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Sugar Plum Spies by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

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Sugar Plum Spies by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

 

 

 

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Description:
VISIONS OF SUGAR PLUMS . . .

Most spies take a break for the holidays, but not me, Charlotte Locke. As an analyst for Section 47, a secret spy organization, I normally use my magical form of synesthesia to uncover lies and track paramortal bad guys from the comfort of my cubicle. But tonight I’m going out into the field, along with my partner, Desmond Percy, a powerful galvanist.

Instead of enjoying Christmastime in the city, I’m in a German castle, dressed like a toy soldier and masquerading as a waitress at a swanky Christmas Eve party. My mission? To gather information that will help Section 47 track down a dangerous enemy.

Despite the glitz and glamour, I can’t shake the sense that something is wrong—and that Desmond and I might not leave the party alive.

DANCES OF DEATH . . .

My name is Desmond Percy, although I’ve had many aliases during my years working as a cleaner for Section 47. But I’ve never had a real partner until Charlotte Locke.

My part of the mission is simple: pretend to be a guest and keep an eye on things at the party while Charlotte uses her synesthesia to track down the information we need. But what starts out as a sugar plum dream quickly turns into a holiday nightmare.

Forget the mission. All I want for Christmas is to keep Charlotte safe.

__________

Barb’s Review:
Sugar Plum Spies by Jennifer Estep is the 2nd book in her Section 47 series.  I am a big fan of Jennifer Estep, having enjoyed all her fantastic series.  After reading the first book in this series, I couldn’t wait to read this book.   Refresher: Secret 47 is a secret government agency that handles paranormal, terrorists, criminals, and have magical abilities.  Their job is to gather information to prevent attacks, casualties, as well as to protect the mortal world; especially against those who create dangerous weapons.

Our main heroes are Charlotte Locke and Desmond Percy; Charlotte is an analyst, with a magic of synesthesia to allow her to uncover lies and track bad guys; Desmond has powerful magical abilities, especially using energy.  They are sent as a team to a party at a German Castle, and have Charlotte sneak out later, when Desmond shuts the lights off, for her to find more information on their enemy. What turns out to be a simple assignment, turns into a nightmare, as all hell breaks loose. 

From start to finish, there was so much action with either Charlotte or Desmond fighting the enemies.  Desmond with help from Gabriel, managed to kill off the mercenaries in the ballroom, but he was worried about Charlotte. She found herself stuck in her plans to find information, and was caught, along with the lady in the house, as terrorist threatened their lives.  I really loved Charlotte, especially how she always managed to get out of death-defying situations.

Sugar Plum Spies was a fun, exciting story, that had constant danger and action, with some romance and witty banter.  The entire story revolved around one night, and lots of fun.  This was another wonderful intriguing urban fantasy that is very well written by Jennifer Estep.  I loved both Charlotte and Desmond, and look forward to more on them in future books.   I suggest you read Sugar Plum Spies, as I fully enjoyed it.

 

Sandy’s Reviews:

SUGAR PLUM SPIES is the second instalment in Jennifer Estep’s contemporary adult SECTION 47 paranormal, urban fantasy series focusing on paramortal analyst / diner waitress for Section 47 Charlotte Locke, and assassin/cleaner Desmond Percy. SUGAR PLUM SPIES can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary

SOME BACKGROUND: Paramortals make up approximately one percent of the world’s population, and most have hidden their magic from the ‘mortal’ world. Section 47 is a paramortal spy organization whose mission was to gather intelligence to prevent terrorist attacks but found themselves tracking those who use magic to commit their crimes.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Charlotte and Desmond) follows Section 47 agents Charlotte Locke and Desmond Percy on their latest assignment in Frankfurt Germany. Heiress Elsa Eisen moved her orphaned niece Lina to an historical castle in the wake of her parents’ murder. Hoping to give Lina a magical Christmas, Elsa sponsored a Christmas Eve Nutcracker fund raiser featuring a world famous ballerina and scenes from the play but all does not go according to plan when the reveal of the world-famous and multi-million dollar Nutcracker Ruby brings out an array of paramortal assassins, thieves, and Section 47 Agents. Hoping to learn the location of CEO and founder of Hyde Engineering Henrika Hyde, a chemist who has invented a powerful weapon in her war against the paramortal, Charlotte, Desmond and fellow agent Gabriel Chase finds themselves on the defensive when lives are threatened, and our couple face the prospect of losing one another.

The relationship between Charlotte and Desmond has been building since the first instalment, a relationship that is now passionate and intense. Desmond is desperate to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love, and Charlotte knows that Desmond is the man that calls to his heart. The $ex scenes are seductive.

The secondary and supporting characters included heiress Elsa Eisen and her niece Lina; ballerina Katarina Tanetsa, as well as the return of Section 47 Agent Gabriel Chase. The requisite evil has many faces.

SUGAR PLUM SPIES is a fast paced, action packed, violent story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, desperation and determination, magic and mystery. The premise is intriguing and exciting; the romance is impassioned; the characters are energetic and dynamic.

Jennifer is graciously offering a $10 Amazon Gift card to ONE (1) lucky commenters  at The Reading Cafe:

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE:  If you are having difficulty commenting after logging into the site, please refresh the page at the top of your computer

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE and Follow Jennifer Estep on Facebook

4. Please LIKE and Follow Jennifer Estep on TWITTER

5. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

6. FOLLOW us on Twitter for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Giveaway open Internationally

9. Giveaway runs from November 9 – 12, 2022

 

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Only Bad Options by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

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Only Bad Options by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

 

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Description:
A WOMAN WHO SEES EVERYTHING . . .

Few people know the name Vesper Quill. To most folks, I’m just a lowly lab rat who designs brewmakers and other household appliances in the research and development lab at the powerful Kent Corp. But when I point out a design flaw and a safety hazard in the new line of Kent Corp starcruisers, everyone knows who I am—and wants to eliminate me.

I might be a seer with a photographic memory, but I don’t see the trouble headed my way until it’s too late. Suddenly, I’m surrounded by enemies and fighting for my life.

I don’t think things can get any worse until I meet Kyrion Coldren, an arrogant Regal lord who insists that we have a connection, one that could be the death of us both.

A MAN WHO CAN’T FORGET HIS PAST . . .

The name Kyrion Coldren strikes fear in the hearts of people across the Archipelago Galaxy. As the leader of the Arrows, the Imperium’s elite fighting force, I’m used to being a villain, as well as the personal assassin of Lord Callus Holloway. Even the wealthy Regals who live on the planet of Corion are afraid of me.

