Before We Were Strangers Kindle Edition by Brenda Novak

 Book Excerpt:

"New York Times–Bestselling Author: "I loved this twisty tale of friends, enemies, lovers, liars, and a family fractured by secrets." —Susan Wiggs

Five-year-old Sloane McBride couldn't sleep that night. Her parents were arguing again, their harsh words heating the cool autumn air. And then there was that other sound—the ominous thump before all went quiet.

In the morning, her mother was gone.

The official story was that she left. Her loving, devoted mother! That hadn't sat any better at the time than it did when Sloane moved out at eighteen, anxious to leave her small Texas hometown in search of anywhere else. But not even a fresh start working as a model in New York could keep the nightmares at bay. Or her fears that the domineering father she grew up with wasn't just difficult—he was deadly.

Now another traumatic loss forces Sloane to realize she owes it to her mother to find out the truth, even if it means returning to a town full of secrets and lies, a jilted ex-boyfriend, and a father and brother who'd rather see her silenced. But as Sloane starts digging into the past, the question isn't whether she can uncover what really happened that night—it's what will remain of her family if she does . . ."

Title:  Before We Were Strangers

Author:  Brenda Novak

Publisher:  Mira

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

'Before We Were Strangers' by Brenda Novak

My Review:  

'Before We Were Strangers' was quite an interesting Thriller that kept me turning the pages to see what was coming next, with romance, mystery, family drama, and even a murder. Be ready for lots of twists and turns in this story that will keep you turning, shaking your head, and saying, "I didn't see that coming," along with a lot of guessing. There were many interesting characters with flaws all over the place. By the end, this was a good, interesting story.  

Her Vow (The Enigma Series) Kindle Edition by Aja

 Book Excerpt:

"Sarai never had it easy, but everything changed when she met Malachi Montgomery, the love of her life. With him, she finally felt at peace, like she belonged. She could be more than just a gangster's daughter. To Malachi, she was his Goddess, his everything.

But Malachi came with his own baggage—a mom who saw Sarai as a roadblock to her son's future.

Will family drama tear them apart before they can start their lives together, or will their love win out?"

Title:  Her Vow

Author:  Aja

Publisher:  She Loves Words Publishing LLC (July 27, 2024)

Series:  The Enigma Series

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Her Vow" by Aja

My Perception:  

'Her Vow' is a good story about Sarai finally getting her true love with Malachi. Yes, Sarai was tested by being abandoned by her mother and now by Malachi's mom, who presented problems. However, she was able to handle that situation with the help of her therapist through counseling. 

By the end, we see Sarai finally learning to love herself, her family, and Malachi.  

This author did a fantastic job presenting the reader with a good read.

Bye, Baby A Novel by Carola Lovering

 Book Excerpt:

"On a brisk fall night in a New York apartment, 35-year-old Billie West hears terrified screams. It's her lifelong best friend Cassie Barnwell, one floor above, and she's just realized her infant daughter has gone missing. Billie is shaken as she looks down into her own arms to see the baby, remembering—with a jolt of fear—that she is responsible for the kidnapping that has instantly shattered Cassie's world.

Once fiercely bonded by their secrets, Cassie and Billie have drifted apart in adulthood, no longer the inseparable pair they used to be in their small Hudson Valley hometown. Cassie is married to a wealthy man, has recently become a mother, and is building a following as a lifestyle influencer. She is desperate to leave her past behind—including Billie, who is single and childless and no longer fits into her world. But Billie knows the worst thing Cassie has ever done, and she will do whatever it takes to restore their friendship…

Told in alternating perspectives in Lovering's signature suspenseful style, Bye, Baby confronts the myriad ways friendships change and evolve over time, the lingering echoes of childhood trauma, and the impact of women's choices on their lifelong relationships."

Title:  Bye Baby

Author:  Carola Lovering

Publisher:  St. Martin's Press

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Bye, Baby" by Carola Lovering

My Thoughts:

"Bye, Baby" was quite a read that once you start reading [and it was a long read], you will not want to put it down until the end. From the characters, friendships, and twists and turns, wow, what a read this one was that will give one a lot to think about long after the read.

