Mariah's Quest

Author: Sally Laity, Dianna Crawford
Published By: Barbour Books
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Book Blog For:  GMTA
Rating: 5
Review:

"Mariah's Quest" by the two authors..Sally Laity and Dianna Crawford was a beautiful Christan a historical romance. I found "Mariah's Quest" a very well written romance of Mariah...as she grows up..from England she comes to  the American colonies...only to be sold and really learns to rely on God.  The setting of this novel was a historical setting during the Revolutionary War era. "Mariah's Quest" starts out ..."with Mariah being sold into bond to a handsome young man(Colin) and taken to his families plantation" and this wonderful novel will continue to give the reader a some marvelous dialog read.  Be ready for Mariah to becomes a tutorer to Colin's three sisters...Colin then goes on a long trip to sell horses for his family...he goes to England and returns bringing her a  engagement ring for Mariah. ... then with war starting up...now, not wanting to tell anymore...I want you to pick up "Mariah Quest" to see what all is happening in  this excellent read that will only  keep your interest until the very end. The real question will  be answered...Will Mariah and Colin finally  find a 'authentic love' that will prevail for them?  I really enjoyed how these authors entered the history into this novel..."a war with a young George Washington" ..along with
plantation owners, slaves...the French and Indian War and also indentured
servants.   Be ready for plenty of  drama, history, suspense and romance in this
novel.  The characters were all well developed after some time  and you will see emotions especially with Mariah, the three sisters and definitely the Ms. Cora Barclay.  I am sure you will see the why, what and who  during the read.
 
"Mariah's Quest" offered a definitely air of a Christian historian romance read that I would definitely recommend as a excellent read.  It is my understanding
that this novel was  a second in a series and I am certainly looking forward to   Book 3.

Her Latin Lover

Author: Katheryn Lane
Published By: K.L.
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4
Review:


"Her Latin Lover" by Katheryn Lane was a good romantic read. Only after being brought by Don Paulo from a poker game did Marry realize that her jerk of a boyfriend had sold her to him?   What? Not only had  Mary found out that she had been sold to this Don Paulo (Latin person) but that she (Mary) had a  resemblance of  a person he had once loved. Mary was from London and had come to South America with her journalist boyfriend..who had  now left her with no  money...only to be found abandoned...and penniless.  Can you imagine being away from home in another country... with no money?  The man who won Mary in the card game  has problems of his own..in that he was  haunted by his
family’s a sorrowful and violent past. What will happen to this young school teacher from London?  The novel has some well developed characters  that are very sharp in that it will keep you on the edge of your seat.

I enjoyed how Mary was so full of determination and this only leads us to  wonder how she will come out of this.  This is where I say to find out you must pick up "Her Latin Lover" novel  to find out.

If you are looking for some romance that has some danger along with some excitement...you have come to the right place and I would recommend
"Her Latin Lover" to you as a good read.

Eternity

Author: TMonique Stephens
Published By: Soul Mate Publishing
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5

Review:

"Eternity" by TMonique Stephens was indeed a good mystery, 'Egyptian mythology,' and every bit of a romantic paranormal love story.  This was of a curse that kept Roman and Stella (Elyssian, his soul mate) for over 2000 years...and left him searching for her soul.  I found all of the characters that this author created for this novel was somewhat strong with emotional and in some delightful way offering such color and depth that can only be solved in such a mysterious suspenseful mystery way. "Eternity" was presented with many twist and turns that will only keep you interested in this well written read. Be ready for a well action packed novel that will not be dull in any way offering suspense, mystery..of a serial killer...and not to leave out real love and passion.  "The mind of the killer and his relationship to the Egyptian Gods is fed to you throughout the book giving you hints and teases along  the way as to who the killer may be."  This is where I will tell you that to find out the where, when, why and what of it all of this good novel ...  you must pick up "Eternity" to find out about this suspenseful mystery read.

With this being a start of a series for this author and I am sure that we will get even more of this world of mythology novels  and yes I would definitely recommend "Eternity" as a excellent novel for a great start.

Mixed Signals

Author: AlTonya Washington
Published by: A.W.
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5

Review:

"Mixed Signals" by AlTonya Washington was once again a wonderful read that only this author can produce.  There was chemistry between Gabriella and Damian was definitely there...along with a very sweet and really hot...wonderful good read. Be ready for a read that will have many twist and turns...loaded with extreme jealousy...among other things that you will only get from picking up "Mixed Signals" to find out just what this short story read is all about.  All of the
characters were on the mark...good...all making this read a excellent read.
In the end...Will she marry Damian?

