Will you let your past define you, or do you move on, trying to do better, to make it work? It Ends Tonight tells the story of Quinn and Lucas, who boWill you let your past define you, or do you move on, trying to do better, to make it work? It Ends Tonight tells the story of Quinn and Lucas, who both have to deal with their pasts, pasts that can make or break a person. I hate what happened to them, but I love Quinn and Lucas as a couple.
“When I’m with her, I feel free.”
Quinn has her own party and event planning business, and she loves it. The company is founded by her grandmother, but now it’s hers; with all kinds of new ideas, clients and successes. Personally, Quinn is doing not so well. She thought she had it all planned out, until life couldn’t be planned anymore. Lucas had a horrible childhood; violence and abuse were a ‘normal’ in his young life. Joining a MC was logical choice for him, it gave him some sort of family. But nowadays the club is clean, and Lucas is working as a private investigator / rescuer of abused women. Quinn and Lucas are both not looking for someone, but they can’t deny the pull between them.
“I wonder how it would feel to lean in and kiss him. It’s been so long since I’ve kissed anyone but then again, it’s never been this tempting either.”
Quinn and Lucas meet under unfortunate circumstances, but the moment he sees her, Lucas can’t stay away from Quinn. He’s surprised by his feelings for her; yes, she’s gorgeous and all, but he’s not in the right mindset for anything more serious than just a fling. And Quinn is not fling material. Although Quinn is still dealing with some heavy stuff and is hesitant about dating Lucas, she’s much more open to the idea of a relationship. I get where Lucas is coming from, but I still wanted to smack him a wee bit. Don’t go hot and cold on Quinn, she doesn’t deserve it! I love Quinn and Lucas together, they’re a great couple who deserve a Happily Ever After, after everything they went through.
“I’ve got a lot of shit in my life, Quinn, and the truth is, you’re the only thing I’ve found that brings me any peace.”
It Ends Tonight is my very first book by this author, and I really like it. The leading characters are good people you just want to be happy. Of course, there is some serious drama (otherwise the story would be a bit boring), but it doesn’t take away from Quinn and Lucas falling for each other. It Ends Tonight is the fourth book in the ‘Bayou Devils MC Series’, but I didn’t feel like I was missing information. However, I’m curious about the other couples mentioned in this book, and their stories.
“I love you, you sweet, beautiful man.” “No more than I love you.”
Will you let your past define you, or do you move on, trying to do better, to make it work? It Ends Tonight tells the story of Quinn and Lucas, who both have to deal with their pasts, pasts that can make or break a person. I hate what happened to them, but I love Quinn and Lucas as a couple.
“When I’m with her, I feel free.”
Quinn has her own party and event planning business, and she loves it. The company is founded by her grandmother, but now it’s hers; with all kinds of new ideas, clients and successes. Personally, Quinn is doing not so well. She thought she had it all planned out, until life couldn’t be planned anymore. Lucas had a horrible childhood; violence and abuse were a ‘normal’ in his young life. Joining a MC was logical choice for him, it gave him some sort of family. But nowadays the club is clean, and Lucas is working as a private investigator / rescuer of abused women. Quinn and Lucas are both not looking for someone, but they can’t deny the pull between them.
“I wonder how it would feel to lean in and kiss him. It’s been so long since I’ve kissed anyone but then again, it’s never been this tempting either.”
Quinn and Lucas meet under unfortunate circumstances, but the moment he sees her, Lucas can’t stay away from Quinn. He’s surprised by his feelings for her; yes, she’s gorgeous and all, but he’s not in the right mindset for anything more serious than just a fling. And Quinn is not fling material. Although Quinn is still dealing with some heavy stuff and is hesitant about dating Lucas, she’s much more open to the idea of a relationship. I get where Lucas is coming from, but I still wanted to smack him a wee bit. Don’t go hot and cold on Quinn, she doesn’t deserve it! I love Quinn and Lucas together, they’re a great couple who deserve a Happily Ever After, after everything they went through.
“I’ve got a lot of shit in my life, Quinn, and the truth is, you’re the only thing I’ve found that brings me any peace.”
It Ends Tonight is my very first book by this author, and I really like it. The leading characters are good people you just want to be happy. Of course, there is some serious drama (otherwise the story would be a bit boring), but it doesn’t take away from Quinn and Lucas falling for each other. It Ends Tonight is the fourth book in the ‘Bayou Devils MC Series’, but I didn’t feel like I was missing information. However, I’m curious about the other couples mentioned in this book, and their stories.
“I love you, you sweet, beautiful man.” “No more than I love you.”
Gifts is already the third book in the ‘Killers Series’ by Brynne Asher and takes the reader back to the world of small towns, Alpha’s and sweet womenGifts is already the third book in the ‘Killers Series’ by Brynne Asher and takes the reader back to the world of small towns, Alpha’s and sweet women. This is the story of Asa and Keelie, and their children. I love it.
"Having him here in my space—space that’s been mine and mine alone for almost two years now—is … strange. I’m trying hard not to let it make me nervous, but even more, I’m trying my damnedest not to like it."
