Stuck in a Love Triangle, by Jade Jones

Book Description...

"Love don't live here anymore. Kelly is fed up with her husband's doggish, neglectful ways. She is consistently biting her tongue to keep the peace...however the minute their relationship takes a turn for the worse, Kelly is pushed into the arms of another man. And as they say, a shoulder to cry on becomes a d*** to ride on."

Title:  Stuck in a Love Triangle
Author:  Jade Jones
Publisher:  Jade Publications
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  Four
Review:

"Stuck in a Love Triangle" by Jade Jones

My Thoughts...

An interesting quick well written read that had quite a abrupt ending especially for Kelly, Jason and even Rome.  With all the drama that is so present in this read I had hoped for something less than heartbreaking but oh well, all stories do not have HEA as it was in this love triangle.  

Watching You: A terrifying thriller with a mind-bending twist (Detective Kerri Blasco Book 3), By J.A. Schneider

Book Description....

"A serial killer texts his victims first. A detective vows revenge. He comes after her.

In the chill of an October night, Detective Kerri Blasco is called to a bizarre murder scene. Leda Winfield, a young volunteer for the homeless, has been shot. Her cell phone displays the frightening text, WATCHING YOU, and into her back, hideously pushed with a hat pin, is a note with the same awful message. Leda's socialite family and friends insist that no one would have wanted to harm her, but Detective Kerri isn't convinced.

Until another random young woman is killed in exactly the same way. Kerri and her team profile a monstrous killer who enjoys terrifying his victims before stalking and killing them. But how does he get their phone numbers?

Kerri soon finds that the killer is after her, too, and that the key to finding him may just be in the homeless shelter. When the body count rises, she vows to stop the madman - even if it means battling her own personal trauma, risking her job, her love relationship with her boss Alex Brand, and her life."

Title:  Watching You

Author:  J. A. Schneider

Publisher:  R.G.S. Media

Series:  Detective Kerri Blasco Book 3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five
Review:

"Watching You" by J. A. Schneider

My Thoughts......

Another good thriller mystery read 'Watching You' that I thoroughly enjoyed the read! This novel is a third in this series.. 'Detective Kerri Blasco' which can be read as a standalone read.  This thriller mystery will get Detective Kerri Blasco involved with three murders..Leda Winfield, Tricia Simms and Patrick Vale.  However there will be a little twist in this read as these bizarre murders will involve Detective Blasco personally. I loved how this author was able to bring in information about the homeless as the reader will see from the read.  This will be a case with lots of twist and turns as this murderer is texting to his  victims 'WATCHING YOU' on their cell phones.Now, how will this be done?  It will be quite a case of 'cat and mouse' but Detective Blasco will not give up...'even if it means battling her own personal trauma, risking her job, her love relationship with her boss Alex Brand and her life.'  I don't want to spoil it for you other than to say if you are in for a good mystery thriller ...pick up "Watching You" to see how well this author gives to the reader another good story as Detective Kerri Blasco brings it all out front and center.

Thank you to the author for a early read of your novel for my honest thoughts of the read.

Helping Helper by Tara C. Allred

Book Description...

"He’s not a friend, he’s my husband. And he’s gone.” 

En route to Salt Lake City, intending to start over, their car breaks down near the struggling mining town of Helper, Utah—and then Tony leaves Kora behind.
​
Alone, broken and angry, especially that her family was right in their judgment against Tony, Kora decides to stay in Helper and aid in it’s art-centered transformation."
​
But in working to save her new home, Kora learns first love only happens once."

For a second chance at love, a much greater risk is required.

“...a good solid story. I was fooled a couple of times with the plot twists!” —E. Campbell

“...a beautiful piece of artwork. This novel is going to stick with me.” —B. Boman

Title:  Helping Helper

By:  Tara C Allred

Publisher:  Patella Publishing

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Helping Helper" by Tara C. Allred

My Thoughts....

What a story that showed when you turn it all loose and truly forgive you will be able to take hold of your life as it was for Kora who seemed to have a hard time with all she went through to get to the right part of her life s she learns to trust the right person.....herself!  What had happened when Kora's then husband Tony was simply horrible at what he had done  leaving her in Helper. However, was this a good thing due to the fact that in Helper it seemed like maybe Kora life was changing for the good in so many ways.  Will Kora even find a love there in Helper after she divorces Tony?  Working in the restaurant and becoming involved with the community activity working on the Plein air which was about "painting in natural light instead of a studio" and it seemed like all was going well for Kora but you guessed it...things don't always go the way they should. With Kora meeting a lots of wonderful people there in Helper as she really is starting to have a different view of her life after all that she had gone on with her ex husband but what will happen when her sister Tess tell Kora  really what had gone on in her on personal life with her husband Tony? How will this make Kora feel toward her sister who she had always thought of her as being miss prefect.  Will Kora and Tess be able to "make the right choices to find happiness?" And now Tony comes back in the picture and will this present a problems for Kora? Is Kora still wishing and hoping for a wonderful life she had written and read in her journal about this guy, Tony?   Now, I will say that Kora worked my last nerve at times as she seemed to drift back and forth but with a few interesting characters [from Tony, Martha, Tess, Luke, Colton, Greg] to name a few that will be in the story as some of them will hopefully keep her on the right path.  I enjoyed how this author was able to bring out all out of what had happened previously between Kora and her parents. The author gives the reader a little suspense toward the end that had me holding my breathe.  The story "Helping Helper" will definitely keep you turning the pages as this author will take the reader through a lots of it all from the 'wishy-washiness ' of the main character as [Kora] makes up up mind what is best for her and in the end I thought she was quite surprised at how things ended for her. At lease I was!  To find out how Kora life will come out from this story you will have to pick up the good read to see how well the author presents "Helping Helper" it to the reader.  

Hot Green Tea: The Delicious Series Vol.3 by Yolanda Williams

Book Description...

"The water is boiling and the poetic explicit words of Author/Poetess Yolanda Williams is making steam in is third book of The Delicious Series, to reminiscence on the pleasurable fetish for hot green tea.

Title:  Hot Green Tea
By:  Yolanda Williams
Publisher:  Moore & Poesy Publishing
Series: The Delicious Series Volume 3
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"Hot Green Tea" by Yolanda Williams

My View:

This erotic poetry by this author is very explicit and as it brings out this tale of  'Boiling Water and Flamin.'  All I can say is drinking a hot cup of 'Green Tea with honey and lemons' will never be the same for me after reading this author's steamy hot read about how it can make one feel definitely with the right partner.  Now this is a very adult read so please be aware of that and it is also a very short read that is one well written piece of poetry in a very sexy erotic poetic setting.  All that is left to say if you want to read it ... do as I did and pick it up and see what 'Hot Green Tea' is all about and how it has been presented especially for any of you have a 'fetish for hot green tea.'

The Forbidden Highlands By: Authors: Kathryn Le Veque, Eliza Knight, Terri Brisbin, Amy Jarecki, Collette Cameron, Emma Prince, Victoria Vane & Violetta Rand

Book Description...

