Tag Archives: Sandy’s Reviews

The House at Watch Hill (Watch Hill) by Karen M Moning-dual review

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The House at Watch Hill (Watch Hill Trilogy 1) by Karen M Moning-dual review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 1, 2024

Zo Grey is reeling from the sudden death of her mother when she receives a surprising call from an attorney in Divinity, Louisiana, with the news she has been left an inheritance by a distant relative, the terms of which he will only discuss in person. Destitute and alone, with nothing left to lose, Zo heads to Divinity and discovers she is the sole beneficiary of a huge fortune and a monstrosity of a house that sits ominously at the peak of Watch Hill—but she must live in it, alone, for three years before the house, or the money, is hers.

Met with this irresistible opportunity to finally build a future for herself, Zo puts aside her misgivings about the foreboding Gothic mansion and the strange circumstances, and moves in, where she is quickly met by a red-eyed Stygian owl and an impossibly sexy Scottish groundskeeper.

Her new home is full of countless secrets and mystifying riddles, with doors that go nowhere, others that are impossible to open, and a turret into which there is no visible means of ingress. And the townspeople are odd…

What Zo doesn’t yet know is that her own roots lie in this very house and that in order to discover her true identity and awaken her dormant powers, she will have to face off against sinister forces she doesn’t quite comprehend—or risk being consumed by them.

•••••

Sandy’s review:THE HOUSE AT WATCH HILL is the first instalment in Karen Marie Moning’s contemporary, adult WATCH HILL dark, paranormal trilogy focusing on twenty-four year old Zo Grey and the residents of Divinity Louisiana.

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

Told from dual first person (Zo and Alisdair) using present day, journal entries, and personal letters THE HOUSE AT WATCH HILL follows in the wake of the death of two members of Zo’s family: Zo’s mother Joanna Grey, as well as a distant relative Juniper Cameron. As the sole living heir to her great aunt Juniper’s bloodline Zo Grey is invited to Divinity, Louisiana where she will discover that she is descended from a long line of powerful beings, and as such, the latest target of the townsfolk of Divinity but Zo has yet to come into her powers, powers that our heroine will struggle to control. From dark and light witches, and a warm vampire witch, Zo will come face to face with an uncertain future when the town takes aim at our story line heroine.

The world building focuses on Zo Grey’s foray into a world she knew nothing about. Hidden most of her life, always on the run with her ailing mother, Zo will soon discover, with the help of her best friend Este Hunter, and a haunting grimoire , the truth is much more heart breaking and anger-inducing than she could have ever imagined. Zo is a strong-willed, young woman whose life is changing rapidly.

There is a large ensemble cast of magical, powerful and determined secondary and supporting characters all of whom has varying degrees of magic and power. We are introduced attorney James Balfour, groundskeeper Devlin Blackstone, Rufus the owl, and Kellan. The requisite evil has many faces.

THE HOUSE AT WATCH HILL is a story of secrets and lies, power and control, betrayal and manipulation, magic and mayhem, family and friendships. The premise is captivating, enchanting and dramatic; the characters are magical and powerful. There are two men vying for Zo’s attention but their true intention may be something more nefarious than a one-night stand. THE HOUSE AT WATCH HILL ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

________

Barb’s Review: The House at Watch Hill by Karen Marie Moning is the first book in her new Watch Hill Trilogy. We meet Zo Grey, who is 24 years old, and grieving the sudden death of her mother; and seriously in debt, with multiple jobs. She receives a surprising phone call from an attorney in Divinity, Louisiana, as she has been left an inheritance by an unknown relative (she never knew), Juniper Cameron. Zo decides to drive to Divinity to meet the attorney, James Balfour, to learn about the inheritance.   She discovers that she is the sole beneficiary of a huge fortune, as well as a gothic manor house, built on Watch Hill. There are some terms; she must live in the house for three years, she will be paid 1 million dollars for the first and second years, and at the end of the three years, she will inherit 140 million, including all assets from Juniper Cameron.  The attorney, James Balfour, becomes her right-hand man, who will protect her against the many townsfolks who do not accept her.   

Zo learns more about the witch coven, who are part of Divinity, which has a dark history, with warring clans, and powerful enemies, which also include witches, covens, vampires, shapeshifters; and a ongoing battle between light and dark magic.  Kovan, is a 13-witch family with 169 members.  Zo is expected to become the leader, once she learns everything, including the magical powers that continue to increase.  Zo will need to get experience and training to fight her enemies.  Will she survive, as the witch clans will do anything to kill her.

Zo has been through a lot, especially waiting for the 7 days and nights until she is allowed to open a letter from Juniper, explaining her responsibilities, the town history, and more about her magical powers. Zo learns the secrets within the house, which will awaken her dormant powers. She will have to face off against sinister forces in Divinity that are determined to stop her from reaching her powerful potential. Zo finds herself lusting after Devlin, the Scottish groundskeeper, who also wants to protect her from evil.  I really did like James Balfour, Devlin and Rufus, the owl.

The House on Watch Hill is a fabulous dark fantasy, with a bit of mystery, danger, romance, sex, magic story line. It was very exciting as we get close to the end, which does end with a cliff-hanger.  The House at Watch Hill was so very well written by Karen Marie Moning.  I can’t Wait for the next book in this trilogy. 