Keelie would happily run back to the big city, but she doesn’t want to uproot her young children once again. After the death of her husband she’s left with huge farmhouse and between her work as a school counselor, taking care of her kids and an endless stream of do-it-yourself projects, she doesn’t have time for much else. Like Keelie, Asa is a man who’s focused on his kids. He has missed much of their younger years due to his work, but now he’s making up for the lost time. Keelie and Asa aren’t looking for somebody, but both can’t deny the chemistry between them.
“Never knew I could have it this good,” he breathes against my lips. “Wasn’t looking for anything. Found you on the side of the road, standing in a ditch—then you go and knock me on my ass and I fall in love.”
Since Gifts is the third book in the ‘Killer Series’, we not only meet Keelie and Asa (we’ve seen snippets of him before), but we also see characters from the previous books. The tone of Vines and Paths was lighter than the author’s other series, but Gifts is a bit more serious; no crazy cows or weird antics this time. It’s all about Keelie and Asa falling in love and making it work for them and the four children involved.
I love romance and suspense, and for me Gifts has the right mixture. I love Asa. Above all he’s a good father who’s making a life for himself and his teenagers. He’s also a bit older and knows what he wants and takes care of the people he loves. Poor Keelie, her husband’s actions had a huge impact on her life, so I understand her hesitation towards Asa. They just belong together. An important part of a Brynne Asher book is the ‘villain’, and I had my suspicions as I do every time, but I was wrong! (well, partial). I didn’t see it coming. Bravo Ms. Asher!
“I’m going to marry you.” My fingers tense in his hair and I’m overcome by his words. As my eyes well, I whisper, “You are, are you.” He presses his still hard cock into me. “As soon as I can. And even when you’re wearing my ring, you can ask me not to leave you and my answer will always be the same. Never. Never, baby.”
Gifts is already the third book in the ‘Killers Series’ by Brynne Asher and takes the reader back to the world of small towns, Alpha’s and sweet women. This is the story of Asa and Keelie, and their children. I love it.
"Having him here in my space—space that’s been mine and mine alone for almost two years now—is … strange. I’m trying hard not to let it make me nervous, but even more, I’m trying my damnedest not to like it."
Keelie would happily run back to the big city, but she doesn’t want to uproot her young children once again. After the death of her husband she’s left with huge farmhouse and between her work as a school counselor, taking care of her kids and an endless stream of do-it-yourself projects, she doesn’t have time for much else. Like Keelie, Asa is a man who’s focused on his kids. He has missed much of their younger years due to his work, but now he’s making up for the lost time. Keelie and Asa aren’t looking for somebody, but both can’t deny the chemistry between them.
“Never knew I could have it this good,” he breathes against my lips. “Wasn’t looking for anything. Found you on the side of the road, standing in a ditch—then you go and knock me on my ass and I fall in love.”
Since Gifts is the third book in the ‘Killer Series’, we not only meet Keelie and Asa (we’ve seen snippets of him before), but we also see characters from the previous books. The tone of Vines and Paths was lighter than the author’s other series, but Gifts is a bit more serious; no crazy cows or weird antics this time. It’s all about Keelie and Asa falling in love and making it work for them and the four children involved.
I love romance and suspense, and for me Gifts has the right mixture. I love Asa. Above all he’s a good father who’s making a life for himself and his teenagers. He’s also a bit older and knows what he wants and takes care of the people he loves. Poor Keelie, her husband’s actions had a huge impact on her life, so I understand her hesitation towards Asa. They just belong together. An important part of a Brynne Asher book is the ‘villain’, and I had my suspicions as I do every time, but I was wrong! (well, partial). I didn’t see it coming. Bravo Ms. Asher!
“I’m going to marry you.” My fingers tense in his hair and I’m overcome by his words. As my eyes well, I whisper, “You are, are you.” He presses his still hard cock into me. “As soon as I can. And even when you’re wearing my ring, you can ask me not to leave you and my answer will always be the same. Never. Never, baby.”
There are two sides to every story; especially to a story of two young people who love each other, but who are forced apart. Broken Halo tells the stoThere are two sides to every story; especially to a story of two young people who love each other, but who are forced apart. Broken Halo tells the story of Ellie and Trig; a couple that clearly belongs together, but who have deal with the ugly truths of their past. I love this second-chance story.
“History. It can tear you up and put you back together in a way you’ll never look the same.”
Ellie is a single mom and still recovering from the ordeal her death ex-husband has put her through. She’s absolutely not sad about his death and is even regretting the day she met him. Well, that’s not entirely true. She loves their son Griffin; the little boy is her everything. When Ellie sees her ex-boyfriend/love of her life Trig again, her heart hurts. All the memories – good and bad – are coming back full force. The same goes for Trig. Losing Ellie has hurt him in the worst way, and he realizes he needs answers to find some peace.
“What are you doing?” “Shh.” His hush tickles my temple and I tense, waiting for … something. Another touch, his warmth, his lips…”
My heart breaks for Ellie and Trig. They were so in love as youngsters. They made plans, even though they knew their families wouldn’t approve. And boy, how right they were. Fast forward 10 years, and Ellie and Trig are still not over their breakup. Yes, they both have moved on, but they’re still thinking about the other, believing in the ugly stories other people have told them. I was so happy when all was out in the open, and Ellie and Trig finally got their so deserved Happily Ever After.
