Tag Archives: Contributor Reviews

The Highlander Burns for Vengeance by Julie Johnstone-review

Posted on by
9

The Highlander Burns for Vengeance (Return of the Highlanders) by Julie Johnstone-review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 30, 2024

Divided by treachery, bound by an edict, they must decide their to love or to hate.

After years of captivity, Graeme Stewart has returned home with a burning desire for vengeance, and it’s all directed at the Campbell clan. They attacked his home, killed his parents, and imprisoned him for eighteen long years. So when the king demands Graeme handfast with his enemy’s sister to end the warring of their clans, he intends to use her to get the revenge he yearns for. But Maisie’s courage and character surprise him at every turn, conjuring admiration and stirring desire. Now, with revenge within his grasp, he must make a choice before it’s too either cling to the malice that kept him alive or release it for the chance at love.

The vengeful and unreasonable Highlander intends to destroy her family, and Maisie Campbell is bound to him for a year and a day. She hates everything about Graeme, except the way he kisses, which is a force that nearly brings her to her knees. But lust does not a marriage make, and the man is hell-bent on proving her brother a traitor and herself treacherous, so she sets out to prove otherwise. Yet, as questions of her brother’s character arise in her own mind and Graeme displays an honorable, fiercely protective nature, Maisie faces a seek a truth that will doom the brother she adores or remain blindly loyal to those she’s always held dear and lose the man she has come to love with all her heart.

••••

REVIEW: Revenge/passion/deceit and loyalty all in one book? sign me up.

Graeme Stewart returns home after being held captive for many years! He’s seeking revenge against the ones who held him! But fate has a different plan…..

Being commanded by the King to marry (handfast) his bitter enemies sister to retain peace between his clan and the Campbell’s has Graeme firstly refusing, then realising he can access the clan through his bride, he can use to her get his revenge. Bitterly he agrees…..

Maisie has no option but to tie herself to the bully Graeme Stewart, thank goodness it’s not forever. It’s going to be a hellish year, but Maisie is a Scot of her word. But if he’s expecting a meek and mild woman, he’s surely mistaken.

Both are extremely hostile towards one another, distrust is easier to maintain than trust. Both are seeking the truth, but what happens when Graeme’s truth muddies Maisie’s? She’s sure her brother is a just and good man, he’s the leader of their clan. But doubts begin to creep in…..

I love this series. I’ve read the previous two books (but not necessary to enjoy this book.) The characters are brought to life with this author, as is her descriptions of the scenery and feelings these two have towards one another. I really like how fact and fiction are woven together to create something so compelling, that I didn’t stop reading until the last page was done.

This book’s full of intrigue and mystery, and a few twists. We see Graeme’s love for his nursemaid/nanny (she was captured with him) we learn of his distrust and immense dislike for the Campbell clan. And we begin to put pieces together of what really happened on the day Graeme was taken prisoner….

Maisie is a great character, she’s no wallflower, she knows her own mind and speaks it. But she’s only a woman, and they were used to broker deals, and form alliances.

Graeme is part of a clan that as children were separated to keep them safe. Their parents were murdered and the children were scattered to keep them safe. So technically Graeme doesn’t know his clan, it’s only what his beloved Eppie has told him through the years. But he’s loyal and he will have his revenge!

Other characters we see are added to the story, and there are a few you need to keep your eyes on 🤐

As time passes distrust turns to trust, and the characters begin to like one another, love isn’t far away, but how can they put aside their differences and doubts to be with one another? Can Graeme really trust a Campbell? And if Maisie finds out her clan had something to do with her husband’s imprisonment, can she turn her back on them?

Another fantastic story from this author. I’m not going to spoil the rest of the book.

But I think you’re going to love this book if you’re a fan of historical romance. If you like your book full of action and suspense then this one I highly recommend.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Secrets of a Highlander’s Heart
Tangled Up with the Highlander

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

Follow: Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Newsletter

Author Julie Johnstone first fell in love with romance fifteen years ago when she picked up her first romance novel in an airport gift shop on the way to Conroe, Texas for a family reunion and spent her whole weekend reading rather than water skiing, which up until then was one of her favorite things to do.

