Just Between Us: Inspiring Stories By Women By: Authors: Selena Haskins, Christy Thomas, Adrienne Thompson, Janice Ross, Nicole Dunkap, & T.M. Brown

Title:  Just Between Us:  Inspiring Stories By Women
Authors:  Selena Haskins, TM Brown, Janice Ross, Nicole Dunlap, Tamika Christy & Adrienne          Thompson
Publisher:  Calidream Publishing Company
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  5
Review:

Just Between Us: Inspiring Stories By Women by a host of wonderful authors....

"Just Between US there is a determination to reminisce and reveal all that once crippled our lives. You are invited to share in this short story collection of TM Brown, Tamika Christy, Nicole Dunlap, Selena Haskins, Janice Ross and Adrienne Thompson. These stories are all real, no work of fiction can match the emotional expressions displayed in this heartfelt collection of inspirational stories."

What I enjoyed from this novel....

I enjoyed reading from these six good author's... their version of 'Life.'    They all really had some inspiring short stories about their personal and important moment in their lives that were a good encouragement to all who reads for it. Be ready for a stories  of "self doubt, challenges and disappointments." 

 I found each author anthology  had its own unique and personal message with such a deep lesson that was learned from their own particular  lives.  Each ones life's weren't perfect but they were able to rise above it all so well....and look at them now definitely having over come   the odds.   I believe each of these author showed that they wrote from their heart with each  intimate story showing such emotions that can be conquered.  These are definitely stories that can be related and pass on to others who are dealing with such issues such as 'hardships, love, conflict, loss, redemption and the salvation through God's healing love."   

What I especially like from this novel ....

I liked how these authors were able to share with their readers about such details that will help others that were definitely written with love showing us your openness and honesty.   Great job to all of you! 

Here are the six short story titles by these authors...

Mirror Don't Lie- Selena Haskins
For the Love of Your-Tamika Christy
Epiphany-Adrienne Thompson
Love Letters to Jahdai- Janice Ross
Falling for the One-Nichole Dunlap
Tinaah-T.M. Brown

I recommend you pick us this read "Just Between Us: Inspiring Stories by Women.

A Man's Promise By: Brenda Jackson

 

Title: A Man's Promise
Author: Brenda Jackson
Publisher: Harlequin MIRA
Series: Granger #2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"A Man's Promise" by Brenda Jackson...

"A man's word is his bond. His family is his strength. His heart is his own.

Superstar musician Caden Granger has spent years running from love, commitment and family. Yet despite his fame and fortune, he knows the kind of respect and adoration he needs can only come from one person—the very woman who wants nothing to do with him.

Corporate fund-raiser and society maven Shiloh Timmons finally got her life on track once her relationship with Caden ended, and she's in no hurry to revisit a romance with the man she left standing at the altar.

If Caden can't have Shiloh by his side, all the success in the world will mean nothing. Now he has a chance to renew his promises…but is it too late?"

What I enjoyed about the read...

I loved it and found it a continuation of the first series...'A Brother's Honor.' I would definitely suggest you read the first series to truly understand what is going on in the second series. "A Man's Promise" was mainly of Caden Granger and Shiloh Timmons love story and it was a real interesting one that will bring to us 'lies, misunderstandings, secrets hurt and betrayal.' Now add some mystery, suspense, romance, drama and conspiracy into all of that and you have one amazing story that just keep on going into the next series. ..Dalton's story. I don't want to give too much away just know that the Granger brothers...Jace, Caden and Dalton will give you a such a intensed read from start to finish. By picking up 'A Man's Promise' you will find that this author has done a excellent job giving us a well written novel from start to finish with all of its twist and turns. The characters were all simply off the chart ...well wait a moment...their were a few to shake you head at...but mostly all were well developed, well portrayed, colorful and so believable only helping to give the reader a well attention grabber and oh yes I loved that ending...a cliffhanger. This was very well done. The only thing left to say is I will be waiting for the next series.. about Dalton and I am sure there will be even more for us... unlocking and tying it all together in this who, what, when and why of it all in this last series.

The Crazy Hood Love Story: Rock City By K'Aliyah Knight

Title:  A Crazy Hood Love Story
Author:  K'Aliyah Knight
Publisher: Alana's Book Line
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"The Crazy Hood Love Story" by K'Aliyah Knight....


"If you hustle, hustle harder. If you love, love harder. What if the one you love is changing because of the hustle?

17 year old Rockwell can get whateva she wants. Her uncle Marcel got the city on lock. Dudes in the hood treat her with respect out of loyalty or fear of Marcel. Poppin tags and all, Rockwell still doesn’t have the one thing she wants the most. Rico.

Have you ever loved someone so much that you don’t care if dude is crazy? Your heart beats for him. Somewhere in the back of ya mind you know ish won’t work out but you gotta have him. Rico is the type of dude a chick could get lost on and that makes Rockwell wants him even more. Then a new guy steps in her sights. Now she knows messing around on Rico is worse than defying Marcel, but the chick can’t help it. Step into Rock City with this beautiful, naive diva and get caught up in this crazy hood love."

What I Understood from "The Crazy Hood Love Story"...

I will say for me I had a hard time keeping up in the beginning of just what all was going on, with it all ....however, as I continued it did come together enough to  keep my attention  that did turn out to be quite a interesting read.  Wow, there was so much going on that you will driven to finish reading non stop after you start.   And that ending...Wow!  I was left feeling  a  little sorry for Rockwell being a hustler and had nothing going for her but money and love.   Was this sort of a love triangle...didn't she really  know what she wanted?  I did like how the author was able to bring in the different dynamics of the characters that really kept me turning the pages to see what twists were  going to happen next.  With that being said and not wanting to give any of this away,  I would only recommend that you pick up this read and see for yourself how this author has delivered  it to all  the reader  in "The Crazy Hood Love Story:  Rock City." 

The Girl Upstairs By: Maree Caleste

Title: The Girl Upstairs
Author:  Maree Caleste
Publisher:  Libertine Press/GMTA Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena  Dean
Genre: Gothic Erotica
Rating: 4
Review:

"The Girl Upstairs" by Maree Caleste....

"Michael is an average, unassuming sort of fellow no one would especially take any notice of. He works hard at his dead-end office job and goes home alone to a shared house filled with eccentric oddities all of whom have far more exciting lives than him. Each night he is forced to listen to the passionate, tumultuous and often thunderous exploits of the girl upstairs.

Crystal lives directly above Michael. She is a Gothic vixen; a nymphomaniac. She is quite possibly the most incredible girl he has ever seen and he ‘fancies the pants off her’, except Crystal seems oblivious to Michael and his lustrous desires. Michael cannot escape her sordid escapades and is often close enough to hear every groan and whimper. But if he can’t have her is it enough to hear her ‘being had’?"

What I Understood from this novel....

