Ties That Tether by Jane Igharo

Book Excerpt:

"

When a Nigerian woman falls for a man she knows will break her mother’s heart, she must choose between love and her family.

At twelve years old, Azere promised her dying father she would marry a Nigerian man and preserve her culture, even after immigrating to Canada. Her mother has been vigilant about helping—well forcing—her to stay within the Nigerian dating pool ever since. But when another match-made-by-mom goes wrong, Azere ends up at a bar, enjoying the company and later sharing the bed of Rafael Castellano, a man who is tall, handsome, and…white.

When their one-night stand unexpectedly evolves into something serious, Azere is caught between her feelings for Rafael and the compulsive need to please her mother. Soon, Azere can't help wondering if loving Rafael makes her any less of a Nigerian. Can she be with him without compromising her identity? The answer will either cause Azere to be audacious and fight for her happiness or continue as the compliant daughter."

Title: Ties That Tether
Author: Jane Igharo
Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"Ties That Tether" by Jane Igharo

My Speculation:

"Ties That Tether" was quite a unique read of how a 'cultural deep-rooted expectations' can control a person's life choices as it was for Azere. It was enjoyable to see how this author gave the reader the internal and external battles that many interracial couples face in not being able to go against the grain of it all as it was in this story. I did learn a lot from the information about this Nigerian culture. I will say that Azere and her micromanaging mother got on my last nerve, especially with Azere not speaking up for herself. Be ready for a roller coaster of emotions all over the place. I was indeed happy when Azere was finally able to find her voice and go after what she wanted.

So, will Azere be willing to honor the promise she made to her late father to marry a Nigerian man? This is where I say you will have to pick up this read and see how well this author brings it out to the reader. Be ready for an enjoyable multi-cultural romance read that captures 'culture, love, family, promises to a HEA.'

Thank you to NetGalley and the author/publisher for providing me with a free advanced copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.

 

Allure by Aja

 Book Excerpt:

"All the glitz and glam in the world can't hide the sadness in Mia Foster's world. She may have a tough exterior, but inside she's been lonely, and that chip on her shoulder is threatening to topple her and everything she worked hard for over. But when Malik Dewberry brings her a package, the two connect, and she finds he can deliver more than just parcels. His type of love can put an end to drought & famine ... and Mia has been parched for a very long time.

The Sweet Spot Shorts are all about quick, hot, romance that knocks each couple off their feet because love & desire must have their way."

Note: There's nasty sex, profanity, and explicit language used in Allure.

Title: Allure
Author: Aja
Publisher: She Loves Words Publishing LLC
Series: Sweet Spot Shorts Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Allure" by Aja

My Speculation:

Allure was a sweet short story of how Mia and Malik meet as he was the delivery man that service her job with his deliveries. As we see from the read, Mia is a workaholic, and Malike was his own 'man's man.' How will these two be able to work this relation out? I liked how Malik seemed to help Mia understand her plans and get to them and not be overloaded. I will say this was one hot explosive read that will put a smile on your face as these two falls in love with one another.

Boss'd Up With A Billionaire 2 Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 Book Excerpt:

THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SEQUEL HAS FINALLY ARRIVED!

"Yvonne, Noble, Sami, Abner, and Chaos are back for the riveting second installment of this fast-paced and action-filled series!

Noble has the world on his shoulders. He fell for a great woman who has the biggest skeleton in her closet. Will he realize she's an FBI agent before it's too late? Or will his lack of judgment cause him to be indicted on federal charges?

Instead of thinking with her head, Sami has always been led by her heart. But the trouble she finds herself in because of this might just cost her her life. Prepare yourself for yet another wild, messy ride! Secrets will be exposed. Friends will be betrayed. And by the end of this book, you will be left shocked and confounded."