But everything changes when I meet Vesper Quill. I might be a powerful psion with telepathic, telekinetic, and other abilities, but Vesper sees far too many of my secrets.

Thanks to an arcane, unwanted quirk of psionic magic, the two of us are forced to work together to unravel a dangerous conspiracy and outwit the dangerous enemies who want to bend us to their will.

•••••••

 

Barb’s Review:
Only Bad Options by Jennifer Estep is the first book in her Galactic Bonds series.  As noted, many times, I am a big fan of Jennifer Estep, having enjoyed all her fantastic series.  I was thrilled to learn that she was starting a different kind of new series, and after reading the first book, I can’t wait for more.

This series centers on Vesper Quill, our heroine, who works for Kent Corp, in their research and development lab.  Vesper is considered a lowly lab rat and a seer, she has uncanny ability to find flaws and fix anything in high tech equipment, as well as brew makers/appliances.  She discovers a terrible conspiracy, and before she can point it out, the tables are turned, and she is sent away to be eliminated. 

Kyrion Caldaren, is a powerful and arrogant leader of the Imperium Arrows, who is known to be the most notorious assassin, having killed many; he reports directly to Lord Callus Holloway. During a battle, Kyrion accidently meets the low lab rat, who is sent out to fight the battle in front of them, knowing Vesper was expected to not survive.  But she manages to use her seer knowledge and experience on the weapons used, Vesper manages to save herself and Kyrion. 

Kyrion, at first, is not planning on saving her, but in a short time, he finds her abilities intriguing. They start out as enemies, with Kyrion thinking she is a spy, and in time they become partners in stopping the evil Kent family, who have teamed with the enemy. 

What follows is an exciting, action filled, suspenseful story that kept me unable to put the book down. Vesper was a great heroine, as she was not only smart, savvy, but her abilities was amazing; as some of her other abilities, allowed her to see things beyond, an discover many secrets. In time, I began to like Kyrion, who earlier was not really likable.  Only Bad Options had a Galactic theme, with seers, powerful psion, magic, telekinesis, telepathy, as well as spaceships, blasters and great technology. 

The last third of the book was extremely tense and exciting, with a few surprises along the way. I enjoyed watching Vesper and Kyrion begin to work together, as they eventually made a great team.  I will not tell too much more, as it would be spoilers, but it was a wild satisfying ending.

Only Bad Options is a different and intriguing Sci-Fi and Fantasy new series that is very well written by Jennifer Estep.  I loved both Vesper and Kyrion, and look forward to see what Estep has planned in future books.   I suggest you read Only Bad Options, as I fully enjoyed it.

 

Sandy’s Review:

ONLY BAD OPTIONS is the first instalment in Jennifer Estep’s adult, sci-fi GALACTIC TRUEBOND space-opera series. This is thirty-seven year old R&D tech specialist Vesper Quill, and thirty-eight year old, leader of the Arrows Kyrion Coldren’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Kyrion and Vesper) ONLY BAD OPTIONS follows in the wake of our heroine discovering a possible fatal flaw in in the new line of Kent Corp starcruisers, a safety hazard that had already killed several hundred people. In an effort to keep Vesper quiet, our heroine is imprisoned and set to fight a war on another planet, a fight that is meant to end in her immediate death but Vesper isn’t about to go down without a fight, and alongside the infamous personal assassin of Lord Holloway, our couple manage to reach the relative safety of an enemy ship. With her ability to ‘see’ and ‘fix’ things, Vesper and Kyrian manage to escape only to come up close and personal with the people who want her gone but all is not well with our story line couple when blood contact reveals a Truebond mate, a mating neither wants or is willing to accept. As our couple must come to terms with their unknown future, the enemy begins to circle, hoping to destroy everyone in their way.

ONLY BAD OPTIONS is a space-opera-esque, Cinderella-esque, story line reminiscent of many of Jennifer’s previous series. Friends turned enemies, dysfunctional family bloodlines, power and control, magic and mayhem, attraction and rejection. The reader is pulled into a sci-fi fantasy of betrayal and vengeance, and a hierarchy of command desperate to rule without question. Like most dystopian story lines, there is limited to no romance as the couple must fight for their lives, all the while rejecting the attraction to one another, and the potential for a broken heart. The premise is intriguing and captivating; the characters are numerous, powerful and determined. If you are looking for romance, there is none-only rejection and second thoughts.

Jennifer is graciously offering a $10 Amazon Gift card to ONE (1) lucky commenters  at The Reading Cafe:

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE:  If you are having difficulty commenting after logging into the site, please refresh the page at the top of your computer

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE and Follow Jennifer Estep on Facebook

4. Please LIKE and Follow Jennifer Estep on TWITTER

5. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

6. FOLLOW us on Twitter for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Giveaway open Internationally

9. Giveaway runs from September 21 – 25, 2022

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Tear Down the Throne by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

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Tear Down the Throne by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

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Description:
Crown princess. Clever spy. Powerful mind magier. Gemma Ripley of Andvari is all those things–and determined to stop an enemy from using magical tearstone weapons to conquer her kingdom.

Gemma’s quest for answers leads her to a trade Summit between the various kingdoms. Among the other royals in attendance is Queen Maeven Morricone of Morta and her son, Prince Leonidas–Gemma’s charming and dangerous nemesis.

Gemma knows that Maeven always has a long game in motion, and sure enough, the cunning queen invokes an arcane tradition that threatens the fragile truce between Andvari and the other kingdoms. Despite her best intentions, Gemma once again finds herself thrown together with Leo and battling her growing feelings for the enemy prince.

When a series of deadly attacks shatters the Summit’s peaceful negotiations, Gemma realizes that someone wants to tear the royals down from their thrones–and that this enemy just might succeed.

 

Barb’s Review:
Tear Down the Throne by Jennifer Estep is the 2nd book in her Gargoyle Queen series.  I am a big fan of Jennifer Estep, and I couldn’t wait for Tear Down the Throne; I am happy to say I am loving this series.

Tear Down the Throne picks up where it left off in the last book, with Gemma back home in Andvari. Gemma has recovered from her injuries (scars still remain), which her evil enemy Milo inflicted on her.  But nothing stops Gemma from continuing spying on Milo, as well as Maeven, to learn what they are up to; especially with Milo’s use of the tearstone.   Gemma always has her friend Reiko, who is also a spy, with her when they investigate; I really liked how close Gemma and Reiko were.  Slowly, Gemma learns to use her magical powers, which begin to increase.

