Alpha’s Claim / Alpha’s Promise/ His Lost Mate by Delta James

Alpha’s Claim / Alpha’s Promise/ His Lost Mate by Delta James-reviews

ALPHA’S CLAIM
(Copper Canyon Shifters 1)
by Delta James
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 27, 2024

He’s the alpha of the pack. She’s a witch on the run. Until one stormy night changes everything.

Colt Savage is the alpha of the Copper Canyon wolf pack, dedicating his life to protecting his pack and running the family ranch with unwavering commitment.

One stormy night, a mysterious and battered young woman named Briar arrives at the ranch. The moment Colt catches her scent—an intoxicating aroma that stirs his very soul—he knows she’s different. His wolf recognizes her as his fated mate.

As Briar settles into ranch life, the chemistry between them becomes undeniable. Yet, she guards her secrets closely. When Colt finally confronts her, Briar reveals a shocking truth: she is a powerful witch on the run from a coven that seeks to exploit her immense abilities.

Colt vows to protect her, but trust doesn’t come easy within the pack. With tensions rising, he finds himself caught between pack politics and the relentless attacks from her coven. Loyalties are tested, and dangers lurk around every corner.

•••••

REVIEW: ALPHA’S CLAIM is the first instalment in Delta James’ contemporary, adult COPPER CANYON SHIFTERS erotic, paranormal, romance series. This wolf shifter /alpha Colt Savage, and witch Briar Lockwood’s story line.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Colt and Briar) and a final chapter from Landon, ALPHA’S CLAIM follows in the aftermath of the arrival of our story line heroine, an arrival marked by abuse and exhaustion. Colt Savage is the alpha shifter of the Copper Canyon wolf pack, and as such, continues to hope for a fated mate but no such luck from within his pack, and Colt suspects he will have to go on the hunt for the woman fated to be his mate but the arrival of an injured human female stirs Colt’s inner wolf, a wolf who knows Briar is their mate. Not everyone is happy with Briar’s arrival, and there are still others on the hunt hoping to claim Briar as their own.

The world building focuses on the infrastructure of the Copper Canyon Wolf pack, as well as the jealousy and potential in-fighting for a pack that usually gets along but the Savage brothers are all hoping to find a mate, a woman to match their power, hunger and control.

The relationship between Colt and Briar begins as a ‘rescue’ of a sorts when Briar arrives battered and bruised at the Copper Canyon wolf pack land. Colt knows immediately that Briar is his fated mate but Briar is on the run, hiding from people who have done her harm. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to several members of the Copper Canyon Wolf pack including Colt’s brothers Bryce and Landon; pack housekeeper Etta, and wanna-be mate Elle. The requisite evil has many faces.

ALPHA’S CLAIM is a story of power and control, secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, magic and the supernatural, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is intriguing and entertaining but there is quite a bit of overlap and redundancy (retelling in different POV); the romance is swift and seductive; the characters are determined and dynamic.

_______

ALPHA’S PROMISE
(Copper Canyon Shifters 2)
by Delta James
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 28 , 2024

He’s the enigmatic middle brother. She’s a woman on the run. Until an explosive attraction and a hidden secret will change everything.

In the untamed wilderness of Copper Canyon, Landon Savage thrives on the freedom of the open range and the thrill of the unknown. As the charismatic middle brother of the Savage wolf pack, he’s never been one to settle down—until a mysterious woman appears on the horizon of his family ranch.

Dakota is a woman on the run from a past that shattered her trust and stole her dreams. Seeking solace, she never expected to find it among the rolling hills and under the vast skies of Copper Canyon ranch. Nor did she anticipate the magnetic pull toward the enigmatic cowboy who offers her a place to heal.

However, between pack members being wary of her and the arrival of danger from her past, Dakota’s new beginning is under threat. As passion blazes between them under silver moonlight, Landon vows to protect her at any cost—even if it means confronting his own fears and challenging his pack.

••••

REVIEW: ALPHA’S PROMISE is the second instalment in Delta James’ contemporary, adult COPPER CANYON SHIFTERS erotic, paranormal, romance series. This is wolf shifter Landon Savage, and Dakota Westwood’s story line. ALPHA’S PROMISE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Dakota and Landon) with a final chapter from Bryce, ALPHA’S PROMISE focuses on the building relationship between wolf shifter Landon Savage, and Dakota Westwood. Dakota is on the run, having lost everything in the wake of her grandfather’s death but before he died, Dakota’s grandfather told her ‘look to the east, and finds the wolves’. With nothing left, Dakota followed her grandfather’s instructions, wherein she will come face to face with her future in the guise of wolf shifter Landon Savage. As her future begins to unfurl, the past refuses to let go, threatening our story line heroine in the process.

