Thursday, November 30, 2017

Book Review: An Ace and a Pair (Dead Cold Mystery #1) By Blake Banner

Ace and A Pair (Dead Cold Mystery, #1)


Title: An Ace and a Pair (Dead Cold Mystery #1) 

 Author: Blake Banner

Stars: 4 out of 5

Review:
The pairing of a unique duo of New York city detectives into a cold case investigation team. Their methods are a bit old fashioned but effective. They have but one objective and that is to find the murder or murders by which ever methodology works. Whether or not "true" justice prevails is left for you the reader to decide. But always remember, contrary to conventional wisdom, justice is not always blind.

I have rated this book 4 stars and look forward to other offerings in this series.

I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.
Thank you Frank for your review.

Synopsis:
Detective John Stone of the NYPD has the best arrest record in the 43rd precinct. But he’s a dinosaur who belongs to another age. Detective Carmen Dehan has such a bad attitude that nobody at the precinct can stomach her. Captain Jennifer Cuevas wants them both out of the way and thinks they make a perfect pair. So she gives them the Cold Cases file – the cases nobody gives a damn about.

She has no idea just how hot a cold case can get.

Ten years back Nelson Hernandez and his four cousins were playing poker in a dive at Hunts Point. Somebody came in, blew them away and beheaded and castrated Nelson, leaving his head and his balls on the table. There was no shortage of suspects, the Jersey Mob, the Triads from Manhattan, or the 43rds own bent cop, Mick Harragan. But nobody was ever charged, and the night of the murder Mick Harragan went missing with Nelson’s wife, Maria.

Now Stone and Dehan plan to find him – whatever the consequences

About The Author:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17094088.Blake_Banner

Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Book Review: Spy Games (Tarnished Heroes #1) by Sidney Bristol

Spy Games
Title: Spy Games (Tarnished Heroes #1) 

Author: Sidney Bristol

Stars: 4 out of 5

Review:
I will be honest I have read a few book by Author Sidney Bristol and most of the time they are filled with graphic sex and the story comes second. I think she has found a really good balance between the sex and the story that will make readers demanding more. The story has a great build that will pull readers in as the action slows down and the romance or as I like to call it getting your know you moments the story develops and soon once again takes off at a great pace. 
Spy Games will keep readers hooked from first to last page as the travel the world wondering what will happens to the first Sara Collins.  The author gives a woman romance readers will love and suspense readers can cheer for. 
The story moves quickly with action, adventure, lies, and enough steamy scene to fog up your windows.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher Entangled Publishing for the advance copy.

Synopsis:
Haunted by the mistakes he made while fighting for his country, Rand Duncan has become the CIA’s go to man for tough jobs in an effort to atone for his sins. Late-night phone calls and covert meetings are the norm. Until she arrives and his past crashes into his present.

Sarah Collins never thought she’d see her brother’s former best friend again. But one of Sarah’s fellow undercover informants has been captured and the briefcase containing the identities and locations of twelve other operatives are in Chinese hands. If Sarah and Rand can’t retrieve the documents, people will die.

The shock wears off quick as the two must figure out how to retrieve the briefcase before it can be opened or sold. If they want to save lives, they must confront their past, while avoiding an enemy that will stop at nothing to crush them.


ebook
Published November 27th 2017 by Entangled Publishing. LLC (Amara)

About The Author:
Sidney Bristol
It can never be said that NYT & USA Today Bestselling author Sidney Bristol has had a ‘normal’ life. She is a recovering roller derby queen, former missionary, and tattoo addict. She grew up in a motor-home on the US highways (with an occasional jaunt into Canada and Mexico), traveling the rodeo circuit with her parents. Sidney has lived abroad in both Russia and Thailand, working with children and teenagers. She now lives in Texas where she splits her time between a job she loves, writing, reading and fostering cats.

Sidney is represented by Nicole Resciniti of the Seymour Agen
cy. 

Tuesday, November 28, 2017

Book Review Redemption at Hawk's Landing (Badge of Justice #1) By Rita Herron


Title: Redemption at Hawk's Landing (Badge of Justice #1)

Author: Rita Herron

Stars: 3 1/2 stars

Review:
The story is what you expect from Harlequin. Conflicted love interest, female lead find love in the unexpected place, everyone is shocked, Sheriff comes to her rescue they fall in love and the story ends. Nothing really stood out in the story and everything happened readers would expect. 
I guess I was hoping for more but instead found cliches from the names to the different characters to the very last page of the book.  
The author ability create a picture and paint it for readers is what set this book apart from other Harlequin  fast books. Would I pick it up and read it again. No.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy

Synopsis:
A missing sister, a murdered father and a dangerous reunion years in the making.

