Tag Archives: romance

September 9, 2016 · 5:00 am

A Witch’s Journey by Tena Stetler (Book Review)

June 15, 2016
  
Pepper McKay comes from a long line of powerful witches. Unfortunately, magic brings her nothing but trouble. She learned the love of wildlife rescue and rehab from her Aunt Ashling. After graduating from college, Pepper works for Salem Wildlife Sanctuary and lives from paycheck to paycheck until she inherits the McKay property in Lobster Cove. With the family land and resources, she dares to dream of starting her own wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center.

Lathen Quartz, a former Navy SEAL turned handyman maintains the enchanted McKay property for the McKay estate. But someone is trying to steal the McKay magic. Lathen offers to help Pepper achieve her life-long dream of building a wildlife center. During the long hours spent together on the project, their mutual attraction can’t be denied. But each harbors a deep, dark secret. Will they overcome their demons and give love a chance?


 
 
Pepper hopped out of the truck and took a deep breath. The ocean breeze brought a mixed scent of brine, sand, sun and kelp. Seabirds whistled and screeched through the air diving into the white crested waves, proudly emerging with dinner. Turning her attention to the land, she noticed beyond the barn, the pond was still there, even a bit bigger than she remembered. Caught up in the smells, sights, and sounds, she didn’t hear someone approach.
 
“Ms. McKay?”
 
“Sssshit,” she yelped and whirled around to see a muscular man, well over six feet, with surfer blond hair nearly to his shoulders, tousled by the ocean breeze. Rounding the corner of the cabin, he waved at her as he approached walking with a slight limp. Deeply tanned, he appeared to spend a lot of time outdoors.
 
“I’m Lathen Quartz. Glad you made it before dark. The road up here can be treacherous after dark if you don’t know where you’re going.  I finished up the enclosed aviary and was getting ready to leave. But now that you’re here, I’d be happy to show you around. Help you get settled.”
 
“Pepper McKay, call me Pepper.” Extending her hand towards him, she met his gaze. His large aquamarine eyes were mesmerizing, set above the high cheekbones, full lips and a butterscotch five o’clock shadow. She gave her head a shake. “Wait. You built an aviary?”
 
He shook her hand and smiled, shoving his hands in the pockets of his jeans and rocking back on his heels.
 
 
 
(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 
 
For a story featuring witches and werewolves, I expected more shifting and magical moments. A ghostly aunt did appear occasionally and there were small uses of magic (lighting a fire or cleaning a stovetop) but, for the most part, magic really came into play in the last chapter. This is also where everything is explained (clarified), too. 
 
It’s great Tena left no loose ends; however,  I think she should’ve utilized Benjamin’s dark side more. In doing so, I believe the book would’ve lived up it’s title and scored much higher. 
 
Besides the lack of witchery, a few other things nagged at me and caused me to score it low. 
 
1.) Werewolves have a great sense of smell yet Kolby didn’t scent his brother, Lathen, and was startled when Lathen placed a hand on his shoulder. He should’ve smelt him, knew his scent anywhere. I couldn’t get past it and saw Kolby more as an ordinary man than a werewolf. 
2.) Tena seemed more interested in detailing what they were eating, had ate, or discussing food in general. I swear it was starting to feel more like a cooking show than a supernatural book.
3.) With Kate’s (waitress) infatuation with Lathen and her apparent dislike of Pepper, I assumed we’d see some Fatal Attraction craziness. I assumed wrong. 
4.) Tena had Lathen wondering “Do I have kink?” after a waitress mentioned the BDSM club (Red Club). I thought she might be leading up to something down the line, but nope. Now looking back, the namedrop seems pointless. 
 
High points:
Chapter 21 and 23 are worth reading. 
If I liked cold temps, I would visit Alaska because it sounds breath-taking. 
Also, this story had me wondering what I would do if a deceased relative left me a load of cash like Aunt Ashling did for Pepper. 
 
 
Heart Rating System – 1 (lowest) and 5
(highest) 
Score: ❤❤
 
 
 
 
 
Tena Stetler is a paranormal romance and cozy mystery author with an over-active imagination.  She wrote her first vampire romance as a tween, to the chagrin of her mother and the delight of her friends. With the Rocky Mountains outside her window, Tena sits at her computer surrounded by a wide array of paranormal creatures telling her their tales. Colorado is her home; shared with her husband of many moons, a brilliant Chow Chow, a spoiled parrot and a forty-year-old box turtle.  Any winter evening, you can find her curled up in front of a crackling fire with a good book, a mug of hot chocolate and a big bowl of popcorn. 

