Woman At The Top Of The Stairs By: Deidra D. S. Green

Book Description....

"Domestic violence is an unfortunate part of many relationships today. Every year more than 1.5 million women are made victims of this relational epidemic. Has domestic violence become so commonplace that it is no longer considered a problem? Have we grown so accustomed to seeing and hearing about it that we not only turn a blind eye but a deaf ear as well? Meet Gina. She is the woman at the top of the stairs who repeatedly hears the cries and screams of the woman who lives below her as she is constantly victimized at the hands of her partner. Bearing witness to Zenobia’s pain reminds Gina of the abusive life she narrowly escaped from. But Gina can’t get away from the nightmares of her past; the tumultuous reminders of how she was battered and nearly broken at the hands of her contemptuous and menacing husband. Will Gina be like the many and turn her back on Zenobia, leaving her to fend for herself, or will she build an alliance with Zenobia to end her suffering once and for all? Find out in this compelling novel, Woman at the Top of the Stairs."

Title:  Woman At The Top Of The Stairs
Author:  Deidra D. S. Green
Publisher:  Rathsi Publishing
Series:  Book 1
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating  Five
Review:

"Woman At The Top Of The Stairs" by Deidra D. S. Green

My Thoughts....

This author really delivered a 'Domestic Violence' read to the readers that was simply off the chain well written.  This was definitely a good read of  what can happen  to any abusive men when the women they has messed with get fed up with what they have been put through as it was for Gina, the characters ..[victims.....Gina, Zenobia and Yvette].  I will say these  [perpetrators..Mac Percy and Marlon] are in for some real awakening.  The women...Gina, Zenobia had been pushed to the limit and they felt this was the only way in order to survive.  Was this too much in what happened to the perpetrators...the abusers?  Well, I will say you will have to pick up this read and come to your own conclusion. For me, I thought the author did a good job with this tough subject matter that was so well covered  dealing with domestic violence.  






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Let the Church Say By: Deidra D. S. Green

Book Description....

"Sinclair Livingston was as nervous as any blushing bride could be. She’d wished for this day for so long; having dreamed about it since she was a little girl. Sinclair was preparing to marry the man of her dreams. She couldn’t wait to be Mrs. Tyson Jones. All she needed to do was hold it together a little while longer, get through the ceremony and wait for the pronouncement. This should be a breeze, right? Her year and a half of preparation and planning since Tyson proposed were finally coming to fruition. Picking the bridal party, wedding planner, the dress, flowers, the cake, choosing the honeymoon destination and the groom’s gift, her work was done. All Sinclair needed to do now was walk down the aisle to meet her future husband and pray her lover and best friend wouldn’t blow it for her…"

Title:  Let the Church Say
Author:  Deidra D.S. Green
Publisher:  Rathsi Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:

"Let the Church Say..." by Deidra D.S. Green

My Thoughts....

Now this was one of those romantic reads that you thought you knew how it would all come out.  Not! The author takes us on quite a interesting journey.  After all of the planning for this perfect wedding what will come to light and break it up into many pieces.  I found all of these characters...from Sinclair, Tyson Jasmine,  Paul to a few others simply well developed, well portrayed and believable.   Will there be any forgiveness for Sinclair who has committed one awful sin that costed her dearly? However, there will be a wedding but who will be walking down the aisle with her future husband? Well, the reader will just have to pick up this good read to see because it definitely wasn't who I thought it would be in the end. No, I didn't get the happy ending I had hoped for but still the author presents the readers with a good story of  how life is and bad things can happen to good people.

Tempted to Touch By Nigeria Lockley

Book Description...

"Kira Seagram is frustrated by her husband Mason’s zeal for the Lord, so she pours all of her attention into her work and reserves her soprano singing skills for the shower. Kira would rather not use them if she get can’t the adoration and recognition she feels she deserves and doubts she’ll find singing lead for Mason’s choir. When a routine drop off at her son, Nate’s private school turns into a ten-year reunion with her ex-boyfriend, Quincy McAdams, Kira isn’t interested in Mason's half-hearted affection or willing to keep her voice to herself. With a firm offer from Quincy to help Kira cut a demo and possibly revive the love they let die, Kira has some choices to make. When Kira finds herself tempted to touch will she remain faithful to her husband or yield to the desires of her flesh?"

Title:  Tempted to Touch
Author:  Nigeria Lockley
Publisher:  Inheritance Books
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Tempted to Touch" by Nigeria Lockley

My Thoughts...

Wonderful and well written story that will give you much thought long after the read.  The subject matter 'temptation' was right on the mark on what can go wrong so quickly in any marriage whether you are a Christian or not when they try to deal with issues separately there  can be problems as it was for Kira and Mason Seagram.  For these two people from the read you  will see how the enemy almost wrecked their marriage. However, for these two their was a wonderful Pastor Stone who was there with her wisdom which was such a beautiful part of this read that I truly loved. Will Kira and Mason get back to being 'healed, whole and walking in the promises of God?'  Now, I will stop here and say you must pick up this wonderful story that was 'powerful, amazing and beautifully' presented to the readers.   Well done to the author!

No Perfect Affair 2 By: Charmaine Galloway

Book Description....

"Asia, Melody, and Sasha are the queens of all things drama. Jerry Springer has nothing on them. From scandalous affairs and drug induced sexcapades to secret pregnancies and murder in the first degree, these cousins have the personal drama on lock. When backstabbing and betrayal infiltrates their relationship with one another, the once tight trio quickly finds that blood is nowhere near as thick as water. At the end of it all, these chicks ain’t loyal."

Title:  No Perfect Affair 2
Author:  Charmaine Galloway
Publisher:  Racquel Williams Presents
Series:  Book 2
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"No Perfect Affair 2" by Charmaine Galloway

My Thoughts....