If you are looking for a excellent romantic story line...you have come to the right place...for I would recommend "Mixed Signals" to you as one of those reads.

Lover's Christmas

Author: AlTonya Washington
Published By: A.W.
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5

Review:

"Lover's Christmas" by AlTonya Washington was a short story read that I really enjoyed... also this is part of a series. In this holiday read we find the couples at a  winter vacation  resort in the mountains.  Be ready to find these couples full of passion...fiery love...steamy scenes and you know or will find out much drama in the saga of 'A Lover's Dream.  

I found "Lover's Christmas" a wonderful Christmas romance novel that only this author can give with all...the spouses, children, friends and family gathered together.   This author always keep us the  reader waiting  for her next book...leaving me only to say Wow what a good read!

With all that being said...yes,  I would recommend "Lover's Christmas" to you as a excellent read.  Please note:  This is a Adult Read.

 

The Royal Sheikh

Author: Katheryn Lane
Published by: K.L.
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4

Review:

"The Royal Sheikh" by Katheryn Lane was a real good romantic read for me.  How this author was able to get this architect (Clare) and 'Middle Eastern Prince'(Rafiq) together was definitely a work of art.  This prince had been known simply as a 'Playboy Prince'..but was this all true?  "The Royal sheikh"  was a light read that turned out to be very sweet and romantic... but not necessarily 'steamy.'  I really did like the way Ms. Lane kept the story moving forward.   The characters ...especially Clare's  friend Louise was  just that ...a true friend.
Now, this is where I will say to find out all... you must pick up this good read to find out just what is going on in the enchanting romance with this prince.  


If you are looking for a quick light romantic read... I would definitely recommend "The Royal Sheikh" to you as a good read. 

The Sanctuary

Author: Cara Cooper
Published By: Astraea Press 
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4
Review:

"The Sanctuary" by Cara Cooper was a very pleasant story.  You will find 'love commitment, heartache and healing' in this well written novel.  All of the characters.. from  Kimberley, Scott, Celia, Anton, Grace, Simone, Zachary, Lauren, Mark, Dr. Carstairs, Florence to Joe...all... of these people made this a  wonderful read. The story starts with Kimberley inheriting a animal sanctuary
from her cousin...their you will find the donkey, fox and a rescued dog among others... troubled teenager...romance that would be threated...and a mystery from the past.  Now, to really get a understanding of it all you must pick up and read "The Sanctuary" that this author has provided.


If you are in for a good mystery and a heartwarming romance you have come to the right place and yes, I would recommend "The Sanctuary" as a good read.

Draugr

Author: K.M. Spires
Published by: CreateSpace
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4

Review:

"Draugr" by K.M.Spires was a sad read in that it dealt with a lots of devastating problems...death, suicide, and mAurder.  It is really one of those reads that gets better as you continue to read it.  This young man(Josh) had just lost his girlfriend (Mia)...was it suicide or murder.  The author K. M. Spires, kept my   interest...the characters were all intriguing people...many that were not too likable.  What  will Josh do in order to get his love back...well this is where I say you must pick up "Draugr" for yourself to see.  Be prepared for a ride because there will be many twist and turns along the way and omg....what a ending!  Will love conquer all?


If you are in for a mystery with many twist and turns...action packed, with gay-lesbian issues  and and  even abusiveness...then..."Draugr" will be a good read
for you.

Safeword Davenport

Author: Candace Blevins
Published By: Excessica  
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4

Review:

"Safeword Davenport" by Candace Blevins was a interesting read.  Yes, it was of sex (BDSM)...of a relationship of a couple with an alternative lifestyle.  Now, just let be begin by saying...this is a Adult Mature book and not for everyone.  The book will explore:  bondage, spanking, sex scenes, whips, rough sex...hardcore stuff.  The novel features...Dana who is trying to recover from the lost of her husband for the pass two years and she meet Zack who is also recovering from the death of his wife.  The story ... "comes forth showing how they both deal with their  past, embrace their present and hope for the future again."

I will say this novel is more than about sex...and this is where I say if you are interested in this type of  reading ... you must pick up "Safeword Davenport" and see for yourself what it is all about.  You will find that this author deals with the problems that this  couple has and will face.  Be ready for a lot of emotions to flow  and each  character ...from Dana, Garnet, Zach to Bethany ...all very
interesting.


I would only recommend "Safeword Davenport: to the reader that is interested
in this particular genre. Be ready for a very intensed read..it is not for the weak-minded or faint at heart. I must say this book covered it all and I read things I had no idea about.... leaving me only to say Wow!

