Give Me Love: A Thanksgiving Novella, By B. Love

Book Excerpt:

"Gratitude Montgomery, Attorney, and Cherish Williams, Gift basket boutique owner, meet for the first time by crashing into each other – literally. This unexpected meeting changes the events of their lives for the next few days, forcing them to spend that time together. Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and Gratitude hates the holiday and all it stands for. The last thing he wants to deal with is a positive, cheery woman whose disposition only irritates him more. During their time together, Cherish sets out to make Gratitude the meaning of his name.

Will she succeed and change his perception of Thanksgiving, love, and life itself, or will he taint her heart and spirit and drain her of the good within her until they both have nothing left?"

Title:  Give Me Love:  A Thanksgiving Novella

Author:  B. Love

Publisher:  B.L.                   

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Give Me Love" by B. Love

My Rationalization:

I really enjoyed this short story 'Give Me Love' that featured Cherish [Cherry] and Gratitude [Grady].  What was really amusing about these two is that until the accident [fender bender] that they were involved in they both lived in the same area and were from Memphis, TN who had plans of going back home for the holidays and had never met one another.  Well, even though he may not have been a fan of Cherish, in the beginning, bad weather will force them in each other's life once again and once they get to know and share information about each other life, will something come of this?  What will be the big secret the Cherish held from Grady?  However, what will happen as he begins to put it all together from there visit home for the holiday as they were both battling from the same thing [loss]?   Will some feelings will begin for these two as it seems as they both have dreams of returning to there hometown of Memphis?  One thing that was for sure these two definitely clicked together in more ways than one.  Now, to get the answers to all of the questions above you will just have to pick up 'Give Me Love' and see how well this author brings it out so well to the reader.  

I found this story quite a heartwarming holiday novella read with these two finding a wonderful love after a horrible loss and starting to learn how to push on and live the life that was true for them.  This shows that everything happens for a reason whether its new beginnings or directions it will all come together in the end as it did for Cherish and Gratitude because love never disappoints.  

Sweet Intentions: A Christmas Novella by J. Haney & S. I. Hayes

Book Synopsis:

"Absence makes the heart grow fonder unless you're Samuel Benson.

Betrayed by his own brother and the love of his life, Sam has stayed away for ten years until the death of the Benson Patriarch lures him home. Taking care of the Christmas Tree Farm is one thing, but can he face his past and reconcile the choices that were made, or will it all blow up in his face?

Peyton Miller was the girl next door. She’s been in love with the boy on Church Street since she was eight, but circumstance put her in the arms of his brother. Ten years later, Peyton is widowed with two children and a third on the way. Will she ever feel like her old self again? Will she be able to chisel the ice from Sam's heart to find the path to forgiveness? Can she ever forgive herself?"

Title: Sweet Intentions: A Christmas Novella
Author: J. Haney & S. I. Hayes
Publisher: Haney & Hayes
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Sweet Intentions: A Christmas Novella" by J. Haney and S. I. Hayes

My Rationalization:

It was a sweet read about how Samuel Benson finally getting the girl next door Peyton Miller. I will say Sam's brother was quite something in the way he was able to get involved with Peyton but in the end, it doesn't all come out well for him in the end. Ten years later after two deaths [father & brother] and Samuel comes back home will these two Samuel and Peyton be able to forgive each other and move on to an HEA? Well, to find out this and so much more you will have to pick up 'Sweet Intentions' to see how well this author brings it out so well. 

Weekend Fling A Crazy Love Novel by Stacey Lynn

Book Excerpt:

"It’s just supposed to be a weekend fling. . . . “Stacey Lynn always knows how to perfectly balance sexy and sweet.”—New York Times bestselling author Lauren Layne

Fresh out of a long-term relationship, Willow Parks is working two jobs and caring for her mother, whose husband left her with nothing but a pile of bills. That’s why Willow made a vow: no men until she figures out her own life.

But while she may not need a man, she could use a break. And a weekend away at a California beach to clear her head? That’s appealing. Even if the offer comes from Trey Collins, the irresistible tech-mogul millionaire who visits her coffee shop every morning like clockwork—and needs a date for his best friend’s wedding. With an adorable, occasional stutter, he refuses to take no for an answer.

Once the weekend begins, Trey is intent on proving how good they can be together. Willow’s even feeling tempted to break her vow—until reality rudely interrupts her well-deserved getaway. There’s no way she and Trey have a future, not with the colossal amount of baggage Willow has to offer.

