Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Library Thing... Degree of Guilt (Baby of the Bailey Book 1) Kindle Edition by Dan Cogan


 Book Excerpt:

"How can one man have two different brains? Then again, how can two men have one?

Soraya Wallace arrives home from an outing on Hampstead Heath with her daughter, Huette, and grandchildren just as a workman (Calvin Coffey) comes running from the house. Inside the house, Soraya finds the body of her husband, Walter, lying battered to death in a pool of blood, with a blood-stained hammer nearby. Calvin insists that he was there to give a quote for a loft conversion and found the body. But Soraya knows nothing about any such planned building work. And when Calvin is arrested, the police can find no trace of his existence before six months ago.

Young, feisty, and at times reckless law pupil Emily du Lac is pulled from other duties to help her supervisor, Nigel Farringdon KC (the first black head of St Jude's Chambers), in Calvin's defense. Emily is not afraid of the challenge - she grew up around the Old Bailey, and her estranged father was head of chambers as well as Nigel's mentor. But with whispers of "nepotism" swirling around her, Emily has something to prove and is not averse to putting 
everything on the line to catch a hammer-wielding murderer - including her life."

Title:  Degree of Guilt
Author:  Dan Cogan
Publisher:  Man of Mystery Publication Dec. 26, 2024
Series:  Baby of the Bailey Book 1
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Degree of Guilt" by Dan Cogan

My Insight:

'Degree of Guilt' is a gripping crime and legal thriller that draws you in with its captivating storyline set in England. After returning home with her daughter and grandchildren, Soraya Wallace uncovers something unexpected that sets off a chain of events. The narrative follows Emily du lac, a young law student, as she steps into the courtroom to defend the accused. The legal drama is filled with intriguing twists and turns, keeping readers on their toes. Beyond the courtroom proceedings, the story unfolds with additional suspenseful elements that promise to maintain your interest. Prepare for a richly detailed read that introduces a variety of characters, each of whom could potentially be a suspect. As you delve into the pages, you'll find yourself guessing and piecing together clues—who could really be guilty?

If you are into thriller reads, this one is for you.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and LibraryThing for the book to review.


Siren (The Enigma Affairs) Kindle Edition by Aja


Book Excerpt:

What begins as a calculated partnership ignites into an undeniable inferno. Taraj, a reclusive R&B star with a soul full of secrets, faces a life-altering decision: cling to his solitary existence or surrender to the spellbinding beauty with a voice that shakes his very foundation.

Their arrangement was supposed to be temporary—a means to an end—but every shared moment blurs the lines between need and desire. With hearts on the line, love is proving to be the fiercest contender, waging a war neither is prepared to fight... or willing to lose.

The Enigma Affairs are CONTEMPORARY STANDALONE ROMANCE stories.


Title:  Siren

Author:  Aja

Publisher:  She Loves Words Publishing LLC

Series:  The Enigma Affairs

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

'Siren' by Aja

My Insight:  

'Siren' is a captivating story about two characters, Sienna and Taraj, who unite through their passion for music. You'll want to dive into this narrative to discover how they weave together a poetic love story that resonates with the idea of true love. This tale is a delightful blend of various elements, creating a soulful love story that feels interconnected. The author skillfully keeps the reader engaged, ensuring that you're eager to turn the pages and find out what happens next for these two intriguing characters. By the conclusion, you'll be treated to a soulful, poetic, and beautifully crafted narrative that's sure to leave a lasting impression.

 

How to Sell a Romance by Alexa Martin

Book Excerpt:

"Emerson Pierce loves everything about being a kindergarten teacher except the painfully low salary. It isn't until she hears about Petunia Lemon—an opportunity to sell makeup products, make some extra money, and meet a group of skin-care aficionados—that she begins to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Sure, it sounds a little too good to be true, but what's the worst that could happen?


