It's been ages since I last read a Kelly Jamieson novel. So I jumped at the chance to review an early copy of The O Zone, and I'm so happy I did. 4.5⭐
It's been ages since I last read a Kelly Jamieson novel. So I jumped at the chance to review an early copy of The O Zone, and I'm so happy I did.
As The O Zone was a delightful read, but then I shouldn't have expected anything less as Ms Jamieson knows how to write hockey romance and this is a hockey romance with plenty of heart.
Not to mention characters who grow, and with plenty of sweetness, emotion, and soaring highs and lows this was a story I found increasingly hard to put down and one I'd definitely recommend to others.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Merged review:
4.5⭐
It's been ages since I last read a Kelly Jamieson novel. So I jumped at the chance to review an early copy of The O Zone, and I'm so happy I did.
As The O Zone was a delightful read, but then I shouldn't have expected anything less as Ms Jamieson knows how to write hockey romance and this is a hockey romance with plenty of heart.
Not to mention characters who grow, and with plenty of sweetness, emotion, and soaring highs and lows this was a story I found increasingly hard to put down and one I'd definitely recommend to others.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**...more
Last Seen Alive is my first introduction to D.I. Isabel Blood and author Jane Bettany, and what a great introduction it was. As this is a police 4.25⭐
Last Seen Alive is my first introduction to D.I. Isabel Blood and author Jane Bettany, and what a great introduction it was. As this is a police procedural that's not only full of detail but had plenty of twists too.
Furthermore, I really enjoyed the characters, the setting, the pace and the way the story kept me guessing and even though a couple of my guesses were right I still had no clue who the killer was; and as mysteries go this was a really engaging one.
And I'd definitely read more from this series and author in the future. I would also happily recommend Last Seen Alive to others.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Merged review:
4.25⭐
Last Seen Alive is my first introduction to D.I. Isabel Blood and author Jane Bettany, and what a great introduction it was. As this is a police procedural that's not only full of detail but had plenty of twists too.
Furthermore, I really enjoyed the characters, the setting, the pace and the way the story kept me guessing and even though a couple of my guesses were right I still had no clue who the killer was; and as mysteries go this was a really engaging one.
And I'd definitely read more from this series and author in the future. I would also happily recommend Last Seen Alive to others.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**...more
Mine To Hold returns readers to the Southern Wedding Series and the Baker family. For Shelby's story. As she's about to tie the knot. Only on the4.25⭐
Mine To Hold returns readers to the Southern Wedding Series and the Baker family. For Shelby's story. As she's about to tie the knot. Only on the eve of the wedding just as she's relaxing with her sisters. She receives an email from her husband to be in which he declares his love for her bridesmaid Shelia who also happens to be his best mans girlfriend.
So rather than call off the wedding Shelby decides to use the email as her wedding vows giving everyone in the congregation. But especially the groom one hell of a shock. And then she flies off on her would be honeymoon with the best man Ace who also happens to be her best friend.
And as the pair get to spend uninterrupted time together to lick their wounds they start to compare notes and realise they were inevitably meant to be together. But it's one thing on a private island and another thing entirely when they get back home. Especially so soon after the unfortunate wedding day.
And with humour, family feels and plenty of heat. This was a delightful friends to lovers romance. That I devoured in a matter of hours and one I would happily recommend to all.
Merged review:
4.25⭐
Mine To Hold returns readers to the Southern Wedding Series and the Baker family. For Shelby's story. As she's about to tie the knot. Only on the eve of the wedding just as she's relaxing with her sisters. She receives an email from her husband to be in which he declares his love for her bridesmaid Shelia who also happens to be his best mans girlfriend.
So rather than call off the wedding Shelby decides to use the email as her wedding vows giving everyone in the congregation. But especially the groom one hell of a shock. And then she flies off on her would be honeymoon with the best man Ace who also happens to be her best friend.
And as the pair get to spend uninterrupted time together to lick their wounds they start to compare notes and realise they were inevitably meant to be together. But it's one thing on a private island and another thing entirely when they get back home. Especially so soon after the unfortunate wedding day.
And with humour, family feels and plenty of heat. This was a delightful friends to lovers romance. That I devoured in a matter of hours and one I would happily recommend to all....more
Made For Me returns readers to the world of professional hockey. For a story that is equal parts, sexy, sweet and full of heart.
As Chase Grant a 4.25⭐
Made For Me returns readers to the world of professional hockey. For a story that is equal parts, sexy, sweet and full of heart.
