Pop Manga Coloring Book: A Surreal Journey Through a Cute, Curious, Bizarre, and Beautiful World By Camilla d'Errico

Book Description....

"Manga artist and Pop Surrealism superstar Camilla d Errico presents her first everadult coloring book, filled with portraits, patterns, and the stunning artwork her fans and collectors have come to love.
This one-of-a-kind book offers you the opportunity tocollaborate with d Errico, adding your colors to her gorgeous black and whitelinework. Featuring everything from haunting and surreal character portraitsto pages filled with patterns and designs all rendered in d Errico sinimitable style, "Pop Manga Coloring Book "is guaranteed toprovide hours of coloring fun and excitement."

Title:  Pop Manga Coloring Book

Author:  Camilla d'Errico

Publisher:  Watson-Guptill

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: 5

Rating:

Review:

"Pop, Manga Coloring Book" by Camilla d'Errico

My Thoughts....

Wow, what a beautiful coloring book in Manga 'black and white' lined work.   If you are looking a coloring book with some 'incredible patterns' you have come to the right place where one can find not only faces but whole images that are simply beautiful detailed. This was definitely a good book showing different coloring techniques when you are painting.   I especially liked the varieties  that are presented in the different themes where I found them all so creative and let me not leave out the 'step by step instructions' on this author's technique.  In the end all I have left to say is that coloring book is full of details where the quality is simply fantastic.  So, get ready to color!

I received this from Bloggingforbooks in exchange for honest review.

COVET: Deceptive Desires (A BWWM New Adult Romance) By: Amarie Avant

Book Description....

"For Jonathan Liam Delacroix Lemaitre, everything revolved around the love of his life: Raven Shaw. But they were too young, too destructive and too clueless.

Raven thought they would always be friends, yet Liam knew a different truth. The son to a vast Legacy, he is shipped off to Paris at a tender age, leaving Raven to fend for herself, full of questions and doubts.

Now, he is back in town and determined to get back in her good graces. Gone is the clumsy, fat boy he once was. In his place stands a man ready to take on the world, with the woman he wants at his side. Raven, on the other hand, can see the new man but still searches for echoes of her friend. Who is this guy that has swept into her life? He was Liam, but he wasn’t HER Liam…. And she wasn’t sure if he ever could be."

Title:  Covet: Deceptive Desires

Author:  Amarie Avant

Publisher:  Blu Savant Press

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:  

"Covet:  Deceptive Desires" by Amarie Avant

Definitely a attention Grabber!  

Be ready for a little bit of it all as this author will take you through lots of 'deception, drama 

 hurt, secrets and lies' with all the twist and turns with such  emotions that will keep you on the edge of your seat.  

What will happen to these two young friends .... lovers....Raven and Liam?

And what about those other intriguing characters in this  good read...some you like others

well...still well developed, portrayed and believable giving the reader one

heck of a good read.  It was quite interesting as the readers will be lead to see the 'past and present collide' in this story.  However, we will be left waiting [cliffhanger]for the next series to see how this 

story will all come out.

Meant To Be Mine By: Lisa Marie Perry

Book Description....

"Loving him was hard. Wanting him was so damn easy . . .

Sofia Mercer may have been sick as a teen, but she’s no delicate flower. And she’s proven it by making it on her own and starting a new life away from the town that turned against her, away from the boy who broke her already fragile heart. But when her aunt Luz dies unexpectedly, leaving Sofia with a mountain of regrets and the keys to a quirky boutique, Sofia has no choice but to return to Cape Cod. Only, this new life in her old town comes with complications.

Burke Wolf was Sofia’s first love—a relationship that burned bright and went up in flames. Seeing him again, Sofia can’t help but get caught up in that all-too-familiar tornado of passion and pain. He’s battled his own demons—that much is clear. But Sofia can’t afford to be careless with her heart . . . and loving Burke again might just break it completely."

Title:  Meant To Be Mine

Author:  Lisa Marie Perry

Publisher:  Forever

Series:  Guilty Pleasures # 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Meant To Be Mine" by Lisa Marie Perry

This first series of Guilty Pleasures...."Meant To Be Mine" was a wonderful read with its beautiful setting in Eaves, Massachusetts.   The story was a sweet contemporary romance story that featured Sofia Mercer and Burke Wolf who had been childhood friends. I found the story will start with Sofia being at her Aunt Luz's funeral that will take you to the end giving the reader quite a interesting story where there will be a lots of  'secrets of the past, feelings, fears  along  with some self discovery, redemption, forgiveness and love' that will come out.

We find that Eaves wasn't a new place for Sofia for she had grew up there with her parents, Aunt Luz and her friend Burke. However, Sofia a been a sickly child that dealt with heart problems and suddenly she [at 17] and her father had moved leaving Eaves far behind [due to be run out of town].   Now, [at 31] she had lived in NY with her best friend Josie and it was after funeral  Sofia learns that she was her Aunt's beneficiary getting [her Aunt's 'erotic novelty boutique'  & her dog named Tish]and left with a decision to make in what to do .... live in NY or Eaves, Cape Cod?  As the story continues Sofia has come into contact with her old friend Burke but were they still friends after what had happened in the end when she had left Eaves?  This interesting and compelling story really keeps on moving and we learn a lots of what all had happened previously in this emotional story where truly Sofia and Burke had gone through quite a lot in their life as children there in Eaves.  Be ready for a little bit of from laughter and happiness, fighting and even some 'crazy hot sex' that will be all in this captivating read.

This author really knows how to keep the readers attention turning the pages as we will see how
love was so hard for these two people. Feeling the love that Burke had for Sofia was off the chart. Seeing how much he went through ....all of the pain...well I will stop here so I won't spoil it for you. It was indeed a good read of how we see the characters,,,Sofia, Burke along with [Caro, Joss, Bautista] to name a few secondary characters were able to come together and help each other when it was needed, being well portrayed and even believable giving the readers one heck of a good read. Will these two get a new start in life  and love as their second chance comes together with all of its twist and turns after their past?

 You definitely have to pick up this heart warming novel... 'Meant To Be Mine' to see if these two Sofia and Burke will get their HEA?   Would I recommend?

I will be definitely looking forward to reading

 the second book!

This ARC was given by the publisher and NetGallery in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.

The Things We Wish Were True B: Marybeth Mayhew Whalen

Book Description....

