Tag Archives: Carmen

Enchanted Warrior by Sharon Ashwood – a Review

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Enchanted Warrior by Sharon Ashwood – a Review

 

Enchanted WarriorAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
An ancient evil rises. An ancient warrior awakens.

In an age clouded by legend, Gawain was one of King Arthur’s greatest knights. When he awakens centuries after the fall of Camelot, he faces his most daunting quest yet—the search for his missing companions. His hope is that Tamsin Greene, the alluring historian at Medievaland Theme Park, can help him. Then he senses the magic within her… Gawain will now have to trust a witch—and his own heart—to rouse the knights of the Round Table and save humanity from a faery onslaught.

 

Review:

King Arthur and his knights are endlessly adaptable. It’s what Sharon Ashwood says, believes, and translates beautifully in her new novel, Enchanted Warrior. With my limited knowledge on the legendary subject, I envisioned Mushu from Disney’s Mulan awakening the guardians. Shame on me. Gawain is no mere protector. He’s sworn his fealty to King Arthur and exhibits an unparalleled devotion. That is, until Tamsin Greene enchants our warrior.

“Mordred is using stealth, not armies, and his first priority is finding the tombs to stop the Round Table from rising. You need to find your friends and wake them at once.”

A new war with recurring enemies looms and Gawain is set to assemble the Knights of the Round Table as prophesied. The fact that it’s modern-day Medievaland in Washington State is sure to pose problems for an unprepared (let alone missing!) group. Wait. This is Gawain we’re talking about! The dicier the situation, the more from which to adapt and triumph. Aligning himself with faeries, foes-turned-friends, is a question for later, but principal on Gawain’s list is to recruit the assistance of the bewitching (heavy on the base word) historian, Tamsin. Witches aren’t to be trusted and Gawain learned that the hard way.

Though his tactics were brutish and domineering, Tamsin would be lying if she said her interest wasn’t piqued by Gawain’s otherworldliness. Tamsin is trying to gain respect as a loremaster within her coven, and as surreal as the situation presents itself, Gawain’s oath took on special significance to her core beliefs. Tamsin sensed Gawain was dangerous, but since she didn’t count herself adversary (something she repeatedly bashes into his head!) the real threat lay in losing her heart to him.

When Tamsin’s collaboration comes attached with a quid pro quo, will Gawain honor his bargain or shrug off his chivalry? The cast of characters was large, but easy to follow. The fall of Camelot wreaked havoc on all the factions and, unsurprisingly, no one is particularly trustworthy. “Pain and privation eventually take their toll. Their silence breaks.” Enemies make for interesting bedfellows, but their plights are written so convincingly, so passionately, you champion them all!

There’s so much to love in Enchanted Warrior. I found myself swept up in the cloud of magic. Revelations created bonds and illuminated true strengths. Ms. Ashwood gave proper respect to the craft and her spells invoked wonderful imagery as they came to fruition. An understanding, an embracing of power, intensified a love intrinsic to Gawain and Tamsin. The kind of love that transcends time.

What a fabulous read! While I may have stumbled on facts and had to research its history, Sharon Ashwood never faltered in her storytelling; I was captivated and bewitched! 😉
Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Author

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Notorious by Carey Baldwin – a Review

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Notorious by Carey Baldwin – a Review

 

NotoriousAmazon / Barnes & Noble/ Kobo / BAM

Description:
The woman everyone loves to hate is dead.

Dallas socialite Cynthia Langhorne is infamous for her beauty, her philanthropy, and her home wrecking–until she’s found shot through the heart and posed nude at a fundraising ball. The case is high profile, and there’s a bigger problem: Cindy is the wife of a decorated FBI special agent–the prime suspect in her murder.

When the Bureau sends FBI profiler Atticus Spenser and forensic psychiatrist Dr. Caitlin Cassidy to Texas on behalf of Dutch Langhorne, the special agent-turned-suspect, they’re suspicious of the very man whose interests they’re supposed to protect. But with a psycho hitman on their heels and a trail of evidence leading up the food chain, it quickly becomes clear this is no ordinary case. The truth points to someone–or something–larger than Spenser and Cassidy ever thought possible. Solving this case is no longer a matter of clearing Dutch’s name–it’s a matter of national security.

