Book Review: The Runaway (Bane Island #1) by Lisa Childs

 

Title: The Runaway (Bane Island #1)

Author:  Lisa Childs

Stars: 2 1\2

Review:

Lisa Childs story The Runaway is a mess from the different points of view to the romance that doesn't make since.  The story feels forced as do the characters in the different scenes.  The story lacks a natural flow the authors has shown many times before.  The synopsis and the story do not match leaving readers wondering what are they reading?

The book lacked any flow that would keep readers wanting to finish the story.  As a reader I struggled to finish the story that seem to stall out and end with a unexpected twist.

Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy of Lisa Childs The Runaway.

Synopsis:

Rosemary Tulle has come to Halcyon Hall desperate to find her younger sister. Seventeen-year-old Genevieve left a brief, troubling message on Rosemary's phone, begging to be picked up. But Rosemary is not on the visitor list, and no one will let her in . . .

Halcyon Hall was once Bainesworth Manor, an asylum for the insane. Such places often draw whispers about gruesome treatments and tortured inmates. In the case of Bainesworth, the reality may have been far worse. Now, staff insist that Genevieve ran away, but Rosemary's instincts say otherwise. Rosemary and Genevieve share an unsual bond, and she knows Genevieve wouldn't have just left. Compelled to turn for help to a man she hoped never to see again, judge Whit Lawrence, she tries to learn the truth about Genevieve. But it will mean uncovering secrets about Bainsworth Manor, and about Rosemary's own dark past--secrets with the power to kill . .

About The Author:

Born one dark and stormy Halloween night, Lisa Childs was predestined to write suspense novels. She loves spinning dark and twisty stories that keep readers awake because they’re either too busy turning pages or too scared to sleep. Lisa Childs is the prolific author of more than seventy published novels. In addition to romantic suspense, she also writes women’s fiction, paranormal and contemporary romance.

Book Review: Wicked Wolves and Tangled Truths (Blood and Magic: Hellbound #1) by Danielle Annett

 

Title: Wicked Wolves and Tangled Truths (Blood and Magic: Hellbound #1) 

Author: Danielle Annett

Stars: 3 1\2 

Review:

I honestly can't figure out if this story because while it has a good message hidden in the story about bullying it gets lost in the story.  The final scene or moment that is suppose to have readers excited for doesn't really happen.  It was disappointing and lack any conviction for readers to believe in the female lead character. 

Wicked Wolves and Tangled Truths is what kept this reader from reading more Paranormal Romantic suspense stories because it lacks a focus and a ending that will hook readers wanting more.

Thank you to the Netgalley for a copy of Wicked Wolves and Tangled Truths by Danielle Annett.

Synopsis:

I never wanted to go to this stupid school. I had a life before coming here. A Pack. People who cared about me. But all of that is torn away when my mother dies, my boyfriend cheats on me, and my very human father rips me away from the only life I’ve ever known.

I thought my life couldn’t get much worse, but Hellbound High is about to prove me wrong. Just by showing up, I've caught the attention of the local Alpha’s son. Goody.

He’s arrogant, stubborn, and used to getting what he wants. Sometimes that’s to get into my pants. Sometimes it’s to make my life hell. He runs hot one minute and cold the next, leaving my head spinning.

But I have bigger problems than the school’s resident hot werewolf. I’m a lone wolf in a new town, which means I have a big red target on my back.

Kindle Edition

Published September 15th 2020

About The Author:

I'm just a girl with an obsession for Marvel movies, a love of all things Urban Fantasy, and a cheerleader for the underdog in any given story.

If you're looking for a heroine you can root for ... someone who defies the odds and gets up every time they're knocked down ... then look no further because that's what you'll find in my books.

I hope you'll join me in Aria Naveed's adventures. She's pretty badass if I do say so myself.

Book Review: Below the Bones (Widow's Island #5) by Kendra Elliot

 

Title: Below the Bones (Widow's Island #5) 

Author: Kendra Elliot

Stars: 5

Review:

This short novella has everything readers expect from Kendra Elliot suspense, mystery and action. Cate Wilde is Nancy Drew all grown up and readers will not be able to get enough of the Widow Island Novella series.  Thank you Netgalley and the Publisher for the advance copy of Below The Bones by Kendra Elliot.

Synopsis:

Former FBI special agent Cate Wilde is a new bakery and bookstore owner—and retirement is now complete with a doctor boyfriend. Although she struggles with PTSD, the sweet life she’s living is a far cry from the gruesome work she left behind six months ago.

But when skeletal remains turn up on Widow’s Island—and the MO of the killer is too familiar to Cate—the dream comes to an abrupt end. What if the case she solved eight years ago isn’t as closed as she thought? Her hometown needs her, and despite her mental health and her boyfriend’s protests, she has no choice but to return to her dangerous past life.

Soon Cate is in a desperate race to stop a cold-blooded murderer from killing again, once and for all…only this time, she’ll have so much more to lose.

Kindle Edition, 91 pages

Published October 27th 2020 by Montlake

About The Author:

She grew up in the lush Pacific Northwest and still lives there with her family and three cats. She's fascinated with forensics, refuses to eat anything green, and dreams of living every day in flip flops.

Book Review: Fatal Deception (Steele Ops #3) by April Hunt

 

Title: Fatal Deception (Steele Ops #3)

Author: April Hunt 

Stars: 5

Review:

I will admit the Steele Ops series is hot Hot HOT!!  April Hunt bring Roman out of the darkness and into the light with a woman and story that will have readers needing water and a fan. 