Julie is staying up way too late and typing furiously on her keyboard to finish her next book or blog with her fellow authors at Ladyscribes. Julie is married to an amazing lawyer and when she is not running her two precocious children to one activity or another she is trying to seek out some time to stay in shape and see her dearest friends.

Share

LORD APPLEBY’S GORGEOUS IMPOSTER by Cerise Deland-review

Posted on by
13

LORD APPLEBY’S GORGEOUS IMPOSTER (Scarlett Affairs 3) by Cerise Deland-review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 27,2024

He’s the last man Viv wants to see.
Vivienne de Massé goes to Paris impersonating her oldest sister, the infamous Drury Lane actress, Charmaine Massey. Viv has a reason…and a plan to avenge the capture and death of their other sister during the Terror. Only one man can stop her.

Tate Cantrell is the only man who sees right through her.
Tate Cantrell bursts into her dressing room one night in Paris and calls Viv’s bluff. He reminds Viv she plays a role—and a dangerous game she cannot win alone.

He declares she needs him. She always has. Indeed, he’s spent the last decade helping the émigré Massé family—and falling in love with charming Viv. Now the Earl of Appleby, Tate works as a spy for Scarlett Hawthorne’s network on the Continent. He alone has the means and the connections to help her….if she’ll let him.

Haunted by their past, they’re desperate to save their future together… If they can survive those who would destroy them.

•••••

REVIEW:Book three in this series. I’ve read and loved the previous books. There is a connection (the men this the last two books are known by Tate.) But it doesn’t mean you have to read them in order.

This book takes place at the end of the French Revolution, but at the beginning of Napoleon’s renewed war on Britain! It’s dangerous time being in France, families lose lives and loved ones in this period.

The prologue was gripping, this was set just a little earlier (in the French Revolution period!)

Tate has known this family for a long time, he helped Vivienne’s family escape, and took them to his home in England. With Vivienne he definitely wore his heart on his sleeve, and was absolutely terrified and scared that something would happen to her, so he takes it upon himself to find and bring her back!

Vivienne was born in France, but fled to England to escape the terror. Now she’s back to get her revenge! Vivienne, I felt was really tenacious in her search for the truth of that horrible night. And I admired her spirit and courage when she decides to return to France and find her sister.

This book was well written and really well researched, it has a few discrepancies (but that’s the authors take on it and has to write a few things differently.)

Both Tate and Vivienne have feelings for one another, but circumstances have kept them apart. But now he’s got her in his sights, there is nothing stopping him from claiming her, well, except for her! She is consumed with finding justice for her sister.

It’s a fast paced adventure, with lots of intrigue and suspense.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Lord Ashley’s Beautiful Alibi
Lord Ramsay’s Redheaded Ruin

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie 🦋

Share

The One (Spade Hotel 5) by Marni Mann-review tour

Posted on by
14

The One (Spade Hotel 5) by Marni Mann-review tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3y28jp2

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 27, 2024

They call me insensitive.
They call me uncaring.
I’m a raging alphahole ninety-nine percent of the time.

But no one really knows Rhett Cole at all.

Memories are my currency.
Regret is my drink of choice.
I’m not the guy who didn’t care.
I’m the guy who only cared about her.

Lainey Taylor.

My reason.
My why.
My one.
The woman I’ve been in love with since my freshman year of high school.

A love so strong that I had her name inked on my body when I was eighteen.
She was my fairy tale.
My happily ever after.

Until I ruined … everything.
Until she looked me in the face and told me she never wanted to see me again.

That’s the day my life lost all meaning.
Fifteen years later, she’s back, and my dead heart begins to beat again.
Every story has a villain.
I’ve held that title for too long.

When the truth is revealed …
Will I win back the one?