Title: Boss'd Up With A Billionaire 2 by Jade Jones
Author: Jade Jones
Publisher: Jade Publications
Series: Part 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Boss'd Up With A Billionaire 2" by Jade Jones

My Speculation:

All that is left to say is wow, because there is so much going on in this read that you will have to keep up. From all of the characters from Chauncey, Chaos, Dimitri, Tesha, Abner, Yvonne, Sami, Zariah, Noble, Terror, Darit, and I am sure I have left someone out, this story is something else. Who can trust who? Who wants revenge? I am not sure if I felt sorry for any one of these characters, maybe the little one Nate. There are lots of questions that need to be answered, so I see there will be a part 3; maybe we will be able to get a better understanding of all that has proceeded and who has done what to whom. When it all comes out, hopefully, it will make sense to the reader, especially those who will come out of this episode alive.

An Ivy Hill Christmas A Tales from Ivy Hill Novella by Julie Klassen

 Book Excerpt:

"Richard Brockwell, the younger son of Ivy Hill's most prominent family, hasn't been home for Christmas in years. He prefers to live in the London townhouse, far away from Brockwell Court, the old family secret that haunts him, and the shadows of his past mistakes. But then his mother threatens to stop funding his carefree life--unless he comes home for Christmas. Out of options, he sets out for Ivy Hill, planning to be back on a coach bound for London and his unencumbered bachelor life as soon as the festivities are over.

But Christmas in the country presents unforeseen surprises, including encounters with an orphaned apprentice, the first love he disappointed years ago, and Arabella Awdry, a young lady who is far more appealing than he recalled . . . and determined to have nothing to do with him.

Will Christmastime in Ivy Hill, with its village charm, kissing boughs, joyous songs, and divine hope, work its magic in his heart . . . and hers as well?"

Title: An Ivy Hill Christmas
Author: Julie Klassen
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"An Ivy Hill Christmas" by Julie Klassen

My Speculation:

I enjoyed this Ivy Hill Christian Christmas story that brought it's 'warmth, cheer, and heartful moments' that gave the readers a good holiday read. We find the main character Richard Brockwell was somewhat upset because he has been made to come home for Christmas by his mother's request. What was up with Richard not wanting to go home, and what will he find when he gets there? I enjoyed how this author gave us a story of 'Christmas spirit with compassion' that will shake up the information. It was quite interesting seeing Richard transform.

I love how this young boy [orphan] and dapper dog, Wally was brought so well into the story along with the 'Regency Christmas tidings, joy.' Be ready for a sweet 'level of not only second chances, but forgiveness, service to the community, comforting, transformation, romance, the spiritual element with its uplighting message of Christmas magic that impacted this story in so many exciting ways.

The author's story will keep your attention as you are turning the pages to see what was coming next in some laugh-out-loud banter of this family, along with giving us a good ending.

At the end of this read, the book will include a recipe for "Honeycroft Honey-Spice Biscuit [Cookies]' that looked interesting to make and eat.

I received a complimentary book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.

Secrets of a Kept Woman 3 Kindle Edition by Shani Greene-Dowdell

 Book Excerpt:

"Baggage. Every woman has it, but Rhonda Jackson is carrying around so much that her back is about to break. Kicked out and abandoned by her mother at sixteen, Rhonda Wilson didn’t get the blueprint on how to love. Instead, she's been pulling a freight train of internal turmoil around and dumping pieces of it on the people who love her the most.

After coveting Shayla's first and second husband, she finds herself battling to stay out of jail. Fortunate for her, Jameson Brown has had a crush on her since they were children, and he’s a partner at Brown and Associates Law Firm. He agrees to take Rhonda's case, but under one condition. She must make true amends for all the hell she's raised. Coming from a world of love, privilege, and religion, Jameson was groomed to go after what he wants. And he wants Rhonda, but not before she learns the true meaning of love.

Will she finally face her demons and discover self-love?"

New Cover. New Edits. Same Great Story.

