Slow Hand By: Victorica Vane

Title:  Slow Hand
Author:  Victoria Vane
Publisher:  Sourcebooks Casablanca
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Slow Hand" by Victoria Vane....

Description

In rural Montana...

"Wade Knowlton is a hard-working lawyer who’s torn between devoting himself to his small-town Montana law practice, and helping his brother keep their struggling ranch going. He’s on the brink of exhaustion from trying to save everybody and everything, when gorgeous Nicole Powell walks into his office in desperate need of an attorney. She’s just the breath of fresh air he needs.

Even the lawyers wear boots...

Nicole Powell is a sassy Southern girl who has officially sworn off cowboys after a spate of bad seeds-until her father's death sends her to Montana and into the arms of a man who seems too good to be true. Her instincts tell her to high tail it out of Montana, but she can't resist a cowboy with a slow hand...

Nicole is a southern belle with a hankering for cowboys—but after a spate of bad seeds, she's sworn off anything in boots. As their attraction flares into a passion they can't avoid, will they discover that love can lead to greener pastures?"

What I enjoyed from the read.....

I enjoyed this sweet well written contemporary romance by Ms. Vane.   It was definitely one read that would make you smile  at some of its humorous one liners that are going on in this read.  Life had not been kind to Nikki when it came to men so when her father dies and has left her something  and she has no idea what it could be since it has been a long time since she had seen him.  I liked how this author brings it all out to the reader how Nikki liked living in Chicago and wasn't too happy about flying to Montana.  We find Nikki not to happy camper especially not having much luck with men as you will see from the read.   Will Nikki  find happiness when she finally meets her lawyer who just happens to be a 'Sexy Montana Cowboy?  Now that will leave another question...what all is going on with this Wade guy?  Wade was a definitely a cowboy with slow hands who had a brother (Dirk) who had a list of problems of his own, a failed father and a sweet mom. What all has happened in Wade's life  that leaves him with a "chip the size of Montana on his shoulder?"  I did love how this author was able to bring these two (Nikki and Wade) together and omg the sex is hot and  simply off the chart!  I don't want to give too much away other than to say there will be some twist and turns for Nikki to go through.  The question is will  Nikki  decide to let go and take on  some new chances in her life?   Can the love that Wade has for Nikki be enough for her to take a risk for love?  Hopefully, will she?...well again I don't want to give it away so you will just have to pick up "Slow Hand" to see how this author will bring it all out to the readers.  I did find this story a little predictable in some of the read  but still it didn't take anything away from this well written story.   If you are looking for a good romance with a lovable cowboy you have come to the right place.... for "Slow Hand" would be recommended to you.

The Heist By: Adriana Kraft

Title:  The Heist
Author:  Adriana Kraft
Publisher:  B & B Publication
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"The Heist" by Adriana Kraft ....

A heist? A murder? It’s villain’s choice.

"A special-order art theft? Tedious, but seamless – until small town museum director Kara Daniels calls in the experts. Furious her favorite trio of priceless impressionist paintings has been stolen from its traveling exhibit on her watch, Kara is determined to save not only the paintings, but her future in the art world. She’ll stop at nothing to entrap the thief.

Ted Springs knows the underbelly of the criminal world a little closer than he might like—but he’s turned it to good advantage, first as a police officer, and now as detective for the Upper Midwest Arts Council. His job? To guarantee the security of the valuable paintings in the Council’s traveling exhibits.

Heat sizzles when Ted and Kara collide—can they work together, before it’s too late?"


What I liked from the read....

"The Heist" was a good mystery along with some steamy hot sex that only this author always gives
so well to her readers.  This novel  is definitely one of those reads that once you start reading this story your attention will be keep you  turning the pages  to see what will happen next with the thief
of  'The Three Maids' paintings.   I liked this story line and the plot that the reader  will be presented at the beginning of the read of  just who the thieves are that stole the paintings. Then comes along the many twist and turns  until we get to the end of this story to see what happens with these paintings. I found the two main characters (Kara and Ted) very interesting people and by the end seemed to be made for each other as the sex scenes were very hot especially Kara's take charge in her sexual approach.   The secondary characters were also a  very interesting bunch of people where you will find them well developed, well portrayed, colorful and very believable presented ... such as ...Sasha and the Lawton's to name a few  that helped to give the reader a well thought out good story.  Not to give any more away about the read I would definitely recommend  you pick up and read "The Heist"  to see for yourself how well this author presents this well written novel to the readers. 

