The Widow's Justice, by Ellis Keler

Book Excerpt:

"Lawyer Rachel Hart is determined to seek justice and honor the memory of her beloved spouse. But, her commitment is tested when she discovers his involvement in a top-secret project for the Department of Defense…

Now, every step she takes brings her closer to a scary reality where her every move is watched, and her very existence teeters on the brink of a sinister abyss…

The Widow's Justice is an exciting blood-pumping legal thriller written by Ellis Keler and published by Cobalt Fairy.

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

Title  The Widow's Justice

Author:  Ellis Keler

Publisher: Cobalt Fairy LLC

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"The Widow's Justice" by Ellis Keler

My Sentiments:  

'Widow's Justice' was a good read of what Lawyer Rachel  Hart had to do to get the supposed 'accidental death' of her husband Alex exposed. Rachel had to deal with some horrible people and go through a lot, but in the end, will she be able to find out who and what caused her husband's death? This is where you must pick up this good read to see how far off the rail she will go to make that happen. The story had some scary characters that would keep your attention while you kept turning the pages to see what was next for Rachel. The extended epilogue was interesting in just how far Rachel's friends would go for her to make her have an even happier life.

In The Name of Justice by Freya Atwood

Book Excerpt:

When a bomb detonates in a coffee shop and kills a waitress named Lily, Maya Jones vows to seek out the truth. Despite mounting evidence that points to Lily's father as the culprit, Maya takes on the case, determined to clear his name. But her husband warns her that her client is guilty beyond doubt. When she finally uncovers the truth, it's a revelation neither she nor her loved ones had anticipated, leaving her shaken to the core…

Title: In The Name of Justice
Author: Freya Atwood
Publisher: Cobalt Fairy LLC
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"In The Name of Justice" by Freya Atwood

My Sentiments:

'The Name of Justice' was quite an intriguing legal thriller with some fascinating characters that help keep one's interest in the read. With all the 'courtroom drama, action, intrigue, deception, and suspense,' these lawyers revealed it so well to the reader. It was a case of Maya switched because she saw what item Jack had in his possession of that jacket, and she changed her mind about him being innocent.

Only Love Can Hurt Like This by Paige Toon

 Book Excerpt:

"n the spirit of Colleen Hoover and Jojo Moyes's Me Before You, an unforgettable and heartbreaking love story with an earth-shattering secret at its core that asks the question: is love worth risking everything for?

An earth-shattering secret. A life-changing love story.

When Wren realizes her fiancé is in love with someone else, she thinks her heart will never recover.

On the other side of the world, Anders lost his wife four years ago and still struggles to move on.

Wren hopes spending the summer with her dad and step-family on their Indiana farm will help her heal. She and Anders cross paths there amid the cornfields and fireflies, and their worlds are turned upside-down again.

But Wren doesn't know that Anders is harboring a secret, and if he acts on his feelings for Wren, it will have a severe fallout for everyone. Walking away would hurt Wren more than she could imagine. But, knowing the truth, how can she possibly stay?"

Title:  Only Love Can Hurt Like This

Author:  Paige Toon

Publisher:  G.P. Putnam's Sons

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Only Love Can Hurt Like This" by Paige Toon

My Sentiments: 

'Only Love Can Hurt Like This' was a good read if the child has gone through a divorce or even with a step-parent, as it was for Wren. The story was inspiring as it went through issues with family, the farm, love, grief, the airstream, twists, turns, and, let's not leave out, the well-developed characters. The story will also give one a 'heartbreaking' story before the end.  

Thank you, NetGalley, for eARC in exchange for an honest review.

 

The Pastor's Admin Kindle Edition by Lakisha Johnson

 Book Excerpt:

"**DISCLAIMER** This is Christian FICTION, including some sex scenes and language. ***

Daphne' Dee' Gary used to love being an admin … until Joseph Thornton.

She has been his administrative assistant for ten years, and each year, she has to decide whether it will be his secrets or her sanity.

And the choice is beginning to take a toll.

Joseph is the founder and pastor of Assembly of God Christian Center, and he is, hell, there are so many words Daphne can use to describe him, but none are good. He does things without thinking of the consequence because he knows Dee will be there to bail him out. She has to because … it's her job, right?

A job she has been questioning lately.

Daphne knows life can be challenging, and flesh will sometimes win, but when she has to choose between HIS SECRETS or HER SANITY, this time, will she remain The Pastor's Admin?"

Title: The Pastor's Admin
Author: Lakisha Johnson
Publisher: Twins Write 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Pastor's Admin" by Lakisha Johnson

My Sentiments:

'The Pastor's Admin' was quite some read where this Pastor had severe problems, a loving wife, and one heck of a good administrator that helped things go as smoothly as she could. But with all of that... things got out of hand, and all that is left to say... this is one read you will have to pick up and see how well this author brings it all out by the end. The ending was quite a shocker because I didn't see that one coming; however, with the way, things were going for this Pastor... I wasn't surprised because what is hidden in the dark will come to light.

