The Floating Feldmans By Elyssa Friedland

Book Synopsis:

"Sink or swim. Or at least that's what Annette Feldman tells herself when she books a cruise for her entire family. It's been over a decade since the Feldman clan has spent more than twenty-four hours under the same roof, but Annette is determined to celebrate her seventieth birthday the right way. Just this once, they are going to behave like an actual family.

Too bad her kids didn't get the memo.

Between the troublesome family secrets, old sibling rivalries, and her two teenage grandkids, Annette's birthday vacation is looking more and more like the perfect storm. Adrift together on the open seas, the Feldmans will each face the truths they've been ignoring—and learn that the people they once thought most likely to sink them are actually the ones who help them stay afloat."

Title:  The Floating Feldmans

Author:  Elyssa Friedland

Publisher:  E. F.  

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"The Floating Feldmans" by Elyssa Friedland

My Rationalization:  

I found "The Floating Feldman's" quite a story that lots of families have gone through in one way or another.  For this family, this matriarch was turning seventy and invited her son,  daughter, son-in-law and the two grandchildren to come along with her and her husband on a week's Caribbean cruise for her birthday that she would pay for.  I will say that these characters were really something that will definitely keep you turning the pages to see what was coming next in trying to understand them.  

It seems like everyone wanted to come on this cruise but omg what kind of attitudes, trust issues, resentments, insecurities, and secrets did this family seem to have among themselves? How will this vacation turn out for this  Friedland/Connelly family?  With the uncle having business with his selling of pot, a daughter being a shopaholic whose bankrupted the family, their father being ill and this story will continue on and will leave you shaking your head and saying Wow!  And it seems like this family wasn't alone in having problems for the cruise director had problems not only with his cruse people [this family] but in  his own personal life too.  I could definitely understand his thoughts of if getting married would be the best thing for him after seeing and hearing what all goes on in some families.  

Be ready to find some humor in this good read that will definitely add to the storyline. It will be really interesting to see how all of these secrets will come out by the end of the cruise.  So to see how this family drama all comes out you will have to pick up "The Floating Feldmans" to see how well this author presents to the reader a well-written story.  I enjoyed how well this author will answer all the questions of everyone's situation by the end of the story.     
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC of this book.

A Twenty-Year Difference Kindle Edition by Stan Hendriks

Profile:

"Is a twenty-year age difference too much in a relationship?

Kendrick Brown asks his grandfather Dwayne Brown what his biggest regret in life is. But in order for Kendrick to understand what Dwayne’s biggest regret is, he first has to tell him a story, a love story. It’s a sweet little love story, but there was also one big problem. The woman whom Dwayne had a relationship with in his story, was twenty years older than him! And back in nineteen fifty-eight, people did not really like the idea of that at all, including Dwayne’s father. But did the twenty-year age difference in his relationship have something to do with his biggest regret? Or is it something else?"

Title: A Twenty-Year Difference
Author: Stan Hendriks
Publisher: S. H.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"A Twenty-Year Difference" by Stan Hendriks

My Rationalization:

I found this a very interesting read in that it was somewhat happy but also sad. What will Dwayne Brown tell his grandson Kendrick about his greatest regret of his life? As we read about the story that Dwayne tells, the story is a sweet love tale of him being twenty years younger than the women. At this time in 1958 to have a woman being older than the man was greatly frond on, as it was for Dwayne's father. As Dwayne tells the story he sorta left the story hanging at the end to whether he stayed married or not. I find at the end we are left with wanting to know just what was Dwayne's biggest regret? Was it the fact that Kendrick didn't ask the question to his grandfather or what? This greatly presented quite a twist to the story.

Now this leaves me just to say you will have to pick up "A Twenty-Year Difference" to see for yourself just how well this author brings this story out. And you will be able to see if you thought that Dwayne really had any regrets in the end. 

With Vengeance (Hearts of Metal Book 2) Kindle Edition by Brooklyn Ann

Profile:

"Katana James is about to become the studio guitarist for her favorite heavy metal band ever—and meet the musicians, music, and man of her dreams.

SHE MEANS BUSINESS

Twenty-three year old Katana James can shred on the guitar. Not that anyone would know, as she’s spent most of her time working on a popular news and gossip website for Heavy Metal fans since her own band broke up. But her dreams are in reach when she gets an audition to play with her favorite band, Bleeding Vengeance. Kat won’t let her gender, her anxiety disorder, or even the pranks of a malicious stalker stand in her way. The only thing to threaten her focus? A growing fascination with the group’s brilliant, mysterious bass player.

HE OFFERS PLEASURE

Klement Burke has always been the heart, soul and brain of Bleeding Vengeance. He’s the kind of rock star who stays in the shadows, a perfectionist more interested in satisfying his brain than other parts of his body. Until he auditions Katana James. At first it seemed a perfect idea, as he’s been aware of her talent for some time. But meeting her in the flesh ignites thoughts far from professional. Despite the conflict of work, the odds against her falling for a geek like him, and a secret he’s been hiding, his heart, body and soul now belong to Kat."