Broken Halo is the second book in the ‘Montgomery Series’ and is a bit different then the first book. Book one was more fun, but this book is far more serious. And that’s not weird given the history of Ellie and Trig. They have to work through some painful things, so I’m happy with the way Brynne Asher has written their story. But there also a lot of similarities with other books by this author; a sweet leading lady, an Alpha hero, a few bad guys and a whole bunch of friendly, supportive side characters. I love Broken Halo; Ellie and Trig are an amazing couple, and I love their story (even though it made my heart hurt a bit…)
“My angel.” I am. I’ve always been his. I might look different than I ever have, but I’m better. And I’m not broken anymore.”
Falling in love in college? That’s not the most difficult thing in the world. But what if your world is more then just you? Meet Katrina; student and Falling in love in college? That’s not the most difficult thing in the world. But what if your world is more then just you? Meet Katrina; student and single mom. She should stay far away from popular jock Joel but resisting him is hard. The Fadeaway tells their charming story.
“We play this game every week. He hits on me and I turn him down. He thinks we’re playing the longest game of hard-to-get ever. We’re not. Or, I’m not anyway.”
Katrina is a hard-working student. Besides her study and her part-time job, the main man in her life is her 3-year-old son Christian. She gets help from the grandparents and Christian’s dad, but most of the time its just the two of them. Love isn’t on her radar, but it’s hard to resist a persistent guy with a crush. Joel is the man of the campus, destined for greatness with the basketball game. He’s doesn’t mind the sport groupies, but the moment Katrina is on his radar she’s it for him. And now, he has to play a different game… Good luck Joel…
“She makes a little sound somewhere between a scoff and a laugh that sounds like the sweetest purr. I smile. She’s not a Kat, she’s a cute, playful Kitty.”
Katrina and Joel are a swoon worthy couple. They still young, but life has given them both some hard life lessons already. Joel had his heart broken, and Katrina had to learn to juggle being a mom and student. Both are not looking for love, but they see that special spark in each other. I love the normalness of their developing relationship, no crazy over-the-top angst-y moments or meddling exes. Just two young people falling for each other and trying to make it work.
The Fadeaway is my very first book by Rebecca Jenshak, and I have really enjoyed reading it. It’s book 2 in the ‘Smart Jocks Series’, but I didn’t feel like I was missing something from the previous book. Katrina and Joel are a realistic young couple; they’re getting to know each other, but at the same time it’s business as usual with their lives. Joel and Katrina are very likeable characters, and I love them for each other.
“What do you say, Kitty? Go out with me?” I say yes, like I wanted to from the first time he asked.”
Swoonie-swoon… It’s almost that time of the year again… Christmas! And what is a Christmas without sweet and funny romantic short stories. Sweet and rSwoonie-swoon… It’s almost that time of the year again… Christmas! And what is a Christmas without sweet and funny romantic short stories. Sweet and romantic because that’s what we love, short because we don’t have much time to read with all the Christmas Chaos (family, presents, dinners, and all the mayhem that goes with it). Christmas Sugar is just how I love my Christmas novellas; it’s adorable with a swoon-worthy couple.
“I like it better when you’re smiling. Especially at me. You have a beautiful smile.” Her eyes widened, her breathing picked up. “Dylan, you can’t… You shouldn’t…”
Dylan and Alex are both hard-working people, but that’s where the similarity stops. He is a business tycoon always looking for the next deal or take-over, she runs a small, family hotel. Dylan has a structured life, without personal attachments (besides his mother-like PA), Alex’s life is filled with taking care of her kids and friends. Dylan and Alex have a complete opposite view of life and love, but when they meet, they can’t deny the spark between them.
“What had I done? One moment, we were arguing and the next… Kissing! I ran a hand through my hair. What the hell was I thinking, kissing a total stranger? Except—she didn’t feel like a stranger.”
Alex and Dylan are both very likeable people. Dylan seems like the cold business man, but you sense he wants something different, something more. And in Alex, he just finds that. That little bit of extra, that makes you really look at a person and makes you dream of the future. Alex may doesn’t have much, but she has the love of her kids. She’s a small-town girl through and through who doesn’t want to live in the big city. Alex and Dylan are a swoon-worthy couple, and you know from the get-go they’ll end up together.
Christmas Sugar might be a short novella, but it feels as a full-length book. Dylan and Alex are real like people with previous lives who fall for each other. Given the length of the book the story is just about our couple, without extra storylines or extra drama-for-the-sake-of-drama. Just two grown-up people who want to build a life together after having fallen deeply in love with each other. Is it all realistic? Uh, not really… But that’s not what this is story is about. It’s about love, family and Christmas. And for that Christmas Sugar is perfect; it’s cute and swoon worthy.
“I captured her mouth with mine, kissing her deeply. I could taste her sweetness. Feel her love. She was the very best kind of sugar.”
What would you do when your marriage falls apart after almost 20 years? Crumble down, or pick up the pieces of your broken heart and move on? StealingWhat would you do when your marriage falls apart after almost 20 years? Crumble down, or pick up the pieces of your broken heart and move on? Stealing It tells the charming (and sometimes angst-y) story of Magnolia and Aiden, who are just perfect for each other. I’ve enjoyed reading it.
