Secret Law by Ellis Keler

 Book Excerpt:

"When a friend of his is brutally murdered, Alex's world is shattered. But the chaos intensifies when Madison Scott, the victim's secretary, becomes the prime suspect.

Reluctant to defend Madison, Alex's resolve falters as George, his best friend, pleads for help. George's desperation is evident as he unveils a dark secret that could unravel their lives if Alex declines the case. 

As suspicions grow and old wounds reopen, Alex races against time to unravel the web of lies and protect what matters most. But in a world where justice hangs in the balance, will he emerge victorious, or will the shadows of his past finally catch up, shattering everything he holds dear?"

Title: Secret Law
Author: Ellis Keler
Publisher: Cobalt Fairy
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
'Secret Law' by Ellis Keler

My Perception:

'Secret Law' was quite a read of how attorney Alex Peterson is put through the mill with worrying about his son Lucas, who is under his ex-wife's care, and then a friend, Franklin Edwards, has been murdered. But it all gets even stranger when the victim's secretary, Madison Scott, calls for him to defend her, George, Alex's best friend. Now, what was going on with this situation? What secret was out there that seemed to be coming out?

Along with everything else in Alex's life, what was happening with Alex's ex-wife and their son Lucas? Why was Alex concerned about this situation?

The reader must pick up this good read to see how the author reveals everything. You will keep turning the pages to find out what is going on with this Madison woman and who else was involved in this murder as Alex 'unravels the web of lies and protects what matters most.' By the end, will Alex be able to keep his past a secret? The epilogue was quite interesting in what comes out for the story of 'Silent Law.'

"Secret Law" will be a good read.

 

Her Exception 3: A Fake Relationship Romance (The Office Series) Kindle Edition by B. Love

 Book Excerpt:

"Depending on who you ask, Jeremy Phoenix is either the hero or villain in their story. Growing up privileged did not create an easy life for the named partners at Hunter, Phoenix, Genesis, and Prime. He's gotten almost everything he's ever wanted in life—except his father's unconditional love and acceptance and the position of managing partner at his prestigious law firm. That will change in months… if he can find a wife.

Driven, ambitious, and intelligent are three words often used to describe Maritza Amaretto. When she and her sister join Hunter, Phoenix, Genesis, and Prime, Maritza has only one goal: to advance her stellar career. An unexpected kiss and request for her services as girlfriend for a day turn into an offer she can't refuse—a year of her life as Jeremy's fake wife in exchange for career advancement that both she and her sister deserve.

When the line between fake and real gets blurred, Jeremy and Maritza battle their pasts for a chance at a future together and hope the choices they make in the present won't ruin their careers… and the careers of others.

Title:  Her Exception 3:  A Fake Relationship Romance

Author:  B. Love

Publisher:  Prolific Pen Pusher 

Series:  The Office Series Book 3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Her Exception 3" by B. Love  

My Thoughts:  

"Her Exception 3" was a good love story about a fake-to-real relationship. What will Jeremy do when he is pushed to get a wife? Now, what better than a fake one? How does he make this happen? This all starts with his parents wanting him to get a wife before he is supposed to take over the business [HGP2]. But is this really why his father wants Jeremy to get married?  

A lot happens in this story, so you must keep up with this good read. What problem was happening with Jremey's parents that caused so many problems for their children? By the end, the reader will have a complete story of how this will turn out for Jeremy and Maritza. Will this fake become real?

Her Exception: An Enemies to Lovers Romance (The Office Series Book 1) Kindle Edition by B. Love

 Book Excerpt:

"Shalom Daniels has everything she wants outside of marriage and kids. Her career and personal relationships are flourishing, except for the relationship that matters most—one with a man dedicated to cherishing and protecting her heart. Fresh out of a relationship with an almost perfect man, Shalom begins to question if her boundaries and standards are too high or if it simply isn't her time for her happily ever after.

