What the Island Asks by J Martin

 Book Excerpt:

'When Seraphina Lockwood returns to Hatteras Island after her father’s death, she expects only to settle unfinished business before returning to the life she built elsewhere. Instead, the island offers her something she never resolved: Beckett Crowe, the man she left behind, and the version of herself she abandoned with him.

As old rhythms resurface—wind, tide, wood, and weather—Sera is forced to confront the cost of escape and the quiet persistence of love rooted in place. Her reunion with Beckett is marked by restraint rather than urgency, shaped by years of absence and the shared knowledge of what leaving once destroyed.

What the Island Asks is a slow-burn literary romance about return, emotional inheritance, and the courage required not to run. It is a story of love that does not demand—but waits.'

Title:  What the Island Asks

Author:  J. Martin

Publisher:  J. M.

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

'What the Island Asks' by J. Martin

My Review:

'What the Island Asks' delivers an evocative blend of emotional depth and romance, delving into the complexities of aging and the exhilaration of rediscovered love.  

Expect suspense that will propel readers forward as Sera and Bennett’s story unfolds.  

By the end, readers experience a moving, satisfying story about rekindled love.  

Billionaire Lumberjack: A Standalone Billionaire Mountain Man Forced Proximity Romance (Lumberjacks in Love Book 1) Kindle Edition by Gwyn McNamee

 Book Excerpt:

"Rescued by the billionaire lumberjack...Lost.

Alone.
Freezing on the side of a desolate mountain in a massive snowstorm.
Until a rugged man with an ax saves me.
Waking in his warm, comfortable bed leaves more than one question.
How did I get here?
Where are my clothes?
And who is this handsome recluse with striking dark eyes and a grumpy demeanor?
The answers only bring more mysteries.
He doesn't want me here.
Doesn't want his secrets exposed.
I don't want him to know mine, either.
But there's only so long we can deny this sizzling attraction.
Only until I learn the truth about my billionaire lumberjack and our pasts come back to haunt us."

Grab this steamy stand-alone about a billionaire in hiding, the photographer who stumbles upon him, and what happens when they're trapped together during a major snowstorm with building attractions and dark secrets!

Title: Billionaire Lumberjack
Author: Gwyn McNamee
Publisher: G. M.
Series: Lumberjacks in Love Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Billionaire Lumberjack" by Gwyn McNamee

My Sentiments:

'Billionaire Lumberjack' is a well-written contemporary romance featuring Beau and Brooke, who both have secrets that were being held and not revealed, meeting during a snowstorm. We find that he was running and she was hiding. What will happen when it all comes out for these two complex people? Be ready for a read of mystery, suspense, and good chemistry together. To see if Beau and Brooke will find their way to a HEA, the reader must pick up this good read to see how the story will come together by the end.

Forgot to Say Goodbye: He Falls First, Enemies to Lovers, Office Romance Kindle Edition by S.L. Scott

 Book Excerpt:

"New York Times bestselling author, S.L. Scott, has crafted an epic and emotional story that embodies humor, great tension, a surprise pregnancy, and riveting standalone second chance romance with readers raving "intense chemistry and all-consuming!"

Noah Westcott should come with a warning: Too Hot to Handle!

The man is stunningly handsome with his embracing brown eyes and lips that make me want to kiss that smirk off his face.

How could I resist?

Spoiler: I didn't.

That was my first mistake.

I blame him for the second. It should have been easy and fun. No strings attached. No feelings. As if he commanded it like he did me in the bedroom, I did exactly what I said I wouldn't. I fell for him.

Two years later, the same man walked into my life. Again. A lot has changed. Not his devastating good looks or that smug grin, but for me, everything.

Now that Noah's back—in my office and hanging around after hours—I can't get distracted. I must protect my secret—the one who calls me Mommy."

