Twinsie Tenise’s Top 5 from July-December #MMRomance #BDSM #NewAdult #PsychologicalThrillers

Twinsie Tenise’s Top 5 

Wow! I read so many amazing books in 2021. Now comes the hard part. Picking a top 5 from everything I’ve read since July. As any reader knows, narrowing down your top favorites is a rather difficult task. 
These 5 stood out to me. They all had me engaged from start to finish. They are all books that I have and will continue to recommend to others. In no particular order, I give you my Top 5 reads from July-December 2021.

Both men had pretty much given up on finding their forever, but fate was just waiting for the right time.
Charlie moves to small-town Briarton with plans to live his quiet life as a writer. He’s resigned himself to being alone and isn’t expecting anything different from his new home. But a coffee mix-up brings him face-to-face with a man Charlie had decided didn’t really exist.
Nixon is grateful for a new job in a new town. He’s ready to leave the past in the past and settle down. He’s not actively looking for a relationship—that’s never worked out for him before—but he can’t deny the instant connection he has with his newest patient’s nephew.
Is it too late for Charlie and Nix to find their happily ever after? Or will they accept fate’s gift and allow themselves a love they thought they’d never find?
**Perfect Timing is a steamy, M/M romance with an introverted, demisexual writer and a big, soft teddy bear of a nurse trying to navigate a love they’ve always dreamed of but most definitely weren’t expecting.**

Warning: This book is not for the faint of heart. If you deal with triggers, please read this book with caution.
Material consists of adult content and BDSM.

I was sent away for protection.
Pulled from a world and forced into another, I lost myself on the way.
No emotion. Only walls to hide feelings that were now masked behind a barrier.
Matteo Santos opened my eyes. He helped me see through the darkness that consumed my soul. He breathed life into my lungs, gripping my heart until it beat again.
With a darkness of his own, it haunted him, turning him into a beautiful Master of seduction and pain.
Through trust and love, we would battle our pasts together.
Before they took control…completely.

“Not everything is as it seems.” ~ Beautiful Pain

She needed peace, not murder. He wanted love but found danger. Will a talented pair of investigators live to see their romance bloom?

Forensic photographer Faith Day can’t forget her tortured past. And returning to her hometown to help care for her nephew means rebuilding all she’s lost. But her brave plans shatter when her best friend is suspected of her own husband’s brutal slaying…

FBI Special Agent Luke Justice never rests until the culprits are caught. But when a violent case touches the life of the woman he loves, he can’t help but make it personal. And with a second investigation into a vicious prison gang diverting all his attention, he fears he’ll struggle to protect her from the killer’s disturbing taunts.

Discovering an ominous photo of herself at the crime scene, Faith is terrified the murderer is someone she knows. And when Luke uncovers a sinister connection to Faith, he suspects they’re all being lured into a lethal trap.

Can Luke and Faith stop the slaughter before they join the body count?

Secret is in the Bones is the beguiling third tale in the Paynes Creek Thriller romantic suspense series. If you like deadly twists, devious psychopaths, and against-all-odds chemistry, then you’ll adore Heather Sunseri’s fast-paced story.

Buy Secret is in the Bones to free the innocent today!

Life and a dismal last name are the only two things Beyah Grim’s parents ever gave her. After carving her path all on her own, Beyah is well on her way to bigger and better things, thanks to no one but herself.

With only two short months separating her from the future she’s built and the past she desperately wants to leave behind, an unexpected death leaves Beyah with no place to go during the interim. Forced to reach out to her last resort, Beyah has to spend the remainder of her summer on a peninsula in Texas with a father she barely knows. Beyah’s plan is to keep her head down and let the summer slip by seamlessly, but her new neighbor Samson throws a wrench in that plan.

Samson and Beyah have nothing in common on the surface.

She comes from a life of poverty and neglect; he comes from a family of wealth and privilege. But one thing they do have in common is that they’re both drawn to sad things. Which means they’re drawn to each other. With an almost immediate connection too intense for them to continue denying, Beyah and Samson agree to stay in the shallow end of a summer fling. What Beyah doesn’t realize is that a rip current is coming, and it’s about to drag her heart out to sea.

Seeing isn’t always believing.
Trapped by her past trauma, Macy McCall worked with a variety of therapists and medications- most yielding minimal results. Her newest doctor, Daniel Yates, helps bring forth her biggest breakthroughs and she believes she can see the light at the end of a very dark and scary tunnel. With a boyfriend and a good job, she enjoys her blooming independence.
Then she sees her.
The woman that looks exactly like her.
This mirror image plagues her life in a way that she would never have expected. And when it all unravels, she won’t be the only one left wondering what is real and what is imagined.

