When Devils Prey Paperback – October 20, 2025 by Debra Phillips

 Book Excerpt:

"When a smooth-talking thief and his razor-sharp-talking lover target a wealthy elder in a quiet neighborhood, the score goes sideways fast. Dare thought the job would be quick and easy: get in, get the loot, get out, get paid. Unfortunately, his target wasn't just another helpless old woman. Fierce, fearless, and fueled by fire, she fought back hard, shattering Dare's plans that left behind a trail of blood and distrust he never intended."

Title:  When Devels Prey

Author:  Debra Phillips

Publisher:  D. P.

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"When Devils Prey" by Debra Philips

My Review:  

'When Devils Prey' was a read that took you all over the place, from robbery to church to romance, and a few more antics that will keep you interested as you turn the pages to see what is coming next.  

I found the characters most interesting from Jhodare Rimsey [Dare], Keetora [Miss Kee], Lydia Prescott, Lynnosha Tisdale,  Roy, La Gia, Anasha, Chancy, Brother Samuel Sims, Rev. Jhodane Rimsey, Bozzman King, and Rita Maxwell. This is to name a few, as I have left some other important ones off this list. But this will keep you reading because there is so much going on in 'When Devils Prey.'

Starting with a robbery and moving on to being a minister because he was taking his brother's place [Rev Jhodane Rimsey's place], since he was leaving for Africa, and his twin Jhodare had moved to his brother's area and needed a job, guess what he did after being offered the pastor's job? Now, I will stop here, not wanting to give too much away. But after the robbery, the twin decided to move to his brother's area to find out he was leaving for Africa to do some missionary work there, and was told he could stay at his twin's place to keep an eye on his house while his twin was gone. Jhodare wanted to change his way of living and thought this would be a good move. However, there is a lot more coming for this twin Dare.

Then Dare meets the neighbor, Ms. Rita... then the church folks...Brother Samuel Sims, Lynnosha Tisdale, and the story picks up where you will say...I didn't see any of this coming.

As the new pastor arrives, Pastor Dare learns a lot about what has been going on at Devine Cross Baptist, especially with Brother Samuel Sims and his lady friends. Will that problem be solved?

Then we come into play with Lynnosha and what is going on with her in the fact that she has been keeping her niece and nephew, which has been a special problem because of what is going on in her own house, and she doesn't seem to have any control over it, especially with that niece, Gia. How will that problem be solved, especially since Gia and Chancy's mother was in prison and Lynn had promised her that she would keep them until her release?  This is where you will have to pick up 'When Devils Prey' to see how well this author brings it all out.  

Now we have many things going on... a robbery where someone dies, a girlfriend, but was she really a girlfriend? Dare wants to change his life, so he decides to move to another area where his twin brother lives. When his girlfriend [Miss Jee tells the ex-boyfriend after he finds her, that her supposedly boyfriend has moved. Now, there will be more about that because the ex-boyfriend lost something he had stolen from him during the robbery that he wanted back, and, by accident, he found out who was in on it.  You must read to find out that information. 

Ok, I will stop here and stay again. This was a story that kept going and gave the reader all kinds of information, so you will have to keep up.

You may wonder why Ms. Lynnosha was having so much trouble with that niece...Well, I will not tell you because I want you to read and see what Gia and Anasaha [her partner] did at a church meeting to get back at Lynn. What will happen when all this mess comes out about Ms. Lynn, the church treasurer?

As the story moves on, will Ms Kee's ex-boy finally meet up with the pastor to get back what was taken from the robbery that belongs to him? Again, you will have to read and see how this will all come out. It was a little funny, especially how this ex-boyfriend was caught... but again, you will have to read for yourself to see how the neighbor across the street from the twins helped and what pastor Dare did in appreciation of all Miss Rita had done.  Ha ha!

With all that had gone on with Ms Kee leaving with Dare's money, and now the pastor was interested in Ms Lynn, and due to what had happened to Ms Lynn at the church, well, it seems like Pastor Dare wanted his own church. Will that happen? Will these two get married, especially after Ms Lynn's first marriage didn't work out?   Well, you will have to see for yourself how well this story opens and closes. 