As Chase Grant a kind, sexy man bun wearing doctor. Who has spent time working with Doctors Without Borders falls for Social Worker and friend Julia. Who has been around Chase and the Grant/Horton family for years and who's twin sister Jillian is married to Chase's cousin Michael.
But Chase and Julia have never crossed the friendship line. That is until now. When Julia's work implodes in an emotional situation. That sees her arrested for doing her job. Yet, Chase is there to support Julia every step of the way and the pair soon realise they are made for each other.
And with an engaging and at times emotional storyline and lots of great characters. This was a very enjoyable read. That I would happily recommend to others, especially fans of the Something So, This Is, and Only One series.
My thanks to Wildfire Marketing for the opportunity to read an early copy of Made For Me. ...more
DI Gina Harte is back and not 100% herself struggling with her health, a heat wave, and the breakdown of her relationship with Briggs. She's a bit4.5⭐
DI Gina Harte is back and not 100% herself struggling with her health, a heat wave, and the breakdown of her relationship with Briggs. She's a bit of a mess, and her colleagues are starting to notice.
But when single mum Billie is stabbed to death and Gina is confronted with her grieving four-year-old son. She's determined to put all her problems aside and find Billie's killer.
However, the suspects are plenty. As Billie had lots of secrets the biggest being she was working as a prostitute to make ends meet and provide for her son Kayden.
But she isn't the only one with secrets as her sons father Shaun is back on the scene. Then there's her lover Nathan who also happens to be her sister Serena's boyfriend.
Not to mention her three friends Meera, Nadia, and Candice. Who have plenty of secrets of their own. And one of them made sure every parent in the playground knew how Billie was making her money.
Yet, why would any of them really want to kill the vivacous Billie?
That's what Gina can't figure out. Until another friend is targeted and more secrets are revealed. Ones that hit too close to home for an already on edge Gina.
And with plenty of twists and a killer I didn't expect. This was a cracking read. That I enjoyed a lot. And one I would happily recommend to others.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**...more
Melissa Foster is admittedly an author I don't read enough off and in a way it showed in The Wicked Truth. As its packed full of characters, relat4.5⭐
Melissa Foster is admittedly an author I don't read enough off and in a way it showed in The Wicked Truth. As its packed full of characters, relationships and familial connections that I didn't know anything about and that did slightly diminish my enjoyment of what is a very good story.
As The Wicked Truth brings together two characters Tobias and Madigan who's hearts have been battered and bruised and who feel they are better off alone.
But their connection, chemistry and experiences make them the perfect foils for each other. And Ms Foster really knows how to bring the feels. Yet, still make the story engaging, fun and sexy too, and it was definitely sexy!
And with a clearly well-developed ensemble cast of characters. Who are there to offer support and guidance. This was a very enjoyable story. That definitely works if read as part of a series rather than a standalone.
I was kindly provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review...more
Detective Morgan Brookes is back, transferred out of Rydel Falls and with the team still reeling from the shocking events in Silent Angel. It's fa4.5⭐
Detective Morgan Brookes is back, transferred out of Rydel Falls and with the team still reeling from the shocking events in Silent Angel. It's fair to say she and everyone around her is struggling.
But when a call comes in to inform Morgans old boss and boyfriend Detective Sergeant Ben Matthews of a house fire. Morgan jumps at the chance to help out.
Only it turns out there is more to the case than a simple house fire. As three bodies have been found inside, each with a missing limb. One of them a friend of Bens. And the case is made all the more shocking when the limbs are finally discovered.
But who would want to kill this picture perfect family?
That is what Morgan, Ben and the team need to find out and quick. But with little evidence to go on how are they going to find a killer who seems hell bent on vengeance.
And with plenty of twists and a killer I didn't expect. This was a very enjoyable read. That was only really spoilt by the ending. Which semed a little abrupt. But I do love Morgan and can't wait to see what she gets up to next.
I would happily recommend Their Burning Graves to crime fiction fans everywhere.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**...more
Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine are back with a holiday romance. That delivers all the feels. Not to mention a sexy lumberjack who teaches a city boy4.5⭐
Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine are back with a holiday romance. That delivers all the feels. Not to mention a sexy lumberjack who teaches a city boy what Christmas is really all about. And yes, I do mean annoying siblings, sleigh rides and mistletoe kisses.
And for the couple of hours it took to read. I was completely enchanted by the small town of Merrihill. The Noble siblings, Micah, Snoopy and Max.