Secrets & Lies 2

Author: Tracy J. Jones
Published By: T.J.
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 5
Review:

"Secrets & Lies 2 by Tracy J. Jones was a continuation journey of Ms Jones previous drama...'Secrets and Lies' which offered the reader some interesting family relationship  reading.  In this novel we find Bren now stay at home wife and mom...and she had started a "journal that would chronicle her family lineage, her and his, past and present, for the benefit of any and all future generations"... and Wow what she didn't find. As she travels with her baby to visit her home town... you will be caught up  on a journey with Bren, Ulanda, Trey,Kenny, Kenny III(Kian), John, Adrian, Camilla, Zack, Josh,  to Allyson on this wonderful trip.  I will not give any of this wonderful story out because I want you the reader to pick up "Secrets & Lies 2 to find out just what this read is all about.  Also, if you haven't picked up 'Secrets & Lies' you might want to do read it also.  Will Bren get all the information she wanted on this visit?  Ms. Jones did a great job with bringing to its reader some mystery, a lots of
compassion on this journey for only  Bren in the end will find some realism
with her life. 


I would recommend Secrets & Lies 2  as a excellent  read and especially her first book...'Secret & Lies' too! 

The Scent of Rain

Author: Kristin Billerbeck
Published By: Thomas Nelson, Inc.  
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4

Review:

"The Scent of Rain" by Kristin Billerbeck was indeed a enjoyable read .... the storyline was definitely unique...of one losing their ability to smell...being left at the altar...what had happened to the missing groom? ... meeting someone due to a  new job location (Jesse)...and most of all I really enjoyed the christian element that was there throughout this wonderful read. The characters were all very believable from Daphne Sweeten to the  very last one.

"The Scent of Rain" will bring some laughter that you will only get from reading this novel and to have a best friend like Daphne had...(Sophie) was really off the chart.

If you are in for some mystery, little suspense, romance, Christian values and realistic characters... you have come to the right place and I would recommend "The Scent of Rain" to you as a good read.

Endangered

Author: Eliot Schrefer
Published By: Scholastic Press
Age Recommended: Teen, YA+
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 5

Review:

"Endangered" by Eliot Schrefer was quite some thrill of a read.  Truly the novel was a well written read  of the real issues of the 'terrifyingly real world of the Democratic Repuglic of the Congo.'  The story was of a young girl named Sophie(half white and half black) who was very responsible and courageous...a protagonist, and her journey to get away from violence that was all around her while she was protecting a bonobo(Otto). Now you may be asking just what is a 'Bonobo?'  As you read "Endangered" you will see how this heroine was able
to grow and even mature as she goes about to save this one bonobo all by herself.  I found this read a page turner because it was hard to put down until the very end.  This fast paced storytelling was simply off the chart good! In your read you will see just why saving the bonobos were so important. The author did a very good job at illustrating this relationship between the human and animals.  For Sophie will find 'love, friendship and compassion. "Endangered" is very emotional and a very intriguing story that will leave you saying 'Wow!'...what a good read only leaving you with the thought of those who ework with these 'Bonobos' are truly amazing people.


 With that being said...Yes, I would recommend this novel as a excellent read not only for the young...as a adult I really enjoyed this read.

Skinny

Author: Donna Cooner
Published By: Point Press 
Age Recommended:  YA
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Book Blog For:  GMTA
Rating: 4

Review:

"Skinny" by Donna Cooner was some read definitely a powerful one.  This novel is of a journey taken as this young lady under goes surgery to reduce her weight. Wow, I can only say what amusing novel this one is!  This author has choose  a wonderful topic that has troubled us forever...obesity of the  childhood...and I think she did a good job at accurately bringing out the pros  and cons of weight loss surgery.  There was definitely a positive message that this book delivers.. for Ms. Cooner.. the author was a gastric bypass patient herself.  Ms.  Cooner offers us a beautiful novel about over coming ones  insecurities and getting rid of that voiced that says 'you aren't good enough and skinny enough for anything!  Be ready to be taken on a long journey where demons will be faced. 

Be ready to laugh and even cry....but in the end after reading "Skinny" showing much bravery and courage...and I would recommend this one as a good quick read.

   

The Dark Unwinding

Author: Sharon Cameron
Published By: Scholastic Press
Age Recommended:  YA
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 5
Review:
"The Dark Unwinding" by Sharon Cameron was a wonderful YA read.  It was full of the 'supernatural psychology'...adding some weird evil aunts, children, a whole clockwork of magical figures and you only come out with some kind of thrilling adventure that can really be enjoyed by the teens.  This novel will definitely linger with you long after the read.  You will also find "The Dark
Unwinding" a fun read...the characters are really off the chart 'good.'  Be ready to be caught up in it all...from drama, humor, mystery, romance and a touch of darkness...that I haven't really determined if it's Gothic, or somewhat ...a Steampunk adventure.   You will be left to determine that as you read this excellent novel "The Dark Unwinding." 


