The Resolution by Lachlan Pirie

 Book Excerpt:

"Jonathan Little, an ex-criminal lawyer, suggests to his cellmate, Daniel Rodriguez, that they should hatch a plan to "get rid" of their wives – who they hate more than anything – for good.

Their plan is fool-proof and would be perfect if not for the tenacity of Daniel's wife – the beautiful, courageous, life-embracing Janet Rodriguez.

What starts as a vengeful plot turns into a story of misplaced love and recompense as both men face the women who absorbed most of their lives.

Uniquely Australian, this satire of love gone wrong is an elaborate thriller that begs the question: at what point is there no turning back?"

Title: The Resolution
Author: Lachlan Pirie
Publisher: Ocean Reeve Publishing
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"The Resolution" by Lachlan Pirie

My Sentiments:

This author gave the reader quite a read in keeping up with what was going on with these characters. Be ready for many twists and turns, along with quite a suspenseful read in this 'dark humor and satire read.' Indeed Daniel and Jonathan were some strong characters, and let's not leave out Janet, which slightly offered some dark humor to the story. By the way, these characters had been in prison. Unfortunately, to get the whole story, you will have to put up this read...which is rather long to get the story that will keep you turning the pages to the end, especially if you like suspense.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Ocean Reeve Publishing.

An Autobiography of Skin A Novel by Lakiesha Carr

 Book Excerpt:

"Heat. Fire. The rain is so blue. The blackness. The color of our hue.

A magisterial, intimate look at Black womanhood: the grief carried within the body and the bonds of love that grant strength.

"Powerful in its love for the generations of Black women at its heart... Lakiesha Carr unspools her stories with a patient fearlessness, venturing into unexpected places and unique perspectives to fully illuminate them." —Dawnie Walton, author of The Final Revival of Opal and Nev.

A middle-aged woman feeds slots at a secret, back-room parlor. A new mother descends into a devastating postpartum depression, wracked with the fear that she cannot protect her children. Finally, a daughter returns home to join the other women in her family, waging spiritual combat with the ghosts of their past.

An Autobiography of Skin is a dazzling and masterful portrait of interconnected generations in the South from a singular new voice, offering a raw and tender view into the interior lives of Black women. It is a powerful look at how experiences are carried inside the body, the flesh and skin, and a joyous testament to how healing can be found within—in love, mercy, gratitude, and freedom."

Title: An Autobiography of Skin
Author: Lakiesha Carr
Publisher: Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor, Pantheon
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"An Autobiography" by Lakiesha Carr

My Sentiments:

''An Autobiography of Skin" was a delightful story of three short stories set in Texas, about Nettie during the civil rights movement,... her life; then on to Maya's story was of motherhood, postpartum, and depression, with the last story, was a little out there as it focused on reading minds and fighting ghosts. However, the three stories were of '3 black women in the south who faced various struggles in their life that dealt with 'Black women whose lives were haunted, not happy stories, dealing with families, Black killings, religions, drugs, alcohol, relationships with men, their connections, friendship, love sorrow, joy, and family.' It was interesting how well this author was about putting these three stunning stories together.

Be ready for a thought-provoking read that will give one much to think about long after the read.


Thank you, NetGalley, for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Wrath (The 7 Deadly Sins) Kindle Edition by Tanisha Stewart

 Book Excerpt:

"Tony is a man after God's own heart. Saved from a past riddled with criminal activity, his life's goal is to build a future as a minister-in-training. Tony feels life is complete with his beautiful wife, Meka, and their unborn child by his side.

Until he delivers his trial sermon, and tragedy strikes in the worst way.

Devastated by the blow, Tony strives to shake it off and hold himself together. Tony clings to hope, and things get better...until they worsen.

Dazed and confused with competing voices drowning his focus, Tony finds himself at his wit's end. The Bible says that vengeance belongs to the Lord, but whose voice will Tony bow to - the Holy Spirit, or the wicked whispers of his flesh?"

Title: Wrath [The 7 Deadly Sins]
Authors: Tanisha Steward & Diamond Griffin
Publisher: Literary Freedom Publishing, LLC
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Wrath [The 7 Deadly Sins] by Tanisha Stewart & Diamond Griffin

My Sentiments:

In 'Wrath,' the author gives the reader a good story of how things can change and be dealt with as it was for Tony. When it looks like the world is beautiful for Tony and his wife, Mika, things will change for them, leaving Tony despairing due to her death. How will this affect Tony, even with him being a minister? Will he let God back into his life and listen to his minister, brother, and friend, Rebecca? How will this outcome come out between Tony and Donte? To get this whole story, the reader must pick this good read-up and see how Tony makes it through with all that has been given to him because, in the end, 'God is good' all the time!