How did Cassie and Billie, best friends from high school, 's friendship turn so toxic? Well, all that is left to say is that this is what can happen when someone decides to poke in and try to destroy it all, and in the end...it happens. Was it the secret that broke them up, jealousy, or were they such opposites? Is this what happens when people grow up and change?

Be ready for a read that takes in a lot...from 'toxic relationships, messy friendships, motherhood, trauma, and toxic narcissism and much more' that you will just have to pick up this read to try to understand it all if you can. 

I will stop here and say, pick up 'Bye, Baby,' and see how well this author gives it all to the reader. I didn't think this was a happy read; however, you know what you feel about this thriller read. I was left shaking my head and saying what a friendship this one was. Ok, I will stop here.

I was given this book in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC.

Obsession by Stuart Woods & Brett Battles

Book Excerpt:

"Teddy Fay must put all his skills to the test in this electrifying new adventure in the New York Times bestselling series.

While filming on location in scenic Santa Barbara, California, Peter Barrington and Ben Bacchetti look to expand Centurion Studios' business by making a deal with a young Croatian tech billionaire. But when the magnate’s wife is kidnapped, Teddy Fay is brought in to assess the threat and recover the young woman.

As Teddy unravels the threads of her disappearance, he quickly comes to find an old vendetta seethes at the center, one that puts them all at risk. The danger lurks even nearer to home as an obsessive fan with perilous intentions weasels his way onto the film set. Only Teddy can stop him from getting too close for comfort."

Title: Obsession
Author: Stuart Woods & Brett Battles
Publisher: PENGUIN GROUP Putnam, G.P. Putnam's Sons
Series: Teddy Fay Book 6
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Obsession" by Stuart Woods & Brett Battles
My Sentiments:

Wow, what a wonderful read as we see Teddy Fay is back at it again as an actor, Mark, and producer [Teddy/Mark/Billy]. We will see Teddy will also have to deal with an obsessive fan who was after a man's wife and there will be more...

It is good to see how well these authors bring it out to the reader as we see how this entertaining, filled with suspense, intrigue, twists, turns, and glitz read will be put so well in this series. 'Obsession' is one of those reads that it will be hard to put down until the end. The story will be quite an enjoyable CIA/Double Agent type that will keep one turning the pages to see how these two plots are brought out in the end.

Thank you to Netgallery and the publisher for the review copy of your read.

That's Not Yo Chic It's Just Yo Turn Kindle Edition by Niki Jilvontae

 Book Excerpt:

"Living a lie isn't easy, but it becomes second nature when you tell yourself what you’re doing is for the greater good. This is a reality for 25-year-old Jamar Maxwell, an ex-NBA star from Memphis. Jamar grew up with four friends, one of whom was his best friend/twin from birth Bryce. Growing up in the hood, Jamar was the star of the click because he had all the popularity and clout his homies wanted. He shared it with them too and anything else he had because in his eyes they were his brothers and what was his was theirs by law of the streets. He lived with that philosophy for years until people's true colors started to show. Soon Jamar found out that those he was most loyal to weren’t loyal to him at all, and that sh*t didn’t sit well with him. That harsh reality along with each of their faults, led Jamar on a mission to destroy their egos and shatter those glass houses all around them. One by one he slept with their girls and left his mark on their hearts all while he had the perfect family waiting for him at home. That happy world away from the chaos didn't last long though, because everything that happens in the dark eventually comes to the light, and that's when people get hurt and drama unfolds in this twisted tale. Soon Jamar finds himself up against hate, drama, violence, life-changing secrets, and even death all because of his insatiable appetite for other peoples' women. In the end, will Jamar teach his disloyal friends a lesson? Or will he become the man who finds out... That's Not Yo Chic, It's Just Yo Turn!"

