Die For You By Amarie Avant

 Book Excerpt:

"Wᴇ MᴀᴄKᴇɴᴢɪᴇ's ᴀʀᴇ ʜᴇɴᴄʜᴍᴇɴ. Tʜᴇ ᴡʜᴏʟᴇ ʟᴏᴛ ᴏғ ᴜs. Uɴᴛɪʟ I ᴍᴇᴛ ʜᴇʀ . . .

LEITH

In Clan MacKenzie, we fight for each other. 

We die for each other.

And when I fell for Chevelle, those same rules applied to her.

She loves me but hates the family business.

So, I hid the villain in me until today.

Today, I need to do what must be done and that requires the help of the same people, she would rather us keep our distance from.

 

CHEVELLE

After tragedy destroyed my family, I should’ve run from all things—MacKenzie not straight into Leith Mackenzie's arms.

I was broken.

He remade me. 

Loved our little baby and me. 

Showed me that monsters could be humans and have hearts too. 

That he could be different than the rest of his ruthless clan.

Unfortunately, now, Leith can't be the hero for me that he was before.

He needs to be that Savage Scot instead, and I'm afraid it'll cost us everything.

*Die For You is the first book in the BWWM Romance, MacKenzie Crime Family series. This steamy love story is a STANDALONE and contains NO CLIFFHANGERS, NO CHEATING, and has a HEA. This is a mature new adult romantic suspense that contains situations that some readers might find offensive.

Title: Die For You
Author: Amarie Avant
Publisher: A.A.
Reveiwed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Die For You" by Amarie Avant
My Opinion:
"Die For You" was quite an interesting 'MacKenzie Scottish Crime Family' read where Leith and Chevelle's story features. We find Chevelle had gone through quite a bit when she meets Leith MacKenzie and how her life will change. We get to see what happens when these two falls for one another after tragedy befalls the Chevelle family.
Leith MacKenzie loved Chevelle, but she hated his family business, so he did what he could to keep her out of what was going on. But was this a good thing, especially when things started coming out about him in his ruthless clan? What will happen when secrets start to come out? How will this affect Chevelle? This is a deep story, and I don't want to tell too much other than to say you will have to pick this story up to see how all of this will come out and get all of these questions answered and more. I was glad to see Chevelle finally getting the truth of how her parents had died. What all will Leith have to go through to be Chevelle's hero again as he is depicted as a 'Savage Scot' after she finally finds out what all is going in in this crime family? Will Chevelle realize that she was in this family business whether she wanted to be in it or not? A few times, Chevelle got on my last nerve in how she proceeds with things around her; however, I could understand why she didn't care for that certain brother in law!! And on that subject, I will say the characters in 'Die For You' were all well developed and defined, giving this read one engaging read that will keep your attention through the read.  This is a crime series, so be ready for a little bit of it all, from the hot steamy love of two childhood lovers to lots that go into being in the crime family business that takes care of everyone in the family.

In the end, will Chevelle be able to accept being in the MacKenzie Crime Family what all it involves? Well, to see how it all comes out, you will have to pick up "Die For You' as a good standalone, with no cliffhangers and a HEA that I would recommend to you as a good read. Oh, I enjoyed receiving the 'Die For You' Excerpt that gave the reader a glossary that included words in the story that helped me understand a lot of what was going on in the story.

Shattered 2 Kindle Edition by Lakisha Johnson

Book Excerpt:

"The humiliation and guilt of so many bad decisions; created more dark days and nights of tears and shattered conditions.

The shattered remnants of Camille’s life are so entangled in her soul that no matter how much she tries to release them, they are hard to let go of.

After experiencing tragedy, pain, and loss, she decided it was time to get the desperately needed help. She began to take prayer and therapy seriously and fight for her marriage to help her succeed.

And things started to get better.

She received the nomination for the judge, her family and friends are good, she’s smiling ... Until she comes face to face with the one who’s trying to sabotage her career, and it’s the last person she expected. Devastated and hurt, she does what has always worked for her, to hide her pain and run.