But Trey is used to getting what he wants. He just has his work cut out for him convincing her that they want the same thing."

Title:  Weekend Fling 

Author:  Stacey Lynn

Publisher: Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Four 

Review:                                            

"Weekend Fling" by Stacey Lynn

My Rationalization:

I found 'Weekend Fling' a sweet standalone love story about Willow and Trey.  The characters were very well developed that sometimes put a smile on your face from some of there antics.  The two main characters were quite an interesting pair where I really liked Trey but Willow well at times got on my nerves., however, I do realize she had lots of trust issues for a reason.  I liked how this author was able to bring into the story about the suicide issues dealing with Willow's mother.  But all in all, this was a fun, sexy read and in the end, the readers are given a good read.

I received an ARC of this book, from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Beautiful Assassin (Destiny Awaits Book 3) Kindle Edition by Stephanie Nicole Norris

Book Excerpt:

"As the reigning queen of a crime organization, hit-woman Celine Devereaux has a constant target on her back. Ruling alongside the boss is what she is made for. But when a new enemy arises, it catches the Devereaux organization off guard, triggering a war that erupts in the streets of Chicago.

With a battle raging, Celine and Brian fight with the strength not only of their army, but their love for one another to make it through unscathed. That same love drives the force of their determination to win… and winning is the only option if they want to survive."

Title:  Beautiful Assassin

Author:  Stephanie Nicole Norris

Publisher:  Love Is A Drug Ink

Series:  Destiny Awaits Book 3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:  

"Beautiful Assassin" By Stephanie Nicole Norris

My Rationalization:  

I enjoyed the ending of this series in Destiny Awaits in book 3 being such a suspenseful thriller.  This story was definitely an emotional, dramatic, action-packed, and less not leave out sexy read that brings out the characters from Celine, Brian, Marcus, and a few others to give the reader quite a story.  One could see why Celine was called Queen B because she ruled.  When you are able to see so many twists and turns along with lots of betrayals from this story you know you are going to be given quite a read.  You will have to keep up because lots will be going on, so keeping up is very important.  Oh, I would highly recommend you read the first two installments to this series so that you will have a better understanding of what all has gone on previously.  I did love seeing the love that Cline and Brian had and most of all surviving in the Devereaux organization. I did feel somewhat sorry for Marcus but it looks like he may have someone too.     

O'shay & Sanaa 2: Suspense Thriller Kindle Edition by J. Brinkley

Book Excerpt:

"In Book Two…
What Happens when Loves goes wrong?
This couple finds out the hard way when someone cracks and ruins their lives.
After Sanaa was shot and left for dead, O’ shay is frantic and lost while Sanaa is in a coma."

Title: O'shay & Sanaa

Author: J. Brinkley
Publisher: J. B.
Series: Part two
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"O'shay & Sanaa" by J. Brinley

My Rationalization:

This was one read that really had me shaking my head. It was sad in the way this story turns out for O'shay but when you think about it what other way could it turn out seeing he felt no guilt in what he had done to his wife Sanaa. I felt so sorry for O'shay's mother as she had warned him about karma. What was even worse was that O'shay had the nerve to want to be involved with another person in his already horrible life. I was so glad that was shut down quickly. I will say you will have to read part one of this novel to get all from what had gone on earlier between O'shay and Sanaa. And with this part 2 end, the reader will be in for quite an unforgettable read. 

Unfailing Love Kindle Edition by J. Brinkley & Lenare Gasoline

Book Excerpt:

"Unfailing Love is a street romance about Peter Hart whom everyone calls "Petey". Petey gets caught between his love for the streets, love for his family and love for his ultimate weakness Butta. Petey soon realizes that the only love that succeeds in life is the love that never fails. Many never know what lies in the mind of a hustler who has to be a family man, a boss, and a cold-hearted ma' fucker at times. That can be hard to comprehend and those who can't comprehend it like Petey's long-time girlfriend Rika end committing malicious actions. Petey has to deal with all this while protecting, caring for and even punishing those he loves the most."

Title:  Unfailing Love
Authors:  J. Brinkley & Lenare Gasoline
Publisher:  J. B. & L.G. 
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"Unfailing Love" by J. Brinkley & Lenare Gasoline

My Rationalization:  

What I did get out of this story was how hard it was for this character, Peter Hart [Petey] who 'gets caught between his love for the streets, love for his family and also love for a weakness who was Butta.' 

