Tag Archives: Julie B

Once Upon a Midnight Dream by Collette Cameron-review

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Once Upon a Midnight Dream (Chronicles of the Westbrook Brides 10) by Collette Cameron -review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 1, 2025

His forgotten past might shatter her future…

Captain Layton Westbrook has lost everything—his identity, his past, and the life he once knew. Left battered and near death after a violent attack, he awakens in a quiet countryside school, his mind a blank slate. Haunted by fragmented memories and a single vow never to trust again, Layton finds himself drawn to the serene presence of the woman who saved him. But shadows from his past are closing in, and danger may strike before he can uncover the truth.

Lillibet Granger has dedicated her life to Kelston Hall Children’s School, nurturing orphans with the love she never knew. As the illegitimate daughter of a viscount’s sister, her position is precarious, but her compassion and quiet strength have earned her respect. When she finds an injured man on the school grounds, her instincts urge caution, but his vulnerability stirs something deeper. Yet Lilly knows better than to dream of love—a plain, practical woman like her has no place in a hero’s world.

As Layton’s memories begin to surface, so do threats that could destroy everything Lilly holds dear. The future of her beloved school hangs by a thread, and Layton’s hidden identity could be the key to saving it—or the cause of its downfall. In a world where trust is fragile and love demands the ultimate risk, will they defy the odds and seize a second chance at happiness? Or will the secrets they hold tear them apart forever?

•••••••

REVIEW: Waking up with no memory Captain Layton Westbrook vows to regain his memory and seek revenge on those who left his broken and bruised! He seeks the truth, and until that day, he vows never to trust a single soul, but he doesn’t count on falling for his beguiling rescuer…..

Lillibet Granger runs an orphanage, it’s where she has been for most of her life! Becoming headmistress seemed like her life’s work. Happy to help the children who come to the orphanage, Lillibet gives them love and guidance that she never had.

It’s the 10th book in this series, no need to read previous books to enjoy this one. This is a sweet/clean romance. What it lacks in romance it more than makes up for in story, the action/mystery and suspense will have you wanting to read until the dramatic conclusion.

A really well written story, the characters at first seem a little stilted and stiff, but once we get past the first chapter they begin to warm to one another. And the story began its twists and turns.

But there is a secret that once discovered could end this budding romance! As his memory begins to return, could our hero be the savior or the ruination of Kelston Hall Children’s School?

Can the final Westbrook find love in this quiet little school? Or will his past shatter the dreams both characters have for one another?

There are scenes that will stay with me for a while, including the orchard scene and the epilogue.

It’s a book I’ll happily recommend time and again.

The life/laughter/pain and joy throughout this book kept me spellbound.

Previous reviews

The Wallflowers’s Midnight Waltz
Memories Made at Midnight

Copy supplied for review

🦋 Reviewed by Julie B

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The Highlander Burns for Vengeance by Julie Johnstone-review

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

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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 🦋

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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.

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LORD APPLEBY’S GORGEOUS IMPOSTER by Cerise Deland-review

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

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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 🦋

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

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

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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.

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

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

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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

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

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🏒💜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 /

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Violet Promises (Oil Dukes 1) by Marie Johnston-review

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Violet Promises (Oil Dukes 1) by Marie Johnston-review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 3, 2024

It was supposed to be one night to feel alive after getting out of a dud of a relationship. Now I’m having a baby, and I only have the soon-to-be dad’s first name.

After my breakup, I need to find a job and place to live, but I can’t move into the house my grandma left me unless I’m married. Fortunately, the guy renting the place doesn’t know that, so I stop by and find out if he can move at the end of his lease.

Only when the door opens, it’s him. My one-night stand. I do the only reasonable thing possible. I tell him we’re going to have a baby and promptly puke over the railing of the porch. Next thing I know, I’m on his couch, and he’s demanding a paternity test.

Except he doesn’t just want the test. He wants to make sure I don’t tamper with the results. He doesn’t believe me. Apparently showing up jobless and homeless to persuade him to move doesn’t make me trustworthy. Guess I’m not the only one with a dating history that leaves me jaded.

•••••••••

REVIEW: First book in a new series, although one of the characters did appear in a previous book, (Endless Memory) and I did hold out hope that they would get a book. Then I realised it also contains a Barron, so it’s a double sided treat. (Oil Barron Series)

Evander Barron, what a grump! But as the book progresses, I understood where he was coming from. But it took a while for him to defrost towards Violet.

Violet Duke is looking for a new start after a breakup. So she’s hoping that a move to be nearer her sister will improve her chances. It also helps that she has a home in Coal, and that’s where she’s going to start her new life…..