The story fit perfectly into the Steele ops series and what is happening in the world today.  Reader will figure out the the Madman behind the killer virus as the story flows even before the characters that are trying to save the world. While the Madman is killing he is doing it with a purpose that connects into the real world.  The story has romance, edge and fiesty characters that refuse to give up or give in.  The brother rip on each other which is entering. 

The author shows the love of family. Readers will connect with the different characters and excited for the next in the series.

Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy of April Hunt Fatal Deception.

Synopsis:

Roman Steele learned a hard lesson about trusting others. While serving his country, he put his faith in the wrong person and lost a leg for his loyalty. So far, civilian life suits him---as long as he doesn't have to deal with anyone. But when he's called in to investigate a break-in at a high-security lab, he finds himself butting heads with the lead virologist, a woman as infuriating as she is beautiful.

When criminals break into Isabel Santiago's lab and steal a deadly virus, she's desperate to find the culprits before they turn her research into a weapon. But first, she must put her trust in the brooding security expert who sees danger around every corner. As she and Roman race to track down the culprits, these two unlikely partners find there's more at stake for them than they ever imagined possible---but only if they stop the enemy in time.

About The Author:

April blames her chocolate addiction on being born near the country chocolate capital in Hershey, Pennsylvania. When April's not busy raising her husband and two young children (yes, that's worded correctly), she can be found writing about her next brooding alpha hero and the woman who can easily bring him to his knees.

Book Review: You Betrayed Me (The Cahills #3) by Lisa Jackson

 

Title: You Betrayed Me (The Cahills #3) 

Author: Lisa Jackson

Stars: 3 1\2

Review:

Lisa Jackson has been writing for years and has been best seller not all are perfect and some of her books feel rushed or dated at times.

The story starts off with a jaded lover wanting to run away from life. Next boyfriend wakes up with no memory and a detective who dislikes him right away. The plot is basic and readers will be able to figure out the whole story before the detectives even step foot into the victims house.

The characters are flat, typical and boring at times. To change things up the author gives the male lead detective a special gift of site that he keeps from his partner.  Simple questions are never asked drawing out the obvious part of the story.

Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for the advance copy of Lisa Jackson You Betrayed Me

Synopsis:

The Cahills of San Francisco are famous for two things: their vast wealth, and the scandals that surround them. Murder, greed, deadly ambition . . . some people will do anything to get, and keep, the Cahills' kind of money. Not that James Cahill wants any of it. He's tried to make his own way, less interested in a future inheritance than in his construction company--and in enjoying the many women taken in by the easy charms of a handsome, soon-to-be-rich bad boy.

Perhaps there've been too many women. Waking up in a small hospital in Washington State, bandaged and bruised, James barely recognizes the gorgeous blonde who comes to visit. Through the haze of pain and medication, he recalls that she is Sophia, the woman he's been cheating with. Gradually memories return--his girlfriend, Megan, had found out about Sophia. Now Megan is missing, her sister, Rebecca, is hounding him--and police and reporters are asking questions too. James insists he has no idea what happened. Yet he can't escape a feeling of dread . . .

Meanwhile, in a locked room, a woman waits, trapped, petrified, and desperate. She thought she knew who to trust. But the betrayal you can't imagine--or can't remember--may be the most terrifying weapon of all .

Hardcover, 448 pages

Expected publication: October 27th 2020 by Kensington Publishing Corporation

About The Author:

Before she became a nationally bestselling author, Lisa Jackson was a mother struggling to keep food on the table by writing novels, hoping against hope that someone would pay her for them. Today, neck deep in murder, her books appear on The New York Times, the USA Today, and the Publishers Weekly national bestseller lists.

With over thirty bestsellers to her name, Lisa Jackson is a master of taking readers to the edge of sanity – and back – in novels that buzz with dangerous secrets and deadly passions.  She continues to be fascinated by the minds and motives of both her killers and their pursuers—the personal, the professional and downright twisted.  As she builds the puzzle of relationships, actions, clues, lies and personal histories that haunt her protagonists, she must also confront the fear and terror faced by her victims, and the harsh and enduring truth that, in the real world, terror and madness touch far too many lives and families. 

Book Review: Try As I Smite (Brimstone Inc. #4) by Abigail Owen

 

Title: Try As I Smite (Brimstone Inc. #4)

Author: Abigail Owen

Stars: 3 1\2

Review:

This is not a stand alone novel so to say I was a little lost would be an understatement.  As soon as I realized the story twist is Abigail Owens A Christmas Carol the story has a decent flow to the story.

While I did read book 3 the story didn't stick enough for me to remember the characters.

The characters are entertaining enough and the romance was a slow burn from the beginning of the story.  Try as I smite has a decent flow but at times the forced humor took away from the story. The ending wasn't what I had expected but it works for those who have been waiting for this book.

Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy of Abigail Owen Try as I Smite.

Sysnpsis:

Bah humbug just got a lot darker. 

Alasdair Blakesley is the head of the Covens Syndicate. He shouldn’t need to look beyond the witches and warlocks he governs, or his own abilities, to solve any problem. But a demon infestation means he can’t trust anyone who may be possessed. The last person he wants to ask for help is also the only person who can fix this, so he sucks up his pride and storms into her office.

And she turns him down cold.

As the owner of Brimstone Inc., Delilah’s passion is helping others with their supernatural problems. But Alasdair is the last man Delilah wants to tangle with. The infuriating man sees too much and demands even more. And did she mention the way he sets her body on fire?