Title: That's Not Yo Chick It's Just Yo Turn
Author: Niki Jilvontae
Publisher: N. J. ‎
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"That's Not Yo Chic It's Just Yo Turn" by Niki Jilvontae

My Sentiments:

When Jamar thinks that life is going well for him, married to Milan with two boys, what will happen when he finds out that his friends, especially his best friend, Bryce was not his friend? But one may ask...what brought all of this on? What had Jamar done that karma soon came for him? I don't want to tell it to you, but you the reader should pick this story up because the author brings it all out so well to what Jamar was doing and it seemed to think in his mind that it was ok. What I couldn't understand seemed to understand just why his friends were being disloyal to him. However, his friends and the woman he was fooling around with didn't like him doing what he was doing and yes, he was called out on it, even though they were doing the same. It was karma coming back to bite him especially when his wife found out. But was she one to say anything after all she had previously done? Again, pick up 'That's Not Yo Chic Just You Turn' to see how it will...well it seems like we have a cliffhanger, toward the end, and you will have to go to the next story to find out who is still alive. Be ready for many twists and turns in this mystery, thriller, and suspenseful read, along with 'hate, drama, violence, secrets, and death' that will keep one turning the pages to see what will be going on next for Jamar and all the karma that seems to be coming straight for him. Who will learn a lesson from all of this with all of the chaos that is going on?

Reversible Error (Lainey Abbott Book 2) Kindle Edition by Nia Forrester

 Book Excerpt:

"Book 2 of the Lainey Abbott Series

It's one thing to defend a client everyone thinks is guilty ... it's quite another to defend him if you think so, too.

Former ADA turned defense lawyer Lainey Abbott is beginning to worry. It looks like the rest of her professional life will be spent representing dope boys in stop-and-frisk cases just to help keep the lights on at her and Greg Knight's law practice. Then, a star football player from an elite college shows up at their door.

A young, beautiful classmate, with whom he had an erratic three-month fling, was just found dead, and right away, he's in the NYPD's crosshairs. Could be a fairly straightforward case to defend. Or maybe not. He's Black, and the missing girl is white.

Without hesitation, Lainey agrees to represent him. She and Greg are hungry for a case like this because they know firsthand how unequal American justice can be. Soon, the 'straightforward' case becomes much more complicated than they ever imagined. And if that weren't bad enough, Lainey's relationship with Det. Russ Sanders might be unraveling. He isn't crazy about her working on criminal defense and, worse yet, with a former lover as a law partner.

But the biggest test of all is yet to come, and once again, it's about her missing sister, Stephanie."

Title: Reversible Error
Author: Nia Forrester
Publisher: Stiletto Press LLC; 1st edition
Series: Lainey Abbott Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Reversible Error" by Nia Forrester

My Sentiments:

As we continue from book one, we find that Lainey Elaine Abbott is working with Greg as a Defense Lawyer in this new partnership. They will soon take on a case where we find out who called Kelsey Freeman. What will happen when an athlete, Kurt Blaze, is accused of this murder and seeks these lawyers to help him? Also, in this story, will we discover that Lainey's sister's death wasn't an accident? A lot will be going on, so you must keep up. What will happen as we find Lainey, who is working with Greg? Yes, the guy she once dated and is now working with him as a law partner. Will Russ... Laniney's now boyfriend, have any thoughts about that?

The reader will have to keep up because this will be a pretty intriguing good mystery, thriller, and suspense read, and by the end, one will get the answer to one of these central questions: Who is the person who murdered Kelsey Freeman?

Jane Doe Black (Lainey Abbott Book 1) Kindle Edition by Nia Forrester

Book Excerpt:

"She dedicated her life to working for the justice system, but it didn't work for her when she needed it most.

On the eve of the trial, Assistant District Attorney Lainey Abbott gets a disturbing phone call. Her baby sister, Stephanie, who should have been back at her college dorm after visiting for the weekend, never arrived. At first, she isn't too worried because she's a system insider with plenty of resources available to locate her sister quickly, including Russ Sanders, the police detective she's been on and off with for years. It'll take a couple days, tops. They'll find Steph and give her a piece of their mind for being so irresponsible.

But a year later, Stephanie still hasn't been found.

And what's worse, the system Lainey once had so much faith in, no longer seems inclined to look. Reeling from the loss, her career and personal life are in freefall, and most days, she can't even bring herself to care.

Until another case surfaces, of a girl who's gone missing under strikingly similar circumstances to Steph's..."