"THE MAIDEN OF MORAY by VICTORIA Victoria Vane

FORBIDDEN HIGHLANDS ANTHOLOGY
A man without a past…
Abandoned at a monastery as a young child, Alexander serves two masters—God and the fading memories of his past life—the one he never got to live. As he nears the day to take his vows, he’s sent on a last sojourn into the real world to test his faith, and possibly his manhood. But one playful kiss in a moment of weakness awakens a dangerous desire.

A woman who doesn’t know her own heart…
Born from the line of two kings, Sibylla is abandoned by her sire as a child and then ruled illegitimate. Though she lives a happy life under her uncle’s protection, Sibylla craves more. But the hot-tempered beauty never imagines her fate lies in the hands of Alex, a would-be monk who hardly embodies her idea of a pious man of God.

As dark secrets from the past come to light, will Alex choose the safe and secure life he knows, or will he defy his holy orders for Sibylla and the life he was meant to live?"

Title:  The Forbidden Highlands

Authors:  Kathryn Le Veque, Eliza Knight, Terri Brisbin, Amy Jarecki, Collette Cameron, Emma Prince, Victoria Vane & Violetta Rand

Publisher:  Dragonblade Publishing, Inc.

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"The Forbidden Highlands" by: Kathryn Le Veque, Eliza Knight, Terri Brisbin, Amy Jarecki, Collette Cameron, Emma Prince, Victoria Vane & Violetta Rand

Featuring: The Forbidden Highlands..'The Maiden of Moray' .by Author Victoria Vane

My Thoughts...

This is a beautiful medieval Scotland story that is portrait in 'The Maiden Of Moray.'  The beautiful
details that are presented in the story is so well done giving you the feeling this you are there in the midst of it all.  The story features Alexander has been chosen as a tutor for the Domnall. Since Alexander is now getting to see the world before taking his vows what will happen when see sees Lady Sybilla?  What does she have in mind for him since she has never been kissed?  Will Alexander began to question whether taking his vows would be the best for him especially when 'secrets that have been long hidden from him' began to come out.  Will all of this alter what is out there for him?   Be ready for some very complex characters with some backstories that will keep the reader interested in what will come next.    Well, to find out how this story will come out I guess the reader will have to pick up the next series to see what will happen between Sybilla and Alexander.

Along with "The Maiden of Moray"  the reader will get quite a collection of a total eight short entertaining romantic novellas all dealing with 'Forbidden Love.'   Each of the stories are well written with 'their unique style to capture the readers's heart' and will definitely hold ones attention to the very end and will have you wanting to get the next story.  

His Last Resort: A Contemporary Christian Romance (His Last Hope Series Book 1) by M. A. Malcolm

Book Description...

"Driven and focused, business owner and future pastor Robert Marsden knows exactly what he wants… and what he doesn’t. The Do Not Disturb sign he’s placed on his heart is his way of discouraging the ‘wanna-be first ladies’ who’ve set their sights on him. The way he sees it, Claire Foxwood and women like her are more focused on impressing others than on their eternal souls. As a man of God, it’s his duty to set them straight, right?

Claire can’t help her attraction to Robert, but his decision to make a public spectacle of her hurts to the core. Part of her wants to give him a piece of her mind, but the rest of her remains infatuated with the man who’s too attractive for his – and her – own good. If only she didn’t feel like he has a role to play in her destiny!

Can “Aunt Ruby” Crawford’s words of godly wisdom peppered with humor help the misguided pair look deep within themselves and discover God’s plan for their lives? "

Title:  His Last Resort: A Contemporary Christian Romance

Author:  M. A. Malcolm

Publisher:  M.A.M.

Series:  His Last Hope Series Book 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"His Last Resort" by M. A. Malcolm

My conclusion to a beautiful read....

What a wonderful and refreshing 'Christian' read that will keep you turning the pages to the very end!
The story that this author presents to the reader will hold your attention and leave you spiritually stimulated and definitely leave you will a well learned biblical lesson pertaining to God's Word. This author gives the reader a beautiful story about Claire Foxwood and Robert Marsden as they go on a roller coaster ride that will take different paths but in the end  not only finding and understand more about God but each other.

The characters...from Claire,[Chaz..the dog] Robert, Ruby Crawford [Aunt Ruby]her sermons 😂 to Claire were off the chart...so very well done, Emmy Donahue [Aunt Emmy], Mitzie, Nalene to Thea really gives this read such a relatable one that indeed seemed so very real. This story was so well presented to the reader showing how we can find ourselves being so very judgmental and self righteous believing that we know it all as it comes front and center for these two main characters... Claire and Robert. I loved how that was all brought out in the wonderful read definitely answering the question...Why would God choose two people who were so obviously not suited for each other and link them together? Will they be able to see or find a HEA?  The story shows how when one can seem to have it all together on the outside but can be so very insecure on the inside...where only God can fix it.  I loved how Claire sort to learn and develop such a wonderful relationship with God while searching the scriptures especially 'First Peter and First Timothy' and her 'Devotional Journal.'   Turning her shop name from Outside -In  to Inside-Out was beautifully done...as Claire was 'trying to help her clients find that balance between inner and outer beauty.' It was exciting seeing Robert getting a new revelation...'He'd been such a judgmental hypocrite' and I will stop here and say you will have to read the rest for yourself!

I loved how Claire's grandmother explanation about the different gifts that people have...

"Some people have the gift of teaching, some have the gifts of preaching...there's all sorts of gifts.  Your gift, my sweet grand-baby, is to lift people's spirits...You, my sweetheart, make me feel good from the inside out, and you mark my words, honey, that gift is going to make room for you.  It's going to open doors for you that no man can shut."  

From all that is going on in this excellent read will Claire finally figured..." that she was beautiful enough.  That she was strong enough, that she was smart enough that she was enough? "That God loved her because He had created her?  This is where I say you will have to pick up the good novel and see how well this author brings it all out to the reader.  Wow, it is so beautifully done!

In the end the get one delightful, inspiring, Christian read as one sees how this journey will go for Claire and Robert that leads them as they seek Gods' word that will transform and bless them even more to greater heights.

Thank you to the author for such a wonderful good Christian read.
  

Pregnant By My Mother's Rapist By Niki Jilvontae

Book Description....

"Secrets can be deadly, especially when a person's identity is involved, and that is the realty in this twisted tale. Meet Kaniyah aka Na Na the product of a 12-year-old mother and invisible father who finds herself trapped in a hopeless situation. All of her life NaNa was forced to suffer for the sins of others all while trying to figure out who she was. With no dad, a volatile relationship with her mother, and support only coming from her brothers and uncles, NaNa goes out into the world searching for what she never had... True Love. When she meets Anthony she thinks that her prayers have finally been answered but she couldn't have been more wrong. Her quest leads her right down a bumpy road filled with abuse, lies, deceit, and murder that she has no way of escaping. Come on this twisted thrill ride with Na and find out how she became.... PREGNANT BY HER MOTHER'S R*****!"

