Tag Archives: New Release Reviews 2019

Suddenly Enthroned (The Royals #1) by C.R. Riley-a review

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Suddenly Enthroned (The Royals #1) by C.R. Riley-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 17, 2019

It is a long-standing tradition that a Royal marries the person who was been chosen for them by those that believed they know best. Which would have probably been the case for King Antonio, if he hadn’t become King before he had the chance to do just that.

While he was determined to not wed out of obligation, like those before him had done. He planned to marry for love instead. It had been his intention long before he found himself as King, he had expected to have at least five more years to win that argument with his father. Now he is the first King in the history of his kingdom to be without a Queen.

King Antonio remains unwed for longer than anyone considered acceptable. The reason he is about to allow those who believe it is time to rectify that, attempt to secure him suitable wife. That is until he meets Larkin Cross, an architect who will be traveling to his country to do some historical restoration for his family and country.

Larkin had no idea who Antonio was when she first met him; therefore, she treated him like he was just a man, rather than a King. Something that had never happened to him until that very moment, and it was exactly what he found he liked most about her.

Now Antonio is determined to risk it all for love. He knows it will not be easy; that he will face off with those who believe it is wrong to break tradition. However, Larkin is his only hope to provide him a life that will be unlike any other, giving him the strength to fight for her.

Will love win, or will those powers fighting against him prevail?

•••••••

REVIEW:This is a new series, not sure where this series will take us, but this book tells us about the new king. Antonio thought he had five years to accomplish his tasks, to become a good king and when it was time, to find a wife that will rule by his side to love him for the man, and not the King. But that wasn’t to be, sadly his father died and Antonio became the King.

Larkin loves her job. Restoring historical buildings is her passion.

She was accepted into the master’s program at UIC for architecture. And her love of architecture was born. Larkin has ADHD, (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a condition that includes symptoms such as inattentiveness hyperactivity and impulsiveness.) so learning was always a little difficult, as was her social life, but that never stopped Larkin.

And after the death of her best friend, she was determined to make him proud. Now if she gets this job, it will cement her career.

Antonio knew where he was going, I felt like he had a good head on his shoulders but, to find love instead of obligation? We all know a Prince is suppose to marry for position, so how will Antonio get around it?

Loved most of the secondary characters, love/hate the stepmother, Antonio’s siblings were a lot of fun to read. Larkin I felt made the book, her lack of filter was a breath of fresh air, to say what you feel instead of what your brain says must make for a refreshing change.

But I couldn’t help but feel something was missing. Maybe a little more passion wouldn’t have gone amiss. It felt a little cold.

But I Loved the way Larkin spoke to Antonio, she never treated him any differently, not even after she found out who he was. His musings to himself were a little off putting, but once I’d gotten use to his way of thinking and acting, it made a little more sense.

It read like a movie script rather than a book. Lots of background, lots of history pertaining to the family. The wording felt a little stilted and stiff. Not usually a fan of the characters narrating the story, but I could see where the author was going with it. And why she did it.

I’m hoping the brothers get books.

So will Antonio get his wish? Will he marry for love and not duty? And how will Larkin react once she knows Antonio really is the king of his castle?

It’s a fun read, it’s a short read. And it made a change to read it from the man’s point of view as well as the female’s.

? Reviewed by Julie B

Copy supplied for review

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The One For You (The Ones Who Got Away 4) by Roni Loren-a review

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The One For You (The Ones Who Got Away 4) by Roni Loren-a review

 

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 31, 2019

She got a second chance at life.
Will she take a second chance at love?

Kincaid Breslin wasn’t supposed to survive that fateful night at Long Acre when so many died, including her boyfriend—but survive she did. She doesn’t know why she got that chance, but now she takes life by the horns and doesn’t let anybody stand in her way

Ashton Isaacs was her best friend when disaster struck all those years ago, but he chose to run as far away as he could. Now fate has brought him back to town, and Ash doesn’t know how to cope with his feelings for Kincaid and his grief over their lost friendship. For Ash has been carrying secrets, and he knows that once Kincaid learns the truth, he’ll lose any chance he might have had with the only woman he’s ever loved.

