Tag Archives: love

August 21, 2023 · 7:00 am

Gamble of Hearts by Virginia Barlow (Book Review)

If you liked Bridgerton, you’ll love Gamble of Hearts! A regency romance laced with adventure, an arranged marriage, a love triangle, and more!

When a powerful duke arrives to collect his winnings from her brother, Lady Amora Hargrove discovers she is one of them. Following her brother’s arrest, she becomes the duke’s ward and falls for him hard and fast. Problem is, the duke has a violent hatred for gamblers, and she possesses a natural ability. Something he can never discover, or she will lose him forever.
The Duke of Ravencroft exacts revenge for his nephew’s death and gains a ward. Irresistibly drawn to the villain’s sister, he must play and gamble with their hearts or lose everything.

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(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 

 

I don’t typically reach for historical romances, but I’m glad I read Gamble of Hearts by Virginia Barlow. 

Action.

Adventure.

Suspense.

Multiple kidnappings.

Arson.

Secrets. 

Secret identity.

Surprise developments.

Strong heroine. 

Loving hero. 

Multiple villains.

Blackmail. 

All these elements made this a book I could not put down! 

 

Alexander and Amora did not have a meet-cute moment. She was given to Alexander by her brother, Nathan. As the story unfolds, readers will be shocked to discover her despicable brother used her as collateral multiple times. Nathan deserved everything that came to him. His sister, Amora, did not deserve all the evils she encountered at her brother’s hand or the hand of other men. However, she did deserve all the love and loyalty of her true love, the Duke of Ravencroft. 

Amora and Alexander did not meet under ideal situations, but their love, their passion for one another, is something people yearn for. Their relationship as a whole is one that people dream about. Who doesn’t want to find a life partner that is loving, supportive, makes you laugh, and brings you endless joy?

I recommend reading Gamble of Hearts. It has numerous surprising moments that will keep you turning the pages. Sex scenes that will have you fanning yourself or reaching for a cool drink. Sweet and tender moments. And scenes filled with pain that will have you wishing for Amora to finally get her happily ever after. BTW – she does. That’s not really a spoiler; I’m sure you already assumed she would. 

Read the book; I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I did!

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤❤

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Meet the Author

I love being an author. It’s all about where your characters lead you. I start with a general idea. As the story unfolds I type as fast as I can in hopes I keep up with my characters.They have had me jotting on napkins, making notes while I’m waiting in a line, and waking me up in the middle of the night. The hard part is always the ending. My characters live with me and when I reach the end of the story, it is hard to say goodbye.Sometimes I let the story sit for a few days to make sure I’m okay with them leaving home to get published. Kind of like when you kids move out. LOL

I enjoy my grandchildren, and the time I share with them. They make me smile with their antics. I like to quilt, crochet, knit and sew. Cooking and baking are occasional itches I scratch. The rest of the time, they are necessary evils. LOL.

My greatest support comes from my husband. He has been my sounding board for all my stories. My daughters are also a great support to me. I couldn’t do it without my family.

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July 17, 2023 · 7:00 am

Hau’ oli’ La Makuakane Notebook: Aloha wau ia’oe by Aloha Pickles (Book Review)

The Hau’oli’ La Makuakane Notebook is a beautifully designed notebook that celebrates the unique bond between stepfathers and their loved ones. It features a heartfelt message on the interior page, wishing him a Happy Fathers Day and saying “I love you” on the back in the beautiful Hawaiian language of love, Aloha wau ia’oe. The notebook is handmade and features a durable cover that ensures it will be a cherished keepsake for years to come.

Highlights:
This notebook is a handmade paperback and features a beautiful design that celebrates the unique bond between stepfathers and their loved ones. It has lined pages with small illustrations accenting the pages of a Hawaiian Dancer and a Hawaiian Dog both with a bright yellow hibiscus flower. The greetings Aloha and Mahalo are on the top and bottom of each page and the right corner features an image of a Paniolo Cowboy.

Usage:
The Hau’oli’ La Makuakane Notebook is a versatile notebook that can be used for daily writing, journaling, capturing memories, expressing gratitude, and documenting aspirations.

Give him the Hau’oli’ La Makuakane Notebook Let him know you love him in the beautiful Hawaiian language of love, Aloha wau ia’oe.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

“Hau’ oli’ La Makuakane Notebook: Aloha wau ia’oe” is dedicated to fathers, biological or not. It’s filled with (roughly) eighty-lined pages, offering fathers ample opportunity to journal their thoughts and feelings, chronicle their life’s journey, write down their goals and aspirations, or keep miscellaneous notes. Gift givers could also use the pages to write a message to their father, listing how they impacted their lives. Share favorite memories. The touching sentiment will brighten any recipient’s day.

Buyers will discover three images on the writing pages: a Hawaiian dancer surrounded by flowers, a Paniolo cowboy, and a Hawaiian dog sitting next to a bright yellow hibiscus flower. There’s also “aloha” and “mahalo.” at the start and end of each page. This format is the perfect incentive to write a (paper) letter—revive a dying art form.

