Wounded written by Abby Brooks (304 pgs) – finished reading 4/11/17 – 4.5 stars - Contemporary Romance (Rockstar/Medical)

This book had everything that I look forward to in a romance. Witty banter. Impending tragedy. The solace of loyal friends. And, an unexpected love story. That being said, you will smile with Bailey and Liam’s romance as it takes both of them by surprise. Liam is the spoiled rotten pop singer and underwear model who gets injured during a bus accident. The injury has so much to do with his image because he ends up with a pretty ugly scar that runs the length of his beautiful face. And, Bailey is the nurse who treats him, and she is not impressed whatsoever. She tells him exactly what she thinks of him, and that leads to him crashing at her house for an unknown amount of time. He’s not going back to LA anytime soon, and they both wonder how they are going to make living together work. What happens when this totally opposite couple find themselves reaching out to each other? Do they even have half a chance to make their relationship work??

Well, I just loved both main characters! Bailey is a feisty tell-it-like-it-is person. She’s been on her own since the age of eighteen, and she is no push-over. Liam, like I said is spoiled, but I think Bailey just opened his eyes to what was really missing in his life and who he actually is. She sees the real him, and I thought that he really appreciated that. And, when tragedy erupts within Bailey’s life, Liam is there to help her pick up the pieces. I really enjoyed their love story! It was entertaining and tender. It really made their relationship beautiful and moving. Anything with music gives cause for the romance to be memorable. And, music was intimately present within this love story. I highly recommend this book to read...

Luke (A Cocky Cage Fighter, #8) written by Lane Hart (256 pgs) – finished reading 4/13/17 – 3.5 stars - Contemporary Romance (New Adult)

I don’t know, I like this one; I didn’t like this one. In the beginning you get this passionate and caring male, Luke. He’s kind and so in love with the heroine, Meg. Unfortunately, she has a secret that could be devastating to Luke, which it is when he finds out the truth. But, he goes from this awesome male to somebody so disrespected and hurtful. I don’t think that Megan really deserved his harsh treatment. She, in the end, was really just looking out for him. Maybe she went about it all wrong, but she honestly just had his well-being at heart. When Luke finally comes down from his high-horse, he does realize how condescending and abusive he has been. He really is a good guy. He just had to get over Meg’s deception. Once he did, their relationship could progress into something so much more real and intimate. This was an up and down read for me. And, it all had to do with Luke’s character. I just couldn’t like him during the whole book. But, in the end he does redeem himself. This author’s writing was pretty intense with the scenes between Luke and Meg and also between Luke and his dad. There’s nothing worse than a parent losing their child so unexpectedly. So his parents grieved their oldest son wholeheartedly. It was very sad, especially for Luke’s mom. Eventually Luke’s story gave them hope and peace to accept the inevitable. It was more uplifting than one can conceive. This was my first Lane Hart read, and I’m sure that it won’t be my last...

The Opposite of You (Opposites Attract, #1) written by Rachel Higginson (302 pgs) – 3/31/17 – 4 stars - Contemporary Romance

What can I say about Rachel Higginson’s new book?? It was one enjoyable read! Vera has sworn off men for good. She’s had such a previous bad experience, that she decides that she is going to just focus on her career. She’s a chef. And, her newest venture, owning her own food truck, is her priority right now. It doesn’t go over very well, though, with the restaurant owner across the street, Killian. He’s pretty much annoyed with the idea that a food truck with take-out food is across the street from his stellar restaurant. He was pretty funny, however, sending his employees to sample her food. He must be a little afraid that she will take away some of his clientele. And, she gives him a run for his money by making deals with him to sample her food, I had to laugh-out-loud a few times. Vera was just one comical chick! I loved her! And, Killian, tried to come off as this brash and bossy male, when underneath, he really was a sweetheart. I just loved their banter back and forth! And, when it finally comes to the romance, Killian wanted so desperately to take care of Vera and show her that all men were not despicable and abusive. He was definitely a more swoon-worthy character towards the end. Will these two, though, take a chance on each other and trust in their love?