Stipulations for inheriting the home her grandma had left her, had been to be married before she could live or sell the house. And the executor of the will is an aunt who won’t back down (I think she likes to play matchmaker.)

A one night stand that ends up being more! Violet is pregnant, and needs a place to stay. Can you imagine her surprise to find the lodger she needs to leave is none other than the man she slept with!

Think this is a definite “he falls first” book.

I love the way this author brings her characters to life. And the world they inhabit is just great. Described beautifully, you can almost imagine being there.

Can trust come? Or will Evander always distrust Violet? She lied about wanting the house, so why should he trust her?

Can they really coparent? Or will they raise the child separately?

And when doubt raises its ugly head, will they be able to get past it? Or will Violet push away the only man that has truly understood and loved her?

“You’re my world. You’re my beautiful wildflower.”

“Ever since I saw you at the bar that night, I knew you were special.”

“She was mine. I just had to convince her.”

So the rest of the Duke’s will hopefully get a book. And fingers crossed it’s Alder next 🤞

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B🦋

FOLLOW: Goodreads/Website/Facebook/Twitter/Instagram / Bookbub/ Pinterest

Marie Johnston is a RITA® Finalist, and a best-selling and award-winning writer of paranormal and contemporary romance – and an avid reader of them both.

Several years ago, when kids started outnumbering adults in the house, Marie Johnston left her job as a public health microbiologist to stay at home. Settling into working part-time and shuttling kids around gave Marie the opportunity to think about what she wanted to be when she grew up. A die-hard science geek, she explored her previously thought to be non-existent creative side after much time spent making snowman crafts and coloring princesses. Having entertained thoughts of writing a book one day then subsequently deciding it would be too hard, she finally put the figurative pen to paper and began to type – and fell in love with storytelling.

The Sigma Menace is the first series by Marie with Fever Claim being her first book EVER. She is humbled by the fact that people are willing to read to her books and looks forward to keeping readers entertained for many years.

Marie lives with her husband and four kids in the Upper Midwest where the summers are gorgeous, the winters are brutal, and spring and fall are luxuries.

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BEYOND THE WATER’S EDGE by Janine Eaby -review

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BEYOND THE WATER’S EDGE (Beyond the Water’s Edge 1) by Janine Eaby -review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play / Chapters Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 29, 2024

What you don’t know can’t hurt you—at least that’s what people say. Those people have never harbored a secret others would kill for.

Alaira Hughes is preparing to graduate high school, but her once-clear future is changing. When she makes a magical discovery in the woods that seems too good to be true, she’s reluctant to tell her friends. Plagued by realistic nightmares and a cascade of seemingly impossible events, doubts begin to seep in.

When she meets a captivating young man who holds the answers to her mounting questions, a new path is set before her. If she walks away, she may never get the answers she seeks, but if she chooses the new path, she may find more than she expected. She must fight to learn the truth.

And the truth can be deadly.

••••••

REVIEW: Magic/mystery and a budding romance (maybe 😉) what more could you ask for? Young adult read. And a first time author. So congratulations on getting published.

Alaira is ready for the next journey of her life. She’s going to be studying Biology in a university that requires her to stay there. She’s a little sad that her best friend won’t be coming to the same one, but excited about new adventures. But her dreams are plaguing her, she’s not sure what they mean. And now her waking moments are beginning to worry her, is she dreaming these moments, or are they real?

Alaira, I felt was a little naive at the beginning of the book. But I loved how she looked at this new world that she’d discovered. Very wide eyed and full of wonder.

Meeting Enver is a revelation. He assumes she’s aware of what she can do…. When she asks questions, he quickly realises she’s not aware!

There is a key that is needed to travel from one place to another. No key, no travel. Enver has lost his key, he’s also lost most of his memories, and he’s desperate to go home. Can Alaira help? She’s not sure what key she’s looking for, but something in her memories is triggered!! She might have what he’s looking for…..

From there, the book takes you on a fast paced adventure. But with adventure comes danger, and Alaira comes face to face with danger! (And it’s at this point I’m not sure if I trust Enver! 🤔)

We meet new friends, possible allies, and beings Alaira needs to stay clear of! Oh! And apparently Alaira has powers/abilities. 😉 That will only get stronger as time goes by….

I would have liked the appendix that appeared at the end of the book to have been in the front (personal opinion) I did worry that I might have looked at the last page (luckily that didn’t happen)

I’m hoping we get the next book soon as I’m anxious to find out what happens next….

It’s not a cliffhanger, but it does leave it open for the next story.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B 🦋

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