LOVE AND LIBERTY

Author:  Lee-Ann Graff-Vinson
Published By:   Gypsy Shadow Publishing
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For:  Great Minds Think Aloud
Review:

"Love and Liberty" by Lee-ann Graff-Vinson was a military intriguing short  romantic novel.  This story took place in the Middle East (Iraq) where veterans were to be "protectors of the civilians and be on watch for enemy attacks."

The story was of  a male captain and a female captain were able to work together, however, unknown to the troops these two people had fallen  in love and behind closed doors...well I can say here is get this read and you will see what went on behind those closed doors....even thought they did not share their true feelings to each other because their  first priority was to the military.  Everything was going well until Captain Dana Jenkins have been ambushed with many soldierswere taken hostage by these horrible killers  and then Captain Jack Parson has to do all to rescue her and other solders that had
been taken hostage.  How the author was able to deliver this wonderful   story out to its readers... where love and liberty...fighting  for their country, love was found and lost and then found again.  Definitely this  author takes us on a ride to let us  see the many challenges..life, death, love, liberty, conspirarcy and freedom  that the veterans had to  face  every single day while protecting its citizens and countries. 

In "Love and Liberty"  we able to  see  a romance and conspirarcy that surrounded these two veterans  life....now to get the whole story please pick up this novel to find out how this all turns out. If you are in for a very intriging, scary, excitable  and  romantic read.... "Love and Liberty" is a excellent read  that I would recommend to you.

THE UNSACRED GIFT

Author:  C. S. Dorsey
Published by:   Createspace 
Age Recommend:  YA
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"The Unsacred Gift" by C. S. Dorsey would quite a page turner... keeping you interested in this  quick  read...just  wanting to know what was going to happen next.  Was this a curse or a gift that this young girl was able to see the death of anyone that she touched?  This poor little Sissy had to deal with this situation all doing her young  school years until she was able to leave home. Sissy was lead through a horrible life even during her college years in that she would often isolate herself from people due to the visions.

Upon returning home after several  years for her grandmother's birthday...Sissy is able to find out more about herself and it seems for a short time that she was able to handles things  better, however things change quickly when Sissy  finds out that her mother has had a finace for a year,  her grandmother had secrets too  and then the nightmares that seem to be real have now started  up again. All of the characters were well liked...maybe not the twins....but Sissy is very smart determined and committed to her family.  Sissy's  Ma and grandmother were very nice and likeable showing that good old southern feeling and the rest of the characters were very fascinating group of people...especially those twins.  The plot was very well written and the  story flowed very well.  Quesions would be asked and answered...like  just  what was up with Sissy and Chris?  

"The Unsacred Gift" may  will leave you wondering at some part  of this novel ....asking what?? When you think you have it all figured out... don't be surpised if you don't! But,  if you can just stick in there to almost the end this author really has a big surpise for YOU (the reader)  and  you will be left saying OMG! Who knew that this exepected trip home would come to such a ending.  This novel is one that will have you thinking long after you have finished this good read.  I would definitely not only recommend to YA but to anyone who would be interested in good reading  that has a  fantastic ending.             

 

Ashen Winter

Author:   Mike Mullin
Published by:  Entangled Publishing
Age Recommend:  16
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  4
Blog Review For: GMTA

Review:


"Ashen Winter" by Mike Mullin a second in a series..... was a very good read.  If you are into action, terror and death then you are right in it from page one.  This hero (Alex)definitely a superhero that went through hell and back!....  and heroine (Darla) were a real team that loved each other (who weren't married.....then they are separated(not by choice)....and will they find each other before it is too late? Now, to truly understand this you will have to pick up the wonderful long read to find out how Mr. Mullin's brings this presentation out to the reader. This novel was a rollercoaster ride. The story is of Alex trying to find his parents after the eruption of a supervalcano...and things go "horribly wrong and Alex goes is now in a fight for his life  and the lives of others.  This story with its' many  plots take off...full of so much detail...packed with a lots of bloody and horrible  events. Be ready for  "Cannibalism, rape, imprisonment, serious injury, frostbite, illness and even death." WoW!  I know this is supposed to be for the YA but ....OK...... for there will be even  some romancing.  Be prepared for a lots of twist and turns...that will display the wrost in some  people.  This is definitely a read to check out.

The  characters in "Ashen Winter" were really very intringing ..... Alex, Darla, Alyssia, Ben, Janicef(mom),  Uncle Paul, Aunt Carolina, Chad, Wolfe, Mayor Kindra, Rita Mae, Dr. Carthy, Floyd and many others that made this such a interesting  readable read. 

Until the ending of "Ashen Winter" be ready for a surprise....that will definitely keep you are in edge of your seat and will have you wanting the next novel by this author.  If you are  fans of  Ashfall.... you will not want to miss reading "Ashen Winter" and I would recommend this as a good read. 