I wished there had been an epilogue because I would have liked to have known what truly happened to Ms Kee... how do you treat a fiancée like that? Yes, she was now engaged to Dare. For Ms Rita, would she be able to leave Dare alone after what they had done together? And Gia, and her lover... I don't care how mad you are that your aunt, who put you out of her house after all you were doing there was wrong, and yes, you found something she did was bad, but to do what they did to her at church in front of everyone... my, my...my! I felt karma was definitely coming for both of them in the end. After Dare's brother recovered from illness, he was well enough to come home from Africa. What does he think of his twin brother, Dare, who was now a pastor at his own church and was married? Oh well, these are just my thoughts... that I wish I could have gotten more information. Not that this story wasn't full of a little bit of it all, I was still left wondering about some of those people. 

'When Devils Prey' was a deep, good story that will have one thinking a lot after the read. This author did a superb job of giving us a clear picture of what goes on in life, especially in the days we live in now. Thank you for a good story. Keep up your work. You are indeed an excellent writer!

     

******  I have two reviews for 'When Devils Prey  Here is the second review.

'When Devils Prey' is a captivating read that takes you on a journey through robbery, church, romance, and various other things. 'When Devils Prey' was a read that took you all over the place, from theft to church to romance, and a few more antics that will keep you interested as you turn the pages to see what is coming next. Other engaging plots that keep you turning the pages to find out what happens next.

The characters are intriguing, including Jhodare Rimsey (Dare), Keetora (Miss Kee), Lydia Prescott, Lynnosha Tisdale, Roy, La Gia, Anasha, Chancy, Brother Samuel Sims, Rev. Jhodane Rimsey, Bozzman King, and Rita Maxwell, to name just a few. There are many more important characters in the story, each contributing to the twists and turns that make 'When Devils Prey' so compelling. The story begins with a robbery, which sets off a chain of events that leads Jhodare to take on his brother's role as minister while his twin, Rev. Jhodane Rimsey, leaves for Africa on a missionary trip. Moving to his brother's area, Jhodare sees this as an opportunity to change his lifestyle. However, his journey doesn't go as smoothly as planned. After the robbery, he meets his neighbor, Ms. Rita, and becomes involved with the local church community, including Brother Samuel Sims and Lynnosha Tisdale. The plot thickens as Jhodare uncovers various secrets within the church that take him by surprise. We also delve into Lynnosha's challenges as she looks after her niece and nephew, particularly dealing with Gia's rebellious behavior. How Lynnosha manages her home creates significant tension in the narrative, and you'll want to read more to see how these issues unfold, especially when she gets help from Pastor Dare. The story keeps delivering surprises as it explores the aftermath of the robbery, including a death and relationships that are more complicated than they seem. Dare, trying to improve his life, finds himself in a precarious situation when his supposed girlfriend informs her ex-boyfriend about his location. The ex-boyfriend is determined to retrieve something important that went missing during the robbery, leading to unexpected confrontations. There are issues involving Ms. Lynnosha, the church treasurer, that complicate the plot. You'll have to read to discover what happens when the tensions erupt, especially regarding Ms. Lynn and her questionable behavior with church funds. As the story progresses, it raises questions about whether Ms. Kee's ex will confront the pastor about the stolen goods and how the pastor will respond, particularly given the comedic twists in their interactions.

Furthermore, with Ms. Kee's departure and the pastor's interest in Ms. Lynn, you'll wonder whether Dare's aspirations to found his own church will come to fruition and whether he and Ms. Lynn will end up marrying after her previous marriage fell apart. The narrative leaves you craving an epilogue to understand the fates of various characters, especially Ms. Kee and her complicated relationship with Dare, not to mention the fallout from Gia's actions that she and her girlfriend took against her aunt at the church. Then my last question would be what did Dare's brother think of his twin now being a pastor of his own church and married.