Title: Pregnant By My Mother's Rapist
Author: Niki Jilvontae
Publisher: True Glory Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Pregnant By My Mother's Rapist" by Niki Jilvontae

My Thoughts...

What a twisted but well written read that I found very hard to read. This author has given the readers a read that was simply very painful for me but knowing that this could happen in the world we live in today. Was this story a page turner? YES, because it was very important to know what would happen next. The characters well I am not sure who I felt more sorrier for...Kaniyah [Na Na] or her poor mother Spicy with both of them needing some help. What had happened with Spicy that she wouldn't tell Na Na who her father was? What will happen when Na Na meets Anthony[aka Kenan]? As you read through this story you will be presented with so many emotions and the drama that seemed to rained down so heavily in this story. Thank God that Na Na had her brothers...Kj, Ky, Kam and her best friend Rah. Well, as the story moves on we see there will be some dark secrets that will come out at last. My, my, my is all I have to say about that. You will have to pick this novel up and read it for yourself how it all comes out. It will be a story that I definitely will not forget any time soon. By the end of the story who will be their to help Na Na? Pick up this story to see!

The Idea Of You By: Amanda Prowse

Book Description...

"With her fortieth birthday approaching, Lucy Carpenter dares to hope that she finally has it all: a wonderful new husband, Jonah, a successful career and the chance of a precious baby of her own. Life couldn’t be more perfect.
But the reality of becoming parents proves much harder than Lucy and Jonah imagined. Jonah’s love and support is unquestioning, but as Lucy struggles with work and her own failing dreams, the strain on their marriage increases. Suddenly it feels like Lucy is close to losing everything…
Heart-wrenching and poignant, this latest work by bestselling author Amanda Prowse asks the question: what does it mean to be a mother in today’s hectic world? And what if it’s asking too much to want it all?"

Title:  The Idea Of You
Author:  Amanda Prowse
Publisher:  Lake Union Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"The Idea Of You" by Amanda Prowse

My View:

A good read that covered 'parenthood and family.'  The author gives the reader quite a story that dealt with Lucy, Jonah[newly married] and Camille who was her step-daughter[coming to live with them].  But for some reason or another Camille took a instant dislike toward Lucy.  Now, why was that?   I found this read very tear grabbing with all that came out of this very intriguing emotional read.  The characters were developed  but also complex and complicated with human needs and wants. The author brings all of this out in such a unique way giving the reader such a heartbreaking read that you could feel as you are drawn into this emotional story. Will this marriage be able to stand against all of the trauma that they were going through especially with Lucy wanted most of all to become a mom?   From the letters from Lucy's POV being full of emotions and then finding out what was the reason for them being presented was so very important and the up and down of feelings were so very important in this read.  How was Lucy's relationship with her mom and sister? Were these insecurities and conflicts normal for Lucy and Camille?   Yes, there  was heartbreak with devastating effects of the ultimate loss, but also there was  'love, hope, courage and family.'  I found that this author delivers to the reader not only the right characters to deliver such a important story but also does a wonderful job at giving the readers the right words that could only help one truly understand just what one goes through at a time like this. What will happen as this family has problems with 'anger, guilt, pain, and past secrets that will come out ['is what they don't have worth risking losing what they do have?']
and threaten all that this marriage as been built on?  This is where I say you will have to pick up this emotional and challenging "The Idea Of You" to see how well this author presents it all out to the reader to see what Lucy gets as the end. This author really works this story so well with covering the subjects:  'miscarriage, [suffered a loss or infertility], teen pregnancy and relationship breakups.'

By the end the reader will gets a 'poignant love story that carries hope, love and forgiveness for all if it can only be accepted' as this love grows ever so stronger as it is given and received so freely.  This is definitely a wonderful story of the ray of hope, happiness and love that needs to be heard every single day!  

Thank you to Netgalley, lake union publishing and Amanda Prowse for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review. This novel was well done by this author!

Always By: Sarah Jio

Book Description....

"From the New York Times bestselling author of Blackberry Winter and The Violets of March comes a gripping, poignant novel about the kind of love that never lets go, and the heart's capacity to remember.

While enjoying a romantic candlelit dinner with her fiance, Ryan, at one of Seattle's chicest restaurants, Kailey Crane can't believe her good fortune: She has a great job as a writer for the Herald and is now engaged to a guy who is perfect in nearly every way. As they leave the restaurant, Kailey spies a thin, bearded homeless man on the sidewalk. She approaches him to offer up her bag of leftovers, and is stunned when their eyes meet, then stricken to her very core: The man is the love of her life, Cade McAllister.

When Kailey met Cade ten years ago, their attraction was immediate and intense everything connected and felt "right." But it all ended suddenly, leaving Kailey devastated. Now the poor soul on the street is a faded version of her former beloved: His weathered and weary face is as handsome as Kailey remembers, but his mind has suffered in the intervening years. Over the next few weeks, Kailey helps Cade begin to piece his life together, something she initially keeps from Ryan. As she revisits her long-ago relationship, Kailey realizes that she must decide exactly what and whom she wants.

Alternating between the past and the present, Always is a beautifully unfolding exploration of a woman faced with an impossible choice, a woman who discovers what she's willing to save and what she will sacrifice for true love."

Title:  Always

Author:  Sarah Jio

Publisher:  Ballantine

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Always" by Sarah Jio

My Thoughts...

What a interesting read that seemed to have blended the past and the present together into one good read about Kailey Crain, Cade McAllister, once the love of her life and now her fiancee, Ryan.
For ten years Cade had been missing but Kailey finds him by giving a meal outside a restaurant to the homeless person only to find out that was Cade who had disappeared.  The story will go back and forth until Kailey decides to look for him and again finds him and with a friend helps get him into a program discovering he had traumatic head injuries.   Now, will this present problems with her fiancee?  There will be a lots of things going on in this story with Kailey that seems like a lots of dishonesty in how she really felt about Cade but did she tell Ryan how she really felt?  Was she really being truthful with Ryan or keeping a secret?   Was Kailey really in love with Ryan...her fiancee or her ex boyfriend...Cade?  Well, to find out all the answers to these and many more questions you will have to pick "Always" and see how it comes out. Be prepared for a good love story with lots of 'twist and turns,  mystery, forgiveness, turmoils, loss, and drug abuse' with a some predictability, but still a good read. This author did a good job at looking at the homeless and mentally ill who many find themselves on the streets.  I will say that ending was a little strange but I know anything can happen as it will for Kailey as 'no one forgets their first love, good or bad' and especially second chance romances.    

A Dozen Truths: 12 Works Of Fiction By:

Book Description...