The last place Honey Granger wants to be is Tumbleweed, Texas—the judgmental town that made her childhood a living hell. But when Sheriff Harrison Hawk informs her that her alcoholic father has been murdered, she reluctantly joins his investigation. The sexy sheriff has long suspected Honey’s father in his sister’s disappearance and vows to solve both mysteries. But keeping his professional distance from the vulnerable blonde proves nearly impossible. He’ll guard her 24/7 until her life is out of danger. But how will she feel if Harrison proves her father was a murderer?


Kindle Edition256 pages
Expected publication: December 1st 2017 by Harlequin Intrigue

About The Author: 
USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author Rita Herron fell in love with books at the ripe age of eight when she read her first Trixie Belden mystery. Although she wanted to be a writer then and actually scrawled her first novel at age twelve, she didn’t think real people grew up to be writers, so she became a kindergarten teacher instead. Ten years ago, she traded her classroom storytelling and puppets for a computer and now writes so she doesn’t have to get a real job.
Having sold over fifty books to date, she enjoys spinning spine-tingling romantic suspense tales filled with murder, mayhem, and spicy romance as well as sexy romantic comedies. Rita Herron currently writes romantic suspense for Harlequin Intrigue and she’s writing dark, gritty romantic suspense thrillers for Amazon Montlake.

If you want to know more about Rita or have a question for her about her books, or writing in general, email Rita and she’ll be happy to answer

Monday, November 27, 2017

Book Review: Undercover Attraction (The O'Malleys, #5) by Katee Robert

Undercover Attraction by Katee Robert

Title: Undercover Attraction (The O'Malleys, #5) 

Author:  Katee Robert

Stars: 2 out of 5

Review:
Undercover Attraction isn't much to be honest. I feel like I have read this story already by another author only neither one was able to pull off the story well enough.
This book is full of sexual encounters that pull away from the story. If Katee Robert had taken out half the sex scenes the story would have been a short one instead of a full length novel.
The two characters never stay true to what the author presents at the beginning of the story and they falter many times throughout the book.  Their plans fall apart so many times leaving readers wondering if the book isn't more than erotica with a story that is as flat as all the characters. 
While readers do not read for realism this story makes sure to though out the real world at every turning point.

Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher Forever Grand Central Publishing   for an advance copy. 

Synopsis:
Ex-cop Charlotte Finch used to think there was a clear line between right and wrong. Then her fellow officers betrayed her, and the world is no longer so black and white. Especially when it's Aiden O'Malley, one of the most dangerous men in Boston, who offers her a chance for justice. The only catch: she'll have to pretend to be his fiancée for his plan to work.

Aiden can't afford to let anyone see the man behind the mask. To run the O'Malley empire, he has to be cool and controlled at all times. But the moment he meets Charlie, they're playing with fire. Her slightest touch is enough to send him over the edge. At first their "engagement" was a way to eliminate his enemies. Now he'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe-- even if he has to destroy his own family to do it.


Kindle Edition
Expected publication: November 28th 2017 by Forever Grand Central Publishing 

About The Author: 

Katee Robert
New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Katee Robert learned to tell her stories at her grandpa’s knee. Her 2015 title, The Marriage Contract, was a RITA finalist, and RT Book Reviews named it 'a compulsively readable book with just the right amount of suspense and tension." When not writing sexy contemporary and romantic suspense, she spends her time playing imaginary games with her children, driving her husband batty with what-if questions, and planning for the inevitable zombie apocalypse.

Thursday, November 23, 2017

Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Turkey Day

Image result for Happy Thanksgiving Stinky Face
Remember to give thanks for all you have and when I say all you have I mean all the amazing books you have read and will read though out the year.

Here is what I am thankful:

1. My faith in God
2. My Husband
3: My children
4: My heath
5: My families Health
6: My ability to read
7: Friends who get my Humor
8: My beautiful Home
9: The Fact I do not Live where there is SNOW! I HATE SNOW!
10: I am grateful for men and women who have willing fraught in wars to keep my family safe.