 

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September 5, 2016 · 5:00 am

Seize the Flame by Lynda J. Cox (Book Review)

 

Jessica Depre’s life is in tatters. She’s on the run, thanks to her abusive husband Robert, who needs to silence her about his criminal escapades and the part he forced her to play in them. When bounty hunter Drake Adams walks into the boarding house where she works, Jessica slips away into the night. Her only hope of surviving and protecting those she loves from her husband’s rage is to vanish forever.

Unable to accept that the only woman he ever loved left him standing at the altar and married another, Drake Adams has given up a good law practice in the Wyoming Territory. If he’s not hunting down bounties, he’s pursuing the bottom of a bottle of bourbon. When Drake learns his former fiancée, Jessica Majors-Depre, has a price on her head, he decides he will collect the reward.

Can the bounty hunter and the bank robber ignite a future from the ashes of their past when they are trapped by a blizzard in a mountain shack or will playing with fire burn them both?


 

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

Treachery, dirty rotten scoundrels, jealousy, lost loves reunited, and an unfortunate encounter with a bear trap….. Seize the Flame had everything you’d want in a western romance book and more. 
 
Two most notable sections of the book (for me): 
 
1.) Everything involving the bear trap. Lynda wrote the scenes so well, so vividly, the reader can almost feel Drake’s pain, hear his screams, and see the determination in Jessica’s eyes to not let him down.  She faced weather, wolves and her abusive husband, all in the name to save Drake; the man she’ll truly love forever. 
 
2.) Stud poker scene. Jessica and Drake had no money so they improvised in a most fun and sensual manner. Winner of each hand kisses the loser, anywhere, and the loser is forbidden to touch while he/she is receiving the kisses. Yes, there were absolutely no losers in this game. The only thing lost was articles of clothing. Mmm! 😉
 
Now for the ending (the epilogue), based off the prologue I didn’t expect it to end as it did. Maybe you won’t either. Only way to know for sure is to buy the book. 🙂
 
 
Heart Rating System – 1 (lowest) and 5
(highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤
 

 
 

Lynda J. Cox will tell anyone who will listen that she was born at least one hundred and fifty years too late, and most definitely in the wrong part of the country. Her heart has always belonged to cowboys, the wide open spaces, horses, and Lassie. She grew up on a steady diet of cowboy movies, syndicated Westerns, and Lassie.


All of those influences play a role in her life now. She writes western historical romance and raises and shows collies. She holds a master’s degree in English with a concentration in creative writing from Indiana State University after earning her BA from the same university as a non-traditional student. (Think being old enough to be mom to 90% of the students in her freshman cadre.)

She’s kept busy with two spoiled rotten house cats, a 30 plus year old Arabian gelding who has been nicknamed “Lazarus” for his ability in the later years of his life to escape death, and quite a few champion collies.

When she isn’t writing, she can be found on the road, travelling to the next dog show. She loves to chat about books, the writing life, and the insanity which is called a “dog show” and can be reached through her Facebook page at Lynda J. Cox. (https://www.facebook.com/lyndajcox)
 

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September 3, 2016 · 5:00 am

A Leap of Faith by Nell Castle (Book Review)

 
Desperate times call for desperate measures. 
 

At her core, merchandising maven Sophia Anton is an old-fashioned girl. To start a family by age 30, she’ll do what’s needed to make sparks fly with an old friend—including a crash diet. But when Sophia meets Jackson Thomas, the handsome new minister in town, she quickly finds she’s playing with fire. Sophia’s new look is working like a charm to snag the man of her dreams, so why is it Jackson’s face she sees when she closes her eyes?

Jackson, whose troubled past has led him to adopt a life of celibacy, never expects to feel hot under the collar for a woman of his own parish. How can Jackson dream of a future with Sophia after he’s shut the door on love?

 
 

(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 
 
This book is a prime example illustrating how imperfect humans are. 
 
