What Janie Wants By: Rhenna Morgan

Book Description...

"Signing divorce papers the same week she turned forty wasn’t part of Janie McAlister’s happily ever after. With an empty nest and no cheating spouse to look after, her future’s in desperate need of a makeover. Her quirky sister’s tropical getaway gift seemed a perfect place to start. But instead of thatched roof huts and designer pools, she’s landed at the one seventies throwback in the Riviera Maya—and caught the attention of a bold young man who won’t take no for an answer.

Zade Painel’s a man on a mission—grab some much needed R&R at Gypsy Cove, and figure out how to reclaim his boudoir photography business. He never thought the answer would come in the form of a curvy, forty-year-old redhead and an accidental knee to the ‘nads, but Janie’s a force of nature with a penchant for fixing things. She’s also sexy as hell, despite her hangup with him being a younger man.

He’ll show her age is just a number, starting with a very grown up invitation—stick to what society says is right, or give time and attention to her own desires and claim what Janie wants."

Title: What Janie Wants
Author: Rhenna Morgan
Publisher: R. M.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"What Janie Wants" by Rhenna Morgan

What a good contemporary romance that will keep your attention till the end. For Janie [at 40 years old] would have never thought she would be in a nudist resort in Mexico and meeting the sexy Zade was icing on the cake. What was Zade goal? Was it to make a woman look and feel good... oh yes, that was his occupation and believe me that was what he did for Janie. Now, I don't want to tell too much of the story...I want you to pick up this good read and see for yourself how well this author presents it to her readers. It is delightful fun read that will definitely put a smile on your face as you read and get caught up in this 'well written, polished and emotionally moving romance story with some stormy sexy encounters.!' It was quite interesting in how a younger man could see just how this older woman felt about so many things especially after what had happened to get her from her ex husband. He falls deeply in love with Janie and is there to show her the way. I liked how this author was able to bring into the picture the aunt and uncle Arlo. Both of these two really added in this story. How will this all affect Janie's confidence over Zades age [26]? He is actually not much older than Jane's son. Wow! Will this older women gain the confidence in finding her place in life in what Janie really wants? What a story this was as we see that this wasn't only a romance story but being able to see that love and partnership can come to you in any kind of package if we only allow ourselves to feel it. Will Zade be able to win her over and help her see herself in 'new light?' Now, what about all that is going on in Zades life with his 'boudoir photographer company?'

I truly love the way he 'compliments Jane at every turn, supports and inspires her to want to live life wholeheartedly.' Wow, that was really something to read about! If you are looking for a for a little exotic and romance you have come to the right place for a 'fun and flirty' read that I would recommend to you as a quick good read. Was this a 'cougar read' well, again you will have pick this one up and see for yourself what you think!

Thanks to the author for winning a copy of her novel.

Be With Me By: Author Aja

Book Description...

"Maya and Roman return in part two of the Unexpected trilogy:
In Unexpected, you met Maya and Roman; two people that were total opposites of one another, who were immediately attracted to one another from the start. Their banter and instant chemistry led to intellectual stimulation, days, and many nights of heated passion, and they fell head over heels in love. In that love two years ago, Maya and Roman also discovered it was going to take more than just their love if they planned to make it work. And things between them settled in perfectly. Now Maya has the man of her dreams and Roman has found his perfect woman … but is perfect really enough? Things begin to come apart at the seams when Maya has suddenly come under the influence of outside forces that have her thinking that maybe perfect isn't enough and she should want more. Will Maya cause irreparable damage in her quest for a more perfect situation or are these two really meant to be together?"

Title:  Be With Me

Author: Aja 

Publisher:  She Loves World Publishing

Series:  The Unexpected Series Book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Be With Me" by Author Aja

My Thoughts....

What a sweet,  sexy romantic read of these two Maya and Roman.  Wow, they have gone through
so much together that it was a little hard for me to believe drama was coming again for these two.
Will their love for each other be able to save them and they get and keep their HEA in the end?
Will they be able to finally communicate with each other?  Well, you will have to pick up "Be With Me" to find out.  I loved the ending and you the reader will too.  My suggestion would be to read
this author Book one "Unexpected" and then read this novel to truly understand the whole good read.

Thanks to the author for a copy of this book for a fair and unbiased review.

Breaking Her Rules By: Author Aja

Book Description....

"Savanah Burnett had spent much of her life shunning convention and the rules that kept people in their lane. Though she had tons of fantastic memories because of it, she also experienced some difficulties she’d much rather forget. Deciding to start a new job, in a new city with a new attitude which included playing by the rules, she takes a vacation as a restart. That’s where she runs into a man that could only be defined as Mr. Irresistible.
Joseph Farrington had only one thing in mind when going for a stroll around the resort where his brother had just tied the knot: finding some of his own fun. But what he doesn’t know is that one night of pure passion with the playful and sexy stranger would not only be unforgettable but follow him back home away from paradise they created on the island.
Note: This novella is a stand alone but if you want to familiarize yourself with some of the characters, read I Am Yours."

Title:  Breaking Her Rules

Author: Aja

Publisher:  She Loves World Publishing

Series:  Love and Passion Series Book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Breaking Her Rules" by Author Aja

My Thoughts....

A beautiful erotic romance that I found a very intriguing novella read that was about Savannah Burnett and Joe Farrington who meant at his brothers wedding in Barbados.   I found the read a little predictable but still a well told story that will keep you turning the pages to the very end.  It was quite a read of how these two people meant and will be brought back together in quite a surprising way...through work...Will there careers become a problem?   Now, what problems will this present to them?   There was definitely a attraction that will present some erotic romance that will give the reader quite a hot steamy passionate sexy read.  What were some of the rules that Savannah thought she had in place due to some rules from a previous encounter? I like all the characters...[Savannah & Joe] including the secondary characters [Noah & Amara] to name a few who were well developed, portrayed giving the reader a good erotic romantic good read.  I liked that ending...leaving you wondering will they finally get to their HEA?