 

Review:

You’d think a third book of a series might show signs of slowing down? Carey Baldwin has bigger plans for Caity and Spense in Notorious, and we are grateful for it! When we last encountered our H/H, they were set to explore their personal relationship in Tahiti (the stars were finally aligning). Lamentably, Special Agent Atticus Spenser and forensic psychiatrist, Dr. Caitlin Cassidy were summoned to Texas by a fellow “feebie” (FBI), Agent Dutch Langhorne.   First introduced in Fallen, as part of the Fallen Angel Killer case, Dutch is too stoic a man to request assistance regarding the murder of his wife. When things are just too close, when the case forces Dutch to think outside the box, Dutch astonishingly reaches out to Spense and Caity, and loyalty comes first — no hesitation. Fret not, the chemistry and compatibility are safe in Carey Baldwin’s capable hands (love finds a way). Notorious is a psychological thriller with engaging subplots, baffling psychosis (replete with gruesome details), and swoons, unforgettable swoons, which make Caity and Spense an exciting, complex couple.

“But in truth, the crushing weight of her charmed life made each demure step as torturous as a death march.”

You know the saying about not knowing someone unless you’ve walked in their shoes? Meet Cindy, the wife of Dutch, living a life of excess…to the untrained eye. Someone murdered Cindy and there are a bevy of suspects, including Dutch himself. Carey Baldwin takes us through the memories (and regret) of an unknowing husband. Dutch was aware of Cindy’s infidelity, but the extent is a hard pill to swallow. Dutch sucks up his pride, painfully aware that his indifference contributed to Cindy’s demise, and remains fiercely protective; at the ready to find her killer. Spense and Caity try their best to remain detached as they navigate through the layers of proof and compromise in an effort to exonerate Dutch (diaries, the perfect confidante). Interesting wrench in the collaboration process is that Spense and Dutch don’t really care for each other. Ms. Baldwin volleys witty banter and outright jabs between the alpha men to elicit hearty laughs and big smiles. Caity’s pulling double duty keeping her keen eye on their tension and recognizing their similarities (they’re too arrogant to see it, lol).

While Caity, Spense and Dutch are on the brink of discovery, the real killer is mirroring their steps, dangerously close, and his intrigue is nefarious in nature; he intends to beat them to, and with, the proverbial punch.

They were no longer just looking for a fugitive. They were now on the run from a cold-blooded killer.

Profiling is where Caity and Spense meet, and excel, and Carey Baldwin displays her badassness (even when our beloved leads have become the prey). From the exciting profiling to the intriguing subplots, Ms. Baldwin writes engaging characters that matter to us. When Spenser handed off his Rubik’s Cube to the kid, there was an instant reaction; it was an undeniably sweet gesture, but where’s the nearest Target — Spenser functions better with it! When lines blur for Caity, to tell Spenser or not to tell Spenser, we cringe and recognize that it is delicate ground she walks; indecision so out of character, we fear for what can be jeopardized. These connections are special because we have come to love our unique heroes.       

Spense and Caity continue to grow and inspire; a dynamic duo who doesn’t feel intimidated by the other’s prowess. Their steadfast professional camaraderie enhances their evolving personal relationship. It’s what my 13 year old daughter refers to as “goals”.

For as much notoriety as the killer earned, he left one too many job jobs undone. Shotty work makes you a target. I had a suspicion early on as to who the killer was, but the story unfolded, details cleverly doled out, purposeful and designed, to grip you until the actual revelation. Loved it! I have enjoyed every installment, every development of this series.

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Author

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No Exit by Lena Diaz – a Review

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No Exit by Lena Diaz – a Review

 

No ExitAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
As an agent of the Equalizers, Jace Atwell will risk everything to destroy EXIT Inc., the corrupt antiterrorist group, before more innocent lives are lost. The only way to infiltrate EXIT is by getting close to the CEO’s beautiful daughter, but when they get a little too close, Jace finds himself falling for the woman he is duty-bound to deceive.