In the finale of this Shattered series, Camille has to pick up the pieces of her life again. This time it’s proving to be harder because she’ll have to give up things, fight against what hurts, admit she hard truths and say goodbye, all while realizing she has more tears to cry."

Title: Shattered 2
Author: Lakisha Johnson
Publisher: Twins Write 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Shattered 2" by Lakisha Johnson
My Opinion:

I will say that 'Shattered 2' had me in tears while reading through this story. Seeing how a husband can betray his wife was something to read as he was constantly professing his love for her. It was definitely shown that Thomas needs some therapy too. Along with Thomas, there was Paul that needed help too. Poor Lyn, oh my God, I felt so sorry for her. What I couldn't understand it wasn't like she didn't have friends around her that love her, but I guess that wasn't enough. It was so good to see Camille finally getting a grip on her life, and knowing enough was enough to see some things are not to be. I loved the scriptures, prayers, sermons, therapy, and songs presented in the story that helped me understand it all with all of the 'struggles, emotions, mental, and physical hurt' that was well presented. This was a wonderful story of one being shattering and finally restored to become whole once again...'From shattered pieces to strength, I'm surviving me.' These two stories, 'Shattered 1 and 2,' were simply two good stories that are well worth the reading.

 

Shattered Kindle Edition by Lakisha Johnson

 Book Excerpt:

"Camille's character is from When the Vows Break. Due to this, the first couple of chapters may seem familiar but from Camille's perspective.

Shattered, a word that means broken into pieces or exhausted, and it sums up Camille's life perfectly.

You met her in When the Vows Break, and if you remember, Camille Shannon is who she is. Unapologetically Cam with no holds barred and want what she wants. Until eighteen months ago, when she came face to face with a demon of her past, and it sent her spiraling.

From unfaithfulness to drugs, to love and loss; she's experienced it. Some of it is due to her actions, yet it's proving harder than she expected when she tries to get her life together.

To complicate matters, her dream job is within reach, but someone is determined to make sure she'll never grasp it.

Will Camille find the strength to deal with the skeletons in her closet, the ones that left her torn and battered, or will she always be Camille Shannon, hiding instead of owning her truth ... she's SHATTERED?"

Camille's character is from When the Vows Break. Due to this, the first couple of chapters may seem familiar but from Camille's perspective.

Title: Shattered
Author: Lakisha Johnson
Publisher: Twins Write 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Shattered" by Lakisha Johnson

My Opinion:

All I can say is this is what happens when your vows have been broken and shattered as it was for Camille in this particular story. It was good seeing Camille finally addressing her issues, and I especially loved the biblical references, prayers, and, yes, with some therapy. But I was definitely shocked at the end of what message Camille's husband Thomas had for her. How will she be able to handle this information?

Camille was not only in this read, but it looks like Lynn has some problems that she will have to face in her life. Will she be able to endure it all?

Will each of these ladies be able to pick up the 'shattered' pieces of their lives? To find out the answers and much more, you will have to pick up the next part 2 of the story. And yes, this was quite a good read!

When the Vows Break 3 Kindle Edition by Lakisha Johnson

 Book Excerpt:

"After the broken hearts, crushed promises and shattered trust caused by sin and fleshly lust;

Came pain, forgiveness, and the chance to start over but is it too late for some to recover?

The Bible says in 1 Peter 4:12-13, "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad about exceeding joy." But how can you hold on when it seems everything is fighting against what you're praying for?

These six friends have endured a lot, and it doesn't seem like an end is in sight. With more storms and broken hearts, more shattered trust, and crushed promises, some are on the verge of giving it all up.

Will they hold on long enough to go through God's process of recovery and restoration, or will it be more than they can take? Find out in the finale of When the Vows Break?"