Mecca Smith has everything he wants in life outside of marriage and kids. He's on track to start practicing the niche law he's always wanted to, and his relationships with friends and family are perfect. Content with his current friend with benefits, Mecca isn't looking for love when his ex, Shalom, is forced back into his life—and it's a good thing, too, because they hate each other.

What was once a high school love that had the potential to last forever was ended with a letter, no contact, and heartbreak. They say there's a thin line between love and hate. When Mecca's most significant case to date requires Shalom's expertise, will they be able to put their hate for each other aside, or will they learn just how thin that line can be?"

Title: Her Exception: An Enemies to Lovers
Author: B. Love
Publisher: Prolific Pen Pusher
Series: The Office Series Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Her Exception: An Enemies to Lovers Romance" by B. Love

My Thoughts:

This story was quite enjoyable, especially about how Mecca and Shalom had been dating in HS, but when Shalom became pregnant, it seemed like someone decided to end this for them. Two letters are passed between the two that left terrible feelings for Mecca and Shalom. What will happen when these two have to work together? After a series of conversations, they discover that neither one wrote the letters to the other. Well, who had done this and why? This was quite a mess due to all the problems, but I wasn't surprised who had done this lousy deed to these two youngsters. They may have thought they were doing the right things, but was it?

To find out how it all comes out, you must pick 'Her Exception' to see how well this author brings it all out.

The Upper Room (A Mama Ruby) Kindle Edition by Mary Monroe

 Book Excerpt:

"The "magnificent, funny, and terrifying" debut novel from the New York Times bestselling author of God Don't Like Ugly (The San Francisco Chronicle). 

Mama Ruby's known for taking things that aren't rightfully hers, like her best friend's stillborn infant, whom she brought back to life and christened Maureen. She's also rumored to have done away with her husband. Some fear her, and others try their best to avoid her. But Mama Ruby doesn't pay them any mind. Not when she's got the one gift God gave her—her precious baby girl.
 
But growing up with a mama like Ruby is enough to make any half-sane girl wish for something else. And when Maureen gets the chance to explore the "real" world, you can bet she's going to take it . . . and run like hell."

Title: The Upper Room
Author: Mary Monroe
Publisher: Dafina
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"The Upper Room" by Mary Monroe

My Thoughts:

'The Upper Room' was decent but sad in many chapters. Mama Rudy was one dramatic character that kept me shaking my head and wondering why she did all the horrible things she did. Besides Maama Rudy being an obese person, she was a person with alcoholism and a serial killer who seemed to be able to get away with all of it. But what got my attention was that she claimed to be religious, and people seemed to go with her program. I did laugh at some of Mama Rudy's acts, but not like many of them, and how she got through all of the things she did was quite a wonder to me. This author put it out there, leaving me to say, wow, all over the place.

 

Black Widow: A Standalone Novel Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 Book Excerpt:

"Dive into the seductive depths of a world where beauty masks danger and secrets lurk in every shadow.

High-fashion model Marlowe is the embodiment of beauty and mystery. But beneath the glamorous façade lies a turbulent past, scarred by the trauma of an abusive father and ensnared in the deadly grip of addiction.

Amidst the chaos of her unraveling life, Marlowe's chance encounter with Casper, a captivating and enigmatic bad boy, ignites a spark of unexpected passion. But Casper is no ordinary lover; he exudes a magnetic allure and an irresistible power that could either elevate Marlowe to the pinnacle of love or plunge her into the abyss of despair.

As Marlowe navigates the treacherous waters of her past and the uncertain future with Casper, the lines between love and obsession blur, leading her on a perilous journey of self-discovery and redemption. Murder, mystery, and unexpected love intertwine in this gripping psychological thriller, where every twist and turn unravels a new layer of deception and desire. Will Marlowe succumb to the darkness that threatens to consume her, or will she find the strength to break free and embrace the light of true love?"