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THE SHADOW KING’S KISS (De Luca Empire 1) by Raven Reeves-review

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THE SHADOW KING’S KISS (De Luca Empire 1) by Raven Reeves-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 30, 2024

Nica

The De Luca name means power, wealth, and a darkness that chills me to the bone. They’re a viper’s nest, and my father was killed by their fangs. Now, I want revenge.
But then I see him. Elio De Luca. His sharp jawline, effortlessly tousled dark hair, and intense eyes pull me in, even though I know I should hate him. My heart races, and a flush creeps up my neck.
Is this really the same boy who used to build sandcastles with me and sneak me candy? The memory throws me off balance. How can my childhood friend now control an empire built on blood? His eyes meet mine—a flicker of recognition, then a cold mask. Is he playing games, or is there something left of the boy I knew beneath that ruthless facade?
Stepping into Elio’s world, a world I left behind as a child, could cost me more than just my heart—it might cost me my life.

Elio
The scent of cinnamon hits me, a ghost from a past I thought was long gone.
It’s Nica.
My gaze sweeps over her curves, and I can’t help but linger. Her long, dark hair frames a face that draws me in effortlessly. Her lips part, and I wonder how they would taste. Everything about her makes it impossible to look away.
Victoria Galli. My best friend—until she wasn’t. I remember her fiery spirit and that laugh that could chase away shadows. But now her eyes are filled with a fury I can’t decipher, and my heart tightens. She doesn’t belong here. Not in this world. My world.
Part of me wants to reach out, explain the darkness I’ve become. But will Nica only see the monster the rest of the world fears?

••••

REVIEW: THE SHADOW KING’S KISS is the first full-length instalment in Raven Reeves’ contemporary, adult DE LUCA EMPIRE dark, erotic, Mafia romance series. This is the new head of the De Luca empire, Elio De Luca, and twenty-six year old, Victoria ‘Nica’ Galli’s story line. There is a prequel novella available THE SHADOW KING’S TRUTH focusing on some of the background of our story line couple.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Elio and Nica) using present day and memories from the past, THE SHADOW KING’S KISS follows in the aftermath of the discover of Nica’s father. Matteo Galli worked for the De Luca Family but disappeared one year earlier. Believing the De Luca family had killed her father, Victoria Galli puts an ill conceived plan into action but finds herself a virtual prisoner of the man in charge. Enter Elio De Luca, her childhood best friend, and the man with whom Nica will fall in love. Someone is targeting Victoria Galli, and Elio is determined to protect her with his body and his heart but all is not well in the De Luca empire, and betrayal will come at a cost.

The world building is detailed revealing some of the earlier history between Nica and Elio. Best friends who grew up together under the shadow of the De Luca empire, Nica would eventually run from the life, and Elio was left to pick up the pieces of his broken heart.

The relationship between Elio and Nica is one of second chances, of a sorts. Friends to enemies to frenemies to lovers, Elio is determined to protect the woman he loves but when betrayal comes from within, everything begins to spiral out of control. Reconnecting with Victoria forces Elio to look towards a different future, a future on the run to protect them both. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense.

The secondary and supporting characters are a mix of good and evil, dark and light. We are introduced to Don De Luca and his wife Maria; Elio’s brother Vinny; Don Mario Falcone and his daughter Sophia; FBI Agent Jackson, as well as an assortment of security and Mafia personnel.

THE SHADOW KING’S KISS is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, madness and murder, power and control, forgiveness and love. The premise is intriguing, dramatic and dark; the romance is seductive and passionate; the characters are determined, charismatic and animated. THE SHADOW KING’S KISS ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Claimed by the Bikers/One Night with the Bikers by Nikki Landis

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CLAIMED BY THE BIKERS / ONE NIGHT WITH THE BIKERS (Feral Rebels 1 & 2) by Nikki Landis-review tour

CLAIMED BY THE BIKERS
Feral Rebels MC 1 / RBMC: Tonapah NV
by Nikki Landis
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, MC, paranormal, romance

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 19, 2024

The worst secrets are the ones you can never tell.

I’ve become an expert at hiding bruises.
No one knows about the scars I hide under my clothes … except for my best friend, Embry.
One horrible night, things go too far, and Embry insists on sending her cousin to help.
A wild, inked, bad boy and member of a notorious biker club.
I didn’t count on him riding to my rescue with two of his MC brothers.
The three overbearing, possessive outlaws won’t take no for an answer.

Slash, Embry’s cousin and my secret crush. I never told him how I felt. He’s a reckless, dangerous, brooding giant who growls every word. He’s rumored to have earned his road name through his ruthless skill with a blade.

Gunner, the trio’s older, more experienced alpha, insists on keeping his distance and barking orders. But the look in those stormy gray eyes betrays his struggle, especially when they flash with heat and raze my body with their smolder.

And then there’s Havoc, a pierced, tattooed playboy with lean muscle and coiled strength. He’s left a mile-long line of broken hearts in his wake. But when his dark eyes focus on me, I swear he’s plotting how to maim everyone who’s ever hurt me.