Trigger Warning: This book deals with the topic of mental illness & trauma with mentions of abuse and self-harm/suicide.

Perfect Timing- Goodreads

Beautiful Pain- Goodreads

Secret is in the Bones- Goodreads

Heart Bones- Goodreads

Neurosis- Goodreads

Perfect Timing- Amazon

Beautiful Pain- Amazon

Secret in the Bones- Amazon

Heart Bones- Amazon

Neurosis- Amazon

Reviews by Twinsie Tenise

Perfect Timing by: A.D. Ellis

Charlie moves to Briarton to write. He has deadlines to meet and the small town is the perfect place for peace and quiet. Charlie is single and not looking to mingle. He is caring for his elderly uncle and writing and is content with that.

Nixon just bought a house in Briarton. He is working as a nurse for the local Dr’s office. Just like Charlie, he’s not exactly looking for a relationship.

You know the saying- The One for you will show up when you least expect it?
Well let’s just say both of these men are blindsided by the instant connection they feel for one another and they aren’t sure how to deal with this revelation.

I read the first book in this series, thinking it was a standalone. I will just say I’m so happy it wasn’t. I love the little town of Briarton and these 2 men were great additions. And don’t even get me started on Charlie’s Uncle Otto. That man and his meddling added the perfect amount of humor to the story.

Beautiful Pain by: JM Walker

Normally, when reading a book from an Authors backlist, I would be mad at myself for not reading said book sooner. Not this time. I’m not going to feel bad, because experiencing this book for the first time is something special. I’m just glad to experience it now. Better late than never.
It took me about a week to read Beautiful Pain. It did not take so long because I wasn’t into the book– actually its the complete opposite– I wanted to take my time with this one. Slowly savoring all of the delicious words. Trying to make the book last just a little bit longer because I wasn’t ready to let them go.
I’m so in love with this book, the plot, the characters. I just wanted to reach into the book and squeeze both of the main characters and be there for them to vent their problems. To tell them that everything will be alright. Matteo and Mae both had lots of deep seated issues. Two severely broken people who needed one another to breathe. To live. To heal. My heart is so full of love for this book. I can honestly say, without a doubt, it is THE BEST book I’ve read this year and will be hard for any book to top it.

Secret in the Bones (Paynes Creek book 3) by: Heather Sunsuri

Bad things are happening in Paynes Creek and half the town seems to be blaming one person. But things aren’t always as they seem and they are pointing fingers in the wrong direction.

Luke has felt something for Faith since the first time he laid eyes on her. But will those feelings ever be reciprocated?

Faith left town a year ago but something horrible has brought her back to Paynes Creek and to Luke. Will Faith give Luke a chance this time? Or will she leave and never look back?

Just like with all of the other books in this series, the author kept me guessing. Secret is in the Bones was a fast paced, page turner that had me engaged from the very first page. It is a love story wrapped in a murder mystery and I loved every minute of it. This is book 3 in the series and it’s very important you start with book 1, Death is in the Details, or you will not understand what is going on in this book.

Heart Bones by: Colleen Hoover

A story about true love and soul mates that is both beautiful and ugly. I really felt like I connected with Beyah. I felt her pain.

 

From a young age, Beyah refuses to become a victim of circumstance. She is only 19 years old and brave af! I loved everything about her character.

Samson was quite the conundrum. Just when I thought I had him figured out. BAM! Another layer.
I could not get enough of the 2 of them together. They may be opposites on the surface but Beyah and Samson’s attraction was immediate and only intensified as the days of summer passed. A summer both of them wish would never end. The end of summer means goodbye and neither of them are quite ready to utter that word.

I loved every single page of this book. I wanted to read fast, yet I never wanted the book to end. It was absolutely flipping phenomenal!

 
Neurosis by: Amy Hale
I had to take a second to collect my thoughts after finishing Neurosis before trying to compose a review. I have been on a major psychological thriller kick lately so when I was given a copy of this book, I started it immediately and finished it quickly.  And let me tell you– it’s definitely in my top 3 for psychological thrillers and I’ve read a TON of them lately.

 

Macy has had a rough life and suffers from severe PTSD. Things are going as good as they can in her life at the moment. But that is all about to change and it will have an effect of every person in Macy’s life. I will say no more because this is a book that you should go into with minimal information so you can experience all the twist and turns for yourself.

I had many what the what moments while reading this book. It had me constantly guessing. Then just when I thought I had things figured out, I would turn the page and find out I was way off! Neurosis is a bingeworthy read. I loved every single page and I look forward to reading what Amy comes up with next.