••••

REVIEW:If you’re looking to finish out the 2024 year with a ugly cry book, you have come to the right place for it. The One by Marni Mann is book five in the Spade Hotel series. It is definitely recommended to read the series in order, there are many details and characters that are present that I think are important when reading the newest installment. However, the books can be read as standalone if you really want to.

It is FINALLY Rhett’s turn. So much of this series shows Rhett as the cold, heartless, villain, never willing to do anything for anyone, always looking out for himself. Well now we have the other side to that story, and what a story it is. To tell that story we have to go back fifteen years ago.

Rhett and Lainey are high school sweethearts, they are young, they are naive, and they are so, so in love. When the unthinkable happens, and tears our two love birds apart, Lainey gets lost in her grief and leaves, off to get lost in the world, severing all contact with Rhett. The pair unravel without each other, it is heartbreaking to see.

Fast forward to the present, Rhett is a grumpy, cold, complicated man who prefers his own company over any other. While Lainey is living with more and more grief everyday. This couple is the definition of living without part of your soul. Their story revolves around their separation, the heartbreak and grief that came from that, the trauma they endured and the loneliness they both have suffered. Rhett’s guilt and Laney’s grief are without a doubt some of the strongest emotions I have experienced from a book before.

When these two finally come back together for the first time in nearly two decades, the tension is palpable. Rhett has to lean into his vulnerability and really show Lainey what he is feeling, and Lainey has to let down her shields that she had spent so long holding up.

I really have to give Marni credit for her ability to write such intense and deep rooted characters, Rhett and Lainey are an amazing combination of pain, hope, forgiveness and passion.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

The Playboy
The Rebel
The Sinner
The Heartbreaker

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sarah

Best-selling Author Marni Mann knew she was going to be a writer since middle school. While other girls her age were daydreaming about teenage pop stars, Mann was fantasizing about penning her first novel. She crafts sexy, titillating stories that weave together her love of darkness, mystery, passion, and human emotion. A New Englander at heart, she now lives in Sarasota, Florida with her husband and their two dogs who subsequently have been characters in her books. When she’s not nose deep in her laptop working on her next novel, she’s scouring for chocolate, sipping wine, traveling to new locations, and devouring fabulous books.

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest/ Amazon Author/ Bookbub/ TikTok/ News Letter Sign Up

Share

Crystal Iris (Crystal Iris) by Blair M Shadows-review & interview

Posted on by
14

Crystal Iris (Crystal Iris 1) by Blair M  Shadows -review and interview

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 1, 2024

Get ready to lose yourself in a world where art and magic intertwine with a blistering hot romance.

Crystal Iris: Book I is the beginning of a tantalizing magical romance series brimming with mystery, modern conflicts, and a love story that will leave you aching for more. A sexy, addictive mystical fantasy with a strong female lead, swoon-worthy book boyfriends, and plenty of spice—perfect for fans of books featured on BookTok.

Professor Iris De Loughery’s life changes on the night of her thirtieth birthday. The gift she receives from her distant father defies reality as she knows it, launching her on a journey of self-discovery alongside a dive into the spectral unknown. Shaken by her relationships, the Harvard art history professor’s struggles intensify when she meets Hoyt, another prism possessor. Controlling her feelings will be her first challenge in this wicked spicy series.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW:

“Life beats down and crushes the soul and art reminds you that you have one.” – Stella Adler”

I love the cover. Definitely in my discreet era 😜

I wasn’t to enamoured by the blurb if I’m honest. And maybe I should have gone in blind. Sometime you are pleasantly surprised.

“The greater the artist, the greater the doubt. Perfect confidence is granted to the less talented as a consolation prize.” – Robert Hughes”

But the book, the book had a few issues, but I couldn’t put it down until the last page was done. It was a little slow in places, and a few discrepancies, but it didn’t take away from the drama and storytelling.

I also liked the little quotes at the beginning of each chapter, I’m not a big lover of history (although I do read historical romance 😉) but I found the snippets the author gave us really fascinating, I felt it added something extra to the story. The MFC is a history professor, so it was a good idea that she could actually tell us a little a little it.)