Investigative reporter Lucas Miller didn't always have a chip on his shoulder...until his wife joined Petunia Lemon, drained their savings, and filed for divorce. Now he's a little bitter, a lot single, and determined to expose the company. After infiltrating their largest convention yet, the last thing he expects is to lose sight of his mission for one night with the gorgeous woman at the bar.

When Emerson and Lucas learn that she's his daughter's teacher, they decide to ignore their scorching chemistry. Until things with Petunia Lemon turn downright diabolical and Emerson turns to Lucas for help. They work together to bring the company down, but can the two come out on top in this pyramid scheme of love?"


Title:  How to Sell a Romance

Author:  Alexa Martin

Publisher:  Berkley Publishing Group

Reviewed By: Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

'How to Sell a Romance' by Alexa Martin

My Insight:  

The title "How to Sell a Romance" presents an intriguing premise for a love story. What unfolds when Emerson Pierce meets Lucas Miller? As their relationship develops, Emerson discovers that Lucas is a journalist currently writing an article about a multi-level marketing (MLM) scheme. This revelation is significant for Emerson, as her school principal has encouraged her to join the MLM run by Petunia Lemon. As the plot progresses, Emerson learns more about Lucas and his child, Isla, who is one of her kindergarten students. To complicate matters, Emerson realizes that Isla's mother is Petunia Lemon, the very person associated with the MLM.

To get the whole story, you must pick up this good read to see how it all comes together in the end.


Thank you, NetGalley and Berkley, for the free ARC.




 

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Body of Evidence (A Rain City Legal Thriller Book 6) Kindle Edition by Stephen Penner


Book Excerpt:

"She was murdered ten years ago. Now, she has a story to tell.

Seattle Attorney Daniel Raine is hired by Jim Carpenter, who has been charged with a cold case murder.

A body has been discovered, buried under Carpenter's business. When the remains are identified as a missing girl who was responsible for the DUI death of his own daughter, he instantly becomes the prime suspect.

It's a clear case of a grief-stricken father out for revenge.

Believing Carpenter's vehement protestations of innocence, Raine sets out to uncover the truth about what really happened on that fateful day ten years ago.

However, the case becomes increasingly complex as Raine finds himself battling a power-hungry prosecutor with ambitions for higher office.

Even worse, all the witnesses seem to have something to hide, and as he digs for the truth, Raine has to fight through a tangled web of secrets and lies.

A web that will soon turn deadly…"


Body of Evidence – the sixth book in the brilliant legal thriller series featuring attorney Daniel Raine.

Title:  Body of Evidence

Author:  Stephen Penner

Publisher:  Inkubator Books

Series:  A Rain City Legal Thriller Book 6

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Body of Evidence" by Stephen Penner

My Insight:  

'Body of Evidence' is a gripping courtroom drama that centers on attorney Dan Raine, who finds himself embroiled in a high-stakes murder case. With his client facing serious charges, the tension escalates when the client's wife is also implicated in a murder. The story unfolds with a cast of three lawyers navigating the complexities of the law, secrets, and moral dilemmas. As Raine works to clear his client's name, readers are taken on a thrilling journey filled with twists and turns. You'll definitely want to pick up this sixth installment to see how the intricate web of the case unravels and whether the attorneys can secure justice for their clients. The suspense will keep you turning the pages eagerly!







 

Such Good People A Novel by Amy Blumenfeld


 Book Excerpt:

"An emotionally gripping, character-driven novel about the ripple effect of a split-second decision to protect a friend.


"A poignant story of love, loss, loyalty, and being torn between right and wrong. You won't be able to put this one down."—Emily Liebert, USA Today best-selling author of Pretty Revenge.

"One of those multi-dimensional must-reads that wins both as a page-turning legal story about social injustice, prejudice, and redemption, and an emotional character-driven tale of love, family, and lifelong friendship. Fans of Tayari Jones' An American Marriage, Rebecca Searles' In Five Years, and Allison Larkin's The People We Keep will devour Amy Blumenfeld's latest triumph. Such Good People is Such a Good Book!"Samantha Greene Woodruff, best-selling author of The Lobotomist's Wife and The Trade Off.