Title: Forgot to Say Goodbye: He Falls First, Enemies to Lovers, Office Romance
Author: S. L. Scott
Publisher: S.L. Scott
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Forgot to Say Goodbye" by S. L. Scott

My Sentiments:

'Forgot to Say Goodbye' was a sweet story of Noah and Olivia coming together after a one-night stand. Later, they became co-workers, and that was when a big problem was presented. However, at this time, Noah had no clue as to what Olivia's problem was with him, but later, after finding out what it was... would he be able to rectify it?

The author did an excellent job with this story in giving the reader a good read of what happened almost two years after they were working together. Will Olivia be able to tell Noah now that they are reconnecting again?

This is where you must pick up this good read to see how well it all comes in this cute, sweet, steamy, heartwarming romantic story.

Mulberry Hollow by Denise Hunter

 Book Excerpt:

"Living life to the fullest always requires sacrifice.

Avery Robinson decided to be a physician after helplessly watching her mother lose a battle with a terrible disease. Avery guards her heart against love at the risk of developing the same illness. Nevertheless, she's driven to protect her loved ones as a workaholic doctor in the tiny mountain town of Riverbend Gap, North Carolina.

Contractor Wes Garrett is hiking the Appalachian trail in memory of the man who died saving his life when an illness racks his body. After an agonizing fifteen-mile hike to Avery's clinic, he collapses on her doorstep. He recovers to find himself in debt again, this time to a beautiful doctor.

When he decides to help her renovate a rundown carriage house, the obstacles to their attraction sprout like weeds—starting with the woman waiting for Wes at the end of the trail. Will he be able to relinquish the debt he owes his best friend? And will Avery find the courage to risk everything for love?"

The second book in Denise Hunter's popular Riverbend Romance series explores what it might be like to live fearlessly and free.

Title: Mulberry Hollow
Author: Denise Hunter
Series: Riverbend Romance #2
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Mulberry Hollow" by Denise Hunter

My Assessment:

'Mulberry Hollow' was a thoroughly gratifying, heartwarming, and emotional story that will keep your attention as you turn the pages. Along with the main characters, some wonderful secondary characters are well-developed, defined, and memorable, giving the reader a good read from start to finish. And let's not leave out the cat, Boot, and the interactions between Wes and his over-protective step-brother of Avery. By the way, 'Mulberry Hollow' is a neighborhood in Riverbend Gap, just off the Appalachian Trail.

It was good getting to know Dr. Avery Robinson, a workaholic doctor dealing with her difficulties, secrets, and issues, while finding another doctor who would come to Riverbend, North Carolina, to help her in her medical clinic. While this is accruing, what will happen when Wes Garrett passes out at Avery's clinic door needing medical help? Why was Wes hiking the Appalachian Trail to honor his friend Landon, who had passed away, and promised to take care of his sister Lillian? Why does Wes end up working for Avery to refurbish her carriage house? In this beautiful story, what were some heartbreaking decisions as they work through the pain Avery and Wes had to make while on this romantic journey? With Avery and Wes not looking for any relationship, what will happen when love finds a way? Be ready for a little bit of it all from 'laughter, tears, delight, and tenderness.'

You will have to pick up "Mulberry Hollow" and find out how well this author brings it all out for the readers, a beautiful read of sacrifice and love.

Thank you, Net Galley, and the publisher for the opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion of the read.

Things We Never Got Over Kindle Edition by Lucy Score

 Book Excerpt:

"

Bearded, bad-boy barber Knox prefers to live his life the way he takes his coffee: Alone. Unless you count his basset hound, Waylon.

Knox doesn't tolerate drama, even when it comes in the form of a stranded runaway bride.

Naomi wasn't just running away from her wedding. She was riding to the rescue of her estranged twin to Knockemout, Virginia, a rough-around-the-edges town where disputes are settled the old-fashioned way…with fists and beer. Usually in that order.

Too bad for Naomi; her evil twin hasn't changed at all. After helping Naomi's car and cash, Tina leaves her with something unexpected. The niece Naomi didn't know she had. So now she's stuck in town with no car, no job, no plan, and go home with an 11-year-old going on thirty to take care of.