Bitter Bestfriend 2: The Sins Of My Twin...Blood Isn't Always Thicker Than Water Kindle Edition by Niki Jilvontae

Book Excerpt:

"Blood is supposedly a bond that surpasses any difficulties the world can throw! However, life can often show you that Blood isn't thicker than water and can be dirtier than mud. This is the reality for seventeen-year-old Anacia Baptiste. Born an identical twin to sister Nadia, Anacia's parents Cameal and Daniel Baptiste, expected their beautiful little baby to have a close relationship with the sister who shared the same face. However, they quickly realized that wasn't true as the girls grew and a volatile relationship brewed. Jealous and tired of her seemingly perfect twin, Nadia began to rebel and separate herself at an early age. As time went on, she attributed everything horrible in her life to her sister and began a quest to rid herself of the duplicate of herself. Rebellious, angry, and out of control, Nadia does everything she can to rid herself of Anacia and become the beloved twin. Betrayal, lies, heartache, jail time, and even murder ensues once Nadia feels nothing else will work. Finally, she inadvertently awakens a beast in her twin while trying to separate herself, and a dangerous game of back-and-forth begins. Soon that blood bond is tested as the girls lick for lick and leave a trail of hurt, pain, and death to all in their path. Come along on this turbulent thrill ride and discover if the girl's relationship can survive and if Blood Really is Thicker Than Water..."

Title: Bitter Bestfriends 2: The Sins Of My Twin...Blood Isn't Always Thicer Tan Water
Author: Niki Jilvontae
Publisher: N.J. March 19th
Series: Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Bitter Bestfriends 2" by Niki Jilvontae

My Sentiments:

'Bitter Bestfriend 2' was quite a read about two sisters who were twins [Anaci and Nadia], where one seemed to hate the other, which was mainly due to jealousy. This was a real read of some drama off the rail, definitely on a roller-coaster ride, leaving the reader shaking their head and saying wow! But, then, that ending was quite a turnaround, and I will stop here and say, pick this read up for an emotional drama story with a surprising ending.

A Royal Baby: A Christian, Forbidden Marriage, Pregnancy Romance (Born Royal Series Book 2) Kindle Edition by JaNae Griffin

 Book Excerpt:

"Keeping secrets is stressful, but hiding the man in my life is worth the risk. I'm the princess of Merick, hiding my marriage to a man I'm head-over-heels in love with. But, unfortunately, he's from America and has yet to learn of my title.

We're building a life together that can't be sustained in secrecy. I know this, but with each day that passes, I enjoy my alias even more, putting off revealing my identity. Time is running out. My secrets are building.

Our life is entangling more and more. I love every minute with Landon, but my plan is falling apart in front of me. Keeping my husband and our life together requires all my effort, and I fear losing him."

Title:  A Royal Baby: A Christian, Forbidden Marriage, Pregnancy

Author:  JaNae Griffin

Publisher:  J. G.  

Series:  Born Royal Series Book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"A Royal Baby" by JaNae Griffin

My Sentiments: 

This second series of 'Born Royal' was indeed a good read and answered many questions that needed to be answered from book 1, which featured Princess Catherine and Landon. All of the characters were well-developed, which made the storyline complete. It was good to see that Catherine finally had to tell the truth about what was happening to her...as her secrets and lies began to come out right and left. If nothing else, Catherine's sickness was coming out, and then that horrible accident that took a life made this story very interesting, as one will be turning the pages to see what was coming next.  

Be ready for a good love story as this author brings in the life of a princess who had certain areas showing her 'Duty, Country, personal priorities and goal that she intended to have in her life.'  Did she get them? You must pick up book 2 to see how well this author brings it all together for the reader.

A Royal Secret: Forbidden Love, Christian Romance (Born Royal Series Book 1) Kindle Edition by JaNae Griffin

 Book Excerpt:

"Previously published as If I Fall for You by JaNae Griffin

Catherine's story takes place in books one and two, and the stories of her cousin and children start in book three. Books 3-6 are stand-alone novels with the family saga laced throughout the series.
Catherine is the princess of Merrick. She stumbles into an American while sneaking out of the palace.

Landon is visiting her country, only looking for love once he meets a sophisticated woman he can't stop thinking about.

Her father, the king, despises Americans; she falls in love with one another and hides her relationship and identity, taking her freedom to a new level.

One secret becomes a waterfall of lies, and Catherine struggles to keep up with her deception to ensconce her true identity. Keeping her parallel worlds separate takes all her ingenuity, but the reward is worth the effort. Life as the princess of Merrick can be challenging. But, life as a commoner, dating the man of her dreams . . . is far better!"