Whatever clandestine activities EXIT is involved in, Melissa Cardenas refuses to believe that her father is responsible and is determined to prove it. So when sexy, smooth-talking Jace comes clean about his motives, Melissa drops a bombshell of her own: she’s been investigating too—and she wants to help him find the truth.

The chemistry between Melissa and Jace is undeniable, but their opposing views of justice make teamwork tricky. With their lives on the line—and the truth something neither of them expected—the only way to survive will be to trust their hearts and each other . . . if they can.

 

Review:

When we last explored the world of Lena Diaz (EXIT Strategy review available here), it became crystal clear that the once-respected organization was anything but savory, and on the verge of being dismantled. Cyprian, the head of the snake, is under intense scrutiny and only an “inside job” can eliminate his nefarious, misconstrued plotting to salvage the company. Easy enough. Jace Atwell will get close to Melissa, Cyprian’s daughter, professionally speaking, and secure irrefutable proof to oust the bad guy permanently. When Jace and Melissa connect, however, lines blur and easy only applies to yesterday (a motto he lives by as a former Navy SEAL). Hot, I know! No Exit was a wonderful extension of a fabulous storyline with new characters (and previous studs), engaging writing and plots to enhance the overall thrilling effect. As customary, Ms. Diaz grips you in varying degrees, from swoons to sweaty upper lips! 🙂

As nonchalant as Jace purports to handle his new job as Melissa’s bodyguard, he quickly ascertained cross purposes at work; mysterious government watchdogs and rogue missions, to name a few. A worry those, but none more than underestimating Melissa (more like sure to blindside him if he doesn’t give Melissa the respect her business acumen has earned her). When Jace’s efforts are compromised (Melissa’s no wallflower), does he walk away, leaving Melissa to root out real evil or stay to collaborate and bring forth real justice?

When Lena Diaz writes a book, the action and romance don’t compete for attention. She weaves them in and sweeps you up, even when you didn’t think it would fit. I sure enjoy that feeling! Jace was written so confidently (no easy task when you compare those previously mentioned studs), I looked forward to harrowing close-calls; to see how they’d hit the ground running when up against the wall. Melissa, in her own right, has a spine of steel and it is called upon more often than not. Dreading the truth will only keep her head buried and this woman needs to live! Romance develops as ideas align. Ms. Diaz has you clutching at your heart in ecstasy and fear.

If Jace and the team succeed, will any hope of keeping Melissa’s heart end in failure?

“…Losing you, if I lost you, that would be the worst.”

     It dawned on him that it wasn’t just the rain running down her face. It was tears.

“Have I?” she whispered. “Have I lost you?”

As if I’d tell?! Ugh, so, so, good! No Exit is a line to cross…to become free. Layers of tangled secrets, lies exposed, truths faced, murder, and then some…It’s all in here!

 

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Author

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Malibu Secrets by MK Meredith -a Review

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Malibu Secrets by MK Meredith -a Review

 

Malibu Secrets

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
Every girl has a secret (or two)…

On the verge of losing the Malibu home she inherited from her great-aunt, Addi Dekker is completely failing to prove to her family she can make it as a writer. Not exactly how a girl proves her independence. If she doesn’t want to give up her dream and go back to the soul-sucking job she just left, Addi has to swallow her dislike of Hollywood and rent the house out to the sexy-as-hell film producer.

And maybe (shhhh!) save money by secretly living there, too.

Roque Gallagher is pouring his heart and savings into his first independent film to make the industry acknowledge him for his talent and not just his family name. Addi’s home is perfect for the shoot, but she’s far too tempting. He’s never been able to handle work and a relationship, and this is the film of a lifetime. Between a shrinking budget and his director quitting, the last thing he needs is a sexy-as-sin tease like Addi. And he has a feeling there’s something she’s hiding…

 

Review:

When wild child Addi lives up (down) to her family’s prediction, her Malibu bungalow inheritance in foreclosure, time is of the essence and Addi is desperate. When cornered, however, Addi is nothing if not resourceful. As much as it pains her, Roque, stellar Hollywood producer, is the answer to her prayers…if not her dreams. But that comes later, much later, since neither person is ready, or willing, to address the attraction. Welcome to book 2 of the Malibu Sights series, Malibu Secrets, by MK Meredith, where real Hollywood dreams have nothing to do with box office numbers.

