I'll Be You A Novel by Janelle Brown

 Book Excerpt:

"Two identical twin sisters and former child actors have grown apart—until one disappears, and the other is forced to confront the secrets they've kept from each other in this twisty suspense novel from the New York Times bestselling author of Pretty Things.

"You won't be able to put this novel down, and you won't want to."—Laura Dave, New York Times bestselling author of The Last Thing He Told Me.

ONE OF THE MOST ANTICIPATED BOOKS OF 2022—PopSugar, CrimeReads

"You be me, and I'll be you," I whispered. 

As children, Sam and Elli were two halves of a perfect whole: gorgeous identical twins whose parents sometimes couldn't even tell them apart. They fell asleep to the sound of each other's breath at night, holding hands in the dark. And once Hollywood discovered them, they became B-list child TV stars, often inhabiting the same role. 

But as adults, their lives have splintered. After leaving acting, Elli reinvented herself as the perfect homemaker: married a real estate lawyer, living in a house just blocks from the beach. Meanwhile, Sam has never recovered from her failed Hollywood career or her addiction to the pills and booze that have propped her up for the last fifteen years. 

Sam hasn't spoken to her sister since her destructive behavior finally drove a wedge between them. So when her father calls out of the blue, Sam is shocked to learn that Elli's life has been in turmoil: her husband moved out, and Elli just adopted a two-year-old girl. Now she's stopped answering her phone and checked in to a mysterious spa in Ojai. Is her sister just decompressing, or is she in trouble? Could she have possibly joined a cult? As Sam works to connect the dots left by Elli's baffling disappearance, she realizes that the bond between her and her sister is more complicated than she ever knew. 

I'll Be You shows Janelle Brown at the top of her game: a story packed with surprising revelations and sharp insights about the choices that define our families and our lives—and could just as quickly destroy them."

Title: I'll Be You
Author: Janelle Brown
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"I'll Be You" by Janelle Brown

My Assessment:

'I'll Be You' was a long read, but a good one in how these identical twins Elli and Sam were former childhood TVstars who now are adults. However, even though they were identical twins, they were pretty different. We find Sam is recovering from drugs and alcohol, and Elli has divorced her husband and supposedly adopted a daughter. However, it seems like Elli is going through something but seeking help in the wrong place...a cult. Sam has been called home to help her mother, who is now taking care of Elli's child...Charlotte. What was weird about this? Sam had no dealing with children. Even though Sam has had her problems with alcohol is being asked to come home and help with this child. The big question is, where is Elli, and why is she not there taking care of her child. It wasn't like Ellie to abandon this child for a never-ending spa retreat. There will be a lot going on with these two sisters, so the reader will have to keep up with the problems the mom added to this story. Both of these sisters had issues, but it seems like just one was trying to work on theirs while the other just kept making all kinds of wrong decisions.

As the story continues, there will be a lot of twists and turns as Sam makes it her goal to find her sister as it seems like her parents are not concerned about this issue. The story starts as they are young kids who started as stars, and what an intense and intriguing read the reader will be given as we see what they go through going back and forth in time, explaining the lives of the children to the present day now that they are adults.

Be ready for a little bit of it all from 'alcoholism, kidnapping, family drama, cults, control abuse, manipulation, the twins switching places, and unfailing love of these twin sisters' will show its hand in this read.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an honest review.

The Wild Girls A Novel by Phoebe Morgan

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 Book Excerpt:

"In the vein of Lucy Foley and Ruth Ware, a deliciously wicked and atmospheric thriller about a group of old friends who plan to reconnect on an African safari vacation but soon learn that their wild pasts have finally caught up with them.

"A wonderfully atmospheric thriller of secrets, lies, and betrayals . . . a heart-stopping rollercoaster of a read." —B.A. Paris, author of Behind Closed Doors

FOUR FRIENDS. A LUXURY RETREAT. IT'S GOING TO BE MURDER.

It's been years since Grace, Felicity, Alice, and Hannah were together. The "Wild Girls," as they were once called, are no longer so wild. Alice is a teacher. Hannah has a new baby. Grace is a homebody. Only Felicity seems to have retained her former spark.