And I loved how this story and romance played out. Which is why I would happily recommend it to Christmas romance readers everywhere.
I was kindly provided with an advance copy of Once Upon a Sexy Scrooge in exchange for an honest review. ...more
After a slow start Sudden Death became an enthralling police procedural.
That sees protagonist DI Kelly Porter and her ex-Johnny called to the mo4.25⭐
After a slow start Sudden Death became an enthralling police procedural.
That sees protagonist DI Kelly Porter and her ex-Johnny called to the mountain side of Scarfell Pike. After a helicopter crashes killing dozens on the ground who were taking part in a fell race and all but one aboard.
And as Kelly and Johnny rush to the scene. They are faced with utter devastation; and learn the two men aboard the helicopter were the Right Honourable Lord Reilly and a billionaire Tory donor Bartholomew Kennedy-Craig. And as Kelly and her team at Eden House are tasked with finding out what happened and if the crash was accidental or sabotage. The pressure from the media, the victims families, Home Office and Prime Minister mounts.
Then it's revealed the cause of the crash was sabotage.
But who would want to sabotage the helicopter and why were these two men even together?
And by answering those questions. The team learn some dark and disturbing truths and find a killer I wasn't expecting.
And with intriguing characters and a beautiful setting. This is a series I want to read more off, and it's a story I would happily recommend to others.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**...more
Someone to Hold is a beautifully poignant emotional and heartfelt story. That continues where Someone Like You left off.
But this time the focus is on Someone to Hold is a beautifully poignant emotional and heartfelt story. That continues where Someone Like You left off.
But this time the focus is on Iris co-founder of the Wild Widows and mum to the group; and Gage, who joined after the devastating loss of his wife Nat and twin daughters.
And the pair who are best friends find themselves becoming much more. When Iris accidentally on purpose ends up naked in Gage's bed. Although Gage is adamant it's not a relationship.
However, when Iris receives devastating news about the accident that her husband Mike died in and his life whilst away from home, Gage is right there to support her. And quickly sees that relationships aren't so bad. Especially ones with the lovely Iris and her three adorable children.
But then disaster strikes and the pair are left to question whether they're strong enough for their chapter two.
And with humour, situations you can relate too, beautiful characters and lots of emotion. This was a fantastic read, and I loved that we got a little peak at Sam and Nick too. Not to mention that ending!!!
I now can't wait for 2023 and Adrian's story.
I would highly recommend Someone to Hold and Someone Like You to others.
I was kindly provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review...more
Detective Kay Sharp is back and reluctantly reunited with her ex-husband Brian. Who's been accused of murder and wants Kay to help clear his name.
OnlDetective Kay Sharp is back and reluctantly reunited with her ex-husband Brian. Who's been accused of murder and wants Kay to help clear his name.
Only it's not that simple. As the woman he's accused of killing is Kay's ex-best friend Rachel and Brian's current fiancée and Kay doesn't know if she can trust a word out of his mouth.
And things get even worse. When Kay finally learns the truth about Rachel's life, her death and her daughter Holly.
But determined to get answers for Rachel's mum Ciara. Kay puts everything on the line, including her relationship with her partner Elliott. Who has his own investigation to contend with, when a nineteen-year-old girl is reported missing and later found shot and killed at Frozen Falls.
Yet Elliotts investigation soon leads him back to Kay.
And with plenty of twists, shocks and surprises. This was another cracking addition to the Detective Kay Sharp series, and I would definitely recommend it to crime fiction fans everywhere.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**...more
It's a week before Halloween in Black Rock Falls and the town that's known as serial killer central is bracing its selves. Hopefully for a Halloween tIt's a week before Halloween in Black Rock Falls and the town that's known as serial killer central is bracing its selves. Hopefully for a Halloween that doesn't include another killer on the loose.
However, when town ME Shane Wolfe turns up unexpectedly at the house of Sheriff Jenna Alton and her husband Deputy Dave Kane. They fear the worst. As Wolfe has a strange story to tell involving the suspicious death of a woman. Whose own husband a Marine disappeared with his entire team at Halloween in Afghanistan seven years ago.
And when her death is ruled as murder and another woman dies. Whose husband was also in Afghanistan. Kane and Alton realise something very strange is going on; and with the military unable to provide answers about the missing marines the team are left to find them themselves.
Yet, how can a team MIA in Afghanistan be connected to a series of murders in Black Rock Falls? And is it just Halloween that has their loved ones seeing and hearing ghosts?