The world building focuses on Dakota’s struggled to survive in the wake of losing everything and more. Meeting Landon Savage gave Dakota a promise for the future but Landon had a secret that would come full circle with the woman he claims to be his fated mate.

The relationship between Dakota and Landon begins as a ‘rescue’ of a sorts . Dakota lost everything, but her independence meant going it alone until Landon uncovered the truth, and offered Dakota a future and more. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters include the return of Landon’s brother and pack alpha Cole and his mate Briar; their brother Bryce; housekeeper Etta, as well as Dakota’s ex -fiance.

ALPHA’S PROMISE is a story of secrets and lies, power and control, betrayal and greed, acceptance and love, magic and the supernatural. the premise is entertaining and action packed but once again, there is quite a bit of overlap and redundancy (retelling in different POV); the characters are charismatic; the romance is fated and impassioned.

_________

HIS LOST MATE
(Alaskan Tails 12)
by Delta James
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 12, 2024

She’s flying an experimental plane. He hides a wild, untamed secret.

When Air Force test pilot Phoebe Lawrence crash-lands in Alaska’s unforgiving wilderness, survival isn’t her only battle. Stranded and injured after a sabotaged mission, she finds an unlikely savior in Jonah Locke, a reclusive and rugged guide who seems more in tune with the wild than any man she’s ever met.

But Jonah isn’t just any man. Beneath his calm exterior lies a dangerous secret, one that ties him to the very wilderness they’re fighting to escape. As armed assailants close in and conspiracies unravel, the bond between them grows, introducing Phoebe into a world she never imagined.

While Jonah struggles to protect the woman fate has marked as his, Phoebe must decide whether to trust the enigmatic man whose touch sets her soul ablaze. Together, they face danger, desire, and a choice that will change their lives forever.

••••••

REVIEW: HIS LOST MATE is the twelfth instalment and stand alone in Delta James’ contemporary, adult ALASKAN TAILS erotic, paranormal, romance series. This is snow leopard Jonah Locke, and former fighter pilot turned Air Force test pilot Phoebe Lawrence’s story line.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Jonah and Phoebe) HIS LOST MATE focuses on the building relationship between snow leopard Jonah Locke, and Air Force test pilot Phoebe Lawrence in the wake of the crash of Phoebe’s jet. Phoebe Lawrence’s latest assignment is to test the military’s new Ghosthawk stealth fighter but Phoebe suspects the jet has been sabotaged and the inevitable spiral comes in the wake of a missile aimed at the government’s latest weapon. Alone in the Alaskan wilderness, Phoebe is rescued by Jonah Locke, a man who is not human, a man with whom Phoebe will quickly fall in love but all is not well as Jonah and Phoebe have a target on their backs, someone is determined to steal the information that went down in the crash.

The world building is fast and furious. Phoebe and Jonah are on the run, one-step ahead of the people determined to destroy them both but Jonah has a secret, one that Phoebe is about to witness first hand.

The relationship between Phoebe and Jonah is one of fated mates. A crash landing, and an injured woman pull Jonah towards his inevitable future. Jonah’s inner snow leopard believes they have found their mate, and Jonah refuses to give up on the woman who has a target on her back. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

The secondary and supporting characters are few. We are introduced to Lt. Colonel Jessica Mitchell, and executive officer Major Simpson.

HIS LOST MATE is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is intriguing and interesting; the romance is fated and impassioned; the characters are determined and supernatural.

Copies supplied for review

Reviews by Sandy

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CHRISTMAS WITH THE REAPER (Apocalyptic Love 1) by Rose Wulf

CHRISTMAS WITH THE REAPER (Apocalyptic Love 1) by Rose Wulf-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 20, 2024

Death was never supposed to fall in love…

Fenn had long given up on knowing the warmth of another by the day he met her.
Sienna Jacobsen.

A woman who was somehow immune to the touch of Death.

With Christmas just around the corner, Sienna was once again desperate to find someone she could bring home for the weekend.

Talk about the perfect time to finally meet the very literal man of her dreams.