The annual Summit is upon us, with all royals from various kingdoms gathering to make trades.   Gemma knows she will come face to face with Queen Maeven Morricone of Morta, as well as her evil son, Prince Milo, and Prince Leonidas (the man she truly cares for), whom she feels betrayed her during her capture. Determined to ignore Leo, Gemma knows this will be heard, as they both have strong feelings for each other; the caveat is that they are both from warring kingdoms.   I really loved Gemma and Leo together, and prayed they would find a way. 

Queen Maeven is up to her old tricks, and invokes an old tradition that threatens the fragile truce between all other kingdoms. This will also push Gemma and Leo closer together, even if she continues to deny her feelings; they begin to work together to try and see what Milo is planning, to destroy his mother, and assume control of Morta, and all kingdoms, including Andvari.

What follows is an exciting, tense, wild last half of the book that had me on the edge of my seat.  Gemma was an amazing heroine, as she continues utilize her growing power, especially against another dangerous enemy.   The wild crazy climax was a thrill a minute, with all their lives in danger and me holding my breath to see if she would survive. At one point near the end, with her life on the line, Gemma rises up with help from her loyal gargoyles and friends.  To say too much more would be spoilers. I will say this was non-stop action from start to finish, with magic, mystery, political intrigue, suspense, mystery, and some surprises along the way.

Jennifer Estep has given us another fantastic story, filled with, magic, mystery, betrayal, espionage; as well as a slow burn romance that beings to opening move forward.  Tear Down the Throne was so very well written by Estep, which is no surprise, as I love all her books. I cannot wait for the next book.  If you enjoy fantasy, you need to start reading the Gargoyle Queen series, which you should start with the first book, Capture the Crown.

 

Sandy’s Review

TEAR DOWN THE THRONE is the second instalment in Jennifer Estep’s adult, GARGOYLE QUEEN dystopian, fantasy series, a spin off from the author’s CROWN OF SHARDS series. The Gargoyle Queen trilogy focuses on the secondary characters originally introduced in the Crown of Shards series. This is twenty-nine year old, Andvari Princess Gemma Ripley, and Mortan Prince Leonidis Morricone’s story line. TEAR DOWN THE THRONE should not be read as a stand alone as some of the events in the current time line are as of a direct result of the events in book one CAPTURE THE CROWN but the author does recap some of the history and background using memories and reflections.

SOME BACKGROUND: Sixteen years earlier, Gemma Ripley lost everything including the ability to control her magic the day Queen Maeven declared war on her family, killing her mother, and destroying her heart in the process. As Gemma’s ‘mind magic’ becomes more powerful than she could have ever imagined, our heroine struggles to forgive and forget, knowing she will one day have to destroy the people who destroyed her life, including the man that she loves.

NOTE: If you have not read book one, there may be spoilers in my review.

Told from first person perspective (Princess Gemma) TEAR DOWN THE THRONE continues to focus on Princess Gemma Ripley as she tries to uncover the truth behind the mining and disappearance of the magical ‘tearstone’ in Mortan territory. Weeks earlier, working as a spy, Gemma went undercover in enemy territory but found herself imprisoned and tortured by the Mortan family, a direct result of betrayal by the man she once loved, Mortan Prince Leonidis ‘Leo’ Morricone. With the approach of the yearly Summit, a gathering of Royal families and Kingdoms, Gemma knows she will have to face her torturers and the man she once loved but our heroine will be blindsided when Queen Maeven demands Gemma enter into a marriage with her son Leo, a marriage that would unite two powerful Kingdoms. When Gemma refuses, Maeven invokes the ‘Ungerian Gauntlet’, a series of challenges that will prove her son Leo is a worthy suitor but Gemma suspects Maeven is sentencing her son to die, a ‘legal’ murder to be enacted in front of hundreds of people. All is not well within the Kingdom of Morricone, as not only is Gemma a target of several assassination attempts during the Summit but so too, is Queen Maeven and Prince Leonidis. Meanwhile, Prince Leonidis’ brother Crown Prince Milo, who is a prime suspect in the numerous attempts of assassination against our story line heroine, has been conducting a series of experiments, years of experiments that will directly affect someone close to the Ripley family. What ensues is Prince Leonidis attempts to win the Gauntlet as Gemma begins another investigation into the attempts on her life, and Queen Maeven’s desire to invoke the Gauntlet, only to realize betrayal comes from more than one Kingdom, and from within, as well.

Once again , the world building is intricate, complex and detailed. The story line and premise is familiar and similar to the author’s CROWN OF SHARDS series, as well as her ELEMENTAL ASSASSIN series including the use of ‘elemental’ magic, corresponding characters and history, powerful metal and stones, violence directed at the story line heroine and her family; Gemma’s rag tag team of warriors and friends, and the evil Maeven and her dysfunctional family whose goal is to ultimately rule and take over every territory and Kingdom, while destroying Gemma and everyone she loves.

As per my previous review, there continues to be an overwhelming use of the words purple (71 times) and violet (54 times) pertaining to the Mortan Kingdom’s Royal colors, eye color, and world as a whole.

TEAR DOWN THE THRONE is another intriguing story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, family and friendships, relationships and love. The premise is captivating but the ongoing use of real world / modern day vernacular is distracting; the characters are charismatic, magical and powerful including fellow spy and dragon shifter Reiko Yamato, gargoyles Grimley (Gemma’s familiar), Fern and newcomer Otto, and strixes Lyra (Leo’s familiar) and Violet; the romance struggles in the face of betrayal and issues of trust; there continues to be no perceived palpable or discernible sexual attraction between our story line couple but saying that, dystopian and urban fantasy ‘style’ story lines do not necessarily focus on the love connection or romances which are often behind the scenes or tertiary to the main story line, although there occasionally is a ‘love match’ for the leading characters.