"The greatest truths are often revealed in fiction, as exemplified by this stunning anthology of stories that reveal the human condition in bracingly truthful ways. The eternal complexities of sibling relationships are revealed in four-time #1 bestselling author Steven Manchester's "Lost." The hope and betrayal that so often underlies love declare themselves in Marcia Gloster's "Losing Will." The reality behind a con man's illusions emerge in Craig Ham's contest-winning "Tonic and Spirits." These are three of the dozen truths that will rise from these pages. Side by side with the work of national bestselling novelists like Mary Marcus and Earl Javorsky, A DOZEN TRUTHS features the three winners of the 2016 Authors First Short Story Contest, providing a bold mix of experienced storytelling and fresh new voices. As entertaining as it is engaging, A DOZEN TRUTHS promises twelve dramatic revelations - and as many powerful reading experiences. CONTRIBUTORS INCLUDE: Eric Andersson Steven Manchester Carmen Siegers Marcia Gloster Craig Ham Lynn Voedisch Mary Marcus Christopher Slater KJ Steele Earl Javorsky Roger Bagg Robert Herzog"

As entertaining as it is engaging, A DOZEN TRUTHS promises twelve dramatic revelations – and as many powerful reading experiences.

Title: A Dozen Truths:  12 Works Of Fiction
Author:  Lou Aronica editor (Author), Aaron Brown (Editor)
Publisher:  Story Plant
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"A Dozen Truths:  12 Works Of Fiction" by Lou Aronica editor (Author), Aaron Brown (Editor)

My Thoughts....

CONTRIBUTORS INCLUDED:

Eric Andersson:  'Join' ...With the character of Kyle and his ruminations on the universality of mortality.

Steven Manchester: 'Lost' was a short story set in the world of his novel, Ashes. Giving the reader to think are we really lost?

Carmen Siegers: 'Ollie'  the cat was missing...and the family had to leave without him.  Would Allie be found? What was going on with the parents...divorcing?  Later as a called came...Ollie had been found and was being brought home.

Marcia Gloster:  'Losing Will' was about "an overconfident and arrogant publisher seduces his loyal and adoring secretary and with little regard for her or the woman he intends to marry, expects to have her at his beck and call."  Was just a secret in his life?  After working for him for 5 years...will this relationship happened?  Well, I will stop here and say this was quite some read!

Craig Ham: 'Sonic and Spirits' a disillusioned medicine peddler with a traveling museum struggles with is own humanity after concocting a plan to make some easy money in a town terrorized by ghosts.'

Lynn Voedich: 'Rune Lore' What happens when Annabritta Hogland becomes pregnant and a visit to her cousin Ragnar Nordie meeting?

Mary Marcus: 'Cut to the Cross'     'nasty mean stories and Stanley is the most awful of them all.'

Christopher Slater: 'Hide-and-Seek'   ...who will win out of this...Pup or Wallace?

KJ Steele:  'Two O'Clock Train' ...Mara and Jimmy...playing and then the unthinkable happens...

Earl Javorsky:  'Howard and Pablo' ....'is a traditional short story that pits the industrialist Howard Hughes against the musician Pablo Casals.'

Roger Bagg: 'Zec' ...What will happen to him?  Will he be saved?
and last...
Robert Herzog:  'Twenty-Seventh Street' ...Twenty-seventh to Fifth was the way to go!

I found these short anthologies were rather enjoyable read giving a sample of each of these 12 fictional writers which included their bio's,  My favorite anthology comes from Lost, which came from the car trip taken by the Prendergast brothers in 'Ashes' by Author Steven Manchester.  Many of these authors I hadn't heard of that will definitely keep the readers attention especially some of those sci-fi, horror and thriller reads.

I felt that 'A Dozen Truths' was definitely a wonderful way at getting to know and meet new authors!

This Too Shall Pass By: Milena Busquest

Book Description.....

"A “literary tsunami” that is taking the world by storm—already sold in over 30 countries—about one unforgettable woman’s search for a meaningful life

Blanca is forty years old and motherless. Shaken by the unexpected death of the most important person in her life, she suddenly realizes that she has no idea what her future will look like.

To ease her dizzying grief and confusion, Blanca turns to her dearest friends, her closest family, and a change of scenery. Leaving Barcelona behind, she returns to Cadaqués on the coast, accompanied by her two sons, two ex-husbands, and two best friends, and makes a plan to meet her married lover for a few stolen moments as well. Surrounded by those she loves most, she spends the summer in an impossibly beautiful place, finding ways to reconnect and understand what it means to truly, happily live on her own terms, just as her mother would have wanted.

A fresh, honest, and ruefully funny story about love, sex, marriage, grief, friendship and parenthood, This Too Shall Pass is an irresistible novel that is fast becoming an international phenomenon."

Title:  This Too Shall Pass

Author:  Milena Busquets

Publisher:  Hogart

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"This Too Shall Pass" by Milena Busquest  

My View:

I found this novel "This Too Shall Pass" one good thought provoking emotional story that kept my attention turning the pages to the end.  Just how Blanca was able to cope with her life after the death of her mother was quite a painful due to the fact that they had been so close. Blanca's father had died when she was a teenager. Now she was a orphan.  How will she handle this loss? Blanca who was forty will have quite a hard time coming to terms with her mom's death. So deciding to visit her childhood home at seashore thinking it will help her grief and that 'volatile life Blanca had with her mom.'  I did found it quite strange but she took her two sons, two ex-husbands, two best friends and her now married lover [Santi] with her on her trip. Oh Santi was already there in this town with his wife and family!  But as I kept reading I think I did understand some of her reasoning... a little. Was this a journey for Blanca of  'self-rediscovery even though it was a dark subject[death]?  Will she be able to find the meaning of life after she came in contact with some old friends....oh yes, there was plenty of  drugs, sex and a lot of alcohol involved.  But will this help her get over her grief with her life seeming to be so turned upside down with this sudden changes in her life?  I liked how this author delivers to the reader as she presents this daughter speaking about her life and journey to her dead mom. I really found myself caught up in the journey of Blanca's 'despair, discovery and life.'

I was able to understand a little from the read as this mother [for I had my mom taken from me at 39] who had died had seemed to let her child...Blanca 'remain a little girl' even though she was forty years old. As I read through this novel I wondered had that happened to me?  Oh well moving on with this story now that her mom was gone was Blanca having trouble growing up?  I will say for all of you that have not experienced a good relationship with your mom you  may not understand this read and it could leave one somewhat depressed. 

As this story continues I find it is narrated by this main character [Blanca] giving off a lots of  'sarcasm and some dark humor.'  I find Blanca 'angry, lost and willing to try anything that would fill the void of the loss' in her life which seems like she finds a lots of comfort in 'bad things' that were not good for her.  

Even though I found the quick short story and somewhat depressing, however, I was able to understand a lots of what Blanca was going through and I found it one well told story, being 'sad but in the end well affirming and oh so hopeful.'  To get all of these questions answered you will have to pick up the novel and see how this author presents it to the readers.  

I think this author did a wonderful job with what she was trying to put out there for the reader to grab hold to about love and loss.  I was lead to think that maybe the only thing that had made Blanca happy was her mom and now she was gone everything else really didn't have any meaning at all. 'Who are we when we lose the one who defines us?'  Oh, well...those are my thoughts...I enjoyed the novel...."This Too Shall Pass."    