SUPER HERO PRINCESS and the Curse of the Rainbow Fairy

Author:  Natasha Rae House
Published by: CreateSpace
Age Recommend:  Children's Book
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5


Review:

"Super Hero Princess and the Curse of the Rainbow Fairy," by Natasha Rae House was a truly wonderful children novel.  This author was able to make the reader be right on the page with all the packed action that" was going on at that particular time.  The description( colors) of all of the animals and even some of the people  were simply explained  beautiful.  Miss Zara was a little princess that was cursed with super powers fighting off..."zombie carrots, evil mermaids and dragons with attitudes....due to  The Rainbow Fairy had  cursed the princess with the ability of strength, flight, random powers and of attracting all sorts of fuzzy creatures."    Now why and when  did this happens?   How did the  Zeuth Ring come into play?  I will leave it up to you to read this well written novel to find out.  It was be a good read that will be very entertaining for the young ones.


The characters were simply off the chart....funny, funny and funny!  I never laughed so hard in my life while reading this during the evening. OK,  let's go over a few of those characters  ha ha!... Zara, zombies, carrots, mom(Queen Alice) and dad(King Ben), dog butt, monsters, Bolten Lake, Annabelle, Mrs. Fields, Mr. Tellins, Gunner, Mr. Din-Don, Daniel, Mrs. Mints, baby robot, unicorns, Nadi, pooky bear, monkey, Astromeno, pony, Dez, Benjamin, Lady Swatson, Frank, Stehlon, lizard, Cupcake, mouse, Grasshopper, Hopps, Mr. Spider, Mr. Joe, seagull, Melanie, Cassandra, Prince Jacob, Mrs. Kendal, Chelsea, octo-monster, Anita, Prince Elbert, Brent, Gretchen, Zach, Jello boy, ninja cat, maiden, Miss Osis, mermaids, Mrs. Gamesberry, Zeuth Ring, Rainbow Fairy, frog, Grandma, fairy girls, RBF and I am sure that I have left some out.... so you will just have to pick up this wonderful well written "Super Hero Princess and the Curse of the Rainbow Fairy" to find out just who they are and if I missed anyone!  The cast was simply well played.  I could see this novel as a real cute movie for the little ones because from the reading you could really see all of the colors that would come forth.


If you are into fairies, zombies, monsters....all in good fun..this read: "Super Hero Princess and the Curse of the Rainbow Fairy" would be a wonderful fun  read for your children...for they will be well entertained....  I even  enjoyed it as a adult so.... I would definitely recommend this novel as a wonderful read for the little ones. 

True Connections

Author:  Clarissa Yip
Published by:   Entangled Publishing
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For: GMTA


Review:

"True Connections" by Clarissa Yip was a wonderful romance novel that was very developed and presented.  This novel was bottled up in being funny, sexy, and so emotional.  "True Connections" was truly a novel that I could not put down until the end. It was very interesting to see  Max finds himself in the line of fire when the families conspire to scheme to find him a suitable match, but wasn't  their a  real connection  between Max and Lia? 

To see how two people had supposedly hated each other as children...but were they really hiding their feelings for one another and now having to work together to please their grandma's?  This novel was a very HOT and steamy one!  The relationship between Max Sheraton and Lisa McEvers was one love-hate relationship....that finally ended up....well I will stop here and just let you read "Tue Connections" to find out just how this all turns out.  It will be interesting read!  I also liked how the author was to bring it all together with the characters... such as the very interesting grandma's.  These two ladies were really amusing and really brought a lot into this story with their matchmaking.
 
If you are in for a good quick short  romance novel .... I would recommend "True Connections" for you. 

Literary Agents, Beware, An Intense Romantic Thriller

Author:  Johnny Ray                           
Published By:   Sir John Publishing 
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For:  Great Minds Think Aloud

Review:

" Literary Agents, Beware, An Intense Romantic Thriller" by Johnny Ray was a good thriller  read for me.  I really enjoyed this fast paced  novel.  I was definitely on edge of my seat turning the pages until the end.  Johnny Ray is able to really bring out just what we need in a good romantic thriller.   There was a lots of  mystery.....who was doing what?.... who done it?....you will be kept wondering up until the very  end of this read.

The story is of a person having  this disease... bi-polarism.  The characters were simply well played  and just seeing how Amy's mind worked was really very nteresting to me. There was a serial killer going after literary agents....Amy meet a agent and becomes infuriated ...then receives a rejection letter from this agent ....and the story takes off...Amy is upset and being a unstable person that she is........she seeks revenge....but at the same time.....several agents  have died  violent deaths..and now with even more twist and turns and just what will happen next?  NOW, this is the time I say to you that you will have to pick up  "Literary Agents, Beware, An Intense Romantic Thriller" to find out!  It has been said: "...hell hath no fury like a woman (or aspiring author) scorned?"


I really did enjoy "Literary Agents, Beware, An Intense Romantic Thriller" and I didn't guess the ending.  I was able to learn a little on the research of bi-polar disorder...that laid a well laid foundation of this  storyline.  If you are in for a good thriller romance about bi-polarism... then  I would recommend "Literary Agents, Beware, An Intense Romantic Thriller" for you. 

Surrender to the Roman

Author:  M. K. Chester
Published by:  Carina  Press
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:



"Surrender to the Roman" by M.K. Chester was a wonderful, sweet  historical romance between a slave and a Roman solder that was a well written for the readers.