"The Girl Upstairs"  was simply that...'The Girl Upstairs.'  When I first started reading this novel I kept wondering ...what it the world was going on...sex...sex and more sex?  Was everyone having sex but Michael and was he feeling left out? Then the question that came to my mind was ...why was that?  Was there something wrong with Michael?   As I continued on reading  I began to see...I think what this author was trying to convey to the reader in the end ...taking the long way around to it that Michael  has possibility found the girl and guess where she was found.... upstairs. However, we will see that it wasn't who Michael had longed for.  It seemed like....from quote:

"He spent every piece of energy he had, every fibre in his body and every breath he passed trying to figure out how to get Natalie to love him and how to get Crystal to notice him."

When it was all said and done Michael had finally found someone "who was happy to sit and talk with him."  Yes, she was there....all the time...with her "extravagant tattoo printed on her lower back that did not seem in keeping with her outward appearance; a tribal design of unknown  origin surrounded in what he assumed were  floating skulls and crystals."  ...and guess what she really loved talking to Michael.

I will say this was a different kind of  'gothic erotica' read for me to read but if you read it to the end   ....you will be  able to understand it and yet I still was lead to say...poor Michael!   I found the characters all a very interesting group of people ...from Michael, Crystal, Natalie, Kimberly, Wayne, Valerie, David Rachel, Suki, Anton, Graham, John to  Bernie all simply leaving you saying wow!   From all of the above I would have to say in the end it was quite a  interesting read. 

Jumping Ship (Island Hopping Series) By: Janice Ross

Title:  Jumping Ship
Author:  Janice Ross
Publisher: Createspace
Series:  Island Hopping Series #1
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  5
Review:

"Jumping Ship" by Janice Ross.....

JUMPING SHIP: AN INTRODUCTORY NOVELLA

"The year was nineteen seventy-five. Barren couple, Pearl and Edward Riley stumbled upon a newborn baby girl. Her cries could only be heard by a true mother, which Pearl immediately became. Bundled up with their new child, they discovered a parcel of artifacts and a scribbled note that read: Sakkara. Pregnant seamstress, Petrina Dugal, became a runaway at the age of twenty-six. She ran away from a brutish husband, Roger, and a well-loved South American home in Georgetown, Guyana; at the heart of her rebellion – an enigmatic lover named Michael Chen. Pet and Mikey, as they became affectionately known, allowed love to blossom in front of her police officer husband and an intrusive community. Were they not aware of the dangers? Or did the pursuit of love trump obligations?

Sakkara Riley grew up with two loving parents – adoptive parents to be exact. She never knew the circumstances surrounding her discovery, until the age of sixteen. She embarks on a journey.

Jumping Ship is an introductory novella to the Island Hopping Series. There are 7 planned books - representing each of the islands that Sakkara will visit along the way."

What I liked About "Jumping Ship"....

I found "Jumping Ship" a very good read that once you start it you will find it hard to put down.  I loved how this author was able to pull her readers into the story and more over connect them with the characters.  Also you can tell that this author really loved this country because of all the detailed  description of it all near the Caribbean area as she brings us a good read.  This was a love story with lots of mystery...as we follow a married woman and her lover and since this is a beginning of a series I am sure we will get a lots more.  This is quite a read of a woman's strength in how she had dealt 'with an abusive husband, self awareness and love.'  I will say that that part of the read was not pretty
but then Petrina meets Mikey.  I don't want to give any of it away and spoil it for you...Just pick up this amazing read to see for yourself how this author brings it all so well to the readers.    There seems to be three parts to this story where you will see it all told with  such a intriguing captivating way as the story  unfolds.  If you are looking for a good romance novel you have come to the right place for "Jumping Ship" will give  you in a well written heart warming love story that start this series.  

Church Gurlz' III [The Aftermath] By: H.H. Fowler

Title:  Church Gurlz III 
Author:  H.H. Fowler
Publisher:  More Wind, More Fire Publishing
Series: The Aftermath
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Church Gurlz III" by H.H. Fowler...

"Doreen Lakatos is six feet in her grave, but there is a new sheriff in town. Mother Veronica Stephens, newly appointed Women's pastor of Brandon View International Church, is a self-righteous bigot who goes after the inheritance of the Lakatos men. She is sharp, determined and willing to do anything to create the biggest scandal in Church history.

Jasmine Benton-Fowler, former love interest of both Lakatos brothers, is back in town for a joyous event. However, something tragic happens, which forces Jasmine to stay in town longer than she is welcomed. Her stubbornness to leave, makes room for the devil to move in.

In Church Gurlz 3 (The Aftermath), the message of forgiveness and hope rings loud and clear. If your father had killed your mother, or if your mother, for thirty years had lied to you about who your real father is, would you be willing to forgive and forget? A test of true character is unraveled in a surprising twist."


What I enjoyed from the read....

This was another good enjoyable  series and the last one for this author.  I found it a well written read that would keep your attention.   The novel was a good ending to such a wonderful series. This author brings to the reader to a relationship of Wynton, Jasmine Brian which was beautifully done.  It was interesting seeing when it seems like all may be going good the devil will  shows up through 'Church folks full of lies, deceits, sex, adoption,  theft and entitlement.'  The story has some twist that you will be found shaking your head wondering what is next?   Be ready for a interesting and suspenseful read with a lots of twist and turns keeping you guessing.  The stories from this series really come to life and how this author was able to eventually bring it all out to the readers.  'Church Gurtz III' showed 'unforgiveness, and forgiveness' at the lowest and highest point and giving the reader a truly shocking ending.

Church Gurlz' II [In The Presence of My Enemy] By H.H. Fowler

Title:  Church Gurlz' II 
Author: H.H. Fowler
Publisher:  More Wind, More Fire Publishing
Series: [In The Presence Of My Enemy]
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Church Gurlz' II" by H.H. Fowler...

"The manipulation continues as Doreen Lakatos releases her deadly venom against Tara, her son's fiancée, who tries to blackmail Doreen about a secret Tara has stumbled upon. But Doreen refuses to be backed into a corner. She knows some of Tara's secrets, too. Both women fight to the bitter end, as they realize that they both have something precious to lose. Who will end up as the one on top?

Jasmine, daughter of one of the richest men in real estate, is going after happiness, which she hopes to find with one of the Lakatos men. Will it be with Wynton or with Brian? But with Doreen in the mix, Jasmine soon discovers that her choice will not be so easy.

Marcia Gippings, the blind beauty, appears to have moved on from her "obsession" with Brian, but something happens that pulls her attention front and center for a man that she’s loved from the first day she met him. Will her life ever be the same?

In the Presence of my Enemy, is filled with lies, secrets, murder, and classic blackmail. Those whom you love the most, seem to hurt you the most!"


What I enjoyed from this read....

The novel was the second in the 'Church Gurlz's series and indeed it was a good read just like the first one  that will get and keep your attention all the way through the story.  If you like suspense then you have come to the right place because I was in awe of it all finding myself even holding my breath a little until I got through that part of the read where I was lead to go from angry, sad and then happy to back a forth depending on what the situation issue was.