 

Lucas: Book 2: the Flex Series Kindle Edition by Celeste Granger

 Book Excerpt:

"For Journi St. James, traveling the world was status quo, something she had been doing since birth. But as an international translator who speaks multiple languages, she changed what she was used to, parlaying her travel into an illustrious career. Traveling and negotiation were also how Journi dealt with past hurt from love, not long lost.

Lucas Baker also traveled the world but for very different reasons. He is his primary bodyguard to Gideon. St. Clair and Gideon's musical endeavors took Lucas to places others had only dreamed of. Unfortunately, his busy schedule precluded Lucas from laying a loving foundation and building with that special someone.
But a chance encounter would change the trajectory of their hidden desires and place Journi in Lucas' orbit. So she's reticent, not willing to avail herself of another hurt. Yet his persistence and consistency prove to Journi that finding real love is worth the risk."

Title: Lucas
Author: Celeste Granger
Publisher: C.G.
Series: Flex Series Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Lucas" by Celeste Granger

My Sentiments:

'Lucas' was quite a good read that featured Lucas and Journi. They met after working as security for Gideon as this series continues. Journi has just come out of a relationship, and a connection will start with meeting Lucas. But was it to be after she found herself pregnant with her ex's baby? The story will be an enjoyable romance as one will see how well Lucas treats Journi in all she is going through. Pick up this good read to see how well this author gives the reader a loving and attractive story that will keep one turning the pages until the end.

You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty: A Novel Kindle Edition by Akwaeke Emezi

 Book Excerpt:

"Feyi Adekola wants to learn how to be alive again.

It's been five years since the accident that killed the love of her life, and she's almost a new person now—an artist with her own studio and sharing a brownstone apartment with her ride-or-die best friend, Joy, who insists it's time for Feyi to ease back into the dating scene. Feyi isn't ready for anything serious, but a steamy encounter at a rooftop party cascades into a whirlwind summer she could have never imagined: a luxury trip to a tropical island, decadent meals in the glamorous home of a celebrity chef, and a major curator who wants to launch her art career.

She's even started dating the perfect guy. Still, their new relationship might be sabotaged before it has a chance by the overwhelming desire Feyi feels every time she locks eyes with the one person in the house who is most definitely off-limits—his father.

This new life she asked for getting a lot more complicated, and Feyi must begin searching for real answers. Who is she ready to become? Can she release her past and honor her grief while embracing her future? And, of course, there's the biggest question of all—how far is she willing to go for a second chance at love? Akwaeke Emezi's vivid and passionate writing takes us deep into a world of possibility, healing, and the constant bravery of choosing love against all odds."

Title: You Made a Fool of Death with your Beauty
Author: Akwaeke Emezi
Publisher: Atria Books
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty" by Akwaeke Emezi

My Sentiments:

'You Made A Fool of Death With Your Beauty' was quite a read that featured Feyi, who had lost her husband in a car accident and, after five years, is trying to get back into the swing of things [dating] with the help of her best friend, Joy. But will this be a good thing for Feyi as she starts going out with Milan, and after that doesn't work out, she gets involved as friends with Nasir, who happens to be friends with Milan? Everything was going well as Feyi and Nasir were just friends, and he offered her a trip that dealt with her being an artist and staying at his father's place. Milan Blake was an art collector and famous Michelin star chef place, who lived out of the country...on an island.

Since these two Feyi and Nasir were just friends...he wanted more, but would that be as the story continues? So the story will end up being a 'love story within a love story,' Will Feyi find love after losing her husband? And who will it be with, Nasir or his ...?

You, the reader, must pick up this good read to see how this author brings out this romance. Be prepared for 'twists, turns, death, family, grief, shock, pain, healing, growth, courage, love, and drama' that will leave one shaking their head and saying, wow!

Innocent Until Proven Addicted: A Rachel Hart Legal Thriller (Rachel Hart Legal Thriller Series Book 1) Kindle Edition by Ellis Keler

 Book Excerpt:

"Grief-stricken after her husband's death, Rachel Hart faces her most formidable challenge yet: a high-stakes murder case.

When a young man with a questionable past seeks help clearing his name, she takes on the case, utterly convinced of his innocence. However, when she uncovers a shocking connection between the accused and the victim's family, her investigation leads her down a dangerous path...

In a race against time, Rachel edges closer to solving the case. But a pivotal piece of evidence presents the ultimate dilemma: should she consider her client guilty until proven innocent?

Innocent Until Proven Addicted is an exciting blood-pumping legal thriller written by Ellis Keler and published by Cobalt Fairy."