There's a reason Knox doesn't do complications or high-maintenance women, especially not the romantic ones. But since Naomi's life imploded right in front of him, the least he can do is help her out of her jam. And just as soon as she stops getting into new trouble, he can leave her alone and get back to his peaceful, solitary life.

At least, that's the plan until the trouble turns to real danger."

Title: Things We Never Got Over
Author: Lucy Score
Publisher: That's What She Said Publishing
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Things We Never Got Over" by Lucy Score

My Assessment:

One can not help but enjoy 'Things We Never Got Over' in how well this author presents to the reader just a downright good story from start to finish. One can get emotional during the read as the reader will be taken on an emotional roller coaster of a ride as this story continues for Naomi and Knox. Be ready for a read with such incredible precious side characters 'real, funny, antics, town gossip, grumpiness, wit, lovable twists and turns, and entertaining' from this small town of Knockemout, VA. The real sad part of this story was no doubt of Naomi's twin sister, Tina. Now to find out what has gone in this good read ...pick up "Things We Never Got Over' and be prepared because this author leaves the reader with a bonus epilogue of Knox and Naomi that will be a satisfying ending.

Tangled Up In Blue (Grey Gulls Landing Book 1) Kindle Edition by S.I. Hayes

 Book Excerpt:

"Sutton‌ ‌Bishop‌ has always dreamed of a career in law enforcement. After years stuck in a loveless marriage, she finds herself divorced and a top graduate of the Academy. She is determined to juggle her life as a mom and a new recruit to the Steel Head family, even if her partner is an ornery jerk.

A sexy ornery jerk.

Marcus Cameron was once an esteemed member of the K9 unit until his canine partner was lost in the line of duty. He’s hardened his heart and tightened his britches to move on. Tasked with a babysit, he just wants to do the job and go home so he can drink and fish.
When the pair encounter a key player in an ongoing DEA/FBI investigation, it doesn’t matter how unhappy he is or how green she may be-all all bets are off, and hearts toe the line as they find themselves tangled up in blue."

Title:  Tangled Up In Blue

Author:  S.I. Hayes & J. Haney

Publisher:  S. I. H. & J.H.

Series:  Grey Gulls Landing Book 1                     

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Four

Review:

Tangled Up In Blue" by S.I. Hayes and J. Haney

My Opinion:  

Interesting story of a police investigation, along with a steamy romance of two agents [Sutton & Marcus] who were divorced with a total of six children together.  How will this story all come together for them after an affair involving Sutton's father comes to light, and these two families will have to go undercover and investigate?  What will happen when Sutton and Marcus seem to have feelings for one another, and then there seems to be another problem...is she pregnant?   Be ready for many things that will go on between the two adults, and let's not leave out the humorous conflicts that will come from their creative children.  You will have to pick up "Tangled Up In Blue" to get the whole story that will only leave the reader wanting to know more of what will happen next for this family.  

Nailing Mr. Nasty (Campy Romances Series Book 2) Kindle Edition by Deborah Camp

 Book Excerpt:

"They call him Mr. Nasty . . .

Jack Nast knows better than to date an employee, especially a curvy, sexy employee like Samantha Striker. Sam knows better than to tug the tail of a lion-like Jack Nast, but she just can't help herself. He's big, brawny, and teeming with testosterone. How's a girl supposed to resist that combination? Besides, he doesn't scare her!
Much."

Another fun, sexy "Campy Romance" for your reading pleasure!

Title: Nailing Mr. Nasty
Author: Deborah Camp
Publisher: D.C.
Series: Campy Romances Series Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Nailing Mr. Nasty" by Deborah Camp

My Opinion:

'Nailing Mr. Nasty' was quite a sweet romantic read that will keep the reader turning the pages to see what is coming next for Samantha [Sam] Striker and Jack Nast. I enjoyed how well this author puts the story together in just why was Jack called 'Mr. Nasty' in the first place. What will happen when these two meet with Sam being an employee of Jack. I will say it was quite a meeting with Sam being a little more than what Jack thought. Now, why was that? Sam is working for contractor Jack Nast during the time for her best friends during her maternity leave.