"In an idyllic small-town neighborhood, a near tragedy triggers a series of dark revelations.
From the outside, Sycamore Glen, North Carolina, might look like the perfect all-American neighborhood. But behind the white picket fences lies a web of secrets that reach from house to house.
Up and down the streets, neighbors quietly bear the weight of their own pasts—until an accident at the community pool upsets the delicate equilibrium. And when tragic circumstances compel a woman to return to Sycamore Glen after years of self-imposed banishment, the tangle of the neighbors’ intertwined lives begins to unravel.
During the course of a sweltering summer, long-buried secrets are revealed, and the neighbors learn that it’s impossible to really know those closest to us. But is it impossible to love and forgive them?"

Title:  The Things We Wish Were True
Author:  Marybeth Mayhew Whalen
Publisher:  Lake Union Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"The Things We Wish Were True" by Marybeth Mayhew Whalen

My Thoughts....

The small town of  Sycamore Glen, North Carolina was interesting in how this author gives the readers a alternated told stories  that were narrated by a group of characters [with each one with a story of their own to tell] that told a little bit of it all as the reader reads from chapter to chapter and even being told from multiple viewpoints. Was this like  a little bit of  'where everyone knows everyone's business?'

 What was most interesting was as the reader read through  the chapters there would be many 'small town twisted secrets and even some lies' that would seemed to be hidden.   Did it seemed like everyone had some kind of secret? Will these long buried secrets come out?  What about the saying 'The truth will set you free.' The main meeting place during this summer in Sycamore and where one would find the locals  daily at the pool that was being greatly used.  What will happen after there is a tragedy almost occurs?  How will this affect this small community? To find out the answers to many questions the reader will have to pick up this read to see how this author will bring it all out to the reader.   Be ready for a read with a good plot even though somewhat predictable with lots of drama, little mystery and even with a few flawed characters.   Some of the most memorable characters were Cailey, Zell and Lance. Jency, Bryte and Everett with each being well developed, portrayed and even believable.  One of my favorite parts of of the read was when  the 'Miracle tree' and the reason it was given.

I liked how this author brought out the story and by the  end of this read it showed some positive changes, with joys along with 'redemption,'   Also, I liked some of the book club discussions questions at the back of the novel.


This was a Kindle First Pick read for August, 2016.

Dare To Seduce By: Carly Phillips

Book Description....

"Lucy Dare & Max Savage
NY Dare cousins … the hotter Dare books!

Max Savage has had a thing for Lucy Dare for as long as he can remember but he values his long standing friendship with her brothers too much to cross the line. When Lucy shows up at an engagement party on the arms of another man, Max doesn’t like the changes he sees in her.
It’s now or never. Max can think of one way to convince Lucy she’s with the wrong guy. He’ll dare to seduce her …"

Title:  Dare To Seduce

Author:  Carly Phillips

Publisher:  C.P. Publishers

Series:  NY Dares Book 3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Dare to Seduce" by Carly Phillips

My Thoughts...

I enjoyed this Book 3 of NY Dares...'Dare To Seduce' that featured Lucy Dare and Max Savage's story.  After Max was given the OK from Lucy's brothers[Gabe & Decklan], he didn't lose any time at going after what he had always wanted which was Lucy.  We find from the reads that Max had always had feeling for Lucy but will she feel the same for him? With Lucky having some issues with the 'fear of losing people' and Max having had 'abandonment issues' will these two ever have their HEA?   Indeed this novel was another one of this authors delightful, sexy, steamy hot romantic read.
 Even though this novel is a standalone read 'Dare to Seduce' I would suggest the readers read the first and second books ...'Dare to Surrender' and 'Dare to Submit' to get the whole amazing story about this 'Dare Family.'


 

Dare to Submit By: Carly Phillips

Book Description...

"Decklan Dare knows about the unexpected loss of loved ones and for this reason, he values control in all areas of his life. Amanda Collins enjoys the freedom she finds in casual encounters without the emotional connection a relationship brings. They meet and their physical attraction is mutual but both experience feelings that could run deeper – if they drop their guard and let each other in. Decklan is first to trust, but when he discovers the secret Amanda’s been hiding, will he forgive? Or will he rebuild every wall before she has a chance to explain?"

Title:  Dare To Submit
Author:  Carly Phillips
Publisher:  C.P. Publishing
Series:  NY Dares Book 2
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Dare To Submit" by Carly Phillips

My Thoughts....

Wow what a read of this sexy alpha cop [Decklan]  and curvy and beautiful [Amanda]!  With them meeting at the BDSM club you can only imagine what will happen for these two people. Would you believe they were there at this club because they didn't want any relationships other than to get their needs fulfilled.  However, what will happen when these two spend a night together?  Well, I don't want to spoil it other than say you will have to pick up this novel to see what all comes after this one niter.   How will a secret that comes out affect this relationship?  Yes, this is a BDSM read so be prepared for that in the read.  I loved how this read tied in Decklan's  other family members and friend from book 1.  If you love a hot contemporary romantic read you have come to the right place for "Dare to Submit" featuring Decklan and Amanda will give it all to you.

The Captive Heart By: Michelle Griep

Book Description....

"Proper English governess Eleanor Morgan flees to the colonies to escape the wrath of a an angry duke. When the Charles Town family she’s to work for never arrives to collect her from the dock, she is forced to settle for the only reputable choice remaining to her—marriage to a man she’s never met. Trapper and tracker Samuel Heath is a hardened survivor used to getting his own way by brain or by brawn, and he’s determined to find a mother for his young daughter. But finding a wife proves to be impossible. No upstanding woman wants to marry a murderer."

Title:  The Captive Heart
Author:  Michelle Griep
Publisher:  Barbour Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"The Captive Heart" by Michelle Griep

My Thoughts.....

What a interesting and captivating frontier read with its setting in 1770's  South Carolina colonies before the Revolutionary War where the settlers had to 'honor the crown or be punished.'  This author really knows how to keep the readers attention with there being so much going on  in this well written story from the very first chapter to the end presenting never a dull moment.  The reader can see that there was a lots of research done in this read as we learn a lots about the 'Cherokee culture.'  Be ready for a little bit of it all from 'much sorrow, redemption to love.'  This heroine Eleanor really had to learn to adapt to it all...even from having a 'marriage of convenience' after she had to flee from England. Truly what she had to go through was simply horrible and to now have to marry someone she knew nothing about due to survival.  Now, the hero Samuel was a 'backwoodsman, a trapper, half Native American' and I found it so interesting how this author brings this all out to the heroine who had no idea who he was other than being told that he was a murderer.  Now, what was up with all of that?  I won't give it away other than to say you will have to pick up the good read and see how well this author will present it all to the reader.  It is one amazing plot that I did enjoy reading.  If I had any thing I didn't care for was that the heroine at times got on  my last nerve because she didn't care to take instruction especially from her husband which did make life somewhat hard at the time.  I found the characters were well developed, well portrayed and believable giving the reader a good story with heartache, emotions, even some romantic tension and less not  leave out all the danger that seemed to be all around every corner.  I did also enjoy how this author presented the christian aspect that was presented with the many prayers that went up by the heroine and hero. After all the misunderstands that will do on will these two finally get their HEA?  Well, you will have to pick up this read to see.