Then Felicity invites them all on the weekend of a lifetime—a birthday bash in Botswana. It will be a chance to have fun and rekindle their once bomb-proof friendship… and finally put that one horrible night, all those years ago, behind them for good.

But soon after arriving at the luxury safari lodge, a feeling of unease settles over them. There's no sign of the party that was promised. There's no phone signal. They are on their own… and things start to go very, very wrong. 

A fresh approach to the classic locked-room mystery, The Wild Girls, is sure to appeal to fans of Ruth Ware and Lucy Foley."

Title: The Wild Girls
Author: Phebe Morgan
Publisher: William Morrow and Custom House
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"The Wild Girls" by Phoebe Morgan
My Assessment:

Wow! What will happen when Hannah, Alice, Felicity, and Grace, who had been school friends, but this friendship had stopped in the last several years due to what had happened during a night of partying some two years ago. However, it seems like Felicity's 30th birthday is coming up, and she invites all three of the ladies to a luxury lodge in Botswana. Will they accept this invitation?... It seems they do; however, arriving, they find the luxury place deserted. What is up with that? This author gives the reader a lot to chew on because there will be POVs from all of these ladies. And what comes out will have one shaking their head and saying, Wow! Be ready, yes there will be ...der!

From the events at the lodge, one will get a clear picture of each of these so-called friends. It seems to be lots of secrets that will come out that help completes the whole story. One will be left thinking about what Grace had told her friend Felicity about a specific person... did it lead to this? Well, I will stop here and say you will have to pick up this read!

Also, there is a fellow in this read that causes a lot of grief, especially for one of the ladies...due to...stopping here and saying the reader must pick up this read to get it all from how well this author presents it to us. When you think the story is going one way, it takes quite a turn! It will be quite an ending where one could be left saying, Grace, you may want to watch your back with who is left from this situation.

The ending brings it all to the point of going through many twists and turns until this violent ending where lies are still being told. What a read!

Thank you, Net Galley, William Morrow, and Custom House, for my ARC and a giving an honest opinion of the read.

Mulberry Hollow by Denise Hunter

 Book Excerpt:

"Living life to the fullest always requires sacrifice.

Avery Robinson decided to be a physician after helplessly watching her mother lose a battle with a terrible disease. Avery guards her heart against love at the risk of developing the same illness. Nevertheless, she's driven to protect her loved ones as a workaholic doctor in the tiny mountain town of Riverbend Gap, North Carolina.

Contractor Wes Garrett is hiking the Appalachian trail in memory of the man who died saving his life when an illness racks his body. After an agonizing fifteen-mile hike to Avery's clinic, he collapses on her doorstep. He recovers to find himself in debt again, this time to a beautiful doctor.

When he decides to help her renovate a rundown carriage house, the obstacles to their attraction sprout like weeds—starting with the woman waiting for Wes at the end of the trail. Will he be able to relinquish the debt he owes his best friend? And will Avery find the courage to risk everything for love?"

The second book in Denise Hunter's popular Riverbend Romance series explores what it might be like to live fearlessly and free.

Title: Mulberry Hollow
Author: Denise Hunter
Series: Riverbend Romance #2
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Mulberry Hollow" by Denise Hunter

My Assessment:

'Mulberry Hollow' was a thoroughly gratifying, heartwarming, and emotional story that will keep your attention as you turn the pages. Along with the main characters, some wonderful secondary characters are well-developed, defined, and memorable, giving the reader a good read from start to finish. And let's not leave out the cat, Boot, and the interactions between Wes and his over-protective step-brother of Avery. By the way, 'Mulberry Hollow' is a neighborhood in Riverbend Gap, just off the Appalachian Trail.

It was good getting to know Dr. Avery Robinson, a workaholic doctor dealing with her difficulties, secrets, and issues, while finding another doctor who would come to Riverbend, North Carolina, to help her in her medical clinic. While this is accruing, what will happen when Wes Garrett passes out at Avery's clinic door needing medical help? Why was Wes hiking the Appalachian Trail to honor his friend Landon, who had passed away, and promised to take care of his sister Lillian? Why does Wes end up working for Avery to refurbish her carriage house? In this beautiful story, what were some heartbreaking decisions as they work through the pain Avery and Wes had to make while on this romantic journey? With Avery and Wes not looking for any relationship, what will happen when love finds a way? Be ready for a little bit of it all from 'laughter, tears, delight, and tenderness.'