The characters were mostly all continued from the first series and were all well defined, developed, colorful and believable.  Some of the characters you will fall in love with while their will be some that you will not like. Be ready for a interesting read where there will be much drama that will add to the intensiveness of this emotional read.  Even though this series gave the reader a ending, I a still looking forward to the third and last series of 'Church Gurtz III.''  What will this author add to this next series?   I found when that  author has written another amazing Christian story that I would recommend. 

Church Gurlz' Book 1 [Mother's Black Book] By H.H. Fowler

Title:  Church Gurlz' Book 1 
Author:  H.H. Fowler
Publisher:  H.H.F.
Series:  [Mother's Black Book]
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Church Gurlz' 1" by H.H. Fowler...

"How does it feel to be treated like dirt beneath someone’s shoes? Or no matter how hard you push to get into someone’s good graces, you are continuously batted away as if you are an irritant pest? Ask Tara Lamont, hairstylist and fiancée to Wynton Lakatos – who struggles hard against the burgeoning attacks of Wynton’s mother, Doreen Lakatos. Doreen is no pushover. She might be the First Lady of Brandon View Baptist Church, but like most mothers she wants the best for her children. To Doreen, that means Tara is not good enough for Wynton, and that she will stop at nothing until she kicks Tara as far as she can -- out of Wynton’s life.

Jasmine Benton – daughter of real estate tycoon, Karl Benton – knows what it’s like to be ‘listed’ in “Mother’s Black Book”. Her past connection with Wynton created bad blood between Doreen and Jasmine’s mother, which ultimately led to Jasmine being ‘deployed’ to a different city for twelve years. But something tragic occurs that brings Jasmine back to face her past. How will she fare under the ‘new’ rules of the game?

Then finally, Marcia Gippings – the blind beauty, who met Doreen’s other son, Brian, on a dating website. Marcia is determined to make her heart’s desires a reality. Brian Lakatos – the man of her dreams – is a dashing gentleman, but when it comes to choosing a wife, Brian is extremely selective. Marcia is blind. Will he choose her, or not?

Four women – each desperately want something, but how far will they go before they realize that life is never exactly the way that one imagines?"


What I liked from this series....

"Church Gurtz'1" was indeed a good read however, that cliffhanger?  Oh, well I will be picking up the next series because this story line will keep you turning the pages to see what is going to happen next! I will say you will have to pick up the next series to see how this will end.   There will be a lots going on in 'Church Gurtz' 1"  read so you will have to keep up...like several stories going on at the same time that are so full with intensed drama.  Be ready for a read with some of it all...romance, miscarriage, deceit,  murder, infidelity to church people faith challenged .... all out there.  This is one intriguing read that has been well written by this author that I would recommend to you. 

Dreams That Won't Let Go By: Stacy Hawkins Adams

Title:  Dreams That Won't Let Go
Author:  Stacy Hawkins Adams
Publisher:  Fleming H. Revall Company
Series:  Jubilant Soul #3
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  5
Review:

"Dreams That Won't Let Go"  by Stacy Hawkins Adams ....

"Indigo Burns is excited. Her wedding preparations to the man of her dreams are under way, her career as a photographer is a success, and her family seems to be doing better than ever - all except her brother Reuben who nobody has seen in years. But that's about to change, because Reuben has decided to move back home to Jubilant, Texas."


What I liked about "Dreams That Won't Let Go"

This is a beautiful and enjoyable series that I have loved reading...a journey with the Burns family. I liked how this author brought out to the readers that a  family's with  hidden secrets can almost destroyed relationships.  "Dreams That Won't Let Go" is a very inspirational  read that was about 'real life circumstances' that occur in our everyday life that will  deals with love, grief and family issues.  This will  definitely be a read of 'emotional intensity' with some twist that will keep you turning the pages.  The characters: Reuben, Indigo, Yasmin, Peyton, Max, Pastor Taylor...to name a few were all well developed and very believable...only giving you one amazing read. 

The Someday List By Stacy Hawkins Adams

Title:  The Someday List
Author:  Stacy Hawkins Adams
Publisher:  Fleming H. Revell Company
Series:  Jubilant Soul Book 1
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"The Someday List" by Stacy Hawkins Adams...

"Rachelle Covington has it all. A fabulous home, a handsome and prestigious husband, two beautiful children, and a place in the upper crust that's quite comfortable. But her life is not all it's cracked up to be. When her husband goes away on business trip and the kids are sent off to the grandparents for a month, Rachelle takes up the challenge of a dying friend to start a list of things to do before she dies. She heads back to Jubilant, Texas, to reconnect with her past, her purpose, and herself. But when her ex shows up in town looking very fine and very single, Rachelle must confront feelings she thought she'd long buried. Will she give up everything to recover the past? Or will she find a reason to plan for the future?
"The Someday List" is an honest look at what makes us who we are and what can throw us off track. Author Stacy Hawkins Adams writes with a voice that is fresh, sincere, and completely real. Her characters jump off the page and into her readers' hearts."

What I enjoyed from the read...

I found this novel one awesome  Christian Fiction read.  The characters...Rachelle, Gabe, Aunt Irene, Aunt Melba, Uncle Charles, Troy to name a few were all very interesting people...being well developed, defined, colorful and believable giving this story a worth while read. I found myself really being caught up in the read where I was able to laugh, tear up, liked some of the character, didn't care much of a few other characters but in the end coming to drip with it all...it was a good read. Now, I must say even though it was a good read it wasn't a 'easy read' for me due to the subject content...marriage issues.   

I loved how this author brought to the reader of a  'Someday List.'  It really made me stop and think about  my own life  long after this riveting read.  Be ready for a plot that will have many twist and turns of a read about 'life, faith, relationships, marriage and family.'  Would I recommend?  YES!

Unholy Romance: A Christian Wife's Infidelity and Emotional Affairs Leads to Sandal in an African American Church By Emerald Woods

Title:  Unholy Romance: A Christian Wife's Infidelity and Emotional Affairs Leads to Sandal in an African American Church
Author:  Emerald Woods
Publisher:  Lomor Internet Ventures, LLC
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"Unholy Romance: A Christian Wife's Infidelity and Emotional Affairs Leads to Sandal in an African American Church  by Emerald Woods.....

“How Did I Get Here?”

"That eventually became the question I was able to ask God and myself in the crushing days that followed my getting kicked out of my beloved church (for reasons I detail for you inside).

After all, I had a lot more time to follow the biblical admonitions to “consider your ways” and “come, let us reason together” now that my days were no longer filled with running to church meetings, buying batteries to place inside cordless microphones (I worked for the Technology Team of the church), working out like a demon and curling my weave to get ready and all prettied-up to see my “church husband” Kevin (as in - not my real husband).

In the days, weeks and months that followed my own personal D-day - the day I got kicked out - I was able to look back on my life to my thought patterns surrounding adultery - adultery as part of my family growing up, all throughout my first failed marriage, and into my current marriage with David, a beautiful man whom I’ve been with for nearly 20 years.