“One can have no smaller or greater mastery than mastery of oneself.” – Leonardo da Vinci”

MFC is an older character (which I always like, love isn’t just for the young you know 😉) and with an established career and life already. But life isn’t always played out the way you plan it……

Iris is given a gift from an absent father (we get to find out more through the book.) At first Iris wants nothing to with her father or the gift, but curiosity wins out…..

“The artist’s world is limitless. It can be found anywhere, far from where he lives or a few feet away. It is always on his doorstep.” – Paul Strand”

What I liked was this book didn’t info dump on you, it gave it in easy segments, so that it didn’t overwhelm or confuse the reader. (I don’t need confusing thanks 😉)

Hoyt is also a prism holder. And that’s what connects them at first. The friendship grows and venues something more….

But we also have mystery and drama. And that’s the bit I loved. It keeps you wondering how this will turn out

There are so many questions that need answering in the book …..

What’s a prism? What’s its purpose? How does it involve Iris and Hoyt?

And do her mother’s letters hold more clues or questions?

You will have to read the book to find out if my questions are answered.

And the ending!! What a way to leave it open for the next book (which i hope is soon 🤞)

SO if you ignore the blurb and dive straight in I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Plenty of intrigue and mystery. A puzzle that needs solving (I did guess a few things pretty quick, but others completely surprised me.) it says a spicy romance, and then someone describes it as a slow burn 🤷🏻‍♀️ I’ll leave that for you to decide.

Copy supplied for review

🦋 Reviewed by Julie

TRC: .Hi Blair and welcome to The Reading Cafe. Congratulations on the release of Crystal Iris. We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself? 

Blair: I’m a mom first and foremost, and a nostalgic at heart. I love researching and reading about history and art. Having lived in a few exciting places and traveled extensively for work, I’ve gained a broad perspective on the world.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing? 

Blair: My background is in film and TV, and from a young age, I knew I wanted to be involved in telling stories. Coming from a creative family, I was always encouraged to pursue this path.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties did you encounter writing and publishing this story?

Blair: I wish I could say the path has been smooth, but I’ve had to battle self-doubt on a daily basis—something that’s probably common when writing a debut novel. Publishing is an entirely different beast, one I’m still navigating. My mantra has always been: ‘One day at a time.

TRC: Would you please tell us something about the premise of   CRYSTAL IRIS?

Blair: Crystal Iris is a story about love—primarily self-love. It weaves in magical elements, spice, betrayals, and art, but at its core, it’s about discovering who we truly are when faced with life’s challenges.

TRC: What kind of research/plotting did you do, and how long did you spend researching /plotting before beginning CRYSTAL IRIS

BLAIR: I started writing Crystal Iris about seven years ago, and the research has been my favorite part. I loved diving deeper into art history, which was my minor in college.

TRC: Is CRYSTAL IRIS part of a series? A stand alone?

Blair: It’s the first book of a series.

TRC: Do you have plans for a series/ or story for any of the secondary characters?

Blair: All the characters play an important role in the overall story, but as of now, there isn’t a specific book planned for any of them.

TRC: Do you have any interest in writing, or have you ever written for another genre?

Blair: I can see myself writing something in the horror genre.

TRC: Believability is an important factor in writing story lines .How do you keep the fantasy  story line believable? Where do you think some author’s fail?

Blair: Since Crystal Iris isn’t high fantasy, I was careful about how I introduced magical elements, especially since the story is set in the real world. I wanted to bring in the supernatural gradually, building on it with each book. I think it could lose its impact if those elements were revealed too quickly or out of context.”

TRC: Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

Blair: Yes, packaging matters in all products, and books are no exception.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Blair: In my case, the characters make their own choices—I’m just along for the ride.

TRC: The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the storyline so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen?  Where do you believe writer’s fail in this endeavor?