Wow, all I can say is this novel picked up from the first novel that featured Asia, Melody and Sasha and yes with all their drama.  The story continues with 'affairs, backstabbing, murder. drama and betrayals' all relating to its title 'No Perfect Affair 2.'  It was so hard to believe these three ladies were ever friends with all the drama they brought on themselves and each other.  Now, I will not talk about those men...Rodney, Lance and Steve.  You will just have to pick up this novel to see for yourself...but also to really understand a little more about this story you must pick up the first novel...No Perfect Affair. You will not want to miss any part of this dramatic read.  In the end I could only say for poor Melody, Asia and yes even Sasha.  What a friendship that went wrong with all the lies and  broken trust.  I have happy at the part of the story where one of the characters were able to make amends with her mother and letting there be forgiveness.  

A Chance of a Lifetime By Marilyn Pappano

Book Description....

"Sometimes love finds you when you least expect it...

To Benita Ford, Tallgrass, Oklahoma, will always be home. It's where her beloved grandmother raised her and where she rode bikes with her two best friends—the man who became her husband and Calvin. And Tallgrass is where she stayed, even after her husband died while serving his country. Now Calvin is home from that same war, and the sensitive, mischievous boy she once knew is today a man scarred by wounds no one else can see. Falling in love with him is something Bennie never imagined.

Tallgrass still haunts Captain Calvin Sweet. Yet it's where he must go to see Bennie—the one woman he always loved but could never have. Calvin regrets so much about what happened years ago. Still he can't deny being with Bennie makes his future feel bright, like anything is possible. But the demons of his past won't be quieted that easily. As old hurts linger, threatening to pull them apart, Calvin and Bennie must take the ultimate risk for the love of a lifetime."

Title:  A Chance of a Lifetime

Author:  Marilyn Pappano

Publisher:  Forever

Series:  Tallgrass # 5

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"A Chance of a Lifetime" by Marilyn Pappano

My Thoughts....

This series really puts more icing on the cake as this is this author's fifth in the Tallgrass series that
features Benita Ford and Captain Calvin Sweet from Tallgrass Oklahoma.  The reader will be presented with a story that will be with the reader long after the read. This read will take the reader to three friends since childhood but after growing up we find that only two of the third friends had remained friends.  What had happened in the total relationship to Calvin, J'Myel and Bennie known as childhoods....'The Three Musketeers?'   Would a death of one of the friends and the return of another from Afghanistan who was now back home suffering with PTSD bring these two friends  [Bennie and Calvin] back together again after many years had passed?  I loved how this author was able to bring into this storyline not only the two main characters but another group of characters were simply off the chart so well developed, defined, well portrayed and believable.  Here are just a few of this wonderful cast of characters..... The Sweets Family, Pickerings Family, Ms. Emmeline, Diez, Joe Cadore, Lucy[Luce],Trinity Adams, Ilena Gomez, John, Tuesday Night Margarita Club members....Carly Clark, Jessy, Fia, Marti, Patricia, Leach, Therese to name a few.  Many of these people will have there own story that will be well mentioned  in this story. The Margarita Club members who were all friends and widows...who had lost a husband in war. I loved this group of ladies!  I found this novel to be very well written by this author...the main question would Calvin and Bennie take the ultimate risk for a love of a lifetime after all is said and done and Bennie learns the whole story of just what had happened between them[Calvin & JMyel?  I don't want to spoil any of it other that say you will have to pick up  this author novel 'A Chance Of A Lifetime.'  It will keep your attention all the way to the end giving her readers a good read.  Would I recommend?  Yes

I received a copy through NOR  in exchange for an honest review.

A Christmas Bride in Pinecraft By: Shelly Shephard Gray

Book Description...

"Christmas has come to Pinecraft in bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray's final Amish Brides of Pinecraft novel, an uplifting story that proves anything is possible when you follow your heart

When manager Beverly Overholt's beloved Orange Blossom Inn is broken into, she's shaken to the core. The inn has been her whole life since arriving in the quaint Amish vacation town of Pinecraft, Florida. Hoping to repair what's been lost, Beverly calls Eric Wagler, the inn's handsome owner. To her surprise, he promises to be on the next flight out of Philadelphia.

Ever since her fiancé jilted her, Beverly's been closed off to love. However, with Eric things feel different. She can't help but be hopeful that their work relationship will turn into something more—even though they are from different worlds. She grew up Amish and is now Mennonite. Eric, on the other hand, grew up on the city streets of Philadelphia. How could they ever find common ground?

But as Beverly and Eric put the inn back together, prepare for Christmas, and even witness romance blossoming for another couple, the trust—and love—between them grows. Will Christmas bring a second chance for Beverly? And if it does, will she be brave enough to take it?"

Title:  A Christmas Bride in Pinecraft

Author:  Shelley Shepard Gray

Publisher:  Avon Inspire

Series:  Amish Brides of Pinecraft # 4

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"A Christmas Bride in Pinecraft" by Shelly Shephard Gray

My Thoughts....