Title: Black Widow
Author: Jade Jones
Publisher: Jaded Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Black Widow" by Jade Jones

My Perception:

'Black Widow' brought us a model named Marlowe, who had great grit when caring for certain things. After being raised by an abusive father, she was determined not to let another man get away with hurting a woman, especially after what he had done to her mother.

When it looked like all was going well for Marlowe, she met up with Casper and began to enjoy his company while he did hers. However, what will happen when Casper discovers what Marlowe has been doing to these men?

This will be quite a read. Murder, mystery, and unexpected love are intertwined in this gripping psychological thriller, with twists and turns everywhere. Be ready for a read that will keep you turning the pages as you keep up with this Black Widow, Casper. There is someone else who will come out all front and center, and I will stop here and say wow! However, you must pick up this good read to see who that was, as the author brings it out very well.

The ending will keep one interested in this story, especially how it turns out.

For Richer and For Poorer: What Did You Vow? Kindle Edition by Lakisha Johnson

 Book Excerpt:

"Imagine making a vow you're now being tested to keep.

Reginald and Georgia Harden have been enjoying their life together. Things have been great, from dating to proposal to marriage, designing and building their dream home, and finding out they're having a baby.

Until Reginald loses his job and his 401k savings on the same day.

Now, the happy life they've been creating is overshadowed by arguing, anger, debt, and misplaced blame.

In Book 3 of the What Did You Vow Series, find out if this marriage survives when part of their promise, "For Richer and For Poorer," is tested.

Title: For Richer and For Poorer: What Did You Vow?
Author: Lakisha Johnson
Publisher: Twins Write 2
Series: What Did You Vow Mini Series: Book 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"For Richer ad For Poorer: What Did You Vow? by Lakisha Johnson

My Thoughts:

This was my favorite of the three series in What Did You Vow that dealt so well with the rich and the poor. It was hard to see how Georgia treated her husband, Reginald, but as you read, you will understand why she acted the way she did. It was good that Georgia finally listened to her friend and got the help she needed with her issues. Yes, Georgia needed therapy, and it was so good when she finally realized she needed help with how she acted. Had a lot of this come from the way she had been raised as a child after her father died? This story is very thought-provoking in how it all comes out for this couple. Now, I wonder if many of us need help in how our world is going, especially in the title 'For Richer and For Poorer: What Did You Vow?' The author did an excellent job of bringing the readers a good read that many can relate to.

For Better and For Worse: What Did You Vow? Kindle Edition by Lakisha Johnson

 Book Excerpt:

"Yolanda and Leland Martin have been married for over eleven years. For the past ten, things have been great. She's thriving in ministry and her role as a Professor at McHarry Theology, while Leland is enjoying his position at the Art Consortium.

Until things suddenly change for the worse.

No matter how much Yolanda tries to talk to her husband, she hits a brick wall. Fed up and tired, she confronts him and gets the shock of her life.

Now left to deal with the aftermath, she has to decide if this is the FOR BETTER AND WORSE she vowed or if she should simply bow out gracefully.

In Book 2 of the What Did You Vow Mini-Series, follow Leland and Yolanda's journey to see if they'll keep the vow... for better and for worse."

Title: For Better and For Worse: what Did You Vow?
Author: Lakisha Johnson
Publisher: Twins Write 2
Series: What Did You Vow Mini Series: Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"For Better and For Worse: What Did You Vow?" By Lakisha Johnson

My Thoughts:

This author gave us quite an excellent read of Yolanda and Leland. They had been married for over eleven years, but Yolanda knew something was wrong for the past six months. When she asked her husband what was going on, Leland said nothing. However, as things began to come out, Yolanda was shocked. This is when: 'For Better and For Worse' comes out. Will they be able to keep the vow after all is said and done?

I don't want to tell too much of the story. I would like you to read this good book by this author. It will give you something to think about long after the read.