It's 10 p.m. on a Thursday in the spring of her freshman year of college, and April is standing at the back of a crowded Manhattan bar waiting for her friend, Rudy, to arrive. Their eyes lock the moment he enters the room, and in an instant, lives and legacies are altered forever.

Within hours, Rudy is arrested. Within days, April is expelled. Within weeks, he's incarcerated. And within months, she meets Peter, a prodigious young attorney who makes her world recognizable again.

Nearly fifteen years later, April is happily living in Chicago, married to Peter, a mother of three with a fulfilling career and a standing yoga date with her girlfriends. On the eve of Peter's election for local office, Rudy is up for parole. Headlines explode about April's past, jeopardizing Peter's campaign and everything they hold dear. Suddenly, April is faced with an impossible choice: protecting the life she created, or the person who sacrificed everything to make that life a possibility. Such Good People is a captivating portrait of blurred lines, divided loyalties, and what it means to love purely, steadfastly, and interminably."

Title:  Such Good People
Author:  Amy Blumenfeld
Publisher:  SparkPress
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Such Good People" by Amy Blumenfeld

My Insight:

'Such Good People' is a beautifully crafted and captivating read. The main characters, April and Rudy, lifelong best friends, find themselves ensnared in a heartbreaking tragedy that sets the stage for a profound exploration of loyalty and sacrifice. The narrative masterfully weaves together the past and present, offering multiple perspectives that pull you deeper into the emotional complexities of their lives. With each turn of the page, you'll find yourself completely absorbed in the story, as the voices of April, Rudy, and Peter intertwine to create a rich tapestry of human experience. This multi-dimensional tale is not only engaging but also thought-provoking, making it impossible to put down until the final word is reached.

Thank you, NetGalley and Sparkpress, for the advance reader's copy.






Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Save Me by Mona Kasten


 Book Excerpt:

"Money, glamour, luxury, power—Ruby Bell couldn't be less interested in these things if she tried. After being awarded a scholarship to one of England's most prestigious and expensive private schools, Maxton Hall, all she wants is to keep her head down, work hard, and get accepted to Oxford. She keeps her distance from everyone, especially the arrogant, rich, and extremely handsome James Beaufort, ringleader of the school's party boys.


When Ruby discovers a scandalous secret about the Beauforts, she is suddenly on James's radar. It only gets worse when James is forced to work with her to plan the school's annual gala. Yet the more time they spend together, the more they realize they share much more than they thought.

Falling for James Beaufort was never part of her plan, yet Ruby can't help but let her feelings sweep her away. But James must make a decision for himself: will he choose what's expected of him, or what he feels for her?"

Title:  Save Me
Author:  Mona Kasten
Publisher:  Berkley Publishing Group
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  Four
Review:
'Save Me' by Mona Kasten

My Insight:  

"Save Me" is a mesmerizing romantic tale that intricately weaves together Ruby's fierce determination and James' insufferable arrogance. To fully appreciate the profound connection that unfolds between these two compelling characters, I wholeheartedly encourage you to immerse yourself in this captivating narrative. It masterfully illustrates how Ruby's humility challenges James, while he, in turn, introduces her to the joys of living fully. The story envelops you in its charm, ensuring you are enthralled until the very last page. Moreover, the rich tapestry of secondary characters adds layers of depth and intrigue, enhancing the overall experience and making this a truly unforgettable read.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

Until Death Do Us Part: What Did You Vow? Kindle Edition by Lakisha Johnson


Book Excerpt:

"Nehemiah found his good thang in Eden Lynette Crawford. They met, dated, and married all within six months. Eleven years later, while they are thriving in their careers — Nehemiah as Executive Pastor of Unlimited Grace Church and Eden as an Investigative Reporter with JMT Broadcasting — the fire has gone out in their marriage bed.

Eden can't understand why, and Nehemiah isn't eager to rekindle it. Frustrated, tired, and without answers, the last time Nehemiah pushes her way is the first time Eden walks away.