Loved the whole food truck idea! It was new and refreshing! I love books about food, and this one was right up my alley! And, a guy that rides a motorcycle is just so badass! Just makes him more thrilling and exciting as a male! And, with Vera on the back, the chemistry between the two was evident. Vera, given her past heartache, had such a wonderful support system from her dad, her brother, and best friend Molly. And, Killian also, even though his past was not without destruction, had loyalty and protectiveness from foster mom, Jo, and foster brother, Ezra. Even though this couple’s pasts might not have been pretty, they were now on a path for good things to come their way. My only complaint is that the author focused so much on Vera’s past; talking about it over and over. It gets a little tedious to keep hearing. But, I did understand the need for some of it. Ms. Higginson seemed very adamant about not letting a man treat you beneath what a woman deserved, from which I totally agree. No woman is not worthy of perfect treatment both emotionally and physically. And, if it’s not given wholeheartedly, walk away.

Definitely won’t hesitate to pick up another of Ms. Higginson’s books. I was totally entertained and look forward to her next release...

We Said Forever written by Marie James (481 pgs) – finished reading 3/20/17 – 5 stars - Contemporary Romance (Sports/New Adult)

***POSSIBLE SPOILERS PRESENT WITHIN REVIEW***

I don’t know what it is lately, but I’ve been so swept into the football romance scene. And, this one does not disappoint whatsoever. It’s painful to read, and the relationship between the two main characters is tested time and time again. Blaze comes from a family of drug addicts; both mom and dad. And, because of his past, he pledges never to make that mistake. Fallyn is all about school. We don’t get much back history of her childhood, but she seems to have a mostly decent relationship with her parents. When Blaze and Fallyn meet, she has no idea who he is. Star quarterback of the football team means nothing to her. They meet at a party, and she’s totally blown away with just one kiss and a dance. And, Blaze can’t get her off of his mind. She’s beautiful, and of course, she wants no part of him. So...the chase is on!! He promises to kiss her every time they see each other, and he’s a man of his word. Blaze is a cocky arrogant male that is so sure of himself. While Fallyn comes off as mostly interested in school and wants no romantic relationship to jeopardize that. As Blaze constantly seeks out Fallyn, both he and she know that he’s wearing her down. Will these two ever get together? And, if they do, do they stand a chance of staying together given the fact that Blaze’s past is one of heartache and destruction??

Oh, man, this was another sad one. Blaze makes some terrible decisions and they end up having devastating consequences. True that some things were just not his fault, but it leads to him paying the price big-time. In the end, the outcome was hard on this couple emotionally. I was so mad at Blaze for disappointing Fallyn so many times. She was truly the only one who ever believed in and trusted him. How could he let her down? She was such an awesome character! She was funny and confident. Said exactly what she was thinking. There was no beating around the bush with her. She was just totally honest. A very loyal and trustworthy person. And, she was Blaze’s biggest fan until he just kept hurting her over and over. Finally, when the climax occurs. Blaze makes up his mind to change and win back his soul mate. And, when he finally approaches Fallyn some years later, she is blown away by the change in him.

This was an eye-opening read about the destruction and disappointment that substance abuse plays in everyone’s lives. It was hard-core honest. It effects everyone, not just the abuser. Friends, family members, and loved ones pay the price too. The author showed just how believable this story was with her credible portrayal of the addict. It was hard to read at times. It was sad. And, I really felt for the heroine because she was truly a responsible and good-hearted person. Blaze, when he finally does get his act together and turns his life around, was a fun-loving and beautiful person just as he was when the book began.

Don’t miss this compassionate story of love and promise! I absolutely loved it! It’s one that you will be thinking about long after you’ve read the last page. And, I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up another Marie James novel...