••••••••

REVIEW:THE ONE FOR YOU is the fourth instalment in Roni Loren’s contemporary, adult THE ONES WHO GOT WAY erotic, romance series focusing on the survivors of a mass shooting the night of their senior prom-Finn Dorsey, Olivia Arias, Rebecca Lindt, Taryn Landry, Ashton Isaacs and Kincaid Breslin. This is real estate agent Kincaid Breslin, and writer Ashton Isaacs’ story line. THE ONE FOR YOU can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order, or at the very least book one, for backstory and cohesion as the details about what happened are revealed in THE ONES WHO GOT AWAY.

Told from present day and memories of the past, using several third person perspectives including Ash and Kincaid THE ONE FOR YOU follows the former friends to lover relationship between real estate agent Kincaid Breslin, and writer Ashton Isaacs.

Fourteen years earlier, following the mass shooting at their high school prom, Kincaid would lose her boyfriend Graham Lowell, and Ashton would lose his best friend, and the woman he loved. Grief, guilt and unrequited love played a major role in Ashton Isaacs decision to leave Long Acre to pursue his dream of becoming a writer in New York but Ashton never forgot about the woman who called to his heart. Fast forward to present day, wherein Ashton would return to Long Acre in an effort to rediscover his muse in the wake of finding his fiancé with another man but a return to Long Acre came with too many memories of the past including the woman he still loved. Enter Kincaid Breslin, real estate agent. What ensues is the rebuilding friendship and relationship between Ash and Kincaid, and the potential fall-out when Ashton reveals the truth, as he knows it, about the day everything went to h*ll.

Kincaid Breslin believes she lost her soul mate the night of the Long Acre prom fourteen years earlier but the return of Ashton Isaacs brought back feelings Kincaid struggled to recall. Having both suffered at the hands of emotionally and physically abusive parents, Kincaid and Ashton became one another’s sole support in an effort to survive, one day at a time.

The relationship between Kincaid and Ash is one of former friends to lovers whose lives were torn apart by betrayal and hatred, and one man’s struggle to move on from his past. Kincaid believes Ash is too quick to run but Ash knew to remain in Long Acre, meant the possibility of losing everyone, all over again. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

All of the previous couples plays secondary and supporting roles including Liv and Finn (The Ones Who Got Away #1), Rebecca and Wes (the One you Cant Forget #2 ), Taryn Landry and Shaw Miller (The One You Fight For #3), as well as Graham’s parents Charlie and Grace Lowell.

The world building continues to focus on the struggle to move forward after the devastating mass shooting at the Long Acre High School. Kincaid battles between head and heart fearing the destruction of the memory of the boy she once loved; and Ash knows that the secrets he hides may destroy the woman he loves.

THE ONE FOR YOU is a story of second chances; of forgiveness and love; of friendship, family and moving forward. The premise is heart breaking, engaging and captivating; the romance is seductive and passionate; the characters are colorful, broken, energetic but strong.

Reading order and Previous Reviews
The Ones Who Got Away
The One You Can’t Forget
The One Your Fight For

Copy supplied for by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Roni wrote her first romance novel at age fifteen when she discovered writing about boys was way easier than actually talking to them. Since then, her flirting skills haven’t improved, but she likes to think her storytelling ability has. If she’s not working on her latest sexy story, you can find her cooking, watching reality television, or picking up another hobby she doesn’t need–in other words, procrastinating like a boss. She is a RITA Award winner and a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author.

Places to find Roni Loren:
Site: www.roniloren.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoniLoren
Twitter: https://twitter.com/roniloren
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4877863.Roni_Loren

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The Intended Victim (The Agency #4) by Alexandra Ivy-a review

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THE INTENDED VICTIM (The Agency #4) by Alexandra Ivy-a review

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

About the book: Release Date December 31, 2019

ONCE, SHE GOT AWAY
The body lying on a cold steel slab bears all the hallmarks of the Chicago Butcher. There’s a cruel slash across her throat, deep enough to sever the carotid artery, and a small crescent carved into her right breast. Her delicate features are painfully familiar to Ash Marcel, once a rising star in the Chicago PD. But though the victim resembles his former fiancée, Remi Walsh, he knows it’s not her.

BUT THIS TIME
Though Remi escaped a serial killer five years ago, her father died trying to save her. Grief and guilt caused her to pull away from the man she loved. Now Ash is back in her life, insisting that Remi is still in danger.