The time had come for her to grow up and figure out a way to gather up the pieces of her latest disaster without her entire family-and their friends-finding out.

Addi isn’t like her older sister, Sam (book 1, Malibu Betrayals review available here ) , and far from dedicated, workaholic older brother-attorney, Luca. She’s impulsive and “fanciful” and happy being such. That is, until things spiraled out of control and she’s $18,000 in the hole, on the brink of losing her home.

The need was immediate upon seeing the tears in her eyes, and he’d genuinely thought she’d jump at the chance to rent to him, especially considering her predicament. She’d only have a limited time to save her home. The information on her public records had been his Hail Mary-for him and her, really. But she’d thrown him out.

Why, then, would she decline Roque’s offer? The gorgeous uber producer wants to film his movie at her home – that obviously comes with payment to vacate and since it’s Hollywood, you can imagine the bank she could make! That was the first mistake: Assume, and you make an “ass” out of you and me. I fit that into a review – always wanted to do that! 😉

What I really enjoyed through paced storytelling were the similarities in background. Though fleshed out differently, life is propelled by adult choices, the feeling of inadequacy, of hovering shadows, were one and the same for Roque and Addi. They both had drive and something to prove to their families. This obstinate pair, however, looked everywhere but within, to find that approval. And when their individual desires begin to encroach on the other’s, “From the moment they’d met, she’d been in panic mode, and he’d been in production mode”, well…Malibu Secrets are spilled, and these don’t have a chance at the cleaners!

A book filled with powerful dialogue, swoon-worthy declarations, and tense, but necessary confrontations. MK Meredith encompasses all of this wonderful to execute a faith of rising above. Addi and Roque fight with each other and for each other – now that’s success!

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Publisher       

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All He Wants for Christmas – Anthology – Reviews

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All He Wants for Christmas – Anthology – Reviews

 

All He Wants for ChristmasAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Description:
Six ALL NEW Christmas stories guaranteed to warm up your holidays… Here’s to finding spies, cops, rockers, SEALs, professional hockey players and billionaires under the Christmas tree this year! In Holly, a town where it’s Christmas every day of the year, 6 shop owners on Main Street are about to find love in unexpected places. Grab this bundle of ALL NEW, 100% sizzling hot holiday tales!

Review:

Six stories?! I’m expected to review six stories, albeit short, sexy reads, all by myself. Surely someone can at leas…hold up. Yes, I’ll take it…I’ll take ‘em all! But I’m nothing if not a people pleaser and since I’m immersed in the Christmas spirit, buy this, read this, gift this ensemble of awesome! All He Wants for Christmas is a six story anthology by all your favorites: Elisabeth Naughton, Alexandra Ivy, Cynthia Eden, Katie Reus, Laura Wright, and Skye Jordan. Second-chance Christmas miracles (and danger) pervade the town of Holly, North Carolina. Every single story was joyful and triumphant! 😉

Melt for Me by Elisabeth Naughton

Second chance love for second chance people. Tate is just as much to blame as Ella for the demise of their relationship. Tate turned to his guitar and his career took off. Ella went to college then…got married?! It’s been 9 long years since these two have communicated; you can imagine the anxiety of seeing a true ex. But when the attraction remains as fierce as you remember…it’s got to mean something!

Because no matter how hard she’d tried to keep her heart locked off these last few years, one night with Tate Kendrick had suddenly kicked the stupid thing right into overdrive.

 

Sweet Rapture by Alexandra Ivy

Back in Holly because Meg was homesick…or because home is where Meg’s sick heart can heal again? Dylan might be the cause of Meg’s heartache, but her life is in danger and he’s determined to keep her safe, by earning her trust and love. She might have a thing or two to say about it.

“Give me three months, angel. If you still want me to leave-“…

“Do I have a choice?” With one last glare, she swung around and headed for the door.