Title:  When the Vow Break 3

Author:  Lakisha Johnson

Publisher:  Twins Write 2; 2nd edition 

Series:  Part 3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"When the Vows Break 3" by Lakisha Johnson

My Opinion: 

I will say that this last part 3 didn't disappoint me in any way as this author brings out this well-written story to the reader.  Be ready for plenty of twists and turns and, yes, bumps in the road of this rollercoaster ride for these six main characters.  I enjoyed how this Christian part was well portrayed in this story that did add so much to this novel.  Definitely, the prayers and scriptures and sermons were right on time for these characters.  It's good to know more of Camille and Lyn's story that will be played out in the next series, Shattered 1 and 2. I will also say that I did enjoy the read of 'When the Vows Break 1-2 and 3.'  You will have to read all three to truly understand what this author has put out there for the readers by giving us a good read.    

When the Vows Break 2 Kindle Edition by Lakisha Johnson

Book Excerpt:

"When the Vows Break, tears will surely fall, but will the marriages and friendships survive the damage of it all?

All hell broke loose, and it has unleashed damage and chaos in the lives of these six friends.

For Shelby, Ray, Kerri, Chloe, Lyn, and Cam, the storm clouds are rolling in, and there doesn't seem to be an end. For some of them, they'll find their way back to God, but for others, inner turmoil will push them further away.

More secrets, more lying, more cheating, and more temptations still prove that not everything is what it seems.

Will they be able to get through the pain and make their way to forgiveness, or will it be more than they can take? Find out in part 2 of When the Vows Break."
 

Title: When the Vows Break 2
Author: Lakisha Johnson
Publisher: Twins Write 2; 2nd edition
Series: Part 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"When the Vows Break 2" by Lakisha Johnson

My Opinion:

Hopefully, if you are reading book 2, you read book 1 to understand what has gone on with these six friends. Be prepared to get another intended dramatic read as the story continues with these ladies' lives seem to be feeling about through every chapter. I did enjoy the prayers and sermons [Bible references] that were given; hopefully, it will help those that will be willing to take it all in. It does seem like one of the ladies doesn't want any help, or it seems like she doesn't realize she needs help, and until that happens...oh well! This will show how the struggles were for each of these six individuals' battles with their lives. Will they make it? Again, we will have to pick up the next part 3 to hopefully get the ending to bring it out about each of these individuals.

When the Vows Break Kindle Edition by Lakisha Johnson

 Book Excerpt:

"Dearly beloved, that’s how it begins.

What God has joined together, let no man put asunder; that’s how it ends.
Happily married, wedded bliss and with these rings, we do take;
But what happens to happily ever after, when the vows break?

Shelby, Raylan, Chloe, Lynesha, Kerri, and Camille have been friends since freshmen year of high school. They’ve been together through college, failed relationships, deaths, and sickness. They've watched each other grow and become business leaders and owners, wives and mothers.

They've survived when most people say women can't be friends.

Then, all hell breaks loose in each of their marriages.

Secrets, lying, cheating, drugs, alcohol, and temptations prove that not everything is what it seems.

Will the chaos of it all be more than they can take? Find out in part 1 of When the Vows Break."

 

Title: When the Vows Break
Author: Lakisha Johnson
Publisher: Twins Write 2
Series: Part I
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"When the Vows Break" by Lakisha Johnson

My Opinion:

This was quite a real story that you had to keep up with to understand what was going on for six best friends truly...Camille, Shelby, Raylan, Chloe, Kerri, and Lynesha. I will also say that each of these characters had their significant other from Thomas, Brian, Justin, Chris, Michael, and Paul. The story will have a little bit of it all from 'homosexuality, adultery, careers, cheating, lies, secrets, deceit, drama, unfaithfulness, flirtation, fakery that one may not expect from so-called friends, but believe me. It can happen. What I wondered about as I was reading this novel how could this happen to these well-educated friends? Even some Christianity was brought in, but I am not sure it was enough to help in these ladies' situations.

Well, to find out, all that is left to say is that you will have to pick up "When the Vows Break" so see how this author will bring it all out; however, be ready to need to purchase part two to get the next part of the story. I will say you will have to stay with the story[I had to keep notes] because the connection is spread among all six of the characters with lots of twists and turns that will give the reader quite an interesting read to the end, leaving one wanting more.