IT’S A DEAD END . . .
Someone is targeting women who look just like Remi. With or without a badge, Ash intends to unmask the Butcher. But the killer isn’t playing games any longer. He’s moving in, ready to finish what he started, and prove there’s nothing more terrifying than a killer’s obsession . . .

••••••••

REVIEW: THE INTENDED VICTIM is the fourth instalment in Alexandra Ivy’s contemporary, adult THE AGENCY romantic suspense series. This is former Chicago police detective / college professor Ashland ‘Ash’ Marcel, and youth center counselor Remi Walsh’s story line. THE INTENDED VICTIM can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Remi and Ash) and first person (killer) THE INTENDED VICTIM follows in the wake of the possible return of a serial killer. Five years earlier Remi Walsh was the intended victim of a serial killer known as The Butcher but Remi’s call to her father, police officer Gage Walsh, resulted in the death of her father, and Remi with no memory of what happened that day. Fast forward to the present, wherein a series of murders where all of the victims have been surgically altered to look like Remi Walsh, pull Ash Marcel, Remi’s former fiancé into the investigation. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Ash and Remi, and the potential fall-out as the killer hits too close to home.

Ash Marcel was destroyed the day Remi Walsh walked out of his life but Remi struggled in the aftermath of the death of her father, the attack on her life, and Ash Marcel’s obsession with finding the killer. Ash Marcel had never stopped loving our story line heroine and a change in careers meant pulling away from the life that he loved.

The relationship between Remi and Ash is one of second chances; a rekindling romance between two people torn apart by death and destruction, and brought together by memories from the past. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Remi’s mother Liza, and Ash’s brother Detective Jax Marcel. There is a large list of suspects who are questioned yet remain a person of interest.

THE INTENDED VICTIM is a romantic suspense thriller; a story of betrayal and obsession; family, friends, jealousy and madness. The premise is intriguing and entertaining; the characters are colorful and dynamic; the romance is seductive and captivating.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Pretend You’re Safe
What Are You Afraid Of?
You Will Suffer

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Delivered with a Kiss (Veteran Movers#4) by Marie Harte-a review

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Delivered with a Kiss (Veteran Movers#4) by Marie Harte-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 19, 2019

Will one wrong move

Bring Erin love

With the right guy?

Smith Ramsey knows all about hard knocks. So, when his newest client gets dumped by her boyfriend, he gets her an apartment in his complex. He tries to steer clear of her, having enough troubles of his own. He’s got estranged brothers to deal with on top of learning his mother wasn’t his mother. But he can’t forget pretty Erin Briggs. And soon he’s addicted to more than her cookies…

Erin thought she’d been in love, but now independent and looking at life through clear eyes, she realizes what she felt for her ex in no way compares to what she’s feeling for the tough ex-Marine who picked her up when she was down.

Actions speak louder than words. Smith’s kindness and gentle core lay buried under old hurts. But can he forgive and forget the past to make a future with Erin? And is she making a mistake by trusting in love for the wrong man all over again?

••••••••

REVIEW:DELIVERED WITH A KISS is the fourth and final instalment in Marie Harte’s contemporary, adult VETERAN MOVERS erotic, romance series focusing on the men and women who work for Vets on the Go!-a moving company designed to employ former servicemen. This is Marine Smith Ramsey, and editor/you tube vlogger Erin Briggs’ story line. DELIVERED WITH A KISS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for backstory and history between Smith, and the brothers he never knew.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Erin and Smith) DELIVERED WITH A KISS follows in the wake of Erin Briggs move from Kansas to Seattle, a move to surprise her boyfriend, a man who had moved on with someone else. With no place to go, or help to get her there Erin comes face to face with Vets on the Go mover Smith Ramsey, the man with whom Erin will fall in love. When Smith offers up a solution to her current dilemma, Erin finds herself working part time for an elderly woman whose acerbic and saucy personality hides a heart of gold. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Smith and Erin, and the potential fall-out as Smith’s issues of trust and extreme lack of self-esteem are at odds with his attraction and growing love for Erin Briggs.

Smith Ramsey is the product of an adulterous affair, and only recently discovered that the woman he thought was his mother, was his aunt, and that the man he never knew, fathered other children including our story line hero. Working for Vets on the Go! would place Smith in the direct line of fire with his siblings, siblings he struggled to accept or love. Erin Briggs moved to Seattle in an effort to move on with her life, a life that no longer included her long-distance boyfriend Cody. Meeting Smith Ramsay gave Erin a hope for the future but Smith struggled to accept anyone into his life, including the woman with whom he would fall in love.