So, if you are looking for a good historical fiction read with lots of adventure then I would definitely recommend "The Captive Heart' to you as a good read.


I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Bad Dog By: Obren Bokich

Book Description...

"When serial womanizer Jack Banks hits on the wrong beauty, a Spanish witch who’s been turning thoughtless men into dogs since one broke her teenage heart over three hundred years ago, he wakes up as a Labrador retriever. As if that and navigating a far from stray dog-friendly city weren’t frustrating enough, he falls in love for the first time with Karen, the young woman with an outsized heart for animals who adopts him. She clearly loves him too, as a dog. But even if he can break the spell, will she love him as a man?"

Title:  Bad Dog
Author:  Obren Bokich
Publisher:  West Hills Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating;  Four
Review:

"Bad Dog" by Obren Bokich

My Thoughts....

Now this was quite some fantasy read.  I would imagine  this one mounts right up there with some men who have cheated and have been thought of as mire dogs in one way or another. However,  this 'Spanish witch' takes it to another level. Now, why was that?  It looks like  Jack and his friend Charlie have been 'womanizing' so much that someone was definitely fed up and what better way than to put a stop to it by turning them into ..well this is where I don't want to give too much away other than to say you must pick this one up for yourself because it had me smiling all the way through the read.  I will say that this author really has a amagination in how the story was put together to give the reader quite one interesting read.  In the end will Jack finally have a better view of how he wants his life after be meets the woman who had adopted him before he turned back to a ? Will they be able to get together for a HFN ending?

Thank you for the early read of  'Bad Dog' for my honest opinion.  

Unexpected Eden By: Rhenna Morgan

Book Description...

"Paradise, love, power…and a prophecy with a price.

Most people believe Eden no longer exists. Lexi Merrill’s about to learn they’re wrong. A hard-working bartender with a self-sufficient backbone and a wary nature, she knows pickup lines like a second language. So, when Eryx Shantos barges into her world with too-smooth words and a body to back it up, she locks up her libido and vows to keep her distance.

Eryx has other ideas. As king of the Myren race, Eryx is duty-bound to enforce the laws preventing exposure of their existence to humans. Yet The Fates have led him through his dreams to Lexi, a temptation he doesn’t want to resist. The question--is she Myren, or human, which makes her forbidden fruit?

When Eryx’s nemesis tags Lexi as his next target, Eryx insists on taking her home where he can keep her safe. Lexi had no idea “home” would mean the one-and-only land of creation…or that she’d trigger a prophecy that could doom her newfound race."

Title:  Unexpected Eden

Author:  Rhenna Morgan

Publisher:  Lyrical Press Inc.

Series:  Eden # 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Unexpected Eden" by Rhenna Morgan

My Thoughts....

What a excellent read for any urban fantasy/paranormal lover where the plot of this series will keep you turning the pages to the end.  To live in Eden and to be a Malran or Fireann...wow what a fun read with such magical elements of this world that this author gives the reader.  Be ready to read about a 'sexy hero [Eryx]with a strong heroine' [Alexis]with a big heart in this neat fantasy world where you will get a fast paced read with lots of action.

Has Eryx find his soulmate?

“Ten years he’d searched, dreamed and waited. And here he was, his soul perched on the edge of an emotional cliff.”

I found the secondary characters [Galena, Ramsay & Ludan] to name a few are all interesting intriguing people that will  definitely have you wanting to know more about their special abilities[and you will from the other three Eden series].

What about that mating ceremony?   Well, this is the time I say you must pick this read up and see for yourself how well this author presents all to her readers.  So, if you are into the dramatic supernatural magical world that take on quite a steamy ride that is unique and mystical, twist and turns with  'a prophecy and scheming villain' then this read is for you. This was definitely a excellent beginning to this 'Eden' sequel.  I loved the ending where the author gives the reader a glossary from Asshur to Zurun that were used in the novel.

I received this read from NOR in exchange for an honest review.

Glass Houses By: Brian W. Smith

Book Description...

"Tammy Hill is physically abused by her husband, Chris. She manages to escape Chris' wrath and hides out at a neighbors house. While in hiding, Tammy contacts her three older brothers and ask them to come and rescue her. The brothers quickly run to her rescue, but in doing so, they overlook their own flaws: one of the brothers physically abuses his own wife; a second other brother is a deadbeat dad who is supposed to see his kids the day they leave to get Tammy; and the last brother is a minister - the ultimate conflict of interest. The three men are forced to face their own demons and eventually learn that people who live in "glass houses" have no right to throw stones."

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

"Glass Houses" by Brian W. Smith

My Thoughts...

This was definitely not a read where you would want to put it down until the very end.   This author has given the reader something to ponder on long after the read.  I loved that title: "Glass Houses" because it can relate so well to what could happen in our daily twisted life when it involves family. Now, when this family is brought into this situation as in this story, things did go from bad to worse especially when all the facts are not shared and especially when people will not take and follow directions.  I had wished there had been a epilogue because I had a few questions that were not answered but  I guess we the reader can come to there own conclusion to what else happened in this story. The characters...from [Tammy, Chris, Cameron, Vince, Dianne,VJ, Malcolm, Amber, Monica to Goldie] to name a few I will say were off the chart well developed, portrayed and believable giving the reader a well written script.

Now That It's You Tawna Fenske

Book Description...

"Talented chef Meg Delaney hasn’t spoken to her cheating ex-fiancé, Matt Midland, for two years. Ditching him at the altar after blurting out “I can’t” instead of “I do” would sour any relationship. But now, just as Meg is finally ready to bury the hatchet, she learns closure is permanently off the menu. And the kicker? Matt’s brother, Kyle, is back in her life, stirring up feelings that are equal parts guilt and lust.
Meg was the best thing that never happened to Kyle. He couldn’t make a move on his brother’s girlfriend—even if Matt didn’t value her nearly enough. The situation is even more complicated now that Meg’s bestselling aphrodisiac cookbook has spawned a legal battle with the Midlands. Maybe he should stay away. But love, like family, plays by its own rules. And the one woman he shouldn’t want might be the only one who’s perfect for him."