Not that it matters—demons are the only things with which she cannot interfere. Too bad a higher power steps in and sends them both on a crash course of each others’ pasts, presents, and futures.

How is a Christmas Carol nightmare supposed to solve his demon problem without breaking the rules she’s bound by?

About The Author:

Do you love plots that move hot and fast, feisty heroines with sass, heroes with heart, a dash of snark, and oodles of HEAs? You do?!?! Welcome!

Abigail Owen is a multi-award-winning author of paranormal romance and upper YA/new adult fantasy romance. Other favorite titles include wife, mother, Star Wars geek, ex-competitive skydiver, spreadsheet lover, Dr. Seuss quoter, eMBA, organizational guru, Texan, Aggie, and chocaholic.

Abigail grew up consuming books and exploring the world through her writing. She attempted to find a practical career related to her favorite pastime by earning a degree in English Rhetoric (Technical Writing) and an MBA. However, she swiftly discovered that writing without imagination is not nearly as fun as writing with it. She currently resides in Austin, Texas, with her own personal, swoon-worthy hero and their two children, who are growing up way too fast.

Abigail also writes award-winning steamy contemporary romance and romantic comedy as Kadie Scott (kadie-scott.com), and sweet contemporary romance and Amish romance as Kristen McKanagh (kristenmckanagh.com).

For the latest news and exclusive excerpts

Book Review: Cold as Ice (Lucy Kincaid #17) by Allison Brennan

 

Title: Cold as Ice (Lucy Kincaid #17) 

Author: Allison Brennan 

Stars: 5

Review:

Allison Brennan some how is able to write page 17 and still bring something new and different to Lucy Kincaid story.  I have only read a handful of the Lucy Kincaid story.  Allison Brennan is able to always bring readers up to date while keeping the story moving forward. The characters have grown up with the readers to the point everyone is almost like family.  

Cold as Ice will not disappoint reader as the story continues from the last book No Way Out.  With the death of a character in the last book.  New readers will not be lost and will find themselves wanting to know more about Lucy and her loyal tribe that will do anything to protect Lucy and her family.

The story is fast pace. Readers will feel the fear tha Lucy feels as she is trying to protect the man she loves and find out the truth.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of Allison Brennan Cold as Ice.

Synopsis:

Two years ago, FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid put psychopath Elise Hansen Hunt in juvenile detention for her role in an organized crime syndicate. Now eighteen, Elise has been released with a clean slate, and plans to take her revenge by making Lucy’s life hell. The plot begins with Lucy’s husband Sean Rogan, who has been arrested for a murder he most certainly did not commit.

Lucy is determined to prove Sean’s innocence, but is warned off the case by her boss. As she calls in reinforcements, she learns that Sean’s brother Kane is missing in Mexico, her partner Nate Dunning has been arrested for possession of cocaine, and her friend Brad Donnelly has been kidnapped outside DEA headquarters. Lucy realizes that Elise doesn’t have the resources or patience to execute such a devious plan. Did Elise’s father orchestrate everything from prison? Or is there someone even more calculating seeking revenge on Lucy by hurting the people she loves?

Paperback, 480 pages

Expected publication: October 27th 2020 by Minotaur Books

About The Author:

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Allison Brennan believes that life is too short to be bored, so she had five children and writes three books a year.

40 books and numerous short stories later, Allison relocated in 2019 from Northern California to Arizona with her husband and two youngest children.

She currently writes the Lucy Kincaid/Sean Rogan thriller series, and launched the Quinn & Costa thrillers this year with THE THIRD TO DIE. Catherine Coulter called it an "amazing new series" and Kirkus Reviews says Kara Quinn is "A strong and damaged protagonist as compelling as Lisbeth Salander."

Book Review: Deadly Past (Verona Bay #2) by Katie Reus

 

Title: Deadly Past (Verona Bay #2) 

Author:  Katie Reus 

Stars: 4

Review:

I have read many series by Katie Reus and many who have read my review knows that for me the author is a hit or miss.  This story works will and flows with the grace of a teenager at his first dance.  The story uses the easiest way to get two characters together with very little effort between the two characters. 

The author uses this story to set up the next in the series.  With the tight knit characters that are all in the friend zone each one circling each other waiting to pounce on their one true love.

The author has a way of writing that even though it is basic it will pull reader into the world of Verona Bay each character readers are able to connect with. The writing is perfect flow for readers of simple romantic suspense stories. 

Thank you to Netgalley and the author for a advance copy of Katie Rues Deadly Past.

Synopsis:

Autumn Perez was just twenty-two when she witnessed a brutal murder and gave up her entire life to put the killer behind bars. A decade later, witness protection has her settled in picturesque Verona Bay, teaching art at the local high school. It’s a quiet life…until she’s caught up in another harrowing event and she worries that the US Marshals will try to move her again. But Autumn is done running—she’s built a life, has friends. And now she’s pregnant after an intense one-night stand with her sexy neighbor.

Lincoln Jordan has been biding his time with Autumn, his talented, gorgeous neighbor. The attraction between them is undeniable, and after their one incredible night together he wants more. But she’s determined to keep him at arm’s length. When it becomes clear that someone wants her dead, he steps up to protect her. He needs to earn her trust, and fast. Because the enemy is closer than they ever imagined.

About The Author:

Katie Reus is the New York Times, USA Today, & IndieReader bestselling author of the Red Stone Security series, the Moon Shifter series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom's stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it. However, she didn't always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense. 