“You are the most beautiful creature I’ve ever seen. Are you actually human?” Her blush stains high on her cheeks.”
Magnolia thought she had it all; husband, daughter, great house, good job. When she finds out about the affair of her hubby and his much younger secretary, she and Kendall – her teenage daughter – move away to start over in Bronze Bay. Busy with building their new life, Magnolia isn’t really looking for a man, but she can’t say no to Aiden. Aiden is a Navy SEAL who has seen everything, good and awfully bad. Magnolia is very different from the women Aiden normally dates but staying away from her is impossible.
“My breathing speeds and my stomach tightens. I’m in unknown territory, so even though I know this is a normal feeling, I can’t control my hands as they clench and unclench by my side.”
I feel sorry for Magnolia. Finding out about her husband’s cheating the way she did, not good. But she doesn’t crumble down and begs. She takes control, control over her and Kendell’s life and their new future. Magnolia is still a bit unsure about herself, so it’s no surprise she’s a bit hesitant about Aiden. He’s such a man, so different then her ex, she just doesn’t know what to make of him, and her feelings for him. Aiden on the other hand is very sure about Magnolia. He sees a good, loving woman and quickly realizes she’s forever material.
I love Magnolia and Aiden together. Although they come from different places, they are right for each other. Stealing It is mostly a sweet story, but since this is a Rachel Robinson book, you know the couple has to work for their Happily Ever After. And Magnolia and Aiden are no different. Personally, I think the author puts our couple too much through the wringer, but my inner angst-addict doesn’t mind. The ending of Stealing Itis sweet, just what Aiden and Magnolia deserve.
“He looks so dashing and handsome. The picture of love and respect. He stands, taking me into his arms. Seeking out his lips, I kiss him deeply.”
Falling for a guy when everything is a stake, when your life is spiraling out of control… Wise or not? Falling for a woman you absolutely can’t fall fFalling for a guy when everything is a stake, when your life is spiraling out of control… Wise or not? Falling for a woman you absolutely can’t fall for, personal-wise and business-wise… Yes or no? All of Me tells the story Grace and Ian, who both are at a very different point in life. I’ve enjoyed reading this story very much.
“She was a mess. A gorgeous fucking mess. A disaster waiting to happen.”
Grace is at her wits end. She finally has taken control of her own life again, but she’s in desperate need of help. Help of a good attorney who can help her to get what’s hers, to protect what she loves. Having a one-night stand is not her thing, but when Grace embraces her inner vixen for once, she lets go. Enter Ian, a ruthless, detached attorney on the brink of reaching his goal. Ian and Grace hit it off right away, thinking they’ll never see each other again. But to their surprise, they meet again… As attorney and client… They can’t be a couple but staying away is impossible.
“Making his claim. Marking me. Every inch. Body and heart and soul. I was right. I was right. I was never going to be the same.”
I feel so sorry for Grace. She thought she had it all, until slowly her life started to change. Bit by bit her dreams went up in smoke and walking away is the only possible outcome. But it’s not just about her, is also very much about her kids, who she feels deserve a better life. There’s only so much money can buy, and love and happiness can’t be bought. Ian might seem cold and calculating, but for Grace he’s a knight in shining armor. He goes out of his way to help Grace, and the fight isn’t easy. I love Grace and Ian together, they both are what the other needs.
All of Me is a true A.L. Jackson book, full of feelings and emotions. Starting this book, I had the idea it would be your typical attorney/client romance, but the story is so much more than that. Ian and Grace are the main couple of course, but Grace does have her children to think about. I love how Ian quickly realizes Grace is a mom first, that her kids are very important to her. But that doesn’t mean Ian and Grace don’t get to know each other… I love the ending of story, it’s everything Grace and Ian deserve.
“I love you so much it hurts, Ian. So much that I can feel you etched on my skin. Written on my heart. Marked on me forever. You are my gift. The hero I never expected.”
Stories about single parents, I love them. I love to see how the parent finds new love, but also how the partner is with the kid(s). Scoring Mr. RomeoStories about single parents, I love them. I love to see how the parent finds new love, but also how the partner is with the kid(s). Scoring Mr. Romeo tells the story of single mom Sabrina and Luca, and cute Mikey. I love the three of them together!
“His overall presence just made me feel safe. Why that would be something I felt when I barely knew him, I truly had no idea. One thing I knew for sure, I liked him.”
Sabrina is a single mom to her young son Mikey, and isn’t looking for a new man in her life. She’s still dealing with the aftermath of her husband’s sudden death, and feels it’s too soon for her and Mikey to move on. Luca is your typical playboy; he’s serious about his work and friends, but not so much when it comes to woman. When Sabrina and Luca meet, there’s an instant attraction, but they try to hide behind Mikey. Sabrina thinks she and Mikey don’t need a guy in their lives, and Luca pretends he only interacts with Sabrina because she has such a cool kid. But, this is a romantic story, so you know what’s going to happen…
“I wanted to kiss her. With each second I waited, it appeared she wanted me to. But with kissing her came uncertainty. Was she ready for this? Was she ready for more?”