Thanks to the author for a copy of this book for a fair and unbiased review.

Just A Kiss By: Denise Hunter

Book Description...

"Riley Callahan’s plans to reveal his secret feelings for his best friend are derailed when his life is drastically altered in Afghanistan.

Watching the love of his life fall for his brother was enough to send Riley straight to boot camp. But over a year later, he’s officially a marine, and Beau and Paige are no longer an item. When Riley’s tour in Afghanistan is up, he intends to confess his feelings to Paige and win his best friend’s heart once and for all.

But all that changes when an IED takes the life of a comrade and leaves Riley an amputee. Now he’s heading home, injured and troubled. His plans to win Paige are a distant dream. She deserves so much more than the man that’s left. All he can do now is put some healthy distance between them. But upon his return he discovers his family has arranged for him to stay with Paige.

Paige is a nurturer at heart and happy to take care of her best buddy. By all appearances Riley is adjusting miraculously well to his disability. But as the days pass, Paige begins to see that the smiles and laughter are just a mask for the pain he’s hiding. To make matters worse, her job is in serious jeopardy. The animal shelter that she’s poured her heart into has lost its funding, and she has three months to come up with the money needed to save it.

As the weeks wear on, Paige’s feelings for Riley begin to shift into uncharted territory. Why is she suddenly noticing his arm muscles and the way his lips curl at the corners? Will she be able to deny her feelings for another Callahan brother? And will Riley let his heart heal so he can let Paige in?"

Title:  Just A Kiss

Author:  Denise Hunter

Publisher:  Thomas Nelson

Series:  Summer Harbor #3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four 

Review:

"Just A Kiss" by Denise Hunter

My Thoughts......

"Just A Kiss" was the third beautifully written 'Summer Harbor Series' featuring Riley Callahan and Paige Warren.  I loved how this author was able to present to us such a interesting intriguing read that will hold your attention all the way to the very end.  The way these two finally got together was truly a work of art and the funny thing about it all ... both had feelings for each other at one time or another for each other. This  will be quite a 'emotional journey' as well as a lots of drama for these two to finally see the writing on the wall. I did also like the way the Christian aspect comes into the read. I wasn't sure I understood how  Riley's PTSD was dealt with after he came back home but I guess it comes out OK in the end. It was true that he needed some help [therapy] and it was only when he saw that he need help will he get it before it's too late for him and Paige?  Will these two get their HEA? This is the time that I will say you will have to pick up this good read to see for yourself how this author brings it all out to the readers. With Riley and Paige being friends very early on was definitely a plus for these two main characters. Add to that all the help from the secondary characters....[Beau, Zac, Aunt Trudy, Lucy] to name a few it seemed to be help all around  that was there all was needed was to be asked.   I found the characters for the most part well well developed, portrayed, believable that help gives the reader a well told story.  I felt that this was quite a touching story after all was said and done.  This is a standalone read but I wished that I had read the first two series to have found out what all had happened earlier in the stories of the rest of the Callahan brothers.

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

All The Good Parts By: Loretta Nyhan

Book Description....

"At thirty-nine, Leona Accorsi is broke, single, back in school, and living in her sister Carly’s basement. She’s perfectly content being quirky Auntie Lee to Carly’s four children. That is, until Leona’s doctor tells her that if she wants to have a child, she’d better do it now.
Leona does want a baby. She always has, but the circumstances have never been right. Now she has a huge decision to make: face motherhood on her own or risk missing out on its rewards.
Unfortunately, she’s let her romantic life go stagnant. She barely even knows any single men. She has just a few prospects: a Vietnam vet and partial amputee, his intimidating son, the sweet but troubled man who tutors her niece, and a fellow nursing student she’s never actually met.
As Leona discovers more about each one, she realizes any of them could be the right man for the job. The more important question is, has she become the right woman?"

Title:  All The Good Parts
Author:  Loretta Nyhan
Publisher:  Lake Union Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"All The Good Parts" by Loretta Nyhan

My Thoughts....

What happens when Leona's gynecologist [Dr. Bridget] tells her 'now's the time' especially if she was thinking of having a baby.  We find Leona being single, 39 years old, working as a health care aid while working on the nursing degree [online]limited income,living with her sister Carly, her husband and their four children. Now, this is where this story will get very interesting with Leona trying to choose a sperm donor.   What will Leona do about this situation?  Who will she turn to for advice since she wasn't dating anyone?  What was up with her sister Carly?   Be ready for this story to take on quite a few twist and turns as Leona starts her journey of picking a donor which will not be a easy choice.  "What guy will Leona choose?"  I loved how I was able to correctly guess whom it would be!

The author gives the reader some very intriguing characters....from Leona, to Carly, Donal, Maura, Daryl, Jerry, Paul, Estelle to name a few that will give one well developed, likable, portrayed, relatable, believable, quirky and in the end giving  a warm fun humorous read [the baby shower scenes].  I found it very intriguing who Leona turns to as well as whom she received advice from.  I liked the growth pattern that the reader will see develop by the end of this read  of this heroine.  This is where I say you will have to pick up this engaging good heart felt read to see how well this author will present this story to her readers.  In the end the reader will get a novel that shows and deals with 'family, friends, disappointment, love. self discovery and hope.'