Continue reading Twinsie Tenise’s Top 5 from July-December #MMRomance #BDSM #NewAdult #PsychologicalThrillers

#WOTR22 #attendingauthor #spotlight – Sara Whitney

Sara Whitney

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Sara Whitney writes sassy contemporary romance that’s always sunny with a chance of sizzle. A multiple award-winning author, Sara worked as a print journalist and film critic before she earned her Ph.D. and landed in academia. She’s a good pinball player, a great baker, and an expert at shouting her TV opinions to anyone who’ll listen.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

Both have their challenges, but the later books require more consistency checks to make sure I haven’t changed a previously introduced character’s age, hometown, eye color, profession, last name… you know, little things like that.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Be kind to yourself. Writing can be lonely, and it can make you question your skill, creativity, motivation. Take breaks when you need it, and reach out to your support networks. Also, don’t forget that comparison is the thief of joy. Write your books and run your career without worrying about where you should be or what other authors are achieving. We’re all in this together!

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

Erik, the Thor-like baker in my series starter, Tempting Taste. He’s one of those quiet, introverted characters who keeps his feelings under tight control… until he doesn’t. I love that the intensity of his emotions overwhelms the heroine, who’s starved for affection after a lifetime in an emotional Sahara.

If any of your books were to be made into a movie, who are the celebrities that would star in it? What book and who?

Tempting Taste: Amy Adams and Norwegian Instagram hottie Lasse Matberg (no idea if he can act, but he definitely LOOKS the part)

What is your definition of success?

I’ve succeeded if a reader enjoyed escaping into one of my books for a few hours. Money, fame, and a private jet staffed with Tom Hiddleston lookalikes would be great, but making connections with readers is what keeps me writing.

What are your social links?

https://www.facebook.com/SaraWhitneyAuthor/

https://www.instagram.com/sarawhitney_/

https://www.tiktok.com/@authorsara?

What are your buy links?

https://www.amazon.com/Sara-Whitney/e/B07RPBJV4L/

https://books.apple.com/us/author/sara-whitney/id1463165311 https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/%22Sara%20Whitney%22

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/search?query=sara%20whitney

https://play.google.com/store/books/author?id=Sara+Whitney

Want to buy tickets to Writers on the River?

go to www.WritersontheRiver.com

VIP is $45. 12-1 VIP signing Time, Swag bag and 1-4 general signing time.  Plus includes After Party.

Early Access is $25. 12-1 VIP signing time, Swag bag, and 1-4 general signing time.  No After Party.

General Admission is $10. 1-4 General Signing Time ONLY

After Party is $35. After Party 7:30-11:30 ONLY

#AudioReview – Jonah Bennett: A Bennett Mafia Novella (1001 Dark Nights) By: Tijan –Narrators Benjamin Charles and Holly Warren

Jonah Bennett: A Bennett Mafia Novella (1001 Dark Nights)

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Tijan comes a new story in her Bennett Mafia universe…

Jonah Bennett wasn’t like his family. The mafia business was firmly what his brothers did, not him.

That changed the day a rival family killed his fiancée.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

Goodreads

Review by Twinsie Melinda

I purchased the audio book from Audible.

I enjoyed this Mafia story of Tijan as much as her other books. Benjamin Charles and Holly Warren did a great job of narrating this story.  They both kept the story moving and flowing well.

Jonah Bennett was in the business of saving lives not his family business but that changed the day he watched his fiancée get gunned down right in front of him. Since someone targeted Jonah he has to decide if he is going to keep avoiding the protection of his family or accept who he is and embrace the family. This one had my emotions all over with the suspense and ups and downs.

If you like suspense and action-packed story this is a great one.  The connection and chemistry between Jonah and Carson were great. I also liked reading about the Bennett family especially Kai and Brooke. I will be going back and reading about Kai. I truly need more of this family.

Tijan is a New York Times Bestselling author that writes suspenseful and unpredictable novels. Her characters are strong, intense, and gut-wrenchingly real with a little bit of sass on the side. Tijan began writing later in life and once she started, she was hooked. She’s written multi-bestsellers including the Carter Reed Series, the Fallen Crest Series, and Ryan’s Bed among others. She is currently writing to her heart’s content in north Minnesota with an English Cocker Spaniel she adores.

To find what to read next of hers, go to www.tijansbooks.com

WALLSTREET JOURNAL, NEW YORK TIMES, AND USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

#WOTR22 #attendingauthor #Spotlight – Mellanie Szereto

Mellanie Szereto

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Hi! I’m Mellanie Szereto, author of nearly forty steamy and super steamy romances, and I enjoy writing about characters who have experience with life, love, careers, and changes. Many of my stories are set in Midwestern small towns, much like my own life, and focus on family, friendship, and figuring out the meaning of true happiness. Living in the country suits me since I’m an avid gardener, am most at home in nature, and love hiking. I also enjoy cooking, baking, and reading, of course!