Title:  A Royal Secret:  Forbidden Love, Christian Romance

Author:  JaNae Griffin

Publisher:  J.G. 

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Four

Review:

"A Royal Secret:  Forbidden Love, Christian Romance" by JaNae Griffin

My Sentiments:  

'A Royal Secret: Forbidden Love' was quite a story about 'Catherine, the princess of Merick and stumbles into an American while sneaking out of the palace.'  Why did she do this? Well, it seems like she wanted a 'normal' life, but how could she think of this in the situation that she was a princess? Yes, these two do get together; however, through lies and deceit for months, what would one expect of this story when all the lies start coming out? I'm still determining whom I feel sorrier for...Catherine or Landon. It was hard to believe why he didn't ask more questions about Catherine. They may have loved each other, but much more should have been considered in this hold situation. To get more of the story, the reader will have to go on to the next...Born Royal Series Book 2 to get the rest of the story.

Torn Between Passion and Payback: A Standalone Novel Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 Book Excerpt:

"If one man could have it all, Lucci would fit the description. He has achieved every dream imaginable with a Fortune 500 company to his name, a thriving non-profit under his patronage, a beautiful and devoted wife, and millions of dollars at his disposal. But for all he has been able to obtain in life, Lucci is still not content; the desire for more never ceases. His obsession with attractive women and lack of restraint leads him straight into the arms of Nneoma.

Lucci is immediately taken by her sultry aura and compelling ways. She's a far cry from his wife, driving an undiscovered passion within him that he'd never felt before. The fact that Nneoma isn't just after his finances like the typical mistress does provide some comfort, but he's still wary of her intentions. He soon finds out she's after something other than money – something that comes with a price tag even too high for someone in Lucci's tax bracket.

"Torn Between Passion & Payback" is an urban psychological thriller that'll immerse you in a world of wealth, intrigue, romance, and revenge."

Title: Torn Between Passion and Payback
Author: Jade Jones
Publisher: Jaded Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Torn Between Passion and Payback" by Jade Jones

My Sentiments:

All I can say about 'Torn Between Passion and Payback' was that this author knew how to draw the reader into the read, especially by giving us a heck of an ending that I am sure no one saw coming.

The story shows how one can feel about situations and draws one into drastic measures that seal the case as it did for Genie, who had been through so much with her husband of hers, Lucci. But, again, that's all I want to say; other than picking this good read-up, the reader will understand what Genie went through being married to Lucci.

Sins of Thy Mother 3 Kindle Edition by Niki Jilvontae

 Book Excerpt:

"The emotional horror ride for Lewis's children continues in this turbulent trilogy. After the unthinkable threatens to break the strong bond between the siblings, Tisha is left alone to face more pain and loss at the hands of her mother. Tired of being punished for her mother's sins, she transforms into someone almost as hateful. With Terricka right by her side as usual, the sisters devise a plan to rid the world of the evil they call mother. Come on this bloody, drama-filled rollercoaster ride and find out if the Lewis children can finally break the curse and be free of the Sins of Thy Mother!"

Title: Sins of Thy Mother 3
Author: Niki Jilvontae
Publisher: N.J.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Sins of Thy Mother 3" by Niki Jilvontae

My Sentiments:

'Sins of They Mother 3' was quite a series that will keep the reader turning the pages to see what this mother, Denise, will do next. With all that has gone on in this family, especially the treatment of Denise's children [Tisha, Terricka, and Shamel], well, what happened with her is not shocking. Yes, this was quite an emotional read that will leave one shaking their heads and saying wow, what a story.

Twisted Faith of a Side Bitch Memphis Kindle Edition by Niki Jilvontae

 Book Excerpt:

"Anastasia Monrow, also known as Tasia or Tasty by some, is a 23-year-old vixen who loves the finer things in life and other women's men to give her. In a world filled with expensive clothes, wads of cash, secret sex dates, and ambitious, vindictive sideline bitches, Tasia reigns supreme. She is the queen bitch in Memphis who usually gets exactly what she wants without asking. Tasia and her best friend, Diamond, live a life of luxury, charging men for their time and reaping all the rewards in the form of steady cash flows from the married men and baby daddies they trick. Everything seems to be going good until Tasia begins to fall for one of her jaunts named Jermaine. Once Tasia's feelings get involved, she finds herself in a whirlwind of sex, lies, betrayal, and murder. Is Tasia destined for a horrible, brutal fate at the hands of one of the men she tricks for money? Or will the Twisted Faith of this side bitch from Memphis give her the happy life she always wanted?"