Fun Fact I have family that came over on the Mayflower. Most are Great Great Grandfathers I have one great grand mother Mary. That is all I have on her name

Wednesday, November 22, 2017

Book Review: Witness in the Dark (Love Under Fire #1) by Allison B. Hanson

Witness in the Dark (Love Under Fire #1)
Title: Witness in the Dark (Love Under Fire #1)

Author: Allison B. Hanson

Stars:  3 1\2 out of  5

Review:
Allison Hanson fell into the same hole many romance or mystery writer do how to combine romance with a mystery without having one over power the other half of the story. The first half of the story was suspenseful, fast pace and kept readers excited but soon as the romance started the story went from exciting to almost a dead stop. The romance took over slowly down the story to a dead crawl and while the small twist towards the end was fun. I couldn't help but wonder if the last half of the book was written by someone else.
Readers will love feisty Sam who is stronger the more control she is given. Garrett is flat, boring and uninteresting. 
The story falls on too many cliches to make it a 4 star book. The bodyguard, congressman to the ending it all falls into a typical bodyguard stories that lack any true creativity.
Thank you to Netgalley and Entangled Publishing for the Advance Copy of  Witness in the Dark (Love Under Fire #1).

Synopsis:
Deputy Marshal Garrett McKendrick does not get involved with witnesses he's tasked to protect. Especially when his boss has a very personal reason for keeping Samantha Hutchinson alive. Can you say off limits?

But as Garrett battles to keep Sam safe from the powerful and influential people out to silence her—permanently—he finds she's strong, feisty, and willing to risk everything to tell the truth. And totally irresistible. 

Losing everything you know and love might just be worth it to meet an amazing man like Garrett. But when Sam learns he has been keeping secrets from her—big ones—she’s convinced his affectionate words were all for the sake of the job. She sends him packing. But can her new protective detail be trusted? The last team betrayed her to the enemy...

Garrett isn’t about to take any chances. Not with the woman who has stolen his heart.



ebook
Expected publication: November 27th 2017 by Entangled Publishing, LLC (Amara)

About The Author:
Allison B. Hanson
Allison lives near Hershey, Pennsylvania. Her contemporary romances include paranormal, sci-fi, fantasy, and mystery suspense. She enjoys candy immensely, as well as long motorcycle rides, and running.

Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Book Review A Brave Black Regiment by Captain Luis F Emilio


A Brave Black Regiment: The History of the Fifty-Fourth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1863-1865 by [Emilio, Captain Luis F.]
Title:  A Brave Black Regiment

Author: Captain Luis F Emilio

Stars: 4 stars out of 5

Review:
A very dry book (1891) by the author which details the history of the Black Regiment in which he served during the Civil War. It is not a modern day action adventure but a history book written by someone who was there. There is no sugar coating or politically correct language in the book. Although, I would suppose that, for the time period it was politically correct. It contains the story of Stephen A Ellison who was the first black commissioned officer in the US Army. In my opinion, that alone, makes it a book to read.

I have rated this book 4 stars. I have given it this rating because you will have to be dedicated to work your way through the strictly fact based details.

I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.

Synopsis:
In January 1863 the Union War Department authorized the creation of "a special corps" composed of "persons of African descent"—the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, commanded by Col. Robert Gould Shaw.
Hundreds of free blacks enlisted. When the 54th Massachusetts spearheaded the suicidal charge against Fort Wagner on July 18, 1863, the regiment was showered with acclaim, but that defining event was not its only illustrious moment.
After the devastating repulse at Fort Wagner left all of the unit's ranking officers dead or wounded, Captain Luis Fenellosa Emilio (1844-1918) emerged as the 54th's acting commander.


About The Author:
Emilio-1-258x306.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luis_F._Emilio

Monday, November 20, 2017

Monday AHHHHHHH That is me remembering my kids will be home Thursday and Friday from School.

I adore my family in fact I love them to pieces but lets face it as a mom who only gets 3 hours 3 days a week to herself.  It just need me time.
I even begged a friend to go out but she is kid free this week so I can't blame her for not wanting a girls night out. After all if I could have three days just hubby and I wouldn't even turn my phone one.
Each one of us created self portrait. The Red, Yellow Green line was originally the youngest but his sister demand a picture. He is the green one. Everyone helped make the picture. 

Motherhood is hard. Its about putting yourself first and last all the time. It is really hard when I put myself first because I feel selfish but when I put myself last I slowly wear out to the point I am physically, emotionally and mentally sick. Find the balance feels like an impossible task. Pretty much like laundry and never ending.
I was once told a song Give said the little stream is a terrible song because what happens when the stream is empty? You can't keep giving when you have nothing for yourself.