Scoring Mr. Romeo is my first book by author-duo A.M. Madden and Joanne Schwehm and I was pleasantly surprised. I like how they build the story, and how the characters are written. The story is told from a dual POV, so you know what both Sabrina and Luca are thinking, and why they react a certain way. Scoring Mr. Romeo is the third book in the ‘Mr. Wrong Series’, but I didn’t feel like I was missing background information. However, I’m curious for these books now…
Sabrina is a good mom to her kid, and what she has been through was horrible. I so get her hesitation towards Luca, to give into her feelings, she has been burned badly. Luca is a great guy who’s surprised about his reaction towards Sabrina and Mikey. Although he hasn’t been serious about a woman before, he quickly realizes she and her son are important to him. Scoring Mr. Romeo is a sweet book, there’s no added drama or over-the-top situations, just two people trying to make it work.
“Thank you for coming back to me.” “Thank you for waiting.” “Deep down, I know I would’ve waited forever for you.”
My favorite RomCom series is without any doubt the ‘Chocolate Lovers Series’, I love the craziness, the hilarious antics and the in-your-face characteMy favorite RomCom series is without any doubt the ‘Chocolate Lovers Series’, I love the craziness, the hilarious antics and the in-your-face characters. The author’s last few books I’ve read where far more serious and dealing with heavy subjects, but with At the Stroke of Midnight Tara Sivec is back with a charming RomCom. I simply love it.
“A lady never shows her emotions. A lady should also never lie, but under the circumstances, it’s better this way.”
The past 13 years Cynthia has dedicated herself to her family; her husband, daughter and the house were her priority. When hubby-douche decides to run off with the babysitter and leave a financial mess behind, Cynthia is hurt and angry. Hurt that he left, and very angry for the mess. Keeping up appearances has been her go-to, but Cynthia can’t continue this way. With the help of two new friends and a new love, she embraces her true self.
“I’ve never been kissed like this before, so hard and gentle all at the same time. His warm, soft palms still hold my face in place, but his lips are bruising, and his tongue should be registered as a weapon of mass destruction for how perfectly it slides and pushes against my own.”
At the Stroke of Midnight is the first book in the ‘Naughty Princess Club Series’, and it’s a true RomCom. Yes, not everything is funny, but overall, it’s a light story with a great set of different characters. The way Cynthia and her friends Ariel and Belle handle things is funny and charming at the same time, they make me laugh and shake my head. I can’t wait for the two other books in the series, and to get to know more about Belle and Ariel.
Cynthia life is falling apart, so feelings for a man are not on her mind. But in the midst of the chaos she meets someone special. PJ is the complete opposite of her ideal man, but it turns out he’s everything she needs. I love Cynthia and PJ together, and I love how PJ supports Cynthia with her new career. Although this is the story of Cynthia finding new love with PJ, it’s much more the story of Cynthia finding herself again. I love the real Cynthia.
“Are you really in love with me?” he whispers. I nuzzle his hand before looking back up into his eyes. “Of course I am, you idiot. I’m so in love with you it scares the hell out of me.”
Would you be able to move on when your last relationship ended in absolute horror? Would you have the courage to take a chance at a new love? Since I Would you be able to move on when your last relationship ended in absolute horror? Would you have the courage to take a chance at a new love? Since I met Maisy in The Coppersmith Farmhouse I’ve always been curious about her and her young son. The Bitterroot Inn tells the story of Maisy finding her happy with a good guy, and I love it.
“Maisy Holt was under my skin. Hell, I’d almost kissed her today. I’d been in Prescott for less than a week and she was all I could think about.”
After her ordeal, Maisy has thrown herself into loving and taking care of her son Coby, and building her inn. She gets lots of help from her family and friends, but lately she starts to feel lonely. All her friends have found love, and Maisy wants that too, somebody to share her life with. But thanks to her psycho ex, she doesn’t trust easily, doesn’t let new people in. New-in-town Hunter however is an exception.
Hunter moves to Prescott to start a new chapter in his life. Years ago, he has seen Maisy, and to this day he’s thinking about her, hoping he might have a chance with her and her son. Hunter knows very well the secret he carries can ruin everything, but he’s willing to put his heart on the line.
“His eyes weren’t waiting for mine as I’d expected. They were locked on my mouth, doing some lip inspection of their own. Did he want to kiss me too? At the thought, my tongue darted out automatically and wet my bottom lip. Hunter’s eyes flared and snapped to mine.”
The Bitterroot Inn is the fifth (and sadly the last) book in ‘the Jamison Valley Series’. Like the other books in the series this story is sweet with a bit of drama. Nothing over-the-top, but it adds to the storyline. Maisy and Hunter are a great couple, Cody is an adorable little boy and I love to see the couples from the previous books again.
I’m so happy for Maisy that she gets her HEA, after everything her ex put her through she deserves nothing less. Hunter, Hunter, Hunter… You’re a loving and sexy guy, but ‘lying’ to Maisy is not okay in my book. I get the reason why he kept it a secret, but I’m still angry with him. I’m glad Maisy let him grovel for a bit, but I would have let him spend a lot longer in the doghouse. But even after everything, I love Maisy and Hunter together (and with Cody), they bring out the best in each other.
“It was everything I had ever wanted for my life. A happy life. A life filled with more love than some people found in a lifetime. A life with a man that would forever make me smile.”