So, how did Jack get this name of being called 'Mr. Nasty?' What will all go on between these two as Sam works as Jack's office manager? What will happen as these two seem to have some funny bartering going on, and oh, I don't want to leave out the hot chemistry that these two seem to have toward each other. I will stop here and say you must pick up this good read, 'Nailing Mr. Nasty,' to see how this author answers all the questions above, giving the readers a well-written story that will keep you turning the pages.

I will say that this story involved a subject that I found somewhat sad about how the story was processed with the way the story all turned out. However, at least Jack could get the help he needed to move forward in his family situation.

Mine to Keep: A Steamy Protective Hero Romance (NOLA Knights Book 3) Rhenna Morgan

 Book Excerpt:

"She’s in way over her head.

Bonnie Drummond is from the wrong side of the tracks, raised in a family of liars and criminals. No matter how hard she tries to stay on the straight and narrow, she always finds herself sucked back into the family drama, forced to sacrifice everything she’s earned to protect her family.

But this time, they’ve gone too far—crossed the wrong people—and to save them, she’ll have to put her life on the line.

Roman Kozlov, the enforcer for a New Orleans mafia family, is the poster child for Bonnie's life, struggling to escape. But he’s also as alluring as he is dangerous, and it doesn’t take long for their lives to begin to mesh.

With Roman, Bonnie finds the family she never had.

As their race for answers heats up, so too does the budding romance between them. And with danger nipping at her heels and love threatening her heart, Bonnie must come face-to-face with her past if she wants to have a future.

NOLA Knights

Book 1: His to Defend

Book 2: Hers to Tame

Book 3: Mine to Keep

Title:  Mine to Keep

Author:  Rhenna Morgan

Publisher:  R. M.

Series:  NOLA Knights Book 3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Mine to Keep: A Steamy Protective Hero Romance" by Rhenna Morgan

My Speculation:  

"Mine to Keep" was a wonderful, beautiful contemporary romantic read with Bonnie Drummond being the heroine and Roman Kozlov, the hero.  What will happen when Bonnie needs help as she finds that her father and brother were missing and she calls her friend Cassie.  One thing for sure, Bonnie didn't know what or how all of the help would come from that call she made to her friend.  Bonnie didn't know that Cassie was from a New Orleans mafiya family, and when someone was in trouble, all will become involved to help.  This was somewhat difficult for Bonnie because she was not used to this sort of treatment from her own family, and this did overwhelm her quite a bit.  However, as she got to know more about Cassie's family, Bonnie began to relax somewhat, and it seems like there was Roman, who, for some reason, referred to her as his malen'kaya koroleva. To find out what that means, you will have to pick up "Mine to Keep" and see just what that was for Bonnie.  Will Roman start to have feelings for Bonnie?  Will Bonnie finally find a family like she never has ever had?  Will Roman be able to find Bonnie's father and brother?  The story gets intense, and it will be quite one intriguing story as "Bonnie must come face-to-face with her past if she wants to have a future."  Will this be possible for Bonnie to finally have a life where she is truly loved and cared for by doing something she really wanted to do for herself?  To get all of these questions answered  and so much more, you must pick up 'Mine to Keep!'  

Sweet on You by Carla de Guzman

 Book Excerpt:

"All’s fair in love and prank wars

For barista and café owner Sari Tomas, Christmas means parols, family, and no-holds-barred karaoke contests. This year, though, a new neighbor is throwing a wrench in all her best-laid plans. The baker next door—“some fancy boy from Manila”—might have cute buns, but when he tries to poach her customers with cheap coffee and cheaper tactics, the competition is officially on.

And Baker Boy better is ready because Sari never loses.

Foodie extraordinaire Gabriel Capras wants to prove to his dad that his career choice doesn’t make him any less a man. The Laneways might not be Manila, but the close-knit community is the perfect spot to grow his bakery into a thriving business. He wasn’t expecting a gorgeous adversary in the barista next door, but flirting with her makes his heart race, and it’s not just the caffeine.