In conclusion, 'When Devils Prey' is a thought-provoking story that captures the complexities of life. The author does an excellent job of weaving these narratives together, leaving readers with much to ponder after finishing the book. Thank you for such a compelling story, and I look forward to your future work!

Eleanor & Grey by Brittainy Cherry

 Book Excerpt:

"An unforgettable second-chance romance about healing, family, and the enduring power of first love. This edition includes designed edges and an exclusive, never-before-published bonus chapter.

Eleanor never thought she'd see Greyson East again. As a teenager, he was everything—her first crush, her closest friend, the boy who made her believe in forever. But life had other plans, and when tragedy struck, they were torn apart. Years later, Eleanor takes a nannying job hoping to rebuild her life, only to discover her new boss is Greyson—the boy she once knew, now a man haunted by loss.

Greyson warns Eleanor to keep her distance and focus solely on her job, but she has never backed down from a challenge. As Eleanor spends time with Greyson and his two daughters, she catches glimpses of the boy she once adored beneath his cold exterior—the one who made her feel seen when no one else did.

With each passing day, Eleanor chips away at the walls Greyson has built, uncovering the pain he's tried so hard to bury. But letting her in means facing the ghosts of his past, and the possibility of losing her all over again. For Eleanor, walking away would be the safer choice, but her heart refuses to give up on the man who once made her believe in love. Because sometimes, the most brutal battles are the ones worth fighting—and Eleanor is determined to show Greyson that even the deepest scars can heal when love is given a second chance."

Title:  Eleanor & Grey

Author:  Brittainy Cherry

Publisher:  LYX

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Eleanor & Grey" by Brittainy Cherry

My Insight:

"Eleanor and Grey" presents an enchanting narrative that delves into the profound themes of family, second chances, love, and friendship. The chemistry between the characters pulls readers in, compelling them to turn the pages eagerly, anxious to uncover the twists and turns of Eleanor and Greyson's journey. By the story’s poignant conclusion, the narrative beautifully reveals how their struggles forge not only personal growth but also a deeper connection between them. This tale is a powerful testament to the enduring strength of love and resilience, offering a richly rewarding experience that captivates anyone fortunate enough to immerse themselves in it.

*Thank you to the Publisher, Brittainy Cherry, and Netgalley for providing me with an E-ARC of "Eleanor & Grey" in exchange for a review.*

I'M FINE!: A Practical Guide To Managing Your Emotions To Strengthen Relationships With Loved Ones And Yourself Kindle Edition by Rob Nugen

 Book Excerpt:

" Stop Saying 'I’m Fine!” Learn to Feel, Speak, and Live with Strength and Heart

Most men were never taught how to handle emotions, only how to hide them.
Stuffing it down doesn’t make the emotions go away. Whether anger, sadness, or shame, it just buries them deeper while relationships suffer, motivation disappears, and life feels hollow.

In I’M FINE!, connection coach Rob Nugen offers a compassionate, no-BS roadmap for men who are tired of surviving and ready to start truly living.

With relatable stories, grounded guidance, and zero judgment, Nugen teaches men how to listen to their emotions as useful signals, not weaknesses. This isn’t about therapy-speak or “fixing yourself.” It’s about reclaiming the full range of who you are so you can lead your life with clarity, courage, and connection.

💡 Inside, you’ll discover:

• Simple, actionable tools to understand and process emotions in real time
• A shame-free path from emotional numbness to authentic self-expression
• Real-world insights from a man who’s walked the same road
• How to create deeper intimacy and trust in your closest relationships
• A practical approach that fits into real life. No fluff, no jargon

Whether you’ve felt disconnected, pressured to “man up,” or unsure how to open up, this book meets you where you are and walks with you toward where you want to be.

"I wish Rob’s book had existed thirty or forty years ago. I can’t help thinking that my life would have been different if I had been aware of the wisdom he’s passing along."

If you’re ready to stop pretending you’re fine — and start showing up as the man you truly are — this book is for you."

👉 Grab your copy now and take the first step toward real emotional strength.