In “A Leap of Faith”, Sophia attempted  to become the perfect woman for Christopher by losing an unhealthy amount of weight by basically eating like a baby bird. Why? I didn’t see his appeal. He was a man whose needs came first. I would say ‘love is blind’ but I don’t think she truly loved him and he never loved her.
 
I understand her desire to become a mother but haven’t we all learned a marriage is doomed to fail without love and why even consider bringing a child into that situation. 
 
As for Pastor Jackson, he showed an imperfection by lying when he said, “Actually, I’ve got my eye on a couple women.” He also broke the tenth commandment, Thou Shall Not Covet.  
 
Even though there were a few things I didn’t particularly love about A Leap of Faith, there were many areas I did enjoy very much. 
 
1.) Franny and Sam: They were married 50 years before he passed away and anyone could see, feel the love they had for one another. 
2.) Jackson’s lobster picnic idea for Franny and Sam was extremely sweet and romantic. He went above and beyond the duties of a minister. 
3.) This quote: “If we can send a man to the moon, how can we still let kids go to bed hungry?” I couldn’t agree more and that’s why I believe we all should do our part to make sure no one has to wonder if they are eating today. 
 
Nell, I can tell by your book you are a key member of your community and I’m sure they appreciate everything you do and the time you devote to others. 
 
And I appreciate you writing A Leap of Faith —- a book less about romance (for me) and more about helping out your fellow ‘man’ and PAYING IT FORWARD. 
 
Heart Rating System – 1 (lowest) and 5
(highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤
 
 
 
 
 
 

Nell Castle grew up in western Pennsylvania and graduated from Temple University in Philadelphia. Since then, she’s lived in Key West and Anchorage, Virginia Beach and Sarasota. She moved back to northeastern Ohio to raise her kids closer to the family homestead but looks forward to moving to a gentler climate after her youngest graduates. Until then, she revisits white powder beaches and craggy mountain tops only in her writing. She’s submitted a new manuscript to her publisher, The Wild Rose Press, and is currently at work on a novella.

WordPress / Amazon Author Page / The Wild Rose Press

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August 30, 2016 · 5:00 am

Summer Lovin’: A Wounded Hearts Novella by Jacquie Biggar (Book Review)

#5 Wounded Hearts Series
 

Mitch Taylor and Rebecca Sorenson share a secret.

Rebecca’s job as secretary of Cascade Elementary, the same school she attended as a child, is rewarding. She has a great group of friends, many of whom are married now. And if sometimes she wished it were her up there in that sparkling white dress…

Except, wait—she did get to wear bridal white. Granted, it was a slinky party dress and the justice of the peace was Elvis in a gold lame jacket, but still, the deed was done.

She’d tied the knot.

Mitch Taylor doesn’t do regrets. It would be a waste of energy bemoaning the mistakes he’d made in his life. The end of his promising football career taught him nothing in life was a guarantee.

Like love.

What were the chances two people from the same po-dunk town in Washington would end up together in a nightclub in Las Vegas? A few too many drinks later, a hasty ceremony performed by the king of rock ‘n’ roll, and they’d been hitched. The night that followed lived on in his dreams, but when he’d woken the next morning she was gone.

Can these two mismatched lovers find a way past their mistakes, or will they keep their lonely hearts forever guarded?


 
(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 
 
When Jacquie requested this review, she didn’t alert me to the fact this was story #5 in a series. At various times, you could tell this wasn’t the first book in the Wounded Heart series. It was apparent I was missing the backstory of several relationships — Jack and Mitch, Mitch and Becca, Jack and Becca, and the mysterious April. 
 
Let me state, I did find much enjoyment in this story but I do think reading the previous ones will make all the difference in understanding the tension between certain characters. Why they are behaving in such manners. 
 
As for the plot centering around Tommy and Jasper, two little kids, being mistreated by their uncle: I despise anyone who hurts a child, in any way. More than one person stepped up to help these two boys out and that’s what we, as a whole, should do if we encounter a situation like this. 
 
Jacquie, I applaud your message to always look out and help those in need. 
 
 
Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤1/2
 
GET YOUR COPY NOW AT AMAZON!! 
View it on Goodreads!!
 