Between Now And Forever (Callaways Book 4) Kindle Edition by Barbara Freethy

 Book Excerpt:

""Heartbreaking, tender, and romantic. This one tug on the heartstrings." Karen 

Nicole met Ryan when he was a handsome, cocky teenager with a desire to fly high above the clouds. Ryan encouraged Nicole to dream big and promised her a lifetime of happiness, but several years into their lives together, they were faced with obstacles bigger than either had ever imagined. Their love faltered. They lost their way and considered what had once been unthinkable—the end of their forever. 

But now fate throws them a curve, an event that forces them back together, that strips their emotions bare and is both terrifying and strangely unifying. For the first time in a long while, they have to face each other and talk and listen because their lives depend on it—not only their lives but also the life of their six-year-old son. 

Secrets and lies frame a perilous journey to the truth that takes Nicole and Ryan to Angel's Bay, a place where miracles sometimes happen. But to get that miracle, Nicole and Ryan must work together and learn how to trust and love each other again. Only then will they be able to save their family and find their way to happily ever after."

Title: Between Now And Forever
Author: Barbara Freethy
Publisher: Fog City Publishing, LLC
Series: Callaways Book 4
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Between Now And Forever" by Barbara Freethy

My Opinion:

"Between Now and Forever" was quite an interesting story that dealt with autism. We find two parents that are brought back together due to what happened when their son was kidnapped. As the story continues, we find that another boy [Kyle] had been kidnapped, which ended up being twins separated at birth. There will be many twists and turns in the story as the two boys [Kyle & Brandon] are united together due to this kidnapping. The story will be one riveting tale where families and friends will rally together. Also, Nicole and Ryan look like they will find their way back together again as they search and found their son Brandon. It was good seeing the story come together as the two boys were now living close to each other, where one would be there to help support the other brother.

Coffee and Kisses (The Candy Beach Series Book 4) Kindle Edition by Cecelia Dowdy Jan 15

Book Excerpt:

"When Rainy Jackson embarks on a cruise to escape her two-timing ex-fiancé, she meets handsome, charming Winston Michaels. Winston is trying to deal with his pain. A recovering alcoholic, he's not emotionally strong enough for a relationship. Can he assist Rainy with her ministry and learn to lean on God instead of alcohol?"

Title:  Coffee and Kisses

Author:  Cecelia Dowdy

Publisher:  Divine Desserts Publishing LLC 

Series:  The Candy Beach Series Book 4

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Four

Review:

"Coffee and Kisses" by Cecelia Dowdy

My Opinion:

'Coffe and Kisses' was a romantic read that featured Rainy Jackson and Winston Michaels.  We find that both of these two people had something that had gone on in their lives that had caused them both personal problems.  For Rainey meeting, Winston on a cruise was just what her best friend thought was need after separating from her ex-fiance, and for Winston, who was giving over alcoholism after his twin sister had died of cancer.  I enjoyed how these two comings together where they had God in their lives; however, it seems like, for Rainy, she had a problem with trust.  After what Rainy had gone through with her ex Jordan, one's faith can be somewhat shaken, but I will say at times she really needed to give it to God and leave it there for Him to work it all out. Thank goodness she did listen to her friend.   I do feel if Rainy hadn't changed, she would have lost Winston.  Thank goodness for Winston because he definitely had the patience to stick with Rainy in all of her ups and downs till the very end.

The story comes together very well by the end, giving the reader a good read.  

Shipped by Angie Hockman

 Book Excerpt:

"The Unhoneymooners meets The Hating Game in this witty, clever, and swoon-worthy novel following a workaholic marketing manager who is forced to go on a cruise with her arch-nemesis when they’re up for the same promotion.

Between taking night classes for her MBA and her demanding day job at a cruise line, marketing manager Henley Evans barely has time for herself, let alone family, friends, or dating. But when she’s shortlisted for the promotion of her dreams, all her sacrifices finally seem worth it.

The only problem? Graeme Crawford-Collins, the remote social media manager and the bane of her existence, is also up for the position. Although they’ve never met in person, their epic email battles are the stuff of office legend.