The relationship between Smith and Erin is one of immediate attraction but a distinct lack of communication, and issues of self-esteem forced our couple to overthink their friendship, as well as their growing attraction that is constantly sabotaged by Smith’s inability to let go of the past. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense but I dislike the use of a certain four-letter word in my romance story lines, and in this case, the word was used as shock value as the heroine, as well, did not like the use of the word.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including all of the previous story line couples including Smith’s brothers, Cash Griffith and Jordan Fleming (Smooth Moves #2), Reid Griffith and Naomi (The Whole Package #1); and their cousin Evan and Kenzie, and Evan’s mother (Aunt) Jane Griffith; Vets on the Go employees, Hector and Lafayette. We are introduced to Smith and Erin’s landlady Tilly Fine, her nephew Rupert, and friends Willie, firefighter Brad Battle; Erin’s ex-boyfriend Cody and his girlfriend; Smith’s ‘mother’ Margaret Ramsey.

DELIVERED WITH A KISS is a story of family and betrayal; acceptance and moving forward. Marie Harte reveals the man behind the mask of pain that for so long protected Smith from the life he had lived. The premise is emotional and entertaining; the characters are dynamic, broken, fun and forgiving; the romance is seductive and captivating. DELIVERED WITH A KISS answered the reader’s questions about the who, how and why of Smith Ramsay, and revealed the triggers that send a 6’5” Marine into a spiral of low self-esteem and a loss of control.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

The Whole Package
Smooth Moves
Handle With Care

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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GABE AND IAN (Savage Kings MC 11) by Lane Hart & D.B. West-a review

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GABE AND IAN (Savage Kings MC 11) by Lane Hart & D.B. West-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 28, 2019

Gabriel Cross has spent his entire life keeping a secret from his older brother. The tattoo artist all but inked the two words on his flesh, and yet Abe still hasn’t figured it out. Terrified of losing the only family he has left, Gabriel keeps his mouth shut, even though he hates himself for being a coward.

Ian Long loves women. After being locked up for five miserable years, he can’t wait to make up for lost time, all while trying to forget about a certain someone who took care of his needs during weekly visitations. He’s convinced himself that being with Gabriel was a matter of convenience and nothing more.

Gabriel foolishly assumed that his secret affair with Ian would continue once he became a free man. However, Ian doesn’t waste any time hooking up with the first woman he sees at his homecoming party, even doing so right in front of Gabe’s face to prove just how little he meant to him.

Jealous and hurt, Gabe knows it’s time for him to move on. He has to quit waiting for the impossible to happen with Ian and find someone who will give him the unconditional love he craves without having to hide who he is anymore.

But what neither Gabe nor Ian realize is that the woman who comes between them may turn out to be the one who finally brings them together.

This story is for mature readers only and it contains MFM and MM scenes.

••••••••••

REVIEW: GABE AND IAN is the eleventh instalment in Lane Hart and D.B. West’s contemporary, adult SAVAGE KINGS MC erotic, romance series focusing on the members of the Savage Kings MC. This is Savage Kings MC members Ian Long and tattoo artist Gabriel Cross, and para-legal Quincey Cohen’s story line. GABE AND IAN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: GABE AND IAN is a ménage story with scenes of M/M, M/F, MMF and MFM sexual situations that may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from three first person perspectives (Gabe, Ian and Quincey) GABE AND IAN follows the building relationship between Savage Kings MC members Gabriel Cross and Ian Long, and para-legal Quincey Cohen. Quincey Cohen lost her job, her home, and her self-respect, but with the help of her best friend Peyton (Dalton #6) Quincey jumps into a one-night stand with the recently-released from prison Ian Long, a man who struggles with his attraction to club member Gabriel Cross.

Ian Long was serving a five year prison sentence for trafficking and possession of a fire arm but in the last year his most frequent visitor is the man he blamed for his recent incarceration. Gabriel Cross, in an effort to win favor with Ian Long, offers to procure sexual services but found himself the submissive to the man with whom he will fall in love, a man who refuses to admit his attraction to Cross. Upon his release, Ian refuses to acknowledge his sexual relationship with Gabriel Cross, and proceeds to enter into a relationship with Quincey Cohen. What ensues is the building relationship between Gabriel, Ian and Quincey, and the potential fall-out as Quincey offers to step aside so that Ian and Gabriel can pursue a relationship behind closed doors.