“Meg, wait-“

“Welcome to Holly,” she muttered, not glancing back as she stepped into the cold night air. “I hope you get frostbite.”

 

The Spy Who Came for Christmas by Cynthia Eden

Looking for a respite from the hectic life of a spy, Grayson sinks into the homeyness of Holly. Jolted by his attraction to Jemma was utter kismet, but that magic is interrupted by vengeance. Why can’t the good girl take a walk on the wild side and not regret it. Why can’t the good guy (who only has to be the bad guy on the job) finally get the good girl for good?

Two lost souls. Was that what they really were? Because as she stood before him, Jemma didn’t feel so lost. She actually felt as if she’d just found something that had been missing from her life for too long. Someone.

 

Merry Christmas, Baby by Katie Reus

Jackson made a, well, jackass of himself, and he openly admits it. Nora blew him away. Their friendship was instantaneous and when she came apart in his arms, well…there’s no forgetting that. Ever. There would never be another woman for him. So he walked away. The fu*k?!

Nora picked herself up and dove into her bookstore business. Why’s Jackson suddenly interested again? Again being the operative word, because he never ceased; he only seized up when he envisioned their perfect future together. It’s up to Jackson to make a second, lasting impression.

Sinful in Snow by Laura Wright

A sweet connection between a broken boy and the girl who saved his life. Fast forward 10 years and he’s practically Christian Grey! Underneath the smooth exterior lays the heart of a Grinch and Ms. Wright keeps you clinging (second-guessing) all of his thoughts. Is Gabriel back for revenge (what the hell did Carol even do to deserve such backlash?) or has he been pining for her after all these years? If so, why is Gabriel so reserved, telling himself to stick to the plan?!

All in good time, amidst steamy (and sometimes suspicious) surprises in snowy Holly!

 

Home Advantage by Skye Jordan

Hockey and Christmas – I know I love the combination! NHL superstar, Meier, is back home in Holly with city-boy eyes. Gone is that wonderment, replaced by shiny, fast thrills that NYC offers. Until he succumbs to Faith, that is (yes, double entendre!) Holly hasn’t lost its charm on Faith, losing her father 6 months ago has simply sucked out all the joy in her life. Meier’s presence is more pestering, but he’s the only thing that’s gotten under her skin in a long time. Can Meier make Faith skate off into the sunset with him or will he stay in the penalty box for assuming too much?

It’s not too late to make someone very, very happy. Get wrapped up in the Christmas spirit of Holly! Every story is sure to warm your winter nights.

Reviews by Carmen

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Arresting Developments by Lena Diaz – a Review

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Arresting Developments by Lena Diaz – a Review

 

Arresting DevelopmentsAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
A mysterious beauty had nursed him back to health—and attracted the attention of some very bad men… 

Somewhere over the Everglades, the airplane’s engine failed and Dex Lassiter plummeted into the swamp’s murky depths. Amber Callahan didn’t expect to find any survivors in the wreckage, but Dex was about as tough as they came. And too smart not to dig into why a woman like her had run away to settle in remote Mystic Glades. Or why a killer circled their every move. As floodwaters rose, deputizing Dex was just what this lawless small town needed. Because escape wasn’t possible. And the only thing Dex did better than starting things was defending them.

Review:

A mysterious mist engulfed the Cessna Dex was flying, killing the engine, and causing it to nosedive into a tree. Yup, we’re back in the Everglades, where the incredulous mingles with reality. We met Dex in book 1 of Lena Diaz’s Marshland Justice Series (available here) and to say I was interested is an understatement. Arresting Developments features navy pilot turned millionaire mogul, Dex Lassiter, and Amber Callahan, former healer turn hideout. When their paths cross, secrets are exposed and murder is rampant. It’s hard enough for two opposites to find common ground, but when Dex and Amber lower their guards and glimpse a better, stronger future together…what can’t they survive? Lena Diaz will keep you on edge, looking over your shoulder, in this short, sexy, dangerous story.

Most of the engine was intact. Only a few parts had been ripped away or crushed on impact. Everything looked normal.