Title:  I'm Fine

Author:  Rob Nugen

Publisher: R.N.

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:
"I'm Fine" by Rob Nugen

My Review:

When I started reading the novel "I'm Fine," I initially thought it was meant for my husband. However, the author skillfully addresses all readers, including women. The book serves as "A Practical Guide to Managing Your Emotions to Strengthen Relationships with Loved Ones and Yourself." I gained a lot from this read, and I plan to encourage my husband of 55 years to read it as well. I only wish he had discovered it much earlier. I particularly enjoyed the section where the author teaches men to listen to their emotions as valuable signals rather than weaknesses. It's not just about self-improvement; it's about embracing the full spectrum of who you are, which can lead to a life filled with clarity, courage, and connection. Although the book is relatively short, it offers a wealth of insights. I appreciated the author's message: "Whether you’ve felt disconnected, pressured to 'man up,' or unsure how to open up, this book meets you where you are and walks with you toward where you want to be." I'm glad I picked this book up, even if it wasn't meant for me at the time. I will ensure it gets into the right hands soon. "I'm Fine" is a great read, and I hope the right man will discover it soon. I believe you will enjoy it!

Daycare Santa: A Sweet & Wholesome Holiday Romance (Wintertime Holiday Connection Book 1) Kindle Edition 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 the clock strikes 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.

Perfect for fans of cozy holiday reads, Daycare Santa is a touching reminder that miracles happen when we dare to ask for help."

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!

Daycare Dad: A Sweet & Wholesome Holiday Romance (Wintertime Holiday Connection Book 2) Kindle Edition by J.L. Campbell

 Book Excerpt:

"With Christmas weeks away, Lizette will need a lifeboat to save her dream if she doesn't get help in time.

When Lizette Winters' twin brothers beg her to hire their friend at her daycare, she reluctantly agrees. The only catch is that Shomari Marsh's life is in disarray. On the plus side, his offer to prepare a proposal she urgently needs to expand her facility is a blessing she didn't see coming. What Lizette does see, no matter how hard she tries to look away, is the spark of something magical between them.

Reeling from a painful loss and desperate to rebuild after losing everything, Shomari is focused on being the steady, loving father his little girl deserves. But when he changes his mind and finally believes he might be worthy of a woman as extraordinary as Lizette, a heartbreaking revelation unravels everything.

As holiday lights glow and second chances beckon, can Shomari trust in the love that's taken him by surprise, or let the shadows of the past keep him from embracing the future they can have together?

Perfect for fans of sweet romance and heartwarming holiday reads, Daycare Dad shows how life changes when we find the courage to move beyond heartache and love again."

Title:  Daycare Dad

Author:  J.L. Campbell

Publisher:  The Writers' Suite

Series:  Wintertime Holiday Connection Book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Daycare Dad" by J.L. Campbell

My Review:

"Daycare Dad" is a charming holiday romance that wonderfully captures the magic of second chances as love blossoms for Lizette Winters and Shomari Marsh. Lizette's twin brother adds a delightful twist, enriching the storyline. It's genuinely uplifting to witness Lizette and Shomari's journey unfold together. Without spoiling the fun, readers will be captivated by this heartfelt love story. It was a pleasure to follow their path, and the way everything comes together in the end is simply delightful! Get ready for a warm and joyful reading experience!

Finding Christmas (A Winterberry Hollow Christmas Book 1) Kindle Edition by Cindy Nichols

 Book Excerpt:

"Single dad Ben Carter has one rule. No more heartbreak.

After losing his wife, he's spent years holding onto tradition, raising his seven-year-old daughter Sophie, and keeping the outside world at a safe distance. But when big-city journalist Charlie Wells arrives in Winterberry Hollow, digging for a story about the town's beloved Christmas festival, she threatens to upend the careful life he's built.

Charlie doesn't believe in holiday magic—she believes in facts. And the truth is, places like Winterberry Hollow are too perfect to be real. But as she spends time in the snow-covered streets, the twinkling lights, and in the orbit of one charmingly stubborn single dad and his matchmaking daughter, she begins to question everything she thought she knew.