What came forth was a clearer picture of the reasons why I, as a 41-year-old woman, nearly ruined my life with what could have devolved from an emotional affair with Kevin - the "church husband" - into a disastrous adulterous physical affair – which sadly, my past is no stranger to.

Learning the following lessons helped me appreciate just how much tragedy God saved me from experiencing, and confirmed a few wrong choices that I never want to make again in life.

I knew while writing this book that many readers will make judgments about me and my life's decisions, and that's ok. But here’s hoping my story – including the screw-ups and the redemption – helps you as well.

Join me on my journey while I detail for you my dirty laundry, and how God finally cleaned it up for me."

What I got from this read....

This read..."Unholy Romance: A Christian Wife's Infidelity and Emotional Affairs Leads to Scandal in an African American Church" ... was some amazing true story that I enjoyed completely.  The author really gives the reader a read that will hold your attention. I find  this read for anyone who has gone through this type of situation will be able to identify very easily with  all that is going on from the read.  I love the way this author delivered this novel to the reader showing ... 'the emotional affair to a adulterous physical affair.' Wow, what was even greater from the read was the lessons learned from the affairs to finally getting on the right path where you can see how "God finally cleanses  her  after all she was involved in.  This was indeed a good  story and definitely a lesson learned.

On The Way To A Wedding By Suzanne Stengl

Title:  On The Way To A Wedding
By:  Suzanne Stengl
Publisher:  Myra and Angus
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"On The Way To A Wedding" by Suzanne Stengl ...

"Ryder O’Callaghan finds Toria Whitney on the side of a forest road with a totaled car, a sprained ankle, and a wedding dress. Both Ryder and Toria are scheduled to be married in three weeks—but not to each other.

Deep down inside, Ryder longs for the freedom and simple honesty of a less complicated life, but his pride has him hell bent on proving a point to his father. He’s building an estate home and marrying the sophisticated, elegant woman he’s chosen for his fiancée.

Confident in his conviction that love is overrated, Ryder is determined to make the lukewarm relationship work, so he denies his surprising fascination for his roadside damsel in distress.

Toria is running scared. She has called off her wedding to her parents’ idea of the perfect husband, and she needs time and space to discover what she really wants. The last thing she needs to complicate her life is the overwhelming attraction she feels for Ryder.

But sometimes love arrives in the most unexpected places."

What I enjoyed from the read....

"On the Way to a Wedding" was a beautifully written story in that once you start reading it you will have a hard time putting it down until the very end.  I found from the read that Ryder and Toria meet under very unusual circumstances that were very real and you could  even be sympathetic with.
I  think that this author did a good job with her presentation  of building this read that was a little predictable.  The  characters: Toria, Ryder, Pro, Isabelle, Greg, Catherine only naming a  few and in the end the reader is given a delightful romantic read.  Sometimes Toria did get on my nerves for not standing up for herself, however,  she later did!  Who would have thought that from two individuals meeting of the back roads on a stormy night...to me married in three weeks (NOT WITH EACH OTHER) and the drama pressures that are given to them by their 'high strung fiancées' where their whole  life would change so much for them in the end.  I don't want to tell too much more....pick up this good read and see for yourself just how this author conveys it all to the readers. Be ready for a  read that will have you laughing out loud from some of it only helping to give you a good, cute, and fun read.   

The Beautiful Dead By Daryl Banner

Title:  The Beautiful Dead
Author:  Daryl Banner
Publisher:  Createspace
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4.5
Review:

"The Beautiful Dead" by Darryl Banner...

"She’s dead.

In fact, the whole world’s dead. Every single person, apparently. Unburied and reimagined into a beautiful living-dead woman called Winter, she is doomed to spend the rest of eternity in a quaint, peaceful city with no hunger, no sickness and no bills to pay. Her Second Life is perfect in every way possible.

So why is she so bent on destroying it all?

After angering the mayor, befriending rebel headless teenagers and igniting romance with a dark and brooding neighbor, she finds herself wrestling madly with a First Life she cannot remember and this Second Life she cannot accept. Not to mention the maniacal army of rotting corpses who want her dead. Again.

But none of that matters in comparison to an even worse problem. There’s a guest in her house. A rude, good-looking man on the run ... a man with a heartbeat."


What I Understood From "The Beautiful Dead"

It's a gruesome horror with zombies!  Now, that scared me...because this is not my kind of genre that I favor however, since I do read them ALL, I thought to myself why not!  Well, I must say this author really knows how to write something that is  a very crazy fantasy zombies  and still make it into a good read.   You will be able to tell that this author has a dark, sarcastic sense of humor that will cause you to laugh at its  humor in it that goes throughout  the read.  I did like the fact that this wasn't too  predictable of a  book because  when I thought maybe I had it all figured out there would be another twist so, I decided to go with the flow of the read to see what was going to happen next with Winter in this scary read. The characters  I will say had some unique qualities...wow ...going from ones maybe I liked, hated, some being strong, while others were fake, and disgusting...then  their were some that  did show a little more compassion while their were others who were downright horrible. In the end of all of this characterization I will say you will have to read it for yourself and see what all this author has delivered to the reader.  That part I will say will be most  intriguing about this read.  The quotes in the read were very interesting which did add to my attention of the read.  By the time I had made it to the end of the read I thought that was a well written unique novel that will leave you with a thought provoking read. So, now I am left thinking not all horror reads are bad?

If you like urban fantasy, horror and zombies then "The Beautiful Dead" would definitely be a recommended read for you.  You will find this  author did write a beautiful and intense read with some genuine characters where it all comes together giving you a read with  humor along with darkness and beauty.   

The Other Side of Divine (Blessed Trinity) By Vanessa Davis Griggs

Title: The Other Side of Divine
Author:  Vanessa Davis Griggs
Publisher: Dafina
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"The Other Side of Divine" by Vanessa Davis Griggs


"Full of crazy church politics and a huge cast, Griggs keeps this on-going story alive by addressing the challenges of living by Biblical rules with homespun humor." --Publishers Weekly Paris Simmons-Holyfield is finally pregnant with the baby she's dreamed of for so long. There's just one complication: she's not sure who the father is. Apparently, after a night of drinking with her ex-coworker and ally Darius Connors, it could be him. Considering her husband's track record, chances are it is. Still, Paris prays it's not Darius, and decides to keep quiet about her worries. Especially because Darius isn't ready to give up on his crumbling marriage...

Meanwhile, after a battle to keep her adopted daughter and an ugly confrontation with Paris's family, Gabrielle Mercedes has finally found love and happiness. But when her father shows up, paroled from prison, she fears she's in for another round of trouble. As all three navigate the path from sin to redemption, can they forgive their way to the other side?"


What I enjoyed about "The Other Side of Divine"....


