Final Justice: A Miranda Chase Legal Thriller (Miranda Chase Legal Thriller Series Book 5) Kindle Edition by Freya Atwood

 Book Excerpt:

"A father's deadly secret. A cartel's ruthless revenge. A daughter's fight for survival—before her past consumes her.

Miranda Chase thought she'd finally won. After twenty-five years of torment, she put her father—the man who abused her, manipulated the system, and evaded justice—behind bars for good. But when the FBI strikes a deal to free him in exchange for bringing down a deadly cartel, Miranda's world shatters once more.

Hasta le Muerte doesn't forgive. The gang wants blood for the betrayal that landed their leader in prison—and they know exactly where to find it. A chilling message clarifies that Miranda and her brother Tyler are the next targets. As she races to uncover the cartel's next move, she realizes her father is playing his own game. He's always been three steps ahead, and now, with his freedom within reach, he's more dangerous than ever.

With time running out and nowhere to hide, Miranda must outmaneuver a ruthless cartel and the monster who raised her. Because if she fails, she won't just lose her case—she'll lose her life."

Final Justice is an exciting, blood-pumping legal thriller written by Freya Atwood and published by Cobalt Fairy.

Title:  Final Justice

Author:  Freya Atwood

Publisher:  Cobalt Fairy LLC

Series:  Miranda Chase Legal Thriller Book 5

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Final Justice" by Freya Atwood

My Insight:  

"Final Justice" was a captivating read that provided a satisfying conclusion to Miranda's journey. The narrative was filled with courtroom drama, keeping you on the edge of your seat with its dynamic characters. Moments of revelation changed everything for Miranda, especially when a trusted friend turned out to be someone very different. I won't give too much away, but it's a story worth picking up to see how it unfolds for her.

The extended epilogue was beautifully crafted. It gave Miranda a glimpse of happiness that had long been absent, and this poignant wrap-up left me hopeful for her future.

The Night Stalker In Court: A Serial Killers Legal Thriller (The Serial Killers Legal Thriller Series Book 3) Kindle Edition by Ellis Keler

 Book Excerpt:

"He hunted in the shadows, but now the spotlight is on him. Justice isn't the only thing on trial in The Night Stalker in Court…

About the book

A brutal predator…

A town demanding justice…

A lawyer defending the indefensible…

The Night Stalker's reign of terror is over, but the true nightmare is just beginning for defense attorney Vivienne Cross. With the world against her and the evidence damning, Vivienne takes on the case no one else will touch—because Marcus Reed chose her.

As the trial twists darker, chilling secrets surface—about Marcus, his victims, and Vivienne herself. And when the line between justice and horror blurs, one truth becomes clear:

Some monsters wear masks—and not all are on trial."

The Night Stalker In Court is an exciting, blood-pumping legal thriller, written by Ellis Keler and published by Cobalt Fairy.

If you enjoy strong characters, action-packed courtroom drama, and mind-blowing murder mysteries, you'll love Ellis' intriguing story."

Title: The Night Stalker in Court
Author: Ellis Keler
Publisher: Cobalt Fairy LLC
Series: The Serial Killers Legal Thriller Book 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Night Stalker In Court" by Ellis Keler

My Insight:

"The Night Stalker" presents a complex legal battle for attorney Vivienne Cross, who finds herself defending Marcus Reed, a man clearly guilty of heinous murders. Despite the overwhelming evidence against him, Vivienne believes it's crucial to delve into the reasons behind his actions to spare him from the death penalty. The dynamics between Vivienne and Marcus add an unsettling layer to the narrative, as his peculiar behavior unfolds throughout the trial.

This thrilling story will grip you from start to finish, compelling you to delve deeper into the motivations and secrets that lie beneath the surface. Readers question the boundaries between justice and morality as the courtroom drama intensifies. If you want to discover the ultimate fate of Vivienne and her client, you'll need to follow the twists and turns of this captivating tale.

No Ordinary Love by Myah Ariel

 Book Excerpt:

"A PR partnership between a pop superstar and a pro-athlete bad boy turns into so much more in this swoony romance from the acclaimed author of When I Think of You.