If you are looking for a fantastic storyline you have come to the right place...for "The Dark Unwinding" will have it all for you and YES, I would recommend this novel as a excellent read.

The Whitney I Knew

Author: BeBe Winans
Published By: Worthy Publishing 
Age Recommended:  14+
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 5

Review:

"The Whitney I Knew" by Bebe Winans was a very enjoyable read. This author did a wonderful job in letting us really see Whitney in truth...dignity and love.  I thought this was a awesome novel that tells  'funny personal stories' that only this author could share with us .....the reader.   Mr. Winans gives his own perspective view and  with his discretion did a wonderful job of giving us..Whitney Houston (Nip) life truths that only he wanted to share with us ..the reader.  Mr. Winans wanted to open our eyes to see that Whitney Houston
was human...she breathed, cried, bleeds, falls, get up, stumble and just gets back up again.  Whitney Houston  was a 'loyal friend, mother, sister, daughter, cousin, aunt, and also a spouse.'

I felt "The Whitney I Knew" was beautiful written by a dear friend  that really loved Whitney.  Did Whitney have struggles...yes and many people have struggled too ...but one thing for sure we all know that Whitney Loved Jesus...her favorite song...'Jesus Loves Me.'

I really loved "The Whitney I Knew" and would recommend to all as a excellent read and will leave you yearning to hear her  beautiful  voice once again. 


 

Promises of Seduction

Author: Brenda Jackson
Published By: Harlequin
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5



Review:


"Promises of Seduction" by Brenda Jackson was another awesome romantic stories.  This was two classic Westmoreland series and a great love read and this is what can happen from a 'one night stand.'

The Durango Affair....

Savannah Claiborne (heroine)was a free lance photographer ...sister to Jessica...now she had found herself pregnant...she must inform the father...how would he take it? She leaves Philadelphia for Montana to visit... Durango Westmoreland (hero)from Montana...was a ranger...brother of Chase and sister in law...Jessica.  What would happen when he found out about the baby?
Now what happens when two people who have been hurt in different ways by love will be able to find the everlasting love in each one. Now, we will have to see what will happen in this novel...and this is where I say you must pick up this awesome read to find out just what will happen between these two people!

and now...

Ian's Ultimate Gamble...Ian Westmoreland...would this person remain single even after seeing Ms. Chamberlain after she had once betrayed him?...

Brooke Chamberlain...now what was going on with them at this time? Now, again this is where I tell you in order to find out you must pick up the wonderful read to find out what is in store for Ian and Brooke?  For this author will keep you turning the pages till the end with such good writing.

As always,  Ms. Jackson produces such awesome read and I would definitely
recommend "Promises of Seduction" to you as a excellent read.

Texas Wild (The Westmorelands)

Author: Brenda Jackson
Published By: Harlequin
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5

Review:

 "Texas Wild" by Brenda Jackson another one of her romantic mystery Westmoreland's novel...another Texas, Colorado, Georgia and Montana Westmoreland Clan Saga...the continuation series...
 
This wonderful  romance was of:

Megan Westmoreland (heroine)...known as 'Iceberg Queen' (Megan)?...
She was a anesthesiologist who had hired Mr. Claiborne to  trace her  family roots...getting information about her great-grandfather(Raphael) and how many other Westmorelands could be out there.  She was a successful Doctor but Megan wasn't knowledgeable about sex...however, it didn't take her long to show that she was ...kissable, lovable...after she meets...Rico...now  will Megan learn other things about life?... Megan journeys to Forbe, Tx... What will they find out there...from Fanny Banks?...

Ricardo Claiborne(hero)...hot, irresistible, darn sexy, hot, steamy, wonderful kisser and passionate... He was a private investigator hired by Megan Westmoreland... Was this love at first sight...between these two?  Well, this is
where I say you must pick up "Texas Wild"  and read for yourself  to see where Ms. Jackson will take us on this wonderful read.

You will not be disappointed in another one of Ms. Jackson good  reads..."Texas Wild"  from the beginning till the end.  I was not disappointed ...Ms. Jackson always leaves us (her readers) wanting more. If you are looking for a intriguing hot steamy romantic read you have come to the right place and I would recommend this novel as a excellent read.

One Winter's Night & Risky Pleasures

Author: Brenda Jackson
Published By: Harlequin Desire
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 5



Review:

"One Winter's Night & Risky Pleasures (The Westmorelands) were two  stories...one a Westmoreland and the other a Steel.