The Fatal Defence: An Ethan Hunter Legal Thriller (Ethan Hunter legal thriller series Book 2) Kindle Edition by Freya Atwood

 Book Excerpt:

"Amid the mystery of his wife's death, lawyer Ethan Hunter regains his purpose after a courtroom triumph. But fate has other plans...

Forced by his boss to re-enter the legal fray, he takes on a new case: a murder using the new drug that haunts the city. And although the accused is a charismatic gentleman, dark lies lie beneath the surface...

Ethan is confronted with a gut-wrenching revelation as he doggedly pursues justice for his client. Sometimes, you're fighting for the wrong person..."

Title:  The Fatal Defence

Author: Freya Atwood

Publisher: Cobalt Fairy LLC 

Series:  Ethan Hunter Legal Thriller Series Book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"The Fatal Defence" by Freya Atwood

My Thoughts:  

'The Fatal Defense' was quite a riveting legal thriller. Lawyer Ethan Hunter has taken on a case involving Gabriel, who has supposedly spiked this friend's drink. Be really for plenty of courtroom drama and twists and turns in this case, where, at times, Ethan didn't know whether to believe his client. Who was this, Gabriel Harris? To find out who he really is, you must pick up this novel and see how this author brings it all out. It will be an exciting ending, especially the extended epilogue that will lead one to think there will be more to this ending. 

Sisters with a Side of Greens Audible Logo Audible Audiobook – Unabridged Michelle Stimpson (Author), Susan Spain (Narrator)

 Book Excerpt:

"From award-winning author Michelle Stimpson: a Southern story of sisterhood and second chances

Many years ago, Rose Tillman gave her sister, Marvina Dewberry, forty dollars to register a business where they would piggyback on their mother's fantastic spice mixture to make their fortune in fried chicken and other Southern comfort foods. Marvina used that forty dollars for a different reason, and the business never got off the ground. It was just forty dollars, but that decision set the course of their lives. Now Rose has retired from a career at the post office and realizes she wants a second shot at her dreams, but she'll have to go through her sister to get that chance..."

Title:  Sisters with a Side of Greens

Author:  Michelle Stimpson

Narrator:  Susan Spain

Audible Logo Audible Audiobook

Reviewed by:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Sisters with a Side of Greens" by Michelle Stimpson

My Thoughts:

'Sisters with a Side of Greens' is a well-written book that sometimes makes readers laugh and even tear up. From the read, one can see how the read brought out what happened between these two sisters, Rose and Marvina, which made them act as they did toward one another. And seeing how their mother brought on a lot of anger between the two girls had me shaking my head.  

With Rose wanting her mom's recipe for this unique spice and only her sister Marvina being able to give it to her, we can see how Rose had no choice but to confront her sister about it. The story is mainly about what will happen with this. Also, will these sisters be able to finally talk and see what the problem was that caused all this rip with them not being able to get along over the years? There will be a lot going on in this story, and one will find out about these two sisters. Their lifestyle, death in the family, husbands, exes, children...[dead and alive], and even helping a young girl with what was going on in her life.  

Be ready for a soulful read that will keep you turning the pages to see what is next for these two sisters and a few other interesting characters from the minister, ex, and others.

I loved the ending, especially how they [the sisters] came up with the appropriate name for this unique seasoning. Were these sisters now getting along? 

If you are looking for a story about family, southern home cooking, exciting side characters, and, above all, a Spice that only one person had..then you have come to the right place to get it all.  

To get all of the story, you must pick up 'Sisters with a Side of Greens' to see how well this author tells it all to the reader.

Yes, I recommend this novel to you.

  

Thug 2: The Finale Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 Book Excerpt:

"In the heart of Harborhaven, a city with a dark underbelly, Mega, a former professional kidnapper, strives for redemption. When Livia, a strong-willed teacher, enters Mega's life, their connection becomes a beacon of hope. Join them on their journey of healing, trust, and growth as they confront their turbulent pasts and strive for a brighter future. Along the way, they discover the power of forgiveness, love, and second chances.

