Shafted (Bishop Cliffs Book 1) Kindle Edition by S.I. Hayes & (Author), J. Haney

 Book Excerpt:

"Your Business is Everybody’s Business in a Small Town.

Ten years ago, Willow Kennedy and Reid McHale were in love. Then College and life got in the way, tearing them apart.
After finding her fiancé in bed with a floozy, Willow is convinced to go home for her class reunion, her one hope, NOT to see Reid McHale.

So much for that.

Reid McHale, having wasted years in the mines, is a bit bitter. After running into Willow, quite literally, he tries all he can to avoid the woman who broke his heart, but this small-town man can’t seem to shake her.
What’s worse, the attraction between them is all-consuming and unavoidable.
Can it work for these once upon a time lover, or will the whole relationship simply get the Shaft?"

Strong Sexual Situations
Strong Language
Drug Reference
Violence

Title: Shafted
Author: S.I. Hayes & J. Haney
Publisher: Haney/Hayes Books
Series: Bishop Cliffs Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Shafted" by S.I. Hayes & J. Haney

My Opinion:

'Shafted' was a good read about how things can go in a small town as it did for Willow and Reid. Willow coming back to her hometown after ten years, will she be prepared for will lives ahead for her? What will happen after her friend Jasper talks Willow into coming back home to her school reunion and she runs into the one person she wanted to avoid? Get ready for a fun read, and the reader will meet some exciting characters that will give one a good that will keep one turning the pages to see what was coming next. I will say I loved all of the characters except for that ex-finance. Be ready for a story that will dwell on several issues besides Willow and Reid, but all come together, giving the readers one good story. In the end, will these one-time lovers be able to work it all out, or 'will the whole relationship simply get the 'Shaft?' This is where I say you will have to pick up 'Shafted' to see how it all comes out.

The Price of Dreams: Faith & Fortune 3 Kindle Edition by Toni Shiloh

Book Excerpt:

"Ballet has always been my life, but one terrible moment may have destroyed everything I’ve worked so hard for—especially my title of Octavia Ricci, principal ballerina. I thought for sure my physical therapist, Dr. Noah Wright, could help me obtain my dream once more, but he wants more than I’m prepared to give.

I’ve seen firsthand the trials of interracial relationships. I’m a product of one myself and promised I’d never put my hopefully-someday kids through that drama. Everyone keeps telling me to let go of other people’s expectations, but I’m just not sure I can. Besides, if my dreams of returning to ballet are futile, what hope is there in seeking unconditional love?"

The Price of Dreams is the third and final book in the Christian Chick Lit series: Faith & Fortune.

Title: The Price of Dreams
Author: Toni Shiloh
Publisher: T.S.
Series: Faith & Fortune Book 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"The Price of Dreams" by Toni Shiloh

The Speculation:

I have enjoyed this whole series of Faith & Fortune being so well-written by this author. As in this one, the stories all seem so real and relatable in this interracial relationship as it was for Octavia and Noah. It was so good seeing Octavia finally getting a lover in her life. With an African American mom and a white Italian dad, one could see her thoughts as the truth will come out; where did this really affect her parent's marriage? It was great seeing how Octavia's faith deepen as she gets closer to God with her many thoughts in wanting to please him. So from Octavia's injury and healing, the new relationship with Noah, a new job, and God in her life, how will this all turn out for them? This is where I will say you will have to pick up "The Price of Dreams" to see how well this heartwarming romance will turn out.

How Hard Can It Be? A Novel by Allison Pearson

Book Description...

"Allison Pearson's brilliant debut novel, I Don't Know How She Does It, was a New York Times bestseller with four million copies sold around the world. Called "the definitive social comedy of working motherhood" (The Washington Post) and "a hysterical look—in both the laughing and crying senses of the world—at the life of Supermom" (The New York Times), I Don't Know How She Does It introduced Kate Reddy, a woman as sharp as she was funny. As Oprah Winfrey put it, Kate's story became "the national anthem for working mothers."

Seven years later, Kate Reddy is facing her 50th birthday. Her children have turned into impossible teenagers; her mother and in-laws are in precarious health; and her husband is having a midlife crisis that leaves her desperate to restart her career after years away from the workplace. Once again, Kate is scrambling to keep all the balls in the air in a juggling act that an early review from the U.K. Express hailed as "sparkling, funny, and poignant...a triumphant return for Pearson."

Will Kate reclaim her rightful place at the very hedge fund she founded, or will she strangle in her new “shaping” underwear? Will she rekindle an old flame, or will her house burn to the ground when a rowdy mob shows up for her daughter’s surprise (to her parents) Christmas party? Surely it will all work out in the end. After all, how hard can it be?"

Title:  How Hard Can It Be?

Author:  Allison Pearson

Publisher:  St. Martin's Press

Series:  Kate Reddy, #2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"How Hard Can It Be?"  by Allison Pearson

My Thoughts....

Well how 'How Hard Can It Be" for Kate Reddy who is close to her 50th birthday?  Let's see just what all she has before her:  having to lie about her age as she is returning to the workforce due to the fact that her husband [Richard] is out there where he has distant [self-centered], into self help books and bike riding [midlife crisis].  Along with this Kate's daughter has gone on internet and posted a 'inappropriate photos' of herself, then we go on to aging parents [his parents and her mom] and lastly having to deal with menopause.  So, just from all of this the reader can see that a lots has been thrown on Kate.  Oh, I don't want to forget to add more to Kate's woes, a person [Jack Abelhammer] from her past has come into the scene so what will that bring to this story?  So, will this story be a 'recipe for disaster, laughs and some heartwarming moment?

"How Hard Can It Be?" was quite a engaging, poignant read where a lots of what Kate Reddy had to go through was very relatable for many who have tackled many of these issues. I thought this novel was a good read that was not only well written, , clever and yes very real' that I would recommend as a good read.

Forever Is The Worst Long Time By: Camille Pagan

Book Description....

"From acclaimed author Camille Pagán comes a wry, heartfelt exploration of love and loss.

When struggling novelist James Hernandez meets poet Louisa “Lou” Bell, he’s sure he’s just found the love of his life. There’s just one problem: she’s engaged to his oldest friend, Rob. So James toasts their union and swallows his desire.