The three bikers swear to keep me safe.
They won’t rest until the threat against me is eliminated.
But they didn’t know what they’d dig up. Lies, corruption, and a trafficking ring are only the beginning.
My father’s debts and horrifying choices reveal truths I can’t escape.
The only way I’m surviving this mess is to trust the Feral Rebels MC.
And let Slash, Gunner, and Havoc claim me.

••••

REVIEW:CLAIMED BY THE BIKERS is the first instalment in Nikki Landis’ contemporary, adult FERAL REBELS MC dark, erotic, MC romance, set in the author’s RBMC: Tonopah NV and RBMC: Las Vegas. This is Molly, Slash, Gunner and Havoc’s reverse harem story.

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

There is a slight paranormal aspect with the inclusion of the RBMC: Tonopah MC.

Told from four first person perspectives (Molly, Slash, Gunner and Havoc) CLAIMED BY THE BIKERS follows the building relationship between Molly and her men. Molly had lusted after her best friend Embry’s cousin Slash for as long as she could remember but Molly believed Slash never knew she existed until the day Molly disappeared, fighting for her life, a victim of the Bladed Serpents MC. Witnessing horrific acts against other woman, Molly prayed for a rescue from our story line heroes, a rescue that brings her up close and personal with her future in the guise of Slash, Gunner and Havoc.

The world building focuses on the search and rescue of our story line heroine, not once but twice: the three men who have promised to protect her with their lives; and the people who target our story line heroine and why.

The relationship between Holly, and Slash, Gunner and Havoc begins as a rescue but Holly and Slash had previously danced around once another, a dance that now involved two other men. The $ex scenes are provocative and passionate.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including several members of RBMC: Tonopah, RBMC: Vegas, the Feral Rebels MC, and the Bladed Serpents MC.

CLAIMED BY THE BIKERS is a story of betrayal and obsession, friendships and family, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is dramatic and dark; the romance is seductive; the characters are desperate and dynamic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

__________

ONE NIGHT WITH THE BIKERS
Feral Rebels MC 2 / RBMC: Tonapah NV
by Nikki Landis
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, MC, paranormal, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date: September 30, 2024

One night, three bikers, a shared bottle of whiskey, and the best climax of my life changed everything.

I’ve always been a good girl.

My father is a preacher, and I’ve spent my life making safe choices and following all the rules.

But when I find the man who swore to love me in bed with another woman, I can’t pretend to honor, love, and cherish any longer. He betrayed me and emptied our bank account. I lost everything.

That’s when I met Raptor, Trojan, and War. Three inked bad boys and members of a notorious biker club.

Trojan, the flirt with a sensual smile and eyes full of promise. His husky words make me want to do wicked things.

Raptor, rough, inked, and muscled. His hulking strength and skill with a blade are why he’s the cleaner of the club, but his protective nature makes me feel warm and safe.

And then there’s War. He’s broken, guarded, and doesn’t understand personal boundaries. The darkness in his eyes seems like a warning, but I feel drawn to his heated gaze.

The three men offer to give me the best night of my life. I let them, breaking all the rules for one night. But six weeks later, I’m left with a present. I’m sick, and it isn’t the stomach flu.

I’m pregnant. With twins.

Things grow more complicated when my ex tries to intimidate me, causing problems and sending threats. I’m in danger.

Trojan, War, and Raptor won’t allow anything to happen to me or the babies. We’re a family now.

 

•••••••••

REVIEW:ONE NIGHT WITH THE BIKERS is the second instalment in Nikki Landis’ contemporary, adult FERAL REBELS MC erotic, MC, slightly paranormal, reverse harem series, set in the multi-authored RBMC:Tonopah, LV. This is Sydney Parrish, Trojan, Raptor and War’s story line. ONE NIGHT WITH THE BIKERS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from four first person perspectives (Sydney Parrish, Trojan, Raptor, War) ONE NIGHT WITH THE BIKERS focuses on the one-night stand, and ensuing relationship between Sydney Parrish and her bikers. Approximately six months earlier, Sydney’s ex Daryl took everything, including her money and her self respect. When her best friend Becca suggested a night at the Feral Rebels MC clubhouse where her brother was a member, Sydney jumped in feet first but six weeks later Sydney discovered she is pregnant and didn’t know who is the  father: Trojan, Raptor or War. Fast forward several months, Sydney’s ex refuses to back down, and her life and the lives of her children are in danger. What ensues is the rekindling relationship between Sydney and the bikers, and the potential fall-out when a betrayal from within threatens the lives of Sydney and the babies.

The world building is fast and furious. One night together: homelessness, a surprise pregnancy; new friends, threats, and betrayal. Raptor, War and Trojan never forgot about the woman who ghosted them the next day but their attempts to find her were weak and lame 😉

The relationship between Sydney and her bikers begins as foursome; a one-night stand to blow off some steam but Sydney never expected to get pregnant, lose her home, or find herself facing a future alone. Reconnecting with the bikers, Sydney finds herself with a new family, friends and a future but no everyone is happy with the situation. The $ex scenes are limited but provocative.