Ian Long has never been attracted to men but a year spent with Gabriel Cross down on his knees found Ian jealous and wanting what he could no longer have. Never intending to enter into a long-term relationship Ian jumped head first into a highly sexual and aggressive affair with Quincey Cohen, an affair that soon included Gabriel Cross.

The relationship between Ian, Gabriel and Quincey is fraught with uncomfortable situations for everyone concerned. Ian refuses to admit his attraction to Gabe, and Quincey finds herself caught between two men who struggle in the face of potential problems with the Savage Kings MC. Jealousy, envy, secrets and lies force Gabe to come out to the Savage Kings MC but in doing so reveals his attraction to a man who would rather remain closeted in an effort to save face. The $ex scenes are energetic, aggressive, forceful and hot.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and dynamic secondary and supporting characters including most of the Savage Kings MC. Fearing rejection by his brother Abe, Gabriel Cross would keep his secret until he could no longer deny his attraction to Ian Long.

GABE AND IAN is a story of family, friendship, attraction and love. There is no outside conflict except for the fear of losing the friendship and respect of their fellow MC members. The premise is strong and heart breaking; the romance is raw and gritty; the characters are passionate but challenging.

Reading order and Previous Reviews
Chase
Abe
Torin
War
Maddox
Kings Road (prequel)
Dalton
Reece
Miles
Sax
Cooper

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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King of Lincoln Park by Martha Kennerson-a review

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KING OF LINCOLN PARK (Kings of the Castle #7) by Martha Kennerson-a review

ebook ONLY 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

Grant Khambrel, a sexy, successful architect, worked hard to build a thriving business only to have it threatened by mistake that someone has laid at his door. The man who raised Grant after his parents died, made arrangements for Grant to receive the funds necessary to start a lucrative construction company. Soon Grant learns the money came from questionable means with strings attached; strings that took him years to cut and bury. After winning a multi-million dollar contract to renovate the United Center in Chicago, his bid comes under fire when rumors of improper business ethics arise. Grant is blackmailed by a powerful local politician for access and control of something money can’t buy, but will cost him everything if he gives in.

Autumn Knight, the beautiful Administrative Director of the United Center, grew up around both sides of Chicago politics. Her father, a local real estate tycoon and powerful Alderman, believes he should financially benefit from the good works he provides to his community. Autumn loves her father, but disagrees with how he operates and refuses to follow his path. Her career requires interaction with the new architect selected by her father’s committee. When Grant and Autumn meet, their chemistry is overwhelming, and they’re eager to explore their romantic possibilities. Unfortunately, lies and secrets threaten the future they both believe is possible.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: KING OF LINCOLN PARK by Martha Kennerson is the seventh instalment in the multi-author / multi-cultural KINGS OF THE CASTLE romantic, suspense series focusing on nine ‘brothers’ from the streets of Chicago (Vikkas, Reno, Shaz, Jai, Daron, Kaleb, Grant, Dro and Dwayne) mentored and taught by the mysterious Khalil Germaine at the exclusive Macro International Magnet School in Chicago. This is King of Lincoln Park, architect Grant Khambrel, and twenty-eight year old, administrative director of the United Center Autumn Knight’s story line. KING OF LINCOLN PARK can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: For fans of Martha Kennerson, there is a cross-over with the characters Meeks Montgomery and the Blake Sisters from the author’s Protecting the Heiress, Seducing the Heiress, and Tempting the Heiress.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Grant and Autumn) KING OF LINCOLN PARK follows architect Grant Khambrel in the wake of winning the bid to renovate and upgrade the United Center, a win that places Grant in the direct line of fire when a dirty alderman, and his goons, threaten the vendors Grant is hoping to hire. Enter Autumn Knight, the administrative director of the United Center, as well as the daughter of the James Knight, the alderman in question. As Grant embarks on hiring his team, the Kings will come under a different kind of threat, when the historical society demands control of the Castle.

Autumn Knight is aware of her father’s questionable ethics but is shocked to learn, to what depths, he is willing to secure his power. From threatening would-be admirers or choosing the men with whom Autumn can date, Alderman James Knight is a force to be reckoned, a force that stands in the way of Grant current plans.