As the years pass, James’s dreams always seem just out of reach—he can’t finish that novel, can’t mend his relationship with his father, can’t fully commit to a romantic relationship. He just can’t move on. But after betrayal fractures Lou’s once-solid marriage, she turns to James for comfort.

When Lou and James act on their long-standing mutual attraction, the consequences are more heartbreaking—and miraculous—than either of them could have ever anticipated. Then life throws James one more curveball, and he, Rob, and Lou are forced to come to terms with the unexpected ways in which love and loss are intertwined."

Title:  Forever Is The Worst Long Time

Author:  Camille Pagan

Publisher:  Lake Union Publishing

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Forever Is The Worst Long Time" by Camille Pagan

My Thoughts....

This was a read of emotions, love, friendship, betrayal, tragic, loss,regret, forgiveness with three main characters: James, Lou and Rob who were all far from perfect.  With their stupid mistakes they made, along with some crazy decisions will they ever be able to stop all of the hurting that is going on among these friends? This author gives the reader quite a complex plot that is well developed with surprises that goes in unexpected ways with surprises, celebrations as well as disappointments that will have you at some time shaking your head.  By the end  of this story the reader gets quite a heart breaking, wrenching story that will also be very thought provoking and also engaging read from 'lack of closeness in relations, ruined friendships, death and loss'.  What else can be said about this story is the choices that one makes in there life can turn out to be short and or long term consequences.  'Life is short and it is what you make of it... for one must make it count.'

Rich People Problems By: Kevin Kwan

Book Description....

"Kevin Kwan, bestselling author of Crazy Rich Asians and China Rich Girlfriend, is back with an uproarious new novel of a family riven by fortune, an ex-wife driven psychotic with jealousy, a battle royal fought through couture gown sabotage, and the heir to one of Asia's greatest fortunes locked out of his inheritance. 

When Nicholas Young hears that his grandmother, Su Yi, is on her deathbed, he rushes to be by her bedside--but he's not alone. It seems the entire Shang-Young clan has convened from all corners of the globe, ostensibly to care for their matriarch but truly to stake claim on the massive fortune that Su Yi controls. With each family member secretly fantasizing about getting the keys to Tyersall Park--a trophy estate on 64 prime acres in the heart of Singapore--the place becomes a hotbed of intrigue and Nicholas finds himself blocked from entering the premises. As relatives claw over heirlooms, Astrid Leong is at the center of her own storm, desperately in love with her old sweetheart Charlie Wu, but tormented by his ex-wife--a woman hell bent on destroying Astrid's reputation and relationship. Meanwhile Kitty Pong, married to billionaire Jack Bing, finds a formidable opponent in his fashionista daughter, Colette. A sweeping novel that takes us from the elegantly appointed mansions of Manila to the secluded private islands in the Sulu Sea, from a schoolyard kidnapping to a gold-leaf dance floor spattered with blood, Kevin Kwan's gloriously wicked new novel reveals the long-buried secrets and rich people problems of Asia's most privileged families."

Title:  Rich People Problems

Author:  Kevin Kwan

Publisher:  Doubleday

Series:  Crazy Rich Asians # 3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Rich People Problems" by Kevin Kwan

My Thoughts...

This author gives the reader in this third book in the Crazy Rich Asians series a read of great drama, some hilarious laughs with some characters, wonderful vacations spots, entertainment and scenic descriptions[clothing and jewelry] that will really have you thinking you are looking at a movie right in front of you.  What wacky antics that this large family seems to have that will keep you turning the pages to its conclusion to a hilarious series. Be prepared to read of a 'dysfunctional, paranoid, social climbing crazies with some ridiculous fun.' This will be one intriguing, incredible and entertaining read that I would recommend to the readers.

The Simplicity of Cider by Amy E. Reichert

Book Description.....

"Fall in love with The Simplicity of Cider, the charming new novel about a prickly but gifted cider-maker whose quiet life is interrupted by the arrival of a handsome man and his young son at her family’s careworn orchard by the author of The Coincidence of Coconut Cake and Luck, Love & Lemon Pie.

Focused and unassuming fifth generation cider-maker Sanna Lund has one desire: to live a simple, quiet life on her family’s apple orchard in Door County, Wisconsin. Although her business is struggling, Sanna remains fiercely devoted to the orchard, despite her brother’s attempts to convince their aging father to sell the land.

Single dad Isaac Banks has spent years trying to shield his son Sebastian from his troubled mother. Fleeing heartbreak at home, Isaac packed up their lives and the two headed out on an adventure, driving across the country. Chance—or fate—led them straight to Sanna’s orchard.

Isaac’s helping hands are much appreciated at the apple farm, even more when Sanna’s father is injured in an accident. As Sanna’s formerly simple life becomes increasingly complicated, she finds solace in unexpected places—friendship with young Sebastian and something more deliciously complex with Isaac—until an outside threat infiltrates the farm.

From the warm and funny Amy E. Reichert, The Simplicity of Cider is a charming love story with a touch of magic, perfect for fans of Sarah Addison Allen and Gayle Forman."

Title:  The Simplicity of Cider

Author:  Amy E. Reichert

Publisher:  Gallery Books

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"The Simplicity of Cider" by Amy E. Reichert

My Thoughts....

The readers are in for a good read about cider making, the love of a family and to one who is getting away from CA for the summer with his son then you are in for a good read.  This author really works her magic in giving the readers a good read  about 'family, dedications, ambition, challenges, struggles, suspense and love that takes place in Door County, Wisconsin.  The main characters from Sanna, Einers, Isaac to Bass...all are some very complex but so relatable to any one.  Along with all of this the readers will be given a story from "The irritating casserole making neighbor,the brother...only wants to sell the orchard, the villain who wants to turn the orchard into a water park and the irritating ex of Sanna's who is sabotaging the orchard" all make this story such a interesting read. Now add all that is going on with Isaac and his son Bass along with the tremendous food descriptions the readers will get one heck of a good heartwarming read.  In the end will Sanna be able to save her beloved orchard that she truly loved and will Sanna and Isaac end up finding each other? To get all the questions answered and so much more the reader will have to pick up this enjoyable read "The Simplicity of Cider" to see how this author will bring it all out to the reader.

Disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Always By: Sarah Jio

Book Description....

"From the New York Times bestselling author of Blackberry Winter and The Violets of March comes a gripping, poignant novel about the kind of love that never lets go, and the heart's capacity to remember.

While enjoying a romantic candlelit dinner with her fiance, Ryan, at one of Seattle's chicest restaurants, Kailey Crane can't believe her good fortune: She has a great job as a writer for the Herald and is now engaged to a guy who is perfect in nearly every way. As they leave the restaurant, Kailey spies a thin, bearded homeless man on the sidewalk. She approaches him to offer up her bag of leftovers, and is stunned when their eyes meet, then stricken to her very core: The man is the love of her life, Cade McAllister.

When Kailey met Cade ten years ago, their attraction was immediate and intense everything connected and felt "right." But it all ended suddenly, leaving Kailey devastated. Now the poor soul on the street is a faded version of her former beloved: His weathered and weary face is as handsome as Kailey remembers, but his mind has suffered in the intervening years. Over the next few weeks, Kailey helps Cade begin to piece his life together, something she initially keeps from Ryan. As she revisits her long-ago relationship, Kailey realizes that she must decide exactly what and whom she wants.

Alternating between the past and the present, Always is a beautifully unfolding exploration of a woman faced with an impossible choice, a woman who discovers what she's willing to save and what she will sacrifice for true love."

Title:  Always

Author:  Sarah Jio

Publisher:  Ballantine

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Always" by Sarah Jio

My Thoughts...

What a interesting read that seemed to have blended the past and the present together into one good read about Kailey Crain, Cade McAllister, once the love of her life and now her fiancee, Ryan.
For ten years Cade had been missing but Kailey finds him by giving a meal outside a restaurant to the homeless person only to find out that was Cade who had disappeared.  The story will go back and forth until Kailey decides to look for him and again finds him and with a friend helps get him into a program discovering he had traumatic head injuries.   Now, will this present problems with her fiancee?  There will be a lots of things going on in this story with Kailey that seems like a lots of dishonesty in how she really felt about Cade but did she tell Ryan how she really felt?  Was she really being truthful with Ryan or keeping a secret?   Was Kailey really in love with Ryan...her fiancee or her ex boyfriend...Cade?  Well, to find out all the answers to these and many more questions you will have to pick "Always" and see how it comes out. Be prepared for a good love story with lots of 'twist and turns,  mystery, forgiveness, turmoils, loss, and drug abuse' with a some predictability, but still a good read. This author did a good job at looking at the homeless and mentally ill who many find themselves on the streets.  I will say that ending was a little strange but I know anything can happen as it will for Kailey as 'no one forgets their first love, good or bad' and especially second chance romances.    

This Too Shall Pass By: Milena Busquest

Book Description.....

"A “literary tsunami” that is taking the world by storm—already sold in over 30 countries—about one unforgettable woman’s search for a meaningful life

Blanca is forty years old and motherless. Shaken by the unexpected death of the most important person in her life, she suddenly realizes that she has no idea what her future will look like.

To ease her dizzying grief and confusion, Blanca turns to her dearest friends, her closest family, and a change of scenery. Leaving Barcelona behind, she returns to Cadaqués on the coast, accompanied by her two sons, two ex-husbands, and two best friends, and makes a plan to meet her married lover for a few stolen moments as well. Surrounded by those she loves most, she spends the summer in an impossibly beautiful place, finding ways to reconnect and understand what it means to truly, happily live on her own terms, just as her mother would have wanted.

A fresh, honest, and ruefully funny story about love, sex, marriage, grief, friendship and parenthood, This Too Shall Pass is an irresistible novel that is fast becoming an international phenomenon."

Title:  This Too Shall Pass

Author:  Milena Busquets

Publisher:  Hogart

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"This Too Shall Pass" by Milena Busquest  

My View:

I found this novel "This Too Shall Pass" one good thought provoking emotional story that kept my attention turning the pages to the end.  Just how Blanca was able to cope with her life after the death of her mother was quite a painful due to the fact that they had been so close. Blanca's father had died when she was a teenager. Now she was a orphan.  How will she handle this loss? Blanca who was forty will have quite a hard time coming to terms with her mom's death. So deciding to visit her childhood home at seashore thinking it will help her grief and that 'volatile life Blanca had with her mom.'  I did found it quite strange but she took her two sons, two ex-husbands, two best friends and her now married lover [Santi] with her on her trip. Oh Santi was already there in this town with his wife and family!  But as I kept reading I think I did understand some of her reasoning... a little. Was this a journey for Blanca of  'self-rediscovery even though it was a dark subject[death]?  Will she be able to find the meaning of life after she came in contact with some old friends....oh yes, there was plenty of  drugs, sex and a lot of alcohol involved.  But will this help her get over her grief with her life seeming to be so turned upside down with this sudden changes in her life?  I liked how this author delivers to the reader as she presents this daughter speaking about her life and journey to her dead mom. I really found myself caught up in the journey of Blanca's 'despair, discovery and life.'

I was able to understand a little from the read as this mother [for I had my mom taken from me at 39] who had died had seemed to let her child...Blanca 'remain a little girl' even though she was forty years old. As I read through this novel I wondered had that happened to me?  Oh well moving on with this story now that her mom was gone was Blanca having trouble growing up?  I will say for all of you that have not experienced a good relationship with your mom you  may not understand this read and it could leave one somewhat depressed. 

As this story continues I find it is narrated by this main character [Blanca] giving off a lots of  'sarcasm and some dark humor.'  I find Blanca 'angry, lost and willing to try anything that would fill the void of the loss' in her life which seems like she finds a lots of comfort in 'bad things' that were not good for her.  

Even though I found the quick short story and somewhat depressing, however, I was able to understand a lots of what Blanca was going through and I found it one well told story, being 'sad but in the end well affirming and oh so hopeful.'  To get all of these questions answered you will have to pick up the novel and see how this author presents it to the readers.  