The secondary and supporting characters are limited. We are introduced to Sydney’s new friend Clarise; club bunny ‘Barbie’; Sydney’s ex Daryl; as well as the return of Molly (Claimed by the Bikers 1), and RBMC Tonopah LV’s white reaper / tracker Bones.

ONE NIGHT WITH THE BIKERS is a fast paced, quick read focusing on secrets, betrayal, acceptance and love. The premise is entertaining yet dramatic but I wish there was a little more time spent with the foursome; the characters are dangerous, determined and dynamic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

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Nikki Landis is the USA Today & International Bestselling, Multi-Award-Winning Author of over 50 romance novels in the MC, reverse harem, paranormal, dystopian, and science fiction genres. Her books feature deadly reapers, dark alpha heroes, protective shifters, and seductive vampires along with the feisty, independent women they love. There’s heart-throbbing action on every page as well as fated mates and soul bonds deep enough to fulfill every desire.

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THE WRAITH KING by Juliette Cross-dual review

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THE WRAITH KING (The Rise of Northgall 1) by Juliette Cross-dual review

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

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 24, 2024

A brutal, bloody war against the ruthless Wraith King has cost the light fae more than innocent lives. Una Hartstone, Princess of Issos, learns the price the Wraith King demands to end the war once and for all. Her. In exchange for the safety of her people, she agrees to give her life-and her body-to her greatest enemy.

Gollaya Verbane is determined to fulfill his destiny and his god’s prophecy. When his seer points to the Princess of Issos as the key to the rise of the dark fae, he demands her submission. But when she finally yields, he realizes Una is much more to him than a priceless weapon.

A mystery that has haunted Una for years awakens when she is abducted and dragged back to Näkt Mir. The palace hides many dark secrets…and at least one traitor. A traitor determined to take King Goll’s throne-and all he possesses. What he doesn’t know is that Una’s magick is more powerful than he can imagine, and that Goll will burn the whole world to save her.

••••••

Sandy’s Review: THE WRAITH KING is the first instalment in Juliette Cross’ adult THE RISE OF NORTHGALL paranormal, fantasy romance series. This is soon to be King, Prince Gollaya ‘Golla’ of Northgall, and Princess Tiarrialuna ‘Luna’ Hartstone Verbane’s story line.

Told from three omniscient third person perspectives including Luna and Golla, THE WRAITH KING follows in the wake of the forced relationship between our story line couple. Approximately five years earlier, moon Fae Princess Luna was a prisoner of the Wraith King, a spoil of war but her would-be rescuer would eventually become both her enemy and lover. Fast forward five years, Luna is once again a prisoner of the Wraith King but in the wake of his murder, his son Gollaya would ascend to the throne, claiming Luna as his Mizrah, his future bride. To avoid the annihilation of her people, who have already been ravaged by the plague, Luna agrees to Gollaya’s terms, facing a lifetime of hatred for a man she will never love. Leaving behind her ailing father and brother Baelyn, Luna must endure the humiliation accorded to all Wraith King MIzrah’s, a ceremony meant to ensure the King lay claim to mother of his future children but all is not well within the Northgall Kingdom, a traitor has set sites on our story line heroine.

The world building is detailed and complex with numerous supernatural and paranormal creatures ; ancient gods and goddesses; myths and mythology; madness and murder.

The relationship between Luna and Golla is a forced relationship ; an enemies to lovers relationship predicated upon the spoils of war. Luna struggles in the face of surrendering for the good of her people while Golla is determined to provide an heir for the Northgall people. As Golla struggles to keep his distance, Luna will discover that her fate has been decreed by the gods. Golla knew the moment he met Luna that she would be his destiny, his fate but never expected to force our heroine into a life she knew nothing about.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 colorful, magical and destructive secondary and supporting supernatural characters: fae, sprites, demons, dragons, and an assortment of mythical beasts and gods all with special abilities and powers.

THE WRAITH KING is a story of war and survival, secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, acceptance and love. The multi-layered premise is detailed, complex and enchanting; the romance is fated and seductive ; the characters are determined and dynamic. THE WRAITH KING ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

 

________

Barb’s Review: The Wraith King by Juliette Cross is the first book in her Romantasy series, The Rise of Northgall. We meet our heroine, Una (Princess of Issos), who was captured by the evil King, who had her imprisoned and tortured. An old woman, on death’s bed, gave her some of her magical powers; and Una managed to escape.  In another part of the wing, Goll (his father had him captive in a cage), also escapes, and helps the young girl escape with him; as he carried her to freedom, Goll brings her close to her home, and moves on.  Both Una (princess of light fae); Goll will discover each other again 5 years later.

Una once is again captured by the evil Wraith King. Goll has been builting his own army, to defeat his father, the evil King.  When he learns that the young girl, he rescued 5years ago, was captured, he is determined to save Una, and kill his father.  Now King Goll (dark fae king), combines Northgall and Lumera under his control, forcing Una to become his Miszar (wife), and produce him an heir.  She finally agrees, to save her people from war, especially with a bad plague affecting those in Lumera.  In a short time, when they consummate their marriage, love will soon follow, as they both open hearts; with a prophecy and quests that lead to their destiny.