Title:  With Vengeance

Author:  Brooklyn Ann

Publisher:  Boroughs Publishing Group                      

Series:  Heart of Metal Book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"With Vengeance" by Brooklyn Ann

My Thoughts....

What a perfect pair as the author brings to us ... Katana and Klement.  But as the story starts out it seems like Katana may have had eyes of another  member of the Bleeding Vengeance band [Cliff] until great chemistry starts and she knew it was for  another member of the band....the metal band's bassist, Klement.  Be ready for a well written story that was a little predicable at times but still engaging where you will find yourself turning the pages to see what was coming next.  This was especially in the part where  Katana's ex boyfriend [Richard] was their being the villain that would bring in some suspense into this well told story. However, also what secret did Klement have that he was keeping from Katana?   I liked the characters that were brought into the read a fun part being so well portrayed and believable giving the story some hilarious moments where you will definitely put a smile on your face especially with the hot steamy chemistry that these two had.  So to find out how Klement [hot nerd & had ADHD] and Katana [who pops Xanax suffering from PTSD] will form this relationship you will have to pick up "With Vengeance" to see how well this author will pulls the reader into this well told story. It was great seeing just how these two were able to help each other.    

So, if you are looking for a story about epic rock star romance pursing metal music with 'mystery, suspense, drama, erotic passion and steamy hot sex' then I would definitely recommend this good read for you.  

Batiste (Cajun Devils Book 1) Kindle Edition by Victoria Danann

Profile:

"WARNING: Not your usual romance. Please be prepared. This love story takes a turn toward dark, intense, and gritty subject matter,including sexual abuse, and could test your emotional fortitude. 

New York Times bestselling author, Victoria Danann, begins a new biker romance series spinning off SSMC.

What will he do to get her back? Anything.

Take a journey into the exotic culture of bayou country in Louisiana's Lafayette and Acadia parishes. Cajun beauty, Angelique Bellefeuille, has had enough of bikers and their bullshit. Being put in danger because of her father's motorcycle club makes that conclusion rock hard solid.

When she's sent to an allied club for protection from a rival club, she's reunited with her childhood friend, Just Batiste. Only he's not the cute, fun, adventurous kid she remembers. He's large, in charge, and menacing.

Fate has her own sense of timing. The last thing Batiste needs is a distraction from the new joint venture with the SSMC that could make his dreams come true. But there she is dividing his attention, partly as memory of her as a little girl and partly as grown woman walking around in the mind-numbingly curvy form of a blue-eyed mischief maker.

Just when he thinks he can't get more frustrated with the little troublemaker, she's kidnapped by the very people he's supposed to be protecting her from. What will he do to get her back? Anything.

Distraction or not, he vows to personally initiate a facsimile of Armageddon on any man who would threaten, frighten, or touch Angel."

Title:  Batiste

Author:  Victoria Danann

Publisher:  V. D.

Series:  Cajun Devils Book 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Batiste" by Victoria Danann

My Thoughts..... 


What a love story!  This was a story that caught my interest from the very beginning and left me saying wow...that was some story!

I appreciated the warning that the author left for the readers because it was some mind blowing read however, very well presented in a way that one will not be able to forget this novel.   Now, with that being said you will just have to pick up "Batiste" and read the book to find out what all this is about.  

Moving on we find that this love story was about Batiste and Angeline who had been friends since childhood.  With realizing that they should have been together...fate would not allow that so different paths were taken.  However, the story will not end there because it seems like these twisted paths will lead them back together once again on quite a emotional roller coaster ride before their will be a HEA.

Now, be ready for a little bit of it all from such high emotions from 'love, fear, hurt, sadness, surprise and gratitude' in the brotherhood of the Cajun Devil biker world that this author presents so well to her readers where in the end be get a 'beautiful love story while exposing some ugly truths.'

Time to Say Goodbye (Michigan Sweet Romance) Kindle Edition by Parker J Cole

Book Description....

"Gargi Kapoor is the only one convinced her brother, Dev, is innocent of the crime he was convicted of. When he is sent to the hospital with an unexplained paralyzing disease she finds herself having to lean on the last person she’d ever want to depend on -- a man who wants her brother to pay for stealing his mother’s life savings.

Leon Reckley is extremely satisfied to find the man who ripped his mother off suffering from an unknown disease that leaves him paralyzed and in need of rehabilitation therapeutic services. He’s even happier when he is given the opportunity to be the therapist that makes him fit enough to return to prison to finish his sentence. No one will work harder to make sure Dev Kapoor serves every minute of his prison sentence.

Gargi never dreamed the man who has utter contempt for her brother would be the man she slowly begins to trust. Leon never thought he’d be convinced Dev might be innocent, let alone be drawn to his enemy’s little sister. Together, will they find the truth? Or when Leon’s job is over, will it simply be time to say goodbye?"