Miracle on Fifth Avenue (From Manhattan with Love, #3) written by Sarah Morgan (384 pgs) – finished reading 3/22/17 – 3.5 stars - Contemporary Romance

My first read written by Sarah Morgan, and it was just what I was looking for. Cute and funny with a hint of drama. It takes place in New York City right around the Christmas season. Eva Jordan believes in romance. She’s searching for the love of her life. While crime fiction writer Lucas Blade wants nothing to do with love or marriage. He’s experienced both once in the past, and it didn’t end very well. When Eva and Lucas first meet, it’s not on the best of terms. Eva is working for Lucas’s grandmother as she tries to make sure that his home is decorated for the holidays. Lucas was not supposed to be there, and he wants no part of this good deed from his grandmother. He just wants to be left alone. But, Eva is getting paid to do a job. And, the job will be done no matter what the high and mighty Mr. Blade has to say!

Eva, you’ve got to love her! She’s endearing and funny! She’s so thoughtful when it comes to others. Her friends mean everything to her because basically, she’s alone. And, when she gets to know Lucas, she can see the sorrow in his eyes. Lucas is one brooding male! He’s a man of very little words in the beginning. But, with Eva’s constant banter, he finds himself opening up more. God, the man is sexy as all hell with his dark hair, dark eyes, and muscular build, and Eva can’t help but to be attracted to him as he eventually tells her about his complicated past. Will these two have a future together? Or will Lucas let Eva go when there’s no getting around his hurt emotions that his past has caused?

Such a tender-hearted romance! I was so caught up in the passion between Eva and Lucas even though he totally tried to deny it. Hoping this couple would get their “happily ever after” was exactly what I wanted for them. They both deserved it! With the mystical backdrop of the holiday season swirling with the beauty of snowfall in the Big Apple, I just fell in love with this adorable romance!

The Truth About Lennon written by K.L. Grayson (281 pgs) – finished reading 3/29/17 – 4 stars - Contemporary Romance

This was a more than wonderful find written by author, K.L. Grayson! I found myself loving the story as I plowed through the pages excitedly! Lennon Barrick-St. James is done with New York. She’s pretty much banished by her dad to stay out of the limelight for awhile. So, she heads to Heaven, Texas. Obviously so much different than where she’s from! It’s small where everyone knows each other. When first arriving in town, she bumps into Noah Cunningham, like literally knocking him off his motorcycle. And, he’s not too happy about it either. But, Lennon is sorry and tries to help him even though he wants nothing from her. Lennon is bound and determined, though, to reach out to Noah as he needs help getting around since he sprained his ankle in the accident. Noah does not need any woman in his life! He’s doing just fine! But, as Noah gets to know Lennon, he realizes that this beautiful woman may be just what he does need.

Oh, Lennon and Noah are the perfect couple! They have great chemistry, but they come from different backgrounds. Lennon longs for someone to feel something for her other than just being in love with her money and the thought of who her father is. She wants someone to want her for what’s on the inside for once. And, Noah, just wants someone to accept him and the people in his life after all the heartache in his past. Lennon seems to be just that person until who she really is comes to light. Oh, I felt so bad for Lennon while shedding a few tears! She’s such a sweetheart and she’s meant for Noah to love and trust her. He just doesn’t realize that until it’s too late. Oh, I could just kick him! But, he wants what’s best for his family. And, you really can’t fault him for that! Will these two find their way back to each other?

Noah is such a swoon-worthy character! Kind and caring with amazing tattoos and a body to die for! And, he rides a motorcycle...yummm! He’s the perfect male to help Lennon move on with her life. And, Lennon, got to love that name! She’s independent and beautiful. She wants more out of life than just being front and center with her family’s social status. And, she’s hoping to find that with Noah. I loved their story and all the characters involved with their life. There was such a close-knit family of friends. Lennon has a supportive friendship in Charlotte while Noah has close ties with Mikey and Ricky along with his mom and dad. This was such a feel-good romance, and one could only hope that Lennon and Noah get their HEA. I so wanted to see a scene, though, when Noah gets his motorcycle back and they both ride into the sunset together. That would have been the perfect ending...sigh

And, how about that guy on the book cover!?? WOW!!

