All posts by Melinda B

#Review – Ren: The Monster Inside the Monster (Ren Series #3) By Sarah Noffke

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synopsis

Ren Lewis, who has faced every danger known to man, is about to meet a challenge he’s convinced has the power to undo him. When he discovers that his daughter, Adelaide, has been hiding a pregnancy he goes into hiding himself. Having a daughter was one catastrophe he struggled with. But now, being expected to welcome her baby into his home is not something Ren knows how to assimilate into his life. With a new ferocity he throws himself into his work in order to avoid family responsibility. And there’s enough work to keep him occupied with Vivian Bishop trying to infiltrate American homes, intent on controlling and manipulating their residents. Ren soon realizes that Vivian is his perfect enemy. She’s strategic, brilliant and stunningly beautiful.
In this third and final installment, the monster in Ren will have to do the unspeakable. He will have to evolve. Nothing in his life can be approached employing any of the strategies he’s used before. The evolution of Ren might be his undoing, but it might also be the one thing that brings him real happiness.

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Melinda's Review

I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

Ren is amazing and I’m so glad that Sarah Noffke let his story be told. Let’s face it he is snarky tell it like he sees it and holds nothing back no matter who you are he does not care. You either love him, hate him, or love to hate him but again he does not care. Then you add Adelaide his daughter to the mix and she is exactly like him only difference is she wants Ren to love her and care about her but the Monster in them both knows that is just not possible.

When God’s Little Monster ends we find out Adelaide is prego and now Ren is trying to stay as far away from her and the monster she created by tossing himself into his work. He has to find out what Vivian’s true game plan is before she implements her plan. She is out maneuvering them at every turn and there is a mole he has to flush out of the institute.

Back at home Adelaide was not dealing well with her new baby. He would cry all the time. Ironicly the only one that could clam him was Ren. I wanted to shake Ren for the way he was treating Adelaide while she was going through her pregnancy and when she was giving birth, I know he was just being Ren but WOW just WOW. Then with this the issues Adelaide was brining on herself, the nanny’s departing like leaves on trees in the fall, and the decisions Ren was making to solve this case it’s no wonder Dahlia walked away.

I loved this series Ren was the best he was the same no holds bar snarky man throughout the series. If he didn’t like someone which was mostly everyone he treated them the same throughout the entire series. Ren and Dahlia relationship was priceless only he and Dahlia could survive a relationship like this. The way he never called anyone by their real name only by names he chooses to call them by was great. The fact that Adelaide did the same thing was a hoot. The way Ren went about solving this case I wanted to throat punch him I mean really how could he do that to Dahlia. The way he treated Lucien I mean I shouldn’t be shocked it is Ren after all but come on Ren this is your Grandson, a baby, how bad can it be. The thing I loved the most about this series is how Sarah Noffke is able to intertwine her other series with this one there is Dr. David Reardon in here who I love seeing again by the way. Sarah had me guessing to the very end I thought I knew but she did a great job keeping in the dark tell the end. Each series I read I say this is my favorite then she writes another series and out does herself this is no different. I fell in love with Ren the first time I Read him and I still love him. I only hope I get to see him again sometime in another one of Sarah’s series.

about the author

Sarah Noffke

Sarah Noffke writes YA & NA sci-fi, fantasy and dystopian. She is the author of the Lucidites, Reverians, Ren, and Vagabond Circus series. She’s been everything from a corporate manager to a hippie. Her taste for adventure has taken her all over the world. If you can’t find her at the gym, then she’s probably at the frozen yogurt shop. If you can’t find her there then she probably doesn’t want to be found. She is a self-proclaimed hermit, with spontaneous urges to socialize during full moons and when Mercury is in retrograde. Sarah lives in Central California with her family.

#Review – Blog Tour – Into the Nothing by BT Urruela

Title: Into the Nothing
Series: Broken Outlaw #1
Author: BT Urruela
Release Date: June 21, 2016
Xander Evans has been on the road for many years. Never settling. Always moving from one place to another, unable to let go of his past. He lived a tragic childhood, spending most of those years in foster care. He’s never felt like he’s had a home. That is until he stops in the small town of Truman Valley, Missouri, where he meets a woman who will change everything he’s ever known.
Paige Watson has it all. A loving family, beautiful home, and a great career. The only thing she’s missing….is love. After escaping an abusive relationship, she opens her heart up to a stranger. He is unlike any man she’s ever met. He came into her life and turned it completely upside down. Everything is perfect. That is, until one fateful night. 
A night that would tear the Watson family apart, never to be put back together again. 
A night that would send Xander away to prison for life.