Title: Innocent Until Proven Addicted
Author: Ellis Keler
Publisher: ‎ Cobalt Fairy LLC
Series: Rachel Hart Legal Thriller Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Innocent Until Proven Addicted" by Ellis Keler

My Sentiments:

"Innocent Until Proven Addited" featured Rachel Hart as a corporate attorney who opened her own law office when all kinds of things started happening to her. Rachel's husband Alexander had died, leaving her with two boys to raise. Plus, with all that, she had a law office to run as she had taken a case when the client was charged with first-degree murder. One good thing about this case was that Rachel had three people [lawyers] who worked for her [Annie, David, and Nicholas] who gave their all to help her solve it. This author did an excellent job showing the reader some interesting characters in this story.

Will Rachel believe her client, Jack Leonard, is innocent as he claims? There were many twists and turns that Rachel met even ... well, I will stop here and say this legal thriller suspenseful read was a good one that the reader will keep guessing until the end to see how it all turns out.

The Lawyer's Last Stand: A James Acker Legal Thriller (James Acker legal thriller series Book 6) Kindle Edition by Freya Atwood

Book Excerpt:

"James Acker stands at the brink of his own trial, with his freedom and reputation on the line. The twist? He's his own lawyer.

As he battles to defend himself, a cryptic mystery unfolds. The sudden disappearance of his brother casts a dark shadow over his already precarious situation, leaving James to fight on multiple fronts.

With trust in short supply, James is forced to confront the unknown in a desperate search for answers that may hold the key to his freedom.

The Lawyer's Last Stand is an exciting blood-pumping legal thriller written by Freya Atwood and published by Cobalt Fairy.

If you are an avid fan of strong characters, action-packed courtroom drama, and mind-blowing murder mysteries, then you'll love Freya's intriguing story."

Buy "The Lawyer's Last Stand" today to discover Freya's new intriguing crime mystery!
 

Title: The Lawyer's Last Stand
Author: Freya Atwood
Publisher: Cobalt Fairy LLC
Series: James Acker Legal Thriller Series Book 6
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"The Lawyer's Land Stand" by Freya Atwood

My Sentiments:

This is one series that keeps going on and on. We see from the other series how lawyer Jackes Acker is incarcerated for the killing of Michael Lee, and now he has decided to become his lawyer. How in the world will this come out for him? There will be many twists and turns, especially now that his brother Elliott has disappeared, and it seems like another murderer is involved in this mess. What will happen when James finds out about Michael Celeste...the brother of Gavin Celeste? This drama goes on and on. To follow this story, start with book one. Even reading this series, be prepared to want still to know more about what is going on with this story. Will James be able to defend himself not only when it looks like his brother may also be guilty of murder? This is one series you will not want to put down, leaving the reader wanting to know more.

Hooked On A Real One For The Holiday 2: The Finale Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 Book Excerpt:

"The Highly-Anticipated Sequel Has Arrived

Karlotta thought she had it all figured out when she decided to sell her house, move into a new place, and cut all ties with her winter fling, Real. But what happens when he slides back into her life a year later, looking to rekindle what they had? Can Karlotta keep her wits about herself? Or will she find herself tempted once again by her husband's homie? Find out in the final installment of this tantalizing African American romance."

Title: Hooked On A Real One For The Holiday 2: The Finale
Author: Jade Jones
Publisher: Jaded Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Hooked On A Real One For the Holiday 2" by Jade Jones

My Sentiments:

Hopefully, you have read book 1 of 'Hooked On A Real One' featuring Capone, Real, and Karlotta, now moving on to book 2, where we find things have happened, especially to a specific character. What will the change be for Karlotta and Real after not seeing each other for a year? To find the answers and more, pick up book 2 to see how this author brings it all together.

Hooked On A Real One For The Holiday Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 Book Excerpt:

"Karlotta thought she had it all when she married the handsome, hood-rich, charismatic Capone. He was everything she wanted in a husband and more, so when he proposed to her a few days before Christmas, she didn't think twice about saying yes. Karlotta knew he was the one for her…but that was before things quickly went from sugar to shit—and before she found herself in the arms of his homie, Real.

Look no further if you're looking for a steamy, holiday-themed tale of lust, love, and lies. This African American urban romance will leave you flipping pages until the last jaw-dropping scene."

Title: Hooked On A Real One For The Holiday
Author: Jade Jones
Publisher: Jaded Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Hooked On A Real One For The Holiday" by Jade Jones

My Sentiments:

Well, all that's left to say is sometimes friends will have one shaking their heads and saying wow, as it was for Capone and Real. Poor Karlotta seems to be caught right in the middle of it this drama by the time the story comes together with all of the twists and turns at the end of book 1. So if you, the reader, are in for 'abuse, cheating, and drinking'...this story is for you. Remember to continue with book 2 to see where this author will take us.