Title:  Now That It's You
Author:  Tawna Fenske
Publisher:  Montlake Romance
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"Now That It's You" by Tawna Fenske

My Thoughts...

For some  parts of the story I sort of liked the novel but still I will say there was  many things about the read that I didn't really care for.  OK, I could understand the emotions and all the grief from the read but what the brother Kyle had done because of his love for his brothers fiance was not a good thing for me to even try to understand and for Meg  to be able to forgive him in a heartbeat? This definitely left me saying how could she especially after it all comes out!  Wow!

I guess the whole idea of Meg falling for her ex fiance's brother[Kyle] had me shaking my head and saying NO way even though he had died!  Another part of the read that had me on pins and needles was Kyle's mother.  I definitely didn't like her at all!  I still couldn't figure out Meg's reasoning about that hold situation about paying for the $10,000 for taking photos for her cook book...why she even felt she had to pay it especially after it was proved that he [Matt] did say he would do it for sexual favors!  Now, that was some story!  Anyway, by the time I got to the epilogue of this novel I was really feeling I was in left field thinking there were too many questions that weren't answered for me and that ending...definitely a bit rushed!  This was a  Wow moment for me!  However, after I set back and thought a little about this novel I realized the author did a decent job with giving the readers a story but maybe it was just me:  I just didn't care for the hero or heroine so my rating came to  a 3.5 which ending up being around  a four rate.  So, all I am left saying is that this novel was about: 'death, grief and infidelity' and there is more but ....this is where I say you will have to pick this one up to see for yourself what you think of this novel 'Now That It's You.'

I received the novel from NetGallery in return for my honest opinion.

June By: Miranda Beverly-Whittemore

Book Description...

"From the New York Times bestselling author of Bittersweet comes a novel of suspense and passion about a terrible mistake made sixty years ago that threatens to change a modern family forever. 

Twenty-five-year-old Cassie Danvers is holed up in her family’s crumbling mansion in rural St. Jude, Ohio, mourning the loss of the woman who raised her—her grandmother, June. But a knock on the door forces her out of isolation. Cassie has been named the sole heir to legendary matinee idol Jack Montgomery's vast fortune. How did Jack Montgomery know her name? Could he have crossed paths with her grandmother all those years ago? What other shocking secrets could June’s once-stately mansion hold?

Soon Jack’s famous daughters come knocking, determined to wrestle Cassie away from the inheritance they feel is their due. Together, they all come to discover the true reasons for June’s silence about that long-ago summer, when Hollywood came to town, and June and Jack’s lives were forever altered by murder, blackmail, and betrayal.

As this page-turner shifts deftly between the past and present, Cassie and her guests will be forced to reexamine their legacies, their definition of family, and what it truly means to love someone, steadfastly, across the ages."

Title:  June:  A Novel

Author:  Miranda Beverly-Whittemore

Publisher:  Crown

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  4.5

Review:

"June" by Miranda Beverly-Whittemore

My Thoughts.....

A read that will go back and forth  from 2015 where  we get Cassie's story and back to 1955 to June's story where the storyline centers around Cassie Danvers inherited her grandmothers old mansion that was call 'Two Oaks' [covering two time periods] in St Jude, Ohio.  I found this author's writing style was beautiful in how she  delivers to the reader the details about this house [[definitely the picture taking].  But after all is said and done this house is falling down with overdue bills and it all looked quite a downward spiral for Cassie until she answers her door and finds Nick on her doorstep telling her that someone had left her '37 million dollars, some property and an island [from the fortune of Jack Morgan, a very wealthy and famous Hollywood actor].   Now, what was all of this about?  Why did they want her to take a DNA test to prove she was related? And a question that came to me was why didn't Cassie want to take this test?  Wouldn't that have solved some of the problems presented regarding this situation?  Now, what happens when the DNA test come in?  Wow!  This story will get quite interesting  in what Cassie says she will and will not do.  What all will happen when Tate, Nick and Hank along with Jack Morgan's famous daughters have come to Two Oaks to live with her for a period of time?  The story gets even more interesting as the story switches from Cassie to what had happen with her grandmother June. The big question is what is the big secret about her grandmother's past?  I found the two time periods will keep you guessing to what all is going on all the way to the very end of this story.  This is truly one read that you will not get it until the end and I liked the way this author presented it to the readers.   The characters [Cassie, Tate, Elda, Nick, Hank, June, Jack Lindie & Apatha] were mostly likable however I  did find a few others I did not care for.  But for the most part most the characters were well portrayed and even believable giving the reader a story where many things happened with the  'many revelations, blackmail, mystery, personal sacrifice, secrets, Hollywood glamour, family drama, to murder' where the list will go on  and on giving a reader one heck of a intriguing and  captivating dual timeline story. By the time I got to the end of the novel  I felt that the read did lack something... even though Cassie may have lived up to its promises...I was left thinking  there had been too many secrets even though they were revealed in the end but did I miss something?   So, this is where I would definitely recommend you pick up this novel and see for yourself if you will get all of the expectations you thought were needed at the end.  

I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.

Body Shot [Prologue] By: Kelly Jamieson

Body Description....

"The bestselling author of the Heller Brothers series stirs up a tempting cocktail of fun and seduction as a sexy SEAL-turned-bartender treats a buttoned-up scientist to a wild weekend . . . and a change of heart.

Former Navy SEAL Beck Whitcomb left a world of privilege to prove he could make his own way. Money, mansions, expensive cars—none of it could heal the loss of his older brother, or buy his parents’ love. Now, after using his trust fund to open the Conquistadors tequila bar with his brothers-in-arms, Beck has it all: good friends, fine liquor, and hot hookups. When it comes to women, commitment’s not his thing—until he gets a taste of the pretty professor who walks into his bar . . . and winds up in his bed.

Hayden Miles knows all too well that emotional decisions can lead to heartbreak, and nothing screams “bad decision” like a playboy bartender with inked biceps and a wicked smile. Still, their chemistry is off-the-charts explosive—and Hayden knows her chemistry. For once, this good girl longs to let loose. But is she willing to risk the pain to quench her thirst? With the promise of more on the table, Hayden’s eager to believe . . . before she misses her shot."