Book Review: Kitty's Mix-Tape (Kitty Norville #16) by Carrie Vaughn

 

Title: Kitty's Mix-Tape (Kitty Norville #16) 

Author: Carrie Vaughn 

Stars: 4 1\2

Review:

Starting off I haven't read anything by Carrie Vaughn and I didn't know this was book 16 in a series of novellas.

I highly recommend as a reader if this sounds interesting to read than go back and read the other books first because I can promise you no matter how hard the author tries to update new readers you will get lost.

The author has written many different series that are brought together in this short story that if you are a fan will love to reconnect with the many different characters in her Urban, supernatural, paranormal world she has created.

Kitty is likable and is a quick read for those who love these type of stories.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of Carrie Vaughn Kitty's Mix-Tape

Synopsis:

Kitty Norville still can’t stay away from trouble of the supernatural kind.

Everyone’s favorite werewolf DJ is here to mix it up just one last time. Here you will find, or even newly discover, the irrepressible Kitty Norville with friends and enemies alike: Rick the vampire; Jessi Hardin, paranormal detective; Kitty’s husband Ben; Cormac, the bounty hunter; and the villainous Dux Bellorum. These irresistible tales are full of unpredictable twists and turns: lupines experimenting with astronomy, a cheating boxer with preternatural strength, vampires arriving from the Philippines.

As a special treat, author Carrie Vaughn (Bannerless) has provided her own selections for a mix-tape: story notes and songs dedicated to each tale.

So whatever you do, don't miss Kitty before she is gone.

Kindle Edition, 288 pages

Expected publication: October 16th 2020

About The Author:

Carrie Vaughn is the author more than twenty novels and over a hundred short stories. She's best known for her New York Times bestselling series of novels about a werewolf named Kitty who hosts a talk radio advice show for the supernaturally disadvantaged. In 2018, she won the Philip K. Dick Award for Bannerless, a post-apocalyptic murder mystery. Next up for her: two collections connected to the Kitty series – The Immortal Conquistador and Kitty's Mix Tape – and a pair of novellas about Robin Hood: The Ghosts of Sherwood and The Heirs of Locksley. She's a contributor to the Wild Cards series of shared world superhero books edited by George R. R. Martin and a graduate of the Odyssey Fantasy Writing Workshop.

An Air Force brat, she survived her nomadic childhood and managed to put down roots in Boulder, Colorado.

Book Review: Who Speaks for the Damned (Sebastian St. Cyr #15) by C.S. Harris

 

Title: Who Speaks for the Damned (Sebastian St. Cyr #15)

Author: C.S. Harris

Stars: 4

Review:

A disgraced Lord, who had been tried, found guilty, transported, and thought to have died years earlier, is found murdered in a paid public park. While society apparently, it appears, does not care about the demised Lord our hero takes an interest. During the course of his investigation other murders occur which he is able to tie to the original murder. Through solid investigating he is able to solve all, including the original crime, for which the disgraced Lord was transported.

A very good early 19th century offering which should hold the readers attention. I have rated this book 4 stars.

I received an ARC from Netgalley for my unbiased review of this book.

Synopsis:

It's June 1814, and the royal families of Austria, Russia, and the German states have gathered in London at the Prince Regent's invitation to celebrate the defeat of Napoléon and the restoration of monarchical control throughout Europe. But the festive atmosphere is marred one warm summer evening by the brutal murder of a disgraced British nobleman long thought dead.

Eighteen years before, Nicholas Hayes, the third son of the late Earl of Seaford, was accused of killing a beautiful young French émigré and transported to Botany Bay for life. Even before his conviction, Hayes had been disowned by his father. Few in London were surprised when they heard the ne'er-do-well had died in New South Wales in 1799. But those reports were obviously wrong. Recently Hayes returned to London with a mysterious young boy in tow--a child who vanishes shortly after Nicholas's body is discovered.

Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Devlin, is drawn into the investigation by his valet, Jules Calhoun. With Calhoun's help, Sebastian begins to piece together the shattered life of the late Earl's ill-fated youngest son. Why did Nicholas risk his life and freedom by returning to England? And why did he bring the now-missing young boy with him? Several nervous Londoners had reason to fear that Nicholas Hayes had returned to kill them. One of them might have decided to kill him first. 

Published April 7th 2020 by Berkley Books

About the Author:

Candice graduated Phi Beta Kappa, summa cum laude with a degree in Classics before going on to earn an MA and Ph.D. in history. A former academic, she has taught at the University of Idaho and Midwestern State University in Texas. She also worked as an archaeologist on a variety of sites including a Hudson's Bay Company Fort in San Juan Island, a Cherokee village in Tennessee, a prehistoric kill site in Victoria, Australia, and a Roman cemetery and medieval manor house in Winchester, England. Most recently, she spent many years as a partner in an international business consulting firm.

The daughter of a career Air Force officer and university professor, Proctor loves to travel and has spent much of her life abroad. She has lived in Spain, Greece, England, France, Jordan, and Australia. She now makes her home in New Orleans, Louisiana, with her husband, retired Army officer Steve Harris, her two daughters, and an ever-expanding number of cats.