"One Winter's Night"...
was one of romance...that was simply hot! ...even scorching!
...the area was in the Denver, Colorado
...the hero...Riley Westmoreland...one fine man, gentleman, sexy..omg!
   definitely any woman's dream...
   the heroine...Alpha Blake...sweet, fun, romantic and sexy &  cute
...Not wanting to give anything away...you must pick up this read
...you will not be disappointed.


"Risky Pleasures" ...
was one of romance too...
...the area was mainly from Jamaica
...story was simply good, funny, sexy hot and even steamy
...the hero...Cameron Cody...one fine brother...knew just what he
   wanted and how to go about achieving it...
   gentlemen, thoughtful and considerate...
...the heroine...Vanessa Steele...somewhat hard nosed... but loving,
   sexy... & cute
...Not wanting to give any thing away other than to way you must
   pick up the 2 for 1 read (bonus) to know all of the how, why, and
   what of  this  good read "One Winter's Night & Risky Pleasures.

Ms. Jackson again delivers two excellent romantic stories that only left me saying another good read that I would recommend to you. 

Ain't Too Proud to Beg

Author: Chicki Brown
Published By: Chickie Brown
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

Ms. Chicki Brown's "Ain't Too Proud to Beg" was indeed a awesome read and
once I picked it up and couldn't put it down until the last word...'to.'  Let me start by saying this is my fifth book I have read by the author...along with
Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing..I Can't Get Next to You...Hot Fun in the Summertime...(Hollywood Swinging)...Have you Seen Her?..and now presenting:  Ain't to Proud to Beg.. this last one being only another excellent read that only Ms.Brown can deliver to her readers.

The story is of Vaughn (V) Breland who was a 'Hollwood Film Star' and had been in a car accident(in his AJ) on his way to visit a friend in Colorado.... that made him immobile ...in that he had broken both legs, dislocated a hip and his face was 'jacked up."  What would happen for this famous film star?  It was only in God's hands who would be able to help V at this time in his life...but would he want it when it was delivered by (his friend) Craig...who had gotten a Physical Therapist...Trenyce Clark (TC) to help him(V) at his vacation home? Was this the same Physical Therapist from the hospital? At this point V thought of himself as one with no job, no ride(no AJ), someone else was living in his house and he looked like hell! In Vaugh's  life he had always been the center of  his world after that time with his Dad.... and definitely now he was a 'star.' It was about all the beautiful women and '_ _ _' had always come first!  What was happening to him?

Now Trenyce had her own set of problems in that she was single mom, with
a three year old (Zadra) that she was rearing this child all by herself due to
the fact that the birth father had not been around since conception. Why was this?  TC did have a good job at the Telluride Medical Center as a physical
therapist there in Colorado but her plate was loaded however, when  asked
by Craig who was also (her friend) to help this patient friend with physical
therapy at his vacation house...would she accept the job? And OMG who was now wanting to enter back into Trenyce life after all these years?

All of the characters in "Ain't Too Proud to Beg" were simple off the chart excellent....from Vaugh (V), Trenyce (TC), Jake, Dr. Liu, Zadra, Craig, Devon,
Brad, Penny, Shontoe, Sabrina, Harlowe, Graciela, Dr. Claudette Wells, Sharona, Mrs. Parker, Jennie Greitzer to Chip and I am sure I have left someone important out...now who is it?

Were things now changing for Vaugh in his feeling for women?...
He now wanted to help Trenyce... with her big problem...just what was going on?  He now found her to be "the most intelligent, family-oriented women he had ever met..and the most beautiful."

And for TC....she now thought of V as "smart, driven, proud...a little damaged,incredibly handsome and  more caring than she could ever imagined." Now, what was going on with her?

I know at this point you the reader of this review is asking: how, who, where and what is all of this novel about???  Well, this is where I say you must pick up Ms. Brown newest and awesome novel: "Ain't To Proud to Beg" to find out.
I believe you will enjoy this well written read and I believe all of you questions will be more than answered and have you all wondering is this all Ms. Brown?  Oh, well I guess we will have to wait to see.

Now, I am sure you will already know I would definitely recommend this excellent read...not because I am mentioned in the Praise for Chicki Brown's Books but because this is a good novel of two people coming together...
getting their problems not only solved but .... Oops! I had better stop.  But if I can add one more thing...who wasn't too proud to beg?   I can only say 'Thank you' Ms. Chicki Brown for some excellent writing.  It has been a pleasure to read your novels.