Title: Secrets of a Kept Woman 3
Author: Shani Greene-Dowdell
Publisher: Imperial Publishing House; 2nd Edition
Series: Part 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Secrets of a Kept Woman 3" by Shani Greene-Dowdell

My Speculation:

"Secrets of a Kept Woman 3" had me shaking my head through the story. It just seems like Ms. Rhonda could get away with all the mess and shenanigans that come before her. I couldn't believe that Jameson could fall so in love with her. I know he had liked her during his childhood, but to drop Lessia as Jameson did was awful. I guess we will have to get the next series, which I believe is the finale, to see what is coming next. Ms. Rhonda, a free woman until something happens at her mental health facility, that is 'so damaging that even her good luck won't be able to save her.'

Secrets of a Kept Woman 2 Kindle Edition by Shani Greene-Dowdell

 Book Excerpt:

"After walking away from her marriage, Shayla now has a son, a budding career as a psychiatrist, and a home in Georgia. Everything she thought her first marriage should be, she's getting and more from Antonio Davis. Life couldn't be better until someone from her past books an appointment for a counseling session.

Rhonda moved to Atlanta with Shayla in her crosshairs. She knows Shayla's kind heart will open up and accept her back in once she gives her some tragic news. To make sure her plan of reentering Shayla's life works, Rhonda has enlisted a key player. Will she have Shayla's best interest at heart this time around, or will the instinct destroy everything in her path win again?

The goodwill to step in and help an old friend could land Shayla a chair on the other side of her own psychiatry desk in another entertaining, jaw-dropping tale of abandonment, disloyalty, and obsession."

This is the second edition of Secrets of a Kept Woman 2, which has been edited and revised with 13,000 words of new content added.

Title:  Secrets of a Kept Woman 2

Author:  Shani Greene-Dowdell

Publisher:  Imperial Publishing House; 2nd edition 

Series:  Part 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Secrets of a Kept Woman 2" by Shani Greene-Dowdell

My Speculation:

All that is left to say of this story was karma was coming for Rhonda.  I couldn't for the life of me know why Shala would let her back into her life, but we found out soon what Rhonda and James were up to...no good.  It will be engaging in the next part to see how this will all come out for Shayla and Antonio, and oh yes, Ms. Rhonda!

This is my second time reading this novel after it has been edited and revised.

CANDID FOR YOU: A BLISS WAY SHORT STORY BOOK 2 Kindle Edition by AMBER G.

 Book Excerpt:

"Say cheese. Kids are so candid when it comes to love. Levi tries his hand at matchmaking. Find out if his dad Ron finds love on Bliss Way."

Title: Candid For You
Author: Amber G.
Publisher: Hustle & Write Publishing; 1st Edition
Series: A Bliss Way Short Story Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Candid For You" by Amber G.

My Speculation:

I loved this sweet short story of how a son tries to get his father involved with his teacher Ms. Taylor starting with a photo and then with Levi getting into trouble at school. What was up with that situation? I loved how this little one's mind can present a plan, and hopefully, it seems to have worked out for his father, Ron, Levi, and even Ms. Taylor. By the end, it looks like everyone was happy with the outcome.

After The Kiss by Stephanie Nicole Norris

 Book Excerpt:

"When a silent birthday wish sparks a night of insatiable desire, Erica wonders what will become of her relationship with her best friend, after the kiss."

Title: After The Kiss
Author: Stephanie Nicole Norris
Publisher: Love Is A Drug Ink LLC
Series: Lunch Break Series Book 6
Reviewed By: Arlena dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"After The Kiss" by Stephanie Nicole Norris

My Speculation:

I loved this Lunch Break Story that involved Isaac and Erica. Can you imagine loving someone as long as they did [20 years] before they decided to come clean with each of how they felt? Friends to lovers make some of the best romantic stories as I found this story did for me. It was so sweet seeing them getting there HEA.

Tareef (The Brothers Ali Book 4) Kindle Edition by Celeste Granger

 Book Excerpt:

"Naomi Singleton is a woman on a mission. As the Public Relations Director for the Barber Experience and starting her own public relations firm, Naomi has her hands full. But there’s something else that consumes Naomi, her desire for a man, Tareef Ali, who doesn’t seem to return her affections.