Ella Simone's popstar life is what dreams are made of. Her eight-year marriage to renowned music producer Elliot Majors has helped her garner the hits, awards, and adoring fans to prove it. But when she tires of Elliot's many infidelities, she fights for her independence despite the ironclad prenup that threatens her career. 

To help her case, Ella is under strict orders to stick to The Plan: no headlines, no rumors, no rocking the boat. But this strategy is thrown a curveball after an awards show wardrobe snafu and quick rescue by Miles Westbrook, MLB's most eligible player, sends the tabloids into a frenzy. Amid tricky divorce proceedings, Ella's magnetic connection with the charismatic pitcher might just be her downfall.

Now the pressure is on to turn a scandal into an opportunity and give their teams what they want: a picture-perfect performance that will shore up both Ella and Miles' reputations. But as the lines between reality and PR blur, Ella will either stick to the choreographed life she knows so well or surrender to a love that could set her free.

Title:  No Ordinary Love

Author:  Myah Ariel

Publisher:  Berkley

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"No Ordinary Love" by Myah Ariel

My Insight:

 'No Ordinary Love' is an engaging romantic story featuring Ella and Miles, keeping readers hooked from beginning to end. Seeing how the player, Elliot, fits into the narrative is intriguing. The story revolves around Ella, an R&B star going through a divorce, and Miles, a professional baseball player. I don't want to reveal too much and spoil the plot, but prepare for a beautifully written story showcasing a strong woman navigating her way in today's world.

Thank you, Net Gallery and Berkley, for a good read.

Thank you, Net Gallery and Berkley Publishing, for the read.

'No Ordinary Love' is an engaging romantic story featuring Ella and Miles, keeping readers hooked from beginning to end. It is intriguing to see how the player, Elliot, fits into the narrative. The story revolves around Ella, an R&B star going through a divorce, and Miles, a professional baseball player. I don't want to reveal too much and spoil the plot, but prepare for a beautifully written story showcasing a strong woman navigating her way in today's world.

Tilt A Novel by Emma Pattee

Book Excerpt:

"Set over one day, a heart-racing debut about a woman facing the unimaginable, determined to find safety.

Last night, you and I were safe. Last night, your father and I stood fighting in the kitchen in another universe.

Annie is nine months pregnant and shopping for a crib at IKEA when a massive earthquake hits Portland, Oregon. There's nothing to do but walk with no way to reach her husband, no phone or money, and a chaotic city.

Making her way across the wreckage of Portland, Annie experiences human desperation and kindness: strangers offering help, a riot at a grocery store, and an unlikely friendship with a young mother. As she walks, Annie reflects on her struggling marriage, her disappointing career, and her anxiety about having a baby. If she can just make it home, she's determined to change her life.

A propulsive debut, Tilt is a primal scream of a novel about the disappointments and desires we all carry and what we will do for the people we love."

Title:  Tilt

Author:  Emma Pattee

Publisher:  Simon Element | S&S/ Marysue Rucci Books

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Four

Review:

'Tilt' by Emma Pattee

My Insight:  

'Tilt' was quite a suspenseful read,  as was what happened to Annie during an earthquake in Portland, Oregon. While at the store, an earthquake occurred while Annie went shopping for a crib.   Being pregnant in her 37th week, her first baby, while looking for her husband, what will happen after this disaster? Annie will have many flashbacks as we are given a story of what happened before the earthquake. Be ready for wanting more of this story after reading about what happens when a natural disaster happens, how it will be taken in with how people react, and especially what happens while one is pregnant. This was a good read, but an epilogue would have been nice at the close of this story.  

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

 

The Love Simulation by Etta Easton

 Book Excerpt:

"A passionate vice principal and a guarded science teacher compete for a grand prize, only to realize their budding relationship might be the actual jackpot.

Brianna Rogers has been told a time (or six) she needs to stop jumping into things head first. But when the principal rescinds his approval for a library upgrade, deciding to spend the money on a football field instead, she sees red. Literally, Brianna throws her hat in the ring and joins a team of teachers who will spend their summer in a Mars simulation. As the sister of an astronaut, this should be easy, right? What she didn't count on was the last-minute addition to the team—Roman Major: science teacher, son of the principal, and too handsome for his own good.