As secrets unravel and decisions are made, "THUG" explores the complexities of romance, the pursuit of redemption, and the transformative power of love in the face of adversity."

Title:  Thug 2:  The Finale

Author:  Jade Jones

Publisher:  Jaded Publications 

Series:  Thug 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

'Thug 2:  The Finale' by Jade Jones

The Finale:

'Thug 2: The Finale' was a good ending in how the story finally turned out. If Livia could forgive Mega for the part he played in the story, well, ok, giving the story a good ending. The title definitely was a good name for both of these titles: Thug: A Ghetto Love Story and Thug 2:  The Finale.    

THUG: A Ghetto Love Story Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 Book Excerpt:

"In the urban labyrinth of love, THUG: A Ghetto Romance unravels a tale where Tenderness, Heartache, Understanding, and Growth redefine the acronym THUG. Livia Darling, a compassionate elementary school teacher, has her path intertwined with Mega, a mysterious man with a captivating but unconventional life who throws them both into a world of moral conflicts.

As their connection deepens, layers of Mega's character emerge, prompting questions of trust. THUG invites readers to witness the transformative power of love, redemption, and the capacity for change. Will love conquer the barriers of circumstance in this gritty urban romance, or will the shadows of the past prove insurmountable?"

Title: Thug: A Ghetto Love Story
Author: Jade Jones
Publisher: Jaded Publications
Series: The Finale
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
'Thug' by Jade Jones

My Thoughts:

'Thug' is a story that will keep readers turning the pages to see what happens next, with all of the secrets, lies, and deceit in this story.

With characters like Oscar, Linda, Knickles, and Livia, wow is all I have to say. You will need part two to get the rest of this twisted story.

Love Lifted me Above my Flaws: A Christian Romance Novel (Faith.Flaws & All Book 5) Kindle Edition by Taretha Jones

 Book Excerpt:

"Nobody's perfect; everybody has a flaw or two, right? Yes, Olivia Johnson knows this all too well, but at the same time, she knows that some people carry more burdensome flaws than others. Because Olivia has ADHD and is nowhere near as quick-thinking as her smart-as-she-wanna-be sister, Lyric, Olivia understands this fact more so than most. However, being a woman of faith, Olivia also wholeheartedly believes that God never puts more on a person than they can bear. So, with the help and love of her closest friends and family members—well, most of them—twenty-something- Olivia has made molehills out of the mountains that have stood in her way in life. What Olivia wants most is the career and husband of her dreams. With God's love and a pinch of faith, maybe she'll end up with both!"

Title: Love Lifted Me Above My Flaws
Author: Teretha Jones
Publisher: Firstman Publications
Series: Faith, Flaws & All & All Book 5
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Loved Lifted Me Above My Flaws" by Taretha Jones

My Thoughts:

'Love Lifted Me Above My Flaws' was indeed a beautiful story. The story showed how God can work in one's life, as it did for Olivia, who had ADHD and a learning disability. But as you read this remarkable story, one can see how God gave her just what she needed and at the time she needed it. I loved how Olivia put God first in her life, and He was always there for her, helping her with the many situations she had to go through. Ultimately, God delivered to her just what she had always wanted. To get all this story, you must pick up the excellent novel this author gives the reader.

The Secrets We Keep Kindle Edition by Sheena Binkley

 Book Excerpt:

"The Baptiste sisters, Chante, Darla, and Whitney, all have their own lives to live, but there's one secret that the three have been keeping from everyone since the night their father disappeared. Can the three keep their secret hidden, or will they be exposed for the crime they committed?

Chante
the oldest of the Baptiste sisters. She was considered the mother figure and has protected Darla and Whitney since their mother passed away ten years ago. While she has a family, she constantly bails out her sisters, which strains her marriage to DeMarcus. But what could potentially tear her marriage apart is the secret she's been harboring from DeMarcus. She figures it's time to tell him, but she knows it'll cause a rift with her sisters. Will she be able to keep her marriage together while protecting her sisters?