In Love With A Menace 2 Society, by Jade Jones (Author), Chase Moore (Author)

Book Description...

A GRIPPING STAND ALONE NOVEL FROM BESTSELLING AUTHOR JADE JONES

"An unexpected turn of events forces Omar's world upside down. Wrongfully convicted of a murder he didn't commit, his entire life changes in the blink of an eye. With all of the odd's stacked against him, he quickly finds himself fighting for his innocence and the love of his life.

Title:  In Love With A Menace 2 Society
Authors:  Jade Jones and Chase Moore
Publisher:  Jade Publications
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"In Love With A Menace 2 Society" by Jade Jones & Chase Moore

My Thoughts....

This was quite some urban fiction that showed how when everything that could go wrong.... does as it did for Omar and then when it seems so very hard got him life can change for the good. Who would have ever thought that one good deed would change ones life so drastically!  What a well thought out plot and such interesting characters that were well portrayed and oh so believable giving the reader in the end one good complete story.  

Devil In Her Bed By Amarie Avant

Book Description...

"Before Lincoln Zager, I was submerged in a happily ever after, until it all came crashing down. The love of my life went missing and has been presumed dead. That's the day I died inside.

Lincoln came along and he was relentlessly determined to revive me. Protect me. Own me. He offered a second chance at forever.

Lincoln had to thaw the numbness surrounding my heart. He fought me ... for me. His sexy, muscular body is blemished with scars. But he taught me that my emotional scars have enhanced my beauty.

No matter how strong Lincoln's love is, another man harbors a dangerous affection for me. I have an obsessed stalker. Like Lincoln, he also claims that he will never let me go..."

Title:  Devil In Her Bed

Author:  Amarie Avant

Publisher:  Jessica Watkins Presents

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Devil In Her Bed" by Amarie Avant

My Thoughts...

Be ready for a very interesting erotic romantic thriller...

From the Stalker...[boogeyman, real crazy man]         Jeffery Peterson aka Donald Dudley

                                       ......the stalked...Siobhan Lewis

who was killed? ....Samuel, Regina & Everett Godwin...funerals and a few more killings totaling...[15], Alton, Glendora Wilson.....now what has happened to Hosea Murrell... Siobhan's ex?  This is really some good reading!

saver of the day... Lincoln Zagar and his friend Bernard

add into this wonderful story more colorful characters...Siobhan's mom[Shania], dad[Deon] and friend from work... Siobhan's Executive assistant...Tamara...Siobhan therapist, Dr, Beck, Detective Ortiz, Maggie, Agent Quigley, Lenard Murrell & Elora Zager

This story taking place in several locations... Northern California, LA...Willow Bluff [hundred miles north of San Francisco], San Antonio, Texas, San Diego, Monterey Beach, Sweden, Fort Brags to name a few. 

As the story moves along we are in Willow Bluff where Siobhan is hiding from the stalker.... she has a home and decides to go for a run and who does she meet up with during the run?  Yes, that Lincoln Zager.

Now this story will take the reader on quite a long journey. Many questions will be asked.... Will Siobhan be willing to put her faith in this hot guy?  What was it about Lincoln that even this stalker felt threatened?  There will be lots of twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages to get more of this wonderfully told story.  Now, I will say I had some problems with the heroine...to me, I felt she didn't think about certain things...like what could be the reason she wasn't able to get in touch with her best friend and her mom?  Didn't she think that there was something wrong with the phones especially after not hearing from her best friend and mom after several weeks?  Oh, well as the story continues..we find out more about that crazy stalker...wow is all I have to say.  You will have to read this story for yourself to see how well this author presents us with such a thriller of a read. 

Will Lincoln be able to find out who the stalker was and how does he handle it with the help of his friend Bernard?  What will happen as Lincoln meets and becomes involved with Siobhan family? What had happened in Lincoln's life that had caused some of his weirdness toward his own family? What was it about Siobhan that kept Lincoln so captivated with her? Moreover, what was it about Hosea [a childhood friend] that Siobhan held so dear to her heart about him?  But was it the same kind of love that Lincoln held in his heart for her?  To find out all of these questions you will have to pick up the novel "Devil In Her Bed" to find out!

As the story moves on.... it seems like this stalker will stop at nothing!  Or will he?  This is a real nut

case!

Now, I definitely don't want to leave out the two...Siobhan and Lincoln...oh yes!  It was definitely right on for this two...after they met after that run.   I loved the music this author-supplied for the readers...Al Greens...' Let's Stay Together''  and all of the hot steamy chemistry they had for each other!  Why couldn't Siobhan believe that Lincoln wanted more than just keeping her safe?  I  know she said that she didn't want him hurt with all that was going on with her ...but really?

OK,  moving on why was Siobhan hesitate in wanting to call the police about what was going on with her after she moved? What had happened earlier to her when a certain police Detective Ortiz was involved with her brother Sammy's death and Hosea disappearance?  It was always interesting seeing these two falls out and then [Siobhan and Lincoln]...you know...getting back together again....oh well!

This stalker..what's he up to now?  As the story goes on the reader really gets to see deep down just how crazy this person really is... messing with Siobhan's drinking waters, her security system, phones, and...well I will stop here and just say you will have to read what all this mad man had done or was planning to do! How will he be caught?  But before he is caught who next will he kill and then he stopped but then started up again due to ***** asking about Siobhan? What had happened to him during his childhood that had greatly affected his mind?   How this person was able to get in and out doing the things he did were simply off the chain...downright scary! This creep seems to be all over the place! Get ready because there will be a lot more happening in the read. I know I have told you lots but there is even more...

And who comes in and saves the day after it is all is said and done?!

Now, it will take a minute for this story to all come together. Then at the end when the reader will be seeking for....well after this author gives the readers one good read but to get there the reader will be presented with two endings.  My favorite one was the first one.  Will we get a HEA?   ...[here is a quote at one of the endings]: that I loved.....

                                                           James 1:2-4

"Consider it pure joy, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.  Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

but you know how this author thinks [very well indeed] giving the reader another surreal ending...so the reader gets to choose which one they will like or really it could have both endings that could have happened in this romantic thriller. I am going to stop now only to say this story is one very well written story by this author.  Will this Peterson creep get what is due to him in the end?  Well, I have said more than enough so to find out all the answers to the questions asked you will have to pick up 'Devil In Her Bed' and see for yourself how this story has been presented.  Be prepared to be blown away with this erotic romantic thriller read...especially with those two endings!  Would I recommend

"Devil In Her Bed?"  YES!

Several things I want to mention is that I really enjoyed how this author brought out several points in the read....one was about Lincoln meeting Siobhan's parents...Shania and Deon Lewis in [San Antonio]...especially the mom being there to help her daughter's thought pattern. I also loved how Lincoln showed how much he really cared for Siobhan.  I liked how the author brought out just who had worked on a  manuscript from the read that was called ....' Devil In Her Bed.' It was quite interesting in the way it was all brought out.  And lastly definitely getting that crazy person...well again you will just have to pick up this novel to see how well it is presented to the reader.  For you will not be disappointed with the novel...."Devil In Her Bed."