I think this author did a wonderful job with what she was trying to put out there for the reader to grab hold to about love and loss.  I was lead to think that maybe the only thing that had made Blanca happy was her mom and now she was gone everything else really didn't have any meaning at all. 'Who are we when we lose the one who defines us?'  Oh, well...those are my thoughts...I enjoyed the novel...."This Too Shall Pass."    

Strawberry Wine By: Darly Jamison

Book Description....

"How do you know if a first love is made to last?
Addison Monroe was eighteen when she fell for Jake Grady, a college student working on her family s farm for the summer. With his sapphire eyes and killer smile, Jake could have had any girl in Lakeside, Georgia. But he wanted Addy, and for those brief, wonderful months before circumstances drove them irrevocably apart they belonged to each other.
Ten years later, Addy is engaged to a doctor and working in Atlanta as a physician s assistant. Life feels full and satisfying. Yet memories of that long-ago summer and wine-flavored kisses are hard to shake. On a return visit to Lakeside, Addy crosses paths with Jake again, and soon finds herself at an unexpected crossroads. So much has changed, and Addy has chosen another route. And the magic of first love can never be rekindled...can it?"

Title:  Strawberry Wine

Author:  Darly Jamison

Publisher:  Zebra Shout

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Strawberry Wine" by Darly Jamison

My Viewpoint...

Looking for a novel with a romance with lots of twist and turns that will definitely keep you wondering what will happen next...then you are at the right place for "Strawberry Wine" will give it all to you. I liked how this author was able to give us a emotional story that was told using 'flashbacks' of a first love and heartache.  So, what will happen as Addy and Jake meet again in this small town and rediscover that their is still a bond between them? 

The main characters...Addison [Addy] and Jake gives the readers  one sweet love story. Getting these two together was simply a work of art. I liked how this author gives the reader a witty banter which gives us a delightful read that felt so real and how this story deals with the prologue, then the past,  the present and then on to the epilogue. Yes, this story will skip around so be aware of that and in the end you get these two peoples story being told so well that you can even 'smell the intoxicating strawberry wine.'  This is one read that you may find yourself tearing up, smiling and also laughing! 

Many of the other characters were all well developed and relatable but one of my favorite people was Addy's grandmother, Mags who was a 'serious matchmaker, cook extraordinaire and a advice dispenser all rolled up into one' giving the reader a intriguing read that you will keep turning the pages until the end. Oops, I don't want to leave out another character I liked and that brought a lots to the read and that was Ruby. 

"Strawberry Wine" will give the reader a sweet and spicy love story of how Addy and Jake 'navigate through tender moments and heartbreaks of their romantic love'  all tied together in one well written read.

Feelin' Bitchy By: Faith Weathers

Book Description...

"It's a thin line between love and hate and it can also be dangerous when a woman loses herself in a man. Denver learns this firsthand when she gets her heart broken and it turns her world upside down. The death of a dream can make a woman do some crazy things. Denver trades in her smile for a resting bitch face as she struggles with her new reality. She has to face some of her issues that brought her to this place. Will she bounce back from the hurt and pain or will she remain bitter? Sometimes the very thing you need is right in front of you, but when you are blinded by pain and regret, it’s hard to see it. This is Denver's journey to find her way back to herself after she's lost herself along the way. Will Denver learn from her mistakes and move on with her life? Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. Can Denver move past this or will she remain Feelin' Bitchy?"

Title:  Feelin' Bitchy
Author:  Faith
Publisher:  Pen Bullies LLC
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Feelin' Bitchy"  by Faith

My Viewpoint....

What  a very serious read that was so real in that it happens daily  in this world we live in that many women have experienced.  This was a good story line even sometimes morbid at times however it will keep your attention till the end giving you a read about 'friendship, relationships, drama and the struggle of one trying to reach their dreams.' The characters in the novel were well...some were definitely unbelievable in what one would do in letting someone get over on them....as it was for Denver.  I was left wondering how could a woman [Denver] let a man [JMac/Johnathan] degrade her so very much that it left her life in such a mess.  It seemed like she wasn't even able to recognize someone that was right in front of her that loved her.  Why was Denver at times so mean to Marco especially after all he had done for her?  Did all of this have anything to do with why Denver starting to 'Feelin' Bitchy?' Was Denver a different person due to what she had done for someone she thought loved her? I can see how this author came up with a excellent title for this story. It definitely fits the story.   Now, from this read the reader will get some good well developed people...like Yummy, Marco, Ms Kitty, Ms Verdi, and Tao to  name a few  that all had their own stories too. Yummy was Denver's best friend and indeed crazy but who seemed to be their for her through the thick and the thin definitely telling her just how it was but will Denver listen?  I can see through this story that Denver had a hard life and just wanted a family and for some reason she thought that this JMac was it.  Will Denver take even Ms. Verdi's and Ms. Kitty's  advice about having a choice and happiness? Will Denver finally get a new dream that she can live with and be happy?  As this story will go back and forth the reader will get one well told story that is full of many twist and turns. This is definitely a read that will have you laughing, screaming and even crying.  "Will Denver learn from her mistakes and move on with her life? Oh my what a ending!  Well, when it's all said and done how will this story truly  turn out for Denver?  To get all the answers you will have to pick up part two of this read because this one is 'To be continued.........'
  

Searching for Ever Land By: Karen Sloan-Brown

Book Description....


"Portia Roberts was in a day-to-day struggle to recover from the tragedy that tore her family apart. Desperate for a way out from under the dark cloud that constantly hovered above her; a major event on the news captures her curiosity and convinces her that there is a path to regain her peace of mind. Her odyssey carries her back and forth between her past and present before she can move on to her future. Go with Portia on her supernatural quest for healing and happiness, it's dramatic, sexy, funny, and full of surprises."

Title:  Searching for Ever Land
Author:  Karen Sloan-Brown
Publisher:  Brown Reflections
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Searching for Ever Land" by Karen Sloan-Brown

My Thoughts.....