Except for the electrical tape…

Since electric tape wasn’t standard equipment in any engine compartment, especially a brand-new plane, he could only reach one logical conclusion.

Someone had tried to kill him.

Amber doesn’t want to get involved (she’s already implicated in something enormous), but when a plane goes down, in the perilous Glades, her good heart is prompted into immediate action. In and out; drop off the city boy in town with no one the wiser. But upon arrival, Dex gets her heart pumping! This charming man can’t keep the flirtations to a minimum despite sepsis poisoning his body (and why can’t Amber stop blushing and enjoying every overture?) Because Lena Diaz wrote one hell of a leading man! That interest I referred to earlier? Far too mild a noun now that he’s developed. I loved the chemistry and temptation; the desire to give in to those impulses without regret (or too much at least, lol!)

Before you know it, Amber’s past is revealed (in parts) and it weighs as heavily as the threat (and guilt) burdening Dex. Attraction aside, Amber and Dex should run and hide back to their respective holes — is there a person who asks for more complications? That would be Dex, lol, but it’s only because their connection is so compelling; it urges them to reach for more: For Amber to stop running and for Dex to right his wrongs.

Am I sharing too many feelings instead of plot lines? This review flowed because Arresting Developments was such a forward, fast-paced read. Ms. Diaz addresses Amber’s questionable past, but she shifts center stage to make room for Dex’s arc; where his vulnerabilities are exposed, mucking up his share of the Mystic Glades waters.

Who knew crisis could forge such an unexpected kinship? Amber and Dex dig deep to offer the best of themselves and no one deserves a happier HEA! I have been inhaling this Marshland series and look forward to the third installation…and the inevitable conclusion. Get on this, my friends!

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Author

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Chance of a Lifetime by Marissa Clarke – a Review

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Chance of a Lifetime by Marissa Clarke – a Review

 

 

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
Sometimes the biggest risk is playing it safe.

Gen Richards is tired of living down to her family’s expectation of the helpless blind girl. Resurrecting her high-school bucket list that begins with “kiss a total stranger” seems just the thing until she finds herself in a panty-melting lip lock with her big brother’s best friend.

Chance Anderson thrives on adrenaline, but Genny’s the one risk he’s not willing to take. His recklessness a decade ago landed her in the hospital and ejected him from her life. He’s bad for her and everyone knows it—especially her big brother.

Chance reluctantly helps Gen complete her bucket list in order to keep her out of trouble. Running through a freezing fountain, playing spin the bottle while fending off a mad horde of stinging insects, and skinny dipping with homicidal attack swans don’t hold a candle to the real danger: falling for the one person he can never have.

 

 

Review:

Today had brought home just how misdirected her entire life had been to date.

When Genevieve takes stock of her life and decides to live it, exhilarated and carefree, she tackles her bucket list. Who could have ever imagined #1, kissing a stranger, would involve the object of her obsession aka her big brother’s best friend aka the a-hole who humiliated her at the age of 15?! Thankfully, Marissa Clarke is at the helm of Chance of a Lifetime, and she gives us a thoroughly romantic story of two people who finally got honest.

Misunderstandings. Too often they muck up a perfectly reasonable explanation. When Chance (the a-hole heartbreaker) allows the problem to go unresolved for 10 long years, let’s say Gen is in no mood to listen. Let’s also assume her hurt feelings have festered into rage. Gen is bitter. Gen can’t speak to Chance without snapping. Like a coin, however, there are always two sides and Ms. Clarke gives Chance a chance to make it right.

-and he was going to pay the price…again. All because he couldn’t stay away. He’d never been able to stay away. She was like a drug. He needed more. He always had. He was addicted, but had been able to control it and hide it… Until last night when she’d kissed him. He’d fallen off the wagon.

Truth is, Chance has been smitten with Gen for years, but has kept it a secret to honor the “bro code”. Problem is Gen was unaware. What happened to being honest about your feelings or, at the very least, keeping it a secret from big brother?! Chance is too honorable for that. Plus, that incident of epic proportions from 10 years ago was supposed to keep Chance away permanently, so his declaration wasn’t of the utmost importance. Until the fated kiss, however. A kiss so charged, is either willing to take a dive? (Incidentally, skinny-dipping is also on her list!)