Its winner takes all this Christmas. And more than one competitor might just lose their heart for the holidays."

Title: Sweet On You
Author: Carla de Guzman
Publisher: Carina Press
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Sweet on You" by Carla de Guzman

My Speculation:

I like how this author presents 'Sweet on You' that features Sari, a coffee expert, and Gabriel [Gab] being a baker extraordinaire of main sweets. I loved the food descriptions. I like how the romance started for these two with prank wars but ended up quite different as the story continued as these two began to falls for each other. What was somewhat surprising was that 'they took only three days to fall for each other. The secondary characters, especially the siblings, really helped bring out the story to the reader. I enjoyed the country of the Philippines that was represented and the culture that was well presented. By the end of the read, the reader will be presented with a 'sweet romance, Christmas Cheer, along with some delicious food.'

Thank you to the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

Un-Leashed by J. Haney & S. I. Hayes

Blurb:

"And they call it Puppy Love...

Four years ago, tragedy hit and now Bennett Reynor sat in his mansion, alone. He gets everything he could want to be delivered straight to his door. His business partner Stanley would like to see him move on and live his life, but Bennett is content in his solitude, often letting his disdainful words drive everyone away.

When Bennett Reynor's husky Mia takes off, setting her on a muddy and cold pursuit, she finds herself in the yard of a grand estate while her pup is being accosted by an albino Doberman. Little does she know she's about to come face to face with the ornery owner.

Heated words are gonna fly when these two let loose their mouths with hilarious results."

Title: Un-Leashed
Author: J. Haney & S. I. Hayes
Publisher: Haney & Hayes
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Un-Leashed" by J. Haney & S. I. Hayes

My Speculation:

I love this story "Un-Leashed" that these authors have given us featuring Bennett Reynor and Clover Prescott. I enjoyed how this story comes together, bringing in two lovable dogs. Yes, both of these people have dogs[Marius & Mia], and when one gets loose on someone else's property, things will take quite a turn for Bennett and Clover. We find that even though Bennett had troubles living with his grief and loved living in solitude, I found him still having a heart with what he offered to Clover. I loved how good Bennet was with Clover's little brother, Genkei. As the story continues, one will see as love will blossom for Bennett, Clover, Genkei, and let's not leave out those beautiful dogs.

These authors worked there magic as the story will involve the deadly disease 'The Coronavirus.' This virus was well worked into this story letting the reader understand what is going on. As I read through the story, I found it identified the story as it is happening today in America, 2020. As you read the story, you will see how well these authors are on top of this subject matter in how they presented this all to the reader.

The characters from the story were to be well-developed in helping the information run so smoothly that it will keep your attention to the end. I enjoyed them all from Bennett, Marius-Dog, [Brynna & Janey], Stanley, Jenna, Gertie, Gabe, Sydney, Clover, Mia-Dog, Elara, Shanice, Genkei, Jerica, to Mikelle Sachi.

By the end, will Bennett and Clover get their HEA? I did like the little surprise we received toward the end. I will stop here because I don't want to give too much away but keep one interested in wanting you to pick up "Un-Leashed" to see how well this story was delivered.

Amber Waves of Grace Kindle Edition by Jessica Berg

Book Excerpt:

"After her father's accident, Corrie Lancaster moves back to the family farm just in time to help with the harvest. With a bumper crop of wheat waiting, the farm's only hired hand quits, leaving Corrie with no choice but to accept the help of her old boyfriend's older brother, Aaron Tuttle. It seems like the perfect plan until Corrie realizes ex-flame Luke isn't over her. But even with Luke's apologies and attempts to rekindle their romance, Corrie can't forget his past betrayal.

Between harvesting, keeping tabs on her younger siblings, and watching her parents' marriage crumble, Corrie leans on Aaron for emotional support. Wading through jealousy was never on Corrie's to-do list, but as she navigates the choppy waters, she finds herself falling for Aaron's good looks and charming wit.