This was definitely one of those reads that give the reader what all went on the life of this hustler, Petey.  Petey was definitely good to his friends and to his baby's mom but I didn't understand why he felt he needed more companionship in picking up Butta.  As you follow the story one can tell that will not come to a pretty ending when everything comes out.  All in all, there were secrets all over the place from his friends, baby's mom and Butta that probably will come to light in the end.  I will say that most of these characters were really something else giving the reader quite a story.  

By the time I did get to the end I wasn't sure just who was with whom because it seemed like the story was all over the place. I was left wondering would there be part two to this story to answer many unanswered questions?  Oh well, this was one story of what can go on in a hustler's life when one is trying to hold it all down and is involved not only with street life, baby's mom but also a girlfriend.  

  

From the Outside In: A True Crime Story Kindle Edition by Deidra D. S. Green

Book Excerpt:

"A five-year-old little girl is brutally murdered by her mother’s boyfriend. His true identity is questioned and questionable from the very beginning. Her mother, a social worker, is found culpable but is not the primary killer. The people responsible for her protection have ultimately failed the little girl… and not just once. The story makes national headlines and is covered on every major news station in the local area. The media doesn't have the whole story, but someone else does. She is looking, “From the Outside In.” (Re-edited)"

Title: From the Outside In
Author: Deidra D. S. Green
Publisher: Rathsi Publishing Company; 1 edition
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"From the Outside In A True Crime Story" by Deidra D. S. Green

My Rationalization:

Wow-what a read this one was that will definitely tear at your heart. Yes, this novel was a sad story of what happened to little Bridgette [child abuse, death] at the hands of her mother's boyfriend. What got next to me was that this mother supposelingly loved her daughter but was it really?

All that is left to say is I know things like this have happened to many of the little Bridgette's, [maybe not there name] but to just know it has and will probably continue to happen in the world we live in today. This was definitely one of those novels that were 'vivid emotional, riveting and moving' that will keep your attention as you will turn the pages to the end and one will be taken in by this story of "From the Outside In." Oh, by the way, this story by this author was a 'gut-wrenching true story..' Now think about that when you are reading this one. And this only leaves me to think how many times have we read stories like this one and it seems like the parent gets away with it? 

Happiness in Jersey (The Prototype Book 1) Kindle Edition by Jacinta Howard

Book Excerpt:

"The only thing in Jersey Kincaid’s world that she has time for is keeping her grades up so that she doesn’t lose her scholarship to South Texas University, playing the bass in her band, The Prototype, and satisfying her coffee addiction. Oh, and the occasional random hook-up she indulges in to pass the time. 

Love? Eh, not so much. Save that crap for a Katherine Heigl or Natalie Portman movie.

Jersey’s seen enough in life (courtesy of her Pops) to realize that undying romance is nothing more than a myth used to sell books and movie tickets. As she knows too well, the only thing inevitable in life is death— love is definitely not promised.

That’s why when Jersey meets Isaiah “Zay” Broussard with his soulful gray eyes, quick wit, and easy charm, she’s determined to remain aloof. She doesn't have time to get sidetracked by fleeting fantasies, even if she does feel an unexplainable connection to Zay she’s never experienced before.

But when his interest in her only seems to intensify, despite her attempts to brush him off, she gets to see a side of him and herself she didn’t expect…"

Title: Happiness in Jersey
Author: Jacinta Howard
Publisher: J.H.
Series: The Prototype Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Happiness in Jersey" by Jacinta Howard

My Rationalization:

I enjoyed 'Happiness in Jersey' story that featured Jersey Kincaid and Zay Broussard even though I felt that the read started off a little slow, however, it did pick up. I found most of the characters likable from Jersey who was in the band with her band friends: Devin, Travis, Bam and lastly Zay who just happened to be Travis's cousin. Also, I don't want to leave our Jersey's friend Willow. This story was deep and profound in that we see that poor Jersey hadn't had a great life after the death of her mom [suicide] and living with her father who drank hadn't been great either. We find that Zay had also experienced some tragic in his life losing his sister and brother in an accident.

Meeting Zay was definitely one great thing to happen to Jersey [Kitten, Baby Doll] as Jay referred to her. I will say it took some time for these two to come together but with Zay's patience, he was truly there for Jersey in all she was going through. I loved how Zay was there to fight for Jersey's love.