In Bed With a Highlander

Author: Maya Banks
Published By: Ballantine Books
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5

Review:

"In Bed With a Highlander" by Maya Banks was a good historical fiction and interesting  romance read. This was the beginning of a new highlander series by this author.  Only Ms. Banks can write these kind of novels that simply keep us on the edge of our seats.  All the characters were well presented and developed.
For Mairin (heroine) and Ewan (Laird) ...hero... were just off the  chart good. Let me not forget the two McCabe brothers(Alaric and Caelen) and (Ewan son)....Crispen. 

The novel was very enjoyable with enough tension and humor that simply couldn't put the novel  down until I had finished it. Only Ms. Banks can present such erotica...sex scenes that you just call romance that will keep your attention.   Be prepared for a lots of action packed, steamy and even a suspenseful read. I was kept guessing just what was going to happen next.  This is where I say you must pick up the well written novel and see what is in store for this highlander.

If you are looking for a good fantastic Scottish highlander romantic novel...you have come to the right place...for "In Bed With a Highlander" I would recommend this novel as a excellent read. 
 
 

Sunspots

Author: Karen S. Bell
Published By: K.S.B.
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5

Review:

Karen S. Bell's "Sunspots" was a Wow of a excellent fiction/ghost read.  I can only say that this was one of those novels I couldn't put down until finished with this well written novel. This is a story of Aurora Celeste Sunny Goldberg (Celeste Abbott).   How she could have all of those.... three first  names is a story within itself.   Aurora is born to wonderful parents that never married.  Being brought up in New York..she tries out for  acting and is also  works for a temp agency when Aurora meets Jake Stein...falls in  love ...follows 'her destiny' and becomes his lovely wife only to have to move to Austin, Texas...while giving up her acting career.   Aurora is so happy...she has her best friend..Jake however, this happiness would soon end..for her husband dies  suddenly (was it suicide or murder?) after only two years of marriage and leaves her in a world that would
only take her away...if he hadn't been for her mom, dear friend...Marina, Paul, Sophie, Thula,  Viola and Clif Chance Clifford Buckley..yes he has three name too...and that is another part of this wonderful story.    For this love of Jake had definitely  become 'an obession' of Aurora and would their be help for this poor soul?   Will Aurora be able to "accept her fate and the many  secrets that will be  revealed about Jakes' true character?"  For she had not only lost her husband(her best friend)  but herself...Aurora was no longer who she thought she was...Is she in a time travel... ghost?...or the past, present or future?  Who are these people Aurora is seeing?  What does Aurora's new home have to do with all of this?  Just who is Viola, Georgina, Clara, Max Stein, Gustav Jacobs and Constantina?

This novel offers up such characters that I would not want to leave out a few...such as Owen Burns..Jake's lawyer and his Owen's twin sister.. Charlotte
Burn Griffin, Vanessa, Margaret (Jake's sisters) and mom...Claudia.  Now, this is where I say to you that in order to know what, where, why and who ..you must pick up "Sunspots" for you will not be disappointed in seeing what is in the works for dear  Aurora.  Will she be able to  pick herself up and see that "The person who I had lost was not  Jake because I never really had him? ...It was me...I had lost myself  in the aura of Jake."  Aurora starts to  take charge  of her life and goes back to school to get her MBA but what will she find their? ....a professor, cowboy, rancher and just how does this help her?   I will stop here and let you read for yourself about this wonder read. 

"Sunspots" was indeed a wonderful well written novel that was intriguing
from the very beginning till the end.   It was definitely "a story of loss, redemption and ghosts" that did haunt the life of Aurora Celeste Sunny Goldberg.... and yes I would recommend this read as a excellent read. Thank you  Karen Bell for letting me read early... your novel:  "Sunspots."

Ain't Misbehaving

Author: Molly Cannon
Published By: Forever
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 5

Review:

"Ain't Misbehaving" by Molly Cannon was a good exciting wonderful contemporary read. I found "Ain't Misbehaving" a very believable plot,  with very realistic characters.  This novel presented a well written story of a  small town charm romance that was sexy  with a sense of humor.  I was left laughing
out loud while cheering for Marla Jean and Jake.   I found this novel one I could not put down. "They were a fun couple even if they were pretty stubborn about the ability for their romance to survive."  Well, this is where I say you must pick up "Ain't Misbehaving" to see just what all is going on in this good read that is "about love, second chances, forgiveness and definitely moving on." 


"Ain't Misbehaving" was one fun read that was a wonderful light hearted read with a happy ending...oops I am probably telling too much and  YES, I would recommend this novel as a excellent novel. 