This was another great read from this author...which was a continuation of 'The Other Side of Dare' novel and with the ending of this novel gives us a good ending.  The characters... Gabrielle,  Miss
Crowe along with many others really gave this series  and us the readers a wonderful amazing read. 
I loved how this author gives the reader a knowledgeable scripture before each   chapter only  delivering to her readers a wonderful novel that give us the 'Word of God' ... through 'Strongholds, forgiveness, faithfulness, resisting temptation to love  dedication  and respect.' 

I would like to thank this author for such a wonderful spiritual read.

The Other Side of Dare By: Vanessa Davis Griggs

 Title:  The Other Side of Dare
Author:  Vanessa Davis Griggs
Publisher: Dafina
Series:  The Blessed Trinity Series #8
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"The Other Side of Dare by Vanessa Davis Griggs


In a powerful new inspirational novel in the Blessed Trinity series, the award-winning author of "Redeeming Waters" weaves the compelling story of a family threatened by a shocking secret.


What I truly enjoyed from the read: The Other Side of Dare...

This was another one of this author's great Christian  novels.  It holds to the saying:  " that what is done in the dark will come to light."  I found this read so interesting that once I started reading I couldn't put it down until the end.  Finding someone at their end but being able to turn your life around was truly part of this good read that was truly enjoyable.

This author writes so well of the reality of what can go on a 'todays church's'  that will leaves  you spell bound in the world that we live in today and are  called Christians.  I was definitely left saying wow...'Blessed Trinity' it is!

Destiny Unlimited By: Vanessa Davis Griggs

 
Title:  Destiny Unlimited
Author:  Vanessa Davis Griggs
Publisher: Free To Soar
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Destiny Unlimited" by Vanessa Davis Griggs...

"Fiction filled with adventure as well as powerfully subtle lessons and messages. It is like the "Wizard of Oz" in modern day linking up with success gurus to form an awesome orchestra of Og Mandino, Les Brown, Anthony Robbins, Deepak Chopra, Dennis Kimbro all being conducted by Iyanla Vanzant! Characters with such names as Countryman Full Of, Flo River, Captain Pye in the Sky, Brother Mic, etc., leave lasting impressions as do the main characters of the story: eleven-year-old Amethyst and the sage "Miss Jamahri."

What I loved about "Destiny Unlimited"....

I found "Destiny Unlimited" was an amazing  powerful read for all ages.  I found this novel   inspirational, captivating,  even humorous and encouragement all through the read,    especially in not giving up. This was a good story of a journey of Amethyst Destiny Price...learning the lessons of life...power of words, thoughts as well as the seeds of knowledge that will leave you wanting to get focused on what really matter in our daily lives. 

"Destiny Unlimited" is one read that will keep you engrossed and attentive through the whole read that will inspire and  motivate you to truly make a difference in your life. 

Redeeming Waters By: Vanessa Davis Griggs

Title:  Redeeming Waters
Author:  Vanessa Davis Griggs
Publisher: Kensington Publishing Corporation
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating 4.5
Review:

"Redeeming Waters" by Vanessa Davis Griggs.....

"Brianna is 10 years old when she first meets 25-year-old David R. Shepherd, a devout and gifted gospel recording artist who ultimately becomes world renowned megastar, King d.Avid. He leaves an impression on Brianna she will never forget. And they are destined to meet again."

What I enjoy from reading "Redeeming Waters"...was how this author featured this story around
David and Bathesba in a new and very interesting way. There will be a twist on this storyline
as well as some lessons that will be learned as this author gets to the point in the amazing read.  This will be a read that you may wrestle with the questions of  'faith, fidelity and forgiveness. I found the
characters Brianna and Alana's were so real in their friendship.  Again, I loved the way this author brought in the scriptures at the beginning of each chapter of how it related to the story.  "Redeeming Waters" was definitely a page turner that will keep your attention to the end.  Yes, this was a love story that will keep you guessing, thinking, some laughter, maybe a tear or two and in the end you get to see the power of God's love. 











 

Blessed Trinity By: Vanessa Davis Griggs

Title:  Blessed Trinity
Author:  Vanessa Davis Griggs
Publisher:  Dafina
Series:  The Blessed Trinity Series #1
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Blessed Trinity" by Vanessa Davis Griggs...


 Three sisters...one devastating secret.

"Faith Alexandria Morrell, the oldest of a mysterious trio of sisters, lives a troubled life and guards a horrifying secret. Yet few, least of all her new church family, would believe this always-impeccably-dressed woman is so utterly lost. But what lies beneath the surface of Faith's carefully constructed veneer could completely destroy her.
Needing help, Faith and her sisters, Hope and Charity, join Followers of Jesus Faith Worship Center. This new mega church, led by the dreadlock-wearing, Holy Ghost-filled Pastor George Landris, just may offer the solace she needs. But Faith soon discovers that all is not well in her new church home: Pastor Landris's  marriage may not be as solid as everyone thinks and he's struggling to finance the church building; Thomas, the pastor's deadbeat brother, is diagnosed as bipolar; and Johnnie Mae, the pastor's wife, is facing some tough choices regarding her ailing mother's care. How can Faith and her sisters find comfort here when so many are wrestling with their own issues? And when one sister suffers a crushing collapse, prayer may be the only way to unravel the mystery shadowing Faith and her sisters--the blessed trinity. "

What I loved about "Blessed Trinity"...

I found this read truly one great read that you will not be able to put down this inspirational read
until the very end.  This  novel  is the first in the series and  what a read.  I loved this beginning series with Pastor George Landris and Johnnie Mae Taylor Landris.  Truly it wasn't a smooth ride for the Landris after moving to Alabama and starting a new ministry... Jesus Faith Worship Center.   Be ready for lots of drama in the church, with their family... and those three interesting women  that comes into their lives....and the 'secret' that will come to the surface only to change many people's lives. 

In the end you will have a truly one amazing Christian fiction read that will only lead you to want to read more from this author. 















                                                                                                                                     

Up At Butternut Lake: Butternut Lake Trilogy #1 By: Mary McNear

Title:  Up at Butternut Lake
Author:  Mary McNear
Publisher:  William Morrow & Company
Series:  The Butternut Lake Trilogy #1
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Age Recommended:  Adult
Rating: 4.5
Review:

"Up At Butternut Lake" by Mary McNear was a wonderful told contemporary inspirational romance novel.  I will say this was a rather hard read for me but since I had asked to read it I chartered on.
This author did a marvelous job with presented to us a story of Alice Beckett who was trying to pick up the pieces of her life now that she was a widow, she goes to a place looking for safety.  Now she is with her son Wyatt on Butternut Lake. I enjoyed the read of this author's novel of showing
how Alice is trying to make it from day to day  and meets up with a friends and even a newcomer.  I enjoyed reading how these four characters ...Alice, Jax and Caroline and Walker all connecting so well together but also showing how each did struggled with love, loss risk taken, fears that were confronted and a new embrace on life.  I liked seeing  this new life as it was seen coming to Alice and to even her son Wyatt.  This author did a brilliant  job in this presentation of a healing process and seeing it  helping others from death of a love one, deception, failed marriage and even darker parts of the past that in the end  that each of the four characters had to go through.  I really enjoyed this part of the read even though it had been a hard read for me.  It gives us hope  for all who are in the need if it and I would definitely recommend it as a good read.