At times Jersey got on my last nerve being so trying, but when it all came down she finally learns just whom she can trust and love realizing just who was there for her through the thick and thin in all that was going her with her life especially when it related to her father. I will say it was hard seeing the way her father treated her.

If you are looking for a good love story with a little bit of it from 'pain, loss, moving on, not letting ones past define you, effect of some good music and then by the end realizing that love is worth the risk' then you should pick up "Happiness in Jersey" to see how well this author brings it all out to the reader. 

Can’t Get Enough of His Boss Love Kindle Edition by Ni'Andra Nicole

Book Excerpt:

"Falling head over heels in love with a boss left Kalila Tate-Canale in tears as she packed her bags and walked away from what she thought was a whirlwind fairytale love. What started off as love and trust turned sour at the hands of those closest to them.

Looking to move on and start anew, the damsel in distress starts to plan her life without the infamous Mafia boss, Giuseppe Canale. However, all that changes when Kalila gets the shock of a lifetime.

Giuseppe Canale had managed to meet and marry the woman of his dreams. But all that changed when he came home one day, only to find her gone without so much as a goodbye. Panic-stricken and full of rage, he takes to the streets to find her.

Without so much as a trace left of her, Giuseppe refuses to give up until he found the one woman that owned his heart and rocked his last name. But years go by, and the search grows cold. Falling ill once again, Giuseppe is forced to start getting his affairs in order.

Desperate to make things right with her daughter and estranged husband, Kalila packs their bags and heads back to Miami, where it all began. Yet, things aren’t what they seem when they get there. Walking into the lion’s den, Kalila will be forced to make a decision between her past, present, and future. Unwilling to let his one true love go, Giuseppe, despite his current situation, takes matters into his own hands."

Title:  Can't Get Enough of His Boss Love

Author:  Ni'Andra Nicole

Publisher:  Talehia Presents LLC            

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Can't Get Enough of His Boss Love" by Ni'Andra Nicole

My Rationalization:  

I really enjoyed this story.  I liked how this author was able to give the reader quite a good read of the love Giuseppe's had for Khalida.   Now, these two will have to go through a lot of trials and tribulations to get there but in the end, they were finally able to overcome it all that had been presented to them. I was so glad to see that Giuseppe was able to finally, see was trouble his parents had caused his wife and how he dealt with that issue
and finally see that Khalida was finally able to open up her eyes about an ex.        

She's Got Soul (Soulmates Book 1) Kindle Edition by Aja

Book Excerpt:

"Soul mate
/ˈsōl ˌmāt/
noun
a person ideally suited to another as a close friend or romantic partner.

Zola Lewis is many things to many people. She’s a marketing extraordinaire by day, and a podcast host by night. She’s also a devoted daughter, a funny and caregiving auntie to her sister’s daughter. But, the one thing she is not is a wife to a loving husband and she’s beginning to think that could never happen because she’s entirely too opinionated for most men. One night on her live podcast, she experienced a challenging caller who seemed to aggravate her more than a little, and Zola wondered who was more opinionated. Zola or the caller?

Khalil Berry was a bit of a nerd growing up, and as a result, also a bit of a late bloomer. Time not spent with girls allowed him to stick with books. His big brain landed him many opportunities and by his mid-twenties, he’d amassed a fortune from his software apps. The latest app he’s developing requires more hands-on research and he decides to do the research himself. First stop, listening to a podcast by a woman talking about women; a topic he was beginning to learn more about since his money seems attracts them all the time. The task was simple, listen and take notes. But, her voice is too melodic and her words, well, let’s just say she didn’t know what she was talking about as far as he was concerned. So he calls in to correct her.

They’re both great at giving a piece of their mind, but can they hand over their well-guarded hearts?

Title:  She's Got Soul

Author:   Aja 

Publisher:  She Loves Words Publishing 

Series:  Soulmates Book 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Four

Review:

"She's Got Soul" by Aja

My Rationalization:

What an entertaining read this romantic story was that featured Zora and Khalil.  I liked how well this author brought these two together with their various businesses where they often agreed along with disagreeing at times which brought on some 'funny, witty, intellectual, conflict, sexy romance, and insightful times.' You will see from the read that these two were definitely 'Soulmates.'  By the end, the reader gets a sweet story with some well-developed characters that give us a good story.

Dreeco and Deja: A Standalone Novel Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

Book Excerpt:

"A fast-paced, jaw-dropping new romance from Jade Jones, author of the epic bestselling Cameron series!