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

The Unbroken Line of the Moon (The Valhalla Series Book 1) By: Johanne Hildebrandt

Book Description....

"In this savage saga of love, war, lust, and magic set in the tenth century, young Sigrid is destined to be the mother of the king of the Nordic lands that would become Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and England.
A devout believer in the old Nordic gods, Sigrid is visited regularly in her dreams by the goddess Freya, who whispers to her of the future. Though Sigrid is beautiful, rich, arrogant, and matchlessly clever, her uncanny ability to foresee the future and manipulate the present guides her through dangerous politics as a bloody war between Vikings and Christians rages on.
Sigrid’s father wants her to marry Erik, a local king, to secure the peace between the Goths and the Swedes. Thinking she is doing Freya’s will, she accepts the marriage offer, only to find that her destiny lies not with Erik but with Sweyn, a warrior who dreams of dethroning Harald Bluetooth, the legendary ruler of Denmark. Will Sigrid sacrifice her will for the greatest Viking kingdom of all time, or will she follow her heart at the risk of losing everything?"

Title:  The Unbroken Line of the Moon
Author:  Johanne Hildebrandt
Publisher:  AmazonCrossing
Series:  The Valhalla Book 4
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"The Unbroken Line of the Moon" by Johanne Hildebrandt

My Thoughts.....

This was a different kind of genre for me being a historical [Norse] mythology fiction read of the 'Vikings' [folk lore] however,  I did find it a rather interesting read that did keep my attention of following Sigrid's Viking life. Be ready for a little bit of it all from 'power, politics, religion, friends, enemies, love, allegiances, slaves, religious conflicts [Norns Gods], magic, violence's, battles, sex scenes, rapes, incest, marriages' and I am sure I have left something out...oh yes 'gory glory.'  I found that this author does a very good job in the thought and translation as she delivers to her readers quite a 'powerful read' to the very end that definitely showed a lots of research.  I did also  enjoy reading through the 'appendix of important  people and the glossary' that was located at the end of the read.

Prime Read First for September, 2016

Stolen Moments By: Tara Mills

Book Description...

"Ella knew what Neil wanted when he called, what they both wanted. Did she dare? Was an hour of passion worth the lies,broken commitments, and the risk of getting caught? Yes."

Title:  Stolen Moments
Author:  Tara Mills
Publisher:  Crimson Frost Books
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  Five
Review:

"Stolen Moments" by Tara Mills

My Thoughts....

I loved it!  What a interesting role play this was for Ella and Neil.  Be ready for a short wonderful read that's full of  'passion' that is one hot sexy read.  Will Ella and Neil get all that they needed from each other?  Well, you will just have to pick up this sexual story to see how it all comes out.  Do you think Ella will make it home in time to make dinner for her family?

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

Last Call An Inspiration, Iowa Novella By Jen Doyle

Book Description...

Strictly the 'Last Call' for Bobby and Jayne!

Title:  Last Call  Am Inspiration, Iowa Novella
Author:  Jen Doyle
Publisher: J. D.
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Last Call" by Jen Doyle

My Thoughts...

What a beautiful read.  Truly these two [Bobby and Jayne] are made for each other but what will it take for them to get there?   Who was Michaela Rose?  Will they get their HEA?  Good short read!

Of Beast and Bonds By: N.D. Jones

Book Description.....

"In a world of mystery and magic, sometimes old bonds must be broken before new ones can be formed. Who knew that finding one's soul mate would test bonds and unleash beasts?

Mami Wata and Oya are now free from their watery prison and ready to wage a battle five hundred years in the making. Special Agent Assefa Berber and Dr. Sanura Williams are the prophesized Cat and Fire Witch of Legend. To save the world from Mami Wata, a water goddess with a bloody thirst for power and an insatiable appetite for death and destruction, they must defeat her beasts and the Water Witch of Legend.

Assefa and Sanura are fully in love but possess only a partial mate bond. While Sanura has merged their auras, bonding Assefa's cat spirit to her, she has yet to accept his claiming bite. Their incomplete mate bond and their new relationship are tested when Mami Wata sets her malevolent eyes on them, manipulating beasts, sacrificing humans, and creating heartache. Can their bond survive, or will they drown under the vicious tide of godly might?"

Title:  Of Beasts And Bonds

Author:  N.D. Jones

Publisher:  Kuumba Publishing 

Series:  Death and Destiny # 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Of Beast and Bonds" by N.D. Jones

My Thoughts......

This novel  was a the second in the 'Death and Destiny' which featured.....

Special Agent Assefa Berber and Dr. Sanura Williams picks up where book one left off [from the extensive world built around Western African lore and their culture]. The readers gets a paranormal romance [darker preternatural element] that was quite complexed. in how this author presents this dramatic story to the reader.  How will this couple have a relationship and 'the fate that will fight against them?  Why wasn't this relationship not complete? What did Sanura's father have to do with that situation?  How would these two main characters deal with 'adversity, strife, betrayal, death, trials and tribulations?'  How will 'having faith, love and strength' aid these two as the deal with all that is put in front of them?  To find out all these answers to the questions and much more  you will have to pick up the well written read and see for yourself how well this author brings it all out to the reader.

Be ready for a interesting long  mythology ride as this author take you in a story full of 'strife, turmoil,  mythical depictions, murders, vivid imagery, battles, destruction's, betrayals and death.'

The characters from [Sanura, Assefa, Rashad, Makena, Mike, Mimi Wata, Omar, Greg Zareb, Omar, Sam, Stephen, Manute, Dahad, Najja, Michael, Cynthia, Eric, Rachel, Pilar, Paul] and  to name a few were well developed, strong, willed,  portrayed with imaginations that were off the chart giving the reader one good read that will definitely keep your attention to the end. This author really knows how to give the readers some interesting 'hot sexy love scenes.'  In the end will these two Assefa and Sanura [ Fire Witch and Cat of Legend] get their HEA?