Roman and Brianna have been hot and cold all year, and living in close quarters intensifies their animosity and attraction. Brianna is sure he's been sent by his father to sabotage them, foiling their chance at prize money that will cover all of the school's actual needs. But each day, Roman proves himself to be a dedicated teammate—and Brianna finds herself falling harder and harder. While it's clear the feeling is mutual, she can't shake the sense that he's hiding something. As the simulation nears its end, Brianna realizes she may have to make an impossible choice between the school she's dedicated herself to and the man who has won his way into her heart."

Title: The Love Simulation
Author: Etta Easton
Publisher: Berkley
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"The Love Simulation" by Etta Easton

My Insight:

"The Love Simulation" is an enchanting romance that masterfully navigates the delicate dance from rivals to lovers while weaving in the complexities of workplace dynamics and the struggles of unspoken feelings. Brianna and Roman's relationship transformation is heartwarming, especially as they bravely peel back their layers and reveal their genuine emotions. I was particularly impressed by how the author skillfully managed conflicts, crafting natural and deeply satisfying resolutions.

At the heart of the story is Vice Principal Brianna Rogers, who embarks on a thrilling journey with her fellow teachers in a Mars simulation, eager to win a substantial prize that would revitalize her school's neglected library. Despite the obstacles created by the principal's misguided choices, Brianna is relentlessly determined to make a meaningful difference for her students. The underlying tension between her and Roman adds a tantalizing layer to the narrative, sparking chemistry amidst their rivalry.

Are you curious about how it all unfolds? This delightful story beckons readers to dive in and experience the author's captivating storytelling and richly developed character. It's a must-read that promises to charm and inspire!

The Weekend: A Snowed In Story (The Lovers Series) Kindle Edition by Aja

 Book Excerpt:

"Janelle Carter's birthday escape to Aspen becomes an unforgettable affair when she meets Malcolm Pierce, a man whose gaze burns as hot as the firelight between them. What begins as an accidental collision of lives in the snowy mountains turns into a weekend of raw passion and undeniable connection. But when the storm ends, will they walk away, or will this be the start of something they've both been waiting for?

The Lovers Series: Tales of passion, play, and undeniable chemistry—where every romance is an experience you'll never forget. These are STANDALONE stories. Visit ajathewriter.com for more information about her work."

Title:  The Weekend

Author:  Aja

Publisher Date:  January 18, 2025

Series:  The Lovers Series

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

'The Weekend' by Aja

My Insight:

'The Weekend' is another great romance from this author. I found it interesting how Asha Sinclair and Ezra Bishop met, especially since Asha thought she would be spending her birthday alone. But will she really be alone? What will happen when Asha and Ezra cross paths? Their encounter leads to one steamy adventure.

Please pick up this captivating series to see if these two can make it work. You'll be eagerly awaiting the next installment!

The Arrangement: A Friends With Benefits Story (The Lovers Series) Kindle Edition by Aja

 Book Excerpt:

"Asha Sinclair doesn't do relationships. Ezra Bishop has been waiting for her to change her mind. Their casual, convenient, and complication-free arrangement was supposed to be enough. But when Asha needs a date for her sister's wedding, lines blur, rules break, and suddenly, pretending feels like something real."

Title: The Arrangement
Author: Aja
Publisher: She Loves Words Publishing LLC (February 20, 2025)
Series: The Lovers Series
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Arrangement" by Aja

My Insight:

If you are looking for a captivating erotic romance, then "The Arrangement" is definitely for you. The journey of Asha and Ezra as they navigate their feelings and eventually come together is beautifully written. I appreciated how Ezra, with great patience, reached his limit, forcing Asha to confront the reality of potentially losing something significant by clinging to her past. This installment in the series is engaging, and I found it hard to put down. There's so much more to explore, so get ready for a thrilling ride!

The Science of Racism Everything You Need to Know but Probably Don’t—Yet by Keon West

 Book Excerpt:

"In this frank, funny, and meticulous book, a leading social scientist lays out the striking facts we know about racism, how we have uncovered them, and how we can start to fix them."

