Category Archives: 2nd Chance

2nd Chance, Part of a Series, Writers on the River Attending Author, YA

#wotr #attendingauthor #seriesstarter Reclaimed Hearts (Hidden Hearts 1) by Danielle Keil

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Welcome to Covington Cove Island… where timeless charm and secrets intertwine, and every wave whispers a tale of hidden hearts and summer dreams.

Marlowe Mitchell’s day is off to a rough start. Not only have all her friends and family forgotten her birthday, but Eleanor Covington, a sort of grandmotherly figure to Marlowe, passes away. Worst of all, she crashes her bike into the most popular guy on Covington Cove Island.

It seems her summer is destined to be terrible, until her ex-boyfriend’s parents ask her to house sit. Marlowe can’t turn down the money they’re offering, even if it means being in a house that holds such painful memories.

Things get worse when her ex-boyfriend, Reid, shows up unexpectedly a few days later, acting like he hadn’t shattered her heart the summer before.

While Marlowe is dealing with the emotions that come with living with the ex she’s still in love with, she gets a mysterious message from the late Eleanor. A clue, leading to a scavenger hunt that sends her all across the island.

Marlowe wants to protect her heart, but she’s forced to confront her unresolved feelings for Reid when he insists on helping her solve the clues.

Will Eleanor’s riddles lead Marlowe to a reward worth more than she ever imagined

And can Marlowe and Reid once again reclaim the love once held in their hearts?

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210628317-reclaimed-hearts

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Reclaimed-Hearts-second-proximity-romance-ebook/dp/B0CW1GLVKW/ref=sr_1_6?crid=3DHPJX1R19IYH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.d37oRl5emRxKFLvRqalW39KY8QAdmTfV31W5hreovlI5ys7OZ48feOY0V7dfhIQWCERafCWlTEYPtgnJz7a5qi3lvxXQyU2t0nVv_XW24RqC0Is14UyWKMtsl1o_W4vbWwcsbDWjT7dd_hEAPw9nFkVt8tOszdHQ5xsP_l2z8SvjIpGxaIqxtUUlbtCayErH6T7MXLj_ZN20FdIO9OD1fUml7XyWnyK9YUo-jShX3EA.zrjgz5-xEYUV-TPCK2y-Llv8bEKQWyRt5tWIaqa7X-8&dib_tag=se&keywords=danielle+keil&qid=1745331844&sprefix=%2Caps%2C413&sr=8-6

Review by Twinsie Dee

i was given this book by the author here is my honest review

Marlowe a local year-round resident of Covington Cove, she loves living on the Cove with her grandmum. Last summer she found love and heartbreak and now she just wanted to survive the summer, without running into her ex, well she ran into someone else who thankfully wasn’t her ex, but one of the most popular guys on the Cove. Marlowe also got a message from one of Covington’s original members after she pasted, so now she’s got to figure out the clues while working her normal jobs, dealing with the boys in her life and their egos, housesitting for her ex’s parents, on top of everything else. it’s about to be a crazier summer then normal will Marlowe be able to survive or just break down with everything that’s bound to happen to her.

Danielle Keil grew up and spent the majority of her life in the Chicagoland area. A recent transplant, she is enjoying the Mississippi life, especially the pool in her backyard.
Danielle is happily married for over 10 years, and has two young children, a daughter and a son, who are exact replicas of her and her husband.

Danielle’s love language is gifts, her Ennegram is a 9w1, and she loves everything purple.
The way to her heart is through coffee, chocolate and tacos (extra guac).

2nd Chance, Contemp. Romance, Review, Romantic Suspense

#Review – Defending Jagger (Search & Seek Book 1) by Amanda Mackey

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Jagger Reed has a secret that could destroy lives…

And one life that could be destroyed is his disabled brother’s. Jagger is in jail for a crime he didn’t commit, and believes it’s a small price to pay to protect his family.

Rosalind McAllister is the newest creative writing teacher at Arizona State Prison…

Rose is determined to prove herself to her criminal students and not let them break her—like they did the last teacher. But when she meets Jagger Reed, she immediately knows the line between student and teacher could be easily blurred. Tall, intimidating, and way too handsome to be incarcerated, she vows to keep him at a distance.

A creative writing assignment turns into the discovery of Jagger’s innocence…

When Rose reads Jagger’s creative writing piece, she’s both astounded and impressed. His written words call to her, providing a window into his private world. But as the assignment continues, she discovers facts about Jagger’s conviction that change everything.