Until she returns home early from an out-of-town trip to discover Nehemiah has been keeping a secret. One that may just test their vow of Until Death Do Us Part.

In the final book of the What Did You Vow series, find out if Nehemiah and Eden's marriage survives or will Until Death Do Us Part be taken to heart."

Title: Until Death Do Us Part: What Did You Vow?


Author: Lakisha Johnson


Publisher: Twins Write 2


Series: What Did You Vow? Part 6


Reviewed By: Arlena Dean


Rating: Five


Review:


"Until Death Do Us Part: What Did You Vow?" by Lakisha Johnson


My Insight:


All I can say is 'Wow... this book left me breathless from start to finish.' The author masterfully illustrates the complexities of a love that, while deep, can falter without the foundation of communication. In the end, despite all they shared, Nehemiah's silence becomes a chasm between him and Eden. He thought he was shielding her from his struggles, not realizing that the very act of sharing his burdens could have helped heal the rifts that had grown between them. When the truth began to unravel, it moved me to tears.


Until Death Do Us Part is a poignant story that everyone should experience; it beautifully highlights the vital importance of honesty and connection in any relationship. The writing is both compelling and impactful, leaving a lasting impression. The story is one you must read to appreciate how well the author delivered it. You will gain a great deal from it. Thank you to the author for an outstanding read!

 A heartfelt thank you to the author for delivering such an extraordinary read.


The Girls Who Grew Big A Novel by Leila Mottley


 Book Excerpt:

"Adela Woods is sixteen years old and pregnant. Her parents banish her from her comfortable upbringing in Indiana to her grandmother's home in the small town of Padua Beach, Florida. When she arrives, Adela meets Emory, who brings her newborn to high school, determined to graduate despite the odds; Simone, mother of four-year-old twins, who weighs her options when she finds herself pregnant again; and the rest of the Girls, a group of outcast young moms who raise their growing brood in the back of Simone's red truck.

The town thinks the Girls have lost their way, but really, they are finding it: looking for love, making and breaking friendships, and navigating the miracle of motherhood and the paradox of girlhood.

Full of heart and life and hope, set against the shifting sands of these friends' secrets and betrayals, The Girls Who Grew Up confirms Leila Mottley's promise and offers an explosive new perspective on what it means to be a young woman."

Title:  The Girls Who Grew Big
Author:  Leila Mottley
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"The Girls Who Grew Big" by Leila Mottley

My Insight:

"The Girls Who Grew Big" is a profoundly moving and captivating tale that follows the lives of three young teenage mothers in a small Florida town. Each mother brings a unique perspective shaped by her distinct upbringing, creating a rich tapestry of experiences. The narrative delves deeply into the complexities of pregnancy, birth, motherhood, abortion, and miscarriage, woven together with heartfelt prose that resonates long after you turn the final page. The author paints vivid portraits of these young women's struggles and triumphs, allowing readers to feel their joy, sorrow, and resilience. However, given its sensitive subject matter, this poignant story may not resonate with everyone; therefore, it's essential to consider whether it aligns with your reading preferences.


Thank you, NetGalley and Knopf, for providing me with an eARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Saturday, June 21, 2025

Finding Grace A Novel by Loretta Rothschild

Book Excerpt:

"A twisty, gripping novel that wraps around a profoundly moving love story, from an electric new voice in upmarket women's fiction.


SHE THOUGHT IT WAS F TE. I KNEW IT WASN'T....


Honor seems to have everything: she adores her bright and beautiful daughter, Chloe, and her charming, handsome husband, Tom, even if he works one hundred hours a week. Yet Honor's longing for another baby threatens to eclipse all of it―until a shocking event changes their lives forever.

Years later, Tom makes a decision that ripples through their families' lives in ways he could never have foreseen. As the consequences of that fateful choice unfold, the two women's paths become irrevocably intertwined. But when old love clashes with new, who will be left standing? And what happens when your secrets come back to haunt you?