I loved Una and Goll together, they made such a wonderful unique couple.  Una turned into a fantastic heroine, always caring about her people, generous, loyal and her powers evolving. Goll was also very good, being strong, independent and totally in love with Una. Drakmir, (Goll’s Dragon) was wonderful, with Una loving him.  I also loved all the wonderful secondary characters that were part of Goll’s group, who were all great; especially I adored Hava. We did discover that a traitor was within their team, a bit closer to the end.   To say too much more would be spoilers.

The last half of the book was an exciting adventure, filled with many quests to find the missing ‘words’ to reveal the truths to bring the light and dark fae together; with the final climax a wild ending.  The Wraith King was a fantastic story, with non-stop action, twists, betrayal, as well as having gods, goddesses, myths and mythology. The Wraith King was so very well written by Juliette Cross.  If you enjoy a romantasy story line, filled with intrigue, prophecy, violence and sexy, you need to read The Wraith King.

 

Copy supplied for review

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

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

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HERO’S PRIZE (Linear Tactical:Oak Creek 3) by Janie Crouch-review

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HERO’S PRIZE (Linear Tactical: Oak Creek 3) by Janie Crouch-review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 27, 2024

When a deadly accident leaves extreme sport superstar Colton Harrison questioning what his future holds, he decides to take a timeout in his hometown of Oak Creek.

He knows the mountains and wildness of Wyoming will help him heal.

But he has no idea how he’s known sweet Ella O’Conner all his life but is somehow only really seeing her for the first time now.

People in his world may say she doesn’t measure up, but this woman—and all her sexy curves—is downright beautiful to Colton.

Ella is who he wants. Who he needs. Who he wants to spend the rest of his life with.

Although convincing her of that will be tricky. All she’s ever wanted was a quiet existence, and life in the public eye can be brutal—no matter how much Colton vows to protect her.

Especially when a stalker is willing to do anything to keep Colton for themself.

•••••

REVIEW: HERO’S PRIZE is the third instalment in Janie Crouch’s contemporary, adult LINEAR TACTICAL; OAK CREEK romantic suspense series, a second-generation spin off from the author’s LINEAR TACTICAL series. This is thirty-two year old, extreme sports star Colton Harrison, and bakery owner Ella O’Conner’s story line. HERO’S PRIZE 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 (Colton and Ella) HERO’S PRIZE follows the friends to to lovers relationship between our story line couple. Colton Harrison has returned to his home town of Oak Creek, to film his latest extreme sport adventure. A friend’s wedding brings Colton up close and personal with Ella O’Conner where he will discover that Ella has crushed after our story line hero for as long as she could remember but one night together ends when Ella ghosts Colton the next morning, ghosting that left Colton wondering what happened or why but Colton’s adventure doesn’t go according to plan, and weeks will pass before our couple come face to face, again. Colton has a stalker; someone who is amping up the apparent ‘threats’ but our heroine is about to pay the price for Colton’s star power and popularity.

The world building focuses on Colton’s career; a possible career ending injury; the back and forth relationship between Colton and Ella, and the threats against our story line couple.

The relationship between Colton and Ella is a friends to lovers. Everyone in Oak Creek is aware of Ella’s attraction to our story line hero but Colton himself. Having followed Colton’s career, the town of Oak Creek will have to come together to protect one of their own. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

There is a large ensemble cast of familiar and charismatic secondary and supporting characters from both the Linear Tactical and the second generation Oak Creek series. We are introduced to videographer Rick, and Colton’s assistant Tony.

HERO’S PRIZE is a story of betrayal, obsession and jealousy; family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is intriguing and captivating; the romance is fated and heart breaking; the characters are strong-willed, struggling and determined.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Hero Unbound
Hero’s Flight

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

USA TODAY bestselling author Janie Crouch writes what she loves to read: passionate romantic suspense. She is a winner and/or finalist of multiple romance literary awards including the Golden Quill Award for Best Romantic Suspense, the National Reader’s Choice Award, and the coveted RITA© Award by the Romance Writers of America.

Janie recently relocated with her husband and their four teenagers to Germany (due to her husband’s job as support for the U.S. Military), after living in Virginia for nearly 20 years. When she’s not listening to the voices in her head (and even when she is), she enjoys engaging in all sorts of crazy adventures (200-mile relay races; Ironman Triathlons, treks to Mt. Everest Base Camp) traveling, and movies of all kinds.

Website | https://www.janiecrouch.com
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Facebook | www.facebook.com/janiecrouch/
Facebook Group | www.facebook.com/groups/crouchcrew/
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TikTok | www.tiktok.com/@janiecrouch
Bookbub | www.bookbub.com/authors/janie-crouch
Newsletter | https://sm.read-jc.com/vip

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Raptor (Fury Vipers MC: Dublin 2) by Brooke Summers-review tour

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🧡Raptor (Fury Vipers MC: Dublin 2) by Brooke Summers-review tour🧡

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

Release Date September 26, 2024

He can’t get her out of his mind. She is drowning in her own self doubt and secrets.

Raptor thought it would just be a few steamy nights and nothing more—but he can’t seem to get Mallory out of his mind.