 

Jennifer is graciously offering an ARC paper copy of Tear Down The Throne to ONE (1) lucky commenters  at The Reading Cafe:

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE:  If you are having difficulty commenting after logging into the site, please refresh the page at the top of your computer

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE and Follow Jennifer Estep on Facebook

4. Please LIKE and Follow Jennifer Estep on TWITTER

5. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

6. FOLLOW us on Twitter for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Giveaway open USA only

9. Giveaway runs from May 2 – 7 2022

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The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis – Dual Review

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The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis – Dual Review

 

 

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Description:
Eight months since losing her mother in the Spanish flu outbreak of 1919, twenty-one-year-old Lillian Carter’s life has completely fallen apart. For the past six years, under the moniker Angelica, Lillian was one of the most sought-after artists’ models in New York City, with statues based on her figure gracing landmarks from the Plaza Hotel to the Brooklyn Bridge. But with her mother gone, a grieving Lillian is rudderless and desperate—the work has dried up and a looming scandal has left her entirely without a safe haven. So when she stumbles upon an employment opportunity at the Frick mansion—a building that, ironically, bears her own visage—Lillian jumps at the chance. But the longer she works as a private secretary to the imperious and demanding Helen Frick, the daughter and heiress of industrialist and art patron Henry Clay Frick, the more deeply her life gets intertwined with that of the family—pulling her into a tangled web of romantic trysts, stolen jewels, and family drama that runs so deep, the stakes just may be life or death.

Nearly fifty years later, mod English model Veronica Weber has her own chance to make her career—and with it, earn the money she needs to support her family back home—within the walls of the former Frick residence, now converted into one of New York City’s most impressive museums. But when she—along with a charming intern/budding art curator named Joshua—is dismissed from the Vogue shoot taking place at the Frick Collection, she chances upon a series of hidden messages in the museum: messages that will lead her and Joshua on a hunt that could not only solve Veronica’s financial woes, but could finally reveal the truth behind a decades-old murder in the infamous Frick family.

 

Barb’s Review:
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis is a historical standalone novel. The book is centered around the Frick Mansion/Museum in two-time frames (1919 & 1966). We meet Lillian Carter from the start, as she is a successful model using the pen name of Angelica, but with the death of her mother, her life has totally fallen apart, struggling to pay her bills. At the age of 21, Lilian depended on her mother to arrange everything, and now she is desperate.

Lillian still dreams of going to Hollywood and becoming a movie star; but when her landlord constantly pressures her, things go from bad to worse, as she becomes a suspect when the landlord’s wife was murdered. Lillian will escape the apartment, and accidently is mistaken for someone else, and ends up getting a job at the Frick Mansion, working as a private secretary for Miss Helen (daughter of Henry Clay Frick).  Lillian plans to stay a month or so just to make some money to pay for her trip to California.  Miss Helen was a difficult and demanding person to work for, but she began to rely on Lillian to do much of the work for her.

In the other timeline of 1966, we meet Veronica Weber, who is also a model, attending the photo shoot for Vogue at the Frick Museum with other more experienced models.  While cleaning up, and walking around, Veronica finds herself locked in the museum, with no power, and to make it worse, a major snow storm hits. While she is stuck at the museum, Veronica she begins to search some papers, and becomes intrigued when she learns about a scavenger hunt created in 1919. In a short period, Veronica runs into Joshua Lawrence, the museum archivist, who fell asleep by his office in the basement.  Together they look for food, drinks and other things and when Veronica tells Joshua about the scavenger hunt, they start looking for clues to help them pass the time, which could be days.

Back in 1919, Lillian (Miss Lily) learns more about the Frick family, and helping Miss Helen send romantic letters to her suiter.  She finds herself pulled into a web of family secrets, betrayals, missing cameo (with the Magnolia diamond), romantic trysts, and murder.

What follows is very well written story that eventually merges the two timelines together.  The missing Magnolia Diamond will play a part in both timelines.  To tell too much more would ruin the book, so you need to read this from start to finish.  Fiona Davis gives us a detailed look at New York in 1919, with the wealthy historic Frick mansion, as well as story of mystery, murder and love.  I did enjoy both timelines, as well as the ending.

 

Sandy’s Review:

THE MAGNOLIA PALACE by Fiona Davis is a story of historical fiction following two alternating timelines (1919 and 1966) that focuses on models Lillian ‘Angelica’ Carter, and Veronica Weber.

Told from dual third person perspective (Lillian and Veronica) THE MAGNOLIA PALACE adds color, and up close but fictional retrospective into the lives of the wealthy and controversial Frick Family of New York City. In 1919, model Lillian Carter is an artist’s muse known as Angelica; a sculptor’s model whose image has been used throughout New York, attached to buildings and museums, but a scandal is about to send our heroine on the run, and in the wake of her mother’s death from the Spanish Flu, has left Lillian penniless and alone. A case of hunger and mistaken identity finds Lillian Carter working as the private secretary for the wealthy Frick heiress Helen Frick, a thirty year old spinster whose own life is entwined with that of her embattled and ailing father. For three months Lillian will keep a low profile working for Helen Frick and the Frick family but her alternate identity is about to be exposed, and another scandal will force our heroine to run for the sins of someone else.

Fast forward to 1966, wherein model Veronica Weber’s latest assignment has landed her in New York for a Vogue shoot at the famed Frick Collection, a museum that was once home to the Frick family heirs. Fired within minutes, Veronica finds herself wandering the museum, only to be trapped inside, along with intern archivist Joshua Lawrence, when a power failure locks down New York City in the wake of a storm. Walking the museum, Veronica finds what looks to be clues to a scavenger hunt from years before, a scavenger hunt that will reveal a truth that will ease some of the ghosts and troubles from the past.

THE MAGNOLIA PALACE is a story of power and riches, the haves and the have-nots, secrets and lies, vengeance and family. Seamlessly blending fact with fiction, as per her style, Fiona Davis pulls the reader into an intriguing and fascinating story of murder and betrayal, family and friendships, love and acceptance, romance and art. Lillian ‘Angelica’ Carter’s character is loosely based upon the scandal-plagued, real-life, early 1900’s artist’s model Audrey Munson, whose image graces the pediment of the Frick Collection, as well as a number of famous statues found in New York. THE MAGNOLIA PALACE is a wonderful escape into a Gilded Age house, and the ghosts that continue to inhabit its’ world.