Title: Jane Doe Black
Author: Nia Forrester
Publisher: Stiletto Press, LLC
Series: Lainey Abbot Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Jane Doe Black" by Nia Forrester

My Sentiments:

'Jane Doe Black' was a read that will keep one turning the pages to see what was going on with Lainey Elaine] Abbott, a New York Assistant District Attorney after her sister Stephanie's visit went missing on her way back to Penn University supposedly. This will be quite a read as Lainey has another problem to contend with...her drinking. What will happen after her friend or ex-boyfriend Russ Sanders, who was a police detective, comes to Elaine's rescue trying to help her find her sister? This is a case in which the police seemed incompetent, as they seemed to let cases become cold way too soon. I shouldn't have said that...but check this read out for yourself!

It will be quite a read with lots of twists and turns, complex characters, as we see how the injustice system can be, missing women of color, death, suspense, mystery, romance, angst, and a family member who was a person whom Lainey thought she knew, but did she really?

As the story ends, the reader will not be left hanging, as the author gives it all to us. You will have to pick up this good read to see what she did for us by the end of this story. It is indeed a good, well-written story.

Barroom Blues: Last Call For Love (The Tennessee Whiskey Series Book 10) Kindle Edition by Amber Ghe

 Book Excerpt:

"New Orleans, where she finds an apartment above the famous Barroom Blues. Here, she meets Mojo Johnson, a captivating saxophonist who ignites her creative and romantic passions, leaving her heart ablaze. But their burgeoning love is threatened by a dark, ominous presence lurking in the shadows, stalking Zara's every move.

Then, things turn unexpectedly when Mojo is sued for child support for a secret baby. As secrets come to light and hard-hitting truths unravel, Zara's life spirals out of control. She begins to question whether love is worth the risk when her safety and heart are on the line. But when things seem like they can't get any more complicated, Mojo's past comes back to haunt him, pushing the couple's relationship to the brink.

Zara and Mojo must fight to hold onto what they built before the chaos. Will their love survive the trials that threaten to tear them apart?"

Title: Barrom Blues: Last Call For Love
Author: Ambe Ghe
Publisher: B. Love Publications
Series: The Tennessee Whiskey Series Book 10
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Barroom Blues: Last Call For Love" by Amber Ghe

My Sentiments:

'Barroom Blues: Last Call For Love' was an excellent romantic read as Zara has moved from Atlanta to New Orleans and meets an enchanting saxophone player who sets her 'heart ablaze.' When they finally met, Zara knew she had found someone she might be able to love, and pretty much the same was felt by Mojo.

However, things will change when it seems like a stalker is stalking Zona. But was this true because of what Mojo had received in the mail? Will this friendship become something more as we see more drama, with plots and twists coming for these two?

To get this whole story, you must pick this good read to see how it all will turn out for these two characters.

My Bitch, Yo Bitch, Everybody's Bitch 3 Kindle Edition by Niki Jilvontae

 Book Excerpt:

"After finding out that his entire marriage was a lie, Mike has a mental break that opens the door for the anonymous stalker to step in. Out of his mind with hurt, jealousy, and rage, Mike sets out to make LiLi and Dee feel all of the pain he's felt. However, he doesn't know that the stalker has a deadly agenda of his own. Now Mike must face the demon inside of him and the one threatening his family while trying to remain sane and keep his bitch. Come on this drama-filled, thrill ride and find out once and for all, if LiLi is Mike's Bitch, Dee's Bitch, Everybody's Bitch,...or NOBODY'S BITCH!"

Title: My Bitch, Yo Bitch, Everybody's Bitch 3
Author: Niki Jilvontae
Publisher: N. J.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"My Bitch, Yo Bitch, Everybody's Bitch 3" by Niki Jilvontae

My Sentiments:

'My Bitch, You Bitch, Everybody's Birch 3' was quite a read. I would definitely suggest to really understanding what has gone on earlier in this read... please read this author's first two novels before tackling this last book 3. You will not be sorry. Well, we find Mike is back at it again trying to get back at what had been taken from him, so we find him setting out to get those who had hurt him. However, it seems like someone else was out to get Mike. I don't want to tell too much of the story other than to say pick up this good read to see how things turn out for ... LiLi, Dee, and Patrick. What will happen when Frank comes into play? Will he be able to save Mike? As we come to the end of the epilogue we see maybe Mike may not be so safe after all is said and done. Will there be more to this story? Well, I guess we will have to wait and see what this author will do with that ending.