You will have to pick up "Mulberry Hollow" and find out how well this author brings it all out for the readers, a beautiful read of sacrifice and love.

Thank you, Net Galley, and the publisher for the opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion of the read.

My Sister Helped Me Heal- Ebook: The Power of Kingdom Sisterhood Kindle Edition by Chavon Thomas

 Book Excerpt:

"Chavon Anette and an amazing group of women join in an Anthology to share their story about the Powerful gift of Kingdom Sisterhood. The book is about real stories of Sisterhood That helped people move - from broken to a whole - from hidden to walking in purpose - from rejected to accepted - from insecure to confident - from afraid to bold as a lioness."

Title: My Sister Helped Me Heal...The Power of Kindom Sisterhood
Author: Chavon Thomas
Publisher: C.T.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
'My Sister Helped Me Heal' by Chavon Thomas

My Assessment:

This book 'My Sister Helped Me Heal' was a wonderful group of anthologies that these women shared in 'their story about the Powerful gift of Kingdom Sisterhood. As I read through each story, I was moved by how these sisters [authors] helped one understand just what was going on in their lives and how, through Sisterhood, they were able to 'help their sisters heal.

There will be 65 stories and an epilogue of how God worked it all out for these ladies. Some of my favorites anthologies were...The Foreword by Kristal Kear...wonderfully delivered...She Didn't Know What She Carried Until...Nakia Harris...another well-told story, Teach Me to Pray...Ebony Cherry. ...Sisterhood Helped Me Heal...Domonique Peele, ...My Plan Didn't Work...Jessica Simmons,...A Divine Meet-up...Pastor Paulette Harper, "Live with purpose. Don't limit God; stay focused and allow God to take you places you have only imagined."

I am a Woman of Life,...Lakia Perez,...Hidden in insecurity to walking in purpose confidently, ...Antoinette Hines,...The Angel that Helped Me Heal, Michelle Franklin,...Covered,...Dr. Charlene Bellis,...Down but Not Out, ...Melissa L. Bell,... The Drop Could Have Killed Me, But God,...Shelia Cook,...an Ode to My Sisters, ...Tamia Copeland.

"The book is about real stories of Sisterhood That helped people move - from broken to the whole - from hidden to walking in purpose - from rejected to accepted - from insecure to confident - from afraid to bold as a lioness."

These anthologies were excellent reads; you will get something from each of the various readings. The epilogue lets one see almost their own story in many reads. One is left thinking, what is my story when all is said and done...we all have a story, and having a sister as 'God heals your heart completely and sends sisters your way to help you live and give birth to your purpose.'

This was an outstanding read!

Fear Me: AMBW Second Chance Romance (Beautiful Rage Book 2) Kindle Edition by Amarie Avant

Book Cover:

"Please read 'FEAR NONE' prior to jumping into this explosive conclusion of River and Tatum's love story. *Audiobook will launch in May

Fear doesn't last. Regret can . . .

TATUM
I’m conflicted, torn between right, wrong, and . . . love.
My River has the MMA title within his grasp, and while some people view him as a monster, River’s my biggest motivation.
My rock.
All I have to do is part ties with the devil that got us this far.
But while I’m planning our way out, everything that can go wrong does.
And I worry that my enemy, who should FEAR ME, is the only one winning. Again.

RIVER
Since being released from prison, my name has been dragged through the mud.
But I focus on sports and my dream girl.
All of a sudden, my woman’s keeping secrets from me.
Fighting solo in the cage is expected, but we’re supposed to fight our battles together.
Still, I’ll go to war for us, wipe Tatum’s tears when she cries, and hold her when she’s weary. I’ll never give up on us."