Happily Ever After By Eliabeth Maxwell

Title:  Happily Ever After
Author:  Elizabeth Maxwell
Publisher:  Touchstone
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Age Recommended:  Adult
Rating: 4.5
Review: 

"Happily Ever After" by Elizabeth Maxwell was definitely a fun, unique romance read.  I liked how this author was able to take the reader on a intertwining of different genres to present to the me a interesting story-contemporary, paranormal(magical), erotic, chit lit, some women's fiction and romantic comedy.  I liked the ride of the twist and turns as this story will take you on this fun read. I liked how this author put together this read where I can even see the main character is somewhat overweight, divorced, raising a  eleven year old daughter and supports herself by writing erotica stories. Hay its a job and someone wants to do it!  It really become interesting as you read of  Sadie Fuller when she goes over a current manuscript to find a character and parts of the story she didn't
write...is she losing her mind?  I could even feel with her from the read as fear comes when she stumbles across one of her characters while at the Target store. I really enjoyed how this author presenting the reading with wondering if ... will any of this have to do with helping Sadie  find just what she has lost in her life? I thought this was some deep realization being presented here.   Some of the characters were very well developed and colorful   ... from having to deal with those  noisy neighbors to spandex support I found the read  was definitely blunt and hilarious  in giving the me the reader a even closer  up look  at a single Mom from dating to sex few points.   Now, this maybe a little odd,  cute and unique read however, by picking up this read you will see in the end what this author wants  the reader to understand. I got it!    I also found this story somewhat predictable at times but the way this author presents "Happily Ever After" this read will keep you hooked and very entertained.  

Daughters Who Walk This Path by: Yejide Kilanko

Title:  Daughters Who Walk This Path
Author:  Yejide Kilanko
Publisher: Penguin Canada
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4.5
Review:

"Daughters Who Walk This Path" by  Yejide Kilanko

"Spirited and intelligent, Morayo grows up surrounded by school friends and family in busy, modern-day Ibadan, Nigeria. An adoring little sister, their traditional parents, and a host of aunties and cousins make Morayo's home their own. So there's nothing unusual about her charming but troubled cousin Bros T moving in with the family. At first Morayo and her sister are delighted, but in her innocence, nothing prepares Morayo for the shameful secret Bros T forces upon her.

Thrust into a web of oppressive silence woven by the adults around her, Morayo must learn to fiercely protect herself and her sister from a legacy of silence many women in Morayo's family share. Only Aunty Morenike—once shielded by her own mother—provides Morayo with a safe home and a sense of female community that sustains her as she grows into a young woman in bustling, politically charged, often violent Nigeria."

What I gathered from the read....

I found from reading "Daughters Who Walk This Path" was a well written story about 'family, friendship, community and personal courage."  I like how the author used a 'Nigerian proverb' at the beginning of each chapter which enhanced what was involving around this story's  growth into adulthood.  You will be caught up in the read as this author shares with the reader a thought provoking and private moments that come up for this young girl named  Morayo and her sister Eniayo who happened to be born an albino.    From the read we find that some of the relatives gave the family a  hard time  about this albino child.  I found it real interesting how people seemed to come and go out of this family's life and then there was that troubled spoiled cousin who proved to be really horrible being the one who would ... I will stop at this point not wanting to spoil it.  I will say at this point in the read I didn't understand the reasoning of Morayo's parents with there silence and secrets.  It was interesting seeing how the story was well  presented with what had happened to Morayo...'the big secret' that almost destroyed her but thank God for their being a family member  (aunt Morenike) that was able to come in  having gone through similar experiences  and helped Morayo bear her burden and help hold this family together. This story was well presented and this was one of my favorite parts of the read.

I loved this author's storyline as well as the  style of writing showing intensed  drama and suspense.  This is this  author's first novel and I believe it was done very well written definite giving the readers signs of a  'gentle, caring and insightful  type of read.  As you read "Daughters Who Walk This Path"  you will be quickly drawn into this family's 'community, culture and sisterhood.'  I did find a few words (Nigerian names)that I could not pronounce but that was OK I was still able to understand what was going on in the read. I also found  one chapter  a little different when the author dived into the political  realm, but all in all  it came out a good read. 

I found the main characters were well developed, believable, intriguing and therefore we got a captivating read that will keep your attention that has so much intensed emotions as well as experiences.  It was really good to see the main heroine as she journeys to womanhood having overcome some much difficult times in her life .now being able to establish some lasting friendship, move through some difficult relationships with men and most of all heal from sexual abuse that had been place on her.  I love seeing as the story progressed there being a beautiful relationship that was inspired by these woman as they share their bonds. 

This author really goes into depth conveying the moral fundamental questions that should be  applied  to young children  and teens in that there  should be a stand taken against domestic and sexual violence.

What I really loved from the read....

"Daughters Who Walk This Path" was a story of a this young woman's emotional life's journey and all that she had endured from this traumatic ordeal to become the woman she became....a successful adult. Even though a lot of the read was said I still found this read quite interesting of cultures of other countries as was presented from this [Ibadan, Africa] experience.

You Killed My Brother By Keith Rommel

Title: You Killed My Brother
Author:  Keith Rommel
Publisher: Enigma Press
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Suspense
Rating: 4.5
Review:

My Thoughts after reading....  "You Killed My Brother"

"You Killed My Brother" by Keith Rommel was one of those reads that after reading it you will be left thinking that was truly a read of such bad tragedies that just kept on coming all the way to the end.  You will simply not be able to take a breath for more worse to start happening.  "You Killed My Brother" is truly one of those kind of read that will have you shaking your head and holding my breath  and just saying and even asking did that just happen? Wow!  This author really knows who to keep the audience attention with is fast pace that dealt with some very horrible criminals and law abiding citizens dealing with pain and loss.  As I was reading "You Killed My Brother" I thought when would enough be enough because the way the read was going enough was never enough.  It seem that after one chain reaction starting with Jennifer and her two daughters who were almost in a car accident to another one would start up another reaction  and it will  continue all the way till the end.  Be ready  for many twist and turns,  mystery, murder and suspense all wrapped up with loss of action to give the reader a read that you will find hard to put down until the end only to get one scary horrible read.  You will be left to think does this really happen...Am I dreaming?  I will say that this author really jumped around a lot in this novel so you will have to keep up with what, who and what  all is going on.  I found the characters  were a variety of mixture of flawed/good  ones,  believable,  but mainly all were  well portrayed and in the end  you will get a thriller of a read.    I am still dealing with the reality of  does this really happen but I am sure deep down the answer is yes as you will see from the read  just how and  what justice really means to different people.  "You Killed My Brother" was  definitely a  well written novel but it  is not for the faint of heart.  Be prepared to find the ending....  well this is the part I say you will have to pick up this novel to see for yourself.