The problem? The story she came to write could destroy the town—and the man—she's falling for.

With Christmas fast approaching, Ben and Charlie find themselves at a crossroads: protect their hearts, or risk everything for the kind of love neither of them expected?

A heartwarming small-town Christmas romance about second chances, found family, and believing in magic again."

Title:  Finding Christmas

Author:  Cindy Nichols

Publisher:  C. N.

Series: Book 1 A Winterberry Hollow Christmas

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Finding Christmas' by Cindy Nichols

My Insight:  

"Finding Christmas" is a remarkable read that captures the enchanting spirit of the season. Sophie, a young girl with a heart full of hope, along with her supportive community, embarks on a quest to rediscover the magic of Christmas. Enter Charlie, a tenacious journalist, who arrives in Winterberry Hollow to investigate the town's beloved Christmas festival. The unfolding relationship between her and Ben, the devoted single dad, is nothing short of captivating. Prepare to be swept away by a delightful holiday romance set in a picturesque town brimming with quirky characters. As Charlie navigates the delicate balance between her journalistic pursuits and the allure of belonging, she begins to uncover the true essence of Christmas—the joy, love, and connection that have been so dearly lost in her own life. This heartwarming tale beautifully illustrates how a father and daughter, grappling with the profound loss of their wife and mother, can find solace and healing in each other and their community. With each turn of the page, you'll be drawn deeper into their journey, eagerly anticipating what lies ahead. "Finding Christmas" is a poignant holiday read that will leave you enchanted and yearning for the next chapter in the "A Winterberry Hollow Christmas" series.

Hidden Enemy (Evanescence Book 5) Kindle Edition by J.L. Campbell

Book Excerpt:

"Mia's gift is memory. Maxine's curse is prophecy. 

Their uncommon abilities make them a force to be feared … and controlled. For these twins, The Castle has always been a sanctuary—a place where they are nurtured and protected,  until their mother is murdered.

Escaping to the distant land of Durabia, they find fleeting peace—but their enemies have not forgotten them. On their return to the States, the past and the future collide in a deadly reckoning. Shadowy forces infiltrate The Castle, and the sisters are kidnapped by those who would use their powers to reshape destiny, no matter the cost.   

Together, they carry the weight of all that ever was and all that will ever be.

 

The Castle's origin story starts with a spiritual battle that transcends time and space, ending with a war on two sides of the world and beyond."

Title:  Hidden Enemy

Author:  J.L. Campbell

Publisher:  The Writer's Suite

Series:  Evanescence Book 5

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Hidden Enemy" by J.L. Campbell

My Insight:

Mia possesses an extraordinary gift: her memory is a vivid tapestry woven with intricate details, allowing her to recall moments with breathtaking clarity. In contrast, Maxine grapples with the haunting burden of prophecy, her visions often casting shadows on their future. Together, these twins form an unparalleled alliance, a dynamic force that demands careful stewardship. For as long as they can remember, The Castle has been their sanctuary—a majestic refuge filled with warmth and familiarity—until the shattering loss of their mother sends ripples of grief through their lives, altering everything they once knew.

In search of solace, the sisters embark on a journey to the distant land of Durabia, where the sun-drenched landscapes and gentle breezes offer a temporary balm for their aching hearts. However, the tendrils of their past are relentless, and peace proves elusive. Upon their return to the United States, they find themselves at a treacherous crossroads, where the wounds of history collide with an uncertain future, leading to a gripping confrontation. Dark forces, sinister and relentless, infiltrate The Castle, and the sisters are ensnared by those seeking to exploit their remarkable gifts, willing to manipulate fate at any cost.

Bound together by the weight of their heritage and the shimmering promise of what is yet to come, Mia and Maxine must summon every ounce of strength. Their tale unfolds within the backdrop of a profound spiritual battle that transcends time and geography, paving the way for an epic conflict that reverberates across continents and beyond. Join them on their arduous journey as they navigate daunting challenges with unwavering courage and indomitable determination!