Melinda’s Review

I have been waiting for this one to drop to my kindle and I enjoyed reading it. I found myself laughing at the characters and wanting to have a drink with them at points in the book. Then there were parts were I wanted to curl up next to them and hug them hold them and cry with them. You know something bad happens from the prologue but you get sucked into the story and you just don’t want to believe it’s going to happen or be true. These people become family, your family and you only want the best for them good things for them. I mean they are good people after all. What am I talking about who are these wonderful people well let me tell you about them.

Xander Evans grew up in foster care and is traveling through a small town in Missouri when he sees a guy giving a gorgeous woman a hard time. Well Xander is not going to stand for that and steps in. This wins the appreciation of the ladies father and an invite to dinner which eventually lands Xander a job at the Watson Wineries. Xander becomes close to the Watson family especially the daughter Paige. However, he keeps his distance because he doesn’t want to disrespect her dad Jack.  Xander doesn’t made many friends and Paige has a nasty ex that won’t leave them alone. Things are going good until one tragic night that changes all their lives for the worse and their lives will never be the same.  Want to know what that was well you’re going to have to get the book and read it for yourself because that is all your getting out of me.  Now I need to go get my tissues to catch the tears.

I absolutely loved Paige and her no hold back say whatever I son my mind. Even though she has a great family life and a loving mom and dad it doesn’t mean she has had an easy life. The relationship she has with her BFF Brandi is the best they can tell each other anything just say it how it is and not get upset with one another if they do they don’t stay that way for long. The friendship that Xander and Chase have is amazing too. Even though Xander tries to fight the feelings for Paige the sparks are there and they are spectacular. The day Paige’s Mom and Dad find out about them is great I enjoy watching these two squirm.

BT Urruela did a good job on his first novel he had me turning the pages devouring this story. I so enjoyed these characters they came alive for me I was right there going through everything with them and when tragedy hits I was a blubbering mess even though I knew it was coming I still didn’t want to admit it. It’s like I said these people became my people and I wanted to protect them and didn’t want anything to happen to them. All I can say is I so cannot wait for more, I want more and need more of Xander, Paige, Brandi and Chase.

I received this book for an honest review.

“How about twenty questions?” I ask.
“I hate twenty questions.”
“How about five questions, then?”
He cracks a smile and lifts an eyebrow. “How about three?”
“Deal!”
“So, have I mentioned how much I fucking hate Tuesdays?” Brandi’s voice cuts right between us. Xander looks relieved.
Me? Not so much. “Damn it, Brandi!”
“What?”
“Oh nothing. Can you grab me Fireball though? Pretty please. Two of them.” I look at Xander. “You’re taking one.”
“Three. I am too, bitch! Fuck Tuesdays!” Brandi calls out from across the bar as she begins filling the shot glasses from the Fireball chiller.
“Question one. You said you’ve been traveling for a while now, right? Do you ever get tired of it? Ever feel like settling?”
“Damn. Starting out with the heavy hitters, huh?” He eyes the shot glasses as if hoping it will somehow make them fill faster.
“Need me to go easier on you? Maybe a finger or two first before I go in with the whole fist?”
He looks at me in disbelief. “Did you really just say that?”
“Just answer the question, two fingers or three?”
BT Urruela was an infantryman in the US Army from August 2004 until February 2011. At the end of a year long tour to Baghdad, Iraq, his vehicle was hit by two roadside bombs, which took his right leg below the knee and the life of his commander. He was awarded a Purple Heart for his wounds, an Army Commendation Medal, and Combat Infantryman’s Badge. He medically retired from the Army in 2011 and moved to Tampa, FL where he currently works as a Director and Brand Ambassador for VETSports, a veteran community sports nonprofit he co-founded in 2012. He also conducts motivational speeches, works as a cover and fitness model and he’s a personal performance trainer. He co-wrote the military romance novel A Lover’s Lament and will be releasing his debut solo novel, Into the Nothing, on June 21st, 2016.

 

#Review – Twinsie Melinda Top 5 from January 1 to June 30

What a start to a great year.  My partner in crime and I have been to a few signings already this year. A road trip to Chicago and an eventful trip to Houston. We have been planning our own signing here in East Peoria the past year for Writers on the River on July 9, 2016 and Tickets are still available at www.writersontheriver.weebly.com

My top 5 reads since January 1, 2016 are in no particular order:

In the Red – Chelsea Camaron

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Melinda's Review

Review

synopsis

The event that shook one small town to its core was never solved. The domino effect of one person’s crime going unpunished is beyond measure.

He’s no saint.