The story was of a princess that was turned slave....with a respectable General.... and (a brother in law-Tertullian) a second in command who was a sociopath.  The author did wonderful work with the characters making them very believable.  The hero was definitely Marcus...who was Roman General of the army and now caring for the princess.... Ademeni. This hero had strength, loyal and much compassion.   The heroine (Ademeni) showed great strength never letting go she was of royalty....for she was full of only testing Marcus and 'shaking him out of his complacency.'....definitely this heroine was the mate for him!  Now a little about that brother in law...who was a real evil person...that had  "setup Ademeni in Marcus' home and then set him for for a fall by claiming to the Emperor that Marcus has falling in love with a slave and has changed his loyalties."  OMG!  Princess Ademeni had been previously been  taken as a slave and given to General Marcus Cordovis's  home as a gift. So, wanting to revenge her family, Ademeni plots to kill her captor and escape...but before this happens... a passionate kiss...Is she falling in love with Marcus?   NOW,  this is wen I say that you must read "Surrender to the Roman" and find out how this comes out.  Will it be revenge or love? How will Marcus get out of this mess with the Emperor"  and  How did the young daughter of Marcus come into all of this?

The storyline had a very well plotted and heartwarming  that will keep  you turning the pages until the end which will surprise you how it turns out.  If you would like to read a historical romance I  would  recommend "Surrender to the Roman" a good read for you.

THE OPPOSITE OF HALLELUJAH

Author:  Anna Jarzab
Published by:  Delacorte Books For Young Readers
Age Recommend:  12 YA
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For: GMTA

Review:

"The Opposite of Hallelujah" by Anna Jarzab was truly one wonderful enjoyable read.
The author Anna Jarzab was able to let us see how faith, forgiveness and above all
sisterhood in the wonderful read of "The Opposite Of Hallelujah" could really be a
exciting book for any YA.  Yes, it deals with spirituality and Catholicism but in a very
inspiring way.... not coming across as 'preachy or overbearing.' 

Although "The Opposite of Hallelujah" was a lengthy....it still was a quick dialogue read that covers a well packed topics presenting a lots of ideas to digest in terms of understanding grief and faith.... also this author brings in great elements in this story.... using, MC Escher and  physics and science.  Well done!  

The characters:  I can't say enough about were quick and smart....Carolina, Hannah, Father Bob, Reb, Erin, Derek, Pawel,  Sabra and Byrne Griffin.  Truly these people made this story a worth read being so full of being sometimes witty and even funny. 

Even though their was much tension and anger that was felt in this read ...... you must
pick up "The Opposite of Hallelujah" to see how this all works out. The story centers around sixteen year old Caro, whose life as an only child is interrupted by the return of her much older sister, Hannah, who has moved home after suddenly leaving a convent and life as a nun....and the story really takes off.   Truly this novel was a story of a family that needed healing....and in the end...just pick up this read to see how this happens.


If you are in for a special wonderful YA read ... I would recommend "The Opposite of Hallelujah" for you.

Rules Of Negotiaition

Author:   Inara Scott
Published by:  Entangled Publishing
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Review For: GMTA

Review:


"Rules of Negotiation" by Inara Scott was a nice  well written romantic novel that was  told from the third person perspective.  It was one of those novels that I could not put down until I was finished with it.  The  "Rules of Negotiation" was one that was easy to get caught up in and the characters were simply off the chart good. Besty was truly one character that really was funny and really added to this story. Now the hero...Brit and heroine Ton i(both workaholics) with their problems ... I found that they really fit together perfectly after all is said and done.  You can feel  the chemistry between them  and yes there  were some really hot scenes that are simply beautiful...such good dialogues.  .. You will be drawn into this storyline that will make you laugh out loud, cry and then maybe even say OMG!  Now,  I will tell you a little about the novel.... Brit flirts with Toni ....what does this guy want?...he wants Tori's  help in getting  his little sister a job for one of Tori's clients. This novel is definitely one that will be fun just seeing how both sides struggles with their unexpected feelings for each other and how this all end....   Will Attorney Toni Anderson and Brit Bencher, CEO of Excorp, be ale to negotiate some rules for just them? Will the end of the story tell it all?  Well you will simply have to find out by picking up and reading "Rules Of Negotiation."  Be ready to some "sexy, sweet,  humor, tension, sorrow, and very emotional  storyline" that will be all  simply a good read.

If you are interested in a fun, steamy, funny and delightful  read... "Rules of Negotiation" will be a good read for you and I would recommend it  to you.

River's End

Author: Melody Carlson
Published by: Abingdon Press
Age Recommend: 16
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For: GMTA


Review:


"River's End" by Melody Carlson was a wonderful great ending read for this series. Dealing
with Anna Larson's granddaughter Sarah ...where Sarah is unwilling to forgive her
parents, running away and then being caught up in a religious cult (commune)...that only Sarah could get out of when she was ready to do so.....however, the family was always trailing behind, hoping that they can save her, but could they?   With all of this going on everyone suffers until it is made known that only forgiveness and grace could only bring this family back into the the folds. This was "three generations of family heartbreak and disappointments at 'Shinning Waters' as Sarah finds God right in the center of it all." I could not have said or thought of this novel in any other way. The author has written a wonderful novel dealing with the grandmother, mother and daughter...showing no matter what has happened to Sarah, how she had treated her parents.... God still loved her and so did her family. In the end it has to be said that this was a story of all of us... "The Heritage of Shinning Waters and how they all had their own' Trail of Tears' to walk."