Now this was one of those reads that will definitely keep your attention.  Keeping up with Portia Roberts who 'struggle to recover from a tragedy that cause separation from her husband.'  I found this read quite a interesting one as this author lets the reader see deep into Portia's life.  In doing so we are able to see deep into  her mind as she seeks release using a drug called propofol, Now this is quite a story of how Portia hears about this drug...from the death of 'Michael Jackson.'  Was this what he had used that ending his life?  Well, it seems that after the death of her son Nickolas and with her husband leaving her she had a horrible time sleeping and after hearing about propofol Portia was left wondering about its experience she would having in taking it. This story will get real deep presenting the reader with what all Portia did in order to get this drug.  Would you believe she even left her investment job for a job working  in a hospital in order to meet the right doctor who could possible get this drug for her?  Well, we get quite a story of how Portia meet up with Keith, David and George. From those three characters we get quite a intriguing story. Take my word each one had their own story to tell.  Will Portia be able to get this drug and if she does what affect will all of this have that will affect on her life [with her daughter, husband and even her sister]. Will  a therapist be able to understand what in the world is going on with Portia?  Well, I don't want to tell too much more other than saying as the story goes on as  her husband will reenter back into the picture after two and a half years that will present some other tensions into this messy story that leads to a divorce.  I found all of the characters well developed, portrayed and very believable giving the reader one interesting page turner of a read.

The author did a wonderful job in presenting this story to the reader.  I was able to learn quite a bit about the drug 'propofol' through this read.

 Being able to zoom out of your mind and see past images, present, future and to have sweet dreams but I know again this is quite a dangerous thing to do. What one will go through to seek relieve in ones life  but in the end will they have the happiness and the release they need?  Will this be enough for Portia as the read will show what she will do in the end?  Even though Portia  thought this would be her last time using this drug if it wasn't for that nosy neighbor....well you will just have to pick this one up to see for yourself as Portia "Searches for Ever Land." will she finally get that HEA?   I did feel that the ending was rather rushed but interesting where the reader will get  one  'dramatic, sexy, funny story that is full of surprises that will keep your attention.

I wanted to add that the book cover is simply beautiful and Thank You to the author for the gift of "Searching for Ever Land" for me giving my honest opinion of the read.

Always a Bridesmaid By: Karen Sloan-Brown

Book Description....

"Tia King knows she's a "total package," attractive, trustworthy, personable, a great cook, and educated, only one semester away from earning her Ph.D. But like Billy Dee Williams said in the movie, Mahogany, "Success is nothing without someone you love to share it with!" Men had always been drawn to her like black folks to a picnic but the relationships never lasted. She was way past tired of standing up as a bridesmaid watching her girlfriends walk down the aisle one after another. It's time for her to find a job making some real money and the man of her dreams, except every time she gets close to either something stands in her way."

Title:  Always a Bridesmaid
Author:  Karen Sloan-Brown
Publisher:  Brown Reflections
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Always a Bridesmaid" by Karen Sloan-Brown

My Thoughts....

This young lady Tia Annette King had several goals in her mind but will she be able to get that 'total package' that she so dearly wanted.  Being a educated woman with a Ph. D. from Tennessee State University, surely getting a job wouldn't be a problem for her...or would it?  Also after being a bridesmaid so often in her girlfriends weddings, surely she would find 'the man of her dreams.' Or was that to be for Dr. Tia King?  Truly having boy friends had never seemed to be a problem for Tia even though she was a little on the heavy side, but it seemed like it never got passed that step [boyfriend] for her.  Now, why was this?  Let see...it has been truly a journey for Tia with all of the boyfriends she had in her lifetime and she was in her thirty's and definitely wanted more out of life.  Let's travel through a few of Ms. Tia's guy friends...now their was Wayne, Tim [her first serious boyfriend], Charles, Reggie, Tony, Curtis, Gary, Jason [just friend], Stephen, Kevin, Earnest, [Randy, Earl, Darnell...from online] and finally Michael [I hope I didn't leave anyone out]! Now, I can only say you will have to read this well written story to see for yourself just how particular Tia was in finally landing someone who 'was tall,dark, handsome, employed, educated, trustworthy, dependable, and sexually attracted to her.'  I definitely have to mention that Tia had several girlfriends that were wonderful [Yvonne, Denise] however, one friend that truly stood out [Jazz] who was their with her along this long tedious journey of being their for her in the midst of it all.  I would say I only wished for such a person in my life [a true friend]. That may not make a whole lot of sense but it does to me and I am sure the reader will see this thought pattern also as you read through from this wonderful novel. It was quite interesting as this author brings it all out to just why Tia's relationships had never lasted.  I will close now and only say Wow...what a read!  You will have to keep up because this author gives the reader a lot to absorb...from a ailing mother to a daughter finally 'listening to her Pastor..."Let the man find you, and don't go chasing every Tim, James and Larry."  So, will Dr. Tia Annette King finally get her HEA?  You will just have to pick up the read to see for yourself!

Thank you to the author for the gift of the novel for me giving my honest opinion of "Always a Bridesmaid."    

Close Enough to Touch By: Colleen Oakley

Book Description....

"From the author of Before I Go comes an unconventional love story perfect for fans of the emotional novels of Jodi Picoult and Jojo Moyes.

One time a boy kissed me and I almost died...

And so begins the story of Jubilee Jenkins, a young woman with a rare and debilitating medical condition: she’s allergic to other humans. After a humiliating near-death experience in high school, Jubilee has become a recluse, living the past nine years in the confines of the small town New Jersey house her unaffectionate mother left to her when she ran off with a Long Island businessman. But now, her mother is dead, and without her financial support, Jubilee is forced to leave home and face the world—and the people in it—that she’s been hiding from.

One of those people is Eric Keegan, a man who just moved into town for work. With a daughter from his failed marriage who is no longer speaking to him, and a brilliant, if psychologically troubled, adopted son, Eric’s struggling to figure out how his life got so off-course, and how to be the dad—and man—he wants so desperately to be. Then, one day, he meets a mysterious woman named Jubilee, with a unique condition...

Close Enough to Touch is an evocative, poignant, and heartrending exploration of the power and possibilities of the human heart."

Title:  Close Enough to Touch

Author:  Colleen Oakley

Publisher:   Art to Artist, LLC.

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Four

Review:

"Close Enough to Touch" by Colleen Oakley

My Thoughts....