"A Christmas Bride in Pinecraft was a beautifully well written  enchanting Amish/Mennonite romance.  I found this novel somewhat interesting because as I was reading I found out that this was three stories in one that seemed to tie altogether.  I loved how this author presents us with Beverly who manages the Orange Blossom Inn in Pinecraft, Florida and their has been a robbery where now she must call Eric the owner and tell him of this situation.  It seems like since Eric had met Beverly some time ago he had feelings for her, so he leaves Pennsylvania and moves to Pinecraft  Will this bring him closer to Beverly?  What secrets did Eric have than may destroy any feelings Beverly may have for him?  Will these two people be able to find common ground and love?  But where there is 'forgiveness, mercy, happiness and good will to all men'  will there be any good from all of the unexpected  obstacles that are put in front of them?   Well, this is a Christmas novel so what will happen after the robbery at the inn?   Be ready for a read that will give you humor, tears and even finding yourself cheering your favorite character on as you will see 'such fear, faith, love. devotion, redemption and second chances' that is displayed in this well told story.  The main questions....  Will Beverly be able to face her fears and move on after the robbery?  Beverly has gone to a lots and when it looks like she may even love again will her faith be put to the test?   How will this Amish community react to a marriage between Beverly and Eric?   Now, to get all of those questions answered and much more you will just have to pick up this fantastic Christmas novel to see just how much it will capture and warm your heart.

What I extremely liked about this novel was how this author was able to bring out the realization of how there were young people going hungry in the town of Pinecraft and that solution to the person who had robbed and vandalized Beverly property was also wonderfully presented.

I received a copy through NOR  in exchange for an honest review.

Cowboy Take Me Away By Soraya Lane

Book Description...

"The King brothers are three of the wealthiest, most hard-riding heartbreakers in the great state of Texas. And it takes a rare breed of woman to lasso one of their hearts...

NEVER SAY NEVER

As a veterinarian and single mother, Hope Walker knows how to handle most emergencies, inside and out. But when she shows up at the sprawling cattle ranch belonging to Chase King. Hope finds herself in a state of panic: How could Chase be even hotter after all these years? And why does Hope feel more attracted to him than ever?

WHEN IT COMES TO LOVE

Chase can't believe that Hope - the gorgeous, brilliant woman who disappeared after one blazing night of passion - has walked back into his life. After all this time he still thinks of her as the one who got away . . . and he's not about to lose her now. But is Hope ready to get back in the saddle and ride into the sunset with the cowboy of her dreams? Or will a long-buried secret rise to the surface - and tear the two reunited lovers apart?"

Title:  Cowboy Take Me Away

Author:  Soraya Lane

Publisher:  Martin's Paperbacks

Series:  The Texas Kings # 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Cowboy Take Me Away" by Soraya Lane

My Thoughts....

I liked this well written novel that dealt with a sweet romance.  I liked this author's novels and wanted to see what was 'Cowboy Take Me Away.' There will be a lot of question asked as the  reader reads through 'Cowboy Take Me Away.' Like... Who knew that after one night of passion and now many years later  these two Hope Walker and Chase King would meet back up again.  What affect will this meeting have on these two especially after a big secret comes out that had been kept from Chase? Now, this will not be the only thing but what other complications will their be for these two especially when a 'special high quality sperm' has come up missing from Kinds Ranch Herd?  Who is behind all of this? This will be one interesting read as the reader will see how this author gives the readers a wonderful well written story.   Will these two be able to solve this plot as it unfolds for the both of them? How will these two make it through as this family's amazing journey begins?  Now, to get all of these questions answered  and a lot more you will have to pick up this good read to see how well this author tells it so well to  the readers.Would I recommend this heart warming love story?   YES!

I received a copy through NOR  in exchange for an honest review.

Duke's Are Forever By: Anna Harrington

Book Description....

"ALL'S FAIR IN LOVE

Battlefields and barrooms hold much more interest for Edward Westover, Duke of Swarthmore, than a little girl's fondness for dolls and lace. When he takes possession of his enemy's estate, everything that villain held dear—including his daughter—belongs to Edward. Hire a governess, arrange a dowry, give a few reassurances, and be off on his way—that's Edward's plan. But he's in for the shock of his life. For his new ward is a beautiful, impetuous, and utterly irresistible woman...

...AND WAR

Kate Benton is stunned. Who is this arrogant, infuriating man who's invited himself into her home and taken over her life? Her vow: to do everything in her power to convince him to leave her—and Brambly House—alone. Yet as chilly days melt into sultry nights, Kate sees glimpses of kindness underneath Edward's cool façade . . . and a passionate nature that takes her breath away. There's so much she doesn't know about this man. But does she dare trust this devilish duke with her heart?"

Title:  Duke's Are Forever

Author:  Anna Harrington

Publisher:  Forever

Series:  The Secret Life of Scoundrels # 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Duke's Are Forever" by Anna Harrington...

My Thoughts...

This novel was quite interesting in all of its drama and emotional storyline with so much going on in this historical romantic setting.  The author will gives the reader a story that will have lots of 'passion and even love scenes' with these two main characters...Kate and Edward.  For Kate we find her to be a independent heroine and Edward a powerful aristocrat.  Wow, what all will happen as these two take this journey together. Where was Kate's father and why had a 'Duke' become her guardian? After they meet will they be able to fight the attraction that have for each other?  Will Kate ever get the true sense of what all her father had done to her?  We find that a lots will come out as we read "Duke's Are Forever" and we see Kate and Edward falling for each other.  However, when Kate doesn't obey Edward's order to to have no communication with that father of hers....things change very quickly for these two.  And after a night together Edward ....well, I don't want to spoil it ....I want the reader to pick up this good read to see what happens next for these two.  Be ready for a read that will have the two main characters head butting through most of of the read that will helps make this one interesting Regency world read.. Now, why is this? I liked how this author gave the reader a real intriguing read of seeing the story that is  'seductive, imaginative and a  bedazzling' that  come to a good resolution showing a delightful happier ever after ending.

I received a copy through NOR  in exchange for an honest review.


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The Gift of a Charm By: Melissa Hill

Book Description,,,

"From Melissa Hill, author of A Gift from Tiffany's, comes The Gift of a Charm-another New York Christmas love story to restore your faith in miracles

Holly O'Neill knows that every charm bracelet tells a story. Many years ago she was sent one with just a single charm attached. The charms have been appearing ever since, often at challenging times, as if her mysterious benefactor knows exactly when she needs a little magic in her life.