The relationship between Grant and Autumn is one of instant attraction but an attraction tempered by issues of trust, and Alderman Knight’s unethical control. Grant knows that Autumn is his happily ever after but Autumn has yet to realize to what depth her father controls everything he touches. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

Several of the Kings of the Castle play secondary and supporting roles including Daron and Jai, and several of the young Knights (Hiram , Falcon, Michael, Ryan, Kevin). We are introduced to Grant’s uncle Ben and his partner Sam, Autumn’s administrative assistant Jenna Lowe, community activist Mark Nadler, Alderman James Knight and his right hand man Richmond Kane, as well as security specialist Meeks Montgomery.

KING OF LINCOLN PARK is a fast paced, intriguing and revealing story line wherein not only does Grant struggle to regain control but the Castle, itself, is threatened by an outside source. The premise is engaging and captivating; the romance is seductive and intense; the characters are colorful and energetic. KING OF LINCOLN PARK is a wonderful addition to the Kings of the Castle series.

Previous reviews and reading order
KINGS OF THE CASTLE
King of Chatham
King of Evanston
King of Devon
King of Morgan Park
King of South Shore
King of Lincoln Park
King of Hyde Park
King of Lawndale

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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King of Morgan Park by Karen Bradley/King of South Shore by MarZeScott

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King of Morgan Park by Karen Bradley/ King of South Shore by MarZe Scott-reviews

KING OF MORGAN PARK
(Kings of the Castle #5)
by Karen D. Bradley
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic, suspense

ebook ONLY 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 10, 2019

Two things threaten to destroy several areas of Daron Kincaid’s life—the tracking device he developed to locate victims of sex trafficking and an inherited membership in a mysterious outfit called The Castle. The new developments set the stage to dismantle the relationship with Cameron, the woman he loves, as well as the new life he’s building outside of an Interpol and FBI sting that brought down his former enemies. Coming out of the shadows could have dangerous consequences that affect everyone around him.

Marquise Sinclair, a crime boss over an international theft ring, is determined to take Daron’s position in the Castle by leveraging Cameron’s life against a project worth billions. Unfortunately, he is unaware that his lovely target was fiercely trained to make men weak or put them on the wrong side of the grave. The secrets Daron keeps from Cameron and his inner circle only complicates an already tumultuous situation that wasn’t of his own making.

Can Daron take on Marquise, manage his secrets and loyalty to the Castle without permanently losing the woman he loves??

••••••••••••

REVIEW: KING OF MORGAN PARK by Karen D Bradley is the fifth instalment in the multi-authored/ multi-cultural KINGS OF THE CASTLE romantic suspense series focusing on nine ‘brothers’ from the streets of Chicago (Vikkas, Reno, Shaz, Jai, Daron, Kaleb, Grant, Dro and Dwayne) mentored and taught by the mysterious Khalil Germaine at the exclusive Macro International Magnet School in Chicago. This is King of Morgan Park tech whiz Daron Kincaid, and Cameron Stone’s story line. KING OF MORGAN PARK can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the author’s TRANSITION OF POWER for backstory and cohesion, where Daron and Cameron’s story line begins.

NOTE: KING OF MORGAN PARK runs parallel to crosses over with several of the previous instalments in The Kings of the Castle series.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Cameron and Daron) KING OF MORGAN PARK follows Daron Kincaid as he struggles with his membership in The Castle, a position he ‘inherited’ from a former crime lord, a position coveted by Marquise Sinclair. Threats against his life, and that of the woman he loves finds Daron trying to protect Cameron Stone, a woman who is able to protect herself. The fall-out of Daron’s life and connections to crime push Cameron to the periphery where she refuses to become collateral damage.

KING OF MORGAN PARK is a fast paced, entertaining, well written and intriguing story line but in all honesty, I was confused throughout most of the story line as the author continues to build upon previous story lines bringing together several characters from her other stories and series including Mia and Calvin from The Confection Assignment. Many of the characters were unfamiliar -you have to have read the author’s Transition of Power in order to follow or understand several of the references to previous events. As well, The Kings of the Castle story line takes a back seat to the author’s previous stories and characters thusly feeling disconnected from the overall premise.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

__________

KING OF SOUTH SHORE
(Kings of the Castle #6 )
by MarZe Scott
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic, suspense

ebook ONLY 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 6, 2019.