If you are looking for a real christian book....I believe you have found it in this novel: "River's End" that Melody Carlson has delivered so wonderfully. I would recommend this as a good read.

The Redemption of Lord Rawlings

Author:  Rachel Van Dyken
Published By:   Astraea Press
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For:  Great Minds Think Aloud

Review:

"The Redemption of Lord Rawlings" by Rachel Van Dyken was some good read.  I loved it.  Now, I will admit I am a 'House of Renwick' fan so I really wanted to see what Ms. Van Dyken had for us in this read.  I was not disappointed at all.  Truly this novel was one of steer enjoyment..one of the best....that had me definitely laughing out loud!  This novel was one of love and the characters were really amusing, exciting, humorous....all combined into one.  This author really knows how to get your attention and keep it focus on it!  Just to be able to see Lord Rawlings from the previous book now a hero?    Ms Van Dyken works a wonderful story that brought people to life just with words.  This was a page turner that I could not put down until the end.... and kept on the edge of my seat through the whole novel just wanting to know what was coming next.  The plot, the reason for redemption,  characters and then the romance  were all very well dealt with  in this novel.   Now, this is the time I will simply say get ....pick up  "The Redemption of Lord Rawlings"... for you will not be disappointed with this absorbed read.  


If you are looking for a enjoyable read "The Redemption of Lord Rawlings" will not disappoint you and I would recommend as a good romantic read.  Thank you Ms. Van Dyken... you did a wonderful job with this well written novel!

THE SENTENCE

Author:  Elaine Cantrell
Published by:  Astraea Press
Age Recommend:  16
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"The Sentence" by Elaine Cantrell was one of the most amazing novels that was simply
a excellent read!  The characters were simply off the chart good!

For six months Clint was prisoner in the  ministers home, instead of 6 months in jail,  due to the fact that he had been accused of setting fire to their church.  Clint was there to help rebuild the church with the help of the other church members.  I did like the way this author was able to deliver to the reader truly the thoughts of the people...many were upset the the judges decision and you could see how they could feel this way however, there were a few people who showed love in the heart to forgive  and I believe that was really what this novel was about...'forgiving'....and that is what happened in "The Sentence."   Now, Clint is there working and  even  turning his life around..What else will change for Clint?  This is the part where I say you must read "The Sentence" to find out because there will be a few surprises.

I found "The Sentence" very inspirational for me and if you are in for a nice sweet romance
then this novel would be recommend for you.

 

On ONE Condition

Author:  Diane Alberts
Published by:  Entangled Publishing
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  4
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:


"On One Condition" by Diane Alberts was indeed a entertaining contemporary romantic quick  read about a marriage of convenience.  Starting with the "morning  after the night before,"....which turns  be very somewhat funny on just how these two people met and then this novel takes off from that... with Johanna Thomas who was a kindergarten  elementary
teacher that  hated Valentine's Day.  Why was this?   Well, Johanna  hated being alone watching other couples being so in love...and even worse was the annual charity auction held at her school for all the singles to have to go through... this being her third time!  Now she meets this British Lord, Viscount Damon Haymes.... had she met him before? ... and OMG what  happen? ...Damon proposals to her.....they marry and live  happy ever after ...well .. you will find out from your reading just how Johanna's ex (Tim)  and Damon's ex(Cecile)  or ? always  seemed to turn up.   How will things turn out between Damon and Johanna? Now, this is the point of time where I say you must pick up "On One Condition" to  find out what one condition is  going on with  these two people: Johanna and Damon.

The characters that the author presents are really very interesting people....Johanna,
Viscount  Damon Haymes, Jeff, Tim, Cecile, Mr. Johnson and Sara. Each one really made
this read exciting in their  form of their words that was absorbed by the reader.

"On One Condition" was a real cute quick read of the..."old story of a marriage of convenience that lead to true love."  This was definitely a novel that would keep you wanting to know what was going to happen next. If you are in for a interesting heroine, lots of laughs, adventure, and a quick romantic read... I would recommend ..."On One Condition" novel  for you.

 

The Christmas Phoenix

Author: Patricia Kiyono
Published By:  Astraea Press
Age Recommend: 16
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:


"The Christmas Phoenix" by Patricia Kiyono was a really good Christmas story in one finding new beginning.  This was a real quick short story but really well written novel. Jess's life was one of being a single parent after the death of her husband with a fourteen year old son.  Did she have her chores....working two jobs, putting food on the table but most of all being there for her son. It was not a good time for Jess and something good  happens and that is Jake Thompson, a ice sculpturer... moves in the neighborhood.  He was definitely in the need of healing..recovering  from a disastrous relationship and war in Iraq.  Jake was now living in his sister's  vacation summer home during the winter.  Upon there meeting and getting to know each other .... will (Jess and Jake) come together in "The Christmas Phoenix" and be able to start a new life together? Truly, Jess needed someone to help start  a new life with  and Jake needed someone  to "ignite the fire in his heart and burn away all the hurt." 