Title:  Time to Say Goodbye [Michigan Sweet Romance]

Author:  Parker J. Cole

Publisher:  P. J. C.                        
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five  

Review:

"Time to Say Goodbye" by Parker J. Cole

My Thoughts....

"Time to Say Goodbye" was definitely a captivating read that will keep your attention.  I liked how this author gives the readers a good read of Indian culture through their cuisine, customs and language. The plot of the story which mainly deals with Gargi, Dev and Leon and a few other secondary characters that were all well developed, defined and portrayed giving the reader a very intriguing read.  I loved how this love story develops between Gargi and Leon.  Will they be able to reach their HEA with all that is going on with twist and turns all over the place in this engaging read?  I also loved the family relationship between Gargi and her brother. However, I was sorry to see what happens to a family when a trust has been betrayed.  Well, I will stop here and say you will have to pick up the well written novel to see how well it has been presented to the reader.  Would I recommend?  YES it was indeed a good read.

Tatted Up & Tied Down (A Sex, Drugs and Rock Romance Book 3) Kindle Edition by J. Haney,‎ S.I. Hayes

Book Description...

"Steven Falcone aka Steve Vicious is the infamous  Fallen Angels Drummer. He seems to have it all, money, a gorgeous wife, three beautiful daughters, and a sexy live-in girlfriend. He’s managed to take the open relationship mainstream in a world where it’s still very taboo.

The problem?

Steve wants something like monogamy again, but Kellie won’t give up her Dom and Steve’s feelings for lover Crystal are more than they should be. Can the trio make heads or tails of their relationship or will his marriage of sixteen years crumble at his feet?
*Erotic Themes
**Raw Language
*** Drug and Alcohol use
**** Trigger Warning: Sexy Beast Drummer        

Title:  Tatted Up & Tied Down

Author:  J. Haney & S. I. Hayes

Publisher:  Createspace Independent Publishing Platform 

Series:  A Sex, Drugs and Rock Romance Book 3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Tatted Up & Tied Down" by J Haney & S. I. Hayes

My Thoughts...

Wow-what a good read in this 'Book 3 in Tatted Up & Tied Down.' We get to see just how the rock star [Fallen Angels Drummer]  Steve [known as the beast] will deal with not only his wife. three daughters but also a girlfriend[Crystal].  Will Steve be able to deal with what all is before him and be sober?  I found the characters very relatable, developed and well portrayed that will definitely keep your interest in wanting to know what's coming next.  You get to feel a little bit of it all from this drama that will lead to 'anger, sadness, love and yes some hot steamy sex.  By the end will Steve and Crystal ever get their HEA?  Well, this will be quite a ride so you will have to pick up "Tatted Up & Tied Down to see" how well these authors bring this story altogether for the readers. I will say I loved the ending!

Under His Skin by S.I. Hayes & J. Haney

Book Description.....

"At twenty-six Dorian Gallagher has it all. Money, power, he’s used to fast cars and faster women. He gets what he wants when he wants it. Being put in charge of the build for the Gallagher family’s newest theme park has dropped him in Tennessee. Bored out of his mind he decides to go get some new ink and finds himself face to face with a beautiful woman who doesn’t know his famous last name. Can he charm this dark beauty, or will she just stick him and run?
Charlotte (Charlie) Herrick is a free spirit. She drives a big truck, rides a motorcycle and carries a gun. All while dancing around in the layers of tulle that make up her usual cheek baring tutus. Her life was hers. Until she meets Dorian Gallagher, now she doesn’t know which way is up and life has become something more than just the shop, fishin’ and moonshine. He says he’s just here for the year, so she convinces herself it’s just a fling. Can she stay true to her convictions or will this Amusement Park Prince finally get his princess?"

Title:  Under His Skin

Authors:  S.I. Hayes  & J. Haney   

Publisher: S. H. H. & J. H.

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Under His Skin" by S. I Hayes & J. Haney

My Thoughts...

This was quite a good read that these authors give the readers.  It was quite interesting seeing Dorian Gallagher and Charlotte [Charlie] Herrick becoming friends and then on to lovers.  With Dorian having to leave LA  to Tennessee due so some of his previous actions taken with a married woman.  So, now he is in Tennessee to set up the 'family's newest theme park' and trying to stay on the low due to his indiscretion so not to be followed by this married woman husband goons that may be out to get him.

On wanting to get 'some new ink' who does Dorian meet?  Well, it's Charlie who was quite some 'dark beauty, free spirit, drives a big truck, rides a motorcycle and carries a gun.'  How will Dorian fit in all of this after they meet?

Well, this will be a cute romance with some mystery and suspense that will keep one turning the pages to see what is coming next.  It was some read seeing out these two come together giving us a good read as both of these families will come together.  I loved the characters in the readers who were all for the most part well developed, portrayed and believable keeping the story up front and center.

In the end, will this 'Amusement Park Prince get his princess with a HEA?'  Well, you will have to pick up "Under His Skin" to see how these authors bring it all out to the readers. Would I recommend?  YES!