As I reflect on the year it has been a roller-coaster of crazy.
I'm blessed that not one of my kids has broken their body parts even after all the crazy stunts they have pulled. AKA "I didn't push him off my bed I touched him and he fell" Man number 2 daughter will be an amazing lawyer.

I'm blessed to have a dog that help bring down the family anxiety but brings in my allergies than I never thought possible.

I'm blessed to have health insurance that takes care of my families physical and mental health.  Even when it means a I need to take one of the kids in for blood work. It scares me because I HATE NEEDLES. That's right its all about me even though she is getting poked and more blooded taken than I think she has. Man I am going to promise her the world.

I'm blessed to have a beautiful home that my family can kind find peace and harmony in. I'm also blessed my kids feel comfortable enough to bring their friends home. Although its would be nice if those KIDS stopped eating me out of house and home. (I need to bake Chocolate chip Cookies again. Man those kids can shovel them down)

I'm thankful and blessed to have an amazing understanding husband who is able to hold me when a movie I thought would be the greatest of all time sent me into a wave of painful blocked memories.  Yup there is a reason I had blocked those memories. A rough childhood memory but good movie.

I'm Blessed for all the good and I am blessed for all the not so good. Why? Because it shows we how much I have grown personally, physically and most importantly emotionally. I have been able to cry when needed without feeling shame. I have been able to express my love freely without worry.  I am starting to feel so much more comfortable hugging those around me. Not because they need a hug but because I want to show my love for them.

I have been blessed to express my love to my  family which I have found in my friends.  The friends I prayed to God for and he brought them into my life and I can't ever let go. (Totally in stalker type of way. Just kidding.)
Now enough with the sappy.

Have a wonderful week of Thanks and remember with the bad there is good you just need to want to find it.
Always Always Find the Good in the worst of times because it is there.

Friday, November 17, 2017

Book Review: The Sweetheart Mystery (Brash & Brazen #4) by Cheryl Ann Smith

The Sweetheart Mystery by Cheryl Ann Smith
Title: The Sweetheart Mystery (Brash & Brazen #4

Author: Cheryl Ann Smith

Stars: 4 stars out of 5

Review:
I jumped into the middle of the series and while most readers can start at book 4 after finishing this book I can't wait to start reading the first in the series.
The Sweetheart Mystery is laugh out loud fun that will have readers smiling. The author descriptions of the different characters is cute and fun which will bring a smile to readers.
The story is a cute blend of mystery and romance which will have readers falling in love with Cheryl Ann Smith Characters wanting to read more. 
The Sweetheart Mystery is a laugh-out loud funny romantic mystery that will bring a smile to readers.

Thank you to Netgalley and Lyrical Shine Publishing for the advance copy

Synopsis: 
Sure, Harper made a few unsavory threats against her team’s manager—she’d had a few drinks and she despised the skimpy uniform he expected her to wear. That didn’t mean she wanted him dead.  But when the sleazy dude is found murdered in his tighty whiteys, Harper is the number one suspect—and former FBI agent Noah Slade is the one man who can help. Too bad she once told Noah she never wanted to see him again . . .

Noah may have done a number on Harper’s heart all those years ago, but he’s determined to do right by her now. Yet the fiery beauty isn’t the only demon from his past, which makes hunting down a murderer by her side . . . complicated—never mind the powerful attraction still pulsing between them.  Good thing he’s willing to do just about anything to keep from losing Harper again. And an old love just might bring her a new career—assuming she can stay out of jail . .



Kindle Edition1st edition228 pages
Published November 14th 2017 by Lyrical Shine

About The Author:
Cheryl Ann Smith
A fan of historical romance fiction, author Cheryl Ann Smith combines a love of history and all things English to create stories that link both passions.

She lives in Michigan with her family, two cats and a very hairy dog. She enjoys outdoor adventures and traveling, when she has the time, and hopes to make her first visit to England in the very near future.