Slick (The Enigma Series Book 3) Kindle Edition by Aja

 Book Excerpt:

"Sarai "Slick" Lewis is the family princess with the most to learn.

Slick is known to be the loose cannon: explosive & unpredictable, so she needs help to get out of a bind all the time. Malachi is all too happy to help her the best way he knows how – brains and tenacity. But it's not enough to stop what's been boiling over since her mother left.
The truth is that only she can save herself, but love can help."

Title: Slick
Author: Aja
Publisher: She Loves Words Publishing LLC
Series: The Enigma Series Book 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Slick" by Aja

My Sentiments:

'Slick' was a good series, a well-written story that we learned a bit more about Sarai. Sarai was quite a character in being 'a loose cannon...explosive & unpredictable.' However, when Malachi [Chi] comes into the picture, being this family lawyer, and Sarai needs some help, he is right there for her, giving her encouragement and healing and the love she also needs in her life. Some interesting characters, especially Malachi's mom, Carmen, Elijah [Smoke], and Eli [Maestro]. I especially loved that Sarai finally saw that she was truly loved by her father, brother, and Malachi.

Be ready for plenty of 'drama, mayhem, anger, family issues, and therapy counseling sessions' that bring the story altogether. If you haven't read the other two series, you may want to read them before reading this last series because it will make more sense to one that has read all of the series since this was the climax.

Bitter Bestfriend 2: The Sins Of My Twin...Blood Isn't Always Thicker Than Water Kindle Edition by Niki Jilvontae

Book Excerpt:

"Blood is supposedly a bond that surpasses any difficulties the world can throw! However, life can often show you that Blood isn't thicker than water and can be dirtier than mud. This is the reality for seventeen-year-old Anacia Baptiste. Born an identical twin to sister Nadia, Anacia's parents Cameal and Daniel Baptiste, expected their beautiful little baby to have a close relationship with the sister who shared the same face. However, they quickly realized that wasn't true as the girls grew and a volatile relationship brewed. Jealous and tired of her seemingly perfect twin, Nadia began to rebel and separate herself at an early age. As time went on, she attributed everything horrible in her life to her sister and began a quest to rid herself of the duplicate of herself. Rebellious, angry, and out of control, Nadia does everything she can to rid herself of Anacia and become the beloved twin. Betrayal, lies, heartache, jail time, and even murder ensues once Nadia feels nothing else will work. Finally, she inadvertently awakens a beast in her twin while trying to separate herself, and a dangerous game of back-and-forth begins. Soon that blood bond is tested as the girls lick for lick and leave a trail of hurt, pain, and death to all in their path. Come along on this turbulent thrill ride and discover if the girl's relationship can survive and if Blood Really is Thicker Than Water..."

Title: Bitter Bestfriends 2: The Sins Of My Twin...Blood Isn't Always Thicer Tan Water
Author: Niki Jilvontae
Publisher: N.J. March 19th
Series: Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Bitter Bestfriends 2" by Niki Jilvontae

My Sentiments:

'Bitter Bestfriend 2' was quite a read about two sisters who were twins [Anaci and Nadia], where one seemed to hate the other, which was mainly due to jealousy. This was a real read of some drama off the rail, definitely on a roller-coaster ride, leaving the reader shaking their head and saying wow! But, then, that ending was quite a turnaround, and I will stop here and say, pick this read up for an emotional drama story with a surprising ending.

Sins of Thy Mother 3 Kindle Edition by Niki Jilvontae

 Book Excerpt:

"The emotional horror ride for Lewis's children continues in this turbulent trilogy. After the unthinkable threatens to break the strong bond between the siblings, Tisha is left alone to face more pain and loss at the hands of her mother. Tired of being punished for her mother's sins, she transforms into someone almost as hateful. With Terricka right by her side as usual, the sisters devise a plan to rid the world of the evil they call mother. Come on this bloody, drama-filled rollercoaster ride and find out if the Lewis children can finally break the curse and be free of the Sins of Thy Mother!"