Fifty Shames of Earl Grey

Author: Fanny Merkin & Andrew Shaffer
Published By: Da Capo Press
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4

Review:

"Fifty Shames of Earl Grey" by Fanny Merkin and Andrew Shaffer was some interesting read that truly kept me laughing all the way through this hilarious novel.  This was a definitely a story that I was found wondering just what craziness  this author(s) would bring on next.  Wow! It is my understanding that this is a parody in that these authors spoof  of the very popular 50 Shades
of Grey...where Mr. Earl Grey..was a corporate tycoon..a rich guy, that could buy anything..had  his own secrets or his "Fifty Shames."  Then there is  Anna Steal, a naive college student and Walmart cashier who meets Earl Grey..well this is where I say you must pick up this read.."Fifty Shames of Earl Grey" and just  maybe you will be smiling at some on this funny read. I know many
will say this is a ridiculous read  but just remember this is a parody and it is supposed to be funny..sort of like 'Airplane and Naked Gun.'   

These authors did a good job of taking these of the original book and completely creating other  scenarios and these could only put a smile on your face.


If you are looking for a good novel that pokes fun in all the right places then pick up "Fifty Shames of Earl Grey" for I would recommend to you as a good read.

Heads in Beds: A Reckless Memoir of Hotels, Hustles, and So-Called Hospitality

Author: Jacob Tomsky
Published By: Doubleday
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4

Review:

"Heads in Beds:A Reckless Memoir of Hotels, Hustles, and So-Called Hospitality" by Jacob Tomsky was quite a interesting memoir read especially for those of us who have travels and stayed in many hotel establishments. This author shared with the reader many laughs, a lots of repetition of anecdotes...with some
attitude and his personal life especially his hospitality experience.  You are able to follow him from New Orleans as valet.. got promoted to management ..then to work in many other roles within the industry.  Mr. Tomsky visit Europe but finally ends up in New York.  I felt that this author tells it all.."including the shortcuts the housekeepers take, the hustles the bellhops make, and what is required to motivate your front desk agent to give you a better room (hint: money)."

The essential points of the memoir aspect of this book are "A degree in
Philosophy was  useless for him.. working with the general public sucks, and bellhops make good money." A lot of this was humorous for the reader but when you think of it...couldn't   this be true?   Yes!  This was a quick read that was even humorous at times and let me mention that the language was a little offensive... however,  I still liked this novel and how this author felt about this job.  I definitely felt this novel can make you a lots smarter... for instance...I did learn a little more about the tipping of the desk clerk...hay...they can make your trip more enjoyable.  So, why not tip? I also enjoyed the two funny appendices "Things a Guest Should Never Do" and "Things Every Guest Must Know" which are an excellent way to close the book."  What is up with the 'crinkly handshake' that you give the doorman? I found out about tips on "how to get out of Movies, Mini bar, Upgraded Rooms, and the best one how to get out of a late cancellation without paying the cancellation fee." Now I am not saying you should do this but....    This is where I say you must pick up this novel and  you can get a real awareness of what goes on inside the hotel hospitality system.

With that being said, Yes, I would really recommend "Heads in Beds: A Reckless
Memoir of Hotels, Hustles, and So-Called Hospitality" as a good read.  If you

are looking for a funny read with a lot of interesting experience ....you have come to the right  place.  Now..... let me also say:  This is a ADULT READ...due to its language.

Lake Country

Author: Sean Doolittle
Published By: Batam
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4

Review:

Sean Doolittle's novel "Lake Country" was quite a thriller read that would keep you turning the pages until the end.   If you are a 'Doolittle' fan you will not be disappointed with this read.  This story line will present a good dose of tension and many twist and turns along the way.  The setting of this story takes place in Minnesota with beautiful lakes and down to earth good people representing the state.  This novel deals with characters  from  "ex-Marines, a TV reporter, barkeeper, the family of the man who killed the girl... to the mother of the victim."  "Lake Country" begins..."as a successful architect Wade Benson...with a lovely daughter, wife, and a beautiful home goes to prison for a weekend. Why?  He had been sentenced to two days in jail for every year of his five-year probation. This is his last weekend in jail for falling asleep at the wheel and killing a young woman driving the car he hit head on. No alcohol, no drugs, just fell asleep."  Now, who wouldn't be upset a such a light sentence that was
handed down?  Would someone be over the top upset with this verdict?  Now
what would these ex-Marines...dealing unsuccessful with PTST and drinking problems  deal with this...especially Darryl Potter?  This is where I will say you must pick up "Lake Country" to see just what tragedy would come of this situation.

The author Sean Doolittle has layed it all out for the reader because you already will know from the read who had done it but still how this will end will be a story within itself presenting only a good mystery with lots of tension with its fast-paced action. 