As a result, Holly's bracelet is her most prized possession. So when she finds someone else's charm bracelet, she feels she has to try to reunite it with its owner-even if the only clues she has to follow are the charms themselves."

Title:  The  Gift of a Charm

Author:  Melissa Hill

Publisher:  St Martin's Griffin

Reviewed By: Arlena Dean

Rating: 5

Review:

"The Gift of a Charm" by Melissa Hill

My Thoughts....

This was a beautifully told story of  'Christmas love to restore your faith in miracles.'  I liked how
this author was able to present us a story that started with a 'charm bracelet' being found at 'The Secret Closet' [resale shop] and with Holly's desire to return it to its rightful owner.  Why did this charm bracelet mean so much to Holly?  Who was this 'mysterious benefactor' who has been sending Holly these charms?  The characterization of each one in the novel were all well developed, defined, well portrayed and believable and with this happening around the holiday season was the  perfect setting.
This novel will be about two stories...one dealing with Holly and her son and the other being about Greg and his family. I will say it was quite a journey as Holly goes on these hunts trying to find the rightful owner of this charm bracelet.  Now, how this all comes out will be a quite interesting read where you will have to pick up this good read to see how well this story is presented.  If you are looking for a good holiday read or maybe a good read at anytime,  I would recommend 'The Gift of Charm' to you.

I received a copy through NOR  in exchange for an honest review.

When Somebody Loves You (The Southern Belle Book Club# 1) By: Shirley Jump

Book Description....

"First in a new series from the New York Times bestselling author of the hugely popular Sweetheart Sisters novels!

At heart, Elizabeth Palmer is a practical Jersey girl. And her life reflects that—until everything suddenly falls apart.  In a bid to change her luck, the intrepid reporter accepts a job to write a story on a reclusive quarter horse breeder in Chatham Ridge, Georgia. To her surprise, she finds herself settling into the warm, inviting town—even joining the Southern Belle Book Club—and craving the company of the rancher she’s there to interview….

Hunter McCoy has good reason to keep his distance from the determined reporter. Tragedy has taught him to stick to things that don’t require his heart. But he can’t seem to resist the vulnerability he detects beneath Elizabeth’s tough demeanor.

But when Hunter is faced with the possibility of a terrible loss and shuts Elizabeth out, she will have to prove to Hunter that having somebody love you can heal all wounds…"

Title:  When Somebody Loves You

Author:  Shirley Jump

Publisher: Berkley
Series:  The Southern Belle Book Club # 1

Reviewed By: Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"When Somebody Loves You" by Shirley Jump

My Thoughts....

This was a first of  'The South Belle Bookclub series' for this author that was a well written story of
'dreams and broken hearts'  for the two main characters...Elizabeth and Hunter.  How these two came
together with Elizabeth's now being new magazine writer job [wanting to follow her dreams]now hired as a freelance writer doing a story about Hunter's ranch. Both Elizabeth and Hunter have quite a past...with Elizabeth leaving Jersey, her job, a  wired mother and a fiance who dumped her to her new job in Chatham Ridge. Now, meeting up with Hunter who is trying to run his Quarter Horse ranch with no thanks from his father with his gambling habit, also dealing with the grief and guilt of the death of his fiance. Now, we have Elizabeth on her new job trying to work with Hunter to get her story.  How will this Elizabeth effect Hunter quite lifestyle?   Will Hunter be able to come out of the rut he has been in due to all that has gone on  in his life for some time?  There will be some interesting secondary characters that will come into play in this book club that will really give the reader some humor.  To get how this story will all come out you will have to pick up "When Somebody Loves You" to see for yourself how well it is presented by this author to her readers.  Be ready to some well developed characters in this small town, a beautiful plot and a sexy romance.

I received a copy through NOR  in exchange for an honest review.

Forever This Time By: Maggie McGinnis

Book Description....

"Forever This Time is the story of Josie Kendrew, who returns to her tiny Vermont hometown after ten years' absence when her father has a stroke, and Ethan Miller, her jilted high school sweetheart, who's taken her place as the CFO of the Kendrew family business: running Snowflake Village—a "Santa's Village"—style amusement park.

Josie, now a successful therapist with a Boston practice, isn't sure how she feels about being back in Echo Lake. In some ways, things have changed a lot; Ethan's got an MBA, seems to have something going with Molly, her childhood best friend, and he even owns the beautiful Victorian they'd always talked about buying together. But in other ways, the place is exactly the same, with reminders of the heartbreak that drove Josie away lurking around every corner. When Josie's "Little Sister" Avery died of cancer at the age of ten, the grief nearly destroyed her, and ultimately inspired her choice of career. It also caused a hurt so deep she knew she couldn't stay in Echo Lake, surrounded by memories. And she's not going to stay now; as soon as her dad's health improves, she's headed right back to Boston, to her therapy practice and her quiet apartment. To her lonely, safe life.

As for Ethan, he's not all that pleased to see the woman he once loved. It took a long time to pick up the pieces Josie left behind, he's proud of the work he's done to bring Snowflake Village into the 21st century, and he's worried that if Josie finds out about his project to honor Avery's memory, she'll get the wrong idea. He's not planning to make it easy for Josie to come back, and he's not going to pretend that all is forgiven. They can't just pick up where they left off… right?"

Title: Forever This Time

Author:  Maggie McGinnis

Publisher:  St. Martin's Paperbacks

Series:  Echo Lake # 1

Reviewed By: Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Forever This Time" by Maggie McGinnis

My Thoughts....