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

When I know I’ll be starting a new series, the first book is usually the hardest. I’m getting to know the main characters, setting, the dynamics of the relationships with secondary characters, and the general tone of the series. Once that world has its foundation, the other books seem to fall into place, providing enough background information to know what needs to happen with those other characters.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

Like real people, my characters are unique and have their own life stories, experiences, fears, motivations, etc. While a few details may overlap here and there, each book develops into a story made for those characters. A different character will react differently in similar situations and each relationship is a new discovery!

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

BALANCE. Yes, I’m still working on it, even after 10+ years and nearly 40 books. Finding that perfect mix of writing, marketing, self-care, and other responsibilities can be difficult, but it’s a must to avoid burnout. And make time for reading!

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

I spend about 4-5 hours a day focused on actual writing and about 4-5 hours a day on writing-related business like marketing, social media, and emails.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

One of my favorite characters is Georgie Swofford from And Baby Makes 2½ (The Homegrown Café Book Club 5). At the beginning of the series, I thought she was a hard-nosed workaholic family law attorney, but she developed into a truly loyal friend by book 4 and revealed a personal history in book 5 that explained her standoffish demeanor. She earned her happily-ever-after with Oscar, who turned out to be more sweetheart than grouch!

If any of your books were to be made into a movie, who are the celebrities that would star in it? What book and who?

Oscar Banyan, former mayor of The Homegrown Café Book Club’s small town setting, from And Baby Makes 2½ will be played by Jason Momoa. He’s a recluse with a ZZ Top beard and long hair throughout the series–until Georgie insists on a haircut and shave to agree to his fake relationship deal. Charlize Theron will play the part of Georgina Swofford, his ex-wife’s divorce attorney and fake fiancée.

What is your definition of success?

While making a living from writing is important to me, creating books I love and having readers love them defines success to me. Hearing someone tell me (and other readers) they enjoyed one of my books is the best!

What are your social links?

Website: https://www.mellanieszereto.com
Newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/mellanieszereto
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authormellanieszereto
Facebook reader group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/worththewaitseasonedromancereaders
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mellanie-szereto
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/mellanie_szereto
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mellanieszereto

What are your buy links?

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/mellanieszereto
Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/author/mellanie-szereto/id540431015
Audible: Audible page: https://www.audible.com/author/Mellanie-Szereto/B00GYKKZ7I
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Mellanie Szereto
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/author?id=Mellanie+Szereto
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/search?query=mellanie%20szereto&fcsearchfield=Author

Want to buy tickets to Writers on the River?

go to www.WritersontheRiver.com

VIP is $45. 12-1 VIP signing Time, Swag bag and 1-4 general signing time.  Plus includes After Party.

Early Access is $25. 12-1 VIP signing time, Swag bag, and 1-4 general signing time.  No After Party.

General Admission is $10. 1-4 General Signing Time ONLY

After Party is $35. After Party 7:30-11:30 ONLY

Twinsie Melinda favorite reads from 2021

Writers on the River Attending Authors: Mary Martel, Michel Prince and JM Walker

Its that time again we closed the door on 2021 and starting 2022.  My 2021 was a little crazy and I didn’t get as much reading in as I would have liked. It is hard to escape into books when things in real life are crashing around you. So instead of giving you my top 5 for June through December I decided to post a few of my favorites that I read this year.

For Amazon Buy links click on book covers.

Steel MC Montana Series by: Michel Prince and Wren McCabe

Steel MC Montana Charter: Books 1-5 by [Michel Prince, Wren McCabe]  Cream: Book 6 of the Steel MC Montana Charter  Dreamer: Book 7 of The Steel MC Montana Charter  Topaz: Book 8 of the Steel MC Montana Charter  Nightingale (Steel MC Montana Charter Book 9)

My Review

RoadKill -Book #1 Review

Lil’ Mama – Book #2 Review

Preacher Girl – Book #3 Review

Lil’ Bit – Book #4 Review

Free – Book #5 Review

Cream – Book #6 Review

Dreamer – Book #7 Review

Topaz – Book #8 Review

Nightingale – Book #9 Review

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Finally Us (Next Generation #5) by: JM Walker

Finally Us (Next Generation, #5)

Melinda’s Review

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Dirty Crown by: Mary Martel

Dirty Crown

Melinda’s Review

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The Ties that Bind (Brie’s Submission, #22) by: Red Phoenix

The Ties That Bind (Brie's Submission, #22)

Melinda’s Review

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Canary (A mafia/cartel enemies-to-lovers standalone) by: Tijan

Canary

Melinda’s Review

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Fallen Royal (Mafia Royals, #4) by: Rachel VanDyken

Fallen Royal (Mafia Royals, #4)

Melinda’s Review

Wishing everyone happy readings in 2022.