It wasn’t easy to like Gen. The chip on her shoulder was beyond off-putting. Her defensive posture, full of barbs and low blows, was intended to drive away Chance. Out of loyalty, however, he agreed to assist her and Chance is unwilling to walk away without finally revealing his heart.   Gen isn’t immune to Chance and when she accepts he’s as vulnerable, the teenaged attraction evolves into something curious, something fierce and hungry. Throwing caution to the wind would be something akin to a freefall (skydiving…who doesn’t have it on their list?!)

I did not expect such an outpouring of emotion! Chance stopped taking chances and put himself out there for all, especially Gen, to believe. His words, his professions of love, swept me away. I genuinely hugged my Kindle! Marissa Clarke created a swoon-worthy man. Not only will he satisfy all your needs (in abundance), he will offer his whole heart. Ms. Clarke addresses love gone wrong, but she also endowed Gen with courage to face her own personal dilemma; “dirty laundry” you’re not supposed to talk about in mixed company. It was life-affirming and empowering.    

What more can I say but tell you that second chances make for a splendid forever?

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Publisher

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Tracks of Her Tears by Melinda Leigh – a Review

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Tracks of Her Tears by Melinda Leigh – a Review

 

Tracks of her TearsAmazon / Barnes & Noble

Description:
County investigator Seth Harding intends to spend the holidays with his newly reconciled family, but a few days before Christmas, a homicide thwarts his plan. Seth arrives at the scene and makes a painful discovery: the victim is his brother-in-law’s girlfriend. Her apartment has been ransacked and her toddler left motherless. To make matters worse, Seth’s brother-in-law, Bruce, is missing. With Solitude locked in a rare, deadly deep freeze and the temperature plummeting, the residents launch a desperate search.

Seth calls his wife, social worker Carly Taylor, to take the case so the little girl doesn’t get lost in the foster care system. With the holidays near, Carly brings the child home with them to celebrate Christmas. But when the Taylor farm is also trashed, Seth and Carly must race against time—and against a paralyzing winter storm—to find Bruce and catch a killer in the first pulse-pounding sequel to the Rogue River Novellas.

 

Review:

I’m afraid I’m at a disadvantage. While I had the utter pleasure of reviewing books 1 and 2 of the Rogue River novella series by Kendra Elliot and Melinda Leigh, I regrettably did not catch up to the last 2 books. All of a sudden, the Rogue Winter novellas (2 to be exact) are releasing, and, well…I’m in a confused frenzy. Trusting in Ms. Leigh, which I do, seems the logical place to start. Let me quit the meandering and follow the Tracks of Her Tears.

Now that he had her back in his life, he wouldn’t let anything come between them again.

Seth has reconciled with his wife, Carly, and he’s realized that love is too precious to ever take for granted. When Seth’s brother-in-law’s girlfriend turns up dead, Seth is in a near panic. Did his brother-in-law, Bruce, meet with the same fate or is Bruce suddenly the number one suspect? Either way, how is that not going to disrupt the harmony Seth’s just reestablished at home? With a supportive wife, that’s how!

This is not a “new” Carly. Seth has always admired his wife’s tenacity at home and as a social worker. Facing her brother’s disappearance on the heels of her father’s death should bring Carly to her knees, but she doesn’t cower, she perseveres. Watching Seth and Carly excel at their respective professions was impressive; collaborating to bring forth justice was inspiring. Watching Seth and Carly share a moment’s grief, or a consoling breath, was life-affirming. These two are reinvigorated and protective of their second chance no matter the mounting pressures.

At 99 pages, my initial uncertainty disintegrated immediately. Melinda Leigh will lead you down the Tracks of Her Tears with strong characters who will wrap you up in a moving and motivational story. This novella was far from mournful. I try to be impartial when reading and reviewing, but I can honestly say that Melinda Leigh engages you every time.

Stay close: November 17 will bring forth the equally compelling sequel, Dead in Her Tracks, by co-author, Kendra Elliot.

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Author

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