What a unique story this was of a Jubilee Jenkins being allergic to actual human contact and not leaving her home for nine years [living like a hermit].  However, after the death of her mother Jubilee will be forced to the outside world to get a job.  It was quite interesting as she will meet old and new people and also develop a romance, however Jubilee will not be able to touch. What will happen when she meets this 'precocious little boy Aja [saving him and almost dying herself] and his father Eric?  It was quite interesting how this author brings Eric into the picture being a divorced father who was dealing with a lot of his own issues. My, how I liked how Jubilee who had cut herself off from the world could be there to help Eric especially in that part of being able to help him connect with his children. I found this author really works her magic with some of those sensual scenes of how these two were able to show their love for each other.  But is this to be for these two?   I will say the ending wasn't what I would have expected, however it did fit this story completion giving the reader a good read of  'depth, humor, tension, warmth, romance, parental guilt, development, fear and emotion.'  How will this story end? Will there be a HEA?  Well, this is where I say you will have to pick up the good read to see how this author brings its all out so very well to the readers.  Was this story a little predictable at times?  Yes, but it still was a good interesting warm intriguing read.

The Ladies' Room By: Carolyn Brown

Book Description.....

"Secrets told in the church ladies' room are supposed to stay in the ladies' room. But that doesn't mean that what Trudy overhears there during her great-aunt Gertrude's funeral won't change the rest of her life.
Trudy has a daughter in the middle of a major rebellion; a two-timing husband who has been cheating for their entire married life; and a mother with Alzheimer's residing in the local nursing home. She doesn't really need a crumbling old house about to fall into nothing but a pile of memories and broken knickknacks.
Billy Lee Tucker, resident oddball in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, lived next door to Gert, and in her will she leaves him the funds to help Trudy remodel the old house. That's fine with Billy Lee, because he's been in love with Trudy since before they started school. And just spending time with her is something he'd never ever allowed himself to dream about.
A beautiful home rises up from the old house on Broadway, and right along with it rises up a relationship. But is Trudy too scarred from what she heard in the ladies' room to see a lovely future with Billy Lee?"

Title:  The Ladies' Room

Author:  Carolyn Brown

Publisher:  Montlake Romance

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"The Ladies' Room" by Carolyn Brown

My Thoughts...

This was quite a interesting read of a women taking charge of her life after finding out her husband of 20 years has been nothing more than a cheat!  What a way to find out about this out after being overheard at a funeral [in the ladies room]  and Trudy decides to make some changes in her life...by starting all over.    This story will have some very interesting characters...from 'aunt Gert, wayward child[Crystal],a mom [with  Alzheimer's] a  philanderer  husband [Drew], two obnoxious relatives [Marty & Betsy] and a true friend [Billy Lee']  that were all unique in one way or another.  Be sure that there will be a lots of 'sadness, joy, pain pleasure, laughter,  timidity and courage' before this story is over giving the reader one heck of a read when it's all said and done in this heartwarming story that was without any violence or explicit sex.  I loved how this story 'revolves around Trudy finding her self respect in sticking with tough decisions.  From what Truly will hear in the ladies' room will she be able to see a future with Billy Lee[the neighbor]?  Oh yes, the plot is somewhat predictable but it's still a good read.  Will Trudy and Billy finally get their HEA? Well, to get all of the answers to these questions you will have to pick up this good read to see. 

Since I Fell For You By: Bella Andre

Book Description....

"Suzanne Sullivan doesn't need a bodyguard. After all, she's one of the most successful digital security specialists in the world―so she can most certainly take care of herself despite the problems she's been running into lately. Unfortunately, her three brothers don't agree. So when Mr. Way-Too-Handsome shows up bound and determined to protect her, whether she wants him there or not, sparks definitely start to fly. Because she has absolutely no intention of falling for the bodyguard she never wanted in the first place...

Roman Huson has vowed to do whatever it takes to protect Suzanne Sullivan from harm. And her brothers would kill him for so much as looking at her the wrong way. The only problem is that he's never been hired to work for anyone so beautiful, or brilliant, before. Between trying to keep up with her―and working like hell to keep from kissing her breathless―he's up against the most difficult challenge of his life. Especially when it turns out that the passion, and connection, between them is hotter than anything he's ever known..."

Title:  Since I Fell For You

Author:  Bella Andre

Publisher:  Oak Press LLC.

Series:  New York Sullivans #2 & The Sullivans # 16

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Since I Fell For You" by Bella Andre

My Thoughts....

This was a wonderful second in the series of the New York Sullivan's reads. I liked how this author gives the readers one interesting lovable read that featured Suzanne Sullivan and Roman Huson. Would I like to have Roman for my 'bodyguard'  oh well, that's another story but for Suzanne she simply wasn't having it.  What had her brother's [Alex, Harry & Drake] gone behind her back done in order to keep her safe?  Will Roman be able to deal with Suzanne in her not wanting him around? What did Suzanne plan on doing to Roman that would send him running?   What will happen when there is a twist in this story that will have the readers saying yummy with all that chemistry that comes about for these two [Suzanne and Roman]. Will Roman be able to keep Suzanne safe? Do you think that these two Suzanne and Roman finally get a HEA?  Well, to get all of these questions answered and so much more you will have to pick up this wonderful well written series to see how this author brings it out for her readers.  The characters were so very well developed with a entrancing story giving the readers one spectacular read that goes so well with all the other Sullivan reads.  Be ready for some passionate romance, drama, mystery, close family and friends.  Would I recommend? YES!

Thank you to the author for another continuation to a wonderful series!

Clean Break By: Abby Vegas

Book Description....

"Lane Haviland can’t seem to catch a break. She’s dead broke, barely functioning as an adult, and completely alone in New York City. Her so-called “apartment” is a six-by-nine cell in a Brooklyn basement. And her new boss hasn’t ever met a personal or professional boundary she can’t bulldoze through.

Still, Lane’s determined to at least attempt to claw her way back to respectability. But she can’t seem to get her mysterious handyman, Viktor, out of her apartment – or her headspace. Maybe that’s a good thing: Viktor’s easy on the eyes, and that deep-voiced Russian accent is beyond sexy. But as he and Lane grow closer, he can no longer hide his connections with a dangerous criminal underworld – where secrets can be deadly."