Blair: I think when the character drives the story, it’s much easier to connect with their emotions. When an author tries to restrain the narrative, things can feel forced.

TRC:Do you listen to music while writing? If so, does the style of music influence the storyline direction? Characters?

Blair: I need complete silence when writing, but I love listening to music while going for walks and thinking about the story. I see my characters as real people—they have hobbies, tastes in food, and, of course, their own music preferences. There’s a playlist on Spotify for Crystal Iris Book One, in case anyone’s curious about the music vibes.

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception people have about authors?

Blair: People often think being an author must be very relaxing, but I’ve found the opposite to be true.

TRC: What is something that few, if anyone, know about you?

Blair: I’m a bit of a neat freak—things only bring me stress if they’re not in the way I think they should be.

TRC: Who or what influenced your path towards a young adult, paranormal story line.

Blair: I write what I want to read; I’m basically my own audience.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Blair: Crystal Iris book two.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Blair: Thank you so much for this opportunity, I really appreciate the support.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food- Italian

Favorite Dessert– Ice cream

Favorite TV Show -Lost

Last Movie You Saw- Home alone (my son’s first time)

Dark or Milk Chocolate– Milk chocolate 

Secret Celebrity Crush -Justin Timberlake 

Last Vacation –Destination Rio, Brazil summer 2024

Do you have any pets? -Not currently 

Last book you read -Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Carl Newport

TRC: Thank you Blair for taking the time to answer our questions. We wish you all the best.

Share

Wrong Twin (Hockey Romance) by Roxanne Tully-review

Posted on by
15

Wrong Twin (Hockey Romance) by Roxanne Tully-review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Re-release Date December 5, 2024

August

When my pro-hockey-playing twin brother tanks at the season opener and drops off the grid—I’m left picking up the pieces. And his hockey stick.
I haven’t played since high school. These days I’m more about hedge funds and suits than pucks and bunnies. But I’m far from rusty.
Then she shows up. Harper Maxwell—smart, driven, gorgeous— here looking to even the score after my brother humiliated her on prom night. Troy never deserved her, not for the minute and a half they dated and certainly not now.
When she mistakes me for him and kisses me like she’s been waiting her whole life to do it, I don’t stop her. In fact, there’s not much I have but respect when she locks me in the men’s room and takes off with my clothes.

Harper

Grumpy, gorgeous and green eyes that stare at me like I’m the only girl in the room, my ex is nothing like the arrogant narcissist I remember. What I see is a guy whose diction is as sharp as his speed across the ice. Who’s bulging biceps, chiseled jaw and crooked smile make me forget I’m here for revenge. He’s protective and impulsive in a way that makes my skin sizzle.

It’s like I’ve got the wrong guy.
Or maybe—the wrong twin.

•••••

REVIEW: What a perfect title for this book! The Wrong Twin is a standalone, sports romance with the added kick of a misidentity.

Harper Maxwell wants one thing. Revenge. Revenge for the heartbreak, the tears and the pain that Troy caused. Troy, the guy she thought loved her, the one that she trusted, the one that she thought would never leave her.Little does she know her revenge is going to take a different turn that the one she thinks. That turn takes the form of August. Troy’s twin brother. The twin brother that might just mean more to her than her own revenge.

August and Harper are two of the most interesting main characters I have read before. Their past brings chaos, tension and jealousy to their relationship, not to mention passion and forgiveness. For such a short book, I really enjoyed the banter between the main leads as well as the fast paced plot. For a sports romance, I expected a little more sports, but otherwise, I am very happy with the book.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sarah

Follow: Goodreads / Facebook/ Website / Amazon Author Page / The Reading Cafe /

Roxanne writes contemporary romance with strong realistic heroines and a healthy dose of angst. When she’s not writing, she enjoys hiking, baking and traveling with her real-life male hero.

Share

Twice in a Lifetime (Second Hope 3) by Jessica Prince-review

Posted on by
13

Twice in a Lifetime (Second Hope 3) by Jessica Prince-review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 17, 2024

When I moved away from Hope Valley at eighteen years old, I told myself it was for good. There were too many unpleasant memories, too much history, and too many reminders of the boy who had broken my heart.