The characters were really fulled with a lot of strength...Jess working very heard providing
for her son and Jake trying to stand alone but soon..."he changes  when he see how hard
it is for Jess and I don't want to leave out the dog who just needed extra love from  the boy.
Now, this is where I say you must pick up this good read to see just what "The Christmas
Phoenix" is all about.....  Definitely  this was a second chance for Jess and Jake. Get ready
for a genuine good read.


Be ready for a very a loving novel with interesting details  that I would recommend as a
good short read.  I also found the book cover is really  beautiful piece of art to look at too.

Moonlight on the Palms

Author:  Lisa Green
Published by:  Astraea Press
Age Recommend:  16
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Moonlight on the Palms" by Lisa Green was a very sweet contemporary romance. In Ms. Green's writings you can  really see she how "she fuses her love of the written word  with an enjoyment of studying people."  I believe she did a wonderful job with this novel... "Moonlight on the Palms" being a  of betrayal and healing.

This person Astrid Kent from Seattle  was hurt in just two specific ways ....her ex boyfriend
and  dear mother.  After eleven years  of not speaking with  her mother....her mother
dies and now Astrid is back home in Brownsville...dealing with the will and going  to the
funeral ceremony........now she is at her mother's home where there are now two men Manfred Barnes and Juan Marquesz.. later.she see someone prowling at night around the house(La Casa) at night ..and then finds a letter and codes telling her not to trust anyone. What was strange about all of this?...later finding a paper behind her mother's painting of her....Astrid showed this  paper to Manfred .......Was Astrid seeing her mother's ghost? Were these two men in love with  Astrid? ....Did Astrid mother's home have secrets?  Will Astrid be able to solve the mystery behinds her "mother's other-worldly help  and be able to find forgiveness for her mother's betrayal?"   Now, in order to get all of these questions answered and even  more  you must pick up "Moonlight on the Palms" to find out all of the secrets that will be revealed in this read and what a ending!


"Moonlight on the Palms"  was a good read for me and if you are interested in a good
contemporary romance then this novel is a good read for you.

Kidnapped by the Greek Billionaire

Author:  Rachel Lyndhurst
Published By:  Entangled Publishing
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For:  Great Minds Think Aloud

Review:


"Kidnapped by the Greek Billionaire" by Rachel Lyndhurst was a real interesting romantic read.  The storyline was very amazing with this alpha male and a very audacious heroine. I felt this was a enjoyable Greek romance with the history so incorporated into this story. It was very hard to put this novel down, the characters were all interesting people with lots of friction and  of tension  but all of it drew you into the story and  the Book Cover isn't bad to look at either!

Now for this story... The Greek Billionaire Attorney...was strange in that he was so  arrogant and just a jerk especially at the beginning of this story...however, as the story develops... was this true of Andreas Lazarides? .......as for  Kizzy Dean...a restaurant manager who  tries to convince Andreas of her business plan to keep Timi's  business going, however, due to Andreas mothers' will he was not able to let this happen...so he kidnaps her....where this really becomes a proposition to get her to do as   wanted.... so he gives Kizzy a offer and since she had no future going on in her life....she accepts his  proposal and this is where this  story takes off.

So off they go to the Greek Island of Rhodes and Andreas starts to offer her opportunities she could not refuse....for Kizzy has no family and no job... and she was loving her surroundings and a ever growing desire to be with Andreas.  There was a game being played...  but just who was playing who?  Wasn't  this what Andreas had wanted all along?  Their developing relationship had started very shaky... and now how will this end up.....  between these two people? What you will see is a relationship  that has develop from hatred to a friendship that turns into hot sex  and then came  love. For Kizzy was definitely Andreas 'Kadia mou' and now she was..... and what secrets were there? Now, I have told you more than I should have so now you will find out  the rest of the story by picking up the excellent read you will find out just how novel will comes out and be ready  for a  unforgettable ending.

I found "Kidnapped by the Greek Billionaires" a very marvellous read  that was 'cute, sexy, and most of all loving' and if you are in for a good Greek romance then this novel is a good one for you.     

FAMILIAR TIES

Author:  Naya Nikki
Published by:  Inkspell  Publishing
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA

Review:

"Familiar Ties" by Naya Nikki was a sweet wonderful romance.  The author did a wonderful job at sharing with us this wonderful well written novel that was narrated over a span of  just seven days going from present time to flashbacks of earlier times in their lives. It was definitely a read that I could not put down until the end. This is really a story of romance...filled with friendship, love, family and all of the emotions just pouring out of this wonderful story.

