The Sweetheart Deal by Miranda Liasson

Book Excerpt:

"From the bestselling author of the Angel Falls series, two enemies say "I do" in the first irresistible book about Blossom Glen.

Pastry chef Tessa Montgomery knows what everyone in the tiny town of Blossom Glen says about her. Spinster. Ice Queen. Such a shame. It's enough to make a woman bake her troubles away, dreaming of Parisian delicacies while she makes bread at her mother's struggling boulangerie. That is until Tessa's mortal enemy—deliciously handsome (if arrogant) chef Leo Castorini, who owns the restaurant next door—proposes a business plan…to get married.

Leo knows that the Castorinis and the Montgomerys hate each other, but marriage might just force these stubborn families to work together and blend their businesses for success. So the deal is simple: Tessa and Leo marry, live together for six months, and go their separate ways. Easy peasy.

It's a sweetheart deal where everyone gets what they want—until feelings between the faux newlyweds start seriously complicating the mix. Have they discovered the perfect recipe for success…or is a disaster on the way?"

Title: The Sweetheart Deal
Author: Miranda Liasson
Publisher: Entangled Publishing LLC
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"The Sweetheart Deal" by Miranda Liasson

My Opinion:

'The Sweetheart Deal' seemed to be somewhat updated from the Romeo and Juliet story, a delightful novel set in a small town. To see these two families [the Mongomery's and the Castorini Clan] who have been feuding for generations are now coming together. However, will this six-month fake marriage work for Tessa and Leo? What will happen as the love bug sneaks itself into their plans? What had happened early in their lives as these two, Tessa and Leo, were high school rivals?

The characters were well-developed for the most part; however, some of the secondary characters [Tessa's sisters] got on my nerves at times.
For most of the story was a sweet and intriguing fun read, with some 'mystery, drama, and romance' that will keep your attention as you are kept turning the pages. However, to see how this relationship will grow and see if these family members will finally forget about this long-held feud and become friends, you will have to pick up "The Sweetheart Deal" and see how well this author brings it all together to the reader.

In the end, the reader will get a heartwarming story that I would recommend.

Thanks to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

The Last House on the Street A Novel by Diane Chamberlain

 Book Excerpt:

"A community's past sins rise to the surface in New York Times bestselling author Diane Chamberlain's The Last House on the Street when two women, a generation apart, find themselves bound by tragedy and an unsolved, decades-old mystery.

1965

Growing up in the well-to-do town of Round Hill, North Carolina, Ellie Hockley was raised to be a specific type of proper Southern lady. Enrolled in college and all but engaged to a bank manager, Ellie isn't as committed to her expected future as her family believes. Instead, she's chosen to spend her summer break as a volunteer helping to register black voters. But as Ellie follows her ideals fighting for the civil rights of the marginalized, her scandalized parents scorn her efforts, and her neighbors reveal their prejudices. And when she loses her heart to a fellow volunteer, Ellie discovers the frightening true nature of the people living in Round Hill.

2010

Architect Kayla Carter and her husband designed a beautiful house for themselves in Round Hill's new development, Shadow Ridge Estates. It was supposed to be a home where they could raise their three-year-old daughter and grow old together. Instead, it's the place where Kayla's husband died in an accident—a fact known to a mysterious woman who warns Kayla against moving in. In addition, the woods and lake behind the property are reputed to be haunted, and the new home has been targeted by vandals leaving threatening notes. And Kayla's neighbor Ellie Hockley is harboring long-buried secrets about the land's dark history where her house was built.

Two women. Two stories. Both on a collision course with the truth--no matter what that truth may bring to light--in Diane Chamberlain's riveting, powerful novel about the search for justice."