The Red Bikini By Lauren Christopher

The Red Bikini
Author:  Lauren Christopher
Publisher:  Berkley
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Age Recommended:  Adult
Rating: 4.5
Review:

"The Red Bikini" By Lauren Bikini was a beautiful told contemporary  romance that turned out to
be a new beginning for Giselle McCabe.  In my opinion I liked how this author's  presentation of  this story of after Giselle  husband had leaves her,  she decides to take a two week getaway to her sister's California beach house and there she meets  Fin Hensen who was a  gorgeous celebrity athlete.  I liked how this author was able to give  us the inside of how Fin was escaping his pro tour for a season, due to a  big huge mistake that had happen in his past, but for him when he meets up with Giselle he realizes that maybe she was just the one to be his ticket to success.  "The Red Bikini"  will definitely be a page turner finding myself constantly turning the pages zoomed into this read of just what is going to happen next for these two people.  I felt like I was there seeing what  did  happen as Giselle realizes that romance has entered into the picture with this hot twenty eight...almost twenty nine that she is dealing with which  definitely put her into quite a different world spin  for her being seven or so year older or really does it? What can I make of a older woman with a younger man?  Not  really nothing...if it's to be so be it.    It was fun reading and somewhat humours seeing Giselle trying  to stop running away from Fin's advancements.   At this point I felt the author did a excellent  job with showing the  predicament  that Giselle was getting herself in and seeing only one way out. 

 This is where I say you must pick up this well written read to see how this author will bring it all out to the readers.  I found  "The Red Bikini" was not only a intriguing read but also  fantastic, charming and humours  that I would definitely  recommend to you as a satisfying read.

The Glass Kitchen By Linda Francis Lee

Title:  The Glass Kitchen
Author:  Linda Francis Lee
Publisher:  St Martin's Press
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Age Recommended: Adult
Rating: 4.5
Review:

"The Glass Kitchen" by Linda Francis Lee was a interesting contemporary romantic read that did have some fantasy interwoven  into it.   I found the read and interesting way his author presented this romance.  It was indeed a interesting read surrounding Portia who after managing through a  horrible marriage and the death of her grandmother Portia will move to NYC broken hearted with two suitcases  along with her grandmother's 'Glass Kitchen Cookbooks and the 'gift' that she no longer wanted.  It was at this point I found somewhat strange but continued on with the read.  Well,
after reading a little further I was able to understand the thought pattern of his author and it was a
good one and I liked it.  'The Knowing' wow, what was that?  Even though Portia has stopped listening to 'The Knowing' which was  the urges to create recipes (dishes) that would tell  her that something will happen...be it good or bad...however, she would never know until it happened.  I enjoyed how this was presented by the author. Those consequences Portia now wanted nothing to do with especially after what had happened to her grandmother. This I could very well understand from the read.  Then life moves on and  takes her to NY where we find Portia wanting to get on with her life in her new place where she thought she would be living with her sisters but to find out....the author goes another direction and presents us with new people... Gabriel Kane and his daughters.  I like how this author tune the reader into  one of the daughter's Ariel as well as Gabriel, who had a few secrets of his own.  I think this really helped  Portia come out of her funk as she will help so much with that situation with Gabriel's daughter... making a connection relationship  with this family.  Also, I can see it...the urging for Portia to get back into the kitchen again even though she still remembers what had happened to her earlier...wow...I liked this part best of the story.  I don't want to tell to much so to spoil the story.  I  will say I thought this author did do a good job with this  well written  story and how is deepens with some secrets being  revealed and surprises that did come out that will keep you truly zoomed into  turning  the pages until the end.  I would definitely see how this one would be a very interesting to the  Women's Fiction or Chick Lit readers.   Oh, and at  if you are into recipes check be sure to  out  the end of this novel  for some wonderful recipes that I  tried (a few) and did love them!

Midnight Play By: Lisa Marie Perry

Title:  Midnight Play
Author:  Lisa Marie Perry
Series:  The Blue Dynasty Series
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Midnight Play" by Lisa Marie Perry...


Love evens the score

"As general manager of the Las Vegas Slayers, Danica Blue goes toe-to-toe with players whose size is matched only by their egos. Quarterback Dex Harper is the biggest and toughest of them all, with a hell-raiser reputation that he insists he doesn't deserve. And Danica, the good daughter who's always played by the rules, is suddenly tempted to break every last one.

Football is the only thing Dex has ever been able to count on. To save his career he needs Danica's PR savvy, and he's happy to help her discover her inner bad girl in return. But glimpsing the real woman behind that sexy, flawless facade is making him realize how much is at stake. Because getting back on the team could mean losing Danica, unless he's willing to risk it all—and play for keeps."

What I enjoyed about "Midnight Play" was all of it.  The story starts out with the general manager of the Las Vegas Slayers, Danica Blue having to fired the quarterback Dex Harper who seemed to be a quite a real 'hell-raiser,  but later finds that there is something that leads her to want to help him with his football career.   This is where this author shows  her magic by letting it happen and in doing so ...well I don't want to spoil it so ...this is where I say you must pick up "Midnight Play" to see how this will all come out.  I loved how this author brings it  out that it wasn't just Dex that needed help because as you read you will soon discover that Danica needed  some help too with her personal life.  What  high stakes will there be for Danica and Dex having to face will really be something to read about especially coming mainly from Danica's parents.  With this being a interracial couple will this work for them?  I loved how this author's  presentation of this read that will definitely  keep your interest and attention turning the pages until the end.  I found "Midnight Play" a contemporary romance that was well written and enjoyable that I would recommend it to all of those romantic readers. 

The Preacher's Bride By Jody Hedlund

Title: The Preacher's Bride
Author:  Jody Hedlund
Publisher:  Bethany House
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  5
Review:

"The Preacher Bride"  by Jody Hedlund....

"In 1650s England, a young Puritan maiden is on a mission to save the baby of her newly widowed preacher--whether her assistance is wanted or not. Always ready to help those in need, Elizabeth ignores John's protests of her aid. She's even willing to risk her lone marriage prospect to help the little family.

Yet Elizabeth's new role as nanny takes a dangerous turn when John's boldness from the pulpit makes him a target of political and religious leaders. As the preacher's enemies become desperate to silence him, they draw Elizabeth into a deadly web of deception. Finding herself in more danger than she ever bargained for, she's more determined than ever to save the child--and man--she's come to love."


"The Preacher's Bride" was one beautiful told stories that will keep your interest right till the end.  This read was truly a Historical Christian novel with some suspense that was simply a amazing read.  This author presented to us a beautiful romance between the main characters that was truly a example of 'God working in mysterious ways.'   I loved how the hero and the heroine were brought together even though their would be a struggle through persecution but in the end it all came out so well presented to the reader.  This author did a wonderful job in taking the true story of  John Bunyan and then presenting 'the woman behind John Bunyan' ... Elizabeth.  I found this story well written and one that will keep you on the edge of your seat turning the pages to see what was going to happen next in the emotional captivating read.   I found it quite interesting seeing how this author got the characters into a role that shaped them as they went through it all...trials and temptations showing strength that they could only receive from above.  The characters simply seem to literally jump off the pages due to  this authors awesome script and yes its about  religion, with their 'hopes, dreams, fears and struggles.' 