The Billionaire's Jewel Thief Kindle Edition by Amber Ghe

Book Excerpt:

"Capone was a notorious street-smart thief renowned for targeting some of the wealthiest people in society. But she had been ready to call it quits, even taking a celebratory vacation for her retirement. So despite building up quite a reputation for herself, nothing could have prepared her for the adventure she was about to embark on when she stole an ancient medallion from billionaire Roman Wade. Though they seemed worlds apart at first glance, fate soon revealed how their paths were meant to connect through something even more significant than any score ever made—love.  Until her sister came knocking on Capone's door with an offer too good to be true— a lick big enough to set them up for life— one, she couldn't turn down. Except for the 'mark' wasn't just any old person, it was Roman – a man she'd liked quite much. Still, the black diamond was too precious to pass up, even if its owner was someone special. What lay ahead may be much more complicated than the biggest heist imaginable…."

Title: The Billionaire's Jewel Thief
Author: Amber Ghe
Publisher: B. Love Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Billionaire's Jewel" by Amber Ghe

My Sentiments:

This story was quite a story that featured Capone and Carmen, who were thieves that stole from 'wealth people in society.' As Capone was thinking of stopping this career [ha ha], her sister Carmen came up with another idea that seemed to pull Capone back into this thievery. However, an ancient medallion and a black diamond seemed to question who owned this item. It looks like maybe two families were involved with this jewelry. Who were the original owners, and how did Roman Wade's family get it in the first place? This author gives the reader quite a story as twists and turns will be presented in this story on who owned these items in the first place. To find out what is going on in "The Billionaire's Jewel Thief," pick up this good read to see how it all comes out.

My Last Innocent Year A Novel by Daisy Alpert Florin

 
Book Excerpt:

"An incisive, deeply resonant debut novel about a nonconsensual sexual encounter that propels one woman's final semester at an elite New England college into controversy and chaos—and into an ill-advised affair with a married professor.

It's 1998, and Isabel Rosen, the only daughter of a Lower East Side appetizing store owner, has one semester left at Wilder College, a prestigious school in New Hampshire. Desperate to shed her working-class roots and mourning her mother's death four years earlier, Isabel has always felt like an outsider at Wilder. Still, in her final semester, she believes she has found her place—until a nonconsensual sexual encounter with one of the only other Jewish students on campus leaves her reeling.

Enter R. H. Connelly, a once-famous poet and Isabel's writing professor, a man with secrets of his own. Connelly makes Isabel feel seen, beautiful, and talented: the woman she longs to become. His belief in her ignites a belief in herself, and the two begin an affair that shakes the foundation of who Isabel thinks she is, for better and worse. As the lives of the adults around her slowly come apart, Isabel discovers that the line between youth and adulthood is less defined than she thought.

A coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the Clinton/Lewinsky scandal, Princess Diana, Daisy Alpert Florin's My Last Innocent Year is a timely and wise portrait of a young woman learning to trust her voice and move toward independence while recognizing the beauty and grit of where she came from."

Title: My Last Innocent Year
Author: Daisy Alpert Florin
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Narrator: Sarah Bierstock
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"My Last Innocent Year" by Alpert Florin

My Sentiments:

'My Last Innocent Year' was a subtle, exciting novel, with the story taken from the last college year,1990, of Isabel Rosen coming of age. Sarah Bierstock narrated this story, and she did an excellent job with this story. This story features "friendship, family issues, relationships, beginning a career, sexual assault, a forbidden affair, grief, and healing from trauma;" this book has a little bit of it all. Be ready for twists and turns all over the place that will keep you continuing to listen to the reader to the very end. I enjoyed how the story had a backdrop of the Clinton/Lewinsky scandal that was happening at this time in history, which added somewhat to the level of what was happening. Be ready for a good exciting read.

Thank you, Macmillan audio and NetGalley, for providing me with an audiobook arc in exchange for an honest review.

Title: My Last Innocent Year

Author: Daisy Alpert Florin
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Narrator: Sarah Bierstock
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"My Last Innocent Year" by Alpert Florin

My Sentiments:

'My Last Innocent Year' was a subtle, exciting novel, with the story taken from the last college year,1990, of Isabel Rosen coming of age. Sarah Bierstock narrated this story, and she did an excellent job with this story. This story features "friendship, family issues, relationships, beginning a career, sexual assault, a forbidden affair, grief, and healing from trauma;" this book has a little bit of it all. Be ready for twists and turns all over the place that will keep you continuing to listen to the reader to the very end. I enjoyed how the story had a backdrop of the Clinton/Lewinsky scandal that was happening at this time in history, which added somewhat to the level of what was happening. Be ready for a good exciting read.

Thank you, Macmillan audio and NetGalley, for providing me with an audiobook arc in exchange for an honest review.

nest review.