He was supposed to be investigating Sienna’s death-touch immunity, but the only touch on either of their minds was the kind he’d so long been denied. And he couldn’t keep his hands off.

Her sisters had their reservations about Fenn, but it was his personal stalker that threatened to ruin the holiday

••••••

REVIEW: CHRISTMAS WITH THE REAPER is the first instalment in Rose Wulf’s contemporary, adult APOCALYPTIC LOVE erotic, paranormal, fantasy, mythology series. This is Death aka Fenn, and Sienna Jacobsen’s story line.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Sienna and Fenn) CHRISTMAS WITH THE REAPER focuses on the building relationship between Sienna Jacobsen, a woman with the ability to see the future, and Fenn, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Fenn has never known human touch or otherwise, and as one of the Four Horsemen, never expected to fall in love but the touch of a woman with powers of her own gives Fenn thoughts for a future even if only for a limited time. Sienna Jacobsen is a clairvoyant, one of three sisters with supernatural powers, and thought to be blessed by the gods, the Jacobsen sisters try to keep to themselves but a Christmas reunion forces Sienna to look for a plus-one, and Fenn is perfect for the time. Meanwhile Fenn has a stalker, a stalker who takes aim at our story line heroine, using her sisters as collateral damage.

The world building reveals some of Fenn’s history, and the introduction of the other Horsemen, as well as the deities and demi-gods seeking revenge or the ultimate prize.

The relationship between Fenn and Sienna begins by accident when Sienna touches a man who has never been touched.For years, Sienna, as a clairvoyant, has witnessed a stranger in her dreams, a stranger who is about to become her happily ever after. Falling in love was never meant to be, Sienna suspects her relationship with Fenn comes with an expiry date. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Sienna’s ‘magical’ sisters: Maya and Piper, and her best friend Sherri; as well as the other Horsemen: Cassian aka Famine, Sulien aka War, Rajan aka Famine; Florence Dossit; and Moirai Lauryn, aka Fate, and a demi-god with ulterior motives.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE REAPER is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance,obsession and madness, acceptance and love. The premise is enchanting and intriguing; the romance is provocative; the characters are magical and determined.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Wolf’s Chance / Wolf’s Fate by Eve L Mitchell-reviews

WOLF’S CHANCE/ WOLF’S FATE (Shadowridge Peak 1 & 2) by Eve L Mitchell

Wolf’s Chance
Shadowridge Peak 1
by Eve L Mitchell
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal romance

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 15, 2024

Willow Harper has spent most of her life alone, after all, it’s easier to be alone when you’ve already lost everything. Content in the quiet town of Whispering Pines, she immerses herself in her art.

Then Caleb Foster shows up. Tall, handsome, and annoyingly intrusive. Willow wants nothing to do with him.

Caught between curiosity and caution, Willow finds herself watching Caleb and wondering where he goes at night. He sticks out like a sore thumb during the day, but after sundown, he vanishes without a trace.

When fate throws them together, bringing supernatural threats and urban legends to life, Willow has no choice but to trust the mysterious stranger who dogs her days and hounds her dreams.

As their connection becomes increasingly difficult to ignore, they find themselves relying on each other to brave the approaching storm.

Willow didn’t ask for his help…Caleb seems reluctant to offer it.

And both are completely unprepared for what lies ahead.

••••••

REVIEW: WOLF’S CHANCE is the first instalment in Eve L Mitchell’s contemporary, adult SHADOWRIDGE PEAK paranormal, romance series- a spin off set in the author’s Blackbridge Peak series. This is wolf shifter/ rogue Caleb Foster, and twenty-six year old artist Willow Harper’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Willow and Caleb) WOLF’S CHANCE follows in the wake of Caleb Foster’s arrival in Whispering Pines. Pulled towards something unknown, Caleb Foster finds himself drawn to artist Willow Harper, a human woman but a woman who sees more than anyone could have ever imagined. Hoping for some answers, Willow and Caleb go on a journey of discovery only to find themselves on the defensive at every turn.

The world building reveals some of Willow’s background, and the health issues with which she is struggling to contend. Willow’s art has attracted the attention of several people including our story line hero, art that tells a story that should not have been told.

The relationship between Willow and Caleb is tempestuous at best.There is a definite attraction but there is no romance, and Caleb struggles with his attraction to a woman he doesn’t deserve. There are no $ex scenes.