While I did like the artwork, the notebook could’ve benefited from more images. Hawaii has much to offer in wildlife, plants, flowers, and scenery, and the artist missed the opportunity to make each page or group of pages stand out from the next. To repeat, what was presented was very lovely.

“Hau’ oli’ La Makuakane Notebook: Aloha wau ia’oe” (Happy Father’s Day Notebook: I love you) is a lovely present idea for any holiday or when you want to say “I love you” or show your dad that you appreciate everything they’ve done for you. Its durable cover ensures it will be a cherished keepsake for many years.

If you want a handmade gift for your dad, give him the” Hau’oli’ La Makuakane Notebook.” Express your love using the Hawaiian language: Aloha wau ia’oe. While the book’s intention was explicitly for fathers, anyone can use the lined pages for daily writing, journaling, capturing memories, expressing gratitude, personalized letters, and documenting aspirations.

Check out Pixie Publishing House’s other journals if you like this notebook. You’ll find a gift for every occasion!

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤

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June 23, 2023 · 7:00 am

The Dating Dance by Danielle Nowell (Book Review)

When Sarah Shuster meets Theodore Caddel, she’s certain she’s found the perfect man, although after what happened with Jake Leifhour, she’s hesitant to get involved in a relationship. Sarah has a good job as a dance teacher and a steady life in Grenvale. As their relationship blossoms, Sarah is presented with a once in a lifetime opportunity: a dream job in New York City. The problem? it’s over 2,000 miles away from Grenvale, and Theodore. Sarah is torn between her relationship with Theodore and her desire for career success. She doesn’t want to leave Theodore, but also knows turning down the job would be a huge mistake. As she grapples with this decision, Sarah starts to wonder what truly matters to her and what she’s willing to sacrifice for her own happiness. Will Sarah choose the guy or her career? Or is there a way to have both? Follow Sarah’s journey as she navigates the highs and lows of her relationship, professional ambition and search for fulfillment.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery.  I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

It’s hard to get back into the dating game when someone’s been burnt in a relationship. Fear of a repeat performance is never far from their mind. Sarah’s ex burned her badly eight months ago, so she’s hesitant to date again. Through her best friend’s pestering, Sarah reluctantly decided to join iMatch. Thanks to their algorithm, online dating apps are supposed to take the guesswork out of dating. However, no app is perfect, and Sarah’s first couple of dates were proof of that. 

An old proverb states you must “kiss a lot of frogs to find a prince.” Sarah didn’t technically kiss the toads, but she found her prince anyways. Theo was everything Sarah was looking for in a partner: well-read, sweet, thoughtful, hardworking, and kind. He made her homemade soup when she was sick. He wrote beautiful poetry and made her heart skip a beat by walking into a room. They had chemistry and fun together and seemed like a perfect fit. But, a secret was tearing them apart. 

Sarah, a dance instructor, always dreamt of teaching at the New York City School of American Ballet. With her dream finally within her grasp, she faced a hard decision: choose love or follow her dream. Sarah met a tough decision, the biggest one of her life. She didn’t expect to find love. She never expected to fall in love again. 

Following most romance scripts, this story’s secret led to hurt feelings, leading to a time apart. And in true romance fashion, they realized life apart was unbearable. Readers will be delighted by the sweet, romantic reunion scene. The epilogue was also quite lovely. 

The Dating Dance by Danielle Nowell is a clean and wholesome love story with zero explicit love scenes. It’s roughly 150 pages, a perfect story for any time of year. 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Danielle Nowell currently resides in Orlando with her husband and two dogs; although she’s originally from Miami. When not hanging out at home, she can be found at the theme parks or exploring the city’s food scene. She enjoys the beach and also enjoys traveling and has been to many different countries.
 
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May 8, 2023 · 7:00 am

Mr. Opposite Billionaire Grump by Cameron Michaels (Book Review)

I couldn’t have run into a bigger jerk. And, of course, he’s loaded with cash and attitude. I’m fine…until I run into him again…and again.

My new client has issues, and my job is to figure them out and fix them. She didn’t tell me that her big brother would become my issue…one I’d have to fix.

Whether I like it or not, I’m going to fall for someone whose first words denigrate my profession.

Fine…it seems like I can make it work. Until his past comes back to take him away.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery.  I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

Mr. Opposite Billionaire Grump is a romantic comedy you can’t help falling in love with and won’t want to see end. 

Natalia and Declan each made the mother of all bad first impressions. In Declan’s defense, he didn’t know Natalia was his sister’s therapist when he said disparaging comments about her profession. She didn’t know he was her next patient’s brother when they butted heads in the elevator. Insults flew, but we all know what that means in a rom-com. Sparks! 

Natalia was drawn to Declan, and it had nothing to do with the size of his bank account. She saw the man behind the fortune. He was kind not only to his baby sister Jillian but also to his employees as well. He had known them since he was a teen, and many current employees had a hand in raising him. He treated them like family because they were. 