Award-winning real estate developer, Kaleb Valentine, is known for turning failing communities into thriving havens in the Metro Detroit area. Kaleb’s business investments always brought excellent returns and put him on track for multi-million-dollar status. That is, until five bodies are found in a house fire in one of the properties he purchased on the South Side of Chicago. This puts Kaleb deep in the middle of an intense criminal investigation led by a detective who has a personal vendetta. Not to mention, Kaleb is forced to revisit a life he barely escaped as a teen which threatens a new love interest before the relationship lands on solid ground.

Skyler Pierson has no time for romance, let alone love. So, it’s unexpected that when Kaleb shows up to volunteer at her place of employment, the walls around her heart begin to crumble. Working as the transition coordinator for The Second Chance at Life Women’s Shelter, Skyler secures sanctuary for women and children who have been abandoned by their families or are survivors of domestic violence. When Kaleb asks Skyler for what seems to be a simple favor, she soon discovers that asking one too many questions puts her in the kind of danger she thought she’d managed to distance herself from years before.

The circumstances surrounding Kaleb’s background brings up his past and threatens his success, his life, and his new love. How far will Kaleb’s enemies go to take him down?

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: KING OF SOUTH SHORE by MarZe Scott is the sixth instalment in the multi-authored / multi- cultural KINGS OF THE CASTLE romantic suspense series focusing on nine ‘brothers’ from the streets of Chicago (Vikkas, Reno, Shaz, Jai, Daron, Kaleb, Grant, Dro and Dwayne) mentored and taught by the mysterious Khalil Germaine at the exclusive Macro International Magnet School in Chicago. This is King of South Shore real estate developer Kaleb Valentine, and women’s shelter worker Skyler Pierson. KING OF SOUTH SHORE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading KINGS OF THE CASTLE (Book one) for backstory. Skyler Pierson was first introduced to the reader in the King of Chatham, book two.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Kaleb and Skyler) KING OF SOUTH SHORE follows Kaleb Valentine, a former gang banger who turned evidence years before, as he endeavours to reinvigorate and revitalize the South Side of Chicago but all does not according to plan when the former gang known as the Sovereign Kings, attempts to recruit the one time member, in an effort to take over the territory Kaleb is trying to uplift. When a fire at one of Kaleb’s properties results in the death of five young women, Kaleb becomes the number one suspect in the eyes of the law. Kaleb’s reputation as a former gang banger precedes his return to Chicago and his re-introduction to the Kings of the Castle, a reputation that pits Kaleb against the ‘brothers’ who are struggling to trust our story line hero. Meanwhile Kaleb has fallen for Skyler Pierson, the woman who works side by side with Reno DeLuca, but a woman who will be come collateral damage when Kaleb asks Skyler to help with a young runaway who is refusing to talk. What ensues is the building relationship between Skyler and Kaleb, and the potential fall-out as the Sovereign Kings are determined to take control of Chicago’s South Side.

Kaleb Valentine fell in love with Skyler Pierson from their first introduction but Kaleb found himself pulled back into the world of the South Side gangs, a world of which he was hoping to take down. Skyler Pierson is fiercely protective of the clients at the local women’s shelter and thusly struggles with the unscheduled appearances of Kaleb Valentine. As Kaleb begins a slow seduction of the woman with whom he will fall in love, Skyler will be targeted when threats against Kaleb become personal and dark. The $ex scenes are intimate and limited, but I had to roll my eyes at the cringe-worthy ‘sexy talk’.

Most of the Kings of the Castle play secondary and supporting roles. We are introduced to Skyler’s extended family, including her daughter’s and feisty mother; Sovereign Kings leader Jeremiah ‘Killa’, and Zephyr and Aisha from the author’s previous release Gemini Rising.

KING OF SOUTH SHORE is an intriguing and entertaining story with a colorful and energetic cast of characters.

Previous reviews and reading order
KINGS OF THE CASTLE
King of Chatham
King of Evanston
King of Devon
King of Morgan Park
King of South Shore
King of Lincoln Park
King of Hyde Park
King of Lawndale

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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King of Devon (Kings of the Castle #4) by Naleighna Kai-a review

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King of Devon (Kings of the Castle #4) by Naleighna Kai-a review

ebook only 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 6, 2019.