But she lives in Ireland and he lives in New York; how could they ever be more?

He can’t and won’t abandon his brothers, his family for love. Or can Raptor have it all?

When the woman he can’t seem to forget disappears into thin air. He’ll tear apart Ireland to find her.

Mallory has always had to take care of herself; alone most of her life.

She never wanted to be a bother to anyone. She’ll shoulder the weight of their choices on her own; refusing to trap Raptor into a life she believes he does not want.

But Mallory has other secrets, darkness is stalking her at every corner.

So she does the only thing she can—disappear.

Can Mallory learn to lean on Raptor and save her family?

Can Raptor save Mallory before time runs out?

••••

REVIEW:RAPTOR is the second instalment in Brooke Summers’contemporary, adult FURY VIPERS MC: DUBLIN dark, erotic, MC romance series-a spin off from the author’s FURY VIPERS MC. This is eighteen year old Mallory, and thirty six year old Fury Vipers MC: Dublin vice president Raptor aka Shane. RAPTOR can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. An important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there WILL BE triggers from more sensitive readers.

The events of RAPTOR cross over with and run parallel to the events of several of the previous FURY VIPERS MC and FURY VIPERS MC: DUBLIN instalments.

Told from dual first person perspectives(Raptor and Mallory) covering approximately two years, RAPTOR focuses on the events after Raptor and Mallory’s weekend together. Approximately eighteen months earlier, Raptor met Mallory while the Irish woman was on vacation with her friend Chloe in the USA. A weekend spend together ended when Mallory had to return home but in the ensuing time, Raptor heard little to no communication from the woman he could not forget. When the MC decided to open up a chapter in Dublin, Ireland, Raptor was one for the first to volunteer in the hopes of locating the woman who stole his heart but months will pass, without any communication, until the day Mallory arrived at the clubhouse beaten and bruised, a woman with a secret she had yet to reveal.What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Raptor and Mallory, as the MC circles the wagons to protect the woman with whom Raptor had fallen in love.

The world building follows several paths as it crosses over with several of the previous story lines. Mallory’s mother goes missing; a close friend finds herself on the receiving end of ongoing abuse, and Raptor and the MC go on the hunt for the person who attacked the woman he loved.

The relationship between Mallory and Raptor begins approximately eighteen months earlier, a weekend together, ending with little to no further communication. As Mallory’s life begins to change and spiral out of control, Raptor cannot stop thinking about the woman that had stolen his heart. The $ex scenes are passionate and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of family and colorful secondary and supporting characters from the original Fury Vipers MC, and the author’s MADE series.

RAPTOR is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, family and friendships, brotherhood and love. The character driven premise is dark, dramatic and raw ; the age-gap romance is seductive but limited due to the time spent apart; the characters are determined, strong willed and dynamic.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one PREACHER

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

USA Today Bestselling Author Brooke Summers is a Mafia Romance author and is best known for her Made Series.

Brooke was born and raised in South London.   She lives with her daughter and hubby. Brooke has been an avid reader for many years.She’s a huge fan of Colleen Hoover and Kristen Ashley.

Brooke has been dreaming of writing for such a long time. When she was little, she would make up stories just for fun. Seems as though she was destined to become an author.

AUTHOR LINKS

Website: https://www.brookesummersbooks.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrookeSummersAuthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_brookesummers
Newsletter: https://www.brookesummersbooks.com/newsletter
Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/brookesummers
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/brooke-summers
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brookesummersauthor

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If I Were You by Cesca Major-review, interview & giveaway

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🩷If I Were You by Cesca Major-review, interview & giveaway🩷

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 24, 2024

Amy and Flynn have been dating for two years. And they love each other. Don’t they?

Only Amy can’t read Flynn’s mind and Flynn can’t read Amy’s. Little do they know this weekend is make or break.

Amy’s nervous older sister is getting married at the world’s swankiest wedding venue in rural Devon and is relying on her younger sister to be the perfect Chief Bridesmaid. Frustrations on the way to the wedding escalate until both Amy and Flynn are shouting at each other in a country lane during a thunderstorm. Why can’t they see things from the other’s point of view? When lightning strikes, Flynn and Amy are thrown to the ground, and when they stand back up they realize—they’ve switched bodies.

Forced to attend the glamorous wedding weekend as each other is surely an impossible task. With spa mornings, exes, flash mob rehearsals, speeches and more, getting through this swap will test their relationship to breaking point. And when they each discover big secrets in the other’s past—it seems that switching bodies could be the least of their problems. Even if they do manage to swap back—can their relationship survive?

•••

REVIEW:IF I WERE YOU by Cesca Major is a contemporary, adult, body-swap, romance story line focusing on Flynn Waller and Amy Norman.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Flynn and Amy) using present day and memories from the past, IF I WERE YOU focuses on the embattled relationship between our story line couple. Amy’s sister is getting married, and our couple is struggling with their own relationship but a sudden rain storm and flash of light results in a body swap between our story line couple. Having to attend the weekend activities in one another’s bodies, secrets are revealed, misunderstanding and miscommunication threaten the breakdown of their floundering relationship.