Divorce, Interrupted By: Jill James

Title:  Divorce, Interrupted
Author:  Jill James
Publisher: J.J.
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"Divorce, Interrupted" by Jill James....

What was this novel about?

Book 1 - The Lake Willowbee series

"Newly-divorced Todd and Lisa Miller are stranded at their mountain cabin. There to divide a lifetime of memories, they soon are in danger from more than the anger between them. A vicious storm forces them to rely on each other to survive.

Can they trust the one person they lost belief in? Or are their hearts in danger from more than floods and frigid weather?"

Romance heat level: Hot

Book 2 is Dare To Trust
Book 3 is Defend My Love

What I liked about this novel.....

This was a good read of  about Lisa and Todd who thought their  twenty year marriage  was all over, 'Divorced,' however having to come  together for the weekend  and listening to each other  will  they be able to  reconcile, forgive and move on.  I liked how this author was able to deliver a well written story that showed how second chances  could exit  even after all the drama.  Yes, divorce is a very touchy issue and I thought the story line showed real life problems that can happen in any marriage. I liked how this couple's children tried to help in this story.  The ending well I will just say you much pick up "Divorce, Interrupted" to see how the story ends.

If you are looking for a story of love and forgiveness you have come to the right place for a good read about a second chance.

I Had To Do It By: Mrs. T. Nichole

Title:  I Had To Do It
Author:  Ms. T. Nicole
Publisher:  Ms.T.N.
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"I Had To Do It" by Ms. T. Nicole....

What was this novel about?

"Follow Bridget as she copes with the devastating discovery of her husband, high powered attorney Paul Moody betrayal- a family bond is torn, friendships advance, and fear is always lurking. Is Bridget strong enough to survive...will she survive?"

What I thought about this read....

This author did a wonderful job with this well written short quick read.  This heroine(Bridget) was really put in a very delicate situation that turned out simply horrible for her where she will be found in many twist and turns before the end of this story.  This is not a predictable story as you will see from the read.  This author really knows how to keep your attention because once you start reading "I Had To Do It" I couldn't put it down until I had finished reading it.  I don't want to spoil any of this story line other than say you must pick up the novel and read it for yourself.  Once you start reading you will see how, why, where and what of this novel.  Be ready for a read of a husband (ex)(Paul),  a family member(cousin) and a boyfriend(James) whatever can really put Bridget through some of  it all.  Be ready for a page turner with of a lots of  drama, romance, mystery, suspense and some real crazy people.' 

What I especially liked about this read...

The characters were all a interesting ,memorable bunch of people that were richly developed, well portrayed that seemed to come alive on the pages especially Bri's sorority sisters.  In the end we will be left with a cliff hanger where we will have to wait for this author's part two to see how this will end for Bridget.  This is definitely one novel that I would recommend.  Well done to the author!

Disconnected By J. Cafesin

Title:  Disconnected
Author:  J. Cafesin
Publisher:  Entropy Press
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Disconnected" by J. Cafesin ....

What was this novel about?

"Ever drank too much, ate too much, indulged in excess? Ever fall for someone you knew you shouldn't?

Rachel was an artist, an obsessive, straddling the line of addiction. She sought what most women did—to be successful, married and in love, have healthy kids. It was hard enough attracting a man when she wasn't heroin thin and perfectly chic like most L.A. women, sparkly but not too bright, as her mother insisted females need be. But in the 1990s, finding a man looking for an equal partner, wanting a woman beside him instead of behind him, seemed the impossible dream.

Then along came Lee…

Disconnected is an L.A. story, an addicting contemporary romance that never should have been, and like the city itself embodies a very sharp edge."


What I liked from this read....