Where Lightning Strikes (Bleeding Stars, #3) written by A.L. Jackson (426 pgs) – finished reading 9/5/16 – 5 stars - Contemporary Romance (Rockstar)

And, here I thought the first two books of this amazing series were to die for – this one just blows those two out of the water! OMG! I couldn’t put this one down! And, this is a long book! Over 400 pages. I loved it! The two main characters, Tamar and Lyrik. God I love that name for a rockstar! He just knew all the right things to change Tamar’s opinion of him. He was a real talker. Dirty and passionate. And, even though she was done with men, she couldn’t help but be swept away with his attraction. His powerful body. Those creative tattoos. Here’s two broken people. Both vowing never to love again. I was so impressed with their story. I highlighted, highlighted, highlighted. Passages. Quotes. Descriptions. And, the other guys? Rockers? Still around. Funny as hell! Ash! I just can’t wait to read his story. And, Zee, the quiet and rational one. While Sebastian and Shea, along with daughter Kallie, still find time to be included in their friends’ lives. The writing will just pull you into Tamar and Lyrik’s romantically steamy love story. It was awesome! Now onto Austin’s book next...

Watch Me written by Ada Frost (237 pgs) – finished reading 8/30/16 – 4 stars - Contemporary Romance (Erotica)

Get ready for some hotness! This book was off-the-rails delectable! Just when I didn’t think it could get anymore sizzling, the author throws in more heat. With a cast of characters that were amazing with humor, kindness, and dominance the author creates a story that was so entertaining! I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough! Even with all the sexiness, there was definitely more of a story here that did not disappoint. This is one to laugh, cry, and melt over! Can’t wait to see what this author releases next!

And that cover??? Super HOT!!!

Levi’s Blue written by M. Leighton (413 pgs) – finished reading 9/2/16 – 5 stars - Contemporary Romance

Totally totally loved this one!! Wow! Great love story with amazing characters! I was so sad when it was over. And, Levi, man the guy was so swoon-worthy! He knew just what to say and how to say it! What happened to him years ago was sad and heartbreaking. A victim of circumstance! And, I loved Evie! Her story was awe-inspiring! She was just so strong with a fabulous sense of humor to boot! Tears of joy and tears of sadness is what I felt while reading Levi’s Blue. The title was just so fitting. Ms. Leighton really hit this one out of the ballpark! If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would! That’s how much I enjoyed it!

“As Levi sets our son down and heads for the shower, I look back at the shirt spread out on the bed. It’s spattered and streaked with all the colors of my life, of our past and our future. I reach out to touch one spot, it’s right over where my navel hits when I’m wearing the shirt. It’s a thumbprint in dark red. Levi’s thumbprint. He put it there when we found out I was pregnant. I rub my finger over his print, thinking about the colors of my world, how much it looks like this shirt. My life is Evan happy. My future is Michaelson bright. And my skies are Levi’s blue. Nothing but Levi’s blue.” ~ Evie (Epilogue)

One of my favorite book covers EVER!!

Hotshot written by Ahren Sanders (350 pgs) – finished reading 9/1/16 – 3.5 stars - Contemporary Romance

3.5 star rating

I’m not too sure of how to rate this one. The story had so much back and forth. Truths were hidden. All trying to protect individuals. The heroine was “A Number One”. It was the hero, though, that had me constantly scratching my head. I’m sure that I’m in the minority here, but it seemed to me that he wanted pity and understanding for something that he did and had to take responsibility for. At times he was elusive and closed-off, even when he was the one at fault. And, the person that suffered the most was his amazing girlfriend. She was the one that moved the story along. She was spunky and funny. She just made everyone smile. The prologue in the beginning was cute and entertaining. A little sad, though. And, the book from what I first was thinking, went into a whole other direction. While I was expecting sadness, I got a whole other take on what was going to occur. I was really not prepared for the main story line. It was tedious. Like I said, a lot of back and forth occurred with feelings and unsure choices being made. The villainous of the story was spot-on, however. Nasty. Vicious. Not a care in the world for anyone but herself. And, in the long run, she gets her just desserts. No sympathy from me. This is the first time in a while that I am rating a book probably lower than it should be mainly because of the hero. I loved his family, however! His two brothers and parents. So supportive and loyal. It was just him that I had an issue with. The ending was fitting. And, everyone is more than happy!