Blending a page-turning moral dilemma with satisfying emotional poignancy, Finding Grace is a sweeping love story that explores the price of a new beginning, how the ghosts of our past shape our future, and whether redemption can be found in the wreckage of what we've lost."

Title:  Finding Grace
Author:  Loretta Rothschild
Publisher:  St. Martin's Press
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  Five
Review:
"Finding Grace" by Loretta Rothschild

My Insight:

"Finding Grace" is an enchanting love story that beautifully weaves the lives of Honor, Tom, and Chloe. This novel is brimming with unexpected twists, masterfully exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and family secrets. From the very first page, it grips your attention and pulls you into a whirlwind journey where tragedy strikes and life spirals out of control. By the time you reach the final chapter, you'll be left in awe of how the narrative unfolds, with shocking revelations that will leave you breathless. It's an absolute must-read that showcases the author's extraordinary talent for crafting a compelling narrative, leaving you yearning for more once the last word is turned.


Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advance reader's copy.








Prime Suspects (A Rain City Legal Thriller Book 5) Kindle Edition by Stephen Penner


 Book Excerpt:

"A high-society dinner. Served with a side of murder.


When successful real estate entrepreneur Alexandra Pruitt is poisoned at her own retirement dinner, there are many suspects to choose from. Too many.

Alexandra's long-term boyfriend and the five women Alexandra mentored over the years all have reasons to want her dead. The police quickly pick the most obvious, one of Alexandra's mentees, Meredith Beauchamp.

Attorney Daniel Raine thinks they've got it wrong and sets out to prove it.

Who benefits most from Alexandra's murder? The answer isn't as straightforward as it seems. A missing will, forged business documents, and secrets in the past all serve to muddy the waters.

Raine knows he has his work cut out if he is to untangle this web of deceit. But he is willing to do whatever it takes to save an innocent woman from a life behind bars.

Even if that means bending the law a little…"

Title:  Prime Suspects
Author:  Stephen Penner
Publisher:   Inkubator Books
Series: A Rain City Legal Thriller Book 5
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating:  Five
Review:
"Prime Suspects" by Stephen Penner

My Insights:

"Prime Suspects" is an enthralling legal thriller that will grip your attention and keep you flipping pages as you wrestle with the question of whether Meredith Beauchamp is truly guilty of two murders. In a race against time, the brilliant attorney Daniel Raine, alongside his savvy private investigator Rebecca Sommer, embarks on a relentless quest to uncover the truth behind the shocking murder of Alexandra Pruitt. As if one murder weren't enough, the plot takes a thrilling twist with the revelation of another death—Alexandra's attorney, which adds a rich layer of complexity to the unfolding drama. With every turn of the page, the story deepens, weaving a tapestry of intrigue that makes it impossible to look away. Prepare to be astounded as the pieces fall into place, revealing how a seemingly innocuous party involving the Fab Five—Meredith, Rebecca, Fiona, Julia, and Caroline—fueled a web of betrayal and ulterior motives. To truly appreciate the brilliant craftsmanship of this narrative, you must dive into "Prime Suspects." The journey taken by Attorney Raine to unearth critical evidence and unravel the reasons behind Alexandra's demise is a captivating adventure. This fifth installment in the Rain City Legal Thriller series is not just a good read; it's an electrifying experience that will leave you breathless and eager for more.

This book, part of the Rain City Legal Thriller series [Book 5], was definitely worth reading.


Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Super Easy Diabetic Air Fryer Cookbook with Color Photos, by Alexander Robinetti


 Book Excerpt:

This is a beautifully told book, especially for those with diabetes.

Title:  Super Easy Diabetic Air Fryer Cookbook with Color Photos

Author:  Alexander Robinetti

Publisher: A.R.

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

'Super Easy Diabetic Air Fryer Cookbook with Color Photos' by Alexander Robinetti

My Insight:

'The "Super Easy Diabetic Air Fryer Cookbook with Color Photos" is an outstanding resource, particularly for individuals with diabetes. One of its notable features is that it includes recipes specifically designed for air fryers. Many of these recipes are accompanied by color illustrations, making it easy to visualize the final dish.