All I can say is this author really told the reader quite a interesting story.  It was really interesting seeing how this author would bring it all out in this well written script.  It was really interesting how this author was able to incorporate the 'LA life....with the 'Rodney King' riots into this well detailed read.   The heroine (Rachel) was really committed to her stand...putting it out their just what she wanted in her life..."to be successful, married, in love, and have healthy kids."  Then Rachel meets Lee.  Will Lee be all that Rachel wants and needs in her life?  Was Rachel Lynn to have all of this and just when will she did she realize before its to late for her if this would even be for her?   The characters in this novel were all richly well developed, well portrayed, where each one seemed to come alive on the pages.  I did find Rachel's family quite a interesting bunch...the father, mother and sister.  I will say they were not my favorite characters.  I will say it took me a minute or two understanding Rachel Lynn thought patterns  but in the end I was able to  understand it more clearly.  Be ready for a read of a little of it all... romance, family relationships, drugs,  realism, and definitely self worth.  Now, I don't want to give away too much away other than say you must pick this read up and see how this author will bring it all out to the reader. 

What I especially liked about the read...

'Disconnected" was a  well captivating powerful story line and once you start reading it will be  hard to put down until the end.  In the end will Rachel will she be able to move on with her life alone
having a different mirror of herself...definitely disconnecting?  Again you will have to read it to see!

Ride to Restoration (Ride Series Book 2) By D.J. Wilson

Title:  Ride to Restoration (Ride Series Book 2
Author:  D. J. Wilson
Publisher:  Riscatto Publishing
Series: Ride Series Book 2
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Ride to Restoration" by D.J. Wilson....

What was this novel about?

"In this second book, D learns that paying it forward is not without costs, toss in Candi Parker, the girl of D’s dreams gone rogue, along with vivacious Victoria Lawson, attorney at law, who willingly steps in to fill Candi’s thong, and D’s hilarious misadventures continue across Canada. Reality sets in and the bullets begin to fly just two days after he returns to the states.

D sends Victoria away to keep her out of harm’s way, before tackling his real life demons, aka A.J. Standford, the Ponzi scheming banker who has a bounty on D’s head, and Candi’s extended family, the Gambinos, who will profit from his demise.

The romantic side of the story poses multiple questions: Will D settle for Victoria after being royally screwed by Candi or will his feelings for Candi propel him back into her life and the crime family’s ongoing chaos? Will Candi take back her sleazy ex-husband Joseph or will she somehow manage to break with her powerful family and come crawling back to D’s loving arms?

With all of this going on, there’s bound to be hell to pay sooner rather than later. Like momma always said, “When you play with fire, you’re gonna get burned.”

What I liked from this novel....

First of all I will say I think it is best to read 'Ride to Redemption' book one of this author's novels before reading this one because it will explain a lots that continues on in this read 'paying it forward" 'Ride to Restoration.'  Get ready for a read with a little bit of it all and you will have to keep up with it because it is easy to get lost especially who is who? This author uses a lots of narratives  along with some subconscious thoughts of the different characters.  The chapters will jump around from one area to another as this author will lead you  on a long ride as we visit with Candice, Joseph, Victoria, and D(Jon David).  Be ready for a journey of steamy sex scenes, traveling...riding the motorcycle, romance, hunts, bantering between them  and even beautiful scenery described in  this read  as you will  'play it forward' throughout the read. So, will we learn what is going on with "that diamond story that's flooding the news channels that was making instant millionaires to so many people?" How will V come out of all of this mess he has gotten himself in...with Candi and V? Be prepared for a long read because this author will not leave anything out in his seventy some chapters. 

What I also  liked from this read...

The main and secondary characters were really off the chart... all very interesting, well developed and even believable as the reader gets many sides of them as you read about their present and future. 
I liked the feeling of being able to seem that you were there with each of them.  This was definitely a unique way of deliverance of a read given to us by the author.  The are a lots of questions to all of the Ponzi scheming  that is brought out in the read.  I don't want to give any of this good story away so you will just have to pick up 'Ride to Restoration' to see how this author will bring it all out to the readers.  Believe me it will be one  interesting ride!  Now, I will say a little something about the ending...yes, you will be left having to wait and see what's next in this author's  Ride Series... Book 3  'Ride to Retribution.'

Closing Books By Trisha Grace

Title:  Closing Books
Author:  Trisha Grace
Publisher:  T.G.
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Closing Books" by  Trisha Grace...

What was this novel about?