Tareef’s cold shoulder makes Naomi wonder if finding love is a thing out of her reach until another man is more than willing to fulfill Naomi’s romantic desires, Attorney Malcolm Bridges.
As Director of Legal Affairs for Ali International, Tareef dispenses the law with expertise and vigor. His billionaire status doesn’t keep him from working for the people. When a wrongful conviction case pits Tareef against his nemesis, in a court battle, he soon finds it’s not the only fight on his hands. It’s the battle for Naomi’s heart."

This is a standalone that ends in a HEA.

  Title: Tareef

Author: Celeste Granger
Publisher: C.G.
Series: The Brother Ali Book 4
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Tareef" by Celeste Granger

My Speculation:

I loved this story that was about Tareef and Naomi. It looked like Attorney Malcolm Bridges was sliding into Naomi's life, but things changed when she found out his real feeling about mental illness, mostly since Naomi's mom was bi-polar. I loved how that twist turns the story somewhat, and Tareef was able to work his magic and show Naomi how much he cared for her. I loved how Naomi's friend Rocky was able to help her understand the expectations of the Ali men in that they were alphas. The best part of the story was to see these two. .. Tareef and Naomi get to there HEA.

Dreams Under Construction: Mergers & Acquisitions 3 Kindle Edition by Amber G

 

Book Excerpt:

"Chance Forelove is elated. Her husband True turned his player card in for marriage.

But the night of Trinity’s reality show changes everything for Chance when the discovery of a baby throws the slice of marital bliss into a tailspin.
Turns out Solace Black, the baby’s mother, and True, have unfinished business.
Chance must decide to fight or throw in the towel when she questions whether she married the wrong man.
With Solace in the throes and William Chance’s best friend waiting in the wings, True and Chance’s marriage is at stake. Find out if True renews his player card."

Title: Dreams Under Construction
Author: Amber G
Publisher: Hustle & Write Publishing
Series: Mergers & Acquisitions 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"Dreams Under Construction" by Amber G

My Speculation:

I enjoyed the rest of this series, where we see Chance and True are now married. However, there will be another twist that Solace Black will bring into this mix. There was something about True that I didn't care for, and when everything comes out, I realized what it was, and it had to do with trust. True had a wonderful wife, but he didn't know how to treat her when all of this mess came out. Again, we see how karma came for Solace, and it was just luck that Chance loved True. I felt somewhat sorry for William because I thought he was a better match, but it didn't work out like that. By the end of the story, I guess everyone got what they deserved.

Game Faces On: Mergers & Acquisitions 2 Kindle Edition by Amber G.

Book Excerpt:

" All he could think of was her…

William King couldn’t get his business partner’s image out of his mind. After merging companies with Wright Enterprises, the late-night schedules and work got the best of him. Not one to cross the line, William wonders if True has really changed and deserves a woman like Chance. All she desired was at her grasp… Career, life, and love were finally balancing out for Chance. Landing the contract with Urban Development and becoming engaged to True, Chance is finally living out her dreams. Will there be fire, burning through the black lace? Or will it be happily ever after for Chance and True? Passionate and full of surprising twist and turns this riveting story will keep you turning the pages."

Title: Game Faces On
Author: Amber G.
Publisher: A.G.
Series: Mergers& Acquisitions 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Game Faces On" by Amber G.

My Speculation:
I enjoyed how this author could bring these two stories together with Chance and True's issues. I felt sorry for William because, honestly, I thought he was the best man for Chance, but oh well, I did like he honored his friend True. All that is left to say is I hope True will be faithful to his marriage vows. It was simply amazing how the story turned out, but I still had my doubts about a particular person. I guess we will find out more in the next series: Mergers & Acquisitions 3. I do hope William will find someone to love.

Mergers & Acquisitions Kindle Edition by Amber G.

Book Excerpt:

"Confident in a pair of heels but competitive in a hardhat Chance always knew she had the intelligence and business savvy to make it in a male-dominated business. Armed with her own construction company she has her sights set on a lucrative contract with Urban Development. When Chance accidentally meets True, he not only takes her breath away but temporarily causes her to forget her vow to focus on her career. Finding love and winning the Urban Development contract, sets Chance high on the scaffolding. However, in the male-dominated industry, True is just like his father…a chauvinist. After firing the love of his life, True realizes the error of his ways. Is it too little, too late for Chance and True? Find out if love reaches the towering heights in Mergers & Acquisitions."

