina's journey of self-discovery begins as she deals with the fallout of a relationship tinged with deception, thanks to her astute friend Nichelle, who helps her see the truth about Boyd. Meanwhile, Isaac "Zack" Winters has his wounds to heal after facing betrayal, leading him to become a stand-in Santa at Wintertime Daycare, where he connects with children and brightens their holidays.

When Regina and Luca cross paths with Zack, a spark ignites. Yet, Regina's guarded heart hesitates to open up to a new connection. This story beautifully captures her struggle to embrace vulnerability while maintaining her independence. As she navigates her feelings and learns to accept help, the warmth of the holiday spirit envelops her in the most unexpected ways.

"Daycare Santa" is a must-read for anyone yearning for a delightful Christmas love story that encapsulates the magic of second chances, the strength of friendship, and the joy of community. This book will inspire you to believe that the most precious gifts often come when we least expect them. Don't miss the chance to dive into this uplifting tale—it's the perfect addition to your holiday reading list!

The Breakdown, by Robert W. Kirby

 Book Excerpt:  

"Beth thought she could escape her demons in the wilderness. She was wrong."

Title: The Breakdown
Author: Robert W. Kirby
Publisher: Flock Publishing
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"The Breakdown" by Robert W. Kirby

My Perception:

"The Breakdown" is a psychological thriller that will keep you turning the pages to discover what happens next to the characters on their hiking trip to Montana. The novel's title aptly reflects the story, as a secret is revealed that may change lawyer Beth Gunning's life forever. What begins as an enjoyable trip quickly turns into a nightmare for this group of hikers.

Prepare for numerous twists and turns, including murder, a faulty GPS system, sibling rivalries, and hikers getting lost. This captivating story will make you think twice about going hiking!

Thank you to the author for quite an exciting read.

Her Vow (The Enigma Series) Kindle Edition by Aja

 Book Excerpt:

"Sarai never had it easy, but everything changed when she met Malachi Montgomery, the love of her life. With him, she finally felt at peace, like she belonged. She could be more than just a gangster's daughter. To Malachi, she was his Goddess, his everything.

But Malachi came with his own baggage—a mom who saw Sarai as a roadblock to her son's future.

Will family drama tear them apart before they can start their lives together, or will their love win out?"

Title:  Her Vow

Author:  Aja

Publisher:  She Loves Words Publishing LLC (July 27, 2024)

Series:  The Enigma Series

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Her Vow" by Aja

My Perception:  

'Her Vow' is a good story about Sarai finally getting her true love with Malachi. Yes, Sarai was tested by being abandoned by her mother and now by Malachi's mom, who presented problems. However, she was able to handle that situation with the help of her therapist through counseling. 

By the end, we see Sarai finally learning to love herself, her family, and Malachi.  

This author did a fantastic job presenting the reader with a good read.

Water Finds a Way a novel Kindle Edition by Meghan Perry

 Book Excerpt:

"Can coming home bring redemption? Or at least a measure of peace? Recently released from prison, Blake Alvares returns to the only place she ever felt safe, the now derelict Maine town in which she harbored as a teen. Determined to conceal her secrets and losses, she soon finds herself dragged into others' lives when she takes a job on a boat owned by a notorious young lobsterman.

Leland Savard is nearly broke, trying to support himself and 9-year-old Quinnie as he wrestles with a dangerous family legacy. Though his choice to hire Blake raises local eyebrows, Leland and those around Blake are quickly surprised and jarred by how much they come to rely on her. At the same time, Blake stumbles into love from unexpected places. When Leland's rash actions place her and Quinnie in peril, Blake feels forced to run again–only to discover the past is never more than a few steps behind her. On her quest for home, Blake must confront a daunting question: where does she belong?"

This is a book for readers who enjoy the believable eccentricity a small town offers. And for those who believe in the redemption of the sea and hard work."

Title:  Water Finds a Way

Author:  Meghan Perry

Publisher:  Delphinium Books (November 12, 2024)

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Water Finds A Way" by Meghan Perry

My Perception:  

'Water Finds a Way' was an intriguing read with some well-developed characters that came alive as you read up to this suspenseful ending. Be ready for a read of the sadness and joy that comes from this complex story that was set in Maine. Will this main character [Blake Alvares]be able to return to the life she once had after being released from prison? This is where you will have to pick up this good read to see how it all comes out.  

By the end, we are given a 'masterful story of redemption and love' that will give one plenty to ponder over long after the read.  