The Play written by Karina Halle (562 pgs) – finished reading 1/5/17 – 5 stars - Contemporary Romance

Oh my goodness! This one is a tough one to read! The good. The bad. The ugly. The intensity. The emotions were all over the place. This was a long book, but it moved right along. The rescuing of abused dogs, the support of family, and the closeness of friendships were awe inspiring. But, the addiction was heartbreaking and painful to read about as the author writes honestly about the destruction it can cause. The depths of despair that sucks you under. The toll it takes on everyone; not just the addict. Man, I cried for all involved. Like I said, a very emotional read. But, in the end I loved Kayla! I loved Lachlan! I loved them together! And, after all the heartache, I was hoping that they would find their way back to each other. This was a powerful story of hope and hopelessness that had me glued to the pages. I haven’t read that many books from this author, but the ones I have read just slay me, and I so desperately want to pick up another book of Ms. Halle’s right away. The story stays with you on so many levels. The romance, which was steamy as hell. The characters, who I just adored. And, the story itself had me totally invested from page one to the bitter end. One unforgettable love story with a courageous message to basically take a chance and don’t give up on the ones you are empowered to love...

Such a beautifully creative book cover!!!

This Love written by Hilaria Alexander (396 pgs) – finished reading 9/23/16 – 4 stars - Contemporary Romance

Another awesome book by Hilaria Alexander! Her stories are rich in emotion with amazing characters! The story just sucks you in from page one. And, the setting that takes place in Amsterdam is mesmerizing. Ella is trying to find meaning in her life. With two classical musicians as her parents, they insist that it’s her duty to follow in their footsteps. But, she’s done pretending that that’s the life for her. So she runs away to Europe. While playing her guitar on the street, a man tips her more than others have. Their encounter, though, comes off brash, and Ella is sorry and embarrassed. If she ever sees the man again, she knows she must apologize. They do meet again. Ella does apologize. And, he seems familiar somehow. When she finally realizes who he is, she is totally taken with the man, musician Lou Rivers. As they get to know each other, their relationship intensifies and Lou wants more from Ella. Ella, however, first wants to make some decisions about her future. With that being said, their relationship takes a turn for the worst. Will they ever find their way back to each other??

Oh, wow, I was so immersed in Ella and Lou’s story! It was beautiful and alluring! The music. The backdrop of Amsterdam. The love story. Everything just was breathtaking! I was going to give this 5 stars, but for some reason I just couldn’t. Something was missing. And, if I have to be honest, I really didn’t know what that was. Maybe I needed more angst. Like possibly the ex-wife putting a crimp into Ella and Lou’s perfect romance. She maybe wants Lou back. And, then Lou and Ella have trust issues. And, then having to fight to be together. That might have done it for me. I’m not sure. Mostly this was a heartfelt romance with two confident and courageous characters that were meant for each other. Looking forward for more from this author...

Ride written by Harper Dallas (364 pgs) – finished reading 3/27/17 – 4.5 stars - Contemporary Romance (Sports Romance)

4.5 star rating

So emotionally written that I couldn’t help but be drawn into Chase and Brooke’s love story. Chase Austin is a snowboarder. An elite-extreme sports junkie. And, he’s good at what he does. At one time he used to smile and laugh, but something heartbreaking snuffed that right out of his life. Now, he just lives for the thrill of the “ride” and all the different women he has been with to take that pain away. He’s only a one night man. “No serious”. And, when he meets Brooke Larson, who is strong and confident, not needing a man to survive and protect her, Chase is so taken by her. She’s like no one he’s ever met before. But, there’s no way that he will admit to his feelings because he’s too scared that he will ruin her. Brooke, however, doesn’t come without a broken heart herself. She just wants someone to love and take care of her. She’s a fantastic photographer and just wants to prove herself in the industry. Her passion is taking pictures of sports activities and its athletes. And, when she meets Chase, she just wants to be part of his team filming their riding stunts. But, he denies her that chance until an emergency gives him no choice. As these two get to know each other will Chase tell her how he actually feels or just let her walk away? And, will Brooke be able to trust in Chase’s honesty thinking that he will never be able to commit to anyone?