Title: Fear Me: AMBW Second Chance Romance
Author: Amarie Avant
Publisher: A.A.
Series: Beautiful Rage Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Fear Me: AMBW Second Chance Romance" by Amarie Avant
My Assessment:

'Fear Me' was the 'explosive conclusion of River and Tatum's love story.' What secret will Tatum keep from River that will present quite a few problems around her, especially for River? This author gives the reader a heck of the story; after all, it is said and done that River was always there for Tatum no matter what she had going on.

To fully understand 'Fear Me,' an AMBA Second Chance Romance, Beautiful Rage Book 2, the reader should read the first book in this series...'Fear None' an AMBW Romantic Suspense...Beautiful Rage Book 1. You will not be sorry because both stories fit together so very well.

 

Dangerous Confessions (Serena Manchester Mysteries Book 2) Kindle Edition by Tyora Moody

 Book Excerpt:

"The case from last month is still far from over for private investigator Serena "Rena" Manchester. Not just because she found herself in yet another life-threatening situation, but because the fall-out still has not been dealt with by the authorities. Determined to see justice to the end, Rena steps up her investigation along with her attractive young associate.

Rena runs into a very unpleasant woman from her past life as a reporter during a surveillance job. A few hours later, when the woman falls to her death from a beach condo balcony, Rena switches directions with her investigation. The more she digs into her past news story, the more she sees parallels to her current case. Her revelations are drawing her closer and closer to someone who's not happy about her relentless digging.

Title: Dangerous Confessions
Author: Tyora Moody
Publisher: Tymm Publishing LLC
Series: Serena Manchester Mysteries Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Dangerous Confessions" by Tyora Moody

My Assessment:

We are given by this author another good mystery about the now private investigator Serena' Rena' Manchester. What will be on this next journey as Rena, while on a surveillance job, runs into an 'unpleasant woman from her past life as a reporter and ends up falling to her death from a beach condo balcony.' What will happen as it seems the authorities think Raee may know something since she had talked with this woman earlier?

However, from this news, Rae 'finds herself switching directions from her previous investigation,' and by doing this, it seems like there is some connection from a past new story. Will Rae and Amir [her sidekick] be able to find out what all is going on as the story seems to parallel quite a bit from her current case? As people continue to be murdered, it is worth finding out what is going on in this case.

All that's left is for the reader to sit back and take it all in as these two continue to investigate and get to the bottom of what is going on in this intriguing mystery story.

Destiny Fulfilled (The DuBois-Arazi Family Novels Book 2) Kindle Edition by Unoma Nwankwor

 Book Excerpt:

"True Love Match?

Mustafa DuBois-Arazi doesn't give second chances. But Zaina Bakari needs one to redeem herself.

The legacy of his family's luxury resort, Grand Amour, is on the line, and he'll stop at nothing to preserve it. Even if it meant working with the woman, he vowed never to set eyes on her again.
For Zaina, life is great, well, almost. The way she handled Mustafa years ago constantly weighs on her conscience. Now, she finds herself in his presence again as his environmental consultant. She wants a chance to explain but quickly finds out he's not the same man she once knew."

Title:  Destiny Fulfilled

Author:  Unoma Nwankwor

Publisher:  KevStel Publications 

Series:  The DuBois-Arazi Family Novels book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Destiny Fulfilled" by UnomaNwankwor

My Assessment: 

'Destiny Fulfilled' was quite a journey for Zaina and Mustafa as they processed what true love involved. With Mustafa being an alpha and Zaina, oh yes...being 'I am woman, hear me roar,' how will these two make it without getting some help? For Mustafa, he finally gets counseling from the minister, and Zaina was listening to her friend's advice...but will this work?   This author reveals just how vital trauma can be in a person's life, and it is good when one sees they need some help.  

 I will say Zaina got on my nerves somewhat in how she processed things in her life. I kept wondering whether she learned anything from her past mistakes. So yes, this story will involve:  'love, romance, humor, lots of drama, and lessons learned.  

As the story continues, will things fall in line as the reader is given an engaging and intriguing story that will keep one turning the pages till the end to see if these two will get their HEA? To find out, you will have to pick up this well-written story and say how well this author delivers it to the reader.  