Very well done to the author...leaving me to say another good one to you! Thank you for not giving us a part two and three but one completed story!  My heart 💓could not take any more [😉]!

Ok now that this author has given the reader a new ***RERELEASE*** and now includes an alternate ending for your enjoyment.

On September 12, 2019

What did I think about it...well I like the ending with Siobhan and Lincoln.. the other alternate ending was OK but I like the first ending better.  To get a look at the alternative ending please check it out... It will be a good read too!  This author has done a good job of trying to please all of her readers.

Rapture 4 (the finale): A BWWM Alpha Male By: Perri Forrest

Book Description....

"Alika Cambridge is the wife of Rush, mother to an adorable set of twins and stepmother to a beautiful preteen. But she is also someone's daughter. A someone that Alika has absolutely no connection to.

Enter Davina Bianchi. Having abandoned Alika as an infant, Davina has been desperately seeking out the daughter she walked away from. Alika, on the other hand, has no desire to enter a relationship with this woman from her past. In fact, Alika has made it perfectly clear that she already has a family and that she has on room for any more. But Davina is not giving up. She plans to do whatever she can to get just a moment to speak her peace.

Unfortunately, for Davina, she's never met Rush. She doesn't know that Rush does whatever he needs to do to protect his family. This time is no different. Davina better watch out. Especially, when it's revealed that her intentions for Alika, aren't as pure as she's made them out to be.

Get ready for this rollercoaster ride of both highs and lows that will finish out the Rapture series. There will be a few new characters introduced, but this will always be Rush & Alika's story, so expect to see plenty of the couple as they weave through the thick webs that await them."

Title:  Rapture 4 (the finale): A BWWM Alpha Male
Author:  Perri Forrest
Publisher:  Chic Lioness Publications
Series: # 4
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Rapture 4" (the finale): A BWWM Alpha Male By: Perri Forrest

My Final Thoughts of this series!

WONDERFUL, GREAT, SIMPLY AMAZING, DYNAMIC, INTRIGUING, MYSTERIOUS, SUSPENSEFUL, FUNNY, SEXY AND ONE  GREAT HECK OF A  CONCLUSION TO A EXCELLENT SERIES!

Why do I say all of that?

Alika Collins Cambridge  was one strong black woman FINALLY THERE being strong, wise and oh my goodness loving!

Rush Cambridge...well... all I can see he was truly one take charge..ALPHA...definitely a protector!

Now after saying all of that...

This author did a excellent job at bringing it all out for this hero and heroine  in this last series "Rapture 4."  I loved how all of the important questions were answered for me.

How this author brings it all out front and center about Alika was mind simply mind blowing! Now, I can even more understand Alika's background that showing her many 'trial and tribulations that she had gone through. And in the end finding her family! Alika finally gets closure!

The reader gets even more new characters in this last series...Coco[Anikka], Davina with a few others that gives us quite a interesting understanding of this whole story with Alika.

The reader will get one full  circle of a read...now I will say you will have to read the whole series to really understand how well this author delivers and brings it all out to the reader.,,,"Rapture, Rapture 2, Rapture 3 and the finale...Rapture 4."

So, if you are looking for a series with sexy romance, intrigueness with oh my....so many twist and turns you have come to the right place for 'Rapture 4' will give it all to you and more!

Now, I want to end this review by saying this author was new for me and when she sent me her Rapture Series to read and give my honest opinion,  I didn't know what to expect. But I will say after reading the entire Rapture Series .... this was one of the best series I have had the privilege of reading in one setting in a long time.  This series of Rapture 1-4 was simply a wonderful read and reading it one behind each other... all that is left to say is that it was one excellent written series.  I hope to read many more novels by this author.  Thank you Author Perri Forrest for giving the readers such a great Rapture Series read that was truly enjoyed.💓

Rapture 3: A BWWM Alpha Male Romance by Perri Forrest

Book Description....

"A man’s job is never done. It holds especially true when you’re Rush Cambridge.

The story is back and with something of a vengeance. In RAPTURE, new couple Alika and Rush were brought together under severe circumstances. Alika literally crashed into Rush’s life and created a need that he didn’t realize existed until she was there to awaken it.

By RAPTURE 2, the couple had already been faced with the first of many obstacles: Rush’s father was murdered, his mother’s return after years of absence, and the arrival of a daughter that Rush never knew existed.

RAPTURE 3 promises to keep the momentum going. Rush wrote off his sister, Jamie, when he realized that she knew about his daughter. Will they mend their relationship? Or will they remain siblings in name, only? What will happen when tragedy strikes and the traumatic event touches several of the lives that Rush holds dear? And what about Siobhan, Rush’s mother, who was being sought for his father’s murder? Somebody doesn’t want to let it go, and wants to make sure that Siobhan pays for her crime. It’s just too much, isn’t it? Well, it’s happening all while Rush and Alika await the birth of their first child.

We know this couple can overcome just about anything, but will it still hold true in the end?"

Title:  "Rapture 3" A BWWM Alpha Male Romance
Author:  Perri Forrest
Publication:  Chic Lioness Publications
Series:  # 3
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Rapture 3": A BWWM Alpha Male Romance  by Perri Forrest

My Views....

All I can say is I loved this series....the characters are simply off the chart...well developed, portrayed and oh so believable that you will not be able to put this one down until the end...only left wanting more!  The reader will be able to feel all of the emotions from its intriguness, excitement, danger, heartbreak, romance [passionate loving chemistry], as this author delivers to us a mystery, suspense, serial killer, with twist and turns and even the humor in one amazing well told story.  To name a few of the  characters ..from Rush, Alika, Tracie, Jamie, Greg, Jenae, Michaela, Miss Glenda, Siobhan, Carl, Jamie to Quinton to name a few will give the reader one awesome good HEA read.A lot of these characters have their own story giving the reader wow of a read.   This was definitely one of those reads that was truly about the 'family that had it all to deal with from pasted issues, betrayal, forgiveness and the unconditional love that was had for one another.'  All that is left for me to say is that this author really knows how to bring her characters to life where you will only be left wanting more and since there is one more series 'Rapture 4' I am more than sure we are in another wonderful read and learning even more about this family that seems to have quite a blend.  I definitively would recommend this read but also I will say the reader will need to start with 'Rapture,' then move on the 'Rapture 2' and then this one 'Rapture 3' to fully understand how well this story has been put together and delivered so very well to the reader.

 Thank you to the author for giving the readers another good 'Rapture Series' read!

Rapture 2: A BWWM Alpha Male Romance By: Perri Forrest

Book Description...

"When you think of rapture, you think of ecstasy, bliss, elation, and things of that nature. In short, a feeling of intense pleasure or joy. Rush had that. Or rather, Rush has that in the beautiful Alika Collins. Alika brings forth everything he wants in a woman. The two literally crashed into each other’s lives, and their whirlwind love story is safely set on solid ground. But is it really? And if so, for how long? There are certainly things that can disrupt what they have just begun to build.