But My Soul is Black By: Terrell Williams

Book Description....

"Bobby has high hopes for his new life in Detroit, and he will not, under any circumstances, blow his chances by messing up a prime job opportunity at his uncle’s construction company. But his first meeting with his mentor, African American foreman Jimbo, turns out even worse than expected when it becomes apparent that Bobby is learning the ropes to become Jimbo’s boss.
As Bobby tries to navigate Jimbo’s understandable resentment, he must also wrestle with the misperceptions of Black culture that his Caucasian family has passed on to him. Eventually, the two men become friends as Jimbo recognizes that Bobby doesn’t hold the prejudices of his uncle.
But just as things start to smooth out, Jimbo introduces Bobby to the kind, clever, and stunning Karen—Jimbo’s favorite woman to string along. Confused by his strong feelings for this intriguing woman and frustrated with Jimbo’s flippant treatment of her, Bobby struggles with whether to pursue Karen…at the cost of ending his newfound friendship with Jimbo and sabotaging his future.
Taking a candid look at interracial romance and the human experience, …But My Soul is Black reveals the cultural misperceptions that harm us—and the love that heals us."

Title:  But My Soul is Black
Author:  Terrell Williams
Publisher:  CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"But My Soul is Black" by Terrell Williams

My Synopsis....

I found "but My Soul is Back" one interesting read in that the story was indeed somewhat strange in how it all started.  A white man wanting to be friends with this black man?  Well this is what happened!  Now, one would wonder with Bobby Selinski wanted to be friends with James Guidry [Jimbo] who was a 'African American foreman' who worked for his uncle. What happens has this really becomes a good friendship?  Well it seems all is going well for Bobby until Jimbo introduces him to a Miss Karen Blackwell who just happens to be Jimbo's favorite lady. What will happen when betrayal comes into play.   Now, I don't want to spoil to much but just say this story really take on a intriguing read to see how this author will bring it all out to the reader.

The storyline had some really well developed, portrayed and even believable characters beginning with Bobby, Uncle Fred, Vince, Jimbo, Pete, Karen, Smokey, Miss Thomas and  Carolyn Jenkins to name a few that will definitely keep your attention to the end of the read.

In the end one may wonder a little how this turned out. Was this a way to do someone you called your friend?    Did the right man get the woman? Well, again you will have to read this novel to see just how it comes out.  I will say that ending had me raising my eyebrow and saying really?  Oh, I will say it was interesting seeing how Jimbo's grandmother tried to work her magic even after death into her grandsons love life.  Did it work?  It was also interesting to see what Bobby did to try to understand if he and Karen should be together. I will say Karen got on my nerves a little but in the end I was able to understand some of her reasoning.

All and all this was a good read that will keep you turning the pages and I would recommend.

Thank you to Write Now Literary for the early read.  It was definitely a read that will leave you with many provoking thoughts that will leave you to ponder over long after the read.  Was this a real friendship?

The Art of Hiding A Novel by Amanda Prowse

Book Description....

"Nina McCarrick has it all: a loving husband, two beautiful boys, a well-appointed home and more time than she knows what to do with. Life is perfect. Until her husband, Finn, is killed in a car accident and everything Nina thought she could rely on unravels.
Alone, bereft and faced with a mountain of debt, Nina’s life of luxury quickly disappears and she begins to question whether she ever really knew the man she married. Forced to move out of her family home, Nina returns to the rundown Southampton council estate—and the sister—she thought she had left far behind.
But Nina can’t let herself be overwhelmed—her boys need her. To save them, and herself, she will have to do what her husband discouraged for so long: pursue a career of her own. Torn between the life she thought she knew and the reality she now faces, Nina finally must learn what it means to take control of her life.
Stirring and empowering, this novel from bestselling author Amanda Prowse once again plumbs the depths of human experience in this tale of one woman’s loss and love."

Title:  The Art of Hiding
Author:  Amanda Prowse
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"The Art Of Hiding" by Amanda Prowse

My Thoughts....

What a wonderful story this author gives to the readers that will definitely put one into its storyline. We find that Nina McCarrick had it all...a wonderful husband [Finn], two sons, beautiful home living the life of the rich and wealthy.  However, what will happen to Nina and her sons after the death of her husband and all that had seemed right in her world comes tumbling down.  Will Nina be able to pick herself up and move on with her life after bankruptcy hits her hard?   Will Nina soon learn that possessions aren't the most important things in her life as she is forced to return to her roots in South Hampton where they will have to adapt to a newer surrounding?  This is definitely a story of  grief, loss, hope, and redemption, drama, recovery as one will be able to see just what is so important in ones life as Nina begins a journey of self discovery and taking back her life in order to survive and be their for her sons Connor and Declan.

I found this novel well written emotional story definitely showing just what the difference is between materialism and spiritual values and the power of love and courage that will leave you with some provoking thoughts long after the read.  .