Title: The Last House on the Street
Author: Diane Chamberlain
Publisher: St Martin's Press
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Last House on the Street" by Diane Chamberlain

My Opinion:

'The Last House on the Street' was quite a historical fiction. Mystery, suspenseful read with grief, and romance will draw one into Kayla Carter and Eleanor [Ellie] Hockley's story. Yes, this was about 'family, love, racism, and injustice.' We find that this was from Round Hill, North Carolina, in a neighborhood called Shadow Ridge Estates... of two timelines, 1965 and 2010. What was it about these two timelines that will direct how these characters are linked? Be ready for many surprises, along with twists and turns that will keep the reader turning the pages. For example, what will happen as Kayla finds out about her town and family. "What had happened on this land in 1965 that Kayla's father was trying to warn her about moving to this area that Kayla's husband had built for her?"

And with Ellie living next door, how will these two connect? What did Ellie working with SCOPE do with it, and what happened to her family? One thing that is for sure this author did her research to give the reader quite a story. I'm not sure whom I felt sorrier for...With the subject being so involved with intense racism, Kayla or Ellie, the root of it all is emotional and heartbreaking. To get all of the answers to these questions and more, you must pick up "The Last House on the Street' to see how well this author brings us this read. It may take a while, but these two-time timelines do come together, giving the reader one heck of a story by the end.

This story wasn't an easy read, definitely will stay with me, but it was a story worth telling, and using these dual timelines and multi-generations was well-done.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC and my leaving my honest opinion.

Wait For Tonight (A Holiday Snack 2) Kindle Edition by Amber Ghe

 Book Excerpt:

"Wait For Tonight is a Holiday Romance, HEA.

Moving into the new year, Chelle Howard is offered a long-term position in Mazatlan, Mexico, to assist with the opening of Design-Build Houzz. She's been on a long road to recovery and believes this position will provide her with a much-needed solace to face her past transgressions.
However, when she realizes she's not going to be alone, Chelle is perturbed but decides to make the best with her unexpected guest—Zentavio Basir.
Knowing Zentavio is a dishonest and resentful man from uncovered truths, trusting him with her heart is her biggest worry to date.
If he could change one thing, it would be writing down his secret…
Zentavio Basir jumps at the opportunity of a lifetime to work abroad and spend time with a woman that intrigues him—Chelle Howard.
Unfortunately for Zentavio, he didn't act fast enough with the pure intention of burying his secret. And after Chelle discovers what he wanted to keep hidden, Zentavio finds himself troubled and overwhelmed but desperate to show Chelle that he is worth redemption."

***Chelle and Zen are spinoff characters from the Mergers & Acquisitions Series. It can be read as a standalone HEA.***

Title: Wait For Tonight
Author: Amber Ghe
Publisher: Hustle & Write Publishing
Series: A Holiday Snack 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"Wait For Tonight" by Amber Ghe

My Assessment:

Chelle Howard had a lot going on in her life as 'she's been on a long road to recovery.' But it seems like things are looking up for her as she is 'offered a long-term position in Mazatlan, Mexico, to assist with the opening of Design-Build Houzz.' Everything seems great until Chelle finds out who will be accompanying her on the trip...Zentavio Basir.

What had happened in Basir's life that he kept to himself, and what will happen when Chelle finds out about his secret as she goes snooping around?

How will this work out for them [Chelle and Basir] when everything comes out? Will they be able to deal with it? Also, what all had gone on in Chelle's life that she had overcome? So this is where I say you must pick up this story, and possibly since these characters are from the spinoff from the Merger & Acquisitions Series, maybe take a look at those series to help fully understand this story entirely.

Sloppy by Jasmine Farrell

 Book Excerpt:

"Classic preacher's kid, Roxanne felt like the oddball in her environment.

By age 22, she found herself compromising and settling in various avenues of her life- including love.

Will Roxanne be brave enough to end her relationship with a man who ails her? Will she take the path towards her purpose no matter how sloppy it looks? Or will she allow the world and her family to dictate right and wrong?"

Please note:  This is a galley copy with watermarks.

Title:  Sloppy

Author:  Jasmine Farrell

Publisher:  Independently Published  Just Breathe Jasmine LLC

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Sloppy" by Jasmine Farrell

My Opinion:

The title kept me intrigued as I read through this thought-provoking story that dealt with the main characters...Roxanne, her mother, and Johnson. It seemed like Roxanne was very much into homosexual relationships, which was unacceptable to her mother, especially with her being a minister. Then Roxey starts dating Johnson, and it seems like he knew of her previous relationships and still supposedly loved and wanted to marry her, but will that happen? Johnson was quite a character that was only for what he wanted, and that was total control. What will happen when he finally gives her a ring?