This author really out shines herself with this well written story...its unique plot and main and secondary characters that will keep your attention all the way to the end. From this story the reader gets a wonderful heartwarming and emotional love story being about Josie and Ethan from a small Vermont town of Echo Park. This was a love that was... then it wasn't?  Why was this?  What was this 'history, passion and pain' before the story gets to this part for these two people? What drove Josie away from Echo Park to Boston for ten years?   Now that Josie was back home due to the fact her father's stoke will there be any forgiveness in all that had happen and why she left in the first place?  Will Josie come to turns with her past, present and future?  What was up with Jose's mom[who had been a drunk] and that Molly[who was a ex friend]?  Will this be a happiness in this season of Christmas with all of the bitterness that Josie has had in her past?  Will there be a second chance for Josie and Ethan[who was her ex] in this complexed relationship that is fulled with so much emotions and family dynamics?  I will say with this novel being so emotional you may need a tissue or two especially near the conclusion of the read.  This was a good read just seeing how this heroine has changed and being able to trust again.

Even thought 'Forever This Time' was full of sadness and grief in the end the reader gets a much uplifting romantic story it will be a very intriguing long journey to see if Josie and Ethan will get back together again.  If you would love a good love story I would definitely recommend this one to you as a good read.

I received a copy through NOR  in exchange for an honest review.

Hell on Heels By: Victoria Vane

Book Description....

"Some Odds are Meant to be Played...

PLACE YOUR BET

The Hotel Rodeo in Las Vegas has seen better days, but managing partner Ty Morgan has come up with a way to return it to its former glory. His plan looks promising until the unthinkable happens. Suddenly Ty is working for the boss’s daughter. And Miss Monica Brandt, hot as she may be, doesn’t share his vision…

ROLL THE DICE

She left a fabulous career and a frustrated fiancé in New York to move to Vegas and save her father’s investment. But now Monica is locking horns with a sexy cowboy-turned-businessman. What does Ty think he can do that she can’t? All Monica knows is that she doesn’t dare trust him—or is it herself she doesn’t trust...

AND WIN

The battle lines are drawn. The stakes are high. And the attraction can’t be denied—especially the more closely Ty and Monica have to work together. Some odds are just meant to be played, and with chemistry this electric, it may be time to grab life by the horns…"

Title:  Hell on Heels

Author:  Victoria Vane

Publisher:  Kensington Books

Series:  Hotel Rodeo #1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Hell on Heels" by Victoria Vane

My Thoughts....

Well,this was one of those read that had me shaking my head trying to truly understand the reasoning behind the two man characters...Ty and Monica.  Her father and his best bud was sick [who suffered a stroke] and from that should have had them showing more compassion not only to each other but most definitely to the sick father and friend. I really didn't see hardly any connection with these two characters other than their  sex appeal to each other. Monica had been been asked by her father to come and help his closest friend Ty to come and help renovate a hotel but it seems all she had on her mind was to sell. Now just why was that?  I will say I had trouble liking either one of these two characters and then how this story ended was simply so heart breaking for me.  Oh well, I guess we will have to wait and get the next series...of the Hotel Rodeo in 'Two to Wrangle' to get the next part of this story.

This book was provided as an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.

Unleashed Colours of Love Book 3 By: Kathryn Taylor

Book Description..Sensual. Romantic. Kathryn Taylor.

Like a fairy-tale, it should have been so wonderful: after a year of marriage, Grace Huntington still experiences undreamt-of passionate bliss. But stubborn doubts keep eating away at her. Despite the many happy moments when she feels close to Jonathan, sometimes he seems just as inscrutable as he did at the start. And now she has something to confess, something she knows will put an enormous strain on their relationship.

Finally, it's what all the COLOURS OF LOVE fans have been waiting for: the continuation of Jonathan and Grace's captivating love story.Unleashed is the third book in the COLOURS OF LOVE trilogy."

Title:  Unleashed Colours Love

Author:  Kathryn Taylor

Publisher:  Bastei Entertainment

Series:  Colours of Love # 3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Unleashed Color of Love" by Kathryn Taylor

My Thoughts...

So, this is the third book 'Unleashed Colours of Love Series' and I a so happy to say the reader will get the rest of this short story of Grace and Jonathan who happen to be in their first year of marriage. How is it going for them?  What will happen as Grace begins to notice that Jonathan is acting strange now this is making her nervous and worried.  Is this justified?  Well it seems like Yuuto [the enemy] is back in the picture and along with that Grace has a secret that she has been keeping from Jonathan. Why is she so worried about these situations?  Well, to find out how all of this will come out you will just have to pick up this author's presentation to see how well it was done. As a matter of fact....  I loved its shortness, sweetness and to the point!

This book was provided as an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.

Uncovered Colours of Love Book 2 By: Kathryn Taylor

Book Description...

"She's fallen for him - hook, line, and sinker. Grace knows exactly how dangerous her feelings for Jonathan Huntington are, but her love for him nevertheless grows stronger each day she spends near him. Is he really as indifferent as he seems? Does Jonathan only see her as a willing plaything? When Grace tries to force him into showing his true colors, it leads to disaster ...

Kathryn Taylor has been a writer since childhood - publishing her first story when she was eleven years old. From then on, she knew that she wanted to be a professional author one day. After a few career detours and a happy ending in her personal life, her dream has finally come true: UNBOUND - COLOURS OF LOVE is her first novel."

Title:  Uncovered  Colours of Love

Author:  Kathryn Taylor

Publisher:  Bastei Entertainment

Series:  Colours of Love # 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Four 

Review:

"Uncovered  Colours of Love" by  Kathryn Taylor

My Thoughts...