The secondary and supporting characters include Willow’s best friend Lily Summers, and the return of Blackbridge Peak Alpha Cannon.

WOLF’S CHANCE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and discovery. The slow building premise is intriguing and captivating but very little is revealed leaving this reader frustrated. The characters are desperate and sad; there is no romance only distrust and questions. WOLF’S CHANCE ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

_______

WOLF’S FATE
(Shadowridge Peak 2)
by Eve L Mitchell
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release December 20, 2024

Willow Harper thought she was finally beginning to understand the world she’d been thrust into—a world where she’s connected to the enigmatic shifter Caleb Foster. But Caleb has vanished, leaving Willow vulnerable and alone.

The longer Caleb stays away, the more dangerous his absence becomes—not just for him, but for her. Other shifters, drawn to her for reasons she can’t explain, are closing in.

She knows severing their bond may be her only hope, yet the deeper their connection grows, the harder it becomes to let go—especially when her feelings for him are anything but simple.

Hunted by dangerous enemies and haunted by the lingering bond to a man who’s no longer there to protect her, Willow must find Caleb before it’s too late. Together, they’ll have to face the threat to her and, perhaps, confront the darkest parts of Caleb’s past.

But with each day that Caleb stays away, they risk not only losing each other—but everything they’re fighting for.

••••••

REVIEW:WOLF’S FATE is the second instalment in Eve L Mitchell’s contemporary, adult SHADOWRIDGE PEAK paranormal, romance series, a spin off set in the author’s Blackbridge Peak series. This is the continuing story of wolf shifter/ rogue Caleb Foster, and twenty-six year old artist Willow Harper’s story line. WOLF’S FATE should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up after the events of book one WOLF’S CHANCE.

SOME BACKGROUND: Pulled towards something unknown, lone wolf Caleb Foster finds himself drawn to Whispering Pines and artist Willow Harper, a human woman but a woman who sees more than anyone could have ever imagined. Having spent ten years alone after the decimation of his pack, Caleb struggles with pack life, and interacting with society.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Willow and Caleb) WOLF’S FATE picks up approximately three weeks after the events of WOLF’S CHANCE in which, wolf shifter Caleb Foster, having left Willow Harper behind under the protection of the Blackridge Peak Alpha Cannon, journeys towards the ghosts from his past . With his ‘connection’ to Willow growing stronger as he approaches his homeland, Caleb quickly realizes Willow’s life is in danger, and is desperate to protect the woman that calls to his heart. Struggling with the demons from his past, Caleb continues to spiral but with the presence of our story line heroine, Caleb’s demons begin to reveal a devastating story.

The world building reveals Caleb’s past and the destruction of his pack and the people he loved. The ghosts continue to haunt our story line hero but the past takes aim at our story line couple.

The relationship between Caleb and Willow continues to be turbulent and aggressive as Willow struggles to understand the man Caleb is becoming, and the wolf who is desperate to avenge the past. Caleb and Willow are apart for a good portion of the story line -Caleb on the run towards his darkness, and Willow searching for the man with whom she is falling in love. The lone $ex scene is limited but impassioned without any true resolution.

The secondary and supporting characters include the return of the Blackridge Peak wolf pack including Alpha Cannon, Doc, Royce and a visiting Shaman.

WOLF’S FATE is a story of betrayal and vengeance, magic and power, family and loss. The premise is enchanting and entertaining; the characters are broken and magical; the romance is limited as Caleb struggles with his attraction to our story line heroine. WOLF’S FATE ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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THE LOVERS (Daughter of the Moon 4) by HP Mallory -review

THE LOVERS (Daughter of the Moon 4) by HP Mallory -review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 8, 2024

An irreverent, sexy, and hysterical romp through the tarot…

KATE:

After I made the terrible decision to become a Daughter of the Moon, I didn’t think things could get much worse.

But now they are worse. Way, way worse.

When Ezra Blackthorn’s Army of Shadows attacks, I get airlifted by what looks like a pterodactyl (and I’m pretty sure its claws feel comparable) and find myself imprisoned in a place called The Obsidian.

And The Obsidian is about as welcoming as the name might imply.

Soon I meet Ezra who also happens to be public enemy #1. While Ezra looks about as intimidating as a high school math teacher before his morning coffee, Ezra’s bite is lots worse than his bark.

At least I’m not alone here—in a place that looks like it was decorated by Hades.