Determined to piece together clues that leap out from the pages, she finds much more than an articulate prisoner.

How can she save a man who doesn’t want to be saved? And can she stop her heart from getting involved while…

Defending Jagger?

Goodreads

Amazon

Review by Twinsie Kelly

Being honest here, I have a love/hate relationship with this story. First, I have to tell you that I did purchase and read the second book. Right out of the gate, I was a tad turned off by Rose and some of her personality toward working at the prison. She is young and naïve, and I almost disliked her right away. I was intrigued by Jagger, and you know he didn’t do the crime, but he is quite a bit of a pain. Anyhow, these two meet in the Creative Writing class and almost immediately are drawn toward each other. The relationship between these two moves incredibly fast. Some of which seems quite unreal, especially since this is happening in prison. But, as I say this, the story is unraveling and keeping my attention quite well, even though I am a smidge irritated at some of what is happening.

The story with Rose and Jagger just proves that it doesn’t matter which side of the tracks you grew up on, sometimes you just need a little trust and a little help (sometimes from the most unexpected places) to make it out on top. Again, even though I had a love/hate relationship with Defending Jagger, I am thoroughly intrigued with finding out what happens to Dallas because, whoa! I did NOT see that coming!

Amanda Mackey profile image

Amanda Mackey was born in New Zealand and moved to Australia when she was 12 years old with her family, where she has lived ever since. She has loved books since an early age and is an avid reader. This has helped lay the foundation for her writing. She’s published 14 novels to date with plenty more on the way. An author with Limitless Publishing, she loves to spend time with family when she’s not writing or reading.

Amanda hopes to make writing her full time career and travel in the near future.

2nd Chance, Part of a Series, Writers on the River Attending Author, YA

#wotr #attendingauthor #partofaseries Dear Quinn (Love Notes Season 2) by Danielle Keil

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Everyone at Ryder High knows what it means to have a teal envelope taped to their locker on the first day of the month.

Quinn Maguire has her sights set on one thing, and one thing only: softball.

After a disaster last season left her injured, she’s determined to come back better than ever and prove herself.

Her plans are slightly altered when she gets a teal envelope on her locker. She won’t let it distract her from her plans, though. If it does, she’ll quit the secret admirer game before she loses softball.

But when her admirer sends her on a chase across town to find geocaches, she’s confused. None of the clues make sense to her.

And days before her first game, she finds herself back where she was last year—on the bench.

Now Quinn needs to figure out what is actually most important to her– softball or the people in her life who love her?

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/228588700-dear-quinn

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Dear-Quinn-Love-Notes-Season-ebook/dp/B0DYXQKHRW/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=3TNPD9E13X7KZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.9hvHGcXRO_Y3neeaDl3a7NrgY5ocGprGu0IGy7OfReTYCgciptWCNJ264svVL0E5wIcfUcsamCCHuRqT6O6TwrFCqck70A16DDSnIOlofyGPyq_M52sNeR32hkCxzoWk0iuU7V5OS4-NPCheYVlPCTODGuiqDNuE1-oJ_ZjIALf9G-WbMwLack_xtrVoPKLjbe_pV5ecXKNzFZwzxfI6RqyiYqp2BjbZh_Kr8DGJSkY.HI_7CZdsuhWn3DJ2Tdp3c97iw4gC2RpaIYOhecnhO2M&dib_tag=se&keywords=danielle+keil&qid=1743081730&sprefix=danielle+keil%2Caps%2C191&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1

Review by Twinsie Dee

i bought this book here is my honest review

Quinn has one thing on her mind at all times softball she eats, sleeps and breathes the game 24/7, but she gets thrown for a loop when she gets the famous teal envelope right at the beginning of softball season. but she couldn’t turn down the challenge so with school, practice, gym time and extra time at the batting cages, she now had to find out clues to who this mystery guy could be. thankfully the guy understood that softball was first, so he was making it fun and semi easy for Quinn to get clues around her schedule Geocaching was the name of the game and its going to be a wild ride. Will Quinn be able to find clues while focusing on the game she loves or will she be forced to quit the game and accept defeat.

Danielle Keil grew up and spent the majority of her life in the Chicagoland area. A recent transplant, she is enjoying the Mississippi life, especially the pool in her backyard.
Danielle is happily married for over 10 years, and has two young children, a daughter and a son, who are exact replicas of her and her husband.