Title:  Body Shot [Prologue]

Author:  Kelly Jamieson

Publisher:  Loveswept

Series:  Lost Shot #1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Body Shot" by Kelly Jamieson

My Thoughts.....

I just read the prologue of 'Body Shot' but what I read I would say this read is a good steamy romantic read that will keep your full attention to the end.  Indeed it does seem like Beck and Hayden are made for each other. in a very different way.  Will they find their HEA?   Well, I guess I will have to pick up the rest of this well written story to find out what will happen with Beck being so adventurous and Hayden being cautious how will all of this work out?

I received a  prologue copy via Insta-Freebie for an honest review.

Fell In Love With A Bad Guy 2 By: Ms. T. Nicole

Book Description.....

"After taking a bullet for Eric and leaving the streets to become a better husband, Con is stuck with the harsh reality that Porsha is now dead. He has no interest in getting in the streets to find answers. He prolonged saying goodbye for as long as he could until depression set in and changed the Conway’s family dynamics forever.

Ariel finds it hard living in Chicago after giving birth to twins. She doesn’t feel like she made the right decision when she fell in love with her bad guy. Trying to find a balance between being a mom and a live-in girlfriend while planning a wedding, the street life is taking a toll on her as she’s finding it hard to juggle her kids with an absent father. Will their love keep them together or will the streets pull them apart?

After saving Ariel and earning the respect of her family, Eric is now having to prove himself to a family that doesn't have an issue with putting him in the dirt. He goes to great lengths to hide a secret from Ariel, while trying to prove to the Conway men that he can still reign terror on the streets of Chicago to bring the person responsible for Porsha’s death to justice. After realizing the culprit behind the murder, Eric has no choice but to do what he feel is right in order to keep himself alive.

New people are introduced from the past. Friendships and bonds that can never be broken are put through the ultimate test. Let’s find out if falling in love with a bad guy is really worth it or just a waste of time."

Title:  Fell In Love With A Bad Guy 2

Author:  Ms. T Nicole

Publisher:  Treasured Publication

Series:  Book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Den

Rating: 5

Review:

"Fell In Love With A Bad Guy 2" by Ms. T Nicole

My Thoughts....

Wow what a good read. The author really puts it out there for her readers that will definitely capture your attention because once you start reading you will find it very hard to put down until the very end. All of the characters [Ariel, Eric, Giselle, Con, Pharaoh, Lex, Treasure] and a few others were off the chart well defined, portrayed and believable giving the reader a good series read. I love how the story had a little mystery and surprise to who had done what to Porsha. Will Eric and Ariel finally get their HEA? Well you will just have to pick up the good read to see how well this author brings out this story to her readers. I would suggest the reader read book 1 so you will understand what went on earlier in this well written urban fiction story. Be ready for a little bit of it all...from deceit, murder with a great deal of sadness with a lot of twist and turns. This was a good conclusion to Book 1. 

Loyal By: Yasmin Shiraz

Book Description....



"at the bottom of my front door, lay my brother, Khalil, crumpled like a sack of dirty clothes.  Blood had soaked thought everything he was wearing and he lay there on the ground.  Moaning.

Title:  Loyal:  The Prequel To Retaliation
Author:  Yasmin Shiraz
Publisher: Y. S.
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Loyal" by Yasmin Shiraz

My Thoughts....

I found this novel such a good read with all that had gone on in this family...a single mom trying to be their for her daughter Tashera and son Khalil.  However, it seems like the son had problems being caught up with the wrong people [gangs] who thought that they would be their for him. Khalil thought he knew what loyalty was but did he really know what that word meant?  After asking his sister Tashera to look up the word loyal...I loved the way she brings it all out so well in her answer to her brother in a letter...

"this experience, this is what I've learned from you about being loyal:

Being loyal makes you choose between friends and family.
Being loyal takes away your happiness and replaces it with anger.
Being loyal puts your life at risk. (Loyalty dropped you off at the doorstep bleeding),
Being loyal means deserting your friends if the police come around.
Being loyal means dumping your boyfriend when he gets locked up.
Being loyal reminds me of a movie..."Every man for himself."
     Everyone scattered and didn't look out for or try to help the other
     person in their crew.  Isn't that what happened to you?"

 Will Khalil really get  and receive this message?

This was a well written read that had me shaking my head through most of the read.  Wow, this author really puts a message out there for all who will receive it!  Very well done by this author and yes I would definitely recommend this one to all as a good read.

The Daughter of Union County By: Francine Thomas Howard

Book Description....

"Fourteen years after the end of slavery, Lord Henry Hardin and his wife, Lady Bertha, enjoy an entitled life in Union County, Arkansas. Until he faces a devastating reality: Bertha is unable to bear children. If Henry doesn’t produce an heir, the American branch of his family name will die out. So Henry, desperate to preserve his aristocratic family lineage, does the unthinkable.

When Salome, a former slave and Henry’s mistress, gives birth to a white-skinned, blue-eyed daughter, Henry orders a reluctant Lady Bertha to claim the child as their own…allowing young Margaret to pass into the white world of privilege.

As Margaret grows older, unaware of her true parentage, devastating circumstances threaten to shroud her in pain and shame…but then, ultimately, in revelation. Despite rumors about Margaret’s true identity, Salome is determined to transform her daughter’s bitter past into her secure future while Henry goes to extraordinary lengths to protect his legacy. Spanning decades and generations, marked by tragedy and redemption, this unforgettable saga illuminates a family’s fight for their name, for survival, and for true freedom."

Title:  The Daughter of Union County

Author:  Francine Thomas Howard

Publisher:  Lake Union Publishing

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Four

Review:

"The Daughter of Union County" by Francine Thomas Howard

My Thoughts.....

I will start out saying this was definitely one of those novels that you will  either like or dislike.  Well, I am a little in between because the author does bring out a lot of what was going on during that time of slavery. This was a read of much greed, strange family that dealt with slavery, domestic abuse, fear, racism and what I found most interesting sometimes even love?  I still can't quite understand why I chose to read this novel other than the description of the read got my attention.  To say I liked this read, well I can't say that to be completely honest, however I did feel that this author gave it her all with her writing and to give the reader a HEA ending was somewhat indeed interesting to me.  I will say I am not interest in slavery but I just wanted to see how this author would lay it all out for the reader.  To say this was a enjoyable read where I couldn't put down would not be true for me.  However, being a book reviewer I always finish any book I pickup  to read.  This was definitely a very sad look at what has gone on in 'our world.'  I am glad this is a fiction read and not a true story.  My rating will be a 3.5 which equals out to a four because I did think this author did give the reader one very unforgettable read  about the 'reconstruction era of slavery and indentured servitude' that you will either choose to like or dislike.   It will be up to you the reader to decide for yourself.