Copies provided by Publisher

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Lord Grantwell’s Christmas Wish by Diane Gaston – Dual Review

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Lord Grantwell’s Christmas Wish by Diane Gaston – Dual Review

 

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Description:
He wished to never see her again

Now he wishes she’ll stay…

Lord Grantwell hasn’t seen Lillian Pearson since she betrayed him years ago. So when she arrives on his doorstep looking for sanctuary, he’s not inclined to offer it! But when the two orphaned children in his care ask if she can stay for Christmas, how can he refuse? Grant and Lillian discover an intense attraction still simmers between them, and Grant starts to wonder if he has done her a grave injustice…

 

Barb’s Review:  Lord Grantwell’s Christmas Wish by Diane Gaston is a stand-alone historical novel.  We meet our hero, Lord Grantwell (Grant) from the start, as he watches the snow build up outside his mansion. With the death of his brother, Grant is now the Viscount, and just recently been saddled with two young children (William and Anna) that belonged to his brother’s wife from a previous marriage.   Grant is in the process of getting a governess for the children, and is surprised when he is told that someone just arrived to ask about the position.

Grant is shocked to see Lillian Pearson, our heroine, who arrives to ask for help; he tries to send her away, as he feels she betrayed him years before.  But with the weather so bad, and his need for a governess, Grant agrees that she can stay until Christmas.  He learns from Lillian that she is on the run, being falsely accused of killing her husband, and if they find her, they will take her back to hang her.

Lillian takes over the care of William and Anna, and slowly they begin to trust her, and become very close.  Grant watches how well she is with the children, an also feels the old attraction for her; but he has not forgotten her betrayal, even though she insists she is innocent.

I loved the children, and how Lillian was so great with them.  With Christmas coming closer, the planning to make presents, decorate, food for the holiday was fun to watch, with the entire staff also taking part.  Most of all, we watch and see how Grant also begins to help Lillian and children, which was very sweet and well done.  Grant and Lillian finally succumb to their relationship from the old days, and despite his anger of the past, he knows he still has feelings for her. Will Grant allow himself to have Lillian stay and forgive her?

What follows is a heartwarming and fun story that becomes suspenseful as we reach the final ¼ of the book.  Lillian will find herself in a bad situation when she is discovered, and her life on the line.  Will Grant allow them to take Lillian away or find out what is the real truth. It was very exciting and tense.

Lord Grantwell’s Christmas Wish was a wonderful sweet story, with two precious kids, and a couple that were destined to be together. I really enjoyed this story, as it kept me glued to the book.   I suggest you read Lord Grantwell’s Christmas Wish, which was very well written by Diane Gaston.


Vickie’s Review: Lord Grantwell’s Christmas Wish begins with Lord John Grantwell, known as Grant to his friends, pondering the fact that he was now Viscount Grantwell.  The title had been inherited by his brother, but he and his wife had been killed in an accident.  Unbeknownst to Grant, his sister-in-law had two children (from a previous relationship) whom he had known nothing about.  The children had been stashed away with their grandfather and upon his death, the children were brought to Grant.  He had no idea how to raise children and had turned their care over to one of the maids.

Grant’s butler enters the room to tell him that someone is here about the governess position for the children, and he tells him to show her in.  However, Grant was not in the least prepared to face the woman who waltzed into his study.  It was a person with whom he had had a passionate relationship with long ago only to have her betray him……Lillian Pearson. 

When Lillian tells Grant that she needs his help and a place to stay, his first inclination is to tell her no.  With the snowstorm raging outside, he thinks better of it and has her take care of the children until he can hire a proper governess and the roads become passable.  Lillian is immediately taken with the children, as they are with her.

It doesn’t take long for Grant and Lillian to realize that the children have only truly ever had each other, and they were desperate for a family to love them and who doesn’t hide them from visitors.  It also doesn’t take them long to realize that the feelings they once held for each other have never really gone away.

As those who are chasing Lillian make themselves known, Grant finds himself wondering if he had it wrong all along and Lillian was telling the truth about never having betrayed him.  He also finds himself wondering what he has wished for is right in front of him.

Lord Grantwell’s Christmas Wish is a wonderfully written story.  The characters are well written and the worldbuilding pulls you in immediately.  Lillian and Grant’s chemistry is palpable from their first encounter, which, for me, is rare these days.  Their backstory is told in a way that isn’t repetitive and gives you just enough so that it adds to their chemistry instead of detracting from it.  The secondary characters are also written well, however, I wish that I had more information about the children’s background.  For me, there is no greater praise than when you can “see” the snow and “smell” the fire in the hearth while you’re reading.  This story does just that.  If you’re a fan of the genre, and even if you’re not, this one will pull you in from the first words.  Well done, Diane Gaston!  Very, very well done!

 

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The Adversary by Thea Harrison – Dual Review

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The Adversary by Thea Harrison – Dual Review

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Description:
When Dragos and Pia move to the Other land of Rhyacia, they hope starting a new life will bring safety and freedom to their family, especially their young baby, Niall. And at first their new home seems perfect… but looks are deceiving.

Beneath Rhyacia’s idyllic façade an ancient, malevolent force lurks, waiting for the right opportunity to break free of its cage. When that opportunity comes, it strikes with devastating accuracy.

While Dragos has never backed down from a fight, he’s also never encountered an enemy like this one before. How can he fight a foe who doesn’t have a body? A foe who can invade and turn his own mind against him?

How can Dragos protect his family, when at any moment one of them may become the enemy?

As Dragos and Pia race against time to fight this unseen menace, they must also acknowledge a terrifying truth—when anyone can become the enemy, no one can be trusted.

An adversary who can trap the dragon poses a threat to everyone in Rhyacia, and that means no one is safe…

•••••••••

Barb’s Review:

The Adversary by Thea Harrison is the 2nd and final book in The Chronicles of Rhyacia.  The Adversary is a 2-book arc that is part of her wonderful Elder Races series.  The story is focused on our favorite couple, Dragos and Pia, and picks up immediately after the last book (The Unseen) left off.

We left off a cliffhanger, as Dragos was possessed by a malevolent being, who takes over his body and mind. Pia calls in all the Sentinels to help fight this new enemy.  She does get a brief glimpse of Dragos telling her to do whatever is necessary to try and stop this dangerous adversary; though Dragos is ultra-powerful, he has been unable thus far to find a way to take control back. 

Pia gives orders to all the Sentinels to hurt this new enemy, in hope to get the entity to leave Dragos’s body.   She was simply amazing, fighting off her fears, and stress, and using everyone to bring back Dragos; proving herself over and over that she was also a strong leader, and the perfect mate to Dragos.

We got to see Dragos fight this possession, as he uses all his knowledge, power, and even magic/spells to stop this takeover. It is a race against time to save Dragos; and just when you think all is well; they learn quickly that this evil being can move into someone else.  How can they stop this unseen being?