Danielle’s love language is gifts, her Ennegram is a 9w1, and she loves everything purple.
The way to her heart is through coffee, chocolate and tacos (extra guac).

2nd Chance, Cowboys, Single Parent

#WOTR25 #ReleaseDay #Cowboy #2ndChance #SingleParent – Something More, The Westbrook Sisters book 1 by H. D’Agostino

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As the oldest of five girls, I always knew I’d take over the family farm one day. My father started teaching me everything as soon as I was old enough to help. At seventeen, I fell madly in love with Hank Thompson. He was older, and everything I was always told to stay away from. We made plans to be together forever, until my father found out.

He wanted more for me and forced me to choose between college and the family legacy, or Hank. I left without even so much as a goodbye, destroying everything we had together, and breaking both our hearts.

When I decided to move back home, I didn’t expect him to still be there, but he was… and now I have to see if he’ll forgive me, and maybe, just maybe I can find something more.

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Review by Twinsie Angie

Something More, The Westbrook Sisters book 1 by H. D’Agostino

I was given this book by the author for an honest review.

I was super excited to see this book was about older characters.  I feel I can relate to them over younger teens/early 20 somethings.  Plus who doesn’t love a 2nd chance with older characters??

Codie and Hank were such a great read.  I loved this story of being first loves.  I was so invested in the “why didn’t it work” in the beginning of the story since it was clear they had such love for each other.

This was a great coming home to your family story when you need them to support you through hard times.  Codie and Hank go through so much in the story and to learn why they were split up was heart breaking but in some ways you understand.

Seeing Hank do all he can to show Codie the man he is now and the man he can be for her son was so heartwarming.  I loved all the scenes with them together.  The swimming scene was probably my favorite.

I loved the sisters and what is happening to them.  I can’t wait to see what drama they have in store for us.  But seeing Codie and Hank get that HEA was so fulfilling for me.

Heather D’Agostino is an avid reader turned Bestselling Author of the Contemporary Romance Series The Broken Series, The Shattered Series, The Second Chances Series, The Cook Brothers Series, and Romantic Suspense series The Witness Series.

She attended the University of North Carolina at Charlotte where she received a Bachelor’s of Arts in Elementary Education with a minor in Mathematics.

She currently lives in Central New York with her husband, two children, two dogs, and three cats. When she’s not writing she can usually be found at the dance studio, soccer field, or one of the many other places that she plays ‘Supermom’.

You can follow her here:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/H.DAgostino.Author

Twitter: @hdagostino001

Website: http://hdagostinobooks.weebly.com

Reader Group/ Street Team on Facebook:
Heather’s Hotties: https://www.facebook.com/groups/87786…

2nd Chance, Part of a Series, short story, Standalone, Writers on the River Attending Author, YA

#wotr #attendingauthor #YA Dear Phoebe ( Love Notes Season2 book1) by Danielle Keil

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Everyone at Ryder High knows what it means to have a teal envelope taped to their locker on the first day of the month.

The envelope is part of a tradition called the Secret Admirers, something the students go crazy for.

After tragedy struck, no one thought there would be an admirer this month.

However, a little late, a teal envelope shows up on Phoebe Calloway’s locker.

And with it, an ongoing playlist to use as clues toward the admirer’s identity.

It’s music to Phoebe’s ears—especially since music is her biggest passion. But she soon finds out it’s not the melody that’s important in the songs her admirer chose.

It’s the lyrics.

As the songs keep coming, she’s close to figuring out who he is—but is she prepared for the actual reveal?

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/223952665-dear-phoebe

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Dear-Phoebe-Love-Notes-Season-ebook/dp/B0DTY5X32M/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=R7WT5KHKMNHZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.02EdpRYSxjCjS2j4EaUG4O2wF3zsUrWTTsz_Dm_vNYLY6Y9uRzBn9KLUp4Oqc2zppJlejfEMQpJpQsC2wqRI-Z00OZY6t_0BGY-aa9zL_oXq3oaaKSCkZHW9FEESBuLcfmSm88Igsnp_BmYLKv7l_aVWC4df5Pt1hYWXL6rh71fEJc19ClxMU4Lvfw0KPpnAW2_21HGZV6SwwVWTda8zhQyg2sy1H0C6C2kdtJrEs58.RRuI6WPBZk4h0tnXr4h4pGNEARMfVyOYgMpRBUhF9nE&dib_tag=se&keywords=danielle+keil&qid=1739459010&sprefix=danielle+keil%2Caps%2C263&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1