Their boss tasks each of them with drafting a proposal on boosting bookings in the Galápagos—the best proposal wins the promotion. There’s just one catch: they have to go on a company cruise to the Galápagos Islands...together. But when the two meet on the ship, Henley is shocked to discover that the real Graeme is nothing like she imagined. As they explore the Islands together, she soon finds the line between loathing and liking thinner than a postcard.

With her career dreams in her sights and a growing attraction to the competition, Henley begins questioning her life choices. Because what’s the point of working all the time if you never actually live?"

Perfect for Christina Lauren and Sally Thorne's fans, Shipped is a fresh and engaging rom-com that celebrates the power of second chances and the magic of new beginnings.

Title: Shipped
Author: Angie Hockman
Publisher: Gallery Books
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Shipped" by Angie Hockman

My Opinion:

'Shipped' was an enjoyable read that was about female empowerment that goes on in the workplace. Definitely, in the end, the jerk gets what's coming to him. I loved how this author puts this story together, featuring Henley working as a cruise line market manager and Graeme as a social media manager.

What will happen when their boss decides to send them on a cruise together to come up with the best digital marketing campaign? Why did Henley hate Graeme so much? When it's all said and done between these two, Henley and Graeme, who will get the promotion? What's up with the chemistry between these two? This is where I say you will have to pick up 'Shipped' to see how this story will turn out.

Be ready for a fun read with an enjoyable journey to the Galapagos Islands while on the cruise, along with some romantic comedy, which was beautifully told.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.

Here's to Us: An Ali Addition Kindle Edition by Celeste Granger

 Book Excerpt:

"He loves without condition.

She loves with reckless abandon.
With a kiss at midnight comes wedding bells for Naomi Singleton and Tareef Ali.

This story is a bonus to the Brothers Ali Series and ends with a happily ever after."

To read Naomi and Tareef's full story, read Tareef: Brothers Ali Book 4.

Title:  Here's to Us: An Ali Addition

Author:  Celeste Granger

Publisher:  C.G.      

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  5

Review:

"Here's to Us" by Celeste Granger

My Opinion:  

What a beautiful story 'Here's To Us' featuring Naomi Singleton and Tareef Ali.  I loved all of the love shown, dedication, and commitment to the families in this series.  This was a good conclusion to series four: Tareef [The Brothers Ali Books]. Look for a story with a great storyline, well-defined characters, and a hot sexy romance. It was great seeing how their HEA turns out.  

Nailing Mr. Nasty (Campy Romances Series Book 2) Kindle Edition by Deborah Camp

 Book Excerpt:

"They call him Mr. Nasty . . .

Jack Nast knows better than to date an employee, especially a curvy, sexy employee like Samantha Striker. Sam knows better than to tug the tail of a lion-like Jack Nast, but she just can't help herself. He's big, brawny, and teeming with testosterone. How's a girl supposed to resist that combination? Besides, he doesn't scare her!
Much."

Another fun, sexy "Campy Romance" for your reading pleasure!

Title: Nailing Mr. Nasty
Author: Deborah Camp
Publisher: D.C.
Series: Campy Romances Series Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Nailing Mr. Nasty" by Deborah Camp

My Opinion:

'Nailing Mr. Nasty' was quite a sweet romantic read that will keep the reader turning the pages to see what is coming next for Samantha [Sam] Striker and Jack Nast. I enjoyed how well this author puts the story together in just why was Jack called 'Mr. Nasty' in the first place. What will happen when these two meet with Sam being an employee of Jack. I will say it was quite a meeting with Sam being a little more than what Jack thought. Now, why was that? Sam is working for contractor Jack Nast during the time for her best friends during her maternity leave.

So, how did Jack get this name of being called 'Mr. Nasty?' What will all go on between these two as Sam works as Jack's office manager? What will happen as these two seem to have some funny bartering going on, and oh, I don't want to leave out the hot chemistry that these two seem to have toward each other. I will stop here and say you must pick up this good read, 'Nailing Mr. Nasty,' to see how this author answers all the questions above, giving the readers a well-written story that will keep you turning the pages.

I will say that this story involved a subject that I found somewhat sad about how the story was processed with the way the story all turned out. However, at least Jack could get the help he needed to move forward in his family situation.