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.

Dem Folk At Holy Rock (My Son's Wife Book 10) Kindle Edition by Shelia E. Bell

 Book Excerpt:

"Hezekiah McCoy is a free man in more ways than one. He's roaming around seeking a place to establish "New Holy Rock Ministries" and finds himself a first lady to go along with it. Fancy McCoy is determined to live her best life after being duped by a man who was sent by her ex-husband to humiliate her. Dem McCoy Boys are still making their marks and leaving some unforgettable legacies (not necessarily all good ones). Stiles's visits to Holy Rock are growing more frequent. Is it because of his new position or the new lady in his life?"

Title: Dem Folk At Holy Rock
Author: Shelia E. Bell
Publisher: S.E.B. (July 20, 2020)
Series: My Son's Wife Book 10
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Dem Folk At Holy Rock" by Shelia E. Bell

My Perception:
Be ready for many twists, turns, and drama in this series 10, 'Dem Folk At Holy Rock.' We find Hezekiah starting a new church, Holy Rock Ministries, and wanting to employ his brother Stiles as co-pastoring with him, and he seems to be looking for a new first lady. Pepper marries Xaviar, knowing that he is gay but thinking she could change him. Then there was Ian, who seemed to be there for Xaviar. Let's not leave out Fancy and her new guy, and we find that the story continues on and on, keeping the reader turning the pages to see what was coming next. And all that was left to stay was a horrible wedding, especially in how it ended with Khalil and Eiana. I am not sure who I felt more sorrier for... Pepper, Victoria, and Eliana, to name a few.

By the end of this series, we can see that Holy Rock has so many secrets, deceits, and betrayals that you will shake your head and say, "Wow," at the outrageousness of it all.

To Love Again Kindle Edition by Laura T. Johnson

 Book Excerpt:

"Siobhan Warner never thought she would be able to escape the abuse she suffered at the hands of her boyfriend. Despite the urging of her mother and best friend, she was too much in love to leave him—and was deathly afraid of the repercussions if she did. But her blind loyalty is about to be tested.

Soon, Siobhan awakes in the hospital. She also awakes to Dr. Justice Edmonds. Dr. Edmonds is drawn to Siobhan the moment he sees her. There's something about her that makes his heart skip a beat. And against his better judgment, he wants to find out more about this beautiful woman.
Can Siobhan find the courage to move on and open her heart again, or will her newfound strength cause someone to pay the ultimate price?"

Title:  To Love Again

Author:  Laura T. Johnson

Publisher:  L.T.J.  July 25, 2024

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"To Love Again" by Laura T. Johnson

My Perception:  

'To Love Again' was an intriguing romance, especially for Siobhan Warner and Justice Edmonds. It was interesting to see how these two came together. I am still not sure how I felt about Siobhan as she dealt with that horrible boyfriend, Brian. Did Siobhan know she needed help and couldn't do this alone? She had people around her willing to help her, but for some reason, she loved that guy and thought he would change. How could she trust him after time after time of him beating her? It's a wonder that guy didn't kill her, is all that is left to say. And to think this goes on in our world today.

The story will keep your interest, and you will turn the pages to see what happens next with Siobhan. All that remains is that it was genuinely great that she met Justice Edmonds and listened to his advice as something good came out of that.

Surrender: The Arranged Hearts Series Kindle Edition by Kimberly Brown

 Book Excerpt:

"Kachelle Lewis is tired of waiting for love. As a successful Pediatric Orthodontist, she has everything else going for herself, but the one thing she desires most seems out of reach. Coming home to an empty home has gotten old, and Kachelle longs for companionship. After dating every wrong man, she's decided to put the fate of her love into the hands of Arranged Hearts, a professional matchmaking service, but there is a catch. While she'll be paired with what she hopes is the man of her dreams, she will know nothing about him until she meets him at the altar.

Jacob Mitchell lives a very comfortable lifestyle. As a highly successful author and illustrator of children's books, he's traveled the world and found happiness in material things. For Jacob, all the money in the world can't buy him the one thing he desires most, the love of a good woman. Tired of the shallow side of the dating pool, Jacob is ready to jump into the deep end. When he enlists the help of Arranged Hearts, he isn't sure what he's getting himself into, but he's hopeful that it will lead to him finding the love of his life.