Valerian is here too. And I’m still trying to figure out whose side he’s on—Ezra’s, ours or his own…

Oh, yeah, and we’re both trying to escape, because I have a feeling we won’t like the plans Ezra has in store for us.

If that weren’t enough to ruin a girl’s day, I’ve just been tasked with my next tarot mission—that of The Lovers.

Right. While I’m in the middle of attempting to escape Mordor, my aunt Artemis wants me to learn some crap about love and relationships.

Between dodging Ezra, surviving the Obsidian, and tackling impossible tarot missions, I’m starting to wonder if my love life is the least of my problems… but knowing my luck, it’s probably the one that’ll get me killed.

•••

REVIEW: THE LOVERS is the fourth instalment in HP Mallory’s contemporary, adult DAUGHTER OF THE MOON tarot themed, paranormal/fantasy series. This is the continuing story of forty-five year old, divorcee and author Catherine ‘Kate’ Murray. THE LOVERS should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events and cliff hanger of book three THE STAR.

SOME BACKGROUND : Following the death of her estranged aunt Artemis, Catherine ‘Kate’ Murray inherited her aunt’s castle, a guardian named Magnus; a magician named Luke Montgomery; Rocco the talking goat; Yolanda the shrunken head; a imprisoned Vampire named Gray / Valerian, and the mantle of DAUGHTER OF THE MOON.

Told from first person perspective (Kate) THE LOVERS focuses on a journey for Kate and the vampire Valerian. Ezra Blackthorne is coming for Kate with his army of Shadows, and no amount of magic will keep Ezra from claiming Kate Murray. Now imprisoned in ‘The Obsidian’, Kate will come face to face with its’ creator, the vampire Valerian, who will help Kate traverse a ‘wonderland’ of darkness, evil, magic and death. As Valerian and Kate remain focused on survival, Kate will come to a crossroads where she much choose the future best suited for her.

THE LOVERS reveals Valerian’s background: his ‘becoming’ a vampire, and the power that corrupts when offered too much at once. While Lucas remains off stage, he is not too far from Kate’s thoughts, thoughts that are now centered on the handsome vampire.

THE LOVERS is a thought provoking story of revelations and history, secrets and power, magic and decision. The premise is entertaining and intriguing; the characters are determined and dynamic. THE LOVERS ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Fool
The Hanged Man
The Star

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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FROSTY THE BIKER (13 Bikers for Christmas ) by Kristine Allen

FROSTY THE BIKER (Thirteen Bikers for Christmas ) by Kristine Allen

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 13, 2024

Frosty the Biker is not only part of the Thirteen Bikers For Christmas Collection, it is also the first book in a new series by Kristine Allen!
Over four years ago, Dalton cheated.

It was the one thing Ryian couldn’t forgive. She ran off to Chicago to start over and have a clean break. Little did she know, she brought a piece of him with her.

After finding out, she made several attempts to find him without success. Dalton had vanished.

When her mother starts having issues at their family store, Ryian decides to move home to help. Ryian begs her mother to involve her uncle Bowie, but she refuses. After all, her uncle Bowie and his friends are into some rather… dark dealings.

Suddenly a series of unbelievable coincidences happen that have Ryian’s head spinning. Now she must decide if there are such things as Christmas miracles, and if second chances are worth the potential heartache.

••••

REVIEW: FROSTY THE BIKER by Kristine Allen is a contemporary, adult, slightly paranormal, MC romance introduction to the author’s Kings of Anarchy MC Louisiana/ Crooked Crown series, and a part of the multi-authored THIRTEEN BIKERS FOR CHRISTMAS. This is tattoo artist Dalton Dickson, and Ryian Buchanan’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Dalton and Ryian) FROSTY THE BIKER focuses on the rekindling romance and relationship between Dalton and Ryian. For years, Dalton and Ryian’s relationship was on and off but at twenty-three years old, believing she had been betrayed, Ryian left her family behind to start over in Chicago but a return home comes with it a return to the past when the man she once loved wants to try for a second chance. Ryian has a secret, a secret that involves our story line hero, a secret four years in the making.

The world building introduces some of the background and players in the author’s new Kings of Anarchy MC Louisiana. Perceived betrayal was at the heart of the breakdown of Dalton and Ryian’s relationship but Ryian’s return brings with it memories from the past.