I received the novel from NetGallery in return for my honest opinion.

Breaking and Holding By Judy Fogarty

Book Description...

"For Patricia Curren, the summer of 1978 begins with a devastating discovery: an unfamiliar black pearl button in the bed she shares with her controlling husband, Jack. Seeking the courage to end her desolate marriage, Patricia spends a quiet summer alone on beautiful Kiawah Island. But when she meets Terry Sloan, a collegiate tennis player trying to go pro, their physical attraction sparks a slow burn toward obsession.

Once Patricia and Terry share closely guarded secrets from their pasts, they want more than a summer together. But their love soon fractures, as a potential sponsor takes an unusually keen interest in Terry—both on court and off. And when single, career-driven Lynn Hewitt arrives, other secrets must surface, including the one Patricia has kept from Terry all summer.

An intimate portrait of the folly of the human heart, Breaking and Holding explores buried truths that are startlingly unveiled. What’s left in their wake has the power not only to shatter lives…but to redeem them."

Title: Breaking and Holding
Author: Judy Fogarty
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"Breaking and Holding" by Judy Fogarty

"My Thoughts...

What a emotional read that was full of a little bit of it all from 'heartbreak, abuse, dysfunctional marriage, pain, anguish, suffering, alcoholism, friendship, betrayal, secrets, love and even some laughter in this page turner. These characters from Patricia, Jack, Lynn, Terry to many more were for the most part well developed, however their were a few that were complexed. But from the read the readers gets a well portrayed interesting read during the summer of 1978 on Kiawah Island, SC. I enjoyed the plot along with the many twist and turns that this author gives us especially the tennis history fashion and even the popular music of that time. Would I recommend? YES!

I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.          

Saving Sarah By: Nicola Marsh

Book Description....

"When Sara Hardy inherits a cottage in the small town of Redemption, Connecticut, it is just the break she needs to draw a line under her past—to begin again, on her own.

Sara never thought she’d be starting over. She was married, successful, and the mother of a beautiful girl. But the life she thought was on the right path has taken a series of wrong turns…

Meanwhile Jake Mathieson has a lot on his plate. Still reeling from a tragedy for which he feels responsible, he finds himself unexpectedly caring for his six-year-old nephew. In desperation, he comes to Redemption to enlist the help of his Aunt Cilla, a widow with demons of her own.

Jake is intrigued by Cilla’s cautious new neighbor. Like him, Sara is desperate to put the past behind her but not quite sure how to begin. Can Redemption offer either of them a second chance to find hope and happiness—perhaps even to take a risk on new love?"

Title:  Saving Sarah

Author:  Nicola Marsh

Publisher:  Lake Union Publishing

Series: Redemption Series Book 1
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:


"Saving Sarah" by Nicola Marsh

My Thoughts....

What I wonderful read! This emotional story will definitely pull at your heart. The characters from Sara, Jake, Aunt Cilla, Olly and Rose who will tough your heart and where they all will have to overcome something in their life and given a new chance at happiness.  I found this read a beautiful story of 'healing, facing death and moving toward a new beginning.'  I enjoyed this 'powerful read' being told from three different points of views that gives us two romance stories, interesting well written story with a surprising ending.  Would I recommend?  YES!

I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Retaliation By: Yasmin Shiraz

Book Description....

"Violence runs rampant on the streets of Washington, DC, and on one seemingly quiet day, the Odom family finds its world destroyed when seventeen-year-old Tashera is brutally attacked by a group of high school girls.
Retaliation exposes the corrupting existence of violence in our communities and the retaliatory measures families go through to protect themselves and their children."

Title:  Retaliation

Author:  Yasmin Shiraz

Publisher:  Rolling Hills Press at Smashwords

Series:  Retaliation # 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Retaliation" by Yasmin Shiraz

My Thoughts....

Wow, this was some story where 'Retaliation' is front and center in this urban YA read.  Will the Odom family ever be the same after Tashera was 'brutally attacked by a group of HS girls.'  It seems like their had already been problems in this family from her brother Kahlil who had been 'paralyzed
due to running with gangs.'  What will happen when Tashera's mom and brother tries to take care of the situation that had happened?  My, my how this dramatic story will take many turns through retaliation.

There will be so many twist and turns that one will find it hard to put down definitely keeping your attention all the way to the end of the story.  I found this wasn't a happy story ... quite a sad one but in the end will Tashera find any happiness through all of this?  Well, you will have to pick up this novel and see for yourself how well this storyline is brought out to the readers.

I liked how Tashera reach out to Yasmin [the author of this novel] who had spoke at one time at her school.  It was indeed wonderful to see how that Tashera wanted out of her present situation and had someone to tell her trouble to that truly understood what she was going through.

"Retaliation" really brings out what can happen from one  'single act of violence' that did affect so many individuals in this community.  Would I recommend?  YES!

Thank you to the author for the gift of the read for my honest opinion of the read.

Taken By: Erica Conroy

Book Description...

"Respect the enemy, fear his daughter.

Peace negotiations are easy right? Not when you’re learning a language composed of hisses, growls and other guttural sounds. And that’s not even the tough part for recently divorced diplomat Viktor Jacobs. No, that would be matching wits with the fiercely intelligent daughter of the opposing side. Between dodging her claws, avoiding a myriad of cultural taboos, and not accidentally getting married or killed, he has to somehow make the Lyrissians see that joining the Alliance of Worlds is the best choice for all of their futures.



EXCERPT


Viktor's door chimed and he scowled. He exited the bathroom, glanced at the clock on the wall and stubbed his toe on the sofa as he made his way to the door. It opened to reveal not his friend Roger, the ship's commanding officer whom he was expecting, but S'rea.



"What is that on your face?" she immediately asked.



"Haffin hehl," Viktor tried to reply around the toothbrush still in his mouth. He removed the toothbrush while his other hand checked his towel was still firmly wrapped around his waist. "Shaving gel," he said again. He noticed her silent guard loitering in the corridor.



"You have no ridges," S'rea said and reached out her hand. Her touch along his shoulder was feather light and he had to fight off the urge to shiver.