Dover ‘Collector’ Ragnes rides with only five brothers at his back. Nomads with no place to call home, they never stay in one place too long. Together, they are the Devil’s Due MC, and their only purpose is to serve justice their way for unsolved crimes everywhere they go.

She’s not afraid to call herself a sinner.

Emerson Flint still remembers the loss of her elementary school best friend. She is all grown up, but the memories still haunt her of the missing girl. Surrounding herself with men at the tattoo shop, she never questions her safety. Her life is her art. Her canvas is the skin of others.

However, danger is at her door.

Will Dover overcome the history he shares with Emerson in time? Will Emerson lead him to the retribution he has always sought?

Love, hate, anger, and passion collide as the time comes, and the devil demands his due.

Each book in the Devil’s Due MC is a stand alone, full length novel. Contains adult content, language, and violence not suitable for readers under the age of 18. This is not an exact depiction of life in a motorcycle club, but rather a work of fiction meant to entertain.

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Goodreads

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Roots and Wings – M. Mabie

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Melinda's Review

Review

synopsis

Welcome to Wynne, population 3,401.

No billionaires. No professional athletes. No celebrities.

In this small town, current events are pondered in mirrors at the local salon or around crowded tables at the diner, and there’s a new couple to gossip about. A rough and tumble woman who works in her dad’s garage, not yet ready to spread her wings, shows the new guy in town what it’s like to finally have roots.

It’s your run-of-the-mill, sexy, Astro van driving dentist meets smart-ass, bass fishing tomboy in a story of real-life romance.

Low on drama. High on love.

Pull up a chair and stay a while.

TBR

Goodreads

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Sinners Creed – Kim Jones

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Melinda's Review

Review

synopsis

 First in a new series—welcome to the Sinner’s Creed Motorcycle Club, where hard bodies and hot leather are made for each other, and love gone wrong is the most irresistible of all…
 
“I was the demon-possessed monster and she was the innocent, naïve angel. But none of that matters. She asks, I give and right now, I’ll kill anyone who tries to stop me from giving this woman what she wants—me.”

Dirk lives in the shadows—performing hits, maintaining order, and upholding the no-holds-barred legacy of the Sinner’s Creed Motorcycle Club. A nomad with a restless spirit and a cold heart, the open road is his world. One of the few constants in his life: his desire for the one woman who has consumed his thoughts for years.

Saylor Samson grew up far from the harshness of Dirk’s world. But ever since she was seventeen she’s been drawn to this dark and mysterious man who always seemed to show up just when she needed him.

After years of fated encounters, he’s back. This time he’s taking her. This time she’s ready for the ride. But just when the darkness in Dirk’s life begins to fade, Saylor reveals a secret that puts them both to the ultimate test. Now, Dirk has to make a decision: submit to his destiny with the MC, or choose his own.

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Goodreads

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Just once – Rebecca Brooke

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Melinda's Review

Review

synopsis

A chance encounter changes everything.

After the loss of his closest friend, and with a scheduled deployment closing in, the last thing Army Ranger Colin Dunham wants is to start any new relationship. But Joey, with her gorgeous eyes and blunt honesty, grabs Colin’s attention from the moment he catches her watching him from across the bar. He knows one night is all they can have. This mysteriously addictive girl ends up taking over every one of his dreams and nightmares, though, crossing the line of another night he’d rather forget.
As dreams become reality, Colin steps in to protect Joey from a threat he never imagined. And when tables turn, it’s Joey who must protect him.
Circumstances are never what they seem.

Can just one night lead them to the other side of heartache?

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Goodreads

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Vagabond Circus Series – Sarah Noffke

(Suspended, Paralyzed, Released)

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Melinda's Review

synopsis

Suspended

When a stranger joins the cast of Vagabond Circus-a circus that is run by Dream Travelers and features real magic-mysterious events start happening. The once orderly grounds of the circus become riddled with hidden threats. And the ringmaster realizes not only are his circus and its magic at risk, but also his very life. Vagabond Circus caters to the skeptics. Without skeptics, it would close its doors. This is because Vagabond Circus runs for two reasons and only two reasons: first and foremost to provide the lost and lonely Dream Travelers a place to be illustrious. And secondly, to show the nonbelievers that there’s still magic in the world. If they believe, then they care, and if they care, then they don’t destroy. They stop the small abuse that day-by-day breaks down humanity’s spirit. If Vagabond Circus makes one skeptic believe in magic, then they halt the cycle, just a little bit. They allow a little more love into this world. That’s Dr. Dave Raydon’s mission. And that’s why this ringmaster recruits. That’s why he directs. That’s why he puts on a show that makes people question their beliefs. He wants the world to believe in magic once again.