What follows is an exciting, riveting, non-stop action filled thriller, with a few twists along the way. I do not want to tell too much more, as you need to read this book, without spoilers.  I absolutely loved seeing all of our favorites again, which included Liam, Rune, Graydon, Eva, Aryal, Carling, Khalik, Grace, Bel, Morgan LeFey, baby Niall and Skeeter (dog). 

Dragos and Pia are such an amazing couple, who are one of the best in the literary world.  I never tire of seeing them in new stories.   The Adversary was a wonderful conclusion to this arc, and so very well written by Thea Harrison. If you are a fan of the Elder Races series, this is a must read. 

 

Sandy’s Reviews:

THE ADVERSARY is the second novella in Thea Harrison’s contemporary, adult ELDER RACES paranormal/ fantasy romance duet focusing on the former leader of the Wyr demes new in New York, Drago Cuelebre, and his mate Pia Giovanni. THE ADVERSARY should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up after the events and cliff hanger of book one THE UNSEEN.

SOME BACKGROUND: Dragos and Pia, along with 20,000 members of the supernatural Wyr leave New York to begin a new life in the Other land known as Rhycia but not all goes according to plan when an unseen force begins to cause a disturbance within the new society-misplaced items, collapsing buildings, and taking control over the mind, body and soul of our story line hero.

NOTE: If you have not read THE UNSEEN, there may be spoilers in my review. The author had plans to write a four-part novella series but at this time, I am unsure as to the number of instalments. Thea Harrison has left THE ADVERSARY open ended, laying the groundwork for future story lines.

Told from third person perspective (Pia) THE ADVERSARY focuses on the fight to ‘free’ Dragos from an ‘unseen adversary’. Dragos is no longer himself, in fact, he is often someone else. Struggling to free her mate from an ancient enemy, Pia and the Wyr, must formulate a plan in an effort to release the ‘unseen’ from her mate’s body but once released, the ‘unseen’ needs another host, and Pia and Dragos find themselves, once again, facing the prospect of losing someone they love. From Azreal, the angel of death, to the Seraphim, Dragos and Pia must accept that life and death are not theirs to control.

THE ADVERSARY is a story of family and friendships, power and control, loss, love, desperation and revenge. Thea Harrison pulls the reader into an action packed, emotional and intense tale of magic and the supernatural, of other worlds and the paranormal, of the power of love for mate and child. The premise is strong and impassioned; the characters are numerous, familiar and charismatic; the romance is magical-the love is palpable.

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Witches Get Stitches (Stay a Spell) by Juliette Cross-dual review

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Witches Get Stitches (Stay a Spell) by Juliette Cross-dual review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 20,2021

Violet Savoie has a plan. A dream, rather. To open her own tattoo shop, which caters to supernaturals in need of permanent charms. As a powerful Seer, she has the potent magic to cast every kind of spell. Except the kind to give werewolves control over their beastly side. And her business partner Nico needs help in the worst kind of way.

Nico Cruz has a secret. A motive, rather. To subtly stalk and seduce Violet until she finally recognizes they are fated to be together. Ever since their heated encounter in Austin on New Year’s Eve two years earlier, he’s been dying to get his hands—and his tongue—back on her body. He knows a woman like Violet can’t be courted in the usual way. Luckily, Nico has no scruples about misbehaving to get what he wants.

But when his former pack roams into town, and an old friend is far too interested in Violet, his focus shifts to the threat venturing into his territory. Nico may come across as the quiet, broody one, but the intruders are about to regret stepping foot in New Orleans. And when Violet goes missing, no charm or spell can keep Nico’s wolf at bay.

•••••••

Sandy’s Review

WITCHES GET STITCHES is the third instalment in Juliette Cross’ contemporary, adult STAY A SPELL paranormal, romance series focusing on the Savoie sisters of New Orleans, Louisiana. This is witch /seer/tattoo artist Violet Savoie, and werewolf shifter/musician/business owner Nico Cruz’s story line. WITCHES GET STITCHES can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but for back story and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order.

SOME BACKGROUND: Hundreds of years earlier, a witch placed a curse on a man who would become the first werewolf. Fast forward to present day, wherein most of the supernatural community believes the werewolves are the lowest of the low, discriminating against an entire species.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Nico and Violet) WITCHES GET STITCHES follows the building romance and relationship between one-hundred and three year old werewolf Nico Cruz, and witch /seer Violet Savoie. Nico Cruz’s inner wolf knows Violet Savoie is their mate but Violet is a Tarot reader, and her cards revealed nothing but death and darkness for our story line couple, so our heroine kept Nico in the friend zone for a couple more years. Moving to New Orleans, and investing in Violet’s tattoo business brought Nico up close and personal with the woman that called to his heart but Nico’s former wolf pack, The Blood Moon Pack, needs something from our story line heroine, and Nico’s wolf is about to lose his control. What ensues is the slow building romance and relationship between Nico and Violet, and the potential fall-out as the history between the werewolves, and the other supernatural creatures is about to take center stage.

Violet Savoie believes she and Nico are destined to die. Her Tarot readings reveal nothing but darkness and doom for our storyline couple, therefore Violet keeps her distance from the man that stirs something deep within but Nico’s former Pack wants something from our heroine, something she has yet to develop or use. Nico Cruz wants nothing more than to claim Violet as his fated mate but Violet keeps her heart walled to the man with whom she will fall in love.

The relationship between Violet and Nico is a friends to lovers, workplace romance between two people fated by DNA and time. Violet and Nico’s jealousy of others proves that each wants what the other one is offering but Nico has yet to prove that he is worthy of our heroine’s love. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate and intense but I dislike the use of a certain four-letter word.

Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of supernatural, magical and colorful secondary and supporting characters including Isadora’s sisters Evie and Mateo (Wolf Gone Wild #1), Devraj and Isadora (Don’t Hex and Drive #1) Jules, Clara, Livvy, Tia; grim reapers alka Grims Henry, Gareth, and Sean Blackwater; tattooists Lindsey Farmer, warlock Tom Bounyasang, and Zaire; ancient vampire and New Orleans’ overlord Ruben Dubois; Blood Moon Pack wolves Shane, Rhett and Ty; and humans and bartenders JJ and Charlie, who work for Violet at the family owned bar, The Cauldron.