"Sorry to disappoint," he said and stepped away from her. "What do you want, S'rea?"



"I want many things, U-man, but none of them are why I am here," she said.



Viktor raised an eyebrow at her cryptic answer. "Sounds like something a man should hear with pants on. Take a seat. I'll be back in a second. Tell your 'babysitter' to come on in."

Title:  Taken

Author:  Erica Conroy

Publisher:  E.C.

Series:  Callisto #1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Taken" by Erica Conroy

My Thoughts....

"Taken" was a good romantic science fiction read where the 'alien's will keep you turning the pages to see what will be going to happen next.  If you are looking for a read with a  'real tough female lead, humorous parts in the read that will have you laughing out loud, different cultural species, diplomatic banter wrangling, suspense and let's not leave out the  love between a alien and human.'  Take all of this in and you get a real adventurous sci-fi romantic read with many twist and turns.  I found the characters [Viktor, S'rea, Tarn, Karo, Roger] to name a few for the most part were well developed, portrayed and even somewhat believable being very strong and opinionated which gives the reader a good well written read.  Would I recommend this novel?  YES especially if you are into romantic sci-fi reads.

Oh, by the way, I enjoyed the ending "Viktor's Interview" with the reporter!

I received a copy via Insta-Freebie for an honest review.

Hungry Moon: Quicksilver By: Claudy Conn

Book Description...

"Ravena MacAllister doesn’t want to admit what she is. She wants to continue pretending she’s just human … only human, like her mother, like her friends.

But she isn’t human.

Heartbreak and betrayal send her off rushing to Scotland, to a familiar haven where she has spent so many summers with her father, but she soon discovers that everything has changed.

From the moment she meets Quinn MacValdane, shock waves travel through him to her and back again, wrapping them in a tide of passion she had never dreamt possible. But if they are to have a future together, she must confront who and what she is, for she will need to call on the powers within her as she becomes embroiled in an adventure that will alter her life forever.

The time for pretending is over."

Title:  Hungry Moon:  Quicksilver

Author:  Claudy Conn

Publisher:  C.C.

Series:  Hungry Moon #1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Hungry Moon:  Quicksilver" by Claudy Conn

My Thoughts...

What a beautiful magical world that this author gives us with some amazing characters [Ravina, Quinn, Arthur] that will keep you attention to the end. The two main characters will take you on one wild ride where there will be 'lots of action along with passion and romance. Be ready for a ride with 'werewolves, fae, druids, demons, prophecies, wizards,dark magic,  shape-shifters and lykens.'  I loved the HEA ending as the reader will see there will be other series.  So, if you re into a paranormal reads with lots of action with lots of twist and turns you have come to the right place for a good read
that I would recommend to you.

I received a copy via Insta-Freebie for an honest review.

Secret Places Revealed By: Author Paulette Harper

Book Description....

"Secret Places Revealed, An Inspirational Fiction Romance Novel

Single and content, Real Estate Developer, Aaron Blackman is determined not to be in another relationship. His ex Macy, gave him enough drama to last a life time. The only thing that has his attention right now, is his growing business, that’s until Simone Herron comes along. Fighting to keep his promise to himself, he soon learns that when it comes to love some rules are meant to be broken.

After losing her fiancé to an untimely death, Simone Herron is relocating and trying to put the past behind her. A new chapter in her life is what she is hoping for but what happens when her past and her present collide? Will she let the walls she has built come down?

Simone must learn that in order to love again, she must conquer her past fears and allow God to put all the broken pieces together."

Title:  Secret Places Revealed

Author:  Paulette Harper

Publisher:  Thy Word Publishing

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Secret Places Revealed"  by Paulette Harper

My Thoughts....

What a beautifully written Christian romance fiction story of how when you let go of your secrets God will come in and makes it all good.  This was what had happened for Aaron Blackman and Simone Herron.   I enjoy how this author was able to bring out this story so well for the readers to understand that many times in our life we have to profess just what the problem is.  The characters were off the chart well developed, portrayed and this was such a believable story.  As it was for Aaron as he was able to speak with his pastor [I loved the scriptures presented in the read] and for Simone who had fear issues that we find her best friend Kendra tried to give her some good advice on what she needed to do. Would she  listen to her friend about the fears that was going on in her life?  In the end will these two be able to listen to each other and except forgiveness so they may have a HEA?  Well, this is where I say you will have to pick up this wonderful well written novel to see how this author brings it all out to the readers to see how 'God puts all the broken pieces together.'  Would I recommend?  YES!

Bidding On The Billionaire [Prologue] By: Christina Tetreault

Book Description....

"Rather than disappoint his beloved aunt, billionaire Derek Sherbrooke has reluctantly agreed to participate in her foundation’s fundraiser: a bachelor auction. Concerned who the lucky winner will be, he devises a plan and enlists the aid of his longtime friend Brooklyn Novak. All she has to do is make sure no one outbids her. It was a simple plan... until they kissed.

Successful attorney Brooklyn Novak met Derek in college, and has loved him ever since—despite her father’s disapproval. Rather than risk their close friendship, she’s constantly kept her true feelings buried. When Derek asks for her help, she knows it’s a disaster waiting to happen, but can’t say no. But what was supposed to be a simple charade quickly puts her on an emotional roller coaster ride to a place she never wanted to go.

Can these longtime friends find their happily ever after together?"

Title:  Bidding On The Billionaire [Prologue]

Author:  Christina Tetreault

Publisher:  C.T.
Series:  The Sherbrookes of Newport Book 8
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"Bidding On The Billionaire"[Prologue] by Christina Tetreault

My Thoughts....

This sounds like a good read as this part I read was just the prologue of 'Bidding On The Billionaire.'
There seems to be a bachelor auction that Derek didn't want to go to, however, after a visit from his aunt Marilyn will she decide to attend this function?  The story seems to be full of family characters so I would say this would be one to read to see how this billionaire makes out.  Would I be interested in reading the rest of this story?  YES.

I received a copy via Insta-Freebie for an honest review.

The Crepes of Wrath By: Sarah Fox

Book Description....

"In the debut of a delightful cozy mystery series, Sarah Fox introduces a charming new heroine who finds herself in a sticky situation: stacking pancakes, pouring coffee, and investigating murder.