Recently, Rush was dealt a devastating blow: He has a young daughter who he never knew existed. After this life-shattering secret is exposed, Rush finds out that those close to him are the ones behind it all. Feeling betrayed, he instantly dismisses those individuals from his life. In his mind, their actions were unforgivable and mending fences is not of urgency. At present, his primary goal is finding, and forging a relationship, with his child. Nothing will keep him from doing that.

But while Rush is establishing this new phase of life, things are in disarray in the old life.

For one, someone wants Rush's father dead and will go to great lengths to make it happen. Then there’s the mother of Rush's daughter who wants more than to co-parent. This leaves Alika feeling the strain of it all while trying to remain by his side. Yes, things become chaotic. But, Rush is no stranger to chaos. Hell, he even has a club called Chaos, as a testament to where he's been and what he's made of.

But how much can one person take?

Rapture 2 brings many things to question, but it will be interesting to see how it all turns out in the end. Specifically, which relationships will remain intact, and which ones will be forever altered to the point of no return."

Title:   Rapture 2: A BWWM Alpha Male Romance 

Author: Perri Forrest

Publisher:  Chic Lioness Publication

Series: # 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Rapture 2" A BWWM Alpha Male Romance by Perri Forrest

My Viewpoint:

Hopefully you have read Rapture 1.  The story continues giving the reader another good read from this author as we continue to see what all is in store for Rust as he deals with Alika, his father[Lance], half sister, [Jamie], his daughter [Michaela], and his mom[Gia Olivette...Siobhan]. I will say that this series will have so much going on from...lots of conflict, murder, rape, twist and turns with  a lots of chaos going on in this well written plot.  I liked how the story shows how Alika was able to deal with the baby mama Janea and letting her know she was not the one.

In the end...wow as we get to the beautiful surprise wedding...[quote from Rush...to Alika].....

"You came crashing into my life, baby  And you made it all better,  I was used to going through life and focusing solely on me and building me to where I need to be.  I was on a solo Mission. But you appeared and took my heart hostage and made it so that I could care - in the intimate way-about life, about love, about everything.  I knew what I was looking for in a woman, but I honestly didn't think she existed.  In you, I found the whole package.  Not piece-meal, but the whole  package.  You make me happy.  You make me whole, You make me want to be the better me, and I love you unconditionally."

Wow!  That wedding was simply a beautiful setting.  Now, to know what all has gone on up to this time...yes we get a wedding and you will have to pick up this series to see for yourself how well this author brings it out so well to the readers giving the perfect ending to this HEA story for Rush and Alika.  But will all of Rush's problems finally be over because there is more series...'Rapture 3'  in series # 3!

RAPTURE: A BWWM Alpha Male Romance By: Perri Forrest

Book Description...

"They say that love happens when you least expect it.

Meet the star of this story, Hunter “Rush” Cambridge: Heartthrob, somewhat of a local celebrity, and hugely guarded of those he loves. Rush has never been in love. Lust is more his thing. In fact, he’s all business. The former athlete and current bar owner is solely focused on getting his new mega club up and running. But then Alika Collins comes crashing into his life—literally.

Alika has flown from Las Vegas, to the Bay Area to meet up with someone that she met online. Only when she arrives, things quickly go south and Alika realizes that she has made the biggest mistake of her life. But did she?

Sometimes bad things occur so that better things can replace them…

After Alika manages to escape her situation, she finds refuge in the backseat of Rush’s car. Everything moves quickly from that point as she is insinuated into his world. Although Rush is preparing for the opening of his new club, he is compelled to be a source of help to her, in the process.

But while Rush is helping to sort out pieces of Alika’s life, he’s got a few problems of his own. There are forces conspiring to take down everything that he has worked so hard for, and he’s not having it.

Will Rush emerge unscathed once the truth comes out? Will there be love at the end for him and Alika, or is he just the person who happened to come along when she needed a friend the most?"

Title:  RAPTURE: A BWWM Alpha Male Romance   

Author:  Perri Forrester

Publisher:  Chic Loiness Publications

Series: #1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"RAPTURE" A BWWM Alpha Male Romance by Perri Forrester

My Thoughts....

What a story in that you will keep your attention seeing what is coming next.  As I first started reading I was truly wondering about Alika Collins in all that she had gone through.  Why, was she too naive to know what she should and should not do with online dates?  Even though she had been corresponding with this guy for over a year but never meeting this person and then deciding to just show go meet him ...all by yourself?  Well what could one expect would happen...and it did!   I will say that had me shaking my head for a while but after reading how this story was going I thought I would give it a try and just see how this turns out  for Ms. Alika.  It seems like everything goes too well with Alika after meeting that 'alpha male' Hunter 'Rush' Cambridge.  I was still holding my breathe but as I kept reading it seems like maybe these two Alika and Rush may have something in common .....like great chemistry...definitely mesmerizing!  This was definitely one of those stories that it seems like some of the characters were given second chances...well sort of especially with some of Rush's childhood friends [Bart, Joseph & Gavin].  Be ready for lots of high drama, fast paced read with so many twist and turns that the reader will have to keep up because there will be a lots happening.  When it seems like Rush has everything he wanted and then we get to the end and it get blown up for poor Rush.  What a let down...I was hoping their would be some change with that father [Lance Cambridge]of his but NO and even his half sister[Jamie] too?  Why in the world would they both keep that secret?  Didn't they know that would only come back to bite them in the **** especially after Rush finds out about this!  Oh well, we get a cliffhanger and will have to find out more in this 'Rapture 2' series.   So, continuing on... to 'Rapture 2.'

Everything I Always Wanted: A Friends to Lovers Romance by Stephanie Nicole Norris

Book Description...

"It was a mouthwatering kiss that changed everything…

One thing that held constant in Shelby Donovan’s life was her career. As a world renowned artist, Shelby’s paintings traveled the globe, landing in museums and homes across the nation. But what she couldn’t seem to get under control was her love life. Why? She asked herself that question time and time again. Her mother thought it was because of her best friend, Sebastian Cartwright. They’ve known each other for years. Sebastian and Shelby shared everything; embarrassing moments, secrets, dating tips, affection, and even an explosive kiss during one tipsy night on Shelby’s birthday.

But, when Shelby’s current boyfriend asks for her hand in marriage she should be excited, dancing, ready… but she isn’t. In fact, Shelby can’t stop thinking about the kiss she shared with Sebastian. It had to be a fluke, right? A simple, delicious, fiery kiss that pulled at her loins and caused her heartbeat to slam against her ribcage. Honestly, it rocked her world and thoughts of what could be played like piano keys in her head. But their friendship was too important to mix with the uncertainty of a relationship. Even worse, what if Sebastian didn’t feel the same way? It could ruin everything. Should Shelby accept the marriage proposal, or shed her fears and open up to her best friend? Find out in Everything I Always Wanted."

Title:  Everything I Always Wanted:  A Friends to Lovers Romance

Author:  Stephanie Nicole Norris

Publisher:  S. N.N.