Thursday, November 16, 2017

Book Review:Up for Heir (Westerly Billionaire #2) by Ruth Cardello

Up for Heir (Westerly Billionaire #2)
Title: Up for Heir (Westerly Billionaire #2)

Author: Ruth Cardello 

Stars: 3 1\2 out of 5

Review:
Second Chance romance series with some what likable characters and a grandmother trying to fix what is broken.
The story 234 pages but it seems to feel a lot longer as the author gives readers way to much of Haliey's inner thoughts. Many times readers will reread the same thought over and over again which as Ruth Cardello gives readers a glimps into the past.  Most of the past isn't needed since she covers it in current time.
Spencer is a jerk who grows a little too quickly in live with this first love. The Grandmother is pretty entertaining as she meddles in her Grandchildren lives.
Readers will be able to jump into book 2 without needing to read book 1 and i have a feeling that is how the entire series will be as each of the different children will fall in love or fall back in low.
Thank you to Netgalley and Publisher  Montlake Romance for the advance copy 

Synopsis:
Spencer Westerly is his own man. He didn’t need his father’s money to build his wildly successful tech company—and he doesn’t want to deal with the fallout from old family secrets. But as much as Spencer wants to avoid Westerly drama, his grandmother—the family matriarch—is determined to pull him back into the fold. And she’s discovered the perfect lure: his college sweetheart, Hailey.

Although she broke his heart, Hailey is still the only woman he’s ever loved. Now that she’s back and looking as desirable as ever, Spencer is determined to get a second chance.

A lot has changed for Hailey Tiverton. The only thing that hasn’t? The inexplicable pull she feels toward Spencer. When they were younger, his work was his priority. Now, he’d better be willing to prove that, this time, love comes first


Kindle Edition234 pages
Published November 14th 2017 by Montlake Romance


About The Author:

Ruth Cardello hit the NYTs and USA Today for the first time back in 2012. Millions of sales are evidence that her books are akin to potato chips, addictive from the first one. She has created a multi-series billionaire world with a combination of escapism and realism that has gained her a faithful following of readers.
Ruth Cardello was born the youngest of 11 children in a small city in northern Rhode Island. She spent her young adult years moving as far away as she could from her large extended family. She lived in Boston, Paris, Orlando, New York--then came full circle and moved back to New England. She now happily lives one town over from the one she was born in. For her, family trumped the warmer weather and international scene. 

She was an educator for 20 years, the last 11 as a kindergarten teacher. When her school district began cutting jobs, Ruth turned a serious eye toward her second love- writing and has never been happier. When she's not writing, you can find her chasing her children around her small farm or connecting with her readers online.

Email Notice of New Releases: www.RuthCardello.com/Signup

You can find her on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/RuthCardello

Follow her at Twitter @RuthieCardello

Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Book Review Remodelista: A Manual for the Considered Home by Julie Carlson

Remodelista: A Manual for the Considered Home
Title: Remodelista: A Manual for the Considered Home

Author: Julie Carlson

Stars: 3 stars out of 5

Review:
I had high hopes for this book but it fell short for those who live on a very tight budge and want to make the dollar go a very long way and still make there home look stunning.
The photos are beautiful and undeniable amazing to look though even in a PDF file I was in awe of the amazing photos.  At one point I found myself laughing when it mention a 300 sqf bedroom as small. My first apartment was 300 spf. I found quickly that this wasn't a book for my budget at all. Instead it was for the dream home we all know we want but will never have.
I loved the paint colors but nothing was taken into accountable a mother with 4 young children or grandparents who want to have there grand children enjoy there home.

While it is beautiful this book and ideas a not idealist for those on budgets with families.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Artisan for the advance copy.

Synopsis:
Remodelista.com is the go-to, undisputed authority for home design enthusiasts, remodelers, architects, and designers with disposable income. The antithesis to sites that cater to all tastes, Remodelista has a singular and clearly defined aesthetic: classic pieces trump designs that are trendy and transient, and well-edited spaces take precedence over cluttered environments. High and low mix seamlessly here, and getting the look need not be expensive (think Design Within Reach meets Ikea). Remodelista decodes the secrets to achieving this aesthetic, with in-depth tours and lessons from 12 enviable homes; a recipe-like breakdown of the hardest-working kitchens and baths; dozens of do-it-yourself projects; The Remodelista 100, a guide to the best everyday household objects; and an in-depth look at the ins and outs of the remodeling process. In a world of design confusion, Remodelista takes the guesswork out of the process.