Title: Twisted Faith of a Side Bitch Memphis
Author: Niki Jilvontae
Publisher: N.J.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Twisted Faith of a Side Bitch Memphis" by Niki Jilvontae

My Sentiments:

As I read through 'Twisted Faith of a Side Bitch' I felt sorry for the main character Anastasia [Tasia] Morrow, because it seems like no matter how she turned, bad luck was on her side through all the twists and turns she went through trying to get love. And what was so sad about it was that love was right before her, but she didn't seem to see it until the end. The read will make you think twice about just who is one's friend. Was Tasia happy after all the revenge she got after everything she went through? Be ready for a read of drama and deceit all over the place. Will Tasia finally get the love she so desperately wanted? Pick up this novel to see how this author brings it all out at the end to the reader. It will be a story to remember!

Triggered: A Potomac Falls Novella (A Potomac Falls Holiday Shorts Book 3) Kindle Edition by K.L. Hall

Book Excerpt:

"Knight Alexander is still mine. He just doesn't know it yet.

He might have gotten away from The Falls and started over, but I haven't forgotten what he did… or forgiven him.
He thinks he can escape the truth but can't hide forever.

Once upon a time, he swore to protect my heart. Now, who's going to protect him from me?
If he thinks he's seen the worst of me, he's dead wrong.
After all, everyone knows break-ups don't often go smoothly."

Title: Triggered: A Potomac Falls Novella
Author: K.L. Hall
Publisher: K.L. Hall Productions
Series: A Potomac Falls Holiday Shorts Book 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Triggered: A Potomac Falls Novella" by K. L. Hall

My Sentiments:

'Triggered' was quite a read bringing in the mystery, thriller, and suspense of a good short read. What will happen when two brothers and two girlfriends come together where nothing is left from the story but a lot of 'craziness, infidelity, and murder?' By the end of the road, no one is innocent in this super messy plot twist. The ending will leave the reader seeing that karma will get you one way or the other in the end.

Doctor, Please: Doctors of Eastport General Kindle Edition by Celeste Granger

 Book Excerpt:

"Dr. Felix Rush Jr., newly appointed Director of Emergency Services, has a lot on his plate. Not only is he getting acclimated to a new job, but he is also searching for a new place to live. He most recently returned to Rhode Island to take on the new position at Eastport General, and he returned home to live with his parents. Although he loves them desperately, living back home cramps his bachelor lifestyle, one he plans on expanding now that he is on new turf.

Peyton Hall is the top realtor in Eastport and the person Felix contacted to help him find the home of his dreams. Peyton is all business, always striving to improve herself, even if it means neglecting love. Peyton's priorities are in check until she encounters Felix. Then, she goes against her better judgment and agrees to go out with him.

Despite their efforts to remain professional, unexpected sparks flew, igniting intrigue and excitement neither could quell. Their burgeoning feelings derailed both plans, yet, their fervent desire remained unfurled. Their requited love was tested when Felix's skills were tested. They both learned that love conquers all."

Title: Doctor, Please: Doctors of Eastport General
Author: Celeste Granger
Publisher: C. G.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Doctor, Please: Doctors of Eastport General" by Celeste Granger

My Sentiments:

You have come to the right place if you want a beautiful, sweet romance story. The author gives the readers a quick read of what happens when Dr. Felix Rush finds a realtor, and after all, is said and done, they become lovers. This was one of those reads where the two main characters were made for each other.

Dear John (The Birthday Gift—Book 2) Kindle Edition by Betty Collier

 Book Excerpt:

"Dear John is an honoree in the 2023 Book Excellence Awards, a global celebration of literary excellence.

This is a captivating story of grace, love, forgiveness, and redemption. You will find answers embedded within these pages if you need help with any of these.

John Batista killed a man, but he doesn't remember doing it. All he knows is he's back home in Israel with his loving wife instead of across the world in Los Angeles. He has a strong inkling that something was amiss during his UK layover. As the gritty reality unfolds and his crime is revealed, John's past, present, and future clash and fall apart. Through it all, he discovers grace like a river, the waters becoming a balm to his fractured mind, making him whole again.

Amid their greatest tragedy, he and his wife discover a redemption story they never thought they needed. It all starts with a priceless trinket that brings death and a letter from a widow that brings John abundant life."

Title:  Dear John

Author:  Betty Collier

Publisher:   John316 Global Publishing 

Series:  The Birthday Gift -  Book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

'Dear John' by Betty Collier

My Sentiments:  

'Dear John' was a captivating 'story of grace,  hope, faith, love, forgiveness, inspirational, and redemption.'  If you choose to read this story, book 2, please read 'The Birthday Gift' book series one first to better understand what happened earlier. The author does an excellent job of bringing the two stories together.

The story will have one turning the pages till the end to see how well this author brings forth an excellent and even sadness... but in all, a good story of saving one's soul. Be ready for a story that will bring in many twists before it ends.   I enjoyed how this story brought out the scripture John 3: 16, which was crucial in understanding that particular symbol that was vital to the story.