The world building follows the struggle of two people caught in an unimaginable situation but a situation that reveals a lifetime of secrets and regrets. Flynn is hoping for a future, Amy is battling between head and heart, reconsidering her relationship with our story line hero.

The secondary and supporting characters include Amy’s sister Laura and her fiance Jay, as well as Amy and Laura’s mother Trish, and her husband Geoffrey, and Flynn’s ex Tanya and her boyfriend Eddie.

IF I WERE YOU is a story with a little bit of everything: drama, heart break, humor and fantasy. The premise is entertaining and intriguing but often confusing as the reader had to remember the Amy/Flynn / Flynn/Amy dynamic. The characters are colorful and desperate. There is little to no romance as throughout most of the story line the embattled couple are not themselves, and the world around them is not what they expected.

Copy supplied for rview

Reviewed by Sandy

TRC: Hi Cesca, and welcome to The Reading Cafe. We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

SOCIAL MEDIA: Instagram / Facebook / X (Twitter) /  Amazon Author Page /

CESCA: I live in the UK with my husband and three children in a bungalow – so every time a friend of theirs visits I get asked why we don’t have stairs.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

CESCA: I grew up on a diet of Danielle Steele and Jilly Cooper who taught me books could be big and fun and clever and funny and I think that stuck with me. Up until then I’m not sure I thought books could be as entertaining as television, a film or a play and that idea went out of the window.

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

CESCA: It transpires writing a body swap novel is hard because you have to constantly try to remind the readers whose head you are in so they can picture what is happening – but do it in a subtle way. I think coming up with twists and surprises in the plot was always going to be a challenge too and I hope I’ve pulled that off.

TRC: Would you please tell us something about the premise of IF I WERE YOU?

CESCA: It’s about a couple – Amy and Flynn – who are in very different places in their relationship. They’re good together but communication is not great. On the way to Amy’s stressed sister’s wedding weekend they get into a huge row in the middle of a thunderstorm. Lightning strikes and they discover they have swapped bodies. They have to survive the wedding weekend as each other as they try to swap back…

TRC: What kind of research/plotting did you do, and how long did you spend researching /plotting before beginning IF I WERE YOU?

CESCA: I always have a detailed chapter outline and try to research as I go along. I interviewed some fancy wedding planners for this one which was great fun and also researched wedding venues with flamingos! I think I probably spend a lot of time (months, sometimes years) thinking about the plot but probably come up with an outline over a few months. It’s a working document and always changing as I write when the characters start to take over and fresh ideas hit you.

TRC: What were your thoughts and emotions when your book was featured on Reese Witherspoon’s book club?

CESCA: Well I was even luckier than most because I was kindly flown out to join the Hello Sunshine team at their annual Shine Away Event where it was announced live – so I got to meet Reese and the brilliant book team. That made it even more surreal and amazing. It’s such an amazing club to be a member of and I have met so many other RBC authors who all feel incredibly lucky to be part of such a wonderful group. The team truly adore books and are serious about lifting up stories by women – I love them.

TRC: Do you have plans for a series focusing on the secondary characters?

CESCA: Oh that would be fun. I think Reggie should get his own dog picture book series for starters.

TRC: Is any of the story line premise based in fact?

CESCA: I stole my son’s friend’s excellent name (Flynn) to be my hero but no the book isn’t based on fact. Some settings are – I lived in Bristol in England for seven years and still love to go back there so enjoyed basing Amy there. And I was born in Devon so enjoyed returning there for the wedding.

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

CESCA: I have written in a number of different genres – I write darker stuff as C D Major. Those books are always based loosely on something true, or supernatural and I fictionalise them. I love jumping from dark books to lighter books and I’m so lucky I get to be published in both.

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

CESCA: This was definitely a concern for a body swap! I think the character’s emotional responses have to be as real as you can make them. So if you know them well, know their back story then hopefully you know how they would specially react in any given scenario. Then I think the reader comes with you. Even if the plot itself is magical.

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?

CESCA: I know we shouldn’t judge by covers but inevitably we do and publishers have teams of people who work really hard to try to get covers to fit the book. I think the IF I WERE YOU cover is just so clever and reflects the tone and story perfectly. I think it’s harder in some genres sometimes to sign post to the reader what a book is and, with so many books out there, I think a cover can be a useful way of telling a reader “you might like this.” I do love shops that cover all books though and get you to choose a date with a book on the description alone. Such Fun.

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

CESCA: I try to control them but inevitably things get completely out of hand.

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?

CESCA: I think we need to know our characters so well to ensure the emotional responses feel genuine, and not hold back on taking the reader with us. I also think balancing the light with the dark helps too. So the reader doesn’t become numb to one emotion. I think some writers struggle to convey any emotion because they are too busy trying to get across the plot. I think that can be fixed in the edit.

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

CESCA: I have to have silence or just background noise. I wish I could listen to music but anything with lyrics is just a total distraction.

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

CESCA: I was a big Nintendo player as a child and appeared on TV aged 9 to compete in a Nintendo Challenge. I took my mascots on the show “Funky and Spunky” and the presenter lost the button on his Mario dungarees halfway through our episode. I lost to an eleven year old and did not take it well.

TRC: What are you currently working on?