Book Review: The Peasant's Dream (Hagenheim #11) by Melanie Dickerson

 

Title: The Peasant's Dream (Hagenheim #11)

Author: Melanie Dickerson 

Stars: 3.5

Review:

A reverse Cinderella story which is easy to read but predictable. I easily read the entire story in two settings. In summary,  the poor mistreated hero manages to start pulling himself up by his proverbial bootstraps and in the process falls in love with a village maiden. But this maiden is not what she appears to be. She is not a village maiden but the youngest daughter of the local Duke who has snuck out, in disguise, in order to visit the village market. Mutual attraction is disrupted by unforeseen circumstances. But just like Cinderella, dreams and expections, have a way of becoming reality.

I will admit the story was in a different time period and country than I would normally read. However, that said, I have rated the book 3.5 stars. I enjoyed the fact that the author did not have to stoop to pages of blaten sex scenes to tell the story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thank you Netgalley.

Synopsis:

Adela is the youngest daughter of Duke Wilhelm of Hagenheim and is never allowed outside of the castle walls. She loves her family, but she sneaks away one day to the market in the town center. There she meets a handsome young man and wonders what it might be like to fall in love with a poor farmer with a kind heart instead of marrying the man her family is suggesting for her.

Frederick earns the income for his family and defends his mother from his father’s drunken rages. He also uses his talent and creativity to carve figures, animals, and scenes into wood, and he's asked to carve these scenes into cathedral doors when his talent is noticed. Frederick is inspired by the sweet and beautiful Adela, but he has no knowledge of her true identity. When he gets swept up into a plan to kidnap the duke’s daughter, both are shaken by what they learn about the other.

With the heartbroken Adela resigned to an arranged marriage with her noble suitor, Frederick must decide what he’s willing to risk for love. 

About The Author:

Melanie Dickerson is a New York Times bestselling author, a two-time Christy Award finalist, two-time Maggie Award winner, Carol Award winner, two-time winner of the Christian Retailing's Best award, and her book, The Healer's Apprentice, won the National Readers Choice Award for Best First Book. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Romance Writers of America (RWA). Melanie earned a bachelors degree in special education of the hearing impaired from The University of Alabama and has worked as a teacher in Georgia, Tennessee, and Ukraine. She lives with her husband and two children in Huntsville, Alabama.

Book Review:The Girls in the Snow (Nikki Hunt #1) by Stacy Green

Title: The Girls in the Snow (Nikki Hunt #1)

Author: Stacy Green 

Stars: 5

Review:

Stacy Green brings a small town in Minnesota with a dark past that will have readers unable to put the story down.  Nikki Hunt has a story that she doesn't want to keep telling and when a person is murdered in her hometown everything comes crashing in.  She refuses to give into what people are expecting and demanding.  

Nikki is a hard characters to to love but as the story progresses shows that she isn't cold but passionate about about what she knows is true.

While The Girls in the Snow is the first in a new series readers will feel they are missing a story or two with the way the different characters connect and work together. 

Being a Minnesota girl and living about 2 hours away from Stillwater I can honestly say this author painted the city perfectly not to mention the cold and snow.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of Stacy Green The Girls in the Snow.

Synopsis:

In the remote forests of Stillwater, Minnesota, you can scream for days and no one will hear you. So when the bodies of two fifteen-year-old girls are discovered frozen in the snow, Special Agent Nikki Hunt is sure the killer is local: someone knew where to hide them and thought they'd never be found.

Home for the first time in twenty years, Nikki sees that the whole town had been frantically searching for missing best friends Madison and Kaylee, and when she finds out who Madison’s step-father is, she becomes desperate to lead the case. John was once the person she trusted most in the world, who stood by her when she was just sixteen and her parents were murdered. Who supported her when she identified their killer, Mark Todd.

But when Nikki arrives at the Sheriff’s office, she’s confronted by protesters eager to see Mark freed. With new evidence that could clear his name, Mark has appealed his conviction and his brother Rory begs Nikki to take a look at what they’ve found.

Nikki knows she must focus on the killer at large, but Rory makes her wonder if she put her trust in the right people all those years ago. Are Madison and Kaylee’s deaths connected to her parents’ murders? And can she face up to her past before another life is taken? 

Kindle Edition

Expected publication: October 19th 2020 by Bookouture

About The Author:

Stacy Green is the author of the Lucy Kendall thriller series and the Delta Crossroads mystery trilogy. ALL GOOD DEEDS (Lucy Kendall #1) won a bronze medal for mystery and thriller at the 2015 IPPY Awards. TIN GOD (Delta Crossroads #1) was runner-up for best mystery/thriller at the 2013 Kindle Book Awards.

Stacy has a love of thrillers and crime fiction, and she is always looking for the next dark and twisted novel to enjoy. She started her career in journalism before becoming a stay at home mother and rediscovering her love of writing. She lives in Iowa with her husband and daughter and their three spoiled fur babies.

She is currently working on a new crime fiction series and is represented by Italia Gandolfo of Gandolfo, Helin and Fountain Literary Management for literary and dramatic rights.

Book Review: The Nidderdale Murders (Yorkshire Murder Mysteries #5) by J.R. Ellis

 

Title: The Nidderdale Murders (Yorkshire Murder Mysteries #5) 

Author: J.R. Ellis

Stars: 3.5 

Review:

For fans of good solid English Police murder mysteries this will be a very pleasant and enjoyable read. I enjoyed the story and thought the basic plot was well thought out and presented. It is a murder mystery with a twist. However, the final few pages wandered off into an area I felt did not belong in the story. Although, it blended well into setting a background for future stories/murders involving the main character.

I have rated this book 3.5 stars.

I received an ARC from Netgalley for my unbiased review. The above is 

my view based on my reading and understanding of the story.