I received this book from Netgalley and chose to voluntarily review the book with an honest book review.

The Heirs By: Susan Rieger

Book Description.....

"Brilliantly wrought, incisive, and stirring, The Heirs tells the story of an upper-crust Manhattan family coming undone after the death of their patriarch 

Six months after Rupert Falkes dies, leaving a grieving widow and five adult sons, an unknown woman sues his estate, claiming she had two sons by him.  The Falkes brothers are pitched into turmoil, at once missing their father and feeling betrayed by him.  In disconcerting contrast, their mother, Eleanor, is cool and calm, showing preternatural composure. 

Eleanor and Rupert had made an admirable life together -- Eleanor with her sly wit and generosity, Rupert with his ambition and English charm -- and they were proud of their handsome, talented sons: Harry, a brash law professor; Will, a savvy Hollywood agent; Sam, an astute doctor and scientific researcher; Jack, a jazz trumpet prodigy; Tom, a public-spirited federal prosecutor. The brothers see their identity and success as inextricably tied to family loyalty – a loyalty they always believed their father shared. Struggling to reclaim their identity, the brothers find Eleanor’s sympathy toward the woman and her sons confounding. Widowhood has let her cast off the rigid propriety of her stifling upbringing, and the brothers begin to question whether they knew either of their parents at all.

A riveting portrait of a family, told with compassion, insight, and wit, The Heirs wrestles with the tangled nature of inheritance and legacy for one unforgettable, patrician New York family. Moving seamlessly through a constellation of rich, arresting voices, The Heirs is a tale out Edith Wharton for the 21st century."

Title:  The Heirs

Author:  Susan Rieger

Publisher:  Crown

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"The Heirs" by Susan Rieger

My Thoughts....

What a story that tell of the well to do family [the heirs of Rupert Falkes] and oh my what is found out after this patriarch passes.  I thought this novel was well written with such a incredible character development that will certainly keep your attention to the end. I liked how this author tell of the wife Eleanor who was Rupert's wife and their five sons [ Will, Sam, Tom, Jack and Harry] who were Princeton educated and so successful and all the grands are girls. What happens when a letter arrives with a women saying that she had two sons by Rupert and wanted them to share in the inheritance?  As Rupert's past is questioned and his secrets surface that simply smears his families reputation what will happen?  How will the family members treat this information?  In the end  as the mystery comes out was there any truth to any of this?    

The author gives the reader quite a good read of family and the lives it touches as it goes through 'marriage, parenthood, fidelity, infidelity, Eleanor's past, even giving the reader some incredible dry wit' along with some surprises.  In the end the reader gets a good  page turner read  of a wonderful saga that is even juicy, entertaining, somewhat humorous times.   

I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review. So exciting!

Peace In The Valley Ruth Logan Herne

Book Description...

"In spite of their differences, Trey Walker Stafford knows he owes his life to cowboy and legendary rancher Sam Stafford--the uncle who rescued him after his parents' death. Trey had left the Double S Ranch to pursue music against Sam's wishes, but returns to central Washington when he learns he's the best match for a procedure that could save Sam's life. Although Trey's found country music fame and success, he's also endured the tragic loss of his wife. He croons about love, but struggles with a yawning emptiness he can't explain.

Overwhelmed by a growing list of challenges, but mistrustful of Stafford men, single mother Lucy Carlton reluctantly accepts Trey's help to revive her crumbling farm when Sam instructs him to repay the overdue debt to her family.

As the two grow closer, Trey slowly begins to open his heart to this beautiful woman and strives to let go of the grief he's held for years. Lucy has a complicated history of her own. Can Trey accept her as she is, learn to forgive the past, and find the elusive peace he's sought for so long?"

Title:  Peace In The Valley

Author:  Ruth Logan Herne

Publisher:  Multnomah

Series:  Double S Ranch # 3

Reviewed By: Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Peace In The Valley" by Ruth Logan Herne

My Thoughts....

I loved this heartfelt tear jerking read of the last series:  Double S Ranch # 3...Peace In The Valley this only this author can give to her readers.  What a beautiful read of a story of what will happens when one puts the past behind and now it's about faith and the family.  The main story was of Trey
Stafford and Lucy Carlton however we are also given many secondary characters [Sam] and a few others that were truly indeed special in this very powerful moving read.  Not only was this a romantic cowboy story but so much more.  I loved how this author gives us a story of what will happen when a family turn to God for some healing of past wounds and we are even given some inspirational scriptures the were there to give them 'strength or encouragement' at the perfect time.   The story is definitely giving the reader a heartwarming story with Trey, Lucky and her children[Cade & Cody]. In the end the reader is given on fascinating story that will include quite a lots of messages that will be woven into this story giving the readers 'Gods' grace, embracing and forgiving one another as through love they are given second chances.  This author really did a well good job at giving the readers a fantastic ending in this series.  To get the whole story of Double S Ranch three book series get..." Back in the Saddle...Home on the Ranch and Peace In The Valley.'  The reader will truly enjoy all of them!