After reading the the first book of the 'Colours of Love Series' I knew I had to read the rest of this story since it ended with a cliffhanger to see what would become of this sexy situation that Grace  she has with Jonathan.  To my surprise the novel was starting to make a little more sense to me how this author was presenting the  story all to the reader.  At times I began thinking that Grace was getting a little more sense and asserting herself in with just who Jonathan really is.  Grace will get a surprise when Jonathan 'literally fights for her.'  Now, what was that all about?  The other characters from Sarah, Alex to a few others that will come into play being so well developed really adds to this well written story.  To see how this story will all come out you will have to pick up the second series to see how well this author will bring it all out to the readers.  I liked this series a little better than the first one.  Now what will the next series bring us?  I guess we will have to see in 'Unleashed Colors of Love #3'  This is definitely one of those stories that will have 'drama, family issues, emotional insecurities, unfortunate past' and in the end the reader will get  a twist on love and romance.

This book was provided as an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.

Unbound Colours of Love # 1 By: Kathryn Taylor

Book Description....

"Grace is young and has led a sheltered life. She hasn't yet taken much of an interest in men. It's only while doing an internship in London, where she meets the alluring Jonathan Huntington, that our sleeping beauty is awoken from her slumber. Jonathan is rich, incredibly attractive, and stems from British royalty - but he is a far cry from Prince Charming. He lures Grace ever deeper into his world of sinister passion, and she is sucked further and further into the maelstrom of her own growing desires. But when Jonathan demands she do the unthinkable to prove her love for him, she realizes just how dangerous her feelings for him are.

Kathryn Taylor has been a writer since childhood - publishing her first story when she was eleven years old. From then on, she knew that she wanted to be a professional author one day. After a few career detours and a happy ending in her personal life, her dream has finally come true: UNBOUND - COLOURS OF LOVE is her first novel."

Title: Unbound Colours of Love Author: Kathryn Taylor Publisher: Bastei Entertainment Series: Color of Love # 1 Reviewed By: Arlena Dean Rating: 4 Review: "Unbound Colours of Love" by Kathryn Taylor My Thoughts.... This twenty two year old naive Grace Lawson from Chicago was delighted to go her three month internship in London at the 'Huntington Technology Ventures.' However, Grace never knew she would meet up with the owner Jonathan Huntington and to become his 'sex slave.' NO! What impressed Grace so Title: Unbound Colours of Love Author: Kathryn Taylor Publisher: Bastei Entertainment Series: Color of Love # 1 Reviewed By: Arlena Dean Rating: 4 Review: "Unbound Colours of Love" by Kathryn Taylor My Thoughts.... This twenty two year old naive Grace Lawson from Chicago was delighted to go her three month internship in London at the 'Huntington Technology Ventures.' However, Grace never knew she would meet up with the owner Jonathan Huntington and to become his 'sex slave.' NO! What impressed Grace so much with this guy to want to do this? I didn't understand after Grace finds out that Jonathan did not do relationships because only wanted wild sex. Why oh why would Grace want this? To me she deserved better than that. I found this story was simply off the chart crazy to me. However, I will say that Grace walked into this with her eyes wide open. Grace knew what she was getting into because she had been told by several people to be careful of Jonathan. It seems like she wasn't happy until she went to the club with Jonathan only to find out she didn't care for this...REALLY?? No, I didn't care of Jonathan at all! Oh, well I see will have to get this next series 'Uncovered....Colours of Love #2' to see what next will come next of Grace as she seem to want to hang on to this Jonathan. Even though I didn't like many things that went on in the story I did see that this author really tells a story that will keep your attention till the end and will leave you wanting to know what will come next for these two people. This book was provided as an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.

Ghetto Roulette: Playing With A Broken Heart By: Dale Ridley

Book Description....

"Sasha and Jeana are two women that believe they are on their way to bigger and better things by any means necessary.
To them all that matter is the bottom line of lining their pockets.
Until fate is taking out of their hands as past dark deeds come to collect what is do.
And they find themselves caught up in a game that has a tendency of killing all it's players.
When the stakes are raised even higher, will they risk it all to save themselves or the closest ones to them as concrete quicksand threaten to swallow them all.
Or will they try and cheat a game that many have lost?"

Title: Ghetto Roulette:  Playing With A Broken Heart

Author:  Dale Ridley

Publisher:  True  Glory Publication

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five 

Review:

"Ghetto Roulette" by Dale Ridley

My Thoughts....

This novel ..a urban fiction suspenseful story was one moving read that will keep you turning the pages till the end.  From the characters Sasha, Jeana, Mercury, Marissa and all the  other main and secondary ones with all of there different traits and personalities.  All I can say is that this author really knows how to deliver to the reader a read that will be very detailed with a little bit of it all...not to leave out the sexual scenes and one fast moving story. Hopefully Jasmine and Asia will be safe with all they have to go through. Now, I know you are probably asking who they are...well, to find out you must pick up 'Ghetto Roulette' to see just what all has gone on and what  Jasmine and Asia has to do with this story. Be ready with the twist and turns that will keep your interest in the read as it flows so well with the title 'Ghetto Roulette.'   All I can say to get a real understanding of this novel the reader will have to pick up this good read to see what all will be going on in this read and in the end beware you will be left with a cliff hanger...and you will have to pick up this author next series to get the continuation of this story in 'Ghetto Roulette 2.'

The Devil Wears Diamonds, By: Jhordynn

Book Description...

"Nicci will be anything in life that she needs to be... as long as the price is right. The only thing she refuses to be is a damsel in distress. Youthful curiosity revealed that men are more valuable as dead husbands. The master plan and blueprint for her life that she has laid out on her crystal table doesn’t include fear. She’s not even afraid of the deadliest weapon: karma. Nicci never waits for a window of opportunity; she knocks a wall down and creates her own. She lives by one rule and one rule only: if you can’t join ‘em, BEAT ‘EM...Until she accidentally on purpose tastes a gulp of kryptonite—love. Detrek makes her forget all about her blueprint on her crystal table. For the first time in life, Nicci only desires to be happy… for free. Will Detrek make her change her ways forever? Can Nicci turn away from her evil ways? Is this love for real, or is it just another scheme in her blueprint?"