You'll find a diverse range of recipes that help create well-balanced meals throughout the day.

I plan to get the Claim Your Free Bonus: The Guide to 10 Secret Spices that Enhance Flavor! 
Thank you so very much!

I received a free book from LibraryThing, courtesy of the Author, and these are my thoughts about this wonderful cookbook.


Friday, May 30, 2025

Rain City Legal Thrillers Box Set (Books 1 - 4) (A Rain City Legal Thriller) Kindle Edition by Stephen Penner


 Book Excerpt:

"INTRODUCING FOUR RIVETING LEGAL THRILLERS FEATURING ATTORNEY DANIEL RAINE.

Perfect for fans of Dan Decker, Michael Stagg, and Peter O'Mahoney.

Seattle defense attorney Daniel Raine is relentless in his pursuit of justice. And he's in the right place - the city's streets provide an endless supply of cunning criminals and high-stakes cases. With his career on the line and justice hanging in the balance, Raine must stay one step ahead of ruthless prosecutors and dangerous adversaries - or his following case may be his last.

What readers are saying about the series:
"The characters are well defined and the 
writing is excellent— especially the dialogue… recommended for all readers who enjoy this genre…" -Netgalley Reviewer

"A well-written and plotted legal thriller… This is fast becoming an interesting series that is well worth following. The 
plot is original with twists and turns..." -Netgalley Reviewer.

"…I 
can recommend them as they are clearly written by a person who is a lawyer." -Booksprout Reviewer.

IN THIS FOUR-BOOK BOX SET:

BURDEN OF PROOF
Some people would kill for a fresh start.
Attorney Daniel Raine's law partner is leaving the firm. If Raine can't find a way to stay afloat, he'll practice law out of his car.
Then, wealthy socialite Abigail Willoughby arrives at his door, wanting to divorce her even richer husband.
Raine takes the case but gets forced into an alliance with realtor Rebecca Sommers, who has her own motives for wanting to get close to his client.
What seems like a straightforward case turns to chaos when Abigail threatens her husband, Jeremy, in front of dozens of witnesses. That same night, Jeremy is murdered.
Abigail swears she's innocent, and Raine believes her. Together with Sommers, he races to find out who really killed Jeremy and to save his client from serving a lifetime behind bars.

TRIAL BY JURY
Murder is an art form. And this one is a masterpiece.
When attorney Daniel Raine is invited to a gala at an art gallery, he views it as an opportunity to attract new clients.
And it works most unexpectedly when an artist is found dead in the restroom.
The police declare it a suicide, and the young woman's parents promptly sue the gallery owner for driving their daughter to take her own life. Raine is hired to defend the lawsuit and embarks on a mission to exonerate his client.
He soon becomes convinced that the young artist was murdered. But why? And by whom?

THE SURVIVAL RULE
A family on top of the world. With a long, long way to fall.
Daniel Raine is hired by Adam Harper, the son of Seattle's most prominent developer. Adam wants to seize control of the family company by declaring his father mentally unfit.
There's only one problem - the old man is very much in possession of his mental faculties, and Raine will lose the case. Ever the pragmatist, Raine decides to stick with it and rack up some billable hours.
But he finds himself in the middle of a deadly dispute as various members of this powerful family fight to gain control. They will stop at nothing to get what they want, including murder.
As Raine closes in on the final truth, he becomes a target in this twisted game.

DOUBLE JEOPARDY
Murder. Lies. Corruption. Just another day at the office.
A young man, Michael, dies while in custody at the county jail. The authorities claim it was a heart attack.
His mom thinks it was murder.
Daniel Raine agrees to take the case, suing the jail for wrongful death. But no one will discuss what happened in Michael's cell that fateful night.
Now Raine must unravel the mystery. Did someone order Michael's murder?

DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS 4-BOOK BOX SET OF BESTSELLING LEGAL THRILLERS THAT WILL HAVE YOU TURNING THE PAGES LONG INTO THE NIGHT!