Two friends... Max West and Amy Riley that are found raising their two lovely little girls(Phoebe and Grace). Max is a widower (author) and Amy was a ex girlfriend ... who was now with Jack.  There are a lot of twist and turns in this novel that will keep you turning the pages to how this author will get these two people (Max and Amy) finally together.  Once Max realizes that  he can't live without Amy and Amy finally come to realism of what is important  in her life....then.... On  the fifth anniversary of Max' wife's death and also his daughters' fifth birthday.... will these two people (Max and Amy) realize that they are for each other and they can be a family?  This is where I can only  say you will have to  pick up this excellent  novel  and then then you will find out....  what a ending! Saying I like this: "Little moments like these when two broken families become one..."

The author did a wonderful job at conveying death and grieving, parenting, friendship,
heartache and love.  You will be made to laugh out loud, smile and maybe even cry at all
the happenings in the beautifully written  uplifting story.  

"Familiar Ties" left me saying 'Wow' what a excellent read and I am sure if you pick up this
novel you will not be disappointed.  I would recommend "Familiar Ties" as a excellent read.


 

EGYPTIAN HEART

Author:  Kathryn Meyer Griffith
Published by:  Eternal  Press
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Egyptian Heart" by Kathryn Meyer Griffith was a different type of romantic read...through time travel all mixed up in the past (1340 BC)  Egyptian life,  culture and then brought in a romance of a woman from the twenty-first century.  I really liked the way this wonderful author brings us another one of her good novels... that will captivate our attention for the reader to want  more.


The storyline was simply well written with lots of detail. This was definitely a page turner for me.  Maggie Owens was a Egyptologist who was given a  grant for three months to work in Egypt (Great Pyramids)  to explore the areas around Gizah searching for the 'lost tomb.'  In Egypt, its  life has very harsh, hot and lonely...however, Maggie  finds the ancient tomb of Ramose, Nakh-Min...and then  finds the secret area that had a 'magic  amulet.'  Maggie had already been given a amulet for protection....everything was fine until the two amulets touched...and then 'Maggie falls and the past comes forth where she meets Ramose...who was the servant of Pharaoh Athenationa and Queen Nefertiti.'  How did Maggie get there and will she come back? What was Maggie up against with the people?  How does this 21st century woman  deal with this situation...now in ancient time ....'of being a woman of lesser value ...and even  slaves to the men?'  Would Maggie find love in this place with all of the violence, turbulence and danger that was all around her?  Being the master storyteller that this author is...... using  historical references about the Egyptian pharaohs and the politicis delivering her message in the story to the reader.   Now this is the part where I say you will have to pick up this good read  to find out....I did and enjoyed the read!

If you are in for a strong hero, great heroine and loss  of action-pact with some real interesting characters from the time long-past....then I would recommend  "Egyptian Heart"  as a excellent  time travel romance novel  for you.

VEIL OF PEARLS

Author:  MaryLu Tyndall
Published by:  Barbour Books
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:


"Veil of Pearls" by MaryLu Tyndall was a good read.  I was a little hesitate with the title dealing with slavery in the 1800's, but I am glad to did continued reading ..because in the end I felt the novel was a excellent and well written novel. Be ready for a lots  twist and turns all the way till the end. Truly Ms. Tyndall was able to really help  the reader understand what this young woman named Althea had gone through. Leaving Barbados  from a sugar slavery plantation  and the cruel...  Sir Walter Miles  to Charleston, South Carolina...to where Athea is able to  reinvent herself by changing her name to Adalia...working in an local orphanage as a herb healer ....then to becoming a assist to Doctor Willaby. Now Adalia was able to take care of local 'Negros' that needed help especially the slaves on the plantations.  Athea was so thankful to God  to now have her freedom.

How was Adalia able to do all of  this?  Well, ...... Adalia was very light-skinned and no one was able to detect that  she was negro or a runaway slave....Can you believe that Adalia  catches  the eye of one  young man  who was from one  of the most wealthy families in Charleston.   Now, how these two people  were to come together turns out to be a very interesting story. There relationship was able to grew into a true love and in the end both Adalia and Morgan would be able to give these  worries to God.  Now I will stop at this point because I don't want to give  any more away...just  pick up "Veil of Pearls" and see how Adalia and Morgan are broughtthrough all of this....Will Morgan start believing in God?  What is going on with Emerald and Dr. Willsby? What so special about Adalia's pearls?

The characters were really very interesting....Althea (Adalia), Sir Walter Miles, Captain
Faraday, Dr. Willaby, Mrs, Charlotte, The Rutledges.... Franklin, mom, Morgan, Hadley.... and Lizzie .... Emerald, Caroline, Captain Kane Bristow, Aniston Mulberry, Joseph Drayton, Lord Demmings, Rabian Saville, Joy, Mayor Calla and some I have left for you to find out who they are.

"Veil of Pearls" was a real historical love  story that you will get caught up in ... not being
able to put the novel down until you are finished.... the ending was wonderful  and I would
recommend this novel as a good  read.  