If you are looking for a very strong and entertaining read [of African Mythology with some urban fantasy/paranormal romance] then you have come to the right place for "Of Beast and Bonds" will give it all to you.  

I received a copy by winning a complementary read of 'Of Beast and Bonds' and this is my honest opinion.

Beyond The Face Of The Movies By D.C. Lassiter

Book Description....

"Have you ever wondered why after watching a movie you are left with a residue of emotions? Perhaps after the credits have rolled off your screen, you've experienced a sense of peace, empowerment, exhilaration, fear or maybe a better understanding of how to deal with a personal issue you've struggled with.
Watching a Hollywood movie can be a bit like a brain teaser such as the Rubin Face which leaves you searching for the optical illusion and wondering whether you see the young lady or the old woman.
Many times God challenges us to go deeper than the surface of the movie, in the hope that we will discover principles that can be gleaned from beneath the excitement and buzz of the film. By juxtaposing Hollywood movies and biblical characters, the author connects the dots for the reader so that they are guided through fundamental biblical truths in order to better understand and navigate through their own life challenges on a daily basis.
What does Bruce Almighty have in common with the biblical Samson? What is Prophet Jonah doing in the Wizard of Oz instead of going down to Nineveh? Find out in this fun and feisty easy-to-read book, and while you are at it–take the time to look beyond the surface of the movie and you will sense God speaking to you in encouraging, practical and at times convicting ways."

Title:  Beyond The Face Of The Movies

Author:  D. C. Lassiter

Publisher:  Pneuma Springs Publishing

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Beyond The Face Of The Movies" by D.C. Lassiter

My Thoughts....

This was quite a thought provoking read that will definitely keep your attention.  Why?  What was this novel about?  I liked how this author presented the reader with ... "This non-fiction book will produce meaningful lessons and real life examples in order to help its readers better navigate, naturally and spiritually, through devastating or wonderful circumstances in their own lives today."
I found it very alluring in how the author gives us as well analyzed contrast of the 'Hollywood and
Biblical movies along with their characters. As we read through each section of the contents from
"Supernatural Powers, Fallen, You Get What You Deserve, Sure of what you Hope for, Skin Deep, Perfectly Positioned, Uncertain, Unsinkable, Weeds of Life, A Shepherd With the Heart Of A King to Change' ['eleven short stories that can be read anytime separately or collectively']  the reader will get quite a exclusive nonfiction read where you will learn so much from each of the chapters that dealt with 'gratitude, stamina and self discovery.' It was very intriguing in how this author connects it all spiritually, using wisdom and even some humor.   One of my favorite chapters was "Supernatural Powers" that I thought was beautifully done as it brings out some very stimulating scriptures.  Why? Now, this is where I say you will have to pick this read up to see for yourself how well this author presents it to the reader.  Another one of my favorite chapters in this novel was the last one 'Change'
which talked about 'people will want to 'change.' At the end of the story I loved how this author ended this story of change...talking about Saul and  Ebenezer Scrooge....

  "I would like to end this story with a part of the song Ebenezer Scrooge sang after he awoke the next morning, the morning after the scales came off his eyes, the morning after being in his own abandoned building waiting for the outcome of his life. He woke wanting to scream out what he had discovered at 1:00am, 2:00am, and 3:00am when the conflicts in his heart, mind, and spirit would not let him sleep. Scrooge wakes up and says this:

“Perhaps it didn’t happen after all, but perhaps it did. But I’m alive... I’M ALIVE!  I’ve gotta chance to change, and I will not be the man I was. I‘ll begin again... I‘ll build my life.... I will live to know that I fulfilled my life. I’ll begin today...throw away the past... and the future I will build will be something that will last. I will take the time... I have left to live, and I will give it all, that I have left to give. I will live my days, for my fellow men, and I live in Praise, of that moment when... 
I was able to begin... again.”  

Now, to truly understand the above quote you will have to pick up the wonderful read and see what it is all about for yourself.

After reading "Beyond The Face Of The Movies"  will it send you running out to buy the movie?  ..Well, if thIS  is so there will be definitely a great possibility that it may have you wanting to get your  popcorn and favorite beverage ready for your movie!

Will you find this novel a 'easy to read' book? Yes, just pick up this good read as you will be encouraged in more ways than one 'packed with principles and promises'  that I would recommend to you as a good read.

Thank you to the author/publisher for the PDF read  of 'Beyond The Face Of The Movies' for my honest opinion.

My Husband's Love Child - a novella By: Brian W. Smith

Book Description....

"Sonya Lucas is the model wife. Her husband Eric is not the model husband. The couple's marriage is in jeopardy because Sonya can't have kids and Eric desperately wants a son. Tired of waiting for his wife to give him a child, Eric has a "love child" with his mistress Ann. Will Sonya accept the baby to save her marriage? Or will she take matters into her own hands. Deceit has consequences...serious consequences."

Title:  My Husband's Love Child
Author:  Brian W. Smith
Publishing:  Hollygrove Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"My Husband's Love Child" by Brian W. Smith

My Thoughts...

I found this another good read from the author.  The two main characters [Sonja and Eric] were off the chart but I must say that Sonya was the bomb.  That ending truly left me saying wow.  The author knows how to get and keep your attention with that little twist that you may not see coming.  The title really fits this novella.   Very well done to the author!

I choose this read for my Amazon Prime September, 2016.