* * * New Edition: 29 Aug 2013 * * * Reworked into Christian-based book * * *

"The traditional role of man and woman becomes twisted with Dan and Evelyn.

Dan wasn't a playboy. He didn't have any commitment issues. In fact, he wanted it all. Relationship and family. Only problem? He wanted it with someone who didn't want anything to do with him.

Evelyn didn't fool around in relationships because she had never been in one. She was certain that things like love and happily-ever-afters weren't meant for people like her. There was simply too much darkness in her past.

A past she thought she'd buried.

But she was wrong.

After more than a decade, her nightmare returned to haunt her, forcing her to face up to memories she couldn't seem to shake.

Could she ever close the books to her past and let go of the horrors she had been through? Could she ever learn to trust again?"
 and more.... from the author.....

"This is the second book in the Ghost of the Past series by Trisha Grace, I brought to you yesterday book one Moving On yesterday. This continues the story of the group that is made up of Tyler and Kate, (first book) and then this one focuses on Evelyn and Dan, but you still get Lydia (Kate’s sister), Ryan, Joseph, Marianne, and Mr. Sawyer who play a major part in the first and second books. I will say this one had a lot more dark aspects to it. It brings up subjects such as rape, murder, attempted murder, and kidnapping. Some of which happen to characters that you love. It also has some blackmail and splashes of the evil past that Evelyn went through as a child. It opens up your eyes to why her character is the way it is. You understand all things Evelyn by the time this book ends. You also start to see what kind of man Dan is, he is a true hero in this book. He doesn’t give up on her and that is just what Evelyn needs. It gives you glimpse of what can happen if you let go of your past. It’s much easier to live the way you do because of your past instead of letting go of that past and living the way you ought to. I hope Ryan get’s his story soon, after what he went though in this book he needs someone who understands him. I hope that you all take your time and read this really great series, that in my opinion just keeps getting better. Oh and there are a few surprises regarding Kate and Tyler that you wont want to miss if you have read the first one."

What I received from this read.....

One thing is for sure...the author knows how to get and keep your attention.  Yes, I read this author's book... Ghost of the Past Book 1 and I am so glad I did because it really helped me understand a little more of what was going on in this author's next book... "Closing  Books."  Now, first of all I will say this read is a very dark read that has some issues with rape, child abuse, human trafficking, torture, blackmail, attempted murder and kidnapping, so if this is not your kind of read maybe you had better stop now!  If not,  then welcome to this author's masterful well written captivating story.  The story may be a little hard to understand at the beginning especially if you haven't read the first book by this author but if you stick with the read it will finally let you figure who everyone is and how they fit in the story.    I was really caught up with this authors vivid descriptions of her characters.  The main characters Dan and Evelyn were very well developed,  colorful, authentic, well portrayed and definitely believable.   There were some other characters  such as Tyler and Kate  who were very interesting and I will stop here and not give any of the story away other than say you to pick up this good read and see for yourself how this author brings it all out about what all is  truly going  on with Evelyn and Dan in this this well plotted story.  Many questions will be answered such as why, what, how and even who as you read "Closing Books."  This author first book left us with a cliff hanger...and I will say I never expected how this read turned out.    

 

Under His Skin By: Sidney Bristol

Title:  Under His Skin
Author: Sidney Bristol
Publisher:  Ellora's Cave
Series: So Inked # 1
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"Under His Skin" by Sidney Bristol

What is this novel all about?

A woman who doesn’t believe she deserves love…

Toe-curling kisses and enough sex to fill a weekend were all Pandora wanted from a fling with her teenage crush. She’s never forgotten how he played the knight in shining armor to her damsel in distress. She’s ready to say thank you in several naughty ways, so long as she can walk away when it’s over with her heart intact.

A man...more "A woman who doesn’t believe she deserves love…

Toe-curling kisses and enough sex to fill a weekend were all Pandora wanted from a fling with her teenage crush. She’s never forgotten how he played the knight in shining armor to her damsel in distress. She’s ready to say thank you in several naughty ways, so long as she can walk away when it’s over with her heart intact.

A man moving on from tragedy…

Brian has no intention of allowing the feisty tattoo artist to leave him after one taste. He hasn’t had enough of her inked curves. The packaging might have changed, but Pandy is the woman he hasn’t been able to excise from his memory. He’s ready to put together a new life, one that includes her. But he’s not the only one vying for her attention. Someone else wants her, dead or alive."