As time went on, Roxanne decided not to marry Johnson, which was a good thing; however, she was also wishy-washy, which made this story enjoyable to see if she would finally do what Roxanne did want. Then Johnson was still coming around and trying to get what he wanted, which was Roxy's control. Will that happen? 

What will happen when Roxanne has a new love in her life? Will, her mother, accepts this as Roxanne chooses a new love. To get the answers to these questions and more, you will have to pick up 'Sloppy' and see how this author brings it all out to the reader.  

By the way, I did see the reason for the title because a lot of what happened in this story was 'Sloppy' [with mother & daughter, [Roxanne & Johnson] and [Roxanne and a few ex-friends] even though it was a good and decent read.    

A Time for Justice: A Legal Thriller (Zoe Caine Legal Thriller Series Book 1) Kindle Edition by Freya Atwood

 

Book Excerpt:

"A terrible crime was committed in a facility for troubled youth. When a lawyer decides to unveil it twenty years later, she must fight against her family and city to find the truth…

As a stubborn and quick-witted lawyer, Zoe Caine has been trying to catch her big case for far too long. And the chance presents itself, the moment a traumatized woman begs her to uncover a horrifying injustice committed by the town's beloved people. An unspoken crime Zoe knows firsthand.

Contemplating whether she should risk her career, Zoe soon learns that nothing remains secret. So when the woman is found injured and near-dead, she decides to investigate. Only to find a truth that should have remained hidden away. They were raised in the same abusive facility. Twenty years ago.

The case has turned personal, and Zoe knows she only has one chance to make this right. And when people threaten her life, the court is her only hope. Until the corruption that follows…

A Time for Justice is Freya's 1st novel in the Zoe Caine series of blood-pumping legal thrillers. If you are an avid fan of strong female leads, action-packed courtroom drama, riveting characters, and mind-blowing murder mystery, then you'll love Freya's intriguing story."

Buy "A Time for Justice" today to discover Freya's new intriguing crime mystery!

Title: A Time For Justice
Author: Freya Atwood
Publisher: F.A.
Series: Zoe Cain Legal Thriller Series Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"A Time For Justice" by Freya Atwood

My Assessment:
'A Time for Justice' was another excellent read that this author presents. We find that lawyer Zoe Caine got a visit from Rosamund Verity wanted Zoe to take her case against Solemn Acres for abuse, a re-hab facility for the mentally ill. The strange thing about this was that Zoe had once been in this facility, under another name, where she didn't remember much from her time there and was left with some horrible dreams from the incident. When Rosamund is attacked and ends up in a coma, Zoe decides to look into the case because too much was going on...like a fire from the Solemn Acres facility, Rosamund in a coma, and her job asking her to stop investigating over this incident. Along with all of that, Zoe's brother David was having a few problems of his own, and naturally, Zoe was there to help if she could. A long history goes with this Zoe's family, starting with their mom's death, and the father was nothing but an alcoholic that abused his children. This is why Zoe was in [Midhard Institute] now called Solemn Acres facility...her father had her placed there for no definite reason other than he was a horrible abusive person, especially toward Zoe.

As the story moves on, we find Zoe and her assistant Hadijah working hard on the Solemn Acres facility case. Will Zoe be able to find the evidence she 'needs to prove that the patient abuse did happen and be able to bring this former doctor and his staff to justice?' Again, I will say that the judge, lawyers, and courtroom drama will keep your attention following this story. Be ready for lots of entwinement that will go on in this suspenseful legal thriller courtroom drama.

Well, you will have to pick up "A Time For Justice" to see how this author brings it all out to the reader especially providing us with an extended epilogue that lets the reader understand a little more of what all Zoe had gone through with her father and her finally taking a stand to do something that would make her life somewhat better.