Damn! This was one amazing book! I found myself staying up well late into the night reading it as I just had to find out how everything ended. I wasn’t too sure if this couple was going to get their HEA; especially in one section of the book when their relationship just seemed doomed for them to find happiness together. The book is told in mostly Brooke’s POV until you get to the epilogue and we finally get a chance to hear Chase’s voice express how he actually feels about Brooke. That’s the only complaint that I have is that the book just sort of ends. A big thing was going to happen, and the author just left it at that. What did Brooke say? Or, do we just have to think that it was a positive reaction? Hence the reason for my 4.5 star rating instead of a full 5. Other than that, I loved both main characters. Chase was such a conflicted man. Not very confident with himself. But, deep down he really was a good person. And, Brooke had some not very positive results with the past men in her life. She had some trust issues. The pair together, though, had such great chemistry when at times all they would do is sit in silence and gaze up at the stars. They just seemed very content with each other. There was also a strong sense of loyalty and honesty with the supporting characters. Protective friends and loving family members graced the pages of their love story. I wish, though, that the author would have had Brooke tell Chase that she had his poster plastered on the walls of bedroom when she was a teenager. I think he would have gotten a kick out of that. Unless it was there among the pages, and I missed it. I really did enjoy this debut that Ms. Dallas recently released, and I look forward to reading more of her writing in the future...

And, I just loved that cover! It’s a real eye-catcher!!!

Chained (Caged, #2) written by D.H. Sidebottom (165 pgs) – finished reading 9/29/16 – 5 stars - Contemporary Romance (Dark Thriller)

Holy crap, did I just read that ending correctly?? WTH!!! How can that be?? So many shocking twists and turns!! My God!! I was blown away by the reveals that completed Anderson and Kloe’s love story. And, that was definitely one roller coaster of a ride! I wasn’t always too happy with Anderson’s treatment of Kloe. I think, in reality, he was just trying to prove to her how unfixable he actually was. But, Kloe was determined to get through to him that he was the other half of her soul. They were partners. Each other’s need to survive this cold cruel world that stole their innocence. Their youth. Others had taken away the power for them to make their own choices and revel in some sort of happiness or acceptance, and Kloe was not giving up on her future with Anderson too. This book is a bit more graphic than the first. Yeah, I know, can you believe it? Some details were really hard to stomach. But, the author writes with hard-core emotion and substance. I do, however, think it’s time for me to read a book that is a little more on the fun side. The past three books I’ve read have been very dark and abusive reads. So, it’s onto something that can put a smile on my face and make me laugh not cry...

Caged (Caged, #1) written by D.H. Sidebottom (241 pgs) – finished reading 9/29/16 – 4 stars - Contemporary Romance (Dark Thriller)

Can’t even get a grasp on this one! Talk about an extremely dark read! Both main characters are beyond broken. Heartbreakingly abused beyond anyone’s imagination. Oh, boy, did my heart hurt for both of them. I truly felt that I was alongside them in their agonizing story. The author’s extreme ingenuity of their traumas had me gasping with horror. How much could this pair actually endure as their lives are shredded beyond repair? This is a very graphic novel with abuse, sexual content, and language. I read it in no time as I couldn’t put it down and had to start book two right away after that shocking cliffhanger...

Caught in the Flames written by Kacey Shea (394 pgs) – finished reading 10/2/16 – 4 stars - Contemporary Romance

So, this one goes nowhere like I thought it was going to go, which I am pleased at because I like the unpredictable. Callie was one strong woman who made me laugh and cheer for her. She is a tough as nails car lovin’, firefighter attentive type of gal. The fire station is right down the road, and it attracts the many women living in the vicinity. So, Callie can’t help but be taken in by the hotter than HOT group of males that are in and out of their station.