When a coma patient becomes pregnant under mysterious circumstances, Jai’s medical facility and employees come under intense government, media, and law enforcement scrutiny. During the investigation, he receives a mysterious call summoning him to The Castle following an attempt on his mentor’s life. Soon, Jai is thrust into a position and a brotherhood that will require more of him than he’s prepared to give. With it, a dark family secret explodes that has the potential to destroy the people he loves most.

Temple Devaughn survives a horrific ordeal that lands her in a year-long coma. She finally awakens, only to find she’s been violated and now has a child. The police are investigating the men who cared for her at a medical center that employs “controversial” but highly successful methods. Yet, she has no choice but to trust Jai after she learns the lengths her family has gone to get their hands on a fortune they’ve kept hidden all this time. Complications arise, and Jai is forced to step in to protect Temple from the revenge-seeking perpetrator while showing that he can guard her heart as well.

Will Jai be able to fend off their enemies, fulfill his destiny at The Castle, and navigate a relationship with Temple that is marred by betrayal, mystery, and deadly attempts to silence her once and for all?

•••••••

REVIEW:KING OF DEVON by Naleighna Kai is the fourth instalment in the multi-authored/multi-cultural KINGS OF THE CASTLE romance series focusing on nine nine ‘brothers’ from the streets of Chicago (Vikkas, Reno, Shaz, Jai, Daron, Kaleb, Grant, Dro and Dwayne) mentored and taught by the mysterious Khalil Germaine at the exclusive Macro International Magnet School in Chicago. This is King of Devon and holistic healer Jaidev ‘Jai’ Maharaj, and Temple Devaughn’s story line. KING OF DEVON can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading KINGS OF THE CASTLE (Book one) for backstory.

NOTE: Due to the nature and content of the story line premise, there may be some triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from several third person perspectives including Jai and Temple, following numerous intersecting pathways KING OF DEVON is a detailed and complex addition to the Kings of the Castle. Jai Maharaj owns and operates a nursing facility where it is discovered that one of his young comatose clients, Temple Devaughn, have become pregnant while under his care at the Chetan Healing Center. An investigation into the staff throws shade at all of Jaidev’s employees but none more so than the man himself. Meanwhile several people with connections to Temple, to the Center, to law enforcement, and with the Castle elite all have an axe to grind or are looking for a pay out at the end of the day. But the birth of Temple’s daughter India finds our hero taking full responsibility for the little child, a responsibility that will come with feelings and emotions for Temple, herself. What ensues is the investigation, research and revelations about the who, how, and why, as the betrayal, secrets, lies, and greed slowly bleed the life and power from more than one person hell-bent on destroying them all.

Temple Devaughn has survived not one, not twice but three times against the abusive powers of the people sworn to love and protect. Sexually abused as a child, then again while under the care of the Chetan Healing Center, our heroine is made stronger but that which did not kill her or destroy. Jaidev Maharaj knows to fall in love with Temple goes against everything he has sworn to protect but something about Temple calls to our hero, something he is unable to resist or defend. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

Meanwhile Vikkas Germaine prepares to marry the love of his life but family secrets threaten to throw everything into disarray. From his father’s secret past to betrayal and lies, Vikkas will come face to face with the siblings he has never known, siblings who remained hidden to protect them from the fall-out and collateral damage of numerous affairs, marriage, threats and greed.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including all of the Kings of the Castle and their significant others, Khalil Germaine, and his son Vikkas, as well as the introduction of a new generation of Kings known as the Knights including Hiram Fosten and his girlfriend, Bureau investigator Marilyn Spears . We are introduced to Donald Amos, and Big Red, Temple’s mother Sharon Liscell, and Temple’s ex ‘fiance’ Curtis Burnside.

KING OF DEVON is a captivating, intricate, revealing and meticulous instalment in the Kings of the Castle series. The world building continues to expose a little more about Khalil Germaine, the man who mentored the nine boys from the streets of Chicago, a mentor whose own life what barely under control. The premise is intriguing, fast paced and engaging; the romance is seductive and intense.

Previous reviews and reading order
KINGS OF THE CASTLE
King of Chatham
King of Evanston
King of Devon
King of Morgan Park
King of South Shore
King of Lincoln Park
King of Hyde Park
King of Lawndale

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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