 
(click on the titles to be directed to Amazon.com)
 
Tidal Falls – #1 Wounded Hearts
The Rebel’s Redemption – #2 Wounded Hearts
Twilight’s Encore – #3 Wounded Hearts
The Sheriff Meets His Match – #4 Wounded Hearts
Summer Lovin’ – #5 Wounded Hearts
 
 

 

 

Jacquie writes Romantic Suspense with tough, alpha males who know what they want, until they’re gob-smacked by heroines who are strong, contemporary women willing to show them that what they really need is love.
She has been blessed with a long, happy marriage and enjoys writing romance novels that end with happy-ever-afters.
Jacquie lives in paradise along the west coast of Canada with her family and loves reading, writing, and flower gardening. She swears she can’t function without coffee, preferably at the beach with her sweetheart. 🙂
 
Amazon | Website | Facebook | Newsletter
Twitter | Pinterest | GoodReads | Bookbub

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August 28, 2016 · 5:00 am

Claimed by Andrea R. Cooper (Book Showcase)

 
 
Intern Renee Maxwell has a chance at her dream job as assistant to a renowned archaeologist in exotic Turkey. Things get a little weird when she finds a unique crystal and starts hallucinating crazy yet sexy things. Her once staid boss now looks like a gorgeous demi-god and underwear model combined. Her feminist ideals are challenged with each seductive look and bit of banter he gives her, but she’s not falling for his charm.  Damon Cubins never met a woman his Incubus powers couldn’t seduce…until now. If he doesn’t find an ancient crystal, he’ll turn into a full-fledged demon. When his new Intern Renee arrives on site, wearing the exact necklace he needs to save his existence, he thinks he’s got it made until he discovers a curse is keeping him from claiming what’s his. He doesn’t want to harm the woman who has enraptured his heart, but Damon isn’t the only dark creature seeking the crystal’s powers.  Winning Renee’s love to release the curse becomes the only cure to save her life.
 
Purchase Links: 
 
 
 



 
 
After he set her on the rocks, she scrambled away from the water’s edge in her wet bra and panties.
 
“Don’t forget your promise,” he teased, but he couldn’t help it. Any longer staring at the blush on her cheeks and chest and he’d forget his vow and claim her. Even her erect nipples strained against her wet lace bra made him dig his nails into his palms.
 
She huffed and snatched up her towel. Thankfully, it reached just below her butt, leaving her long legs exposed for his admiration. Then she flipped her curly hair over her shoulder, batting her eyelashes at him.
 
“I would never give you the satisfaction.”
 
“Of which?” He cocked his head to the side and beamed. “Drowning or bathing?”
 
“Both.” She tucked the corner of towel between her breasts, locking the rest of it around her body, and then snatched up her canteen.
 
“Uh, thank you for saving me.” She shivered, and he doubted it was merely from cold and wet. “Please don’t tell the others, it’s embarrassing.”
 
At his nod, she breathed out a sigh. She looked as if she anticipated him to haul her back into the water for another lesson. Inching closer to the shore, her gaze never left his.
 
Her movements reminded him of abused animals. He speculated most people, who couldn’t swim, would want to learn unless they experienced drowning in the past. Could that have happened to her?
 
There was more to this situation than her usual stubbornness. Vulnerability even. As she leaned forward to finish filling her canteen, her ample bosom peeked out. His lust twisted to the sounds she would make when he touched and kissed her nipples until they pebbled.
 
Suddenly, she jerked up, spilling some of the water. “Did you get a good enough view?”
 
He opened his mouth, but no words came out.
 
Without waiting for his reply, she stormed away.
 
Damon flopped onto the water letting his body float. His mind drifted to images of making love to Renee in the water. After he helped her over her phobia, somehow. Hmm, he could kiss her down there while she treaded water.
 
Nah, she’d never go for it. This is a business trip. No time for sleeping with the staff, no matter how sexy when arguing with him.

 
 
 
Purchase Links: 
 Kobo / iTunes

 

 

Andrea has always created characters and stories. But it wasn’t until she was in her late twenties that she started writing novels.

What happened that ignited the writing flame in her fingers? Divorced, and disillusioned by love songs and stories. They exaggerate. She thought. Love and Romance are not like that in the real world. Then she met her husband and realized, yes love and romance are exactly like the songs and stories say. She is now a happy wife, and a mom to three kids (two boys and a girl).

Andrea writes paranormal and historical romance. When not writing or reading, one may find Andrea dancing in Zumba.

She believes in the power of change and counting each moment as a blessing. But most importantly, she believes in love.

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