About The Author:
Julie Carlson
Julie Carlson is the author of Remodelista: A Manual for the Considered Home and cofounder of inspirational home site Remodelista.com. Previously, she worked at the Institute for Architecture and Urban Studies in New York before joining the editorial staff of The New Yorker. A graduate of Brown University, Julie lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

Book Review:Twisted Truths (Blood Brothers #3) by Rebecca Zanetti

Twisted Truths (Blood Brothers, #3)
Title: Twisted Truths (Blood Brothers #3)

Author: Rebecca Zanetti

Stars: 4 1\2 out of 5

Review:
I was beyond excited to receive an advance copy of Twisted Truth by Rebecca Zanetti. I had rest the first two in the blood brother series and each book had readers needing more of the three blood brothers.
The story is a second chance romance of Denver who left the woman he cared for back in Alaska because he didn't want to bring her into his violent work.
There is just too much in this book and while it is the last in the series the author threw everything at readers including bring characters in from another series.
The story follows the same as the others a woman in need. The Man can't back down but the past is breathing down on him and he feels the need to protect everyone. That is right Denver is the Lone Wolf. Which become tiresome half way though the book. There are two stories going on at once just like the other two books which the author was able to intertwine but keep a good pace. Twisted Truth story lines were took much to have in one story.  I think Rebecca Zanetti could have found another way to bring the long lost lovers together without the extra story line that seem make seem to kill more people in one day than any other book I have read by her.  I'm sorry is there are 1-800 Henchmen? Because after a while you almost want to laugh at how many gang members or henchmen are killed.
The evil characters go from evil to cartoonist in this story. Even with the final show down and the wrap of of everyone lives the story takes to long.

I wanted to love this book but instead found myself tried from all the over the top non stop action that took away from the enjoyment of the other two books in the Blood brother series.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher Forever for the advance copy, 

How many sex can two people have when they are running for their lives? A lot!!
If you have not read the first in this series do not pick up this copy trust me you will be lost. 

Synopsis:
Noni is desperate. Her infant niece has been kidnapped, and the only person who can save her is a private detective with too many secrets to count--and more enemies than he can name. A man who walked away from Noni without any warning a year ago, a man who broke her heart. But with Talia's life on the line, Noni needs his help now more than ever--and this time, she won't take no for an answer . . .

The moment Denver Jones sees Noni, the memories come rushing back. The fire in her eyes. The determination in her voice. The danger of having her in his life. Denver had to push her away once, but now with vicious criminals threatening Noni and her niece, he'll do whatever it takes to protect them. But enemies from his past are circling, and they'll use anything--and anyone--to get to Denver.

With twists and turns that will blow you away, TWISTED TRUTHS is sexy, action-packed suspense at its very best from New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti.


Kindle Edition432 pages
Expected publication: November 14th 2017 by Forever


About The Author:
Rebecca Zanetti
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

Monday, November 13, 2017

Book Review Highland Ruse (Mercenary Maidens Book 2) by Madeline Martin

Highland Ruse (The Mercenary Maidens, #2)
Title: Highland Ruse (Mercenary Maidens Book 2)

Author:  Madeline Martin

Stars: 4 out of 5 stars


Review:
An interesting tale set in the early 1600s. Although it starts at the Royal Court in London the action is really set in Scotland. The story is credible and easy to follow. The heroine l falls for the hero whom she is suppose to capture. After a particularly hard battle to seat the correct Laird of the opposing clan both heroine and her are able to have a fairy tale ending.

Although this story is not set in a timeline that I would normally read I found it both interesting and enjoyable. I have rated this book 4 stars.

I obtained an ARC from Netgalley for my unbiased review.
Thank you Frank for your Reviews.

Synopsis:
Kaid MacLeod couldn’t protect his clan from an unimaginable slaughter that killed his father and many of his people. He knows retaliation will only bring more death to his people, but if he does nothing, the massacres will continue. His clan is growing angry and all seems lost…until Kaid discovers his nemesis’s betrothed will be traveling through Scotland. Abducting her will give him the leverage he desperately needs to end the slaughter and bring peace to his clan.

Delilah Canterbury is not the highborn daughter of a noble, nor is she by any means wealthy, she’s merely pretending to be a Scottish laird’s betrothed as a means of bringing justice to the man rumored to seek vengeance. Beautifully dressed and ready to succeed on her first mission alone, Delilah is more than she seems…she’s a trap.

Matters get complicated as the truth behind their intentions come to light, especially when a sizzling attraction blossoms between them. With so many lives on the line, and loyalties pledged, will Kaid be able to save his people? And can their love survive the lies and ultimate betrayal?