Title: Mergers & Acquisitions
Author: Amber G.
Publisher: Amber G. 3rd Edition
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Mergers & Acquisitions" by Amber G.

My Speculation:

I enjoyed 'Mergers & Acquisitions' that featured Chance, an entrepreneur of a construction business. Unknown for a while as she meets True, who just happened to be of the Urban Developments, he referred to hire a female owner because of his wired feelings toward females. He seemed to believe females should be home cleaning and raising children. What will happen when he finds out who Chance was, and just what could he do about this hiring? I enjoyed how well this author was able to bring in a plot that will involve many other secondary characters that help with the flow of the read. Especially with True's brother, who had been a former boyfriend of Chance. How will this all come out as we see there are still feelings between Chance and True? Be ready for some twists that will come into play, wondering what will happen next.

Blood Oath Kindle Edition by Faith

 Book Excerpt:

"Celeste fell in love with Andre the first time she laid eyes on him. She was his. Her first true love. She loved him so much she married him behind bars. He was her everything. Now that he's getting out Celeste is convinced she's going to live her happily ever after.

Will Andre live up to his promises?

Andre Harris comes from a tight-knit family. They aren't too thrilled that the baby of the family has married without the family's approval. Will they accept Celeste? Does happily ever after exist when you get married and you don't have a clue on what kind of family you've married into?

How well do you really know the one you love?"

Title: Blood Oath
Author: Faith
Publisher: Pen Bullies LLC
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Blood Oath" by Faith

My Speculation:

What a read that will keep you turning the pages to see what will be happening next for Celeste. I will say she was quite naive in how she picked this person that she married. One could tell that this whole Harris family was indeed 'crazy, deranged, and definitely psychotic.' Well, there was one son that seem OK. By the end of the story, the reader will be presented with a roller-coaster ride as Celeste having to deal with her crazy ex Andre. I was glad to see Celeste did what she had to do to save her life.

Boss'd Up With A Billionaire Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 

Book Excerpt:

"

A HOT AND JUICY NOVEL FROM BESTSELLING AUTHOR, JADE JONES

Yvonne, a dedicated special agent living in the heart of Chicago, is as smart and sensible as they come in almost everything – except love. When she meets Noble, a bad boy billionaire armed with enough suave and swagger to steal a girl’s heart, she falls head over heels in love with him. But it turns out that Yvonne’s new man is armed with a lot more than just killer good looks. 


Meanwhile, Yvonne’s best friend Sami’s love life turns into a tangled web as she holds her boyfriend, Chaos down while running around town with a married man. 


Things get even more complicated when Noble’s crazy baby mama, Zariah, who won’t give up on him, wants him back at any cost. And Noble just can’t seem to catch a break as Zariah’s cousin Abner tries to bring him down and it’s only a matter of time before Yvonne gets caught in the middle.
“

Boss’d Up with a Billionaire” is an African American urban romance filled with suspense and drama that will transport you into a fast-paced world where crime and passion collide."

Title: Boss'd Up With A Billionaire
Author: Jade Jones
Publisher: Jade Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Boss'd Up With A Billionaire" by Jade Jones

My Speculation:

The author gives the reader one entertaining read where it seems like everyone is on alert for one reason or another. I enjoyed how well I could read this fast-paced story that contained a little bit of it all from 'drama, lies, betrayal, twists and turns, and secrets' that were all over the place. By the end of the story, what will be coming next as the story continues? Who will be left standing in the future? Well, I guess we will have to pick up part two for the rest of this story.

Un-Leashed by J. Haney & S. I. Hayes

Blurb:

"And they call it Puppy Love...

Four years ago, tragedy hit and now Bennett Reynor sat in his mansion, alone. He gets everything he could want to be delivered straight to his door. His business partner Stanley would like to see him move on and live his life, but Bennett is content in his solitude, often letting his disdainful words drive everyone away.