The relationship between Ryian and Dalton is one of second chances. Dalton and Ryian’s lives went in opposite directions but heart break destroyed their blossoming love.

We are introduced to Dallas, Killswitch, Crypt and Ralph, as well as Dalton and Ryian’s mother.

FROSTY THE BIKER is a story of secrets and lies, heart break and forgiveness. The premise is interesting and entertaining; the romance is subtle; the characters are dynamic. FROSTY THE BIKER ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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A Kiss of Flame (Shadows Eternal 3) by Ashley Lockwood-review

A Kiss of Flame (Shadows Eternal 3) by Ashley Lockwood-review

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 30, 2024

One last adventure. A dragon bound by duty. A simmering passion that could change everything.

A Kiss of Flame will be the third book in the Shadows Eternal Series.

Barith thought he’d find his true mate long before his mother, Queen Eithne of the Sun Dragon horde, chose one for him. But time has run out. As the eldest of her five children, the queen is ready for her son to make a match and return to the horde to fulfill his duty. Fate intervenes when Barith learns his oldest friend, the half-fae mage Levian, has vanished while tracking a group of dangerous thieves. Seizing the chance to delay his impending fate, Barith embarks on a rescue mission that could be his last taste of freedom.

Levian agrees to let Barith join her investigation into the mysterious dark thieves she calls the Black Masks, knowing their friendship will change forever once he’s mated. When their efforts lead them to an exclusive club catering to magickal creatures’ darkest desires, their act to blend in ignites a firestorm of temptation and long-suppressed feelings that threatens to consume them both.

As duty and desire collide, Barith and Levian must confront the true nature of their bond before it’s too late. Will they risk everything for a chance at love, or will ancient traditions and old wounds tear them apart?

•••

REVIEW:A KISS OF FLAME is the third instalment in Ashley Lockwood’s contemporary, adult SHADOWS ETERNAL paranormal, fantasy romance series. This is dragon prince Barith McCroy, and mage/Fae Levian Myrddin’s story line. A KISS OF FLAME can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Barith and Levian) A KISS OF FLAME follows the best friends to lovers / forbidden relationship between dragon prince Barith McCroy and half Fae/mage Levian Myrddin. Prince Barith is betrothed to a female dragon in the hopes of making a stronger horde for the Queen but Barith has been in love with his best friend Levian for as long as he can remember, and struggles with his mother’s choice. Levian, the Wizen Council of Mage’s official Ambassador to the Zephyr High Court, finds herself on the hunt for stolen artifacts, artifacts imbued with magical power. The Black Masks, shadow thieves, are working alongside a power mage, a mage who has mastered the dark arts but with the help from a prisoner with inside knowledge, Levian journeys towards the darkness, in an effort to reclaim what doesn’t belong.

The world building follows several paths including the introduction of Prince Barith’s siblings, and their Queen mother, a woman who is determined to control her only son. On her own, Levian searches for the stolen relics, wherein she will be come face to face with the darkness.

The relationship between Levian and Barith is a best friends to lovers; a forbidden relationship in which neither one is willing to admit their love, a love that is prohibited by the dragon Queen. Betrothed to someone he doesn’t love, Barith struggles between duty and honor, and the love of a woman he cannot have. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of coloful, magical and powerful secondary and supporting supernatural characters including the introduction of Barith’s sisters Catriona, Judith, Flora and Gwen, and their mother Queen Eithne; half-faes Lucian Vane and his co-conspirator Tsuki; as well as Levian’s father Merlin McCroy; and High Daemon Lord Carvatticus; The requisite evil has many faces.

A KISS OF FLAME is a story of power and control, magic and mayhem, secrets and lies, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The slow building premise is detailed and dramatic; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are desperate and dynamic.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Shadow of Dark Desire
A Heart of Ice and Shadow

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

__________

Haven’t started the series? Book 1-SHADOW OF DARK DESIRE is FREE

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Book 2-A HEART OF ICE AND SHADOW is only 99¢

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Shadow of Justice 1 & 2 by Jules MacLeod-reviews & guest post

Shadow of Justice: The Fall and Rise  & Moving On by Jules MacLeod-reviews & guest post

SHADOW OF JUSTICE: The Fall and Rise #1
by Jules MacLeod
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, police, thriller

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date: August 5, 2024

In Shadow of Justice—The Fall and Rise—someone guns down Detective Robert Cooper outside his apartment, leaving his partner, Detective Josh Watson, devastated. A strange, unsettling occurrence soon makes him question his own sanity. Ignoring his captain’s orders to stay away from the case, he is driven to seek justice. His investigation uncovers a web of deceit stretching beyond the city, leading him to dangerous places, putting his life at risk. As time runs out and the stakes rise, he must piece together the clues to bring the shooter to justice, all while facing unseen dangers and mounting threats.