Review by Twinsie Dee

i was given this book by the author here is my honest review

New Year, new group of kids to walk the halls of Ryder High. But this year we start with them at the cemetery mourning the loss of a beloved member of Ryder High, and everyone getting a teal envelope explaining the start of the running tradition at the school. the next day only one envelope was seen on Phoebe’s locker but liked every month Phoebe wonders why her, why was she picked she stayed to herself and spent extra time in the music booth perfecting her tapes for college. Well ready or not this guy took the saying “when words fail music speaks” for her clues. Will Phoebe be shocked, surprised, excited or not thrilled when her month is up, and he is revealed. Other than making me cry in the first 3 pages, this was another amazing month with a great story that makes you smile in the end.

Danielle Keil grew up and spent the majority of her life in the Chicagoland area. A recent transplant, she is enjoying the Mississippi life, especially the pool in her backyard.
Danielle is happily married for over 10 years, and has two young children, a daughter and a son, who are exact replicas of her and her husband.

Danielle’s love language is gifts, her Ennegram is a 9w1, and she loves everything purple.
The way to her heart is through coffee, chocolate and tacos (extra guac).

2nd Chance, Part of a Series, Standalone, Writers on the River Attending Author, YA

#wotr #attendingauthor #partofaseries #YA Dear Max (Love Notes 10) by Danielle Keil

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Everyone at Ryder High knows what it means to have a teal envelope taped to their locker on the first of the month.
This month is different.
This month belongs to Max Newman. Prankster, jokester, overall funny guy. And the first student to ever receive a teal envelope from a girl.
The Secret Admirers organization switched things up. They allowed a girl to be the admirer, and Max is about to make history.
One problem—he only has three weeks to complete an entire bingo board. Some of the things on it are out of his control. Some things are right up his alley, though, like serenading the principal and pranking his best friend.
Will Max finish the bingo board and get the reveal location?
Or will he become the first guy at Ryder High to fail his challenge?

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63898220-dear-max

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BNPC42GP?ref_=dbs_m_mng_rwt_calw_tkin_9&storeType=ebooks&qid=1739459010&sr=8-12

Review by Twinsie Dee

i bought this book and here is my honest review

Dear Max, the laugh of Ryder High this month it’s your chance to shine brighter then you already do. One lovely lady picked you to forever change the history with our game, so have fun, enjoy and hope you are happy at the end of these 3 weeks. Having a teal envelope go to a guy indeed of a girl was out of the normal but it’s still fun for all involved. Max was thrilled about his envelope, his ego inflated just a bit more, and then he found out he only had 3 weeks to blackout his bingo board and get his clues. But Max hopes that the girl behind this month is the one who got away who he has never stopped loving, but he can’t get his hopes up incase it’s not her. Omg I loved Max’s month laughing so hard, enjoy all that he was giving defiantly a great one to end this series.

Danielle Keil grew up and spent the majority of her life in the Chicagoland area. A recent transplant, she is enjoying the Mississippi life, especially the pool in her backyard.
Danielle is happily married for over 10 years, and has two young children, a daughter and a son, who are exact replicas of her and her husband.

Danielle’s love language is gifts, her Ennegram is a 9w1, and she loves everything purple.
The way to her heart is through coffee, chocolate and tacos (extra guac).

2nd Chance, Audio Book, MC, mmf

#WOTR25 #MC #Audio #MMF – Savage Heat, Royal Bastards MC: Huntsville, AL #1 by K.L. Ramsey

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As president of my MC, I’ve always had to hide a part of who I am. I was fine with that until he walked into my life. Now, I can’t shove that half of myself into the dark anymore. My club won’t understand and the woman I want definitely won’t get it, but what choice do I have? I want them both and I’m done with not taking what I want.
Yeah, I’m savage enough to screw the rules to get what I want and I want them.
Both of them—and I won’t settle for less.
You can’t control who you love but sometimes, it’s savage enough to make its own heat.

Goodreads

Amazon

Review by Twinsie Angie

I purchased this audiobook.

I have not read any of the Royal Bastard books.  I grabbed this story since this author was going to be at my author event in July.  I wanted to read a book from each author if possible.

I will say I liked the narration.  It was ok.  She did a dine job with all the different voices.  They weren’t my favorite but not a terrible voice.  It was just ok.