Years passed and I built a life and a family with a man I loved. Then, in the blink of an eye, that life was ripped away from me, and the secrets he’d kept from me refused to follow him into his grave.

Now I’m back in my hometown, a shell of my former self, trying to pick up the pieces of my shattered life and fit them back together. My heart has been broken for the second time in my life, but I have to put on a brave face and fake it for the sake of my kids and the people I love.

I thought I was doing a pretty good job of hiding the pain, but there is one person I’ve never been able to fool. One person who was always able to see through the masks I tried to wear, and he is determined to chase my shadows away.

Rhodes Bradbury is all grown up now. The boy who had been my first love is now all man. And to make matters worse, my body still reacts to him the same way it did all those years ago. My heart still races in his presence, and a single look from those deep, dark eyes is enough to make my skin tingle. The voice in the back of my head is screaming at me to steer clear, but there’s just one problem.

The boy he was might have broken my heart, but the man he is now wants a second chance. He isn’t afraid of my baggage. In fact, he wants nothing more than to carry it for me.

I’m trying my hardest not to repeat the mistakes of the past. But he’s doing everything in his power to convince me that most people aren’t lucky enough to have what we had even once, let alone twice in a lifetime.

•••••••••

REVIEW: So worth the wait!!!

Twice In A Lifetime is the third installment of the second generation of the Hope Valley series. For those that have not read the Hope Valley series, I 100% recommend reading it and the previous two books in the series before enjoying this book.

We meet Blythe in the previous book and learn a little of her story there. A Hope Valley native and the daughter of Nona and Trick (The Best Of Me: Hope Valley Book 3) Blythe has returned to her home town after the loss of her husband, with the help of her brother Tristian, Blythe and her three rug rats start to adjust to their new normal. When her husband dies, he left more questions than answers, and those questions are haunting her more and more everyday. Finally, Blythe turns to the one person she knows can help her. A long time family friend and the owner of Alpha Omega, the top Private Investigator firm in Hope Valley. With Linc’s help Blythe hopes to uncover the answers to the questions her late husband left to her. Just when Blythe thinks life can’t get more complicated, in walks the one man who has always owned her heart, but broke it in two all those years ago.

Rhodes.

Rhodes (Gypsy’s brother from Wrong Side of the Tracks; Hope Valley book 4) has life’s half a life since leaving his heart behind with Blythe. She has always been his only love, no other woman could ever take her place. Not that he ever tried, he found his Angel at 17, and then broke both their hearts when he left for the military. Now, twenty years later, Blythe is back in Hope Valley, nursing a broken heart and searching for answers. When she comes into his job at Alpha Omega, he can’t help but try for a second chance with her. Slowly, Rhodes, Blythe and her kids form a bond of trust and second chances. Secrets come to light, hearts are broken and truths are uncovered. -Blythe’s ex, didn’t see that coming for sure-

I can’t say enough how much I freaking love Hope Valley! Rhodes and Blythe were such a treat to read, I wanted more and more as the plot progressed. The heartbreak between these two felt so raw, their emotions so close to the surface. Blythe was the one for Rhodes and even though he knew he was the who broke them apart, he also knew he would never love another woman. That’s what romance books are! Rhode’s is a protective, sweet alpha who wants to love Blythe and her children, and Blythe, she has her own hangups, but once she learned to trust her own heart again, she knew Rhodes was it.

I can’t wait to see what else comes from the New Hope Valley series!!

Previous reviews and reading order
The Little Things
Tangled Up with You

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sarah

Born and raised around Houston Texas, Jessica spent most of her life complaining about the heat, humidity, and all around pain in the ass weather. It was only as an adult that she quickly realized the cost of living in Houston made up for not being able to breathe when she stepped outside. That’s why God created central air, after all.