Synopsis:

A retired judge is shot dead outside the Dog and Gun inn in the remote Yorkshire village of Niddersgill. There’s a witness who saw everything, and the gunman’s on the run; the case should be open-and-shut for DCI Jim Oldroyd. But the murderer had no motive for wanting Sandy Fraser dead and, what’s more, no trace of him can be found.

As Oldroyd and his team cast the net wider, they discover that Fraser wasn’t without enemies in Niddersgill. As the wealthy owner of a grouse moor, he’d clashed with farmers, debtors, hunt saboteurs and blackmailers. But none of them were at the scene of the murder. And when a local shopkeeper is gunned down in a second senseless attack, it’s clear that these killings are anything but random.

Surrounded by the dramatic beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, Oldroyd faces a race against time to connect the crimes and find who’s behind them. But with all the evidence sending him down dead ends, can he get one step ahead before someone else is killed?

About The Author:

During a long career teaching English, I wrote plays for children and occasional ghost stories. I have always been fascinated by the paranormal and by mysteries, conspiracy theories and unexplained crimes.
My love of my native county is deep and the settings of my Yorkshire Murder Mysteries within Yorkshire's varied landscapes are important. I have made a study of the sub-genre of the Locked Room Mystery during the height of its popularity between 1930 - 1960 in the stories of writers such as John Dickson Carr, Clayton Rawson and Ellery Queen. I was an avid watcher of BBC's "Jonathan Creek" in its heyday. I believe the element of puzzle is essential to crime fiction and my novels contain a double mystery: the standard "who dunnit?" but also "how dunnit?!"
I avoid the dark and gruesome in my writing and I strive to include some humour and elegance in style, a vivid sense of place and a compelling mystery! My characters both innocent and guilty are mostly ordinary people.
I am a member of a writers' group in Otley which has inspired me to write poetry and various forms of short fiction.

Book Review: Looking for a Cowboy (Heart of Texas #5) by Donna Grant

 

Title: Looking for a Cowboy (Heart of Texas #5) 

Author: Donna Grant 

Stars: 4.5 

Review:

It is very unusual, for me, to find myself in a quandary when writing a book review. However, in this instance, that is where I found myself after I finished this great book. I started by trying to decide if it was a love story (as suggested by the title), murder (of pregnant women), subsequent removal and kidnapping of their child, or betrayal by a trusted friend. After a week of pondering I have concluded that it is a combination of all the above. It appealed to me on so many levels that I find myself unable to fit it into any one primary category. I could write a synopsis for you the reader to contemplate but, I think, what I have already written should be more than enough to peak your interest if you enjoy any, or all, of the above sub categories.

I very much recommend this book if you are looking for a change of pace. I have rated this book 4.5 stars.

I received an ARC from Netgalley for my unbiased and honest review of this book

Thank you Frank for your review

Synopsis:

A beautiful stranger has come to Clearview, asking questions that are nobody’s business. Cooper Owens also wasn’t born yesterday. He knows that this out-of-towner is hiding a dark secret of her own. Much as he knows he should head in the other direction, he can’t make himself turn away. . .

P.I. Marlee Frampton always wanted to lead a nice quiet life, working as a cop in her local police department. But that dream came to an end when her sister was murdered―and her baby kidnapped. Now Marlee’s come to Texas to investigate the Harpers, who may be linked to shady adoption agencies. Cooper can’t believe that his friends could be involved in anything so sinister...and soon he makes it his mission to help Marlee discover the truth―and keep her safe in his arms.

About The Author

Donna travels often for various speaking engagements, conferences, and book signings. She is also a frequent workshop presenter at national conferences such as RT Book Lovers Convention and Thrillerfest, as well as local chapters.

Born and raised in Texas, she also has ties across the border in Louisiana. Growing up with two such vibrant cultures, her Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding. She is never far from her faithful 80 pound dog, Sisko, or her three cats. She can often be found at the movies or bookstore with her children. Or buying makeup. And shoes.

Book Review: Guardian's Grace (Dark Protectors #12) by Rebecca Zanetti

Title: Guardian's Grace (Dark Protectors #12) 

Author: Rebecca Zanetti 

Stars: 4

Review:
Readers are finally going to get to see what happened with Grace!
The story is very much like her others in this series with a annoyed Alpha who hates that his mate or future mate refuses to listen to what they have to say.  Grace wants to right the wrong and give the man she has the hots for a life he wants and not the one he gets.
Adare is the same as Grace wanting to give her the she needs not the one he gave her.  The both have the hots for each other and have lots of steamy hot hot time together.
The story gives readers more insight into the plans of the bad guys and what they want to achieve.

The story moves forwards and the male characters pretty much stay the same back story keeps moving forward.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy.

Synopsis:
Vampire soldier Adare O’Cearbhaill’s default setting is cranky. Or irritated. Or down-right hostile. Still, as a Highlander of honor and duty he stepped up to save an enhanced and special human female by mating her—with merely a bite and a brand. The last person he wants in his life is a fragile human, yet he can’t get her out of his mind as she regains her strength before taking off for parts unknown. And when he discovers she is in danger, nothing can stop him from hunting her down—whether she likes it or not.

Photographer Grace Cooper has had it with vampires, demons, and the rest of an immortal world she was happier not knowing about. She also doesn’t believe she’s destined for some great battle because of an old birthmark. Forget the fact that her mate is the sexiest thing on two stubborn feet, or that her brand is fading along with her health. She’ll handle things on her own—until an old enemy reappears and she learns the only way to stay alive is to actually mate, wild sex and all, with that ripped and dangerous Adare—a powerful, captivating Highlander who demands nothing less than everything .