I was intrigued that this book was about self-doubting Savage.  He isn’t open about his bisexuality and is afraid of what his club brothers will think of him being with men.  He meets Bowie and they have an instant attraction.  Both men like the other for their ages and body.   We also meet Dallas who is still mad that Savage dumped her after a month of dating a year later.  To me that seems a bit crazy.  To be so upset a year later.  I was like stage 5 clinger.  LOL  Savage said he ghosted because her doesn’t do feeling about really he is confused about his sexuality.

Savage isn’t the best with communication which we all know makes a mess of things.  Bowie and Dallas seem to figure it out between the 2 of them.  When the 3 finally figure things out is a good story.  But there were parts I was able to set the book down because it was a bit of a drag.  But all in all I did enjoy the story.

Romance Rebel fighting for Happily Ever After!
K. L. Ramsey currently resides in West Virginia (Go Mountaineers!). In her spare time, she likes to read romance novels, go to WVU football games and attend book club (aka-drink wine) with girlfriends.
K. L. enjoys writing Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance, and Sexy Ménage! She loves to write strong, capable women and bossy, hot as hell alphas, who fall ass over tea kettle for them. And of course, her stories always have a happy ending.
Sign up for my newsletter to stalk the hell out of me- I mean keep up to date with all of my releases! https://mailchi.mp/4e73ed1b04b9/autho…

2nd Chance, Military

#WOTR25 #Audio #Military #2ndChance – Rescuing Katherine, Bravo RISC Team #2 by Anna Blakely

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HE GAVE HER HIS HEART—AND SHE SHATTERED IT.

Bravo Team operative Matthew Turner used to believe in happily ever after, but that was years ago, before the only woman he’s ever loved betrayed him and shredded his heart. Since then, he’s worked hard and played even harder, determined he’ll never be vulnerable again.

NOT EVERYTHING IS AS IT SEEMS.

Katherine Marsh has only ever loved one man, but she was forced to cut Matt loose a decade ago to protect him. Since then, she’s focused on her research as a biomedical engineer…and tried not to regret losing the man who still haunts her dreams. Even from afar, she’s tried to continue protecting him by creating a military-commissioned formula that will save thousands of American operatives’ lives. But someone’s out there, determined to use Kat and her work as a weapon against the United States.

HE’LL FIGHT TO THE DEATH TO SAVE HER.

When Katherine unknowingly hires Matt’s private security team to protect her from recent threats, they’re forced to confront their tumultuous past. Just when their passion is rekindled and it seems they could find happiness together, the evil hunting Kat strikes.

With help from his Bravo teammates and Ghost’s Delta Team, Matt finds himself on the most important mission of his life: to save the only woman he’s ever loved. Will he reach her before this nemesis destroys Matt and Katherine’s second chance at love forever?

Goodreads

Amazon

Review by Twinsie Angie

I purchased this audiobook.

I will start by saying the narration in this audio book was amazing.  Both narrators did a fantastic job bringing the characters to life for me.

I will say I was excited for Matt’s book after reading book 1.  But I gotta tell ya, he was a major diiiiiiiiiiiiiiick.  Like I really didn’t like him.  OK Lemme say that the prologue broke my heart yes buuuuut he was such an awful guy to Kat when he sees her 10 years later.  I was like WOW Kat kick him right in the dick.  He was hateful and YES, I understand I have had my heart broken BUT at the same time he just didn’t listen.

Kat was a nice girl. She was put in hard positions her whole life by her dad.  Yes, I get why she broke Matt’s heart BUT when she says she still loved him 10 years later even when he was so douche, I was like GIRL NO!

Now the first part of the book I was not a fan of with them reconnecting and him being such as asshole. HOWEVER, once the story of why she needed protection took off I really did enjoy the story.  I liked the who and why of so many aspects.  Was I ok with the 2nd chance when it happened? Yes but at the same time I wish she made Matt grovel for like maybe 10 minutes LOL

So if you can get past the first few chapters with a mega asshat and get into the story I think you will enjoy the book.

Author of the exciting R.I.S.C. Series, Anna Blakely brings you stories of love, action, and edge of your seat suspense. As an avid reader herself, Anna writes what she loves…strong, Alpha heroes and the intelligent, independent heroines they love.

Anna’s dream is to create stories her readers will enjoy, and characters they’ll fall in love with as much as she has. She believes in true love and Happily Ever After, which is what she will bring to you.