This was a fun contemporary romance that was perfect for me to take in. With a group of characters that get themselves in some awkward and embarrassing situations, there’s some dreadful confrontations that take place also, and it’s tearfully heartbreaking to read. The heart does mend and forgive, though, eventually. And, a new love does emerge unexpectedly.

With some surprising secrets revealed, this was a pleasant find. There was more to this book than I first thought going into it. I definitely won’t hesitate to pick up another one from this author!

And that guy on the cover?? Just WOW!

Tainted Bodies (333 pgs), Tainted Pictures (330 pgs), and Untainted (281 pgs) (Photographer Trilogy) – written by Sarah Robinson – finished reading 10/11/16 – 5 stars - Contemporary Romance (Romantic Suspense)

Tainted Bodies – This one was a tough one to read! I shed quite a few tears as Kate was physically traumatized by an unknown attacker. It was tragic to read! She is broken both physically and emotionally. The book does end in a bit of a cliffhanger as the reader will not be privy as to who the assailant is yet. Most of the time I find the boyfriend to be a supporter when the woman is assaulted in this manner, but Kate’s partner was not one to first defend her. He runs. And, he just can’t wrap his head around what has happened to her. So, I wasn’t liking Derrick too much. He does eventually come around, but can Kate trust that he will be there for her totally? This was a short first part read to a trilogy. I did, however, enjoy it! But, like I said, it is part of a trilogy so the reader doesn’t get much other than the abusing act that was committed and some of the heroine’s back story. Kate now has to hope that the scumbag gets caught. Looking forward to seeing how Kate moves passed this traumatizing event...

Tainted Pictures – This is definitely a 5-star read! Not knowing where this one is going to end up. The whole thrill of it as I turn page after page. It’s littered with surprises. The bad guy revealed – hopefully! Just couldn’t put it down! Derrick redeeming himself. Kate still dealing with the aftershocks of her attack. But, she’s stronger. More resilient. Can’t give away much more than that without spoilers emerging.Went right into book 3. I was not disappointed whatsoever with this one!

Untainted – Oh, the conclusion to this trilogy really got to me! I was not prepared for some heartbreaking deaths. And, it shook me bad. When you read a trilogy, it’s like you get to know these people personally. And, this, I was not prepared for. Didn’t see it coming at all! But, I knew something big was going to go down eventually. I can’t say too much without giving things away. So, I’ll just leave it at that. Definitely will read more by this author!

Bang Gang written by Jade West (395 pgs) – finished reading 10/9/16 – 5 stars - Contemporary Romance (Erotica)

If you’re looking for a super hot romance, and I mean SCORCHING HOT, then this one is for you! You will be fanning yourself and needing a cool drink during most of this book! But, there’s more to this story than just the sex. It starts off with a couple that never married but had two daughters together, which is told in alternating POV’s between the two main characters. They seem to have a pretty amicable friendship, but is there really more to their relationship than what either one is willing to admit?? Follow Jodie and her former love Darren as they make their way back to each other. Darren, though, has taken on the women of his town with his four workmates to pleasure them for money. And, it’s gotten even Jodie all hot and out-of-sorts. See what happens as their relationship changes from the beginning to the end of this book. I was totally entertained with this one as I hoped that this amazing pair would finally get their HEA! Whew!! Ms. West sure wrote one erotic love story!!

And, how about that cover?? Delicious!!!

Sound Effects (Ripple Effects, #2) written by L.J. Greene (284 pgs) – finished reading 10/15/16 – 5 stars - Contemporary Romance (Rock star)

Another awesome book by L.J. Greene! Jamie and Mel together are the perfect couple! Amazing chemistry! And, they’re both soulful characters. They’re both attracted to each other when they first meet as they begin their relationship in 2004 when the whole music scene is changing. Digital music is introduced as iTunes makes its debut. Social media is catching on. And, MySpace takes on the growing crowd of people being friends via the computer. This was not your typical bad boy drinking and drug use themed rockstar romance. This was more the beginning of a poor rockstar’s quest to get his band off the ground and the ups and downs of the somewhat unstable music industry as times were changing. It was interesting and so believable. You can tell that Ms. Greene did the research to show the book’s support. Both Mel and Jamie were brilliant characters, but it’s Jamie’s Irish words of tenderness and beauty that just made me swoon. While Jamie was a breathtaking male, Mel was such a confident and caring young woman. She understood Jamie and was so supportive of him through good times and bad. Such a powerful couple together. And, the heat beween the two is very passionate. I loved their story, and I’m looking forward to reading more from this author! The characters, the storyline, and the writing was just a gem of a read!!!