The Love We Seek: A Forbidden Love Story (The Love Series Book 1) Kindle Edition by B. Love

 Book Excerpt:

"*Please note: This is a 56,000 word standalone novel in a three-part series. Each book has a happy ending. There are no continuations. Each book features a different couple and can be read in any order.*

"People die or leave when you need them most. Nothing is ever certain. Nothing is ever sure." – Kailor Smith

When Kailor Smith's mother dies, her life crumbles. Completely. Still looking out for her in death, Asia sends Kailor on a journey of self-discovery. The journey, meant to be a six-month path of fun and finding purpose, leads Kailor to Finley Trails, where she temporarily lives with her brother Kai… and his best friend and bandmate Zion Johnson.

Zion Johnson is convinced that he has only two things to offer the world – his music and manhood. Nothing more, like love, but definitely nothing less. After losing his parents at a young age, he's convinced it's his job to protect every damsel that comes his way. Even his best friend's sister. No matter how much his best friend wants, him to stay away.

As Kailor and Zion's paths collide, they find themselves on a journey of healing and love together. There's just one problem; their union is forbidden. Not only could their relationship destroy Zion and Kai's friendship, but it also has the potential to ruin their band and all of the success they've built. The odds are stacked against them, and for a while, they are even at war with their own feelings, but Kailor and Zion must choose between love or the numbing pain they have both accepted as their truths."

Title: The Love We Seek: A Forbidden Love Story
Author: B. Love
Publisher: B. Love Publications
Series: The Love Series Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Love We Seek" by B. Love

My Assessment:

"The Love We Seek" was a good love story featuring Kailor and Zion. What will happen after Kailor Smith's mother dies, sending her on a six-month journey of self-discovery. What will Kailor find on this ride after he goes to stay with her brother Kai in Finley Trails and meets his best friend and bandmate Zion Johnson?
Will there be a change in Zion's way of living after these two lives collide, finding themselves healing and loving each other? How will these two being together caused trouble in this relationship between this brother and sister? That brother of Kailor needed to but out, even though he felt the need of being able to help his sister, but was he helping? The reader can be left with the thought that Kai needs a life of his own and to let his sister live her life. Be ready for 'some sad parts, emotional, connection, commitment, friendship, communication, forgiveness, and heartbreak' from this read as Kailor makes off their bucket list items that her mom had left her to do. To understand this good read, the reader will have to pick up 'The Love We Seek' to see how well this author brings us an epic love story.

Cursed Lawyer: A Legal Thriller Kindle Edition by Freya Atwood

Book Excerpt:

"When the town's priest dies in a brutal act of murder, a homeless woman is the only suspect. There is no evidence, no proof, except a surveillance video showing her running away.

After the death of his wife and daughters, John Crox started a non-profit law firm, desperate to help innocents. When news of the priest's murder travels around town, John decides that he'll help Camilla, the suspect.

The case looks hopeless. The woman is impulsive and uncooperative, and the authorities have an agenda. But as John and his friends investigate the church, they find a mysterious cult could be responsible…

Cursed Lawyer is Freya's exciting blood-pumping legal thriller. If you are an avid fan of strong characters, action-packed courtroom drama, and mind-blowing murder mystery, you'll love Freya's intriguing story.

Buy "Cursed Lawyer" today to discover Freya's new intriguing crime mystery!
 

Title:  Cursed Lawyer

Author:  Freya Atwood

Publisher:  F.A. 

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Cursed Lawyer" by Freya Atwood

My Assessment:

'Cursed Lawyer' was another one of this author's good reads that will keep one's attention turning the pages to see what has gone on in this Canyonville town. We find the lawyer John Crox had been through a lot after losing his wife and daughters. After that tragic event, he started picking up his life again,  opening up a non-profit law firm when a priest was murdered. John takes on the job pro bono of helping Camilla Rockwell was, a black homeless woman who had been accused of the murder. It seems like everyone has her convicted even before this trial begins. The plot will be pretty interesting as it looks like this church seemed to be involved in 'a mysterious cult.' Were there secrets being hidden about this priest? When there seems to be no one that answers many of the critical questions, how will John be able to solve this uphill battle in all of the courtroom drama? Be prepared with many twists and turns that keep one's interest in just who this murderer could be? After the verdict has been delivered, will the reader be totally surprised at whom the murderer was?  