Armed with hope, Kachelle and Jacob meet at the altar. Their attraction is immediate, but is it enough to marry a stranger? If their pairing succeeds, they could live a long and happy life. If it isn't, both could be heartbroken. Will the arranged hearts commit forever, or will "I do" turn into "I Don't?"

Title: Surrender

Author: Kimberly Brown

Publisher: K.B.

Series: The Arranged Hearts Series

Reviewed By: Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Surrender" by Kimberly Brown

'Surrender' is a beautiful romance in which Jacob Mitchell and Kachelle Lewis come together with the help of matchmaking services...Arranged Hearts. We find that both of their parents weren't for them doing this; however, they were firm in what they wanted and, most of all, trusted God. Jacob and Mitchel had jobs and were well over the age of knowing what they wanted, so it was up to them if they chose to go this route. Parents may often think they know the right way, but after it is said and done, it's up to the couple to do as they want, and we find that is what these two did. I loved how Jacob took charge of both of the parents. Thank God Jacob's sister was in his corner. After reading this story, was it the right way for them? Pick up this read to find out.

As said earlier, this story was a beautiful read; everything comes together very well by the end. You must pick up this first series to see how well this author gives it to the reader. It will be enjoyable.

Merc (The Protectors Book 2) Kindle Edition by B. Love

Book Excerpt:

"For a man like Merc, his reputation has always preceded him. Known for his allegiance to the criminal underworld as a protector, the gangster only shows love to his family… and his son and the woman who birthed him are at the top of that list. When Merc decides to take one last job before retiring, he doesn't think it will include protecting a woman he's been trying to avoid but can't seem to get rid of. A woman who softens him and brings out the lover he's kept hidden over the years.

For a woman like Neo, it only takes one lesson to teach her. A bad experience with a man who has a child closes her heart off to dating men with children. It seems fate has other plans… plans that bring her and Merc together three times before they begin to question if they are meant to be.

With a dangerous dealer on the loose, Neo is forced to seek asylum outside of her home and under Merc's protection. Will he prove to be a safe space for her heart romantically, or will he save her life and heart for her to give to someone else?"
 

Title:  Merc

Author:  B. Love

Publisher:  Prolific Pen Pusher 

Series:  The Protectors Book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Merc" by B. Love

My Perception:  

What a story about how these two, Merc[Mercury] and Neo, come together in this good romantic story. With Merc in security, will he be able to keep Neo and a few other people from this story? Be ready for a read with many facets that you must keep up with, especially with some of the things that happened in the story. 

Be ready for a good story about love, where two people find love in the end. Merc was quite a man who was there for the ones he loved. To get this whole story, you must pick up 'Merc' and see how this author brings it out to the readers.

 

Asylum (The Protectors Book 1) Kindle Edition by B. Love

 Book Excerpt:

"Asylum Matthews has devoted his life to his wife, stepdaughter, and the safehouses and protection he provides the city of Memphis. When his wife disappears without a trace, leaving signed divorce papers and her daughter behind, Asylum's world is tilted on its axis.

Dauterive Jersey married the wrong man, and she's suffered silently because of it. The free-spirited, independent woman has been dying for an escape. When she finally dares to divorce her husband, he vows to make her pay with an age-old threat—if he can't have her, no one can.

When Dauterive needs protection, Asylum offers his assistance without knowing who she is or what's going on. The second they are in each other's presence, memories of their time together rush to the surface, allowing a love they stifled to finally breathe again. Will it be easy for this second chance love to bloom, or will it wither and die and put both of their lives on the line?

Title:  Asylum

Author:  B. Love

Publisher:  ‎ Prolific Pen Pusher 

Series:  The Protectors Book 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

'Asylum' by B. Love

My Perception:  

'Asylum' was an interesting read about how Asylum Matthews and Dauterive [Doe] Jenkins, who had been in love many years ago, could finally be together again after all was said and done. There will be a lot going on in this story, so you will have to keep up to see how this second time around came again for these two to be together again. I enjoyed seeing how this man took in and loved another man's child and went to the end to ensure she was well cared for. Indeed, Asylum was a 'protector, lover, and friend.'  Now, to get it all, you will have to pick up this good story to see how well this author does in giving up an exciting read that will keep you turning the pages till the end.