Studies and surveys show, time and again, that about 50 percent of people believe that racism is no longer an issue today. The other half would disagree—vehemently. Much of the writing on the subject of race and racism is equally divisive, in large part because so much of it is based on opinion and personal experience. It's not grounded in empiricism. It's not science.

In The Science of Racism, social psychologist Keon West corrects that idea, moving this urgent conversation beyond anecdote and polemic in search of conclusive answers and solutions. Starting with a fascinating look at experiments around race in hiring, Dr. West brilliantly and methodically walks readers through our comprehensive understanding of this controversial topic. He looks at how racism impacts every stage and all facets of life, from birth to death, in education, work and business, friendships and relationships, police and the justice system, and healthcare. He also looks at the challenges around studying these questions, how we can uncover the truth, and where we go from here: why unconscious bias training can actually make things worse and what systems and techniques can lead us to a more equitable future."

Title: The Science of Racism
Author: Keon West
Publisher: Abrams Press
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"The Science of Racism" by Keon West

My Insight:

"The Science of Racism" was an interesting and well-written read. If you believe that racism is nonexistent, this book is a must-read. Dr. West effectively illuminates the reality of racism today, providing compelling evidence through various studies demonstrating its ongoing impact. His explanations are thorough and accessible, making complex concepts more manageable for the reader to understand.

Thank you to Net Galley and Abrams Press for the opportunity to read this insightful work in advance.

Justice For Her Past: A Miranda Chase Legal Thriller (Miranda Chase Legal Thriller Series Book 4) Kindle Edition by Freya Atwood

 Book Excerpt:

"A father's murder. A daughter on trial. A courtroom bombshell no one saw coming.

Miranda Chase has spent twenty-five years believing she and her brother killed their abusive father. Now, facing a lifetime behind bars, she's prepared to fight for her freedom—until the man she supposedly murdered walks into the courtroom alive.

The case against her crumbles, but the truth is far more terrifying. Someone was buried that night. Someone died by her hand. And someone wants to make damn sure she never finds out who.

With the FBI shielding her father, her brother tangled in a web of secrets, and a past that won't stay buried, Miranda is running out of allies—and time. Because the closer she gets to the truth, the clearer it becomes…
She's not the only one with blood on her hands."

Justice for Her Past is an exciting, blood-pumping legal thriller written by Freya Atwood and published by Cobalt Fairy.

Title: Justice for Her Past
Author: Freya Atwood
Publisher: Cobalt Fairy LLC (January 29, 2025)
Series: Miranda Chase Legal Thriller Series Book 4
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Justice For Her Past" by Freya Atwood

My Insight:

"Justice For Her Past" is an engaging legal thriller series that answers many questions about Miranda's future. The author's well-told story reveals a lot and keeps readers hooked with its many twists and turns. Additionally, the extended epilogue offers further insights into Miranda's future, enriching the overall experience for the reader.

Last Twilight in Paris by Pam Jenoff

 

Book Except:

"London, 1953. Louise is still adjusting to her postwar role as a housewife when she discovers a necklace in a box at a secondhand shop. The box is marked with the name of a department store in Paris, and she is confident she had seen the necklace before when she worked with the Red Cross in Nazi-occupied Europe — and that it holds the key to the mysterious death of her friend Franny during the war.

Following the trail of clues to Paris, Louise seeks help from her former boss, Ian, with whom she shares a romantic history. The necklace leads them to discover the dark history of Lévitan — a once-glamorous department store that served as a Nazi prison — and Helaine, a woman who was imprisoned there, torn apart from her husband when the Germans invaded France.

Louise races to find the connection between the necklace, the department store, and Franny's death. But nothing is as it seems, and forces are determined to keep the truth buried forever. Inspired by the true story of Lévitan, Last Twilight in Paris is both a gripping mystery and an unforgettable story about sacrifice, resistance, and the power of love to transcend in even the darkest hours."

Title:  Last Twilight in Paris

Author:  Pam Jenoff

Publisher:  Harlequin Trade Publishing | Park Row

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

'Last Twilight in Paris' by Pam Jenoff

My Insight:

'Last Twilight' is a unique story set during WWII. It was co-authored by two and provides readers with an engaging novel. 