Just when Corrie thinks she has everything under control, a stranger seeking shelter comes to the farm, and an old nemesis returns for revenge. As destructive forces align against her, Corrie must decide which man's love will bring her back to life and restore her faith in herself, her family, and her purpose."

Title:  Amber Waves of Grace
Author:  Jessica Berg
Publisher:  Red Adept Publishing, LLC 
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"Amber Waves of Grace" by Jessica Berg

My Speculation: 

A beautiful story of one powerful and inspirational read that will keep you turning the pages to see how it will all go down for Corrie Lancaster.  When it seems like all is going against her help from her old boyfriend's brother, but at the same time, it looks like there will be problems with her ex-flame as it seems like he wants to rekindle their romance.  

With it seeming like all is on Corrie from 'harvesting, keeping tabs on her younger siblings, seeing her
parents' marriage crumble, who will be there for her emotional support?' And then what will happen when
another person arrives at their farm that needs help and an 'old nemesis returns for revenge?'  

What a story this will be as this author delivers quite a well-written script to the reader where Corrie will
have a lot of decisions to make as to 'bring her back to life and restore her faith in herself, her family,
and her life's purpose.'

Thank you to the authors for the read of your novel and my giving an honest opinion of the read.

Bedding Mr. Birdsong, by Deborah Camp

Book Excerpt:

A little birdy told me...

Beautiful women fly in and out of Matthew Birdsong’s apartment, but no one has a permanent roost there. Matt caged his heart after a bitter divorce. Zaney Miller, his neighbor, believes she can set Matt’s heart free to love again. But can she do it without falling in love with him and breaking her own heart in the process?

Title:  Bedding Mr. Birdsong
Author:  Deborah Camp
Publisher:  D. C.
Reviewed By Arlena Dean
Rating:  Five
Review:

"Bedding Mr. Birdsong" by Deborah Camp

My Speculation:

I enjoyed "Bedding Mr. Birsong" that featured Zaney Miller and Matthew Birdsong.  I loved how these two people were brought together in this story in a humorous sort of way. After Zaney finds
out that Matt is her neighbor, what will she do to meet him?  With Matt thinking he could get any woman he wanted but was stopped when it didn't go his way with meeting Zaney. She was not having it even though she had feelings for Matt but knowing that he needed to see himself in a different light.  Matt went off the chart toward women after his divorce from Carin.  What will happen when Matthew finally begins to see what had gone wrong in his life with help from Zaney? How far will these two take their friendship?   I liked most of the characters [Zaney, Matt, Lonnie, Seth, Foster, Frito Pie{the Dog}, Vivian & Gary] from this story that brought on some intense moments but yet good ones that will hold one's attention, bringing in some happy moments in this story.  By the end of this story, will Zaney and Matt get their HEA?  Well, this is where I say you will have to pick up this well-written read to see how well this author will bring it all out to the reader.

If you are looking for a sweet romantic story, I would recommend "Bedding Mr. Birdsong" to you like a good read.

A Touch of Heaven Kindle Edition by Leanora Moore

Book Excerpt:

"Juggling with being a single mother and the Senior Pastor of Heavenly Kingdom Baptist Church, Layla Jenkins is reunited with someone from her past. The moment they see each other, the flaming attraction they shared so long ago was rekindled. Will Layla hold on to her faith in God, as she goes through trials and tribulations in her personal life and in her church."


Title: A Touch of Heaven
Author: Leanora Moore
Publisher: L.M.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"A Touch of Heaven" by Leanora Moore

My Speculation:

I loved this story that showed so much love that Layla and Victor had for one another. Even after things had happened, and they parted when it was time, they were back again. It was quite interesting how their parents had come in and interfered with their relationship, especially Victor's mom, well I will stop here and just say you will have to pick up this read to see for yourself what that was all about. For the life of me did not understand why they weren't a particular secret that did come out so well in the long run. It was good seeing how well this story comes together with the son Terrell finally getting what he wanted so badly for himself, his parents Layla and Victor finally getting their HEA. This was a beautifully told story of Layla finally getting her 'touch of heaven.' 