Paperback300 pages
Expected publication: November 14th 2017 by Diversion Books


About The Author: 
Madeline  Martin
Madeline Martin is a USA TODAY Bestselling author of Scottish set historical romance. She lives in Jacksonville, Florida with her two daughters (AKA OldestMinion and YoungestMinion) and Mr. Awesome. All shenanigans are detailed regularly on Twitter.
Her hobbies include rock climbing, running, doing crazy races (like Mud Runs and Color Runs) and just about anything exciting she can do without getting nauseous. She's also a history fan (really more of a full on history dork) and loves to blog about random curiosities from her research.
After living in Europe for over a decade, Madeline enjoys traveling overseas whenever she can. Her favorite place to visit thus far: Scotland.
Writing has been a passion of hers since she was a child and now she finally gets to see her lifelong dream come true

Friday, November 10, 2017

Book Review: Risky Redemption (Rogue Security #1) by Marissa Garner

Risky Redemption (Rogue Security #1)
Title: Risky Redemption (Rogue Security #1)

Author: Marissa Garner

Stars: 4 Stars


Review:
3 1\2 stars out of 5
Marissa Garner Covers are always spot on with the contracting colors and will pop off the book shelf. 
Marissa Garner has unique way of writing but this time I had a difficult time getting into the book as she bounced between the present and past. Causing the story to feel incomplete at times and almost a puzzles that readers had to put together without all the parts.
Man times the lead man aka the man child would throw around how little sex he had had since meeting was funny at first but soon became a little old as the story moved on.  He didn't come off as the cold contract killer more of a man child.  It was funny at first but soon grew old as well as the inner monologues that was suppose to drive the story forward instead slowed it down.
I found the characters likable and the story had to man unanswered questions and gaps that will confuse readers.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Forever Yours for the Advance Copy

Synopsis:
Four years ago, Angela Reardon was brutally attacked, and she still bears the physical scars and traumatic memories. While she's worked hard to overcome her fears and build a successful business, she's still haunted by her inability to identify her assailant. Now Angela only wants to be left alone-until a shadowy stranger reignites her desire to be loved. But their time together may be brief...because someone wants her dead.

CIA assassin Jake Stone's targets deserved to die. Until now. Until he falls in love with the innocent woman he's been hired to kill. Jake can't fight his attraction to Angela, and he knows that someone else will be sent to finish the job. So can he save Angela and redeem himself by uncovering who wants her killed? When the trail leads him into the carnal underbelly of L.A., the truth is more shocking than even he could ever imagine



About The Author:
I’m Marissa Garner. I’m a wife, writer, chocoholic, and animal lover, not necessarily in that order. As a little girl, I cut pictures of people out of my mother’s magazines and turned them into characters in my simple stories. Now I write sexy paranormal romantic suspense, steamy contemporary romance, and edgy romantic thrillers. I live in sunny Southern California with my husband, but enjoy traveling from Athens to Anchorage to Acapulco and to many locations in between.

I write romance to titillate your mind as well as your libido. My stories appeal to romance readers who:

•Choose French Silk over vanilla
•Don’t always color inside the lines and don’t like being told no
•Think some rules are made to be broken
•Have the courage to push the envelope when they’re passionate about something
•Believe fiction should be as unpredictable as real life

If this sounds like your kind of romance, have fun exploring my website and stories.

Thursday, November 9, 2017

Happy Birthday to the number 1 man in my life

Happy Birthday to my Partner in Crime. Ok ok I would be the one committing the crime he would be the driver or the dashing handsome man woman swoon over. Oh wait they swoon Already.

You are my hero, my best friend, my superman who seems to take on tall towers and never stops. You do what you love and never let any around of rejection stand in your way.

You support all my crazy ideas (IE Spartan Race) and cheer me on when I want to give up on my dreams.

You cry with me, you make me laugh and you are an amazing father.

Who knew I would marry my best friend, my partner at the movies, a man of many skills that seem to amaze me every day and the man who taught me I can fix anything with YouTube.

Happy Birthday Doug Thank you for taking a chance on this crazy lady.

14 years ago we agreed to be partners for Eternity 

Yup always keeping me on my toes. Never know what I will find on my camera's 

New Years Adventures are always the best. 

Everyone needs a snuggle 

Everyone needs to talk to someone big or small

You can see I made 4 copies of the same amazing guy.


Family time isn't always what we expect but it can be fun and never quite

One Heck of An Adventure I will never do again but more than grateful you agreed. You showed me we can do anything when we are together.

Thank you for being apart of my life and our Grand Adventure.



Age is just a number not what defines you.