The narratives of Louise, Joe, Gabriel, and Helaine are particularly captivating. While the story addresses various horrors of war, it also weaves in elements of romance. Overall, the reader experiences a blend of history and storytelling that includes unexpected twists and turns and themes of hope, love, and betrayal, all of which keep the reader turning the pages until the end.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance reading of your book.

The Love Lyric by Kristina Forest

 

Book Excerpt:

"An R&B singer and a corporate executive find love that hits the right notes in this romance by Kristina Forest, USA Today bestselling author of The Partner Plot.

Iris Greene used to be a woman with a plan. But all that changed after she met the love of her life at twenty-five, got pregnant and married…and then became a widow and a single mother in just over two years. After years of hustling, Iris is the director of partnerships at a beauty company and raising sweet six-year-old Calla by herself. Despite her busy life, she still can't help but feel lonely. She just needs to catch her breath—and one night, at her sister's wedding, when she steps outside to do just that, she sees a particular singer who takes her breath away. . . .

By all accounts, pop R&B singer Angel Hughes has it made. He's a successful musician and has just scored a brand ambassador deal with an emerging beauty company. But he's still not fulfilled; he's not producing songs he's passionate about, and there's a gaping hole in his love life. When he visits the Save Face Beauty office to kickstart his campaign, he's delighted to see Iris, his stylist's sister—the beautiful woman he's secretly had a crush on for years.

Despite their obvious attraction to each other, they must stay professional throughout the campaign tour—a goal that doesn't quite pan out. But when it becomes clear their lives aren't in sync, can they fall back in step to the same rhythm and beat?"

"Kristina Forest's Green Sisters series blends swoon-worthy romantic moments with a healthy dose of sisterly bonding and a dash of glitz and glamor. Each book is a well-rounded treat."—Alexis Daria, bestselling author of You Had Me at Hola

Title:  The Love Lyric

Author:  Kristina Forest

Publisher:   Berkley

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

'The Love Lyric' by Kristina Forest

My Insight:

"The Love Lyric" is a heartwarming read featuring the Green Sisters, mainly focusing on Iris, a widow navigating her new life. She finds herself drawn to Angel, a musician who seems like he should be off-limits, leading to a tension-filled relationship that raises questions about their circumstances. This book captures grief and drama and a budding romance that keeps the reader engaged. The dynamic between Iris and Angel is compelling, and adding Iris's supportive sisters and her daughter further enhances the narrative. I appreciated the character development, especially how Iris learns to let go of her 'fear and obligation,' which allows her to grow. Kristina Forest expertly weaves together love, loss, and music themes, creating a rich, emotional experience. This story is a testament to her storytelling ability and is definitely a must-read for fans of contemporary romance.

Thank you, NetGalley and Berkely, for the early read.

The Beast In Court: A Serial Killers Legal Thriller (The Serial Killers Legal Thriller Series Book 1) Kindle Edition by Ellis Keler

 Book Excerpt:

"Vivienne Cross is no stranger to monsters in the courtroom. But Mason Grey is unlike any client she's ever faced.

Accused of gruesome murders and chilling atrocities, Mason insists he's more than just a killer—and Vivienne is drawn to uncover the truth. But representing him comes with a price: public revulsion, threats to her career, and a growing fear that she might be playing into his hands.

As secrets about Mason's dark past and the system that failed him come to light, Vivienne must confront a terrifying question: Is justice ever truly blind—or has Mason Grey already won?

The Beast In Court is an exciting, blood-pumping legal thriller written by Ellis Keler and published by Cobalt Fairy.

Title:  The Beast in Court

Author:  Ellis Keler

Publisher:  Cobalt Fairy LLC

Series: Book 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: 5

Review:

"The Beast In Court" by Ellis Keler

My Insight: 

"The Beast in Court" is a gripping legal thriller that captivates from start to finish. The narrative follows lawyer Vivienne Cross as she takes on the challenging case of Mason Grey, who stands accused of multiple murders. As Vivienne delves deeper into Mason's complicated past, she finds herself not only fighting for his life against the death penalty but also wrestling with the darker implications of her defense. The book is packed with unexpected twists and turns, and the array of intriguing secondary characters adds depth to the story. Readers will find it hard to put down as they race toward the electrifying conclusion. Don't forget to check out the extended epilogue, which goes deeper into Mason Grey's story and offers even more suspense!