Good Men By: Jennifer Weiner

Book Description...

"A prequel to Jennifer Weiner’s bestselling and beloved debut, "Good Men" takes us into the world and mind of Bruce Guberman, on the night of an ill-fated bachelor party, when Bruce and his friends decide to kidnap his girlfriend Cannie's rat terrier Nifkin. A tender, riotously funny short story, "Good Men" is about five men and their unlikely friendships and also about love, marriage, and what gives two people the courage to link hands and jump off the cliff."



Title: Good Men
Author: Jennifer Weiner
Publisher: Atria Books
Series: Cannie Shapiro 0.5
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"Good Men" by Jennifer Weiner

My Thoughts....

This author gives the reader a decent short story prequel to the novel 'Good in Bed.' I had read the novel before I read this read "Good Men" and really I was able to understand a little more about Bruce along with his childhood friends. One thing for sure that I did learn was that at time I believe Bruce really did loved Cannie and that's all I have to say on that issue.

Highland Knight Of Rapture By: Amy Jarecki

Book Description...

"Another steamy Scottish historical romance by Amy Jarecki set in 1493: After five years of marriage, Lady Helen has failed to produce an heir. Giving birth to a lass, Helen’s husband rejects her and openly takes a lover while she endures in silence.

But war is brewing. The MacDonald feud with the crown comes to a head and with it arrives Helen’s childhood friend, Sir Eoin MacGregor. Eoin and his men join with the MacIain Clan to quell the rebellion. But when he witnesses Helen suffer undue humiliation, his troubles escalate tenfold.

If Eoin helps the lady escape, he will break the sanctity of marriage. Worse, the king has commanded Eoin to fight beside her barbarous husband. To rescue Helen from tragedy worse than death, will the gallant knight find the strength to mask his deepest desires to save the woman he’s always loved?"

Title:  Highland Knight of Rapture
Author:  Amy Jarecki
Publisher:  Rapture Books
Series:  Highland Dynasty # 4
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  5
Review:

"Highland Knight of Rapture" b Amy Jarecki

My Thoughts....


What a amazing  captivating series..'Highland Knight of Rapture #4' that featured Lady Helen and Sir Eoin MacGregar in this historical 'Scottish' romantic read. In this read the reader will find a little bit of it all...from 'treachery, deceit, secrets, conflict, action, love and passion' that will also give the reader gets quite a moving plot, adventure and romance. We find from the read that Lady Helen had gotten  into this marriage by her brother{Duncan] who was  unbeknown to him who turned out to be 'Helen's worst nightmare.' As the stories continues we learn that Eoin had secretly loved [Lady Helen since childhood but will Eoin be able to rescue her from that horrible husband [Aleck] after he sees what situation that she lived under? What will happen as Lady Helen tries to get an annulment from the Pope?  Will these two get their HEA? This is where you will have to pick up this good read to see for yourself how well this author gives the reader such a well written read.  I found the hero quite a take charge person definitely a 'knight' and with the heroine being a strong person who had truly tried to keep her marriage intacted to that awful brutish husband Aleck MacIain. I liked how this author will keep your attention and have you turning the pages till the very end.  Even though this was a series read this is a standalone read.

I received this book from NOR for an honest review.

Embrace Me By: Ann Marie Walker and Amy K. Roger

Book Description....

"Hudson Chase and Alessandra Sinclair's heartracing romance continues in this hot, new novella in the Chasing Fire series.

Return to the dangerous and seductive romance that got pulses racing in the Chasing Fire trilogy...

It took ten years for Hudson Chase and Alessandra Sinclair to find their happily ever after, and they’re not about to let anything get in their way... 

Nothing could stop the passion between Allie and Hudson—not time or distance. Not even tragedy, betrayal, and blackmail. But now they’re facing a new challenge: wedding planning. And while Allie’s social status demands she put on the event of the century, her well-intentioned family and friends have her doubting her walk down the aisle...

Hudson knows tensions are pushing Allie to the brink, but he’s not letting her throw everything away over some flowers and cake. He has plans for his new bride, and unlike their last adventure, he's determined that this time there will be no unwelcome surprises. But for all his determination and control, there’s one element Hudson Chase has never been able to predict—and she has some adventurous ideas of her own...

Praise for the Chasing Fire trilogy
“Exceptional...Seriously sexy and sinfully steamy. Can’t wait for more from this writing duo!”—Tara Sue Me, New York Times bestselling author of the Submissive series

“Walker and Rogers strike the perfect balance between blistering physical desire and heartfelt connections…”—RT Book Review"

Title:  Embrace Me

Authors:  Ann Marie Walker and Amy K. Rogers

Publisher: InterMix

Series:  Chasing Fire #3.5

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: 5

Review:

"Embrace Me" by Ann Marie Walker and Amy K. Roger

My Thoughts.....

This was one happy ending to a well written 'Chasing Fire Trilogy' especially after what all had happen to Alessandra and Hudson in the earlier series. This continuation  in this 3.5 is full of fun and the passion [hot, sexy and steamy] that these two had for each other was something that will be thought about long after the read especially after what they had gone through [from the other series]
'from tragedy, betrayal and blackmail.'

Now that Allie and Hudson are married why were they planning another happy event?    What will happen as it seems like Allie has a little too much on her plate?   Will these two get the wedding they want especially after what had happen to them earlier? What 'adventurous idea'  did Allie have up her sleeve that Hudson didn't know about?   To get the answers to all of  these questions and more  you will just have to pick up this good read to see what all this is about.  I don't want to spoil it for you!