Declan was confused about his reaction to the fiery therapist. He couldn’t stop thinking about her and found himself driving past her work, hoping he would catch a glimpse of her. It was one such drive-by that changed their dynamic forever. 

Declan and Natalia found reasons to spend time together. They also found reasons to drift apart. As with any rom-com, there is a pivotal moment when a misunderstanding causes the couple to take a break to think things through. Since Natalia was a therapist, I found it ironic how communication issues caused them to spend weeks apart. 

As you’d expectedly, there was the ah-ha moment when the two lovebirds realized they loved each other and rushed into each other’s arms. Natalia and Declan didn’t have the perfect start, but their ending (scene) was quite sweet. 

As much as I loved this novella, several noticeable editing mistakes occurred. Most readers will overlook the indention errors, but using the wrong character name in dialogue won’t be ignored as easily. It happened once, but reviewers note the small things when critiquing and calculating a score. 

If Mr. Opposite Billionaire Grump were longer, I would’ve liked to see the writer dive more into Declan and Natalia’s family history. The author gave us a glimpse into their separate lives but quickly moved on. Too quickly. 

Cameron Michaels left me wanting more, and that’s the sign of a good story. I look forward to reading more of their books. 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤1/2

Book Funnel Link

 

 

Meet the Author 

As a romance author, I am passionate about crafting stories that capture the intricacies of love and human connection. My writing is characterized by vivid descriptions of emotions and settings, dynamic characters, and captivating plotlines that keep readers engaged from start to finish.

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April 22, 2023 · 7:00 am

Gladiator (The Arena Book 1) by Casey Lea (Book Review)

One Arena. One Love. ONE DAY.

Happy-ever-after is never guaranteed but that’s the gladiator’s mission. It wasn’t his plan to fight to the death, but plans change. When Harvesters steal his wife, he tracks them down. The hunt takes all of his money and most of his self-control, but she’s worth it. He joins her as a slave forced to fight for his life without hesitation.

His wife is a deadly warrior, so it’s too bad she doesn’t know him. Memory stripped and struggling to survive she has no interest in the fool claiming to be her husband. He’s just another target standing between her and freedom, but not for long. She’ll take down anything and anyone in her way.

Can the gladiator live long enough to win his wife’s love? Unlikely. It’s the end of the season and the final day of fighting. They’re about to enter the Carnival of Death which leaves only a single survivor.

One of them must die.

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(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 

 

Imagine waking up and not knowing who you are, what species you are, where you are, or how you got there. That’s how Gladiator (The Arena Book 1) by Casey Lea begins. Haze’s com (nicknamed Connie) informs him that he is on the slave-trading planet Vertigo. It claims he’s seeking work in the arena as a gladiator. Haze is confused. Nothing makes sense. 

Slowly, snippets of who he is resurface and, with it, a name. Silk is his wife, and he’s on a mission to find her. The path takes him to the Carnival of Death, a battle where many walk in, but only one will leave…alive. 

Haze will do anything, sacrifice anything to ensure Silk makes it to the center of the area (the maze) and claim the prize, the knife. However, there are several obstacles in Haze’s way. For one: the other contestants vary in size and species from an enormous dragon to a scrawny guy. Two, he has to face non-contestants who love to snack on the fighters: eels and wolves. Thirdly, there’s Umpyre, the guard of law, who is a stickler for following the rules he made up. And finally, the most challenging obstacle of all, Haze’s wife, Silk, doesn’t remember her hubby. 

The cards are stacked against Haze, but he is a tenacious S.O.B. He will battle creatures, contestants, and even his wife’s stubbornness. I won’t disclose what Haze is, but he’s not your typical lawyer. He puts fear in many, and you’ll understand why once you see him lose control. 

Many shall enter. Only one is supposed to win. The road to victory was hard. The fights were intense, bloody, and brilliantly written. 

There were several shocking developments as the day came to a close. I did not see the twists coming. I was left stunned, like the characters in the book. 

Who survives 24 hours of hell, aka the maze cut out of stone? That question will only be answered by reading the book. So read it! 

The story did end with a set-up for a sequel. I can’t wait to read it as well!

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤1/2

Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Authors

Casey Lea is the pen name for a mother and daughter creative duo, dedicated to sharing their passion for all things sci-fi and fantastical.

A doting grandmother with too much time on her hands took the opportunity to put pen to paper.  Her older daughter kindly placed the resulting scribblings in one of those new-fangled so-called “computing machines” and a writing partnership was born.

The Lea (pronounced Lee) half of Casey Lea now spends her days wrestling with words and her memory while reading aloud to any cat careless enough to settle nearby. Daughter Casey edits the results while wrangling her adorable offspring.

After a decade on the rollercoaster ride of indie publishing their shared passion for epic love and grand adventure, spiced with advanced tech and ancient magic, remains undimmed.

 

You can find us at:

Sci-fi Fantasy Authors / Caseyleabooks.com
Casey Lea | Facebook
 Casey Lea (@CaseyLeaBooks) / Twitter

 

 

 

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