Follow Me Back tells the story of Kale and Hope, and both are not looking for love. He because he thinks its not for him, she because her life is compFollow Me Back tells the story of Kale and Hope, and both are not looking for love. He because he thinks its not for him, she because her life is complicated enough as it is. But as in other A.L. Jackson stories, these two deserve real love, and that’s what they get.
“Ideas thrummed through my mind. The dangerous, dangerous kind. Ones that made me question and want and wish I could have something more in my life. But I didn’t need more. I had enough.”
Hope is working hard to make a living for herself. Her divorce has left her wounded, and her ex makes it hard to move on. She has her own coffee-shop, but her real priority in life is her young son Evan. He means the world to her, and she does everything for the little man. Being busy with Evan and the shop, there’s no time for fun, and she keeps her distance to other people. Kale is the exception to her rule, and soon they spend much more time together.
Kale is a hardworking doctor, and while he sees the good and bad side of life on a daily base, he loves his job. Kale hasn’t had a serious relationship since college; he doesn’t mind hookups, but love is not for him (or so he thinks). However, Hope is different. Kale tries to keep it casual, but soon he spends a lot of time with her and Evan.
“This woman had singlehandedly made me question everything. What I wanted and where I was going and what I stood for. I wasn’t supposed to need anyone.”
Like other books by A.L. Jackson, Follow Me Back is a story full of emotions and loveable characters. The story is written in a dual POV and gives Kale and Hope both a voice. Follow Me Back is the second book in the ‘Fight for Me Series’, but it can be read as a standalone. The couple of the previous book is mentioned a few times, but this is Kale and Hope’s story.
Hope and Kale are a great couple. What starts out as a bit of flirting, soon evolves into more. But both have secrets, or simply don’t share important pieces of their lives. I was relieved when all was out in the open. Yes, I knew it was going to hurt, but you can’t build a solid relationship on lies. Hope’s son Evan is the cutest little boy. As a mom of young children, I always pay attention to how a writer ‘writes’ a kid, and Evan is just so real. I love Hope and Kale together, and how Kale is with Evan. He might not be the boy’s real father, but the three of them just belong together.
“He set me on my feet and took my face in his hands. He leaned down and captured my mouth in a dizzying kiss. Soft and tender and slow. A promise. A passionate claiming. And my unstable world . . . it no longer spun. It danced.”
Every now and then I love to read a story about an Alpha guy and the woman he falls for. I have my favorite authors for these stories, but I’m always Every now and then I love to read a story about an Alpha guy and the woman he falls for. I have my favorite authors for these stories, but I’m always looking for new ones. Lately, new Alpha stories are a hit or miss for me; it’s a fine line between Alpha and Asshole, and a lot lean more towards the latter. Not cool at all… Devney Perry’s debut book The Coppersmith Farmhouse however is a big hit for me; I love the characters, the small town of Prescott. But most of all, I adore her writing.
“Though it was terrifying to be in a whole new place, it felt amazing to be starting over. Starting an adventure. Replacing the loneliness I had felt in Spokane with excitement. Leaving all of the bad memories from the past behind.”
Gigi is on her way to Prescott, to start a new life for herself and her 4-year-old daughter Roe. Leaving her old town behind is the best thing; after the deaths of her mother and her friend Ben she has nobody left, and she can’t refuse the house Ben left her in his will. Since Gigi’s fling with Roe’s father ended in a complete disaster, she isn’t looking for a man, she’s content with her life and her daughter is her everything. Meeting sheriff Jess confuses her. Yes, the man is handsome, but oh so rude. When his behavior does a 180, she doesn’t know what to think of it.
“Why did he have to be so perfect? Couldn’t he have gotten uglier these last few days? But I wasn’t going to let him fluster me. He was just a hot guy and I needed to keep my cool and get him the hell out of here. Because even though he was hot, he was a complete jerk.”
Jess is born and raised in Prescott, Montana. When his father walked out on his family, Jess became responsible for his sweet but fragile mother and his younger sister Felicity. Luckily, one of the townsmen – Ben – took him under his wings, to teach him the things a man should know growing up. Nowadays Jess is the Prescott sheriff, he likes his job, his town and his life in general. He isn’t seeing anybody, but since he’s an attractive man he has no problem finding a willing partner when he wants to. Jess thinks he knows all about Gigi, but when he sees her in person he realizes his assumptions are wrong.
“Not that I was complaining about the kiss. I’d be okay with one of those every day for the rest of my life. Damn. Why had I let him kiss me? I shouldn’t have let him win the argument. I should have pushed away. I was effing confused.”
To say the first few meetings between Gigi and Jess are not pleasant is a bit of an understatement. Jess assumes Gigi is a ‘gold-digger’ who swindled Ben out of his house, and Gigi is sure Jess is nothing but rude douchebag. It doesn’t take long before Jess realizes his mistake, but a first impression is what sticks… But there is an attraction between them, and Gigi isn’t the person to hold a mean grudge. Slowly they get to know each other, and Jess and Gigi just match. Because of Gigi’s daughter Roe they don’t rush things, but it’s clear they will be together.