Jessica is the mother of a perfect little boy–she refuses to accept that he inherited her attitude and sarcastic nature no matter what her husband says.

In addition to being a wife and mom, she’s also a wino, a coffee addict, and an avid lover of all types of books–romances still being her all time favs. Her husband likes to claim that reading is her obsession but she just says it’s a passion…there’s a difference. Not that she’d expect a boy to understand.

Jessica has been writing since she was a little girl, but thankfully grew out of drawing her own pictures for her stories before ever publishing her first book. Because an artist she is not.

Facebook | Website | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Amazon | Goodreads

Sign up for Jessica’s Newsletter

Share

LADY EVA’S FALLEN ROGUE (The Riddle Sisters 1) by Jennifer Monroe

Posted on by
15

RoeLADY EVA’S FALLEN ROGUE (The Riddle Sisters 1) by Jennifer Monroe-review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 1, 2024

As the eldest daughter of one of England’s most influential families, Lady Eva Riddle has no time for love. Since the tragic accident that claimed her parents and fiancé, she has devoted herself entirely to raising her younger sisters. But when a cryptic letter surfaces regarding her parents’ past, it directs her to seek out a former Bow Street Runner, Garrett Dryden—a strikingly handsome rogue with a wicked smile and the only man who can help her uncover the truth.

Garrett Dryden, once accustomed to a life of privilege, now sells his skills to the highest bidder. Romance is the last thing on his mind; that is, until a captivating new client arrives at his door. Lady Eva is poised, breathtakingly beautiful, and a symbol of everything he despises about high society. Though he knows the mystery she seeks to unravel will lead them both into peril, Garrett reluctantly agrees to help.

As their partnership deepens, so does the undeniable attraction between them. But trust is hard-won for a disillusioned rogue, and Eva’s lingering doubts about Garrett’s shadowy past could leave her reputation—and her heart—in jeopardy. In a world where scandal can destroy even the most enduring love, will they risk everything for a chance at happiness?

The first in The Riddle Sisters series, Lady Eva’s Fallen Rogue is a Regency romance filled with endearing characters, secrets, and a love that defies all odds.

••••••••

REVIEW: A new series by an author I’ve not read before.

Lady Eva Riddle’s parents and fiancé are killed in a tragic carriage accident, and for over a year now, she’s looked after her younger siblings. One day she received a package and a letter, it advises her to talk to no one about the contents, but to seek out an ex Bow Street Runner.

Garrett Dryden is now a book binder, well that’s his cover, he’s actually private investigator (or thief catcher) down on his luck, he was once a man of wealth and title. He’s quick to judge the wealthy as they usually come across and rude and arrogant. But secretly longs to restore his good name.

He’s approached by a young woman who asks for his help in solving a case. At first he’s not really interested. But something about the case intrigues him….

Together they set off to uncover the mystery of the package and the “supposedly” accidental death of her parents and fiancée.

Both have trust issues, and it does take a little time for that trust to be earned. And even it does, then Garrett is convinced she is the last for him! But can he keep her safe from the danger that soon befalls them?

A clean/sweet romance is what I usually read when I’ve overloaded on dark/mafia and heavy topics. And this one hit the spot.

Both Garrett and Eva are really great characters, technically from the same background, until Garrett falls on hard times (do we find out why? 🤐) both are hard workers, both want answers to the puzzle that surrounds them.

A few plot twists (a few I saw coming, but one or two did surprise me.)

How will Eva take the news that her parents and fiancée were not all they seemed? And will she be able to serve justice on their behalf?

It’s the first book in a new series, and I can’t wait to see where the next one takes us. This one ends well, but leaves it open for the next book. So I’d probably advise reading in order.

If you like your romance with no smut, but with plenty of mystery, then I think you’ll like this one.

🦋 Reviewed by Julie

Copy supplied for review

Share

Neutral Zone Trap (For Puck’s Sake 10) by Crea Reitan-review tour

Posted on by
14

🏒💜Neutral Zone Trap (For Puck’s Sake 10) by Crea Reitan-review tour🏒💜

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 12, 2024

I want something true.