Kindle Edition

Expected publication: October 13th 2020 by Lyrical Press

About The Author:
New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner - only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She writes dark paranormals, romantic suspense, and sexy contemporary romances.

Book Review: Black Sun (Between Earth and Sky #1) by Rebecca Roanhorse

 

Title: Black Sun (Between Earth and Sky #1) 

Author: Rebecca Roanhorse 

Stars: 4

Review:

Black Sun is the first in this new series by Rebecca Roanhorse. 

Black Sun story surrounds 4 characters different points of view.  The author create a world that some readers will fall in love with and find the magical side of the story while others will be lost in the author creative world and use of language. 

The author leaves readers with a cliffhanger that will keep readers excited for the next in the series or passing by.  This is one of the those you will love or dislike the book.  There is no inbetween.

The author has a ability to create a world with her use of english language painting a picture that readers will feeling they are in the middle of the world seeing life though the eyes of those they are reading.

Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of  Rebecca Roanhorse  Black Sun

Synopsis:

In the holy city of Tova, the winter solstice is usually a time for celebration and renewal, but this year it coincides with a solar eclipse, a rare celestial event proscribed by the Sun Priest as an unbalancing of the world.

Meanwhile, a ship launches from a distant city bound for Tova and set to arrive on the solstice. The captain of the ship, Xiala, is a disgraced Teek whose song can calm the waters around her as easily as it can warp a man’s mind. Her ship carries one passenger. Described as harmless, the passenger, Serapio, is a young man, blind, scarred, and cloaked in destiny. As Xiala well knows, when a man is described as harmless, he usually ends up being a villain.

Crafted with unforgettable characters, Rebecca Roanhorse has created an epic adventure exploring the decadence of power amidst the weight of history and the struggle of individuals swimming against the confines of society and their broken pasts in the most original series debut of the decade

Hardcover, 464 pages

Expected publication: October 13th 2020 by Saga Press

About The Author:

Rebecca Roanhorse is a NYTimes Bestseller and a Nebula, Hugo and Locus Award-winning speculative fiction writer and the recipient of the 2018 Astounding (formerly Campbell) Award for Best New Writer.

Her novels include TRAIL OF LIGHTNING, STORM OF LOCUSTS, STAR WARS: RESISTANCE REBORN, and RACE TO THE SUN. Her upcoming novel BLACK SUN is set to release 10/13/2020.

She lives in Northern New Mexico with her husband, daughter, and pug. 

Book Review: Hell & Back (Outbreak Task Force #5) by Julie Rowe

 

Title: Hell & Back (Outbreak Task Force #5)

Author: Julie Rowe

Stars: 5

Review:

I will admit I am a fan of Julie Rowe and her ability to mix medical, romance, mystery and suspense. Most of her books there is a pretty good balance and other times the romance will take over the story but in end will never disappoint.

Henry Lee is a characters readers have been waiting to read.  He is a bit of a mystery that readers have come to adore in the series and hope he is finally able to find peace and love in his life. Ruby is a character who readers will be able to connect with at times and other will have them scratching their heads.

The author medical background gives this story a very honest and real feeling. The story can be read as a stand alone or part of the series.  Either way readers will love this story !!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher the the copy of Julie Rowe Hell and Back.

Synopsis:

Racing to lock down the CDC's deadly virus samples from terrorists, ex-Special Forces medic Henry Lee partners with Ruby Toth on the Outbreak Task Force. But the terrorists always seem one step ahead. As they work side by side, Henry's taken with how Ruby accepts and respects him, instead of pitying him for all he lost overseas, including his leg. Ruby's hiding something, though, and Henry fears she's been leaking sensitive information.

Terrorists have kidnapped her brother, and now microbiologist Ruby Toth faces a horrible choice. If she doesn't give them a vial of Small Pox as ransom, her brother will die. She knows her prickly—yet very hot—boss, Henry, could provide the help she needs. But she joined the CDC to root out insiders plotting to unleash a bio-engineered pandemic, and she can't trust anyone. Not even Henry

ebook, 400 pages

Published September 21st 2020 by Entangled Pubihsing, LLC (Amara)

About The Author:

Julie Rowe’s first career as a medical lab technologist in Canada took her to the North West Territories and northern Alberta, where she still resides. She loves to include medical details in her romance novels, but admits she’ll never be able to write about all her medical experiences because, “No one would believe them!” A double Golden Heart finalist 2006, Julie’s writing has appeared in several magazines such as Today’s Parent, Reader’s Digest (Canada), and Canadian Living. She currently facilitates communication workshops for her local city college. Julie enjoys hearing from her readers. You can reach her at www.julieroweauthor.com or on Twitter @julieroweauthor . 

Book Review: Spellcrest Academy (Spellcrest Academy #1) by Michael Pierce

 

Title: Spellcrest Academy (Spellcrest Academy #1) 

Author: Michael Pierce 

Stars: 3 1\2

Review:

I will start off with I do not like cliffhangers but I can see the purpose of this with the series. With knowing it was aa man who wrote it the reactions the female lead characters and how she reacts is the way a man would think a women would react. At times it was a little laughable but the Maeve inner monologues where just too much about boobs.  

The story is a paranormal story that is a mix of wrong place and wrong time.  I am sure the series will get better as it continues.  The story is your typical everything fell into the wrong place at the right time mixed with humor.

Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of Michael Pierce Spellcrest Academy

Synopsis:

Maeve Rhodes is not your typical Good Samaritan. However, when she stumbles upon a fallen, elderly woman, she stops and tries to do the right thing. Little does she know that this chance encounter will forever change the direction of her life.

Marked with a new tattoo emblazoned across her chest and struggling to control a whole host of new powers, Maeve finds her life spiraling out of control. That is, until one more chance encounter offers an explanation… and a privileged opportunity to attend Spellcrest Academy.

Paired with a shy elf and a moody Nephilim, Maeve quickly takes to her new home at the premier magical institution. Not to mention the dreamy senior advisor whom, for some idiotic reason, she can’t stop thinking about. Love at first sight is sappy sh—crap for fairy tales, not real life. However, she can’t deny the instant connection.

As the school year progresses, Maeve discovers her invitation to the academy might not have been so innocent after all. Sinister forces want her unique abilities and are willing to kill for them.

Maeve doesn’t just need to survive her classes, she must survive the plots against her, a decades-old magical war, and following her capricious heart. She’s never been a stranger to diving into danger. But this time, she might be in over her head.

Start a fun and fierce magical adventure full of mystery and intrigue, laughs and sass, and unexpected turns sure to take your breath away.

If you’re a fan of Bella Forrest or Leia Stone, then this will be one hell of a ride you won’t want to miss.

Kindle Edition, 340 pages

Published May 17th 2019 by ParousiaSix Press

About The Author:

Michael Pierce loves stories that are thrilling and unexpected, fantastical and romantic—addictive tales that keep you reading long past the witching hour.

He currently lives in Southern California with his wife, kids, and two blood-thirsty chiweenies. When he's not at the computer, he enjoys spending quality time with family, practicing yoga, playing guitar behind closed doors, and listening to audiobooks.

Book Review: Watch Her Vanish (Rockwell and Decker #1) by Ellery A. Kane

 

Title: Watch Her Vanish (Rockwell and Decker #1)

Author: Ellery A. Kane 

Stars: 5

Review:

Watch her Vanish is a cant miss mystery in Ellery A. Kane new series Rockwell and Decker.

The author creates a small town that reader will be able to connect with as well the the troubles Criminal Psychologist Olivia Rockwell comes across she she is desperately trying to find her sister.

While Watch Her Vanish is a "Who Don it" Instead of using a clue like format they author uses the different characters who work alone until they are unable to more forward.

Readers might figure out quickly the connections and why the person is murdering the women. Yet its the story and not the easily figured out murder that will keep readers connected. 

Rocker and Decker series is the start of a new mystery series that readers can not miss out on.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of Elery A Kane Watch her Vanish.

Synopsis:

Fear hits her like a wave crashing against the sheer cliffs nearby. She sees the woman’s feet first, then the legs bent like broken driftwood. Then, the blouse strewn open; the marks on her beautiful neck. Her knees buckle as a hand grabs her elbow to break her fall.

Forced home to Fog Harbor, California, to look after her little sister, Criminal Psychologist Olivia Rockwell is struggling to adjust to life in a town so small she can hardly breathe. Until, at church one morning, the sound of a scream leads her to the body of a missing local teacher in the shallows nearby. All the evidence points to Olivia’s most threatening patient, Drake, who is safely locked up behind bars…

Convinced of Drake’s innocence—and desperate to believe in the system that’s keeping her own murderer father behind bars—Olivia gets to work on her own suspect list. All her life she’s run towards trouble, but this time she’s treading on the toes of brooding and handsome Detective Will Decker.

Then a second woman’s body is discovered, strangled while out on an evening jog. The strip of blue material used to choke her implicates Drake once again, forcing Olivia and Will to admit they are out of their depth and must work together to crack the case.

The deeper they dig, the deadlier the trail becomes. It’s clear more innocent women will die if they don’t get one step ahead. But then a note written on a scrap of paper found in the last victim’s car leads them to a terrifying realization: the killer has his sights on Olivia’s little sister as the next victim

Kindle Edition, 441 pages

Expected publication: October 9th 2020 by Bookouture

About the Author:

Forensic psychologist by day, novelist by night, Ellery Kane has been writing--professionally and creatively--for as long as she can remember. Just like many of her main characters, Ellery loves to ask why, which is the reason she became a psychologist in the first place. Real life really is stranger than fiction, and Ellery's writing is often inspired by her day job. Evaluating violent criminals and treating trauma victims, she has gained a unique perspective on the past and its indelible influence on the individual. And she's heard her fair share of real life thrillers. An avid short story writer as a teenager, Ellery recently began writing for enjoyment again, and she hasn't stopped since.

Ellery lives in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, a picturesque setting that provides the backdrop for many of her novels. If you don't find Ellery interviewing murderers behind prison walls or pecking away at her latest novel, she is probably at the gym landing a solid jab-cross to a punching bag; riding bicycles with her special someone; or enjoying a movie the old-fashioned way--at the theater with popcorn and Milk Duds.

Ellery's debut novel, Legacy, has received several awards, including winning the Gold Medal in the Independent Publisher Book Awards, young adult, e-book category, and the Gold Medal in the Wishing Shelf Independent Book Awards, teenage category. Ellery was previously selected as one of ten semifinalists in the MasterClass James Patterson Co-Author Competition, and she recently signed a three book deal with Bookouture for her new Rockwell and Decker romantic suspense series. The first book is scheduled for release in December 2020.