And with twists galore and a killer I didn't see coming. This was a hauntingly gripping read. That kept me reading late into the night and had me on the edge of my seat.
I would happily recommend Chase Her Shadow and the Detectives Kane and Alton series to all.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**...more
Mine To Love is my first foray into the Southern Weddings series. But in reading this it won't be my last. As this was such a great read.
As self p4.5⭐
Mine To Love is my first foray into the Southern Weddings series. But in reading this it won't be my last. As this was such a great read.
As self proclaimed 'lone wolf' Presley who has vowed never to walk down the aisle or fall in love finds everything changes when one word appears on a test; 'pregnant'.
But it's ok her baby daddy (yes, that's what her delightful sisters have named him) is Bennett. The only guy she has ever been with and the one she's secretly loved forever.
He also happens to be her brothers best friend.
But this family have a track record of getting it wrong the first time round and so Presley won't believe in what she feels.
However, Bennett too has loved Presley forever and will do anything and everything possible to make her see she's his to love.
And with the perfect mix of emotion, feel good moments; family feels, banter and scorching sexy times. Mine To Love was a fantastic read. That I devoured in a matter of hours and now I'm off to read Travis, Clarabella and Shelby's stories. ...more
Vengeance is my first introduction to husband and wife writing team R.C. Bridgestock and protagonist DI Charley Mann and what a fantastic introduc4.5⭐
Vengeance is my first introduction to husband and wife writing team R.C. Bridgestock and protagonist DI Charley Mann and what a fantastic introduction it is.
As this story pulls together a rather gripping murder mystery. But adds a whole other layer in that you get a real insight into how the investigation works. From the moment the murder is called in until those responsible are caught, charged and remanded in prison.
And every step of it was completely riveting. With procedural detail I found utterly fascinating, great characters and twists. As the team headed by the SOI (DI Charley Mann) try to solve the case.
And what an interesting case it was. As a family man is gunned down at his daughters wedding in the rural town of Slaithwaite, in what the team perceive as an act of vengeance.
But against whom? And why?
And with fantastic pacing and such a great storyline. I was hooked throughout, and I'll definitely be reading the three books I've missed out on.
I would also happily recommend this story to all.
My thanks to my friend Sarah (who has a cameo in this story) for the recommendation. ...more
Wanting the Fight returns readers to the Gloves Off Next Generation series for what is the best story to date!!
As Ethan and Peyton who have just witneWanting the Fight returns readers to the Gloves Off Next Generation series for what is the best story to date!!
As Ethan and Peyton who have just witnessed their respective sister and brother marry in Vegas. Have a one-night stand they will never forget! And one that Ethan is desperate to turn into more. But Hollywood starlet Peyton like her mother Gabriella is stubborn, and she's not easily convinced MMA fighter Ethan can withstand the attention she deals with on a daily basis.
But life conspires to bring the pair back together and before long Peyton realises that Ethan could be the man for her. And so a gorgeous romance begins.
However, the threat they and their families and friends face from Nikolai Michelson is far from over and sooner or later he's going to come for them.
But this time they have more to protect than most.
And just as the pair are getting comfortable and enjoying some much needed downtime the games begin. Only someone far more deranged is calling the shots.
And with lives on the line, fantastic pacing, heat and a little suspense. This was a cracking read. That I genuinely devoured in just one morning and it's a story I would enthusiastically recommend to all.
I would also recommend the other books in the Next Generation series. As well as all of the original Gloves Off stories.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review**...more
Meet Holden Moore Quarterback at North Boston University, in his final year he's pretty much a sure thing to get to the NFL. But two things stand 4.5⭐
Meet Holden Moore Quarterback at North Boston University, in his final year he's pretty much a sure thing to get to the NFL. But two things stand in his way:
1. His new coach 2. The coach's daughter
Who he can't take his eyes off. Even though he and the rest of the team have been warned to stay far far away from Julep Lee.
But as she's interning with the rehab team and Holden's about to become a regular visitor. That's not going to be possible. And as the pair spend time together on and off the field. They find they have more in common than either could've ever imagined.
Yet, Julep can't afford to let her dad down again. And if Holden is to make his dream come true and become the next Tom Brady. He needs to listen to coach and keep well away from his precious daughter.
However, the pair can't resist the chemistry between them and are sure they can keep their romance a secret.
But what happens when coach finds out?