What I really loved about "The Preacher's Bride" was that most of the history of the read was true as we know John Bunyan wrote 'Pilgrim's Progress' which is a wonderful read that I have also read. 
If you are looking for a amazing read you have come to the right place for an excellent novel. 

Surrender By: Brenda Jackson

Title:  Surrender
Author:  Brenda Jackson
Publisher:  Harlequin
Series:  Madaris Family and Friends #10
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Surrender" by Brenda Jackson

"After a childhood spent moving from army base to army base, Nettie Brooms is determined to secure a stable life -- and never become involved with a military man. Then she meets handsome, charming Ashton Sinclair, a dedicated Colonel in the U.S. Marines, who's intent on capturing her heart. Now, Nettie's wondering how a man she swore she would avoid could so easily test her resolve...by igniting an irresistible passion she can't ignore."

What I liked about "Surrender"  was that it was a continuation of the Madaris family stories.  This story was mainly about Netherland Brooms Colonel Ashton Sinclair where their will be a lots of sensual tension between these two.  We have Nettie vowing never to get involved with any military men after growing up in a military family which required her moving around a lot and then here comes Ashton who will come back into her life and changes it all. Also  be ready for a story that will have  several other story lines that you will have to  only keep up with it all.   "Surrender" was truly full of sweet intriguing love stories  that dud  keep my  attention till the end.  I enjoyed how this author was able to bring along characters from her other series of the Madaris family as well as giving us some new ones as well.  Even though this is a stand alone novel I would recommend to  enjoy the read even more pick  up the previous books in the amazing series. 

Unexpected By: Aja and Roy Glenn

Title:  Unexpected
Authors:  Aja and Roy Glenn
Publisher:  She Loves Words Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  4
Review:

"Unexpected" by Aja and Roy Glenn...
 

Maya Taylor has been left stung by the arrow of love one too many times for her liking. Swearing off heartache she decides that the staid and boring life is just fine for her. But a well-meaning friend points out that she isn’t really living at all and helps Maya embark on a journey with a new attitude. This leads to a chance encounter with a handsome gentleman that is all about living in the moment.

Roman Newsome has constantly been on the search for the perfect woman. She needs to look beautiful, have something to talk about other than herself and be able to keep up with his prowess in bed. But having found out that most women pretend to have it all only to reveal their true unappealing colors, he’s decided the perfect woman must not exist. Until he meets Maya. . .

Can these two fundamentally different people make their romance work? Will he settle his spirit long enough to realize that “perfect” really just means, perfect for him? And will Maya accept that she has to take a chance at love in order to truly live her life.

What happens between them may just be . . . unexpected.

What I liked about "Unexpected" was that it was a good short romantic story and once you start reading you will find it hard to put down until the end and oh my what a ending!  I loved how the these author was able to give the reader a good sweet story of Maya and Roman who had both been through bad relationships.  It was   quite interesting that "Unexpected" was so very relatable in today's world where you will find these two people who were both accountants being able to come to a resolution to their issues, talking to one another and in so finding....  but  before that will happen we will see from the read where  Maya's pass hasn't been lucky in love situations and then we will also  see from the read that even Roman  has had some problems too. Getting this all figured out will be interesting read. 

In His Eyes By Nina Pierce

Title:  In His Eyes
Author:  Nina Pierce
Publisher:  Seaside Publications
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4.5
Review: 

"In His Eyes" by Nina Pierce was one scary suspenseful thriller read!  I was kept saying wow, I didn't see that one coming all the way through this well paced intense mystery read.  I read it in one setting because I wasn't able to stop reading "In His Eyes" until the very end.   I will say up front that several times I thought I know who this serial killer was but this author really knows her stuff at keeping the reader at bay guessing with there being so many twist and turn...points of views coming from all directions.  So, as I read "In His Eyes"  there is a search for a serial killer , a couple  is also trying to repair a marriage (Maggie & Alex Callaghan) and a obsessed FBI agent is on the line for possibly losing his job while he is hunting  for this serial killer. 

What I liked about "In His Eyes"

I felt this novel was more  of a psychological suspense rather an a romance so if you are looking for a sexy romance this isn't the case.  Now,  I believe there was a little romance but believe me it wasn't under the main plot in this thriller read.  I  found the characters  for this novel very interesting even well developed  but somewhat confusing in being able to  keep up with.   But as I was able to continue to read I did find a certain patterns that was taken that finally help me understand just what all was going on and with whom. That was simply one of those  ha ha moments for me because I had to reread several chapters again for understanding of the character development!  I did find the FBI wrap up was some what too rushed and fast  for me leaving quite a few questions that I needed to be answered questions on who did it.    I will say this author really worked her magic and certain degrees in keeping me (the reader) deceived on just who this killer was... always there throwing a curve balls keeping me  guessing.  This read was full of suspense and  definitely a thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.  If you are a suspense lover you have come t the right place for "In His Eyes" will give it to you and more and with that being said I would definitely recommend this worth while novel to you. 

I will say this is my first read by this author  Ms. Pierce and was glad to have met her in a Night Owl chat room where she featured her novel "In His Eyes."    I  found this novel a well written script that presented many surprises, twist and turns that continued until the end. 






                                   

Under My Thumb By: Abby Reynolds

Title:  Under My Thumb [Serenade Series #1]
Author:  Abby Reynolds
Publisher: A.R.
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"Under My Thumb" by Abby Reynolds was definitely one of those novels that would keep your interest as well as attention  due to so much was going on in this unique story. I will say up front be ready for a rather long story and I hate to spoil it for you...you will not get a ending (left hanging) so  you will have to pick up the next series  for that part of the 'Serenade Series.'  Now, with that being said I liked the story line of "Under My Thumb" by this author showing how the hero and heroine )Pru and Cash) had both been hurt  in the past and now being brought together only...will they fall in love?  The story seems  to alternate between these two main characters and it was interesting seeing this relationship develop and wondering if they will ever just talk to each other and telling how each one feels.  The characters in this novel were all over the place...many flawed at times...others were more well developed, liked and maybe even believable but all mostly being so well portrayed only helping to give this novel some uniqueness in the read that will keep your attention for wanting to know what was going to happen next. I loved this author's presentation of the steamy love scenes where the hero and heroine will develop a friendship and fall in love but will that be enough for Pru?  For a billionaire and a rock star ...two people who weren't supposed to fall in love, however who knows when the heart knows differently. 

"Under My Thumb" was a good story told with portraying a little of it all.. 'friendships, losses, trust
and love.'  Would I recommend  this novel?  Yes!