WITCHES GET STITCHES is another story of family, friendships, relationships and love; of desperation and power, magic and control. The premise is exciting and entertaining; the romance is provocative and seductive- the sexual chemistry if palpable; the characters are sassy, energetic and often fun. WITCHES GET STITCHES is a wonderful, quirky, and delightful addition to Juliette Cross’ STAY A SPELL paranormal series.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Wolf Gone Wild
Don’t Hex and Drive

Barb’s Review
Witches Get Stitches by Juliette Cross is the 3rd book in her fantastic Stay a Spell series. I loved the first two books in this series, and loved this one too.  Juliette Cross always gives us wonderful fun steamy romances, with a supernatural element. 

Witches Get Stitches focuses on Violet, who is one of the Savoie sisters, with Violet being a very powerful witch and seer. Violet is determined to open her own tattoo parlor for supernaturals, and she has the potent magic to cast spells. Two years ago in Texas, Violent met Nico Cruz, a werewolf and they had a very passionate encounter, but then she left to go back home to New Orleans. 

Nico could not get Violet out of his mind, and decides to find her, and eventually he becomes her partner at the Tattoo parlor, as they become best friends. Nico wants to win her over and become his lover, but Violet (erroneously reading her tarot cards that they don’t match) just wants to be friends. All Violet’s family and friends can see how Nico cares strongly about her, except Violet.  But soon that will change and their relationship turns into a wild steamy swoony romance, with their chemistry off the wall; and Nico’s wolf wants him to bond with her. One night at the bar, Nico spots one of his old pack, and knew there was going to be trouble. Nico also started to become jealous of all the men flirting with Violet, but soon she will realize that Nico is the love of her life, and the bond between them forms.  

Violet is determined to create a special tattoo spell that will give werewolves the ability to control their beast, and keep their calm.  He asks his friends to keep an eye out for Violet and her sisters, as he worries why the pack was here.  When Violet gets kidnapped, Nico knows his ex-pack wants the charmed tattoo, but little does he know that Violet is a very powerful witch, who can handle herself.

What follows is a fun, romantic, sexy and exciting story that had a bit of mystery, with a fantastic group of characters that Juliette always seems to give us. I loved seeing all the sisters, as well as Mateo and Evie; Isadora and Devraj, and other possible mates for the rest of the girls.  I look forward to learning more about the Grim, and what they can do.

Witches Get Stitches was a fun, magical and sexy romance in an amazing world with witches, werewolves, vampires and grims; not to mention written so very well by Juliette Cross. If you enjoy a fun romance, exciting action, great secondary characters, and a couple that has great chemistry; you need to read this book.   I look forward to read the remaining Savoie sisters’ stories.

Juliette calls lush, moss-laden Louisiana home where the landscape curls into her imagination, creating mystical settings for her stories. She has a B.A. in creative writing from Louisiana State University, a M.Ed. in gifted education, and was privileged to study under the award-winning author Ernest J. Gaines in grad school. Her love of mythology, legends, and art serve as constant inspiration for her works. From the moment she read JANE EYRE as a teenager, she fell in love with the Gothic romance–brooding characters, mysterious settings, persevering heroines, and dark, sexy heroes. Even then, she not only longed to read more novels set in Gothic worlds, she wanted to create her own.

Juliette is a multi-published author, including her Nightwing series with Kensington Publishing and The Vessel Trilogy with Samhain Publishing.

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Murder at Sunrise Lake by Christine Feehan -Dual Review & Excerpt

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Murder at Sunrise Lake by Christine Feehan – Dual Review

 

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Description:
It starts in her dreams. Hideous flashes from a nightmare only she can stop. Images of a murderer stalking the ones she cares about most…

Stella Harrison thought she got away from the traumas of her past. Running the Sunrise Lake resort high in the Sierra Nevada mountains has brought her peace, even though she doesn’t truly share her quiet life with anyone. Not even Sam, the hired handyman that notices everything and always seems to know exactly what she needs.

Stella doesn’t know anything about Sam’s past, but somehow over the last two years his slow, steady presence has slipped past her defenses. Still, she knows she can’t tell him about her recent premonitions. So far there’s been no murder. No body. No way to prove what’s about to happen without destroying the life she’s built for herself.

But a killer is out there. And Stella knows that this time she’ll do whatever it takes to stop him.

 

 

Barb’s Review:
Murder at Sunrise Lake by Christine Feehan is a different kind of story that we are not used to from her, being a mystery thriller, with some paranormal element. Stella Harrison, our heroine, runs a successful resort at Sunrise Lake in the small cozy Sierra Nevada mountains.  Stella suffered nightmares as a child, giving her visions of a murder about to happen, which turned out to be her father being a serial killer.  After a couple times, the visions stopped until she was a teenager, and it started again, until the murderer was found.  Moving to the mountains brought her peace and quiet, as well as happiness for years; she became a loyal mainstay to the locals.  Stella also had a great group of female friends, who came to love their small town and each other.

After so many years, Stella begins to have the nightmares again, which she keeps a secret from everyone. Sam, who works for Stella, discovers about her nightmares, and not only is he a handyman, but he also becomes her protector; as he has over the two-year period of working at the resort, and is slowly falling for her.  Stella has become very comfortable and safe with Sam, and she also finds herself strongly attracted to him.  Sam is an ex-military, whose background is working for the government when needed, and uses his expertise to help Stella try to decipher the clues in her nightmares. One thing they both realize, is her nightmares are based on someone she knows or has touched; like her father.  Sam was a wonderful hero, though he was quiet and stayed mostly in the background among other people, his devotion and protector to Stella was amazing.   I also loved Stella’s dog, Bailey, who was not only wonderful, but also very protective.

What follows an exciting suspenseful mystery, with both Sam and Stella working together to try to find the killer before they kill again, knowing that they are getting closer and the murderer may just be targeting Stella.   What I loved about this story was the amazing wonderful friends that all came to this small town at various times, and bonded together.  Stella surrounded herself with women who were equally smart, savvy, and strong; Raine, Zahra, Harlow, Vienna, Shabina.   It was great to spend time with them all whether at the bar, or at each other’s homes; with each having their own past issues, giving their own perspective, and also trying to help Stella.

Murder at Sunrise Lake was a very good murder mystery, filled with action & suspense, as well as a slight paranormal element. I will say that there were times the story slowed down, maybe eliminating some of the extra non-essential details.  Overall, this was a great story, with a terrific couple, fantastic friends and other secondary characters. I wholly suggest you read Christine Feehan’s foray into the murder mystery genre.