 I loved the take charge[alpha]  that Hudson has and that planning of their wedding was simply off the chart...well done. To really know what has gone on earlier in this well told story I would suggest the reader reads all three series first before reading this last one.  However, "Embrace Me"  along is a fun and yummy read.

I received this book from NOR for an honest review.

Now That I've Found You: New York Sullivans, by Bella Andre

Book Description....

"Millions of readers/listeners have fallen in love with the San Francisco and Seattle Sullivans. Now get ready to fall head over heels for the New York Sullivans!
World-renowned artist Drake Sullivan doesn't paint women. Ever. Not when he knows all too well just how destructive painter/muse relationships can be. But on the day Rosa Bouchard walks onto the cliffs outside his Montauk cottage, Drake is so captivated that he can't stop himself from bringing her to life on canvas.
Shocked and horrified by the nude photos of her that have just hit the Internet, reality TV star Rosa's every instinct is to run from her Miami home and hide. After driving all night, she ends up in Montauk, New York, where she doesn't know a soul and plans to lie low until she can figure out how to deal with the media firestorm - and her own mother, who seems all too happy to sell out Rosa's happiness for more fame, more fans, and more money. The very last thing Rosa expects is to find, and to fall for, a sinfully sexy man like Drake Sullivan.
Drake has never felt this way about anything he's painted...and he's definitely never felt this way about a woman. When they kiss, everything but sweet, breathless desire melts away. But can he convince Rosa to trust - and to love - again after such a devastating betrayal?"

Title:  Now That I've Found You
Author:  Bella Andre
Publisher:  Oak Press, LLC
Series:  New York Sullivans, Book #1 Audible
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"Now That I've Found You" by Bella Andre

My Thoughts...

This novel was right up there with all the other Sullivan novels by this author...and this one "Now That I've Found You was simply excellent!  And yes, I have read them all.  Truly Drake Sullivan [sexy and intense]  and Rosa Bouchard [sweet and passionate] were definitely meant  for each other ...a 'Reality TV Star and a Artist.'   But getting there will not be a easy  ride with each of these two characters who had some flaws to get over.  This was a beautifully well written story of just how that will happen.  Not wanting to spoil anything but only to say you must pick up the well written story and listen or read it for yourself.  The setting where this story takes place is simply beautiful....in the 'Montauk and the Adirondacks.'  The characters..Drake, Rosa, with the New York Sullivans [Suzanne, Harry, Alex and William] were simply well developed, defined and oh so believable giving the reader one interesting read.  Now, we Sullivan fans will be waiting for the next novel about another NY Sullivan series.

My Number One: Kasha and Knox By: Janice Ross

Book Description....

"Two friends. Two lovers.
Dark pasts. Uncertain futures.
Mindless passion. Wondrous pain.
One remarkable love. One powerful friendship torn apart in a seemingly unending battle. This is Knox Jackson and Kasha Davies’ story about the cost of being number one."

Title:  My Number One:  Kasha and Knox
Author:  Janice Ross
Publisher:  Blu Savant Press
Series:  Kasha and Knox # 1
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  Five
Review:

"My Number One:  Kasha and Knox" by Janice Ross

My Thoughts....

What a good read that this author gives the reader about Kasha and Knox.  How these two meet was really interesting.  We find Kasha had come from Miami now living in Delaware.  Will she find happiness after she meets Knox?  How long will it take for Kasha to want Knox?.  All while this is going on what will happen when another woman comes into this picture [Erika]? Is this a 'love triangle going on?   This read will definitely keep your attention because there is so much going on from Kasha, to Knox and back and forth and then add those secondary characters....Teagan, Erika, Rory, Bash, Vince and Tony and you will get one heck of a good story with  plenty of action, emotional drama and let's not leave out the very steamy sex scenes. In the end will there be a HEA?  To find out you must pick up 'My Number One:  Kasha and Knox to find out.  This was the first in this series so now the readers will be waiting for the next one...Teagan and Rory's story...'Too Bad for Love.'

Good In Bed By: Jennifer Weiner

Book Description...

"#1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Weiner brings to life an irresistibly funny and relatable heroine in the novel The Boston Globe called “funny, fanciful, extremely poignant, and rich with insight.”

For twenty-eight years, things have been tripping along nicely for Cannie Shapiro. Sure, her mother has come charging out of the closet, and her father has long since dropped out of her world. But she loves her friends, her rat terrier, Nifkin, and her job as pop culture reporter for The Philadelphia Examiner. She’s even made a tenuous peace with her plus-size body.

But the day she opens up a national women’s magazine and sees the words “Loving a Larger Woman” above her ex-boyfriend’s byline, Cannie is plunged into misery…and the most amazing year of her life. From Philadelphia to Hollywood and back home again, she charts a new course for herself: mourning her losses, facing her past, and figuring out who she is and who she can become."

Title:  Good In Bed

Author:  Jennifer Weiner

Publisher:  Atria Books

Series:  Cannie Shapiro #1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Good In Bed" by Jennifer Weiner

My Thoughts.....

A interesting read of what this plus size (16) girl [Cannie Shapiro] had gone through being called a fatty from childhood and even into her adult life.  We find Cannie now at the age of 28 a 'pop culture reporter' for the Philadelphia Examiner and all seemed well until her ex boyfriend (Bruce) writes a byline...."Loving a Larger Woman."  This definitely gives her quite a slap in the face.  What will Cannie do and how she handled this situations was truly something to read about. I had so many mixed feeling for this heroine because of the way she felt about herself [self-esteem] as she would goes through a little bit of it all...'facing her past, mourning her losses, figuring out just who she is and who she can become.'  This story will take the reader around in one huge circle presenting some very interesting situations and people...from Cannie's dad, her mom, her mom's lover and some interesting friends like Samantha, Maxi,  Peter an let's not leave out her dog Nifkin to name a few.  As Cannie plunged into misery how will she decide to make some changes in her life?  For me this is really what I felt this story was all about.  Be ready for a long story with lots and lots of drama and I will say there are some humorous parts that had me laughing out loud!