Title: Sins of Thy Mother 3
Author: Niki Jilvontae
Publisher: N.J.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Sins of Thy Mother 3" by Niki Jilvontae

My Sentiments:

'Sins of They Mother 3' was quite a series that will keep the reader turning the pages to see what this mother, Denise, will do next. With all that has gone on in this family, especially the treatment of Denise's children [Tisha, Terricka, and Shamel], well, what happened with her is not shocking. Yes, this was quite an emotional read that will leave one shaking their heads and saying wow, what a story.

Triggered: A Potomac Falls Novella (A Potomac Falls Holiday Shorts Book 3) Kindle Edition by K.L. Hall

Book Excerpt:

"Knight Alexander is still mine. He just doesn't know it yet.

He might have gotten away from The Falls and started over, but I haven't forgotten what he did… or forgiven him.
He thinks he can escape the truth but can't hide forever.

Once upon a time, he swore to protect my heart. Now, who's going to protect him from me?
If he thinks he's seen the worst of me, he's dead wrong.
After all, everyone knows break-ups don't often go smoothly."

Title: Triggered: A Potomac Falls Novella
Author: K.L. Hall
Publisher: K.L. Hall Productions
Series: A Potomac Falls Holiday Shorts Book 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Triggered: A Potomac Falls Novella" by K. L. Hall

My Sentiments:

'Triggered' was quite a read bringing in the mystery, thriller, and suspense of a good short read. What will happen when two brothers and two girlfriends come together where nothing is left from the story but a lot of 'craziness, infidelity, and murder?' By the end of the road, no one is innocent in this super messy plot twist. The ending will leave the reader seeing that karma will get you one way or the other in the end.

The Billionaire's Jewel Thief Kindle Edition by Amber Ghe

Book Excerpt:

"Capone was a notorious street-smart thief renowned for targeting some of the wealthiest people in society. But she had been ready to call it quits, even taking a celebratory vacation for her retirement. So despite building up quite a reputation for herself, nothing could have prepared her for the adventure she was about to embark on when she stole an ancient medallion from billionaire Roman Wade. Though they seemed worlds apart at first glance, fate soon revealed how their paths were meant to connect through something even more significant than any score ever made—love.  Until her sister came knocking on Capone's door with an offer too good to be true— a lick big enough to set them up for life— one, she couldn't turn down. Except for the 'mark' wasn't just any old person, it was Roman – a man she'd liked quite much. Still, the black diamond was too precious to pass up, even if its owner was someone special. What lay ahead may be much more complicated than the biggest heist imaginable…."

Title: The Billionaire's Jewel Thief
Author: Amber Ghe
Publisher: B. Love Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Billionaire's Jewel" by Amber Ghe

My Sentiments:

This story was quite a story that featured Capone and Carmen, who were thieves that stole from 'wealth people in society.' As Capone was thinking of stopping this career [ha ha], her sister Carmen came up with another idea that seemed to pull Capone back into this thievery. However, an ancient medallion and a black diamond seemed to question who owned this item. It looks like maybe two families were involved with this jewelry. Who were the original owners, and how did Roman Wade's family get it in the first place? This author gives the reader quite a story as twists and turns will be presented in this story on who owned these items in the first place. To find out what is going on in "The Billionaire's Jewel Thief," pick up this good read to see how it all comes out.

Maestro (The Enigma Series Book 2) Kindle Edition by Aja

 Book Excerpt:

"He was his daddy's son.

Eli "Maestro" Lewis has prepared himself to run the kingdom of Smoke Enterprises. The plan was to allow his father time to rest and live out his golden years with his new love, but someone wanted his father back in the game, and his father, Smoke, was all too happy to show Pittsburgh how he earned his name. They said where there's Smoke, there's fire, and now the city was up in flames. Eli had significant problems with that. For one, his pops shouldn't have been running around the city like he was Shaft, risking his life and all he worked hard for, and two, he was more than capable of handling all this trouble on his own. If only his pops would let him.

Being the prince wasn't always easy, and neither was finding love during a war. But he'd deal with all that. Like he always did. That's how he earned his name."

Maestro is book 2 in The Enigma Series. Visit www.ajathewriter.com for more information.