Thriller 3: LOVE IS MURDER

Authors: bySandra Brown (Goodreads Author) (Editor), Lee Child, Carla Neggers (Goodreads Author), Beverly Barton, Robert Gregory Browne (Goodreads Author), Pamela Callow (Goodreads Author), Jeff Ayers & Jon Land, William Bernhardt (Goodreads Author),more...Bill Floyd, J.T. Ellison (Goodreads Author), Vicki Hinze (Goodreads Author), Julie Kenner (Goodreads Author), Sherrilyn Kenyon, Cindy Gerard, D.P. Lyle, James Macomber (Goodreads Author), Toni McGee Causey, Laura Griffin (Goodreads Author), Patricia Rosemoor, Heather Graham (Goodreads Author), Allison Brennan (Goodreads Author), Andrea Kane (Goodreads Author), Lori Armstrong, Dianna Love, Brenda Novak, Roxanne St. Claire
Published By:  Mira Books
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: Great Minds Think Aloud


Review:

"Love Is Murder" by all these wonderful authors: by Sandra Brown (Goodreads Author) (Editor), Lee Child, Carla Neggers (Goodreads Author), Beverly Barton, Robert Gregory Browne (Goodreads Author), Pamela Callow (Goodreads Author), Jeff Ayers & Jon Land, William Bernhardt (Goodreads Author) , Bill Floyd, J.T. Ellison (Goodreads Author), and Vicki Hinze (Goodreads Author) was indeed some read that many of the 29 romantic suspense short stores were very enjoyable...some  well....you will have to read this "Love Is Murder" to pick yours likes  out.  However, on a whole I did enjoy the long read. You will not get bored...so hang in there and let the reading begin. Many of the authors were new to me...which I did like having some new authors to add to my already long list.  The short stores were full of action packed adventure with  many twist and turns that will keep you reading to  find out out how the story was going to turn out...some even left you hanging.  Be ready for the characters to be...serial killers, private detectives, hostages, kidnapping, theft, murder, robbers, police officers, lawyers,  vigilantes and I will stop here but there  are even more!  The locations for this short stories are all over the globe. Be prepared for a long read
but it will be worth it.

If you are into romance, suspense, mystery and even thrillers..."Love Is Murder" is for you.  I feel you will not be disappointed  and I would recommend this long read as a good read.  You will be definitely entertained.

The Marriage Bargain

Author:  Jennifer Probst
Published By:  Entangled Publishing, LLC
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  4
Blog Review For:  Great Minds Think Aloud

Review:

"The Marriage Bargain" by Jennifer Probst was a good romantic read and the book cover isn't too bad to look at either.  I really laughed out loud at some of the hilarious  humor that is  in this storyline.

This novel was indeed very sweet, funny and yet very interesting read.  Ms. Probst did a wonderful job in getting Billionaire Nicholas Ryan and Alexa McKenzie(childhood sweethearts) together with both being believers. Alexa believed in family...rooting for the Mets and trying to live her life with a purpose. Nick on the other had believes only in things which he could control...like his career and very much his independence. Definitely this was two opposites that are drawn together in a romance that really turns into real  love. After Alexa and Nick enter into a contract where they will be married for a year (in name only...with certain rules...avoiding entanglement...keeping things all business and not fall in love) ... but secretly did they have feeling for each other?   This was a wonderful relationship between  Alexa and Nick both having secrets to be worked out. What were the secrets?  Now,  this is where I say you will have to pick up this  good novel  "The Marriage Bargain" to find out how this turns out.  You will not be sorry!

I found "The marriage Bargain" a very amazing read that you will stay with until its
beautiful ending leaving you smiling.  I would definitely recommend this read to any adult
who wants a good romantic read.

 

STOLEN BUT NOT LOST

Author:  Janet Tombow
Published By:  Carpenters Son Pulblishing
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Stolen But Not Lost" by Janet Tombow was indeed some read for me. There was indeed a lot to take in and understand why some things happen people. It is definitely how you deal with it ......that really matters. Ms. Janet Tombow had a very bad childhood but what a good life she was able to find and even become a real part of her birth mother's life. To meet your mom after 45 year... I can only say Wow! This novel could be very important for anyone who is looking for a birth parent.

I thought this was a wonderful inspiring true novel of a very painful child...but the search for Janet's birth mom and finally finding her really was interesting in how this all came together. Janet and her mom did 'grieve the lost years and learn forgiveness.' However, taking daily steps by step ....... Janet and her mom, Norma was able with much prayer to be able to move on with their lives....'what had pasted is just that....we have now.'   Oh, what a life they did have together. Ms. Tombow was able to tell her personal story being very open making you feel much compassion. It was a novel that I couldn't put down until the end.

"Stolen But Not Lost" was a excellent read and the saying 'Love Conquers All' is what this novel is all about. This was one amazing novel that I will not forget....for I was also adopted.

THE CINDERELLA BLUES

Author:  Obren Bokich
Published by: Createspace
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA







Review:



"The Cinderella Blues" by Obren Bokich was a good read. The novel was indeed amusing and funny.... being a very heart warming fairytale. The main character was Kat who was a 'hopeless romantic.' It seems that everything that was to go right went very wrong for Kat. Kat was first involved with a guy (Marty...for eight years) that seemed to hardly pay any attention to her and now wanting to take a break ... later he then calls Kat and meets with her on her birthday and ask her if he can ask her best friend... Tina out! WHAT!