Title:  The Devil Wears Diamonds
Author: Jhordynn
Publisher:  Jhordynn
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"The Devil Wears Diamonds" by Jhordynn

My Thoughts....

This is definitely one of those reads that will give you reason to ponder long after the read.  This author really give the reader quite a intriguing read that will keep your attention just wondering what is coming next.  The character Nicci will really be someone to not mess with especially with "The master plan and blueprint she had for her life which didn't include fear."  Now, why was this?  What had happen to Nicci for her to be like this?  What will happen when 'karma' shows up?  I liked how this author shows us that maybe there will be a change when Nicci Detrek.  Will Detrek be able to make Nicci forget "about her blueprint on her crystal table."  Will Nicci receive the happiness she desired in her life and turn away from all of her killing ways?  Will Detrek be their for her once he knows all the badand evil things that Nicci has done in her life?  And Nicci's friends...how do they play in this story?  My favorite part was that dream!  To get this complete story you will have to pick up this novel "The Devil Wears Diamonds" to read for yourself how well this author presents it to her readers.  It will be a complete story that will leave you saying wow.  At the end of this novel the author also gives us a wonderful well written poem...'Sober Thoughts' that really sums up this whole story. Thank you to the author for a very intriguing well written novel.

Greek and Fiona: A Love Story By Pebbles Star and Chase Moore

Book Description....

"Fiona is a 21-year old good girl from the suburbs, who's always lived her life accordingly. However, everything changes the night she meets an immediate member of the Konkwo Mafia Family. Handsome, powerful, rich, and charming, Greek is everything she's ever wanted...There's only one problem though. She already has a man in her life—one that is willing to do whatever it takes to keep her where he wants her.

Tyler has been putting up with her boyfriend Gunner's shtick for the last five years. Fighting off the birds he's constantly cheating with and taking the rap for a drug charge are just a couple of the things she's endured along the way. Tyler soon finds herself questioning her own morals and relationship after an attractive new prospect comes in her life. But with a crazy, erratic African boyfriend, falling for someone else might not be the safest or smartest decision. Will Tyler get the storybook ending she envisioned, or will her toxic relationship ultimately be her demise?"

Title:  Greek and Fiona:  A Love Story

Author:  Pebbles Star and Chase Moore

Publication:  Jade Publications

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five 

Review:

"Greek and Fiona" by Pebbles Star and Chase Moore

My Thoughts...

This was one read that the reader will find so much going on that you will not want to put down till the very end because you will not want to miss any of what happens in this story.  The characters will give the reader quite a read full of  'action, scandal, lying and oh yes steamy sex.' We have Fiona, Tyler, Gunner, Chance, Skylar, Cruz to a few others not named were  some interesting people that will keep your interest turning the pages. By the end of this story who will be left standing and alive... especially when it comes to Greek and Fiona?  The readers will have to get this author's part two to get the rest of this story.

UnLove Me - The Angels Warriors Complete Trilogy By: Dawn Martens

Book Description...

"All 3 Ebooks, together as 1 paperback! UnKiss Me After years suffering abuse at the hands of her father and protecting her sister, Eden Blake takes a chance. She calls on the Angels Warriors MC asking for help. She just never expected that call would bring her face to face with her past—Jasper “Angel” Hughes. He’s the first man she ever loved and the new President of the Angels Warriors MC. And now, he’s vowing to win Eden back and never let her go again. UnTouch Me Lilly Mayer has always lived a simple life. She’s loyal – maybe too loyal since it’s cost her the love of her life. And that love, Vincent “Zippo” Torino, is willing to use her loyalty to Eden as his own escape from a hell he created. He doesn’t give a damn that he’s leaving the woman he loves, pregnant with his child, behind – not when he has to protect his own destructive secret. And not when he’s sure she’s going to beat him to the punch and leave first. UnBreak This Heart After she’s betrayed by her husband, Hilary DeVaughn, is done. But when she gets a phone call to come back home for Eden years later, she drops everything to return to the place where her heart was shattered. When she finally hands Mason “Reaper” Harris divorce papers, will he be willing to let her go so easily? Or will their secrets keep them torn apart?"

Title:  UnLove Me
Author:  Dawn Martens
Publisher: D. M.
Series: The Angels Warriors Complete Trilogy
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"UnLove Me" by Dawn Martens

My Thoughts...

What a trilogy read 'The Angels Warriors MC' series.  It was such a pleasure to get three reads all in one read. This novel was wonderfully well written.  I did find that to get the complete story you will have to read it in order.  Book one ...'UnKiss Me' was of Eden's and Jasper's story.  Book two...'UnTouch Me,' was of Lily and Vinny's  and Book three 'UnBreak Me' was of Hilary and Mason's story.  I loved how these the three stories intertwined with each other.  Each one of these stories deals with a secrets that had been kept and handled. 'UnLove Me' is full of suspense, lies, infidelity, revenge, sexy steamy scenes along with all the drama,[dysfunctional family drama], mystery, misunderstandings, humor, and sadness that will keep you turning the pages till the end.  It will not be hard to keep up with the three stories because the author will repeat some of the scenes from a previous  book 1, 2, or 3.   I will say I liked that for the most part of the stories being repeated as the story in that particular part of the book will flow and intertwine  very well into the rest of the story.