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Book Review: Trapped (Finding Justice #3) by Rhonda Pollero

Trapped (Finding Justice #3)

Title: Trapped (Finding Justice #3)

Author: Rhonda Pollero

Stars: 3 Stars out of 5

Review:
As a reader the greatest gift an author can give is a mystery they can't figure out.Unfortunately Rhonda Pollero doesn't do this and right away readers will be able to not only figure out the killer and the motive as well before they are halfway though the story.
Chasyn Summers isn't a very bright characters which is surprising since she is a paralegal. Many many times common sense escaped her,  slowly destroy the story and nothing will rescue it.
I wil admit I jumped into this series without reading the 2 other books but even with that I was able to figure out everything fast and found it lacking any excitement it promised. 
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Forever Yours for an advance Copy

Synopsis 
Chasyn Summers has a target on her back. As the key witness in a murder case, she's risking her life to testify in court--and she needs protection. But when she's assigned a personal bodyguard who's disarmingly tough--and distractingly gorgeous--it's not just her life that's in danger. It's her heart . . .

Declan Kavanaugh works strictly by the rules. Never get too close to a client. And never, ever, fall in love. But he's never protected anyone as beautiful, or as intriguing, as Chasyn. Surrendering to passion is a risk they can't afford to take, especially when danger meets desire and Declan realizes Chasyn Summers may be the ultimate trap


Kindle Edition
Expected publication: November 7th 2017 by Forever Yours

About The Author:
Rhonda Pollero
I sold my first book in 1993 - huge thrill since it took me 10 years to get published. 40-something books later, I've decided to go back and visit my roots. I'll be doing some Romantic Suspense for Grand Central as well as a Finley spin-off featuring Peyton Tanner.

Tuesday, November 7, 2017

Book Review: Keep Me Close (Lazarus Rising #2) By Cynthia Eden

Keep Me Close by Cynthia Eden
Title: Keep Me Close (Lazarus Rising #2)

Author: Cynthia Eden 

Stars: 4 out of 5

Review:
I have read almost everything Cynthia Eden writes because it is action pack, the story packs a lot into a few pages, the romance is hot fast and the characters are interesting.
Just like all of her other series this one can be picked up on book 2 and readers will not feel lost but feel they are writing a new story with just enough background to understand the secondary characters who might have stared in the first book or will in the series.
Keep Me Close has the same feel as many of Cynthia Edens other stories Alpha male who takes control of the female with a very caveman feel.  It works in this series because the men been turned into killing machines so they are not to have normal responses but more basic response to people, Kill, Fight, Win and claim woman.
The story moves fast and readers of Cynthia Eden will love this series and its perfect to curl up to a fire place and enjoy a night alone.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher Hocus Pocus Publishing, Inc. for the Copy.

Synopsis: 
Flynn Haddox is a dead man. Literally. 

As a highly trained Navy SEAL, Flynn once worked covert missions for the U.S. government, but then his life was stolen away. Killed and placed in the secretive “Lazarus” program, Flynn was brought back from the dead and turned into a super-soldier. Now he has increased strength, enhanced senses, and a few psychic bonuses that he fights hard to keep hidden from the rest of the world. He also has no memory of his past…and a new, twisting darkness seems to be growing inside of Flynn. 

Cecelia Gregory escaped death once. Can she do it again? 

Dr. Cecelia Gregory was supposed to help the Lazarus test subjects. They didn’t have control of their emotions after the experiment, and her job as a psychiatrist was to break through the walls that the men had created. Too late, Cecelia realized that the Lazarus subjects were far more dangerous than she could ever imagine. The men came back from the dead, but some of them came back…wrong. Now one of the subjects has a dark obsession with Cecelia. The man known as Subject Five is hunting her. And he wants her dead. 

One man wants to kill her, but another just…wants her. 

Flynn feels a connection to Cecelia that he can’t deny. Not some sweet, innocent attraction—a consuming lust that makes him crave her all the time. Flynn knows that his feelings aren’t normal, but protecting her is his mission now. The man hunting Cecelia is just like Flynn—all the same enhancements, all the same strengths. And no weaknesses. One big difference, though—Flynn doesn’t plan to lose Cecelia. And he’ll fight his own darkness to prove his worth to her. 


Kindle Edition
Published October 24th 2017 by Hocus Pocus Publishing, Inc.

About The Author:
Cynthia Eden
Award-winning author Cynthia Eden writes dark tales of paranormal romance and romantic suspense. She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Cynthia is also a three-time finalist for the prestigious RITA® award. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over eighty novels and novellas.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.

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