CESCA: I’m currently working on another big love story with a hefty dose of magical realism. This time it’s not an established love but first love and focuses on what makes someone perfect for you.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

CESCA: Thank you so much for having me and for reading IF I WERE YOU!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food Any sweet stuff – coffee cake, donuts etc

Favorite Dessert – Lemon Meringue Pie

Favorite TV Show – probably HACKS and I am desperate for the return of SEVERANCE

Last Movie You Saw – I rewatched The Lord of the Rings because I listened to the brilliant What went wrong podcast about the making of it.

Dark or Milk Chocolate – Milk

Secret Celebrity Crush – there is nothing secret about my love for Julia Roberts.

Last Vacation Destination – Cornwall on the west coast of England

Do you have any pets? I have three children

Last book you read – the gorgeous UNDER YOUR SPELL by Laura Wood

 

The Reading Cafe and HARPER COLLINS are graciously offering a paper copy of IF I WERE YOU to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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

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

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

3. Please LIKE Cesca Major on Facebook

4. Please LIKE/FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. Please LIKE and FOLLOW Harper Collins on Facebook for an addition entry.

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7. Please FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

9. Giveaway open to USA only

10. Giveaway runs from September 26-30, 2024

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SUNDAY MORNING by Jewel E Ann-review

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SUNDAY MORNING by Jewel E Ann-review

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

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

Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4caMm5y

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 26, 2024

Her boyfriend’s older brother should be off-limits, but he’s a sinful temptation.

Sarah is a preacher’s daughter and a people pleaser. She’s also on the verge of graduating high school and following her dream of singing in Nashville. The only thing standing in her way is that the entire town of Devil’s Head, Missouri, thinks she will marry Matt, the son of the town’s richest rancher.

But Sarah’s not sure he’s her future husband, especially when his older brother, Isaac, returns home after serving six years in the Army. He has tattoos on his arms and bad habits that are not “father-approved.”

When he’s not working on the ranch or roping at the rodeo, Isaac hangs out in the barn, playing his guitar. He’s trouble, but Sarah’s music-loving heart gravitates toward him.
Isaac loves consuming Sarah’s mind, crawling under her skin, backing her into corners, and whispering inappropriate things in her innocent ears.

After weeks of playful banter and guitar lessons blurring the line between right and wrong, Issac makes Sarah a proposition she can’t refuse.

But when the unthinkable happens, and everything she knows is destroyed, will Sarah make the right choice?

•••••

REVIEW: SUNDAY MORNING by Jewel E Ann is a new adult, romance story line set in 1985 focusing eighteen year old preacher’s daughter Sarah Jacobsen, and twenty-four year old, former US soldier /rancher Isaac Cory.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Sarah and Isaac) SUNDAY MORNING follows the building romance and relationship between Sarah and Isaac, and the slow spiral of a life-long friendship, secrets and lies.

Sarah Jacobsen is the eldest daughter of Devil’s Head preacher Pastor Peter Cory, and as such, every aspect of her life is predicated upon the Church and God. Her future has been mapped out including her relationships and marriage to the local hero Matt Cory but it is Matt’s brother Isaac who stirs something deep within our story line heroine. Devil’s Head, a small town Peyton Place, keeps its’ secrets close to the heart but the truth will eventually destroy many lives. What ensues is the breakdown of Matt and Sarah’s relationship, and the building love between two people whose lives will implode when those who claim to be virtuous sit in judgement of their own.

The world building is flooded with Christian religious undertones from commandments to morality, purity and God. Virginity is a social construct driven by religion, and in this, our heroine will pay the price for loving Isaac Cory, a man not approved by her father or the town. Sarah grew up in an ultra-conservative, religious family and her naivety is often at the forefront of her social world.

The relationship between Isaac and Sarah is one of immediate attraction. Sarah is in a relationship with Isaac’s younger brother Matt but a relationship that is awkward, innocent, expected and forced by both families. Isaac is the local bad boy whose reputation was destroyed and perpetuated by secrets and lies; Sarah sees something in Isaac including a way to break free from the stifling world in which she grew, a man whose own heart begins to beat from the love of our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Sarah’s sisters Eve and Gabby whose own secret rebellion is just starting to grow; their parents Pastor Peter and Janet Jacobsen; Sarah’s best friend Heather, and Joanna; Matt and Isaac’s parents Wesley and Violet Cory.

SUNDAY MORNING is as story of secrets and lies, betrayal and infidelity, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The premise is emotional and heart breaking; the romance is impassioned; the characters are determined and charismatic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Jewel is a free-spirited romance junkie with a quirky sense of humor.

With 10 years of flossing lectures under her belt, she took early retirement from her dental hygiene career to stay home with her three awesome boys and manage the family business.

After her best friend of nearly 30 years suggested a few books from the Contemporary Romance genre, Jewel was hooked. Devouring two and three books a week but still craving more, she decided to practice sustainable reading, AKA writing.

When she’s not donning her cape and saving the planet one tree at a time, she enjoys yoga with friends, good food with family, rock climbing with her kids, watching How I Met Your Mother reruns, and of course…heart-wrenching, tear-jerking, panty-scorching novels.

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