All six of these main characters were quite some individuals with some being wilder and even living some real crazy lives  but considering that this is a motorcycle group story, I guess that would be expected.  Along with the characters being well developed, portrayed and somewhat believable the reader will get ones one intriguing story after it all said and done.  Now, I will say be ready for a read that is 'brutally violent, abusive, emotional and downright hard to read at times,' but if you can get passed all of that and continue on to the very end of this story,  one will find  you have one heck of a good trilogy that I would recommend to you.

This book was provided as an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.

What You Took From Me: Loving An Opportunist By: Dale Ridley

Book Description...

"Shaun Perry thinks he is a ladies man. And the way women respond, shows him that he is right.
Just released from prison, he's trying to explore all the things he missed. But when he finds himself
In a nightmare of events from those same choices, he wonders what went wrong. Especially when he finds himself the suspect in a murder investigation. Now he must find the person behind it while dealing with a woman that seemed to become obsessed. And to make matters worse, she holds the power to send him back inside. He will not go back to prison. Especially for the rest of his life. He would rather embrace the soft dirt of a grave first."

Title:  What You Too From Me:  Loving An Opportunist

Author:  Dale Ridley

Publisher:  True Glory Publications

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"What You Took From Me:  Loving An Opportunist" by Dale Ridley

My Thoughts.....

Interesting read that will definitely leave you wanting the next series to see what will all

come of this story with Shaun as he seems to be maneuvered by his patrol officer, Maria.  

Quagmire By: Brian W. Smith

Book Description....

"Would you protect your brother if he committed a murder? What if the person your brother murdered was related to your spouse? In his trademark style, Bestselling Author, Brian W. Smith has penned a mind blowing novel that will have readers questioning whether marriage vows trump a sibling bond. The suspense is capped off by a mind blowing surprise ending."

Title:  Quagmire
Author:  Brian W. Smith
Publisher:  B.W.S.
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Quagmire" by Brian W. Smith

My Thoughts.....

All I can say say wow...what a well written intriguing story that will definitely keep you on the edge
of your seating with all the suspense, twist and turns and drama of this plotted read.  The characters
from Rosie, Eric, Ivy, Nick, Carl, Connie and a few others ....will keep you reading to see what will be coming next   The reader will find all being so well developed, defined, portrayed, realistic and oh so believable giving you one read that will leave you shaking your head had saying wow...what a story this author has given the readers.  Wife. husband,sister, sister, brother brother...what a situation that these people find themselves in and in the end...well it all comes out will there be a  showing the 'thin line between love and hate'  as one will see from the read how this author shacks it all up especially between the two brothers!  This novel is one to definitely check out if you are up to a suspenseful read with some dark secrets  because when it's all said and done ...well this is where I say you must pick this one up and read it for yourself to see how well this author presents it to the reader. I just wished it had an epilogue because I wish there had been more about Rose and Eric in how things turned out for them after all was said and done.

The S.W.A. P. Game By: Brian W. Smith

Book Description.....

"Malik and Sheila Batiste have been married for 13 years. They have it all; good jobs, a beautiful home, and a handsome son, but they do have one major problem-their sex life is terrible. In an effort to spice up their sex life, the couple gives in to curiosity and decides to "swing" with their neighbors, Darnell and Stacy Muldrue. Their decision to play the S.W.A.P. (Sex With Another Partner) Game leads to marital problems and more drama than the couple ever bargained for."

Title:  The S.W.A.P. Game
Author:  Brian W. Smith
Publisher:  Hollygrove Publishing
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"The S.W.A.P." Brian W. Smith

My Thoughts....

This author really knows how to keep the readers attention till the very end.  The story dealing with Sheila/Malik,Darnell/Stacy and let's not leave out Sheila's friend Nikki.  This was quite a interesting read that dealt with swinging[ 'The SWAP GAME'].  How will this all turn out?  Well, with all of this story's twist and turns the reader will be lead to quite a intriguing ride all the way till the very end.  What I really appreciated from the read what the message that was sent from the author.  Will the readers get this message?  I did!  In the end will Sheila get what she wanted from her marriage?

I liked the 'Ten Book Club Debate Questions and bonus question at the end of this novel.  These really give you reason to ponder what would you have done if you were in that situation?

Slave [Novella] By: Brian W.Smith

Book Description....

"Cleo Strong is an award winning best selling Erotica Author. He meets with a book club to discuss his latest best seller, and they refuse to let him leave...until he "performs" as good as the characters in his novels."

Title:  Slave [A Novella]
Author:  Brian W. Smith
Publisher: B.W. S.
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Slave [Novella]"  By:  Brian W. Smith

My Thoughts....

Well, I guess going to a 'Book Club Meeting' will never be the same as it was for author
Cleo Strong.  How this set up was made by his publishing agent who was supposed to be working
for him in getting the best deals, however, I guess there are some people you can not trust. In the
end well, I will stop here and let you read it for yourself to see how Vivian was rewarded. I did
enjoy this short story that was definitely brought to a satisfying end.

The Perfect Lie ..a novella By: Brian W. Smith

Book Description....

"Treena Carter is about to marry the love of her life, Cedric Calderone, in one week. But, she has one problem - her ex-husband and thirteen year old daughter are determined to stop the wedding. And they come up with the "perfect lie" to make sure the wedding doesn't happen."

Title:  The Perfect Lie
Author:  Brian W. Smith
Publisher:  B.W.S.
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"The Perfect Lie"  by Brian W. Smith

My Thoughts....
Wow, what a story that one can even find realistic in our every day life. For one lie that can cause such a problem from what is the truth was truly what this story was all about. For a grown man to plant a seed of a lie  like this into his daughter's mind was really something.  But there is a God that sees and knows all and with us just knowing that ...we know it will come out in the end,  This was a wonderful written story that will let you ponder long after the read and yes even may have you in tears.