Darla
Darla is the middle sister but has always been the rebellious one. She doesn't listen to anyone, which always puts her in crazy situations. When her sisters think she has things under control and is living an everyday life, she surprises them by doing something stupid. She also changes the men in her life, which has been frowned upon by her sisters, especially Chante. When she gets into a freak accident with a handsome stranger, she sees him as a potential new man in her life, but he could be more than what she bargained for. Will this be another incident that her sisters will have to bail her out of, or will she be able to handle what's in store for her?

Whitney
Whitney is the youngest sister and always had a good head on her shoulders. She promised her mom that she would achieve the goals set out for her, so she intends to make do with it by becoming Marcy's newest mayor. She's also planning her wedding to her college sweetheart, Garrett. But someone in her camp could also be her worst enemy, who will do anything to see her, along with her sisters, falter. Could Whitney not only be able to save her reputation, as well as her sisters, or will their secret be the talk of the town?

Chante, Darla, and Whitney have much going for them, but it could all be taken away at a dime. When old wounds reopen, the Baptiste sisters will need each other to get through the issues they will face in their personal lives and with each other."

Title: The Secrets We Keep
Author: Sheena Binkley
Publisher: S.B.
Reviewed: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Secrets We Keep" by Sheena Binkley

My Thoughts:

Three sisters, or was it four? 'The Secrets We Keep' was one read you may want to take advantage of. This author gives the reader something to think about long after the read. The real question in this story is whether the secrets are kept because no one knows how to keep a secret, and that's where the problem started. Will the story get figured out by the end? Keep up because so much is happening; you will not want to miss any of this! Will these sisters finally be able to get this mess solved? This is where you must pick up this good read to see how it gets resolved. The only thing left to say is if you want to keep it a secret...don't tell anyone!

Cindy Ella (BLP Fairytales Book 1) Kindle Edition by Denise Essex

 Book Excerpt:

"Cynthia "Cindy Ella" Miller is a stunning young Veterinarian School graduate. She and her father, Alonzo Miller, have moved in with his new wife, Mama Tremaine, and her fraternal twin stepsisters, Dreeyah and Stasia. Cindy has finally gotten the family she's longed for her entire life. All is well until Alonzo dies unexpectedly. Things slowly start to change for the worse.

Dr. Kofi Carter is an irresistible new Veterinarian at the Paradise Pet Care Hospital. He is the youngest of three boys and seems underestimated at home and on the job. A horrific event from his childhood makes Kofi believe he has to prove his worth and that respect must be demanded.

When Cindy starts her internship at the same pet hospital where Kofi works, he can't rest until he makes her his, but he finds himself in the friend zone. Kofi drops everything to help Cindy when she reveals her suspicion that there was foul play in her father's death. Will a Winter sneaker ball be enough to expose Cindy's evil stepmother and bring the two together? Or will Cindy be left without answers and out of Kofi's grasp?"

Title: Cindy Ella
Author: Denise Essex
Publisher: B. Love Publications
Series: BLP Fairytales Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Cindy Ella" by Denise Essex

My Thoughts:

This story was full of romance, love, evilness, and craziness, and I know I have left something out of 'Cindy Ella.' What starts like a decent story quickly turns wild after Cindy's father marries that evil stepmother, Tremaine, with her two children. I felt sorry for Cindy, who wanted a mom and sisters, but what did she get? Then she meets Kofi, which is a good thing for her, but with her being so twisted in what was going on in her life, she doesn't seem to recognize what was a good thing for her. You must pick up the book and see how it all comes out to get this good story. I hate to say this, but it all gets wild when you discover who was behind this mess. Believe it or not, I was shocked to find out who was behind this mess. I will stop here and say I am glad Cindy finally realized who was there for her through this mystery, thriller, and suspenseful novel.