Title: Maestro
Author: Aja
Publisher: She Loves Words Publishing LLC
Series: The Enigma Series: Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Maestro: by Aja

My Assessment:

'Maestro' was indeed intriguing after reading the first Enigma series book about 'Smoke.' Indeed we find Maestro was every bit his father's son, especially in helping his father [Smoke] find out who killed his best friend, Jimmy. I enjoyed seeing how much Maestro [Eli] cared about his father and sister Sarai [Slick]. In addition, I wanted to know how Eli was connecting to a new person...he had recently met ... Mena. From the read, we find Maestro is taking charge of finding out who had killed a family friend, and also, what was it about Mena that Eli needed in his life? This will be quite a journey with all the twists and turns that will keep one turning the pages till the end. To see how Maestro falls in love, the reader will have to pick up this good read to see how it all happens, and in the end, will he be able to get things done that need to be taken care of?

A Long Way from Home (Tortured Souls Book 1) Kindle Edition by Niki Jilvontae

 Book Excerpt:

"Homeless and runaway teens are becoming a huge part of the underground population in the U.S. According to research, "The National Runaway Switchboard estimates that on any given night there are approximately 1.3 million homeless youths living on the streets, in abandoned buildings, with friends or with strangers." (Homeless and Runaway Youth, 2013, NCSL) Some of these children run away from violent and unstable home environments thinking that things will be better when they are on their own. Many of these children and teens leave home and find themselves in situations far more dangerous than their home life. In fact, some of them never make it home again or must endure unimaginable pain at the hands of predators.

This is the reality for Jessica, Quintika, Justin, and Tommy. Each of them runs away from home to be successful on their own. They each have big dreams and high hopes that their lives will improve when they escape their parents' rules. However, they quickly discover that the grass is rarely greener on the other side as they meet with Abaddon, The Devil. Now they must find the strength to defeat the devil, escape hell, and heal their Tortured Souls….. A Long Way from HOME!!!"

Title: A Long Way From Home
Author: Niki Jilvontae
Publisher: N. J.
Series: Tortured Souls Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"A Long Way From Home" by Niki Jilvontae

My Assessment:

'A Long Way From Home' was quite a read of what happened when two friends decided to run away from home only to get caught up in a horrible situation...human sex trafficking. This story was one read that will leave the reader emotional from all that is going on in the read. Will this group be able to escape? Here is where I say you will have to pick up this read to see how well this author brings it out to the readers.

One will be left giving the reader something to ponder over long after the read and wanting to pick up book 2 to see what will happen next for Jessica and Abaddon.

Voodoo: (A Sleepy Carter Mystery - Book 6) (Sleepy Carter Mysteries) Kindle Edition by Brian W. Smith

 Book Excerpt:

"Is Voodoo real? Detective Lizzy Silverman is about to find herself face-to-face with that question.

When Corey Simon, a delivery truck driver, is found dead with his throat slit near the tomb of Marie Laveau, the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans, police are shocked by the gruesome crime scene. Guinevere Laveau, a woman who claims to be the descendant of Marie Laveau, confesses to placing a voodoo spell on the victim, a period that assured his death. With no other suspects, Detective Lizzy Silverman feels compelled to arrest Laveau, but that would also mean Lizzy would have to believe that Voodoo is real...which she doesn't. However, to dismiss Guinevere's confession could mean letting the killer go free.

Feeling completely befuddled, Lizzy turns to her mentor and secret weapon, Donald "Sleepy" Carter, for assistance. Of course, Sleepy helps his mentee, but not before he takes her on a journey into the mystical world of Voodoo and forces Lizzy to consider the possibility that maybe...just maybe...Guinevere Laveau is telling the truth.

Best-selling Author, Brian W. Smith, returns with another "Sleepy Carter" mystery that will baffle you. And at the same time, give you a history lesson on one of the Big Easy's most taboo topics... Voodoo."

Title: Voodoo
Author: Brian W. Smith
Publisher: B.W.S.
Series: Book 6 Sleepy Carter Mysteries
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Voodoo" by Brian W. Smith

My Assessment:

Another good series by this author,' Voodoo,' is where we find Donald 'Sleepy' Carter helping Elizabeth ...Lizzy investigates a compelling case. The story was a mind-blowing case where one will learn a lot about Voodooism. Even though I enjoyed the story...I am still waiting for when the story comes out about 'Sleepy Carter.'