I DESERVE (I Deserve Series) Kindle Edition by Alicia J Evans

 Book Excerpt:

"Will love to conquer all, or will their past prove too great a mountain for them to overcome and finally get what they both deserve?

In this debut love story by Alicia J Evans, we meet Alexia and Evan. Alexia is still recovering from a tumultuous marriage that almost broke her, and Evan still has some strings attached to his past, but their connection when they meet is undeniable. Exploring the complexities of friendships and relationships, I Deserve gives you all the feels and sets you up for the next book in the series."

Title: I Deserve
Author: Alicia J. Evans
Publisher: Wind Beneath My Wings Publishing
Series: I Deserve Series Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
'I Deserve' by Alicia J. Evans

My Perception:

The author delivers a beautifully written and captivating romantic story that will keep readers engaged from beginning to end. The characters, Alexia and Evan, are a perfect match, and their story is filled with love at first sight and captivating drama involving their exes.

If you're in the mood for a heartwarming love story, I highly recommend I Deserve.

Rory: The Lyrical Genius (Life & Music Book 1) Kindle Edition by J.L. Campbell

 Book Excerpt:

"Have you ever been drawn to someone you knew was wrong for you?

That’s Nasira’s dilemma after she wades through Rory McGregg’s fans and sits beside him on a flight. An accomplished dancehall deejay, he’s charming, self-assured, and has a certain vibe that’s hard to resist.

By the time they touch down in Jamaica, Rory has her number and a promise to see him again.

The after-party she says yes to coordinating turns into a rollercoaster ride of frustration and interference, thanks to his celebrity status and bad-boy reputation.

His lifestyle and circumstances make Nasira uneasy, but Rory’s heart is fixed. There’s nothing he won’t do to prove they’re right for each other."

Title: Rory: The Lyrical Genius
Author: J. L. Cambell
Publisher: The Writers' Suite
Series: Life & Music Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Rory: The Lyrical Genius" by J. L. Campbell

My Sentiments:

'Rory' was a good story that will keep one's attention turning the pages to see what is coming next for these two...Rory and Nasira. From reading one will see how that Rory was the one for Nasira...with her stuck-up and stubborn self. I can see why she has had problems in her previous relationships. I will say she grew on me. As we will see Rory is a celebrity, and Nasira is a businesswoman who is trying not to get involved with him. How will these two complex individuals come together in a relationship?

However, Rory wanted Nasira and was determined to get her for himself. The story will be quite a ride with all the drama, and twists and turns before we get to the end to see if they get toward the HEA. Pick up this good read to see how well this author brings it all out to the reader. It will be a good read.

revised due to Amazon...

'Rory' is a good story of two interesting complex people...Rory and Nasira that will keep one's attention all the way through the captivating story.   Be ready for a dramatic story with some spice as these two find their way with each other in this well-written story.  Will they find the HEA in the end?  Well, this is where I say you will have to pick up this good read to see how well this author brings it out to the reader.

Smoke (The Enigma Series Book 1) Kindle Edition by Aja

 Book Excerpt:

"Mystery, crime, and grit surrounded his family, often bringing power-hungry enemies to his doorstep. Never one to back down from any opposition, he often stood victorious. But this new threat is different and not at all one he is prepared for until an old love comes to save him.

Elijah Lewis, aka "Smoke," has to decide what to do with the gift of knowledge he's received. Does he deliver more pain to the people responsible for trying to take him out, or does he take well-meaning advice and get out of this line of work? For people like him, there were only so many places he could go, and the top two were: to jail or hell."

The Enigma Series is a new crime romance series by Aja. Visit ajathewriter.com to sign up for her newsletter for more updates.

Title: Smoke
Author: Aja
Publisher: She Loves Words Publishing LLC
Series: The Enigma Series Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Smoke" by Aja

My Assessment:

The author gives the reader quite a read with 'Smoke' where your attention will be there from the beginning till the end...wanting more. Indeed, the man, Smoke, and his family had a lot going on, and it was good to see how well they handled it. Then with Aaliyah coming into the picture, everything seemed right between these two, even with the age difference. Then, having Zora, Smoke's former wife, come into the picture was quite interesting. Will Smoke be able to listen to what Zora has said to him will be pretty interesting? Because I don't think we want to see what will happen when the beast is unleashed by Smoke[Elijah] due to the death of his friend. But we will have to wait and see what happens next in this series.