What I got out of this read....

Who would have thought that Brian would find someone of his pass(after ten years) during this Convention to give him a tattoo that would be a memorial to his lost band mates.  Then Brian spends the weekend with Pandora (tattoo artist) and it seems for a while everything seemed to go alright for these two.  However, Pandora and Brian both had some pasted troubles that were presenting itself having been scarred physically, emotionally and even some secrets.  I don't want to leave out the chemistry of the steamy and hot sexy erotic scenes that were off the chart!  Now, to get past all of these issues is their a villain out there who has other plans for Pandora and her business?  I found this a interesting read seeing this heroine come to terms with her past and learn to trust and support Brian.  

What I liked about this novel...

I like how this author brings out the suspense along with the romance and you will be lead to wonder will their be any happiness between Pandora and Brian.  To get it all you will have to pick up this good read "Under His Skin" to see how this author will bring it all out to the readers.  You will definitely find yourself rooting for these two main characters.  Also the secondary characters ...Kellie, Autumn and Mary were all supporting and well developed which only helped give the reader a well written novel.  I really liked how the author headed the chapter with an important tattoo definition that related to each chapter. 

Overall Impression...

So, my overall impression of  "Under His Skin" was a  good drama,  mystery, suspenseful  romance novel that  I would recommend  to you as a good read that will leave you wanting the next novel by this author. 









 

This Ain't A Love Story: Rock City II By: K'Aliyah Knight

Title:  This Ain't A Love Story:  Rock City 2
Author: K'Aliyah Knight
Publisher:  Alana's Book Line
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"This Ain't A Love Story:  Rock City 2" by K'Aliyah Knight

What was the novel about?

"Enter Rock City. Drugs, hustlers, youngbloods, OGs, and the beautiful women that…feel something like love for them. Y'all met the crew in "A Crazy Hood Love" so you know their full of drama. It had you all #TeamRico&Rockwell, but "This Ain't A Love Story" Who team will you be on Now?


There's a thin line between d*ck dizzy and love. Don't cross it. That’s the motto.
27 year old Leelee has never been in love. Don't get it twisted tho, this dark beauty can break necks when she walks past. And her husband, Marcel, puts in the type of work that makes all the chicks delirious. That’s just it. She's tired of his dog ways so any other d*ck will do. Now she's on a mission. She ain't looking for love she just want some sex. Will the dudes in the H put their fear of Marcel to the side to get a taste of her good?

On the opposite end of the spectrum is her niece, Rockwell, who knows she has found love. Matter fact, her boyfriend comes from a rich family and is on the path to being a doctor. Then enters Rico, From the moment she met him at age twelve, Rico had her heart. Whenever he’s near, she can’t be without him. Leelee has warned her to separate love from sex. The warning signs she gets when Rico's around, and her gut feeling that he hasn't knocked the hustle, still can't help her from falling... Will Rockwell play the title "This Ain't A Love Story" and fall in love or will she take Leelee' advice and wear her heart on her sleeve."

What I thought about this novel....

Well, I liked this novel much more than the first one...'A Crazy Hood Love Story: Rock City.'  I don't know why but I was able to understand this one so much more.  Once I started reading I wasn't able to put it down until the end...and then I was left wanting more!  The two main characters Rock and Rico are simply amazing characters along with Big Bo, LeeLee,  Marcel and Blu  to name a few.  This author did a wonderful job at being able grab the reader and hold your attention because there will be a lots going on in this dramatized story. 

My overall impression....

If you are looking for a good urban novel with lots of  drama and lots of twist and turns... you have come to the right place.  Be ready for a read full of  lies, infidelity, shadiness and even some love that leaves one to say  is  'WoW, that was a ending that will leave you wanting more from the next novel to see how in the world  this all with end!

Moving On By: Trisha Grace

Title: Moving On
Author: Trisha Grace
Publisher: T.G.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Moving On"  by Trisha Grace

What was this novel about?
"For twenty years, Tyler Hayes had been ripped from his childhood home. After the horrific accident that took away his parents’ life, Tyler’s grandfather removed him from the mansion and sent him away.