Deviant Royal: An Age Gap, Royal Romance : Duke of Tudor Kindle Edition by Amarie Avant

 Book Excerpt:

"Victor Tudor, a man wrapped in mystery and temptation, gets everything he desires.

And for the moment, he craves… me.

I fought. It was a losing battle.

I ran. His relentlessness ensnared me.

I'm a token. A trinket. A toy for Victor's amusement.

He's seductive. A dangerous deviant.

Although I can't stop the madness, staying is lethal.

**

Luxury Whitson, a young beauty with a heart of gold, never catches a break.

And for a brief time, she will be mine to possess.

She's cheeky. I'll train her mouth.

She's defiant. That kink will be straightened.

I'll keep my identity and my deadly delights away from her.

I'll protect Luxury. Spare her father's life. And once my mission is complete, return the naïve girl's heart, as ecstasy cannot last always."

Title: Deviant Royal: An Age Gap, Royal Romance
Author: Amarie Avant
Publisher: A. A.
Series: Duke of Tudor
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Deviant Royal: An Age Gap" by Amarie Avant

My Assessment:

This author has always given the readers another fantastic good read featuring Victor and Luxury. Luxury was at times hard to take, but then there was Victor, who wasn't able to say it...in love in the end with Luxury. So be ready for a little bit of it all emotional, dramatic, mystery, suspense, thriller, and romance that will keep you turning the pages to see what is coming next for these two. One will be only left waiting to read the next series in the Duke of Tudor.

The Wreck Kindle Edition by Marie Force

 Book Excerpt:

"Wrenched apart by tragedy, they’re brought back together by love.

Carly Holbrook and Brian Westbury are weeks away from their high school graduation. The young couple plans to marry before they head to college, and their future seems bright with promise. But, everything changes one spring night when their six closest friends, including Brian’s younger brother, are killed in a fiery car accident that Carly and Brian witness. The trauma leaves Carly unable to speak, and Brian is forced to make unimaginable decisions about a future that once seemed so certain. With Carly incapable of going forward with their plans, Brian leaves home and Carly for good. Fifteen years later, disturbing new clues indicate the accident that wrecked so many lives wasn’t an accident at all, bringing Brian home to face a past—and love—he’s never forgotten."

Title: The Wreck
Author: Marie Force
Publisher: HTJB, Inc.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Wreck" by Marie Force

My Assessment:

'The Wreck' will give one a good read... about romance, mystery-thriller, and suspenseful novel that will keep you turning the pages till the end. The story was mainly about Brian and Carly, with some good secondary characters well-written into the story.

Be prepared for a read about 'loss, survival, and a love that will survive it all to be together. I don't want to share too much other than to say this novel is one to pick up and read and see for yourself how well this author presents it to the reader. It was an outstanding read.

Meet NORMAN (The Lewis Series Book 3) Kindle Edition by Niki Jilvontae

 Book Excerpt:

"We began a turbulent, gory, heart-wrenching journey with The Lewis Family as they discovered old habits die hard. That discovery led to the Sins of a Misfit bringing up old demons. Now it’s time to Meet NORMAN in this psychological thriller that will follow two generations of Misfits as they hunt the demon from their past, Abaddon. With new Misfits in play like Norman’s son Dahmer, the Gen Z killers have a lot to prove, and their insatiable appetites for blood, fear, revenge & even flesh must now be fulfilled. Tune in to see how bright their little lights will shine in this gruesome trilogy if you dare…"

Title: Meet Norman
Author: Niki Jilvontae
Publisher: N.J.
Series: The Lewis Series Book 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Meet Norman" by Niki Jilvontae

My Assessment:

All that is left to say about 'Meet Norman' was wow...what a psychological thriller read. Norman and his son Dahmer... were kin to the Lewis family, in their world, with talents off the chart, as they are 'hunt the demons from their past, Abaddon, prove their insatiable appetites for blood, fear, revenge, and even flesh.' Will these two fit into this generation of Misfits? Will they accomplish their journey of finding Star Lewis? Will their 'bright little lights shine in this gruesome trilogy? To get it all from this story, you will have to pick up this read and also the other two series to fully understand the brilliant way this author brings it all out to the reader. And then we are left with another series, book 4, where we find out their greatest power is their ability was 'To Be Silent!'