 

Sandy’s Review:

MURDER AT SUNRISE LAKE by Christine Feehan is a contemporary, adult, romantic, suspense, slightly paranormal, thriller focusing on vacation resort manager Stella Harrison, and groundskeeper Sam Rossi.

WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from third person perspective MURDER AT SUNRISE LAKE follows the search for a serial killer in the fictional resort town of Knightly, on Sunrise Lake in the Sierra Nevadas. Stella Harrison has future sight; a precognitive ability of foreknowledge. In the days before a serial killer takes down his next victim, Stella’s nightmares worsen to reveal the probable location and method of each of his kills but Stella’s abilities are also tied to a horrific childhood wherein she had personal knowledge of the kind of monster that was currently taking down the people in her beloved town. Always at her side, Sam Rossi, a man whose past is awash in government secrets and military assignments, ensures that our heroine is always protected and there whenever Stella’s nightmares and dreams reveal a little more about another kill. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Stella and Sam, as our couple begin to amass a series of clues that quite possibly points to one of their own.

We are introduced to a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including a few ‘Mafia’ members that may or may not have a future story line: nurse/photographer Harlow Frye; café owner Shabina Foster; computer IT expert and contracted government employee Raine O’Mallory; surgican nurse Vienna Mortenson; nurse Zahra Metcalf; Dr. Denver Dawson; Deputy Sheriff Griffen Cauldry; Sam’s father Don Marco Rossi, and underboss Lucio Vitale. There is definitely a prior history between Lucio and Raine.

MURDER AT SUNRISE LAKE is a character driven, complex and detailed story wherein the author introduces numerous characters whose backgrounds and histories are heart breaking, painful and sad. From our story line couple, to most of their friends, each has a story that would break all but the strongest. Christine Feehan pulls the reader into an intriguing, suspense-filled and haunting story of obsession and power, vengeance and betrayal, murder and hate.

For fans of Christine Feehan, MURDER AT SUNRISE LAKE is an about-face: there are no erotic $ex scenes, everything fades to black or is mostly implied. There were a few awkward moments of the women acting a little TSTL (too stupid to live) but thankfully smarter heads, or the author, prevailed. I am not sure if the author has plans for future instalments but there are several characters with stories to tell.

 


 

As a rule, Stella knew everything there was to know about her employees, but not Sam. When she’d asked him to work for her, he had been a little reluctant. In the end, he had said he’d work for cash only. Under the table. She didn’t usually go for that. She kept everything strictly legal, but she was desperate for a really good worker who knew the kinds of things Sam knew. At the time, nearly every cabin needed renovations. Electricity, plumbing, walls crumbling. So much work. Motors on the boats. She needed him more than he needed her. She’d hired him thinking it would be for a short period of time. That short period had turned into over two years.
She stayed silent. Took another drink of coffee. Kept looking at the lake. What was there to say that didn’t make her look as if she were losing her mind? Nothing. There was nothing she could say. Even if she revealed her past, blew her carefully constructed lie of a life, what would be the point? There was no proof, and she doubted if she could get any proof that accidents weren’t going to be accidents and a serial killer was on the loose. As of that moment, even the fisherman hadn’t been found dead because no crime had been committed—yet. The killer would strike in two days. She needed to drive around the lake and look for the location.
“Been here over two years now, Stella. You never once locked that door. You don’t snap at the workers, especially if they make a mistake. That’s not your way.”
She didn’t look at him again. Instead, she kept her eyes on the lake. The tranquil lake that was so deep and could hold countless bodies if someone weighed them down. Above the lake the mountains rose with all the beautiful trees. So many places to bury bodies no one would ever find. Hot springs. Some of the hot springs were hot enough to decompose a body.
Without thinking, she pressed her fingers to her mouth the way she’d done when she was a child to keep from blurting out anything she shouldn’t say. A habit. A bad habit she’d worked to get over, and now it was back. Just that fast. Her fingers trembled and she wanted to sit on them. She hoped he didn’t notice, but he saw everything. She knew he did. Sam was that type of man. She dropped her hand back into Bailey’s fur. Buried her shaking fingers deep.
“Satine, you want help, I’m right here, but you gotta talk. Use your words, woman.”
“Did I really do that? Snap at someone because they made a mistake?” She did turn her head and look at him then. “Did I do that to you, Sam?”
His tough features softened for just a moment. Those dark eyes of his turned almost velvet, drifting over her. Unsettling her. “No, it was Bernice at the boat rentals the other day.”
Stella pressed the heel of her hand to her forehead. She had done that. Not yelled. But definitely been snippy. Okay. More than snippy. She was not a boss to be snippy or short with her employees. Bernice Fulton was older and had worked for her for over five years. She would take it to heart. “I’ll talk to her.”
That day was unusually hot when everyone had been expecting the cooler fall weather. Because it was, those staying in the resort had rushed to rent the boats, wanting to be out on the lake. Unfortunately, that included people who didn’t have the least idea how to run a boat, or dock one. Both Sam and Stella spent the better part of the evening rescuing very drunk parties of four, six and couples, as well as a single mom and her two very young children, who, thank heavens, were wearing life vests.
Fishermen had been complaining all day, a steady stream of grouchy, irritable or downright furious, mostly men acting superior, although most of them knew her now. They’d come to respect her over the years. Still, they weren’t immune to the unexpected high temperatures. Humidity when there was usually dry heat, and all the crazy tourists who didn’t have the first clue about how to navigate boats on the lake. Nor did those tourists even seem to have any manners when it came to sharing the lake with those fishing.
Stella had been yelled at, called names and insulted many times, mostly in reference to her IQ and ability to run a fishing camp—which Sunrise Lake was not, but she didn’t correct anyone.

From MURDER AT SUNRISE LAKE published by arrangement with Berkley, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC. Copyright © 2021 by Christine Feehan.

 


Christine Feehan is a #1 New York Times bestselling author multiple times over with her portfolio including over 70 published novels, including five series; Dark Series, Ghostwalker Series, Leopard Series, Drake Sisters Series, the Sisters of the Heart Series and Torpedo Ink. All of her series have hit the #1 spot on the New York Times bestselling list as well. Her debut novel Dark Prince received 3 of the 9 Paranormal Excellence Awards in Romantic Literature (PEARL) in 1999. Since then she has been published by various publishing houses including Leisure Books, Pocket Books, and currently is writing for Berkley/Jove. She also has earned 7 more PEARL awards since Dark Prince.

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