Now, after twenty years, his grandfather had passed away and he could finally go home. However, even in his death, Tyler’s grandfather had betrayed him once again, leaving the mansion to a woman he had never met.

Even though Kate Mitchell had never met Tyler, she knew all about the accident that changed the Hayes’s family. Unbeknownst to her, was how she was going to end up being caught in the middle of a long estranged relationship between two different generations.

Two complete different personalities would have to learn to get along and play nice in order to survive a will that would change their lives."

What I liked from this read.....


First up front, I thought "Moving On" story line was one good novel that showed one overcoming one's past and moving as with Tyler and Kate's life.  This author really worked with all of the interesting secondary characters that played a well developed, colorful (Evelyn, Joanne and Marianne)  part in this good flow of the story.  This author held nothing back showing the struggles and growth of these two main characters showing all of the events and emotions that will come up throughout the read. 

What I also liked and my impression.....

I will say this was definitely a suspenseful read that you will have to keep up with but after saying that .... I was able to follow the thoughts of this author on this interesting journey as you will see if "two complete different personalities learn to get along and play nice in order to survive a will that would change their lives."   And with saying that....I really enjoyed this  incredible told story as I listened from my Kindle.   I would recommend you  pick up "Moving On"  to see how this author brings it all out to the reader.  It will be one interesting, powerful land  entertaining  ride as you will see how this author uses her imagination to give the reader a good story.   

Breakfall By: Kate Pavelle

Title:  Breakfall [Book 1 of the Fall Trilogy]
Author:  Kate Pavelle
Publisher:  Dreamspinner Press
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"Breakfall" by Kate Pavelle.....

What was this novel about?

"Sexual assault doesn't discriminate. Aikido instructor Sean Gallaway learns that when he falls prey to a violent stalker. Asbjorn Lund, a karate sensei on campus and a Navy vet, yearns to teach Sean how to survive. How to overcome. How to recover. Sean feels hunted and alone as the stalker escalates, testing his boundaries. With the entire dojo at his back, Sean resolves to play bait. He will catch the animal stalking him and reclaim his sense of self if it's the last thing he does. Yet Sean's hunger for justice clashes with Asbjorn's protective streak, and their budding romance might not survive their war of wills."


My thoughts from the read...

I thought what a interesting book cover and when I went on to find out what this novel was about  I thought this may be good so I read "Breakfall." And YES, it is about gay partners.   I must say I did like the martial arts going on but  I really wasn't able to follow it all  due to all of the references and its sayings?  However, I kept on reading and found the two main characters were definitely alpha males and after all that happens the main question will be will they be able to work it all out in the end?  There will have to be a lots of giving of space for one of the characters and for the other one to back off some  but isn't that what love is all about...being there for each other and the give and take?   Will these stubborn alpha males learn how to love each other while maintain their individuality?  Well,  I will not give any of it away other than to say you will have to pick up this read "Breakfall" to see how this will bring it all out to the reader.   You will have to wait and see because this author will leave the reader with a cliff hanger, so we will have to wait for the next trilogy!

Suicide Supper Club By: Rhett DeVane

Title:  Suicide Supper Club
Author:  Rhett DeVane
Publisher:  Writer4Higher
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Suicide Supper Club" by Rhett DeVane....

What was this novel about:

"Life is crap and the weather is stupid-hot: reasons enough for four small-town Southern women to plan "the easy way out." Abby has no husband, no children, no living kin, and a painful family secret. Loiscell is a two-time breast cancer survivor facing recurrence with dwindling faith and courage. Sheila is a meek abused wife hiding behind a religious, volunteer-queen veneer. Estranged from her only child, Caroline "Choo-choo" Ivey desperately misses her late husband. Sheila's husband, a correctional officer for a local prison, belongs to a clandestine paramilitary group. Glenn's drinking and deep-seated wounds from a cruel alcoholic father fuel his anger. Glenn meets Julius Herndon, known by his secret hunting club name of Clay, an ex-military man with a dangerous, criminal edge. As the relentless summer heat continues, conditions deteriorate for the women. Initially in jest, they propose group suicide: a nice meal, followed by a quick death courtesy of a paid assassin. Choo-choo offers to pay, and Sheila figures a way to enlist her husband to acquire a contact name. Plans go haywire when Clay trains Glenn for the hit. As an unexpected result, the four members of the Suicide Supper Club learn that death is a process not easily dictated by a selective act of will. Life, no matter how difficult, is a gift."