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Everything I Always Wanted:  A Friends to Lovers Romance" by Stephanie Nicole Norris

My Views....

A sweet romance story that features Shelby Donovan and Sebastian Cartwright who had been long time friends since childhood. Now that they were grown will this feeling grow a little deeper for them?  It is a good romance read in how this author brings it all out so well to the readers. I will say that the heroine got on my nerves a little but I stayed in there and by the end I was won over in understanding her thought pattern.  I even think this would make a sweet movie.  Just seeing how these two will seek one or maybe two things about each other gave this story quite a intriguing plot. Not wanting to stop their friendship as to what will happen if each one starts to change their feelings about each other ... as they seemed to be seeing each other in a quite a different way now.  Nor Shelby and Sebastian wanted to lose their friendship that they held so high for each other. No matter what each one thought maybe this would bring problems to their forever friendship they had for each other and / or even a career change in location....what were they going to do about this type of situation that was before them?  Who will finally give in?  And just who or what was 'Excalibur? ' To get the answers to these questions and so much more you will have to pick up this well written novel, "Everything I Always Wanted: A Friends to Lovers Romance" and see how well this author brings it all out to the reader giving us a ending to a good read.   I enjoyed as I got toward the end of the story  how one of these two [Shelby/ Sebastian] will finally confess their love and do something about it.  Will Shelby accept the marriage proposal from Sebastian and will they finally get their HEA?  Pick up this read to find out.  Would I recommend this novel?  YES!

Hush: A Chloe Daniels Mystery (Chloe Daniels Mysteries Book 2) by Deidra D. S. Green

Book Description...

"In Sick, Sicker, Sickest, you met angel of mercy Anna Black. In Anna’s quest to gain favor with her parents and help the less fortunate, she leaves a number of bodies in her wake. Now, Anna Black is on the run, and a new killer has emerged, dropping bodies under overpasses and stealing the spotlight from the now infamous Black. This new killer, affectionately dubbed the baby doll killer, is a complete mystery. Dr. Chloe Daniels and police detective Michael Phillips find themselves behind the eight ball trying to solve these horrendous crimes. Who is this Baby Doll Killer? Will Anna Black be found? Find out in Hush, the second installment in the Chloe Daniels Mysteries."

Title:  Hush:  a Chloe Daniel Mystery
Author:  Deidra D.S. Green
Publisher:  Rathsi Publishing Company
Series:  Chloe Daniels Mysteries Book 2
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Hush: A Chloe Daniels Mystery" by Deidra D. S. Green

My Thoughts....

We finally get an answer to "Sick, Sicker, Sickest" in meeting Ms. Anna Black[Angel of Death] and now we get more of her in "Hush' a mystery, thriller and suspenseful.  However, we get another person who is called 'the baby doll killer.'  The author does a good job with giving the reader quite a interesting read that flows back and forth as we read more about these two people...Anna Black[aka Anna Montgomery] and ....well I will just let you pick up the read and see who the other is.  I liked how this story is presented with the help of Dr. Chloe Daniels[a forensic psychologist], with her assistant Addison and that police detective Michael Phillips that work so well together to bring these two to justice with the two stories coming out of Atlanta and Georgia. This is quite a intriguing as you  read and we see how these two people thought pattern comes to light from what and why they were doing what they did. Definitely off the chart crazy!  Why did the song 'Hush little Baby' and sewing so important in this read of these two sick one?  Well, I will say you will just have to pick up the good read to see for yourself how well this author has thought it all out for the reader to understand both of these situations that are well presented to the reader.  So as we continue we find  Dr. Daniels, Addison and Detective Phillips working on Ms. Anna Black case.   Does she [the Angel of Death] have 'Munchausen  Syndrome with a seconding diagnosis of Munchausen Syndrome'...that 'meets several of the criteria outlined by DSM IV-R for narcissistic personality disorder....with sociopathic tendencies?"  Now what in the world is all that? CRAZY!! Well...the story leaves the reader wanting more... ABOUT THESE TWO SERIAL KILLERS especially now we have Ms. Anna Black is now saying she 'has decided to testify.' REALLY?   Now that will be one testimony I want to hear!  As for this other person that is really gone even more nuttier,  I guess we will have to wait to see what happens in the next 'Chloe Daniels Mysteries.' What will happen as that car ride begins to 'lumber along' the road. Now what could be possibly go wrong as we will see this crazy person's plans  going haywire?  One thing is for sure I feel  sorry for that Wetherby family [the children] when it all comes out especially with them having to be so close with that crazy sick person.  This  author does so at well at what she always does and that is give the reader a well told story and in this case I will be looking for the next series to find out what else these two can possibly get into.  Would I recommend?  YES, however, I would suggest you pick up 'Sick, Sicker, Sickest' to give you a little bit more about Ms.Anna Black.

Obama's Legacy: What He Accomplished as President by Michael I Days

Book Description...

As President Obama's time in the White House draws to a close, this celebratory book documents his transformative accomplishments. 

Evidence indicates President Barack Obama has been tremendously successful and effective by objective measures. On economic indicators alone, he is credited with the longest streak of job growth in U.S. history, a two-thirds reduction in the federal budget deficit, and the rebounding of the stock market to record highs following the record lows of the recession under his predecessor. His victories have come against a backdrop of criticism and sometimes open defiance from conservatives, lack of cooperation in Congress, and racially tinged commentary in traditional and social media. Through it all, the President who campaigned on a slogan of 'Yes, We Can!' has persevered in his determination to make a difference and left an indelible mark on American politics and the world. LEGACY is a commemoration of his eight years in the White House. 

Title:  Obama's Legacy: What He Accomplished as President

Author:  Michael I. Days

Publisher:  Center Street

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Obama's Legacy: What He Accomplished as President"  by Michael I Days 

My Thoughts....

This author brought out to the reader just how wonderful as well as outstanding  this president really was. For many that may not agree...well,  I definitely will say that President Obama was one of our most remarkable presidents.  This author does a good job at giving the reader 'a chronological record' of all of what this president accomplished as he tried to improve the quality of our life during his two terms [2008-2012] as our president.  I loved how we get President Obama's  achievements as it is presented so well in chapters that dealt with laws passed, race, laws passed and even immigration. Now, I will say that this author did a wonderful job at giving the reader some interesting record of this very inspiring President. I will say that during this President's two terms he did try to turn this country around the way he had promised and this author does a good job as he 'lays out the depth of his virtue, character and how each of core beliefs made him stronger' as he pushed this agenda to created create jobs, health care and a lot more to help make our America Great.

By this being our first 'Black President' I agree quite well with this author that President Obama tried to 'surround himself with good advisers, strong people with good moral values that kept him in touch with what he had grew up with and on into his political career.'  I am only left to say that as we live in todays world and many of President Obama contributions and legacy  will  be realized  to be even more important to us that may have been realized especially as time goes on.  Thank you to the author for writing such a interesting novel about President Barack Hussein Obama accomplishments.