When Bennett Reynor's husky Mia takes off, setting her on a muddy and cold pursuit, she finds herself in the yard of a grand estate while her pup is being accosted by an albino Doberman. Little does she know she's about to come face to face with the ornery owner.

Heated words are gonna fly when these two let loose their mouths with hilarious results."

Title: Un-Leashed
Author: J. Haney & S. I. Hayes
Publisher: Haney & Hayes
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Un-Leashed" by J. Haney & S. I. Hayes

My Speculation:

I love this story "Un-Leashed" that these authors have given us featuring Bennett Reynor and Clover Prescott. I enjoyed how this story comes together, bringing in two lovable dogs. Yes, both of these people have dogs[Marius & Mia], and when one gets loose on someone else's property, things will take quite a turn for Bennett and Clover. We find that even though Bennett had troubles living with his grief and loved living in solitude, I found him still having a heart with what he offered to Clover. I loved how good Bennet was with Clover's little brother, Genkei. As the story continues, one will see as love will blossom for Bennett, Clover, Genkei, and let's not leave out those beautiful dogs.

These authors worked there magic as the story will involve the deadly disease 'The Coronavirus.' This virus was well worked into this story letting the reader understand what is going on. As I read through the story, I found it identified the story as it is happening today in America, 2020. As you read the story, you will see how well these authors are on top of this subject matter in how they presented this all to the reader.

The characters from the story were to be well-developed in helping the information run so smoothly that it will keep your attention to the end. I enjoyed them all from Bennett, Marius-Dog, [Brynna & Janey], Stanley, Jenna, Gertie, Gabe, Sydney, Clover, Mia-Dog, Elara, Shanice, Genkei, Jerica, to Mikelle Sachi.

By the end, will Bennett and Clover get their HEA? I did like the little surprise we received toward the end. I will stop here because I don't want to give too much away but keep one interested in wanting you to pick up "Un-Leashed" to see how well this story was delivered.

Boo'd Up With A Bad Boy: A Standalone Novel Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 Book Excerpt:

"

A GRIPPING STANDALONE FROM BESTSELLING AUTHOR, JADE JONES

Heavy is the head that wears the crown, and Mars wears it well as the King of New York. He’s got money, fast cars, and women by the flock. But wearing the crown doesn’t mean anything when you’re alone at the top. Mars is tired of the same old money-hungry women, and he’s beginning to think that the only woman who will ever genuinely love him, is his mother. That is until he runs into the right woman.

Ulani is a beautiful girl with a broken spirit. What started out as a fairytale love, quickly turned into a horror movie nightmare. After spending most of her life under the iron fist of her controlling, abusive boyfriend Bryheem, Ulani isn’t sure if exploring a new love is even worth the wrath of her scornful ex. Love proves to be more complicated than ever when enemies vie for the same heart. The old saying goes, “may the best man win,” but who decides who is the best? With her brain and her heart pulling her in opposite directions, Ulani isn’t sure if she’s capable of making the right choice.

With his right-hand man, Jabez, by his side; can Mars maintain the top spot, care for his ailing mother, clean up after his knuckleheaded brother, and ward off foes, all while trying to mend a heart he didn’t break? And will Ulani continue to allow her past to control her future, or will she finally allow herself the healing she and her son deserve? Will she allow the love of a bad boy to take her to new heights? Or will she allow it to be her downfall?"

*** This book was previously titled "I Only Like Bad Boys" ***

Title: Boo'd Up With A Bad Boy
Author: Jade Jones
Publisher: Jaded Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Boo'd Up With A Bad Boy"' by Jade Jones

My Speculation:

Wow, what a story that left me somewhat surprised at the ending. The story started out looking like there would be help for Ulani with Mars caring for her. However, Bryheem, [Ulani's ex] was determined that it was not to be for poor Ulani. And it seems like there was some betrayal around for Mars and even his mom, but coming from his best friend left me in awe! Again, wow, what an ending!