I love the story of Jess and Gigi! However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Jess never had a serious relationship in his life and clearly needs to learn how to communicate. Especially with the woman he wants to build a life with. Gigi forgives Jess for his ‘missteps’, but not after explaining loud and clear what he did wrong. She’s no doormat at all, but she chooses her battles. Not everything is worth fighting over. Besides Jess and Gigi’s building relationship there’s a suspense plotline throughout the story. It adds to the story, and doesn’t take away from the main storyline.
“He kissed me. A kiss so long and deep, I forgot all about the bad stuff in life and just remembered the good. Because we had a lot. And we were going to live it good together.”
I adore this book, plain and simple. I give The Coppersmith Farmhouse 5 stars. I can’t wait for the future books by this author.
Tempt the Boss is the fourth book by Natasha Madison, and tells the story of a woman finding love again after her marriage fell apart. Yes, the start Tempt the Boss is the fourth book by Natasha Madison, and tells the story of a woman finding love again after her marriage fell apart. Yes, the start of the book is painful, but the rest of story is funny. The author’s last two books are unfortunately not on my favorite list, but I do like Tempt the Boss; Lauren, Austin and their funny story.
“Gabe! Rachel! Time to get up, guys! Mommy starts her new job today,” I yell, hoping they hear me. I take another sip of my coffee before I make my way upstairs to get ready for my new job. Yay me.”
It has been six months since Lauren has found out her husband decided he needed to trade his wife in for a younger woman. Yes, Lauren has been upset, angry and everything, but with two kids to take care of she can’t let herself drown in her sorrows. It’s time to think of herself and start her own career, and with the help of a friend she finds a temporary position with a local business. After what happened with her ex Lauren isn’t looking for a new guy, but her new boss is tempting… Too bad he’s a cocky douche…
“I asked for a coffee,” He stops me, and my head turns and I snap. “No. You didn’t ask, you demanded. After you insulted me. Again. And for the record, when someone asks another person for something, it is customary that they follow the request with the word ‘please.’ The coffee’s done. Help yourself.”
Austin is a young, successful developer who’s your to-go guy when you’re in need of a new restaurant or nightclub. He’s a bit of the stereotype business owner; rich, hot as hell and never short of a willing bedpartner who understands the ‘no commitment’ arrangement. The moment he meets Lauren he’s attracted to her, but when he finds out she’s actually his temp assistant he tries to put her in the ‘no-go’ zone. Too bad his body (and heart) doesn’t agree…
“I’ll have you know that I’m the nicest guy here.” I have no idea why I’m trying to convince her of this. I couldn’t care less if she likes me or not. I’m her boss, she is my temp. The fact that I want to see her smile at me is not the point right now.”
The first meeting of Lauren and Austin is pretty hostile; they both are angry with each other and keep growling about the other one until they meet again… In the office of Austin where Lauren is supposed to work as his assistant. Yes, Lauren and Austin are physically attracted to each other, but they can’t act normal when they’re in the same room. Secretly they start to have feelings for each other, but they mask it with funny pranks and snarky comments. When Austin and Lauren finally hit it off, nobody is surprised, except the lovebirds themselves.
Tempt the Boss is a standalone story about two people who start out as ‘enemies’, but you just know they will end up together. It’s a romantic comedy, and the pranks Lauren and Austin pull on each other… Yes, I laughed at the prank stuff, but sometimes my mind went like ‘Noooo, she wouldn’t… Is he really???? What did she do there???’ But hey, this is a. comedy and b. a fictional story, so I totally don’t mind the over-the-top pranks, I love them. I adore Lauren and her feisty attitude. Yes, her hubby hurt her pretty bad, but she came out the winner. She and Austin are a great couple, and he is great with her kids.
“I love how you love me. I love how safe you make me feel. How you make me feel so sexy and, most of all, so loved that it’s overwhelming.”
I’ve enjoyed reading Tempt the Boss very much, I give the funny story of Lauren and Austin 4 stars.
Pieces of Heaven is the second book in the ‘Heaven & Hell Series’ by Natasha Madison. It tells the story of Marissa and Mick, two characters we’ve metPieces of Heaven is the second book in the ‘Heaven & Hell Series’ by Natasha Madison. It tells the story of Marissa and Mick, two characters we’ve met in the previous book of the series, Hell and Back. I love the author’s debut book Something So Right, but for some reason this series and I don’t have click. I wish it was different because I love stories about Alpha men and their sassy ladies.
“Had heaven in my hands and I let it go. Fucked it up. Now I’m living in hell.”
Marissa is a 32-year-old mom who doesn’t have an easy life. Her parents kicked her out when she got pregnant at 16, so she started living with her good-for-nothing boyfriend. When the boyfriend leaves her with his huge debt, Marissa has no other choice but to start working at a strip club to pay off the money. Unfortunately, her daughter Lori hangs out with the wrong crowd and disappears. When Marissa calls in her missing girl, police officer Mick shows up to see what’s going on and what the police can do. Soon, he becomes very important to her.
“I’m dreaming, or at least I think it’s a dream. I don’t open my eyes yet. I just bask in the heat of my cocoon. I’m wrapped up in his arms, my cheek resting on his chest. His heart beats a lullaby, prolonging my rest.”