What I received from the read....

This was quite a interesting read of how this author puts together four woman in this small town who gathered at a restaurant to plan their own suicides. However, as each one of the ladies bond together in friendship and secrets  are unveiled will this 'Suicide Supper Club plan go off? This author really works it with the humor to end it all  that does come about from this suicide planning and its descriptive culture of this small southern town in the Florida. It was quite a interesting story of how this author was able to bring these women to life who lead very different lives, were of different ages as well as situations in life that each one had taking on 'the very real reason why people are driven to end it all.' 

I found the characters: Abby, Loiscell, Sheila and Choo-choo were all well rounded, well portrayed and believable which helped to bring this novel to life and  even maybe helping to understand  why the 'Suicide Supper Club?'  

What I really liked about this read?

When it's all said and done ...will each of these woman find a reason to live or will they take the easy way out....well this is when I say you must pick up "Suicide Supper Club" and see for yourself how this author brings it all out to the reader.  It will be a intriguing read that I would recommend.

A House Without Windows By: Stevie Turner

Title:  A House Without Windows
Author: Stevie Turner
Publisher:  S.T.
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"A House Without Windows" by Stevie Turner....

What is this novel about?

"Newly-pregnant Dr Beth Nichols had no idea she was being stalked by ex-patient Edwin Evans as she made her way home one evening after a late shift. After being anaesthetized she woke up in Edwin’s basement, held against her will, and eventually giving birth there without medical help.

The story is written from different perspectives; from Beth’s 9 year old daughter Amy who is born in captivity, from Beth herself, now pregnant with Edwin’s baby, from her fiancée Liam, and 16 years later from her son Joss and his father Edwin.

When Beth escapes, the Press get hold of the story and Beth and Amy have their photo in the newspaper. Liam (who has made another life for himself back in his homeland of Canada with his new partner Patty and their son Toby) is shocked to see the photo, thinking Beth had been murdered years before.

Liam must make the difficult choice of either meeting up with Beth again and getting to know his daughter, or staying where he is in Toronto.

The story then runs ahead to the point where Joss finds out who his real father is, now a patient in a secure mental hospital. Joss wants to get to know him, and makes a journey against his mother’s wishes to see his real father. However, the much-anticipated meeting does not go quite to plan; Edwin still seems obsessed with Beth, and Joss feels unloved and unwanted. He makes the mistake of telling Edwin where the family are living, and when Edwin is eventually released he comes looking to claim Beth back again, the only woman he has ever loved."

What I  got from the read....

Wow, this was really some read that this author presented involving some many characters with such
a story that in the end was  well blended together giving the reader a well written read.  It is my understanding that  there was a real story taken from events that had happened in Lambeth London dealing with three women that had been held captive for thirty some years.  This author in his novel "A House Without Windows"  really did some research to give the readers a inside version of what happened to Dr. Beth Nichols, her daughter and son, Joss, her former boyfriend Liam and Edwin Evans.  Be prepared for a read that is full of complexed emotions, physical and psychological issues  as this author details a little of it all. "A House Without Windows" will be hard to put down once you start reading it because it will keep your attention from the start to the finish.  I don't want to give any of this story away other than to say pick up this good read to see how this author brings this story line all out. Believe me, it will be some read.   If you a in for a good drama, thriller, and  mystery then I would recommend this novel to you.

The Return: A Second Chance to Find Love (Return To Me Book 1) By: A.L. Parks

Title:  The Return [A Second Chance to Find Love](Return To Me Book 1)
Author:  A.L. Parks
Publisher:  CreateSpace Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"The Return" by A.L. Parks...

What is this novel about....

"Eve Carlisle had a singular purpose - sell the rustic house nestled in the Colorado ski resort town.

Tortured by her husband’s betrayal, the beautiful divorcee refused to give her heart to another man. But Jake had been a happy surprise, with his mesmerizing blue eyes, warm smile, strong but gentle nature – as well as being incredibly sexy.