Calico written by Callie Hart (256 pgs) – finished reading 10/21/16 – 4 stars - Contemporary Romance (New Adult)

I couldn’t believe my eyes while reading this one. So extremely tragic. I can’t even imagine what poor Coralie went through. Her young life was horrible after her mother’s passing. It was unreal how much that young girl could take from her abusive father. What a tyrant! He does so many unthinkable things to her. He’s just off his rocker! And, her young boyfriend, Callen, has no idea. She hides it from him very well. But, when her father does something so horrific, she decides to leave. If she didn’t fear for her life so much, she should have stuck around. Callen is dealing with a heartbreaking situation of his own, and Coralie just couldn’t bear to ask him to come with her. It would have been so selfish and unfair. So, after twelve years the two meet again under some undo circumstances. They both feel the emotions coming to the surface. What to do with their relationship now? And, when some horrifying secrets are revealed, Callen just doesn’t know how to deal with them. Will this couple find their way back to each other?

Whew! That was one emotional book! Her emotions. His emotions. All over the place. Tears were shed. Words were expressed. And, truths finally were exchanged. I think when Callen finally learns of all the abuse that Coralie had gone through in the past, it breaks him. He knew that her father was protective, but he had no idea to what degree that he would go to keep Coralie all to himself. He was one sick excuse for a human being!

I really enjoyed this book, but it was sad. Finally, though, in the end the couple finds some peace from all the destruction. It’s so so needed for them to move on. This definitely was a far cry from Ms. Hart’s Blood & Roses series. Not so suspenseful. But, definitely worth the read. You won’t be disappointed with this one. A little on the short side, but so much happened between those pages. So many things resolved for the better to enable this couple to be together.

“The present and the future can’t change the past. But the passing of time makes the pain at our backs less severe. All we have to do is face forward and look in the light. Behind us may be dark, bluebird, but I know it in my bones. There are great things up ahead.” ~ Callen (Chap. 25)

Vivienne’s Guilt written by Heather M. Orgeron (240 pgs) – finished reading 8/21/16 – 4 stars - Contemporary Romance

This was definitely a difficult one to read. So heartbreaking and sad. But, Vivienne has a very protective and supporting cast of family and friends. Her world has been just ripped apart while she finds that her daughter is in need of a strong and confident mother. Vivienne is barely hanging on herself. How will she find the strength to cope with his absence?

I don’t want to give away much more than that. This does not have your conventional romantic ending. But, it’s an appropriate ending nonetheless. I loved that epilogue! It was totally fitting! At times I wasn’t always Viv’s biggest fan, but the author made the story work. No one could possibly understand having the love of your life taken at such a young age. So, I was willing to cut her some slack. I loved Reid! He seemed wise beyond his young years. Such a caring and kind sweetheart! And, Tillie, such a cute and brave little girl!

The story will suck you in from page one. Read it in one sitting because I just had to know how the author would wrap this one up. You will need some tissues at times. But, Viv’s story is all about finding your way when devastation takes away your sanity for awhile only to find yourself fighting to regain your strength. I enjoyed this book immensely! And, you will too...

A Thousand Boy Kisses written by Tillie Cole (316 pgs) – finished reading 8/16/16 – 5 stars - Contemporary Romance (Young Adult)

You will love this one! Great characters and a romantic love story! The big reveal is one that I never saw coming. But, it was this author’s writing that had me enthralled throughout the entire book. I couldn’t read it fast enough and was totally blown away with the sweetness of it all. Tillie Cole never ceases to amaze me!!