To get the whole story and more with the extended epilogue, pick up "Cursed Lawyer" to see how well this author brings it all out to the reader; one will not be disappointed.  

Last Witness: A Legal Thriller by Ellis Keler

 Book Excerpt:

"After running away from her hometown, Emily Hart has decided to return. But, twenty years is a long time. And she finds that the hard way once she revisits her past again. As she catches up with life, a new, shocking case has shocked the city.

Her high school sweetheart, a changed man, is accused of a terrible and cruel murder. And Emily is the only one who can defend him before it's too late…

Last Witness is Ellis' 1st novel in the Emily Hart series of blood-pumping legal thrillers. You'll love Ellis's intriguing story if you are an avid fan of strong female leads, action-packed courtroom drama, riveting characters, and mind-blowing murder mystery.

Download "Last Witness" today to discover Ellis's new intriguing crime mystery and how to get the 2nd free part of the series!"

Title: Last Witness
Author: Ellis Keler
Publisher: E. K.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Last Witness" by Ellis Keler

My Assessment:

This was my first time reading from this author, and it will not be my last. Indeed this mystery crime story kept my interest, turning the pages to see what was coming next.

It seems like Emily Hart had been gone from her hometown of Linkwater for over twenty-some years due to her brother's death. Her parents couldn't forgive her for the accident that had taken Bobby's life—yes, blaming Emily! But Emily decides it's time to visit Linkwater, but there is a friend...an ex-boyfriend from high school who was in trouble needing a lawyer. This is where Emily comes into play, being a lawyer and willing to help Robert Dawson in this horrible situation of being accused of murdering his parents. There was no way the Robert she knew could have done this...so will Emily be able to get him out of this mess that the prosecutor thought had killed his parents? The reader will have to pick up 'Last Witness' to see how well this author brings it all out.

Then be prepared for 2nd part of the series!... Prisoner of Justice, and I can't wait to read it!

Protecting What's Mine: A Small Town Love Story (Benevolence Book 3) Kindle Edition by Lucy Score

 Book Excerpt:

"

If you can't stand the heat, don't fall for a firefighter…

Fire Chief Lincoln Reed is known for his heroics in the fire department and bedroom. Life is a never-ending good time. Until she lands in the middle of the accident scene, he's working…and then his backyard. Too bad she's immune to flirty first responders.

Flight trauma surgeon Mackenzie O'Neil is on a crash course with burnout. She's got a scar on her face and a shake in her hands. A temporary job as a small-town family physician is just the prescription. She'll learn to meditate. Sleep more. Take up gardening.

She definitely won't take her shirtless, firefighting neighbor's hot body for a test drive.

But Linc and his tattoos are very persuasive. So what's a harmless little adrenaline-fueled fling between neighbors? It's all naked fun and games until the shadows from Mack's past find their way into her present. Can Linc be her hero when she needs him the most, or will their scars ruin everything?

One thing is sure: Someone is going to get burned."

Author's Warning: This small-town happily ever after is smokin' hot, sweetly hilarious, deliciously suspenseful, and a one-two punch to the feels. One-click for a disaster dog, precocious kids, an excellent ol' fistfight, nosy neighbors, high-adrenaline first responder heroics, firefighter bromance, and kitchen sexytimes.

Title: Protecting What's Mine
Author: Lucy Score
Publisher: That's What She Said Publishing
Series: Benevolence Book 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Protecting What's Mine" by Lucy Score

My Assessment:

One could tell that there was chemistry between Lincoln Reed and MacKenzie O'Neill when they first met. There will be a lot of serious issues that go on in this story that will be brought out by the end of the read, especially for Mack...a flight trauma surgeon. I loved their pet names...[Linc] Chief Sexy Pants and [Mack] Doc Dreamy. The story was 'exciting, humorous, sweet, and sexy,' however, Mack's family was a pick of work. The dog, Sunshine, and the bonus epilogue were delightful in the story. Many of the characters were from the previous series, so if you haven't read them...please do. It will make this series move smoothly for the reader. I did wish that Linc and Luke could have gotten along much better...but oh well... at least one can see how well Linc did protect what he considered was his.