Boss Women: Seven African-American Women Who Built Their Businesses From the Ground Up by Gwen Richardson Jan10

Book Excerpt:

"Boss Women features seven African-American women who started their businesses by
themselves or as co-founders with family members. Although some of these women may
not have high public profiles, they represent a variety of industries, and all of their
businesses are successful. Some enterprises are relatively new; others have been
established for decades.

The businesswomen profiled in this book are Janice M. Adams (JMA Solutions),
Valerie Daniels-Carter (V&J Holding Companies), Bea Dixon (Honey Pot), Janice
Bryant Howroyd (The ACT One Group), Garnetta Sanders (Neta Scientific), Janell
Stephens (Camille Rose Naturals), and J. C. Sykes (90 Degree Construction).

Boss Women uses poetic phrasing, making it easier for children to read and understand.
While reading each poetic profile, children will see themselves in these
women's successes and dream big dreams for the future. The book also is a motivational
tool for adults who are seeking encouragement on their entrepreneurial journeys."

Title: Boss Women
Author: Gwen Richardson
Publisher: Cushcity Communications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Boss Women:" Seven African Women Who Built Their Business From the Ground Up" by Gwen Richardson

My Opinion:

How enjoyable 'Boss Women' was that an enjoyable and informational read for all to read.
These African American women were...Janice Adams of JMA Solutions, Valerie Daniels-Carter of V & J Holdings, Bea Dixon of Honey Pot...I have tried these products and love them, Janice Bryant Howroyd of ActOne Group, Garnetta Sanders of Neta Scientific, Janelle Stephens of Camille Rose Naturals, and J C Sykes of 90 Degree Construction.

I love this short story of 'Two Janices, Jc, Garnetta, Bea, plus Valerie and Janell...with humble beginnings...how they've risen to new heights determined to excel.'

'Believe in yourself is what they all say. Your grit, guts, and courage will ultimately pave the way for the path you'll leave for others to follow. Your destiny will manifest a brighter tomorrow.'

The author did an excellent job of giving the reader information on these 'Boss Women who are Tomorrow's Boss Women of the future generation.' Would I recommend 'Boss Women?' YES, especially to the younger children.

Dirty Takedown : AmBw Standalone Enemies-to-Lovers Romance Kindle Edition By: Amarie Avant

Book Excerpt:

"Amarie Avant presents a steamy, witty romance between a UFC fighter and a kick-ass black heroine!

RENEE RILEY

I'm at the pinnacle of my career, and I don't have time for games.

Not even training matches between the MMA fighters at my family's famous gym.

But when my brother's enemy wipes the floor with him, I want no parts of it.

It's just a game.

Until the muscular god, with intense dark eyes, makes me his enemy too.

I'm ashamed to admit, it's gotten dirty between Jhang and me.

JHANG LI

I'm the king of the octagon and lack a worthy adversary.

I've got a vice-grip on my championship belt.

But when Renee Riley returns to town, I devise a plan to make her family pay for their sins.

The tiny, feisty beauty will be the easiest takedown ever.

I'll worship my enemy's sister for now.

Renee can hate me tomorrow."

Title: Dirty Takedown

Author: Amarie Avant

Publisher: A. A.     

Reviewed By: Arlena Dean

Rating: Five  

Review:

"Dirty Takedown: AmBw Standalone Enemies-to-Lovers Romance" By: Amarie Avant

My Assessment:

The title says it all in how these two Jhang and Renee got together, with the MMA fighter meeting the traveling nurse. From a one-night encounter that was supposed to be just one night, but fate had a way of turning things around for them. This situation was definitely out of the norm for Renee, and it turned out revenge on Jhang's part. Why did Jhang want revenge on this family? You will have to pick up this good read to find out.

  

The author did an excellent job of bringing out Renee's sickle cell situation. Unfortunately, the story ended rather quickly, so I am sure there will be more about this family series, especially Malcolm and maybe even Nicolette. Thank goodness Renee had support from her mom that added calmness to this situation.  

All in all, this was an excellent AMBW read.