Penned State By: S. I. Hayes

Book Excerpt:
Calvin Pennington is a good boy.

He goes to school, gets good grades. Always does his homework and always listens to mother and father. Except in one thing.
His friendship with Kaycee McLane. Much to his parent's dismay, he has befriended the girl from the wrong side of town and he will not shake her.
What happens when Calvin decides he wants more?
Will his family give? Or will they dig in their heels and put a stop to this budding romance before it starts?
"Calvin Pennington is a good boy.
He goes to school, gets good grades. He always does his homework and always listens to his mother and father. Except in one thing.
His friendship with Kaycee McLane. Much to his parent's dismay, he has befriended the girl from the wrong side of town, and he will not shake her.
What happens when Calvin decides he wants more?
Will his family give? Or will they dig in their heels and put a stop to this budding romance before it starts?
Can Calvin stand up to his family, and if he does, can he accept the consequences?"

*Trigger Warning
**Stong Sexual Content
***Drug UseCalvin Pennington is a good boy.

He goes to school, gets good grades. Always does his homework and always listens to mother and father. Except in one thing.
His friendship with Kaycee McLane. Much to his parent's dismay, he has befriended the girl from the wrong side of town and he will not shake her.
What happens when Calvin decides he wants more?
Will his family give? Or will they dig in their heels and put a stop to this budding romance before it starts? Calvin Pennington is a good boy.

He goes to school, gets good grades. Always does his homework and always listens to mother and father. Except in one thing.
His friendship with Kaycee McLane. Much to his parent's dismay, he has befriended the girl from the wrong side of town and he will not shake her.
What happens when Calvin decides he wants more?
Will his family give? Or will they dig in their heels and put a stop to this budding romance before it starts? Calvin Pennington is a good boy.

He goes to school, gets good grades. Always does his homework and always listens to mother and father. Except in one thing.
His friendship with Kaycee McLane. Much to his parent's dismay, he has befriended the girl from the wrong side of town and he will not shake her.
What happens when Calvin decides he wants more?
Will his family give? Or will they dig in their heels and put a stop to this budding romance before it starts?

Title: Penned State
Author: S. I. Hayes
Publisher: S.I. H.
Series: Young Hearts Duet Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review
"Penned State" by S. I. Hayes

My Speculation:

I will say this was one of those reads that will keep your attention turning the pages to see what is coming next for these two main characters Calvin and Kaycee. I am not sure whom I felt sorrier for between those two. Well, for a while, it seemed like all was going OK for the two, then the story will open up and be hard for them. With Cal being kicked out of his house, however, it was lucky for him in how Kaycee's grandfather and mother took him in. At school, other problems were presented, but somehow they made it out of that. It looks like Cal's parents still had grudges toward him, but all seemed to go well until a specific visit Cal's father paid to Kaycee. Yes, as Kaycee was planing to moved with Cal after graduation where they had a home and all but from Cal's father's visit, she all of a sudden wanted marriage.

As the story goes being engaged, oh did I say being pregnant wasn't enough for Kaycee all of a sudden she wanted marriage, which put a lot of pressure on Cal. With all that was on Cal from going to classes, working, taking care of Kaycee along with her pregnancy, one can see how one thing brought on something horrible where drugs become involved, and one can see how the story will take quite a turn for these two.

I will stop here and just say you will have to pick up this well-written story to see how things will turn out for Cal and Kaycee. I will say I didn't care for Kaycee's mom! I know she had been through a lot, but the way she tried to handle her daughter with Cal's problems wasn't done very well. I did like the ending in how Kaycee decided to take matters into her own hands and deal with her and Cal's problems. We are left hoping all will come out well for these two as they are now seeing one another along with the baby. Yes, they still loved each other, even all has happened. It seems like Calvin is now trying to get a handle on his life in his addiction recovery, so we are left hoping the best of luck to them as they seek out new beginnings.