Anna lives in rural Missouri with her husband and children, as well as several rescued animals. When she’s not writing, Anna enjoys reading, watching action and horror movies (the scarier the better), and spending time with her amazing family.

2nd Chance, Contemp. Romance, Military, Review, Small Town Romance

#Review – Mountain Storm (Mountain Mayhem Book 2) by Dawn Love

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They say you must weather the storms to find a rainbow.

Michael “Blaze” Blaisure and Lexi Lane have endured some of life’s hardest trials and are finally beginning to see clear skies. Now, they’re ready for the next phase of their lives to begin. A new career path and a new venture may be just what they need to move forward.

As they take those steps together, they are unaware of the danger lurking around the next corner. When the past rears its ugly head, they must face some of the most turbulent storms of their lives.

Will they survive the landslide headed their way? Or will fate rip them apart?

Goodreads

Amazon

Review by Twinsie Kelly

I must start by saying that the first book, Mountain Haven, is one of my favorite books EVER! I stumbled across it and when I picked it up, I couldn’t put it down. When I realized I could continue Lexi and Blaze’s story, I was ecstatic! Now, for Mountain Storm, Lexi and Blaze have started to settle into a sort of routine. Music is coming back to Lexi and Blaze has found a purpose with the police department. Ok everyone, the hotness level is turned up, waaay up! And waaaay fast! What I didn’t see coming was the twistedness that is twisted up within the guy that is all twisted. Gah, I just can’t with some people and the reasoning behind the things they do! The first book was a raging rollercoaster, and this book is more of a twisted pathway through a haunted forest. We are left with quite a cliffhanger at the end so I am desperately waiting for book 3 so I can figure out how I will attempt to describe that book, LOL! Dawn Love, you have a new stalker, er, um…I mean fan!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Dawn Love profile image

Dawn Love was born in Mayfield, Kentucky, and spent the first twenty-six years of her life there. Always a creative person and an avid reader, she began writing stories for her own entertainment as a teen, and her love of writing continued to grow into adulthood. She now resides on her 50-acre farm on the Delmarva peninsula. A mother of two, she spends her free time creating the characters and stories of her fantasies. She also writes an internationally read Blog where she shares stories, thoughts, and craziness.

Writing romance is her passion and it feeds her soul. She loves to tell a good, heartfelt story. Her motto is, “Steamy Romance and Heart Smiles.” You will always find a happy ever after or happy for now in her books

2nd Chance, Age Gap, Audio Book, BDSM, Contemp. Romance, Dark, Dark Romance, Enemies to Lovers, forced proximity, M/M, Paranormal, secret baby, Shifters, surprise pregnancy

#WOTR24 Paranormal #TeacherStudent #AgeGap #SuprisePregnancy #SecondChance #SmallTown #Contemporary #MM – Twinse Angie top 5 from July to December 2024 – Wreckage of Timber Creek and Stone Crest both by SJ Chaynie, Marked by Measha Stone, Mated to Curves by DV Fischer, and Boyfriend with Benefits by Allison Temple

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Hey all thanks for stopping by to check out my tops reads for the last half of the year.  The first half of the year books can be found HERE. The books included were  – Butcher & Blackbird by Brynne Weaver, Devoted by AJ Renee, Shadows of Timber Creek by SJ Chaynie, Ryker by Samantha Lind, Scallywag by Sophie Stern, and Corrupted Innocents by Measha Stone

These books are in no order for this 6 months are the following….

Wreckage of Stone Creek by SJ Chaynie

One minute you’re one of LA’s top attorneys, then the next, you’re buying a bar in a small town in Colorado, finding out you’re a father, and realizing the woman that you could never get out of your head wants nothing to do with you. She’s independent. Sexy. The mother of my child, and now……my new employee. All I need is a chance to plead my case. Make her see that I’m all in. But when my past comes back to haunt me, it puts the two people who own my heart and soul in the line of fire. I’ll do whatever it takes to keep them safe, and once we make it through the wreckage, and after all the closing arguments, there’s only one thing Whitley Harper will be. Mine. M
This is the fourth and final book of the Timber Creek Series. Series contains interconnected standalones.