The Love We Seek: A Forbidden Love Story (The Love Series Book 1) Kindle Edition by B. Love

 Book Excerpt:

"*Please note: This is a 56,000 word standalone novel in a three-part series. Each book has a happy ending. There are no continuations. Each book features a different couple and can be read in any order.*

"People die or leave when you need them most. Nothing is ever certain. Nothing is ever sure." – Kailor Smith

When Kailor Smith's mother dies, her life crumbles. Completely. Still looking out for her in death, Asia sends Kailor on a journey of self-discovery. The journey, meant to be a six-month path of fun and finding purpose, leads Kailor to Finley Trails, where she temporarily lives with her brother Kai… and his best friend and bandmate Zion Johnson.

Zion Johnson is convinced that he has only two things to offer the world – his music and manhood. Nothing more, like love, but definitely nothing less. After losing his parents at a young age, he's convinced it's his job to protect every damsel that comes his way. Even his best friend's sister. No matter how much his best friend wants, him to stay away.

As Kailor and Zion's paths collide, they find themselves on a journey of healing and love together. There's just one problem; their union is forbidden. Not only could their relationship destroy Zion and Kai's friendship, but it also has the potential to ruin their band and all of the success they've built. The odds are stacked against them, and for a while, they are even at war with their own feelings, but Kailor and Zion must choose between love or the numbing pain they have both accepted as their truths."

Title: The Love We Seek: A Forbidden Love Story
Author: B. Love
Publisher: B. Love Publications
Series: The Love Series Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Love We Seek" by B. Love

My Assessment:

"The Love We Seek" was a good love story featuring Kailor and Zion. What will happen after Kailor Smith's mother dies, sending her on a six-month journey of self-discovery. What will Kailor find on this ride after he goes to stay with her brother Kai in Finley Trails and meets his best friend and bandmate Zion Johnson?
Will there be a change in Zion's way of living after these two lives collide, finding themselves healing and loving each other? How will these two being together caused trouble in this relationship between this brother and sister? That brother of Kailor needed to but out, even though he felt the need of being able to help his sister, but was he helping? The reader can be left with the thought that Kai needs a life of his own and to let his sister live her life. Be ready for 'some sad parts, emotional, connection, commitment, friendship, communication, forgiveness, and heartbreak' from this read as Kailor makes off their bucket list items that her mom had left her to do. To understand this good read, the reader will have to pick up 'The Love We Seek' to see how well this author brings us an epic love story.

Let Your Love Fall Like Rain Kindle Edition by Mya

Book Excerpt:

" From childhood trauma and neglect to become a prominent figure in the corporate world, Alana Allen was never one to complain about the obstacles life put in her way. One night, she allows temptation to get the best of her, betraying one of the few people who had her back through it all. 000000,,

Charles Davis was every woman’s dream man. He was wealthy, handsome, a loving father, and had a sex drive out of this world. The only problem was that his wife, Christina, did not see eye to eye when pleasing him. With an unsatisfying marriage, Charles feels neglected and suffocated in his marriage, wanting more. One fateful night, he succumbs to the temptation of another woman, allowing her to fill a void in his life that made him feel whole again.

Rain comes out of the blue in unexpected waves. It’s brutal and blinding if one falls victim to the storm, similar to the love shared by Alana and Charles. One minute he’s a happily married man, the next, he’s having an affair with someone half his age. Lust and temptation combine to create a passion-filled tale of a forbidden romance. Will they get their happy ending?"

Title: Let Your Love Fall Like Rain
Author: Mya
Publisher: B. Love Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Let Your Love Fall Like Rain" by Mya
My Opinion:

"Let Your Love Fall Like Rain" was quite some read that kept me shaking my head and saying, wow! It was hard to conceive that an adult would want to have a relationship with a child such as Alana was to him, especially with his own daughter's best friend. After some thirty years with his wife Christiana, how could this happen...but it did. The outcome of it all seemed to have worked out after the daughter Cari who was out of control for a bit, finally came around, but still, the story left me in awe of it all—and then moving on with Alana's parents...oh my goodness, what a mess! If you love drama, then this one is for you because drama is all over the place in this story. If there are lessons to be learned...well, you will have to pick up this one to see for yourself if you can find one. The author gives the readers a story that will provide much thought to ponder over after the read.