I loved this memorable passage....

 "I will love myself, and my body, for what it can do-- because it is strong enough to lift, to walk, to ride a bicycle up a hill, to embrace the people that I love and hold them fully, and to nurture a new life. I will love myself because I am sturdy. Because I did not--will not--break."

 Will Cannie get her HEA? ...Well,  you will have to pick up this read to find out.


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

World of de Wolfe Pack: Ivar The Red (Kindle Worlds Novella) (The Wolves of Brittany Book 2) By Victoria Vane

Book Description...

"A WARRIOR NEVER SURRENDERS… HER HEART

As the epic struggle to rule Brittany continues, Ivar the Red unexpectedly finds himself in charge of the Norse army after his brother, Valdrik, is severely wounded. Intensely loyal, Ivar is prepared to do everything to see their victory through—except taking a Breton wife. Nevertheless, Lady Emma of Quimper fascinates him more than any woman he’s ever known. Although her highborn status protects her from bondage, Ivar vows to claim her as his own.

Lady Emma of Quimper is determined to defend her home as fiercely as any knight, until she opens the gates to save an old friend from Viking invaders. But her trust has been misplaced, and she finds herself at the mercy of a bloodthirsty heathen—Ivar the Red. Pride keeps Emma from fully surrendering to the conquering lord of Quimper, even when she realizes he’s not quite the devil she imagined.

Ivar has always enjoyed a challenge, especially one from a beautiful Amazon with the heart of a warrior. Though she defies him at every turn, Ivar deals gently with Emma—until she betrays his trust and escapes. Refusing to be made a fool, Ivar sets out to recover his captive who is determined to return to Quimper at the head of an army. When Ivar finds her in the clutches of death, he suddenly realizes she matters far more than his injured pride and sexual desire. He will do anything to save her and give up everything to make her his."

Title:  World of de Wolfe Pack:  Ivar The Red 

Author:   Victoria Vane

Publisher:  Kindle World

Series:  The Wolves of Brittany Book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"World of de Wolfe Pack:  Ivar The Red" by Victoria Vane

My Thoughts.....

I loved this second series of ...The Wolves of Brittany...featuring Ivar The Red [another Viking brother] and Lady Emma of Quimper. I also loved how Lady Emma attempts to defend her home only to find she could not "fully surrender to the conquering lord of Quimper, even when she realizes he’s not quite the devil she imagined,"  It was so interesting seeing Ivan the Red who had vowed not to take a Breton wife...however, when he "finds her in the clutches of death, he suddenly realizes she matters far more than his injured pride and sexual desire." I don't want to spoil it for the reader other than just saying pick up the good read to see if these two will get their HEA?

 This author did a wonderful job of giving the readers a well written novella as we will be waiting for the next series: 'The Bastard of Brittany" featuring Bjorn and Gwened's story.

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

Snowfall On Haven Point By: RaeAnne Thayne

Book Description...

"There's no place like Haven Point for the holidays, where the snow conspires to bring two wary hearts together for a Christmas to remember 

It's been two rough years since Andrea Montgomery lost her husband, and all she wants is for her children to enjoy their first Christmas in Haven Point. But then Andie's friend asks a favor—to keep an eye on her brother, Sheriff Marshall Bailey, who's recovering from a hit and run. Andie will do anything for Wyn, even park her own misgivings to check on her grouchy, wounded bear of a brother.

Marshall hates feeling defenseless and resents the protective impulses that Andie brings out in him. But when a blizzard forces them together for the holidays, something in Marshall begins to thaw. Andie's gentle nature is a salve, and her kids' excitement for the holidays makes him forget why he never wanted a family. If only he and Andie can admit what they really want—each other—their Christmas wishes might come true after all."

Title:  Snowfall On Haven Point

Author:  RaeAnne Thayne

Publisher:  HQN Books
Series:  Haven Point # 5

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating; Five

Review:

"Snowfall On Haven Point" by RaeAnne Thayne

My Thoughts...

This was another good series of  the 'Haven Point' fifth series which deals with Andie Montgomery and Sheriff Marshall Bailey.  We find that Andie a widow is a newcomer to Haven Point with two children and a friend of Wyn Bailey who has asked her to 'take care of  her older brother while she and her family are out of town.' All Andrea wants is for her children to have a wonderful and safe holiday in their new home at Haven Point,  however, she can't say no but it is made quite clear that this isn't what Marshall wants.  He was definitely a 'total curmudgeon' and used to being in control. Now why is that?  Definitely both Andie and Marshall were 'polar opposites.'  Marshall had been hurt by a hit and run and has a broken leg and he just wants to find out who is responsible.

 There will be some mystery that will come out with what all has gone on in Haven Point.  One dealing with what had happened previous to Marshall and I will stop here and say you will have to get the rest from this good read.   I liked how this author puts these two together...one scared from a stalker and the other one not being receptive to having anyone help him. This will be a beautiful story of  'love, intrigue and people with secrets.'  What will happen as these two are forced to spend the holiday together due to a blizzard?  I also liked how this author was able to draw in such intriguing well written characters that will keep your attention all the way through the story as you are captured in the spirit of this town of Haven Point where caring is so evident  'even the good and the bad.' It was wonderful seeing 'how these two people helped each other strengthen their weakness.' Would I recommend this heartwarming story? YES!