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 Twilight Wife By: A.J. Banner

Book Description.....

"From bestselling author A.J. Banner comes a dazzling new novel of psychological suspense in the vein of S.J. Watson’s Before I Go to Sleep and Mary Kubica’s The Good Girl that questions just how much we can trust the people around us.

Thirty-four-year-old marine biologist Kyra Winthrop remembers nothing about the diving accident that left her with a complex form of memory loss. With only brief flashes of the last few years of her life, her world has narrowed to a few close friendships on the island where she lives with her devoted husband, Jacob.

But all is not what it seems. Kyra begins to have visions—or are they memories?—of a rocky marriage, broken promises, and cryptic relationships with the island residents, whom she believes to be her friends.

As Kyra races to uncover her past, the truth becomes a terrifying nightmare. A twisty, immersive thriller, The Twilight Wife will keep readers enthralled through the final, shocking twist."

Title:  The Twilight Wife

Author:  A.J. Banner

Publisher:  Touchstone

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"The Twilight Wife" by A. J. Banner

My Thoughts....

What a good mystery thriller with psychological suspense read that will keep your attention and definitely have you guessing all the way till the end keeping you on the edge of your seat.  The author gives the ready quite a story of what happens to Kyra Winthrop after an accident steals her memory for the past four years. But what will happen as Kyra begins to piece her life back together again?  This is definitely a read that will give you a 'tale of confusion and deceit' as the twist and turns with clues that are brought out in this well written story.  I liked the way this author gives the reader such a story that you will not see that ending coming definitely giving the reader a real shocker.  I liked the descriptions used in the story with 'details of marine creatures, birds and trees on this Pacific Northwest island [Mystic Island].'

"The Twilight Wife" is one of those stories that you will just have to pick up this good read to find out the truth that will be webbed in the lies and deception of it all.  The characters were all well developed, portrayed and defined giving the reader one easy read of a incredible story.  Will Kyra be able to finally get more of her memory back and becomes more confident in her own abilities to finally connect the dots?  In the end will it all work out for Kyra?  Well, this is where I say you will have to pick up this good read to see just how this author will bring it all out to the reader.  If you like a good mystery thriller with psychological suspense, then I would recommend "The Twilight Wife" for you.

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

We're All Damaged By: Matthew Norman

Book Description...

"Andy Carter was happy. He had a solid job. He ran 5Ks for charity. He was living a nice, safe Midwestern existence. And then his wife left him for a handsome paramedic down the street.
We’re All Damaged begins after Andy has lost his job, ruined his best friend’s wedding, and moved to New York City, where he lives in a tiny apartment with an angry cat named Jeter that isn’t technically his. But before long he needs to go back to Omaha to say good-bye to his dying grandfather.
Back home, Andy is confronted with his past, which includes his ex, his ex’s new boyfriend, his right-wing talk-radio-host mother, his parents’ crumbling marriage, and his still-angry best friend.
As if these old problems weren’t enough, Andy encounters an entirely new complication: Daisy. She has fifteen tattoos, no job, and her own difficult past. But she claims she is the only person who can help Andy be happy again, if only she weren’t hiding a huge secret that will mess things up even more. Andy Carter needs a second chance at life, and Daisy—and the person Daisy pushes Andy to become—may be his last chance to set things right."

Title:  We're All Damaged
Author:  Matthew Norman
Publisher:  Little A
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"We're All Damaged" by Matthew Norman

My Thoughts...

What a read that will give you a little bit of 'hilarity and seriousness' that will keep you turning the pages as you read about some people who are  'heart wrenching, heart rending, heart breaking, witty, and hilarious people. As you read through "We're All Damaged" I was let wondering if Andy Carter will finally get his life together and find happiness in a world that seem to thrown definitely down a 'gauntlet against such simple wants' because it seems like Andy can't catch a break by fooling around in his life after his wife leaves him for a paramedic, he loses his job, he relocated to NYC, leading him to a sad drunken existence...then a trip back home to Omaha whose  grandfather is...well, I will stop here and say pick up this good read to see how this author presents it so well to the readers.  With all that has happened to Andy over the last past year will he finally get a 'righteous rainbow' arrive for him?  What a story that is about 'family, hope and dreams.'  The list of characters where some are all well developed, quirky, portrayed and some even being multi-dimensional...from Andy, to his mom[Nancy], his brother [Jim], his ex wife [Karen], his dad,  his grandpa, best friend, [NEAL] and then there is Daisy [what a character!] to name a few that will keep you turning the pages to see what is coming next.  If you are looking for a well written read that has 'perceptions, dysfunction,  love and even second chances' then this is definitely a read for you to enjoy.

Home On The Range By Ruth Logan Herne

Book Description...