If you are looking for a good well written thriller you have come to the right place for "Lake Country" would recommend this novel as a good read. 

A Dangerous Inheritance

Author: Alison Weir
Published By: Hutchinson
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4

Review:

"A Dangerous Inheritance" by Alison Weir was a good historical fiction novel during the York/Tudor period. You will find two narrators in this novel: Kate Plantagenet, this story was told in third person and Lady Katherine Grey, who was the sister of  Jane Grey and also cousin to Queen Elizabeth. This was told in
first person.  This maybe a little  bit confusing if you don't keep up in the read but other than than I found this novel easy to understand even though the novel flips between the two Katherine's...separated by eighty years.  I found each of these two stories that went well together...like each of the  girls will be too close to the throne to ever find what they both wanted and that was safety and happiness. You will get captured up in the read that will keep you turning the pages to see what is going to happen next.

This author Alison Weir did a wonderful good job in her writing and weaving
these two (Katherine's)lives together.  Both of these women will be "driven by love rather than their desire for power."  All of the characters are well developed and this presents a good well written historical read from Lady Katherine Grey, Lady Jane's younger sister; Kate Plantagenet, Edward, Richard, Richard III to a
few others that you can only get from picking up this good read.  Be ready because there is a lots going on in this read and sometimes it seems somewhat a complicated history with are of its "turn of phrases and choices of scenes." 

However, if you are a lover of historical fiction...I would recommend this novel "A Dangerous Inheritance" to you as a good read. 

Unstoppable: Surviving Is Just The Beginning

Author: Gigi Stetler
Published By: JAS Literary Publishing
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 5

Review:

"Unstoppable: Surviving Is Just The Beginning" by Gigi Stetler was a true non fiction...that was a excellent novel that Ms.Gigi Stetler delivered that only left me saying OMG that was a read that I will not ever forget. As I read this novel I was made to feel very sad for all this individual (Gigi) had to go through, however as I continued reading "Unstoppable" I realized how this person was a winner because whatever she had gone through... even with her own mom being mean to her and her brother and that story of the knife cutting incident ..wow..all I can say is that she did not give up! This girl had dreams and wanted to be a millionaire. Gigi loved horses as a child and she was so smart in other things that only made her be a winner. Even going through the crime that she had to pay for only made her a stronger person. Some of her friends, and let's not leave our her dear mom...that was anything other than dear...were not there for her but Gigi seemed to also have someone that was their to help her making her 'Unstoppable' and yes a survivor. I don't want to give any of this excellent read away because I want to get this novel: "Unstoppable: Surviving Is Just The Beginning." You will see what all this individual had to go through would only making this person ..."Gigi Stetler a complex and inspirational woman -- a single mother that didn't finish the tenth grade who became a queen of the male-dominated RV industry, presiding over the $18 million a year RV Sales of Broward as the first female founder or owner of an RV dealership in the country; she has redefined the climate of the RV industry. A Motivational Speaker, Author, Entrepreneur, Business-woman, Accomplished Equestrian, Designer and Life Coach, Gigi has become an inspiration to women everywhere." I do not think you will be disappointed with the read.


I liked Gigi's saying .... it's better to be here that not here... even after many horrible things that had happened to her. This novel is definitely one that let its reader know that if you want to survive....you can... for Gigi Stetler did. Would I recommend this read ?...YES...if you want to see how some one that was in poverty with all odds  against her makes it... Yes, Gigi Stetler was 'Unstoppable' and most definitely a survivor!

The Last Good Man

Author: Kathleen Eagle
Published By: William Morrow and Company
Age Recommended:  Adult
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 5

Review:

Kathleen Eagle's "The Last Good Man" was one good  powerful novel  that I have read on this subject in quite a while. I thought this author did a good job in handling the subject of breast cancer and even how the horses were brought into this storyline. The story consist of a woman(Savannah Stephens) who was a former model, recovering recovering from breast cancer surgery and treatment and how, what and why life went for her after she returned to her hometown in Sunbonnet, Wyoming  with her daughter(Claudia).

In this read there was also a love story that will unfold of how Clay had loved Savannah since they were teens. Clay was a very wonderful,  caring and protective man.  Will Savannah and Clay be able to come to terms with all the changes that have gone on in their lives now that she has returned home? This is where I say you  must pick up this read "The Last Good Man" to find out!

The characters were all likable...starting with Savannah, Clay, Aunt Billie, Kole, Heather to Claudia...only naming a few that did present a wonderful read.


"The Last Good Man" was a good read that gives a good view into the life of a woman who was going through breast cancer.  I didn't find this a page turner but indeed a good read that I would recommend.