Torin

Hiding behind my mascot mask has always worked in my favor. As someone with social anxiety and paralyzing shyness, the ability to be out in the world without being seen is the only way I’m able to function. It also means I can long for my crush from afar without him knowing.

I’m invisible inside my costume and try to go unseen otherwise. Except that Hugo always sees me because he’s such a sweet, kind, thoughtful man. Is it any surprise that I’m completely in love with him?

What starts out as an accidental anonymous text turns into a date but there’s just one problem. Hugo thinks he’s texting a girl. What happens when he finds out that’s not the case?

Hugo

When my closest friends all pair up, I’m left as the unpartnered ninth wheel, which becomes awkward and makes me feel out of place. That’s where my new friend, Torin, comes in.

The face behind the Surry the Seal is Torin Jonah. He’s so quiet and nice, I try to always make sure to say hi to him when I see him. It’s not hard to make sure someone knows that you see them.

We start hanging out all the time – having sleepovers, platonic cuddling, maybe a little throwback to teenage mutual jerking sessions in the shower amongst bros. When I tell him that I’ve been talking to this girl and I think I like her, suddenly I feel like I’m being unfaithful to him.

Now I’m not sure what to do. Date this girl or maybe see if Torin could possibly be interested in me and see what happens.

•••••

REVIEW:I absolutely loved this book. It’s my second favourite in this series.

Yes it’s a slow burn (but I’m so glad it was) is there plenty of hockey? (yes there is) do we catch up with regulars from the series? Absolutely.

Torin although part of this series, hasn’t really been seen in previous books. He’s the clubs mascot. Hidden behind a mask is just how Torin likes it. Suffering from crippling anxiety meant Torin can’t really get a job that he’s seen! So hiding gives him a wage and a sense of purpose.

Torin also has a HUGE crush on Hugo. It started also as soon as Torin spots Hugo, and when he says hi, or waves to him, it just makes his crush grow.

But Hugo is straight, and Torin wouldn’t ever put himself in a position to say hi.

Hugo is a defender, it’s his job to keep the puck away before it gets to the goal. He’s a big guy, and has been told often he’s just a “jock”, he’s been told to think before he speaks as he often offends! He loves his team mates, and he loves what he does…..

But….. Hugo is lonely! He’s watching his friends pair off and find their happy ever afters. And the puck bunnies don’t really hold any interest for him anymore. (In fact, there is a part in here that makes me 😱 and then 😢)

Torin starts the ball rolling by accidentally texting Hugo! (I’m not going to give that part away, as I did chuckle at that incident.) Hugo responds, and they start a conversation…..

Meanwhile Hugo has started coming over and saying hi to Torin, and a friendship begins…..

Hugo is socially awkward, he just says whatever he thinks or feels. (Not really the done thing, but I found it endearing) he likes the friendship that is growing between Torin and him, but he’s also looking forward to the texts he receives from his new friend. And as his feelings for both of the people, start to grow, he has to make a choice….

So what happens when Hugo goes on a date with his text “girl” and meets the man who has slowly taken over Hugo’s every waking moment?

OMG!! There is apart in here, that absolutely broke me 😢 I kept fingers, toes and everything in between crossed 🤐

The storyline is absorbing, the characters had my attention from the first word, until the last one. I just wanted this story to go on and on and on.

I like the words we get from the author in the beginning of her book, and at the end. Usually very thought provoking.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Shiver
Starting Line
Lucky Shot
The Crease
Wingman Score
Coach Stare Down
Stick Lessons
The Defending Goal
Just Winging It

Copy supplied for review

🦋 Reviewed by Julie B

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. When she can’t fall asleep at night, she thinks up new scenes for her characters to act out. This, of course, is how most of her meant-to-be-thrown-away characters tend to end up front and center – and utterly swoon-worthy! Don’t ask her how many book boyfriends she has…

When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don’t even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!

Author Links:

Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Website /

Share