Title: Rain City Legal Thrillers Box Set [Books 1-4]
Author: Stephen Penner
Publisher: ‎ Inkubator Books
Series: A Rain City Legal Thriller Books 1-4
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Rain City Legal Thrillers" by Stephen Penner

My Insight:
Book One: Burden of Proof:
"Burden of Proof" is an engaging legal thriller featuring attorney Daniel Raine, who takes on the case of Abigail Willoughby, accused of murdering her husband, Jeremy. It's going to be quite a journey as Daniel works to piece the case together.

Book Two: Trial by Jury:
'Trial by Jury' is a captivating legal thriller where Attorney Daniel Raine investigates whether a young artist was murdered or if it was a suicide.

Book Three: Survival Rule:
In the book "Survival Rule," the third installment in this series, Attorney Daniel Raine becomes involved in helping Adam Harper, who is seeking to have his father declared mentally unfit. The unfolding events will keep readers engaged, as the entire family becomes involved in one way or another by the end of the story.

Book Four: Double Jeopardy:
'Double Jeopardy' is the fourth thrilling installment in the 'Rain City Legal Thrillers' series. In this gripping story, Attorney Daniel Raine becomes involved in a heart-wrenching case where he seeks justice for a mother whose son died while in custody. The authorities claim it was a heart attack, but the mother believes there's more to the story and suspects foul play. As Raine delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers layers of lies and corruption surrounding the incident. This installment promises to be an intense and engaging read, as Raine navigates the complexities of two intertwined cases while fighting for truth and justice.

All four of these books were enjoyable Legal Thriller reads.

Monday, May 19, 2025

Baked With Love (The Boardwalk Bakery Romance Book 1) Kindle Edition by Tina Martin


 Book Excerpt:

"Ramsey St. Claire can't understand the pull he has to visit The Boardwalk Bakery - until he enters and meets the quirky, timid bakery owner, Gianna Jacobsen. There's an instant... 'something'. Not love, though. He doesn't believe in love at first sight. But there is... 'something'. Since recently taking a sabbatical from work, he has all the time in the world to figure out what that 'something' is. When he starts peeling back Gianna's layers, he quickly becomes addicted to more than just her delicious, mouth-watering cupcakes. He wants to know her in ways he never thought he wanted to know a woman again. And Ramsey St. Claire always gets what he wants."

Title: Baked With Love

Author: Tina Martin

Publisher: T.M.
Series: The Boardwalk Bakery Romance Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Baked With Love," by Tina Martin

My Insight:

"Baked With Love" is an engaging romantic read that explores Ramsey and Gianna's relationship. However, bringing these two together is quite challenging, especially since Gianna is unsure of what she truly wants, while Ramsey is clear about his feelings.

Readers must pick up the next two series installments to discover whether Ramsey and Gianna's relationship will develop further.

This Time Next Year Kindle Edition by Tina Martin


 Book Excerpt:

"The love of my life up and let me one day, and I have no idea why. My life hasn't been the same since.

When I run into Adrianna in a grocery store, I instantly feel the chemistry between us. Thinking there's still a chance, I drive to her home hoping we can talk. Besides, she told me that if we were both single next year, we'd give marriage another go.

The only thing is, I don't know why our marriage failed in the first place."


Title:  This Time Next Year
Author:  Tina Martin
Publisher:  T.M.
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
This Time Next Year Kindle Edition by Tina Martin

My Insight:

'This Time Next Year' is a captivating novella by Tina Martin that explores the connection between two characters, Trey and Adrianna, who, despite their breakup, still have a bond that pulls them back together. What will Adrianna reveal to Trey? To find out, you must pick up this engaging short read!

Library Thing... Degree of Guilt (Baby of the Bailey Book 1) Kindle Edition by Dan Cogan

 Book Excerpt: " How can one man have two different brains? Then again, how can two men have one? Soraya Wallace arrives home from an o...