Amazon

My review – Wreckage of Timber Creek, Book 4 of Timber Creek Series by S.J. Chaynie
I received this book from the author for an honest review.
To say I was excited for this book…well any in the series for that fact…would be a total an understatement. Each of the men has stolen my heart completely. I THINK Grey is still my favorite but dang it, Jordan is riiiiiight next to him tapping on Grey’s NFL Shoulders.
Whit…oh Whit. She is so closed off after a bad relationship. She was all for a one-night stand with no strings, but she ended up with a lifelong parting gift by the name of Heidi. Whit runs home to the small town she grew up in and refused to admit anything about Heidi’s parentage. She was just home to raise her daughter.
Jordan was a goner the second he saw Whitley. When he persuaded her to have the one night-stand, he was done. He was ready to convince this stubborn woman how perfect they would be, but she disappeared on him. When he finds her, and with his own drama happening, he changes everything to be with her.
These two…OMG YES!! I freaking loved their story. My favorite lines is Jordan talking to Whitley
I will never not want you Whitley Harper. You’re it for me. Now if you are done. I am going to fuck you on the desk!
Oh Jordan!!! SWOON!!
As with all the books from this amazing author, she gives us a couple of great twists and this one didn’t disappoint at all.
I gotta say WTF with the 2nd epilogue!!! Ma’am you have some explaining to do!

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Stone Crest by SJ Chaynie

A chance encounter.
A blue-eyed Raven.
A single curse.
She’s not supposed to be mine. Not just because I’m her professor, or she’s my student, but because of what I am. A man with a mask. A shifter with a curse. But I can’t stay away. Not when I know the beauty of her heart, and not when her life is in danger. Truths are revealed, secrets unveiled, and when my wolf decides she’s ours, there’s no turning back. I’ve always protected Stone Crest, but now, I’ll spend the rest of my life protecting her.

Stone Crest: Rise of a Raven is a standalone professor/student shifter romance with no cheating and a HEA.

Amazon

My Review – Stone Crest, Rise of Raven book 1 by S.J. Chaynie
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
When I was told that the author was writing a paranormal story I was over the moon. Paranormal was mu jam. Knowing how great of a writer she is, I knew she would nail the story and boy was I right.
Raven is being forced to go to an college by her overbearing, rich, “important” father. He doesn’t want her to ruin the good family name after what she recently did!!
Raven meets her roomie Prestley (who I love so much and cannot wait for what is in store for her and Dec) that forces her to come out of her room to hang out. When she is hangin’ with her one night she runs into a tall drink of water. After a one night stand she strolls into her class to find he is her teacher!!! WHOOOOP.
Locke is stunned stupid when he sees the woman he met on the side of the road who has captures his heart and mind is a STUDENT!! WOOF he broke meg rules.
The story is amazing. Raven and Locke are fighting their attraction while we are also finding out all of their backstory which is amazing. Raven has secrets. Loche has secrets. Dec has something happening that I need to know forbook 2. The rest of Loche’s team are having issues as well.
This story was not long enough. The story has so much happening that I couldn’t put the story down. I am also very excited the future stories in the series because its going to be

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Marked by Measha Stone

With each passing moment, the nightmares worsen.
Tortured images of a past I cannot remember haunt me.
I know I’m in danger… I just don’t know why.

Then he comes to my town.

I can feel him watching me, studying me, always from the shadows—like a hunter stalking its prey.
The closer he circles, the more aware of him I become.
His nearness is toxic, and yet…

There’s something about the darkness within him that calls to me, that speaks to the scars of my troubled past.
Only a truly violent man could understand my demons.
He will either be my salvation or lead me to my destruction.

Amazon

My Review – Marked by Measha Stone
I received this book from the author for an honest review.
Oh man. I admit I took this ARC not really knowing much except for its dark romance. LOL I like Measha’s stories so I was ready.
This book was EVERYTHING I could have wanted in a dark romance. I mean Zack was *Chef’s kiss* dark and delicious. He sees Harley while on a job but had to get to know her. Know her he does *snickers*.
Harley’s life is awful. She has a sister who was murdered, and the town pretty much hates her for the loss of her sister and not her. Wild town but that is the small-town dynamic right? Everyone knows your business and has a say in it.
Harley finally feels free but mostly SAFE in the arms of Zack. The two tumble down the story of her kidnapping and sister’s murder. It was WILD!!! I MEAN WILD!!!! I had no idea what was going to happen next, but each scene had me saying “WHUUUUUU!!!!!!” because Measha has the way of keeping you guessing while also busting your brain wide open with twists.
I am so excited for this series. I cannot wait for book 2 based on the little bit we already know. Any dark romance lover and any Measha lover will need this book to complete their obsession with her writing.