Finally Mine: A Small Town Love Story (Benevolence Book 2) Kindle Edition by Lucy Score

 Book Excerpt:

"If he doesn't end up naked and spread eagle on my bed, I. Will. Die.

Gloria is due a happily ever after. She's lost ten years to a toxic, dangerous relationship. Now that she's finally free—and medicating with makeovers and margaritas in her mother's kitchen—she has a long road to remembering who she really is. She's scarred. But scarred doesn't mean broken.

While Gloria decides to take the next decade off from men, larger-than-life hometown hero Aldo Moretta comes. He's saying all the right things and flirting in all the right ways. He's deploying for six months and wants a date…with Gloria…when he comes back. Swoon. Panic.

One kiss, one dazzling, remember-for-a-lifetime kiss, and he's gone. But life and happily ever afters don't always take the straight path. So when Aldo's deployment is cut short by an injury, Gloria is up to be the hero for them both.

Author's Note: You will laugh, cry, and fall head over face for Gloria and Aldo. And the evil rescue kitten. Also, the four-letter-word-loving, commando-going Mrs. Moretta, who's just in it for the cookies.

Title:  Finally Mine:  a Small Town Love Story

Author:  Lucky Score

Publisher: That's What She Said Publishing 

Series:  Benevolence Book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Finally Mine" by Lucy Score

My Assessment:

"Finally Mine" was a very enriching complex emotional story featuring Aldo Moretta and Gloria Parker, both coming from a horrible past. There is love that couldn't be denied but will this love be enough to carry them through the pain, abuse, domestic violence, fears, self-doubt, and difficult past experiences to overcome. Be ready for a long read that keeps you turning the pages till the end, giving the reader one fantastic read of how these two, Aldo and Gloria, were handed a second chance at love as the story unfolds. To get more into this story, I would suggest the reader reads this first series...'Pretend You're Mine' brings in quite a bit of understanding more of 'Finally Mine,' which will deliver one excellent captivating storyline.  

Pretend You're Mine: A Small Town Love Story (Benevolence Book 1) Kindle Edition by Lucy Score

 Book Excerpt:

"

I only wanted to protect you…

Luke Garrison is a hometown hero, a member of the National Guard, ready to deploy again. He's strong, sexy, broody. The last thing he's looking for is a woman to ruin his solitude. When the wildly beautiful Harper stumbles into his life, he realizes that she's the perfect decoy. A fake girlfriend to keep his family off his back until he's deployed.

So what if kissing her sends his mind to wicked places? He can control himself. Can't he?

Harper was on her way to starting a new life… again. But something about Luke makes her want to settle down in this small town and make his house a home. When she's in his arms, she finally knows it's like to feel safe. Protected.

One night of sharing a bed turns into something much, much more… and soon Luke can't keep his mind off Harper's wide gray eyes or his hands off her luscious curves. He never thought he'd feel this way about a woman again. But he knows that he can't tell her the truth about his dark past. And she can't reveal what she's running from.

At least this isn't a real relationship. It's only for a month. It's only pretending. Until it isn't…."

Title:  Pretend You're Mine:  A Small Town Love Story

Author:  Lucy Score

Publisher: That's What She Said Publishing

Series;  Benevolence Book 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Pretend You're Mine" by Lucy Score

My Assessment:

What a story this author gives us quite an entertaining, emotional rollercoaster ride read which had a little bit of it all from the two main characters...Luke and Harper. Be prepared for a read with many storylines, but this author keeps it honest while giving us many likable characters and a few that weren't.   

What will happen when Harper Wilde has lost her way and ends up in Benevolence, Maryland, and she meets Luke Garrison? How will these two opposites compete with each other? What plays with Luke's sister Sophie comes into this situation that keeps Harper in the town?

Be ready for a read that will present 'complicated situations that cause tension, hard feelings, revelations, and twists and turns in the story' that will have one shaking their heads! But unfortunately, there will be no instant fixes for Luke and Harper, who made many mistakes that will present some heartbreak. 

The reader will enjoy picking up and seeing how well this author brings 'Pretend You're Mine' together for an exciting read that will leave a smile on one's face.