Shine, by Aja

 Book Excerpt:

A prelude story...

A prelude story...

"In the heart of 1980s Pittsburgh, as the crack cocaine epidemic ravages the streets, Michael "Shine" Ferrell is a rising player in the city's cutthroat underworld. Hungry for more power, he sets his sights on expanding his empire—only to clash with a ruthless rival who controls the city's darkest corners. But it's not just the streets that threaten to swallow him whole. A betrayal at home shakes the foundation of the little he holds dear, forcing Shine to navigate deadly alliances and personal ruin as the epidemic spreads like wildfire."

*Does NOT need to be read in order, though reading Smoke, Maestro, and Slick will make for a better reading experience.*

Everyone has a past in the suspense-filled world of The Enigma Series characters. These are their stories.

Title:  Shine

Author:  Aja

Publisher:  She Loves Words Publishing (November 1, 2024)

Series:  The Enigma Series

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Shine" by Aja

My Perception:

"Shine" was indeed a good story about Michael [Mike] 'Shine' Ferrel's life in Pittsburgh. Being brought up by his mom and having no father around, Mike's life was quite interesting regarding what he went through from birth, friendships, business, loved ones, and so much more. But the biggest thing in his life was making "money."  After meeting the love of his life[Tamia], will money destroy the love he had endured so much from her? To find out how this author brings it out so well to the readers, you must pick up 'Shine' to see how this beautiful story will end. 

JOY AND PAIN Kindle Edition by Chicki Brown

 Book Excerpt:

"Braxton Nash is the type of man Khari Phillips has always dreamed of. He is kind, motivated, handsome, and sexy. After dating for only a few months, she feels the big question is coming soon. Only Brax has a secret. When she finds out, will it matter?

After years of random dating and one serious relationship, Brax is ready to give everything he has-spirit, soul, and body-to one woman. Khari embodies everything he wants and needs. But is he willing to give up the one thing standing in the way?"

Title:  Joy and Pain

Author:  Chicki Brown

Publisher:  C.B. October 4, 2024

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Joy and Pain" by Chick Brown

My Perception:  

'Joy and Pain' was quite an intriguing read. It dealt mainly with Khari and Braxton, an interracial couple. Nothing was too surprising about these two. It was great to see that they truly loved each other even after Khari discovered Brax's secret. Some secondary characters were also interesting, such as Brax's best friend Cam and Khari and Brax's nanny. It was beautiful what they did to help Quay, the nanny. Then, Khari's best friend, Maya, was there for Khari. Also, I want to include Brax's mother, who was now, well, I will leave it there and say you must pick up this good read to see what happened between them.  

This was another excellent book by this author. If you are looking for a good romantic, multicultural, interracial read, you have come to the right place.  

Dem Folk At Holy Rock (My Son's Wife Book 10) Kindle Edition by Shelia E. Bell

 Book Excerpt:

"Hezekiah McCoy is a free man in more ways than one. He's roaming around seeking a place to establish "New Holy Rock Ministries" and finds himself a first lady to go along with it. Fancy McCoy is determined to live her best life after being duped by a man who was sent by her ex-husband to humiliate her. Dem McCoy Boys are still making their marks and leaving some unforgettable legacies (not necessarily all good ones). Stiles's visits to Holy Rock are growing more frequent. Is it because of his new position or the new lady in his life?"

Title: Dem Folk At Holy Rock
Author: Shelia E. Bell
Publisher: S.E.B. (July 20, 2020)
Series: My Son's Wife Book 10
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Dem Folk At Holy Rock" by Shelia E. Bell

My Perception:
Be ready for many twists, turns, and drama in this series 10, 'Dem Folk At Holy Rock.' We find Hezekiah starting a new church, Holy Rock Ministries, and wanting to employ his brother Stiles as co-pastoring with him, and he seems to be looking for a new first lady. Pepper marries Xaviar, knowing that he is gay but thinking she could change him. Then there was Ian, who seemed to be there for Xaviar. Let's not leave out Fancy and her new guy, and we find that the story continues on and on, keeping the reader turning the pages to see what was coming next. And all that was left to stay was a horrible wedding, especially in how it ended with Khalil and Eiana. I am not sure who I felt more sorrier for... Pepper, Victoria, and Eliana, to name a few.

By the end of this series, we can see that Holy Rock has so many secrets, deceits, and betrayals that you will shake your head and say, "Wow," at the outrageousness of it all.