"A cowboy romance with a heart of gold, in Home on the Range author Ruth Logan Herne returns readers to the Double S Ranch where God and family are first, but love is certain to follow the Stafford menfolk. Nick made all the wrong choices for all the wrong reasons. His father had failed at marriage and fatherhood. Nick was determined to show him up. He'd be a better husband, better father and a better ranch manager than Sam Stafford ever hoped to be. But Nick's wife Whitney hated the ranch and she walked out on Nick and their two beautiful daughters three years ago. For a long time Nick pretended everything was fine and when his stubborn nature is finally challenged by trouble with his young girls, he's faced with the changes he should have made long ago. Psychologist Dr. Elsa Andreas had a thriving family therapy practice, a school commission, a good life, but tragedy pushes Elsa to walk away from her life. Three years later, she's tucked herself in the backwoods of Gray's Glen. When her sister encourages her to help Nick Stafford's daughters, Elsa takes a chance. But Nick's ex-wife comes back to town, threatening the girls' newfound stability. Can Nick find the forgiveness and Else the courage to build their own "Home on the Range"?"

Title:  Home On The Range
Author:  Ruth Logan Herne
Publisher:  Multnomah
Series:  Double S Ranch # 2
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Home On The Range" by Ruth Logan Herne

My Thoughts....

What a story that will definitely pull at your heart as it seems to 'engages all five senses' [hearing, seeing, smelling,seeing and feeling] from the read!    Now, to know what I am talking about the reader will have to pick up this good read to see just what I am referring to.  I found from the read that the story wasn't one easy life...definitely loaded with 'imperfective people who loved, angered and even grieved hard' especially as it was for Nick Stafford who was a single parent running a ranch, who had also been abandoned by his own mother. Now with Nick was having problems in school with his older daughter [Cheyenne]who was  feeling the abandonment of her mother needed help. That's when Nick  meets the 'lovely Dr. Elsa Andreas[who was a child psychologist]. From here this story takes off where you will find yourself turning the pages to see what will happen next as Elsa tries to help Nick and his daughters. Will Elsa be able to help?  What will happen when Nick and Elsa realize there was more to their relationship than just the girls where 'all four have deep places with secrets and darkness dwelling in them?'   Will they be able to explore a relationship?  This story also has some drama as the ex wife [Whitney] the estranged mother returns on the scene adding quite a mix to this very realistic story where old problems shows back up once again due to her old behavior.   I really enjoy from the read of getting when your life is messy there is a God to see you through it all.  I liked how Elsa was there to help Nick and his girls [ [six year old Dakota and eight year old Cheyenne] showing such inner strength with the twist and turns that were presented. This author did a wonderful job in presenting Elsa's past that really wrapped the story up in one unique cowboy read. In the end will Elsa be able to face her past and find a future that she had always wanted? Even though certain things has happened in Elsa life that she thought she didn't desire forgiveness after it is all say done I thought Elsa Andrea was a wonderful heroine in this read.  I think many would love to have a session or two with her!

 I found the main characters well developed, portrayed, relatable and believable as they were all trying to overcome adversity.  This was quite a warm contemporary 'Christian' fiction romance that the reader will think of long after the read plus you can get several wonderful recipes that were served at the 'Stafford' family dinners.  So, if you are looking for a read with people who make mistakes but are healed through love, redemption, the support of others, and finding faith, you have come to the right place for a sweet romance and hope then I would definitely recommend "Home On The Range" to you as a good read.

I received this book from Blogging for Books to read and review.

The Last Dance By: Kierney Scott

Book Description...

"American-born prima ballerina Georgina Fairley made a mistake that could destroy her. Now, saving her career means selling her soul to the Russian government. A spy who uses her body to lure men and secure their secrets, Georgina is tasked with seducing Roman Zakharov, the most dangerous oligarch in Russia.

Roman Zakharov a man with a past as ugly as his disfigured face. An assassination attempt left him horribly burned, but the scars go deeper than the frightening exterior. Jaded and cruel, he lets pots Georgina into his world but only to punish her and teach the pretty dancer that no one crosses Roman Zakharov. He will show her what it means to be used. And he will teach her to beg.

And in the end, they may teach each other to love..."

Title:  The Last Dance

Author:  Kierney Scott

Publisher:  Loose ID

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"The Last Dance" by Kierney Scott

My Thoughts....

This was definitely one of those romantic suspenseful reads that you will not want to put down until the very end.  In the end the reader gets a well written story that will put a smile on your face and saying well done to the author.  The two main characters Georgina and Roman were some very interesting characters in this hot and steamy erotic tale.  How Georgina gets mixed up with Roman was truly one story all by itself.  Who knew that there would be such a attraction between these two people. Even after everything seems to come to out just who Georgina was and all of her involvement with Pavel and being a spy, would Roman like this heroine even though there was much  doubt in his mind that he had about Georgina?  Will Georgina be able to carry through her assignment in seducing Roman? As the story continues on from the read one will soon find out that things don't go according to the plans that had been set out.  Why was that?  I will say this will be interesting in how this author presents to the reader quite a intriguing good read.  Will Roman turn out to be a good guy in the end? By the end of this story you have a good story of apprehension, a dark pass, deception, desire,    and less not forget to mention the erotic romance.   Well, I will stop here and just say you will have to pick up this good read to find out how this story will turn out.  Since it seems like Georgina is doing all she can do in order to survive  will she be able to do so without Roman?  I will definitely say that Roman was quite some hero of a character!