Mick didn’t have the easiest childhood. His parents had a ‘hidden’ relationship and when his father breaks it off, his mother spirals out of control into drugs and stripping. Being good at football earns Mick a scholarship, giving him the chance at a better future. For a long time, Mick is in a messy relationship, but finally he’s done with his girlfriend who promises him everything, but does the opposite. Right at that time he meets Marissa, a distressed mom who gets under his skin very fast.
“I know I shouldn’t be doing this, shouldn’t even be thinking about this, that this is going to end fucking badly for everyone. But I just don’t care right now, not one fucking bit. My heart beats just a tiny bit faster because of her, and I don’t think it’s done that for anyone.”
The first meeting of Marissa and Mick doesn’t go very well. Because of his past with his mother, Mick makes some assumptions about Marissa and speaks them out loud. But the more time they spend together, Mick sees Marissa is nothing like his mother; she’s a sweet and honest woman who didn’t have much luck in life. Mick falls for Marissa fast and hard, Marissa is a bit more realistic, but she too can’t help falling for Mick. Between the search for Lori and the aftermath of her ordeal and an evil ex-girlfriend, they have plenty time for hot and sexy encounters, Mick is quite the dirty talker…
Unfortunately, a book is more than just its characters and their interactions. It’s about the actions, reactions and the situations the author places her characters in. While I like Mick, Marissa and their whirlwind, over-the-top, sexy courtship, some of the situations and descriptions felt too much for me. I wondered if the author wrote them in for shock, or to explain how awful a scene was. For me, it didn’t add to the storyline. Mick is a nice guy with a sad past, but I can’t understand why he lets his ex-girlfriend string him along for as long as she did. I’m glad he found Marissa, who showed him how real love looks like.
“Does it ever get bad?” she says later that night after we locked up and made sure the kids were okay. I climb in after her, grabbing her in my arms and kissing her neck, smelling the strawberry soap she has on her. “Nope, not when you’re touching pieces of heaven.”
I like Marissa and Mick, but because of my issues I give Pieces of Heaven 3 stars.
“My heart ached for the boss. He needed more in his life than a beaten up ole hound dog, but I was all he had.”
DaOne Careful Owner ~ 4.5 stars
“My heart ached for the boss. He needed more in his life than a beaten up ole hound dog, but I was all he had.”
Dawn is working as a veterinarian in a small town and lives with her eight-year-old daughter Katie. The relationship with Katie’s father ended in a complete disaster, leaving Dawn a bit scared to start dating again. And besides that, she’s busy enough with her life as it is; Katie, her work and her friends take a lot of her time. The moment the new town recluse Alex comes into the clinic with his dog Stan, Dawn senses there is more to the silent man then she can see.
“I dreamed about him that night. Totally inappropriate dreams for a respectable single mother who rarely dated and whose eight year-old daughter was sleeping in the next room.”
Alex has it all; a good marriage, a successful company, everything. Until he hasn’t. Alex doesn’t handle the aftermath very well and just breaks down. After that, he leaves the city with just his beloved dog Stan to start a new, solitary life in a quiet town, away from everything. But aging Stan needs to see the town vet, and the vet turns out to be an attractive woman. Slowly, Alex warms up to her and her young daughter and starts to become human again.
“Dawn, I haven’t dated anyone in a long while.” I gazed at him skeptically. “Really? Why?” He looked away. “Coming here has been… a fresh s-start for me.” “You don’t like to talk about your past.” “Neither do you,”
Both Dawn and Alex are damaged by previous relationships. They both got burned badly, leaving them skittish to open their heart for love again. Dawn sees past the silence and rugged appearance of Alex, and treats him like a normal human while the other townspeople see him as a danger. Dawn and Alex dance around each other for a bit, but they can’t deny the attraction between them. The road to their Happily Ever After is a rocky one; secrets and misunderstandings create some angst-y moments.
One Careful Owner is written in the way I enjoy the author’s work for; realistic people in realistic situations. I understand Dawn’s hesitation to bring Alex into the life of her daughter, especially after she finds out his ‘secret activities’. It’s not just her life, she also has to think about Katie and what it will do to her. I love Dawn and Alex together; they are sweet and normal together, and Alex is a wee bit dirty in the bedroom. At the beginning of the book, Dawn’s sister Stella was a nasty piece of work. I love how she turned around, and that she and Dawn where able to be real sisters again. And Stan.. This is probably the first book I’ve read where an animal has his own POV, I liked his inner thoughts.
“I’ll love you harder than anyone else ever could. I’ll protect you and I’ll give you everything I have. I’ll be the man I need to be for you and for Katie.” “I know. Because I love you, too.”
I’ve enjoyed reading One Careful Owner, I give the story of Dawn and Alex 4.5 star.
As a reader and a blogger, I love to discover new, debut authors. Unfortunately, this debut book didn’t work for me. I don’t mind reading a bit inexpeAs a reader and a blogger, I love to discover new, debut authors. Unfortunately, this debut book didn’t work for me. I don’t mind reading a bit inexperienced story, authors need to learn to write, and I’m in awe for those who give it an honest try (I know I wouldn’t).
Based upon the blurb I expected a story with sorrow and angst, but all goes very nice and friendly. My biggest issue is the number of POV’s. For me personally it was too much, I wanted to know more about Harper and her difficult past, and more about her and Dakota.