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Mated to Curves series by DV Fischer (I only included book 1 but the stories are all novellas so grab the whole series.)

Avani is okay with being alone. Even though all shifters are packless and the world looks vastly different now that the humans are suspicious they exist, she’s handling the solitary life quite well. However, she’s thrown a curve ball when she finds out that her mate owns a shifter underground club she frequents. Once he laid eyes on her, he was determined to keep her. But, even though he’s incredibly attractive, enticing, and she wants more than anything to give in to him, she isn’t stupid. Two alphas together would start a pack and that could be disastrous. With her demanding to remain mate-less for the good of their kind, how is he going to convince her to accept him?

This is a steamy curvy girl shifter romance with two strong alpha characters.

Amazon

My Review – Mated to Curves, Book 1 by D.V. Fischer
I purchased this book.
I met this author at a book signing. When I saw I could get 5 novellas for a few bucks I jumped. I started this book when I was on the long drive home. The author has several novellas series (all on audio as well). I just grabbed this set and went. They are all standalones. The only issue I had was wondering why wolf packs dispersed. I am not sure if that is discussed in another book but otherwise, I just rolled with it. Packs can’t be packs. Got it!
Cade is an alpha who finds happiness taking care of the submissive shifters in his fighting ring. He can’t be the alpha but he gives the packless a place to be.
Avani is a scappy female alpha who is looking to make a big pay day fighting Kye in the underground club. All is good until she and Cade make eye contact then BOOM. There is a lot of hell no’s from Avani and Cade uses all his good moves to get her alone with him.
I was loving this book and then we get to see the couple for book 2, Kye and Joyce. I was thrilled because Joyce was a riot!!! She is the best best friend anyone would want.
If you love instalove, fated mates, shifters, and all that jazz then this series is a must for you!!

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Boyfriend with Benefits by Allison Temple

When Bailey’s new boss turns out to be his childhood bully, a.k.a. Jake the Jerk, it’s time to call in backup for the upcoming corporate retreat in Vegas. Too bad Bailey works too much to date. His best option is to ask his very straight roommate to play the part of temporary boyfriend, even if Gordo is better with pythons than he is with people.

Except Bailey and Gordo haven’t even checked into the hotel and Jake the Jerk is already everywhere. The pressure is on for Bailey to prove he deserves to climb the corporate ladder, but it’s hard to talk shop as Gordo goes from backup to an increasingly attractive distraction.

Bailey’s trying to keep his cool, schmooze the executives and stick to the plan, even though Gordo’s not playing by any of the rules. They’ve always been just friends, but maybe it’s time to be boyfriends…with full benefits.

Boyfriend with Benefits is a contemporary MM romance novella. It features fake boyfriends who might not be so fake, a hotel room with only one bed, and a James Bond moment in a tiny blue bathing suit. HEA guaranteed.

Amazon

My Review – Boyfriend with Benefits by Allison Temple
I purchased this audiobook.
The narration was great. He did a great job varying the voices but I LOVED how he did Gordo. It definitely hit the peace love and happiness vibe Gordo puts off well
I was looking for a quick novella and saw this book from and author who is attending a book event /I was going too. I love the whole Fake dating aspect so I was sold.
When we meet Bailey he was a bit high strung being in the corporate world and climbing the ladder of success. He gets bad news that the man who made his life hell is now going to be his boss. Oh snap! Worse of all he lied and said bully that he has a great boyfriend and they can’t wait to hang out at the corporate retreat.
Yeah uhm CRAP!
Enter the amazing Gordo. Gordo is NOT in the corporate world. He is a peace love a happiness guy that loves to rescue any animal really from dogs to dragons to snaked and spiders. He said he would love to help his roomie out as long as they can see the fountains while in Vegas.
This is when THINGS start to happen and make me look at Gordo a little more …like maybe he isn’t so peace love and happiness. Maybe is he …well, I won’t say my guesses but lets just say Gordo is the best fake boyfriend ever.
I absolutely loved this story. Gordo knows Bailey very well and knows exactly what he needs when he needs it Bailey soon realizes a lot about his fake boyfriend like he wants Gordo to be his real boyfriend through this emotional roller coaster of a weekend. Jake, well lets say he has the nickname for a reason and he deserved it his entire life. LOL