Stuck in the hometown she’s lived in all her life, Deja’s ambitions were bound to end up as unfulfilled dreams. Growing up with strict but loving parents, Deja is a good girl through and through, but her sheltered life makes her hesitate to leave everything she knows behind and go out into the world. But with the encouragement of her best friend, she finally takes the plunge and moves to DC to follow a new career path which she hopes will bring her the success she craves.

However, things don’t always go exactly as planned, and when she meets a bad boy by the name of Dreeco – a member of an ill-famed motorcycle club – Deja falls for him. He’s slick, dangerous, and unlike anybody, a small-town girl like Deja would have ever dated, but also far more trouble than she can deal with.

Finding herself tangled up in a torrid affair with a bad boy, it seems that the dreams she left home to pursue are forgotten – that is unless Deja comes up with a whole new dream for herself."

Title:  Dreeco and Deja

Author:  Jade Jones

Publisher:  Jaded Publications 

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Dreeco and Deja" by Jade Jones

My Rationalization:

What a good intriguing story that was that featured Deja and Dreeco.  It was definite that these two were for each other.  But it really something when all around you is crazy that even brings out even more craziness as this story continues with there being so many secrets that the reader could see that karma would catch up with them sooner or later. All that is left to say is be aware of your friends because with friends like Deja and Dreeco had who needs enemies.  Well, in the end, all that can be said is that at least this was a perfect love story in that Deja and Dreeco loved each other deeply.  

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Ridin’ For A VA Hitta 2 Kindle Edition by Racquel Williams

Book Excerpt:

"The drama continues in this explosive finale…

Akila Jones thought it was best to walk away from the life she has known for years and the man of her dreams. Unbeknownst to her, evil was lurking around and ready to snatch her freedom up. This young woman will be faced with the toughest battle of her life. With her life turned upside down and no one to turn to, she will run back into the arms of the man that she was trying desperately to get away from. Is she willing to give love one last try, even if it means getting in bed with the devil?

After losing his brother, Mari vows to get the people that are responsible for his death. No one is safe, and this young killer is in savage mode. He becomes oblivious that money can’t buy loyalty, and if you don’t feed your dogs, they’ll soon start eating off your plate. It was only a matter of time before death came knocking on his door, and karma paid him a visit.

Akila and Mari are in a fight for their lives. Will they fold under pressure, or will the bond they shared be enough to help them escape death?"

Title:  Ridin' for A VA Hitta 2

Author:  Racquel Williams

Publisher:  Leo Sullivan Presents                 

Series  #2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Ridin' For A VA Hitta 2" by Racquel Williams

My Rationalization:  

What a suspenseful read where betrayals, drama, murder, jealousy were all over the place where the reader will never cease to be amazed by all that goes on in this series.  I guess there is nothing like having a crazy ex-boyfriend and a jealous cousin as it was for Akila.  I will say by the end of this story, it may have been quite a bittersweet read but yes passion was there for this heroine in the end. I found the characters over the top some more than others! This was really one interesting read in how this story ended.  

Healing Words. Healing Hearts. Kindle Edition by Elisabeth

Book Excerpt:

"Healing...
That’s what needs to happen here.
For her, for me and for us.
Neema is my everything, and what I did, I would never forget.
What’s done is done.
I didn’t change it then, and I wouldn’t change it now.
But everything had consequences, missing puzzle pieces that randomly turn up, and enemies to answer to.
Unfortunately, I won’t let her go this time.
I’m determined to be here.
We’re healing. That’s the point."

Title:  Healing Words.  Healing Hearts.

Author:  Elisabeth

Publisher:   Imperial Publishing House 

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five 

Review:

"Healing Words.  Healing Hearts." by Elisabeth

My Rationalization:  

I will say that I enjoyed the conclusion of this story that featured Drago and Neema.  I would definitely suggest if you haven't read the first part of the story:  Broken Words. Broken Hearts, please do so because this read is the continuance of it.  I loved how well this author really brings the story up to date from a previous journey and their heartbreak to now where it seems like things may be able to be fixed.  It was interested in how well Drago was able with all going on to take care of not only his family but Neemea's too even though it was sad at the time of their break up.  And in the end, we have a well-written story and this is where I say you must pick up 'Healing Words. Healing Hearts.' to find out how it all comes out.  I liked how this title told the story.