Now, Kat starts baking cookies, cupcakes.....a very interesting hobby that will be of benefit to her later...(read the book... you will see what I am talking about) and working herself to death(doing her job, helping Tina which is on her team. then with another attraction...that shows up...(her boss... Jason)...what's up with that? Will something come of this? After all he is very attractive. Jason has even showed interest however, on a planned business trip to Seattle that didn't go well and Kat realizes that Jason was not what she wanted.

The author had some really good characters in this storyline....Kat, Marty, Tina, Juanita, Rebecca, Jason, Joan Young, Aunt Ruth, John, Max and Cooper. Kat's friends were very nice and very supportive which really added in this storyline....I liked the balloons at work for Kat's birthday and then a lunch with friends. After Kat moves into her aunts place...the friends (Tina and Juanita)really step up and really help her clean up Kat's aunts home.

Then comes another guy into the picture...Cooper who is 'cute, smart and an artist' but with Kat having so much bad luck with men decides that she only wants to be friends with Cooper. Did Cooper want more? What happens to Kat?....Will she find true love? What secrets did Cooper have? What is the big secret that Kat's mother will not share with Kat? There is even a feel of a ghost....now I am sure you are asking...What was that about? Now this is where I say that you must pick up "The Cinderella Blues" novel and find out just what all of this is about. You will not be sorry.


I really enjoyed this good read where I did laughed often. "The Cinderella Blues" will put a smile on your face and will be enjoyed by many girlfriends. The ending was great and I would recommend "The Cinderella Blues" as a wonderful read.


 

A Very Southern Affair

Author:  Elaina Lee
Published by:  Muse Publishing
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:  5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"A Very Southern Affair" by Elaina Lee was a good romance read.  It was definitely a novel that would make you smile and laugh out loud!  I really enjoyed every page of the book.  The novel flowed very well from the beginning till the end.   You were kept intrigued  with this storyline just wandering what was going to happen next!

Hollee Rutherford is from a small southern  town in Belleville and was  the towns 'Liaison.'  Hollee was to  welcome Kaiden Thorne from Pennsylvania  to the town...and the company he worked for was thinking of building a resort in Belleville, Alabama ...and the local town people did not want this...so many tried doing anything to drive Kaiden off...even into putting fleas in this motel room.  Now what would  happen next.... Hollee is starting  to care about this Kaiden guy, however Hollee had always had bad memories when it came to love.  Memories of FOUR fiances who had died after she became engaged to them. This was very strange...now Hollee is  thinking she had been cursed, so....Hollee vows to stay away from Kaiden Thorpe. Kaiden hadn't had a good run in the (love) department  either..."if he didn't need this conniving town to save his career....he would be out of here."  There were several series of weird things that happened to him..from having fleas in his hotel  room,to have be  given a live fish to eat, his important  work pages fly all over the room from the fan...but it seemed like the two....... Hollee and Kaiden couldn't stay apart.....many funny episodes..... football game on TV  with  weird  neighbors.... The Sinclairs... the visit from the deputy at Hollee's office .....the flying large roach the size of a mouse..........then finding  a closet of bride dresses and shoes...and this is where I say you will have to pick up this wonderful good  novel..." A Very Southern Affair" to see how it turns out.  Will this resort ever be built in Belleville?

The characters were really amazing and you are drawn into every one of them.....Hollee, Kaiden, Booker, Charlene, Aunt Mazie, Estelle Cabrino, Mayor, Devan Winbourne, Jerthro Rollins, Annabelle, Mrs. Brakefield, Mrs. Reenee Humpston, Mr. Brady, Bubba, Lynzee, Bear, Nick, Deputy Chris Ryan, Emma Reynolds, Mary Jean Riley, Rev. Sanders, Coach Haygood and Teddy Gomez.....I am sure I have left someone out.....

This indeed  was  a fun  but yet serious novel that was well written beautifully.  If you
are for a sexy southern romance...."A Very Southern Affair" will be  a good read.

"Listening To Dust"

Author: Brandon Shire
Published by:  TPG Books
Age Recommend:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Raven Rating:   5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:

"Listening to Dust by Brandon Shire was a very sad fiction for me.  I don't read many gay books however, this title caught my interest and I am glad I did read it.  The novel was definitely one that was of "love, hate, loss, passion, compassion and much pain."  The author was excellent at telling this story that will grab you from the very beginning  till the end.  I found that as a read this novel,  I was left believing that this  really happens  in real life.  You will be left wanting more if there could be any more....WoW!

 In the novel..."Listening to Dust" you will find two young from different backgrounds...that are
brought together and then torn apart. With Stephen his parents had been murdered and he
meets  Dustin  who was a  drunk American  soldier with a troubled pass... and love is found by these two men, but is torn away due to the fact that Dustin has to go back home to see to his younger  brother.

How this all of this is played out is a work of art by this author ... after a year Stephens finally comes to America in search of  Dustin...and he wasn't prepared to what he found...Was it too late?  Now, you will have to pick up this excellent read and  find out the conclusion and don't be surprised just how it all turns out.... because "nothing is perfect, not even love."


I found "Listening to Dust" was a excellent read that  I would recommend.