She had convinced herself the relationship with Jake was nothing more than a fling. After all, she had a life in Newport, with society friends and a lucrative career as a family court judge. Still, Jake had a definitive hold over her, and she was finding it hard to think clearly where he was concerned.

The demons of prior failed marriages haunt them both, and threaten to end things just as they are beginning. When Jake tells Eve he is falling in love with her, Eve refuses to believe it can last. Returning to Newport, the hollowness of her existence exposed, she must confront her fears before she loses Jake forever."

What I liked from this read...

I liked how this heroine (Eve)was able to pull herself together after having to go through a terrible time with her ex husband's affair and now after six years getting on with her life.  I liked the introduction of Jake (local fire chief) to Eve as they will meet and their will be an almost instant attraction between the two. Will they be able to deny this?  There will even be lifes experiences that will be similar for each of these two people who were older and both divorced.  I liked how this author was able to bring in the climate..(snow) that was used to play such an important part in this novels setting.  "The Return" was a well written beautiful love story that will keep your attention from the start to the finish.  Be ready to get a romance novel that deals with issues such as cheating, divorce and children of split families that  will be addressed as you are reading through the story and even some drama, humor  along with some twist that will give a interesting ending.  I found the characters very well developed with such emotions  as the reader is taken on this enjoyable ride that will leave you wanting the next sequel to see what will happen next in ...'Return to Newport.'  Would I recommend this read?  YES! 

Betty and Veronica By Elena Aitken

Title:  Betty and Veronica
Author:  Elena Aitken
Publisher:  Ink Blot Communications
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Betty and Veronica" by Elena Aitken....

What was this short read about....

"In sickness and in health...that's what best friends are for, right?

When Addison announces she has breast cancer, her best friend Rori knows she'll do whatever it takes to see her through it. Because after all, what's Betty without her Veronica?"

***Please note, this is a short story, not a full length work of fiction.***

What I thought of this read....

This was a very good well written short story that did have a sad ending that can leave you quite sad.  This author was able to convey to the reader such a story that will touch you as you read through this story of "Betty and Veronica."  One thing is for sure you can't go by the book cover because this story shows the friendship of two women where we find one is healthy and one isn't.  This well written story that will touch you in many ways where you will find some humorous parts but then it brings you to a twist to deep sadness in the end.  I love how this author brought out the support given by a friend  that was so well brought out from the read. This is a easy read that can be read in one setting that will leave you with some thoughts long after the read. Would I recommend?  Yes, especially to a survivor, fighters of this disease, nurturers and helpers  and the rest of us who may  become one ...some day. 

Now You Wanna Come Back By Anna Black

Title:  Now You Wanna Com Back
Author:  Anna Black
Publisher:  Delphine Publications
Series:  Now You Wanna Come Back #1
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"Now You Wanna Come Back" by Anna Black

What was this novel about?

"Letting go is not always easy and in some cases it can be close to impossible, like it was for Leila. She was stuck on her husband Devon and never thought she would ever stop loving him; even through the constant pain and suffering, she still had hopes that he’d come back to her. Cold and unwilling to do right, Devon did what was best for him and that was treat Leila horribly and lie to her time after time, leaving her no choice but to be rescued by another man. Rayshon Johnson, not the perfect man - but a good man - came along and rolled the storm away and gave Leila back all the things that Devon took away. He kissed her where it hurt and helped her to get over her insecurities about herself. By giving her back that confidence, she let go and letting go was the wrong answer for Devon and he refused to let her move on without him. He was determined to get his good thing back - no matter what the cost, he was determined to come back."

What I really liked about  this read.....

The novel was a good that really had the drama all over the placed.  It was a attention grabber because once you start reading you will not want to stop until the end.  This author did a wonderful job about letting one see that you may not be a prize for one but their is someone else there to pick you up.  Yes, I did find it somewhat predicable however I felt the story line was well written.  The characters were all so well developed, well portrayed and believable only to give the reader a interesting read.  In the end I found "Now You Wanna Come Back" was a very realistic read that many will be able to relate to with the main female character having self esteem issues and the two men in her life ...one somewhat weak and the other at times was a idiot.  Now, I will stop here and say you must pick up this read to see for yourself who is who and what is what. Would I recommend this read?  Yes!