Butterscotch Bliss: A Clean and Wholesome Sweet Second-Chance Christmas Romance Cecelia Dowdy

Book Excerpt:

"Raquel's father died when she was a baby - that's what she thought...
She receives a mysterious phone call - stating her father is alive and in hospice. He must see her before he dies. Why has her mother lied to her for all these years about her father's "death"?

She must rely on Patrick, her ex, to help her make the trip to see her father during a massive snowstorm. Patrick has his own set of problems - he never told Raquel the real reason why he abandoned her three years ago."

BUTTERSCOTCH BLISS is a tasty Christmas unforgettable romance!

Title:  Butterscotch Bliss

Author:  Cecelia Dowdy

Publisher:  Divine Desserts Publishing LLC (January 8, 2025)

Reviewed By: Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Butterscotch Bliss" by Cecelia Dowdy

My Insight:

"Butterscotch Bliss" by Cecelia Dowdy is a captivating story about how Raquel and Patrick reunite and resolve their past issues. Once deeply in love, they were tragically separated. Now, Raquel discovers that her father is not dead, prompting questions about the truth behind his absence.

To uncover the secrets of Raquel and Patrick's relationship, you must read this engaging story to see how Cecelia Dowdy skillfully reveals the unfolding drama. It's a delightful tale of how things can work out for Raquel and Patrick. The secondary characters are equally inspiring, adding depth and insight to the narrative.

Buzz Books 2025: Spring/Summer by Publishers Lunch

 Book Excerpt:

"Welcome to Buzz Books 2025: Spring/Summer, the 26th edition of our celebrated sampler series. This collection offers readers an exclusive preview of nearly fifty of the season's most anticipated releases, curated to showcase established voices and emerging talents. You will find a link to the full galley on NetGalley at the end of most excerpts!

Readers will discover new works from beloved bestselling authors, including Emma Donoghue, Georgia Hunter, Louis Sachar, V. E. Schwab, Mia Sosa, and Maggie Stiefvater. The collection also features compelling releases from acclaimed literary voices Ron Currie, Stuart Nadler, Dolen Perkins-Valdez, Ivy Pochoda, Jessica Stanley, and others who continue to push boundaries in contemporary fiction.

Continuing our tradition of spotlighting the most promising new voices in literature, this edition introduces several remarkable debuts. Salvadorean-American author Darrow Farr's The Bombshell draws partial inspiration from Patty Hearst's kidnapping and radicalization to create a thought-provoking narrative. Other exciting debut authors include Katie Yee, Fred Lunzer, India Hayford, Nanda Reddy, and Josh Duboff, each bringing fresh perspectives to contemporary storytelling.

Powerful new releases in nonfiction explore the depths of human experience. Sophie Elmhirst's A Marriage at Sea leads this collection with its gripping account of a couple's survival in the Pacific Ocean after a whale destroys their boat. The other works delve into the complexities of communication, corporate culture, institutional power, and family dynamics.

The young adult section showcases Graci Kim's Dreamslinger, a fantasy adventure set in Seoul where dreams materialize and dragons take flight. Other standout YA titles include Shampoo Unicorn, a heartfelt story connecting rural queer teens through podcasting, and Kaya Morgan's Crowning Achievement, which weaves themes of grief and identity into a Renaissance Faire setting.

Watch for Buzz Books 2025: Fall/Winter, arriving in May, to discover next season's literary conversations in the making."

Title:  Buzz Books 2025

Author:  Publishers Lunch

Publisher:  Publisher Buzz Books

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: 5

Review:

"Buzz Books 2025" by Publishers Lunch

My Insight:  

I enjoyed the Buzz book collection sample previews. I will find interesting reads from this list, and I look forward to reading them. It was wonderful to get the book cover and a summary of the novel. 

Thank you, Publishers Lunch, for allowing me to preview many of these good reads.