Title:  Clean  Break

Author:  Abby Vegas

Publisher:  Create Space Independent Publishing Platform

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Clean Break" by Abby Vegas

My Thoughts....

This was definitely one of those contemporary romance with suspense and mystery  that will keep you engaged turning the pages till the end because you will want to know what happens next.  This protagonist, Lane Haviland was really quite a interesting person as she is able to make it work in almost any adventurous situation that is given to her.  I will say she had quite a rough road with all that happens to her from being 'virtually penniless, her part time job won't pay her bills and not having a family or a home living there in New York City.' It hadn't always been like this for Lane...for once she had everything in her life....'a wonderful family, money and love' but what had happened to her?

Wow, and as this story goes on Lane has been scammed out of money[$800] that was to have been for her down payment for an apartment. At this point I was left wondering what all had brought her to this point in her life.  However, I will say this heroine was one smart lady, but a times she handled situations a little strange to me.  What did happen to her after Lane goes to the police and meets that detective [Jarrett]?   What happens after that is sort of a nightmare that  seems to go on and on for Lane after the detective helps her find a place to stay.  Then a handymen [Viktor]shows up and will help Lane and this is where this story really starts to take off.

What will happen after Lane found her [PA]assistant job to this 'spoiled wealthy women with two kids and a husband that works all the time.'  That part of the novel was very interesting and I will stop here and say to find out more about this relationship with this family along with Lane being given a basement apartment where she meets that handyman....to get the rest of this story you will have to pick up this read to see what all happens in this rich story of  'Clean Break.'

The reader will get a very well told story that is told in first person, showing struggle, redemption, referred to sexual scenes, heartwarming, unexpected surprises and even humorous at times,  however, there will be some dark parts in the read that did leave questions especially of a certain character who turned out to be a really 'creepy dude' that was not answered for me in the end...as to what happened with him?  What was up with the hero...the handyman [Viktor] as it seemed like he was tied up with 'the Russian crime element in Lane's neighborhood.' What I didn't care about this hero was the way he kept Lane in the dark? I know he had too but?  Oh well...how will all of this affect Lane in the end as she tries to find out more about this situation?  Will these two [Lane and Griff] get to their HEA?  Again to get the answers to all of these questions the reader will have to pick up this good read to find out.

I found all the characters [Lane, Viktor, Randy, Cynthia, Jarrett] to name a few were simply off the chart being well developed, defined, portrayed and believable giving the reader one intriguing read.
By the end of this read I did agree with this title and that this heroine and hero definitely needed a 'Clean Break!'

If you are looking for a read with lots of suspense, twist and turns with some romance you have come to the right place for 'Clean Break' will give it all to you.

I received this through NOR for an honest review.

Finding Libbie By: Deanna Lynn Sletten

Book Description....

"Poring over a dusty hatbox of photographs in her grandmother’s closet, Emily Prentice is shocked to discover her father was married to his high school sweetheart before meeting her mother.

In the summer of 1968, Jack and Libbie fall in love under the spell of their small town, untouched by the chaos of the late sixties. Though Libbie’s well-to-do parents disapprove of Jack’s humble family and his aspiration to become a mechanic, she marries Jack a year after they graduate high school. But soon their happiness crumbles as Libbie’s mental state unravels and she is drawn to alcohol and drugs. Despite his efforts to help her, Jack loses the woman he loves and is forced to move on with his life.

Now that Emily’s mother has passed away, Jack is alone again, and Emily grows obsessed with the beautiful woman who had given her father such joy. Determined to find Libbie, Emily pieces together the couple’s fragmented past. But is it too late for happy endings?"

Title:  Finding Libbie
Author:  Deanna Lynn Sletten
Publisher:  Lake Union Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Finding Libbie" by Deanna Lynn Sletten

My Thoughts....

"Finding Libbie was a well written story [part 1 and part 2] that will keep your attention all the way to the end.  I liked the shift of the read staring 'at present day...shifting to the late 60's, to Jack and Libby's story...and then back to the present day.'

What would you do or think if you found out that your father was previously married and you had no idea of this?  This was a story also about 'mental illness,' which presented quite a roller coaster ride and even to  having a second chance at love.  Libbie is Jack's previous wife before he met Emily's mother & married her,

The reader will be captivated in finding out the truth about this young couple [Libbie and Jack's] struggles in this very emotional love story.  Be ready for quite a heartbreaking read full of 'memories, sorrow, heartache, and love.'  This was definitely a tear grabber.   Now, why was that? Why couldn't Emily get this story out of her mind..."It's just that dad and Lobbies' story is so sad, I feel a need to find out if Libbie is okay, wherever she is.'  This is where I say you will have to pick this read up to see how this author will bring it all out to the reader.  This is definitely a good love story that will break your heart as it deals with addictions and mental illness with some 'well drawn characters, in a Minnesota setting during the Vietnam War.'  This read definitely left me saying Wow what a good read!

ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley.

This Loving Feeling By: Miranda Liasson

Book Description....

"Samantha Rushford’s future looks bright: the high school art teacher is getting ready to leave Mirror Lake and move to Boston with her ambitious boyfriend, and she hopes a diamond ring is just around the corner. But her past still has a hold on her—especially the bittersweet memory of her rebellious ex, who kissed her passionately before he left town without a word.
Since then, Lukas Spikonos has parlayed his rebel ways into life as an up-and-coming recording artist. When he shows up for a surprise gig at the high school prom, Sam is more dumbstruck than starstruck—he used the words of a poem she wrote about their breakup to create a number one hit. But Lukas hasn’t returned just to impress students; he’s facing some real-life responsibilities and needs Sam’s help. But she has her own unresolved issues about the life she wants to lead. Will the music—and the pull of true love and family—put their hearts back in harmony?"

Title:  This Loving Feeling
Author:  Miranda Liasson
Publisher:  Montlake Romance
Series:  Mirror Lake #3
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"This Loving Feeling" by Miranda Liasson

My Thoughts....