Who committed this cold-blooded crime, and will they ever pay for their actions?

Shadow of Justice is a suspense-filled mystery, packed with unexpected twists, as Watson navigates the shadows of deceit and danger in his relentless pursuit of the truth.

Prepare for a gripping journey of suspense, mystery, and twists in this thrilling whodunnit.

•••••••

REVIEW:SHADOW OF JUSTICE : THE FALL AND RISE is the first instalment in Jules Macleod’s contemporary, adult, paranormal, police thrillers focusing on thirty three year old NYPD Detective Josh Watson, and his partner Detective Robert Cooper.

Told from several omniscient third person POVs including Josh Watson, and numerous and limited perspectives SHADOW OF JUSTICE: THE FALL AND RISE follows NYPD Detective Josh Watson as he hunts for the killer of his NYPD partner. Detective Robert ‘Bobby’ Cooper was gunned downed, and in the aftermath, Detective Josh Watson begins to spiral out of control. On a leave of absence then suspended for disobeying orders, Josh goes in search of a killer, aided by the ghosts from the past. Meanwhile, the Colombian Cartel is at work in New York, and Josh finds himself at the center of another investigation wherein a journey to South America forces Josh to reconsider everything he left behind.

The world building follows several paths, two investigations, and an action packed search for the truth. Although Detective Robert Cooper’s murder is quickly resolved, Josh Watson, with the help of his ‘spirit guide’ finds himself at a crossroads going forward but saying that the jump between points of view is often frenetic as is the bounce between limited and omniscient perspectives.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, powerful, dangerous and questionable secondary and supporting characters including several NYPD law enforcement; staff psychiatrist Dr. Jacqueline Bradshaw ; Colombian police and special forces COPES; and several members of the Colombian Cartel.

SHADOW OF JUSTICE is a slow building, intriguing and engaging story of murder and vengeance, secrets and the supernatural; acceptance and decisions. The premise is captivating but there is more telling than showing, and once again the jump between characters and perspectives can be disconcerting. There is a mix of written narrative, contemplation and reflection. SHADOW OF JUSTICE ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Copy supplied for review

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SHADOW OF JUSTICE: Moving On #2
by Jules MacLeod
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, police, thriller

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 30, 2024

NYPD Detective Josh Watson returns from a transformative trip, haunted by the memory of a woman he left behind. As he tries to move on, a new drug lord rises in the syndicate he previously investigated, only to be overthrown by a ruthless South American rival, plunging the city into chaos. Josh picks up the investigation into the murder of a cop, but his passion for justice fades, leaving him disillusioned.

Seeking solace in a new relationship, Josh dives deeper into investigating a mysterious crime organization that threatens his life. As the stakes rise, someone close to Josh faces mortal danger, forcing him to act. Teaming up with trusted NYPD colleagues and the elite COPES unit, he races to uncover the criminals and stop the threat. In a final, deadly showdown, Josh must protect the person he cares about and fight for his own survival, as both face the very real possibility of death

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REVIEW:SHADOW OF JUSTICE: MOVING ON by Jules Macleod is the second instalment in the author’s contemporary, adult, paranormal, police thriller focusing on thirty three year old NYPD Detective Josh Watson, and his partner Detective Robert Cooper. MOVING ON should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up after the events of book one THE FALL AND RISE.

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

Told from several omniscient third person POVs including Josh Watson and numerous limited perspectives SHADOW OF JUSTICE: MOVING ON follows Detective Josh Watson as he reconsiders his future. Having left the police force to start anew as a private investigator, Josh finds himself working alongside his former colleagues as his latest assignment continues to focus on the Colombian Cartel. Believing someone new is now in control of the Cartel, Josh, his girlfriend Dr. Jacqueline Bradshaw, and the late detective Bobby Cooper begin to unravel a trail of destruction, destruction that is closer than they could have ever imagined. A new start, a new life, a new love and a prosperous future working alongside the NYPD finds Josh a target of the Cartel, and a man who will stop at nothing to get his revenge.

Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of energetic and charismatic secondary and supporting characters including NYPD law enforcement, Captain Sam Granger and Colombian Special Forces aka COPES.

SHADOW OF JUSTICE: MOVING ON is another dramatic and engaging story of secrets and the supernatural, power and control, acceptance and moving on. The premise is intriguing and entertaining but like the first instalment the jump between characters and perspectives (often between paragraphs) can be disconcerting

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Unveil the Shadow of Justice!

A heinous act shatters the early morning silence in New York City. NYPD Detective Robert Cooper is gunned down in cold blood, leaving his colleagues desperate for answers. Detective Josh Watson, shaken and determined, defies orders to uncover the truth behind his partner’s murder. Is he suffering from PTDS or hallucinating? Who or what is the Shadow of Justice?

Will Josh piece together the clues and bring the criminal to justice?

As he delves deeper, he uncovers a tangled web of deception that extends beyond the city limits. Every shadow hides a secret, and every revelation brings Josh closer to the truth—and danger. This fast-paced, thrilling crime and mystery novel is packed with explosive action sequences that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Ready to join the adventure?

Get your copy now and dive into the gripping world of Shadow of Justice!

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Under Loch and Key by Lana Ferguson – a Review

Under Loch and Key by Lana Ferguson – a Review

 

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Description:
Keyanna “Key” MacKay is used to secrets. Raised by a single father who never divulged his past, it’s only after his death that she finds herself thrust into the world he’d always refused to speak of. With just a childhood bedtime story about a monster that saved her father’s life and the name of her estranged grandmother to go off of, Key has no idea what she’ll find in Scotland. But repeating her father’s mistakes and being rescued by a gorgeous, angry Scotsman—who thinks she’s an idiot—is definitely the last thing she expects.

Lachlan Greer has his own secrets to keep, especially from the bonnie lass he pulls to safety from the slippery shore—a lass with captivating eyes and the last name he’s been taught not to trust. He’s looking for answers as well, and Key’s presence on the grounds they both now occupy presents a real problem. It’s even more troublesome when he gets a front row seat to the lukewarm welcome Key receives from her family; the strange powers she begins to develop; and the fierce determination she brings to every obstacle in her path. Things he shouldn’t care about, and someone he definitely doesn’t find wildly attractive.

When their secrets collide, it becomes clear that Lachlan could hold the answers Keyanna is after—and that she might also be the key to uncovering his. Up against time, mystery, and a centuries old curse, they’ll quickly discover that magic might not only be in fairy tales, and that love can be a real loch-mess.

 

 

Review:

Under Loch and Key by Lana Ferguson is standalone romantasy novel set in Scotland.  We meet Keyanna “Key” MacKay, who recently lost her father, and wants to honor his last wish, to spread his ashes in Scotland.  Key flies to her father’s hometown in Scotland, and is determined to meet her estranged family, where he had never returned to Scotland; and needing to learn more about his past.  Key will meet her grandparents, as they learn that her father passed away; her grandfather welcomed her with open arms, but her grandmother still held grudges, having never seen her son again; in time her grandmother will openly love Key. Key will try to mend the broken ties between them; and her cousin, Brodie.

Lachlan Greer has his secrets, which he keeps quiet, with only two friends at the pub, who have known his secrets for years.  He meets Key, and tends to be nasty to her, with Key not liking him at all.  Lachlan, works for Key’s grandparents, gets a view of the lukewarm welcome from her grandmother. When Key attempts to spread her father’s ashes, she slips and comes face to face with the Loch Ness monster.  

Key learns that Lachlan is affected by an old curse that affects all Greer men in a Scottish urban mythology revolving around the Loch Ness monster. Key begins to understand that Lachan has been trying to find clues to end the curse. They will begin to work together on trying to find the clues behind the curse; and their attraction brings them even closer and they fall very much in love.  Key needs to help save Lachlan and find a way to break the curse.  She also discovers that she has been developing strange powers, such as fire from her hands, as well as opening windows and stopping rain.  

I really loved Key, as she was great heroine; and learning to love her grandparents.  Lachlan turned out to be great, as he had fallen hard for her.  I will say I thought there was a lot of smut throughout the last half of the book. Under Loch and Key was fun, lighthearted, family oriented, heartwarming, forgiveness, with a mystery that Key might be able to solve. Under Loch and Key was very well written by Lana Ferguson

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

 

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