And with the ideal amount of angst, sweetness, heat, drama and characters you can relate too. This was an incredibly enjoyable read, and I'm definitely going to be reading more from Kandi Steiner and this group of characters in the future.
I would also unreservedly recommend the Quarterback Sneak to others.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review**...more
Lessons Learned is my first introduction to author Marie James and what an introduction it is.
As this is a powerful, bold, and heavy read. That's4.25⭐
Lessons Learned is my first introduction to author Marie James and what an introduction it is.
As this is a powerful, bold, and heavy read. That's not for the faint-hearted. But it's also addictive, engaging and extremely well-written.
As the two lead characters Lauren and Angel have lived through hell and suffered traumas you couldn't ever imagine.
Which leads them to crave substantial danger and do things 99.99% of people wouldn't and that flows into their sex lives.
Which is explosive, and at times frightening. The detail is that vivid. But it's always consensual and it may have had me wincing at times, but when you understand what these two have been through it does make sense.
And whilst I didn't necessarily enjoy some of those parts, I did enjoy the rest of the story. And I can't deny this author knows how to write romance. Which is completely dark, twisted and utterly captivating and I'd definitely recommend it to others.
But be warned there are some triggers.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC by Wildfire Marketing Solutions in exchange for an honest review**...more
DI Kim Stone is back!! Two months on from her brutal attack. She's declared fit and ready to return to work. But Kim knows how to work the system and DI Kim Stone is back!! Two months on from her brutal attack. She's declared fit and ready to return to work. But Kim knows how to work the system and no one is really sure she's ready least of all Kim.
But with the man who played a big part in her attack left in temporary charge and the team in disarray. Kim has no choice but to step back in, especially when she overhears how DI Burns is referring to their latest case. A case they wouldn't be investigating if it wasn't for her.
And what a harrowing, eye opening case it is. As Hidden Scars delves in to the world of alleged treatments for people who are gay and either don't want to be or whose families can't except it.
And as Kim, Bryant, Penn and Stacey dig and link a series of supposed suicides back to a clinic called Change. They learn some shocking and heartbreaking truths. Which leave them more determined than ever to find the killer and shut the clinic down.
Meanwhile, Stacey is also diligently searching for a missing person. But have they just had enough of life or has something far more sinister happened?
And with fantastic pacing, great humour, and twists you won't see coming. Hidden Scars is a cracking read. That I genuinely couldn't put down and I'd implore anyone who has not yet read the series to pick it up today!
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**...more
Miles and Miles of You is a fun, fast-paced, and easy read.
That grabbed my attention from the very first page. As Lucy fed up with being ignored by hMiles and Miles of You is a fun, fast-paced, and easy read.
That grabbed my attention from the very first page. As Lucy fed up with being ignored by her billionaire boss Miles (who she's been in love with for two years) decides to quit her job and become a travel influencer.
But Miles so lost without Lucy has a plan to get her back. He's going to join Lucy on her maiden trip. Make a bet with her and win. And in doing so Lucy will be back in the office in no time.
However, Lucy is determined to prove Miles wrong and as they travel Route 66 everything changes as the pair get closer.
But what happens when they reach their destination?
And with plenty of travel related escapades, really likable characters and lots of light moments. This was a genuinely engaging and enjoyable read. That I'd happily recommend to others.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review**...more
Cleopatra's Vendetta is an intriguing and action packed tale. That nicely combines an historical event with a more modern-day issue sex trafficki4.25⭐
Cleopatra's Vendetta is an intriguing and action packed tale. That nicely combines an historical event with a more modern-day issue sex trafficking. And it creates a gripping story that takes you on a trip around the globe.
As Timothy Stryker a Special Ops M2 leader is pulled away from a much needed family holiday in Italy. When a number of high-profile dignataries are assassinated. Including a Saudi Crown Prince. Who is gunned down in Jeddah in front of Stryker and his teammate Rey. Meanwhile Strykers wife Angie and daughter Harper are kidnapped in Italy.
Which leads Stryker and his team to hunt down those responsible and do whatever's necessary to get his wife and daughter back. And thanks to team intel Stryker soon learns the group responsible are calling themselves the Sons of Adam and that they are also behind the assassinations with more planned.
And as the team go in search of answers about this group. One name keeps appearing Cleopatra. But what does an ancient queen who died in 30BC have to do with them?
And with plenty of historical detail, action and suspense. Cleopatra's Vendetta was an engaging, enjoyable and fast-paced read. That I honestly enjoyed a lot more than I was expecting too.
I was kindly provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review....more
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