When Marley McKinney’s aging cousin, Jimmy, is hospitalized with pneumonia, she agrees to help run his pancake house while he recovers. With its rustic interior and syrupy scent, the Flip Side Pancake House is just as she pictured it—and the surly chef is a wizard with crêpes. Marley expects to spend a leisurely week or two in Wildwood Cove, the quaint, coastal community where she used to spend her summers, but then Cousin Jimmy is found murdered, sprawled on the rocks beneath a nearby cliff.

After she stumbles across evidence of stolen goods in Jimmy’s workshop, Marley is determined to find out what’s really going on in the not-so-quiet town of Wildwood Cove. With help from her childhood crush and her adopted cat, Flapjack, Marley sinks her teeth into the investigation. But if she’s not careful, she’s going to get burned by a killer who’s only interested in serving up trouble."

Title:  The Crepes of Wrath [Prologue] 

Author:  Sarah Fox

Publisher:  Alibi

Series:  A Pancake House Mystery

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating;  Four

Review:

"The Crepes of Wrath" by Sarah Fox

My Thoughts...

This read for me was just a free preview  of the story 'The Crepes of Wrath.'  This seems to be a good foodie thriller mystery that will keep your attention and have you wanting to know who had killed 'Cousin Jimmy.' Marley McKinney who was from Seattle was visiting helping run her cousin's 'The Flip Side Pancake House' but later be kept busy trying to find out who had murdered her cousin. This seems like a good read to get into along with those dishes of 'pancakes, waffles, crepes along with some good recipes that I understand are located in the back of the novel.  So, to find out 'who done it' I will have to pick up the remember of the novel to find out what will be coming next in the good mystery read.

Thank you instaFreebie for the prologue of "The Crepes of Wrath."

Solitary Horseman By: Deborah Camp

Book Description....

"Hatred is Easy. Love Takes Courage.
He’s known her his whole life, but he never really knew her until she revived in him emotions he thought had died on the Civil War battle fields.

The Civil War is over, but the battles continue.
Callum Latimer returned from the war to a life he didn’t want and with inner battle scars he can’t heal.
Banner Payne clutched desperately to the remaining shreds of the life she’d known, but she is losing her grip.
Brought together by bad luck and cruel twists of fate, Callum and Banner forge a partnership they hope will keep them afloat even as neighboring Texas ranchers go under and their land is snapped up by opportunists.
Fate smiles on them and Callum and Banner find the missing pieces of themselves in each other.
Healing begins as their hearts are awakened. Now they must remain strong in their determination to forge a more peaceful existence and not be poisoned by the bitterness of a country still divided."

Title:  Solitary Horseman

Author:  Deborah Camp

Publisher:  D. C.

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Solitary Horseman" by Deborah Camp

My Thoughts....

This historical western romance was another one of this author's good reads.  This was a beautifully told story of Callum Latimer and Banner Payne.  I loved how these two were brought together due to the fact that Banner needed some help  on her farm and from that a partnership was formed.  Now what did this consist of?  With both of these two main characters needing healing how will this affect them as they help each other by "finding the missing pieces of themselves in each other."  I loved the story and the characters were all well developed, defined. portrayed and very believable giving the reader a intriguing read that will keep you turning the pages.  In the end will Callum and Banner get their HEA?  Well, you will just have to pick up this good historical romance to see how this will all come out.

Thank you to the author for the gift of the read for my honest review.

Dare To Surrender By: Carly Phillips

Book Description...

"Part of Invitation to Eden

After ending a relationship to a cheating, domineering man, Isabelle Masters takes off in her leased Mercedes, only to be arrested for grand theft and hauled to a local police station. To her surprise, she is rescued by the most unlikely person possible, Gabriel Dare, a man she’s been attracted to for far too long. Gabe offers Isabelle freedom along with an invitation to Eden, an exclusive island resort where everything and anything is possible.

Although Gabe yearns to possess Isabelle, he knows all too well he must fight his primitive need to bind her to him, and instead help bring out the independent woman she yearns to become – or risk losing her for good.

A woman who needs to run her own life. A man who needs to exert control. Can she surrender to his erotic demands without losing her sense of self once more?"

Title:  Dare To Surrender

Author:  Carly Phillips

Publisher:  C. P.

Series:  NY Dares #1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Dare To Surrender" by Carly Phillips

My Thoughts...

This was a beautiful first story of the NY Dare series.  The two Isabelle and Gabe really had it going on as being perfect for each other.  The rescue from Isabelle's first boyfriend was really something else. It was quite interesting seeing how Isabelle was finally able to see just who see was and be able to figure how just what she wanted for her life.  And then their was Gabe [so protective]...oh my, my, my!  However, it seems like Gabe had some secrets that he was trying to keep but...I guess this is where I say you will have to pick up 'Dare To Surrender' to see how well this author brings it all out to the readers.  I thought this was a wonderful erotic and passionate read of how two lost souls found each other.

I received a copy via Insta-Freebie for an honest review.

If I Loved You By: Mary J. Williams

Book Description...

"Welcome to Harper Falls, Washington. A place where everything you ever dreamed of can be yours. Especially love.

If all you wanted was one night would you take a chance on a man who wanted forever?
Rose O'Brian wants to spice up her love life, and she knows that Jack Winston is just the man to help her. Unfortunately, Jack has a secret that is keeping his from the one thing he wants more than his next breath--Rose.

Rose has never believed in a happily ever after ending for herself; emotional scars run too deep. She tells Jack it's one night or nothing, but what she can't admit to him or herself is that he is the first man that has ever had her dreaming of more. When a demon from her past rears its ugly head will Rose have the strength to reach for what she wants? Can Jack convince her they have a future worth fighting for?

Book one in the Harper Falls series."

Title:  If I Loved You

Author:  Mary J. Williams

Publisher:  M. J. W. 

Series:  Harper Falls, Book 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"If I Loved You" by Mary J. Williams

My Thoughts....

I loved this sweet romantic novel that takes place in Harper Falls, Washington.  If anyone needed love it was Rose O'Brian who had been tormented from childhood and had thoughts that she would never love anyone.  Now why was that?  What had happened in Roses life that had her thinking that way?    This will definitely be a page turner as the reader finds out what had happened in Rose's life that made her think the way she had about love.  Will things change  after she meets Jack Winston

Will he be able to change her mind about love?  I loved Rose's friendship she had with Dani and Tyler. This story will be a very emotional ride for Rose and Jack. This is one of those stories that will break you heart with all that has gone on with Rose and will she be able to rise above it? Well, to see what all goes on you will have to pick up the good romantic read to see will there be a HEA for these two?   

Copy provided by the publisher through Net Galley for an honest review.