I received this book from NOR for an honest review.

Christmas Comes To Main Street By Olivia Miles

Book Description....

"The mistletoe is out, and the gloves are off . . . 
'Tis the worst season to be single, but Kara Hastings won't let a little Christmas funk spoil the festive season. Sure, running her own bakery is a little harder than she expected, but she can handle it. And she'll prove it to a certain infuriatingly handsome, bossy Big City guy. She may be sugar and spice, but she can kick his butt twice.
Nate Griffin is in Briar Creek only for the holidays, and he refuses to fall for the whole "small town, candy cane-scented Christmas Wonderland" thing. He's more interested in the fresh-faced cookie chef who always knows exactly how to get under his skin. So when Nate challenges Kara in the town's big holiday contest, it's not just the competition that starts to heat up. If he's not careful, Kara won't just melt his icy resolve against a small-town Christmas . . . she'll melt his heart too."

Title:  Christmas Comes to Main Street

Author:  Olivia Miles

Publisher:  Mass Market Paperback

Series:  Briar Creek  5

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Christmas Comes to Main Street" by Olivia Miles

My Thoughts....

What a beautiful Christmas story that features Kara Hastings and Nate Griffin.  Well it seems like Kara is the last sister that is not engaged since now her sister Molly has come home saying she is getting married to Todd.  What was up with that since it seems that a year ago they had broken up.
Oh well!  Now we have Nate who has come to Briar Creek to be with is aunt during this Christmas holiday but he wasn't to happy being there.  Now, why was that?  After Kara and Nate meet due to bumping into each other will they be able to form a friendship that could possibly lead to a HEA?  This was a very good story of how each one of these two people will have something that they need to 'prove,' This story was so edifying as we see how hard Kara worked in her bakery when all she wanted was to prove to not only to herself but to others that she could stick with 'running her own bakery.'  Nate had such a horrible childhood being bullied and with all that had happened in his family's hardship he simply did not want any form of life where he would be poor, so he only had one goal in mind and that was always found working so that he would never have to suffer like his parents had done while raising him.   Even with all of that Nate had not really celebrated  Christmas holidays like forever.  So, when he arrives and his aunt is so excited wanting to win this contest that will involve his help and since its only him there since he had sent his parents on a cruise...Nate was left with no choice but to help her out with this contest because she wanted to win.  But then the tables will turn because after talking to Kara he even gets her involved in this Christmas contest.  Now, how will that involve him?  To find out you will just have to pick up the good series to see for yourself how well this author will bring it all out to the readers.  The characters will involve quite a few family members[many from past series] that will make this read so well developed, portrayed and believable giving the reader quite a interesting Christmas read where one may even like to visit this place called Briar Creek.  This novel is the fifth in this series and I am not sure if is this is the last but this one was truly one amazing sweet heart-warming romantic reads.


Thank you to NOR for giving me this read for my honest opinion.

To Have and To Hold By: Lauren Layne

Book Description....

"USA TODAY bestselling author Lauren Layne is the “queen of witty dialogue and sexy scenes” (Rachel Van Dyken)! Now, Sex and the City meets The Wedding Planner in The Wedding Belles, her sizzling brand new contemporary romance series about three ambitious wedding planners who can make any bride’s dream come true... but their own.

Discovering her fiance is an international con man just moments before they exchange vows devastates celebrity wedding planner Brooke Baldwin's business—and breaks her heart. Now a pariah in Los Angeles, she seeks a fresh start in New York City and thinks she’s found it with her first bridal client, a sweet—if slightly spoiled—hotel heiress. Then she meets the uptight businessman who’s holding the purse strings.

Seth Tyler wishes he could write a blank check and be done with his sister Maya's fancy-pants wedding. Unfortunately, micromanaging the event is his only chance at proving Maya’s fiance is a liar. Standing directly in his way is the stunning blonde wedding planner whose practiced smiles and sassy comebacks both irritate and arouse him. He needs Brooke’s help. But can he persuade a wedding planner on a comeback mission to unplan a wedding? And more importantly, how will he convince her that the wedding she should be planning... is theirs?"

Title:  To Have and To Hold

Author:  Lauren Layne

Publisher:  Pocket Books

Series:  The Wedding Belles # 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"To Have and To Hold" by Lauren Layne

My Thoughts....

After what had happened to Brooke Baldwin as she starts a new life in NY being a wedding planner working for Wedding Belles after her own disastrous wedding came to a abrupt end in L.A.  Brooke had high hopes about her new job until she meets her first clients older brother Seth Tyler.  We find from the read that Seth wanted to give his sister Maya the wedding of her dreams but he wasn't to sure about her groom Neil that she had only known for a few months.  This is where the plot thickens and we get a very interesting story that will involve the wedding planner,Brooke, Seth, Maya, Grant and a few other secondary characters [Heather, Alexis & Logan] that will add to this delicious story that seems genuine and so realistic.  What happens when Brooke has to deal with the unhappy Seth...the brother of Maya the bride?  There will be some misunderstanding about this hold deal...[hiring a PI,]?   Will Seth stop his controlling ways? Now what was that all about? What about Brooke with her trust issues?  Will there be some chemistry between Seth and Brooke?  Well, to find out you will have to pick up this good read to see for yourself how well this author brings it all out to her reader.    I will say this author has a way of capturing  the readers thoughts, emotions and even weaving them into the read where you will seem to be right there in the midst of it all.  The reader will be left wanting more answers that I am sure will come out in later series.  So, if you are looking for a good romance read "To Have and To Hold" will bring it to you featuring Brooke and Seth.

I received this book from NOR for an honest review.