When I picked the title I thought to myself I hope this a a good romance.  Well, I will say I picked a winner. This author will give the readers a little something, something that will leave you with a big smile and saying wow, what a  engaging read. I loved this read featuring Samantha and Lukas and his nephew Stevie. Sam and Lukas had been childhood friends but he had abruptly left town twice with no explanation. Why was this?  We find Sam now a Art teacher, thinking she had her life all sewed up[with her senator boyfriend Harris] but when a childhood friend [Lukas] comes back to 'Mirror Lake' will there be a change in her life? What will happen as Lukas comes back to town and now a 'Rock Star' who sings a song at the high school prom using "words of a poem Sam had wrote about their breakup that created a number one hit.  Now, what was up with that?!  Also he brings to town with him his adorable nephew [his brother's child] who was five whom he wanted to adopt?  So, now we have a 'current boyfriend and a celebrity ex. who has a child.'  How will this all turn out especially when Harris thinks it time to get engaged and Lukas finally decides he [and Stevie] wants Sam?  Be ready for a good read with a few twist and turns that will keep you turning the pages to the very end. There were some good characters [I especially liked Effie] that were well developed, portrayed, little humorous and believable giving the reader a wonderful read.  Even though the reader may guess there maybe or will be  a HEA for Sam and Lukas, however, it was fascinating seeing how this author creates quite the tension in this relationship up to the very end.  With Lukas being 'sexy, caring and super person and Sam is kind as well as spunky' all having you say wow!  In the end one gets one excellent small town romantic story.  Even though this is a series it can be read as a standalone.

I received this book from NOR for an honest review.

All The Good Parts By: Loretta Nyhan

Book Description....

"At thirty-nine, Leona Accorsi is broke, single, back in school, and living in her sister Carly’s basement. She’s perfectly content being quirky Auntie Lee to Carly’s four children. That is, until Leona’s doctor tells her that if she wants to have a child, she’d better do it now.
Leona does want a baby. She always has, but the circumstances have never been right. Now she has a huge decision to make: face motherhood on her own or risk missing out on its rewards.
Unfortunately, she’s let her romantic life go stagnant. She barely even knows any single men. She has just a few prospects: a Vietnam vet and partial amputee, his intimidating son, the sweet but troubled man who tutors her niece, and a fellow nursing student she’s never actually met.
As Leona discovers more about each one, she realizes any of them could be the right man for the job. The more important question is, has she become the right woman?"

Title:  All The Good Parts
Author:  Loretta Nyhan
Publisher:  Lake Union Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"All The Good Parts" by Loretta Nyhan

My Thoughts....

What happens when Leona's gynecologist [Dr. Bridget] tells her 'now's the time' especially if she was thinking of having a baby.  We find Leona being single, 39 years old, working as a health care aid while working on the nursing degree [online]limited income,living with her sister Carly, her husband and their four children. Now, this is where this story will get very interesting with Leona trying to choose a sperm donor.   What will Leona do about this situation?  Who will she turn to for advice since she wasn't dating anyone?  What was up with her sister Carly?   Be ready for this story to take on quite a few twist and turns as Leona starts her journey of picking a donor which will not be a easy choice.  "What guy will Leona choose?"  I loved how I was able to correctly guess whom it would be!

The author gives the reader some very intriguing characters....from Leona, to Carly, Donal, Maura, Daryl, Jerry, Paul, Estelle to name a few that will give one well developed, likable, portrayed, relatable, believable, quirky and in the end giving  a warm fun humorous read [the baby shower scenes].  I found it very intriguing who Leona turns to as well as whom she received advice from.  I liked the growth pattern that the reader will see develop by the end of this read  of this heroine.  This is where I say you will have to pick up this engaging good heart felt read to see how well this author will present this story to her readers.  In the end the reader will get a novel that shows and deals with 'family, friends, disappointment, love. self discovery and hope.'

This ARC was given by the publisher and NetGallery in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.

Good In Bed By: Jennifer Weiner

Book Description...

"#1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Weiner brings to life an irresistibly funny and relatable heroine in the novel The Boston Globe called “funny, fanciful, extremely poignant, and rich with insight.”

For twenty-eight years, things have been tripping along nicely for Cannie Shapiro. Sure, her mother has come charging out of the closet, and her father has long since dropped out of her world. But she loves her friends, her rat terrier, Nifkin, and her job as pop culture reporter for The Philadelphia Examiner. She’s even made a tenuous peace with her plus-size body.

But the day she opens up a national women’s magazine and sees the words “Loving a Larger Woman” above her ex-boyfriend’s byline, Cannie is plunged into misery…and the most amazing year of her life. From Philadelphia to Hollywood and back home again, she charts a new course for herself: mourning her losses, facing her past, and figuring out who she is and who she can become."

Title:  Good In Bed

Author:  Jennifer Weiner

Publisher:  Atria Books

Series:  Cannie Shapiro #1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Good In Bed" by Jennifer Weiner

My Thoughts.....

A interesting read of what this plus size (16) girl [Cannie Shapiro] had gone through being called a fatty from childhood and even into her adult life.  We find Cannie now at the age of 28 a 'pop culture reporter' for the Philadelphia Examiner and all seemed well until her ex boyfriend (Bruce) writes a byline...."Loving a Larger Woman."  This definitely gives her quite a slap in the face.  What will Cannie do and how she handled this situations was truly something to read about. I had so many mixed feeling for this heroine because of the way she felt about herself [self-esteem] as she would goes through a little bit of it all...'facing her past, mourning her losses, figuring out just who she is and who she can become.'  This story will take the reader around in one huge circle presenting some very interesting situations and people...from Cannie's dad, her mom, her mom's lover and some interesting friends like Samantha, Maxi,  Peter an let's not leave out her dog Nifkin to name a few.  As Cannie plunged into misery how will she decide to make some changes in her life?  For me this is really what I felt this story was all about.  Be ready for a long story with lots and lots of drama and I will say there are some humorous parts that had me laughing out loud!

I loved this memorable passage....

 "I will love myself, and my body, for what it can do-- because it is strong enough to lift, to walk, to ride a bicycle up a hill, to embrace the people that I love and hold them fully, and to nurture a new life. I will love myself because I am sturdy. Because I did not--will not--break."

 Will Cannie get her HEA? ...Well,  you will have to pick up this read to find out.


This ARC was given by the publisher and NetGallery in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.