The Promise Kitchen By: Peggy Lampman

Book Description....

"Food, friendship, family, and a fresh start. Shelby Preston, a young single mother, is at a crossroads. She feels suffocated by her hardscrabble life in rural Georgia and dreams of becoming a professional chef. Lord knows her family could use a pot of something good. In Atlanta, Mallory Lakes is reeling from a bad breakup. The newspaper food columnist is also bracing for major changes at work that could put her job at risk. Determined to find the perfect recipe for how to reinvent herself, she gets involved in the growing farm-to-table movement. But an emotional setback threatens to derail everything she’s worked for. Shelby and Mallory couldn’t be more different. But through their shared passion for food, they form an unlikely friendship—a bond that just might be their salvation. This heartwarming and lyrical tale reminds us that family isn’t necessarily whom you’re related to—it’s whom you invite to your table. This is a new release of a previously published edition titled Simmer and Smoke; it contains twenty delightful recipes."

Title: The Promise Kitchen
Author:  Peggy Lampman
Publisher:  Lake Union Publishing
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"The Promise Kitchen" by Peggy Lampman

My Thoughts....

This story about the lives of Mallory and Shelby who were living near Atlanta, Georgia [after a life altering incident] with very different backgrounds.  Mallory being from a more privileged upbringing and Shelby having to fight for every penny she had.  However, certain events will bring these two together that will prove to be quite interesting...even sometimes humorous twist and turns. Two important questions may be asked...'Will Shelby [single mom] be able to fulfil her dream of becoming a chef and will Mallory get her life back tack and be able to do what she loves?'  to find out the reader will have to pick up this well written story to find out.   This author will give the readers quite a interesting and touching story to see if each of these ladies will be able to 'overcome the adversity they faced.'  At the end of the novel the reader will see the recipes that were mentioned in the story and they do look delicious.  In the end the reader gets the 'culinary back drop that will really put this friendship and family connections together' that I would recommend to you as a good read especially if you are into cooking.

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











ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley

Echoes Of Family By: Barbara Claypole White

Book Description...

"Sometimes the only way through darkness is to return to where it began.

Marianne Stokes fled England at seventeen, spiraling into the manic depression that would become her shadow. She left behind secrets, memories, and tragedy: one teen dead, and her first love, Gabriel, badly injured. Three decades later she’s finally found peace in the North Carolina recording studio she runs with her husband, Darius, and her almost-daughter, Jade…until another fatality propels her back across the ocean to confront the long-buried past.

In her picturesque childhood village, the first person she meets is the last person she wants to see again: Gabriel. Now the village vicar, he takes her in without question, and ripples of what if reverberate through both their hearts. As Marianne’s mind unravels, Jade and Darius track her down. Tempers clash when everyone tries to help, but only by finding the courage to face her illness can Marianne heal herself and her offbeat family."

Title:  Echoes Of  Family

Author:  Barbara Claypole White

Publisher:  Lake Union Publishing 

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Echoes Of Family" by Barbara Claypole White

My Thoughts....

What a well written story that was so heartbreaking that dealt with bipolar disorder.  The reader can tell that this author puts in much time with much research that was presented about this gripping disease. What will happen are a family is plunged into a crisis that involves mental illness. The main character Marianne was bipolar["a complex, successful woman who happens to be manic-depressive"], flawed and we find her having such a horrible time especially when she goes off of medication that caused her to sink into deep depression that lead to alcoholism and suicide attempts.
This was quite a rollercoaster emotional ride for Marianne.  Will she be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel?

It seems that those who loved her may have received Marianne as 'unpredictable, volatile, violent, evasive and unbearably arrogant.'

The author really gives the readers some well developed characters [Darius, Gabriel and Jade] that were presented being well developed, compelling, portrayed and believable giving us a a real 'true to life dialogue' definitely widening ones insight this disease.  "Echoes of Family" will definitely keep your attention all the way through to the end.  I was found being touched by this read that I would recommend to all to read.  I will say this story is somewhat gritty, tragedy, resilience, heartbreaking but keep on reading to the end because the reader may see some family love too. Now, to see how well this author presents this to her readers you must pick up this good fiction read and see for yourself.

I thought this was a very good read that helps one understand what it is like to have to live with this disease. It was really interesting seeing the love that was their for Marianne and seeing if  her family will finally come to terms of  with it.  One thing is for sure we may know of someone who has this disease...and the burning question is will they be willing to get the help they need?  I loved how this author brings out that "it can be controlled, and there is always hope at the end of the dark and desolate path to sanity."  This will definitely be one of those read that you will remember long after the read.

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