Paralyzed

When the worst case scenario befalls the Vagabond Circus, Zuma knows she must ensure it doesn’t fall to doom. Titus’s job is to guarantee the show goes on, while the acrobats seek to avenge and rescue. Jack has no idea that he’s about to levitate himself into a deadly situation, and only Zuma and Finley can save him from a threat unlike what most have ever encountered. In this second whimsical and dark installment of the Vagabond Circus tale, the reader learns just how the ringmaster, Dr. Dave Raydon, rescued everyone in his troupe and also brought love and treasures into their lives. The unveiling of this history only brings more mystery as the true enemy to Vagabond Circus is unveiled. Charles Knight isn’t an evil man with a deadly agenda. He’s the worst kind of human being and he won’t stop until he’s ruined everyone and everything that the ringmaster loves. Paralyzed is an episodic ride that unravels the pieces of this fantasy circus one act at a time.

Released

When a threat so brutal it has the force to rip the magic right out of the world takes over Vagabond Circus, everyone seeks refuge away from the big top. Finley knows he has to protect the circus he’s grown to love, and its people. But to do that he’ll have to further scar his soul. Jack is relentless to take back what was stolen from him, but in the process he becomes someone he never expected. And this acrobat, who once stole the hearts of millions, accidentally steals a heart he didn’t expect. But it is Titus who is most changed by the events at Vagabond Circus. He’s always been the fearful coward, but with a new threat bearing down on his best friend’s circus he knows he has to invent the courage to become a new man. Zuma watches from the sidelines as the people she loves grow in an effort to save one of the most important ventures in the world.

In this final installment to the Vagabond Circus series, deals will be made, futures tampered with, and everyone’s hearts broken. But the question that will keep the troupe of this circus going is precisely the same one that will plague readers. Can Dr. Dave Raydon’s circus be saved? And if it can’t, then is everything around it doomed?

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#WOTR2016 #Review – penance. (Böhme #1) by Sarah Buhl

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synopsis

Demons of past mistakes haunt her. Mistakes of past demons haunt him.

Strangers cross paths every day. Moments are shared with a smile — the opening of a door, a nod of hello, or help with directions. Most don’t listen to that quiet intuition telling them that something different can be found in this stranger. There is connection and understanding in their eyes. There is truth in their smile. There is an entire life waiting to live. What happens if that intuition isn’t ignored and strangers begin to listen?

It happens every day, someone, somewhere, chooses to listen, and love begins.

This is the story of two strangers who made that choice.

Haunted by the passing of her sister and believing she was the catalyst to cause it, Hannah Anderson lives a walking death. Afraid to embrace life and burdened by guilt, she refuses to accept more than just getting through every day. She believes she doesn’t deserve happiness.

Consumed by anxieties and self-depreciation from childhood, Wynn Hawthorne shelters himself from the world. Content to live behind his camera and within the quotes that comfort him, he avoids people. He holds himself back from experiences because people always disappoint.

Together they learn that their pasts do not define them and that forgiveness is the hardest thing in the world to accept.

TBR

Goodreads

Melinda's Review

I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

Wynn and Hannah did not have an easy life both have demons they are hanging onto. Hannah refuses to get close to anyone punishing and blaming herself for the past.  Wynn finds comfort in his art after what he went through as a child. He is not trusting and keeps his distance from others.  I so wanted them to find happiness.

This was slow for me in the beginning and I had to push through to finish but was well written. I didn’t feel I got enough information to fully connect with Wynn and Hannah but enjoyed their story. There is not much dialogue between the characters (and I am a dialogue person, I love communication) but more or what is going on in Wynn and Hannah’s minds.

about the author

Sarah Buhl

Sarah Buhl. Sci-fi expert. Self-professed TV and IMDB guru. Gamer. Dreamer. Mother. Wife. Friend. Author of novels.

#Review – Sinner’s Creed by: Kim Jones

Sinner's Creed (Sinner's Creed MC, #1)

synopsis

First in a new series—welcome to the Sinner’s Creed Motorcycle Club, where hard bodies and hot leather are made for each other, and love gone wrong is the most irresistible of all…
 
“I was the demon-possessed monster and she was the innocent, naïve angel. But none of that matters. She asks, I give and right now, I’ll kill anyone who tries to stop me from giving this woman what she wants—me.”

Dirk lives in the shadows—performing hits, maintaining order, and upholding the no-holds-barred legacy of the Sinner’s Creed Motorcycle Club. A nomad with a restless spirit and a cold heart, the open road is his world. One of the few constants in his life: his desire for the one woman who has consumed his thoughts for years.

Saylor Samson grew up far from the harshness of Dirk’s world. But ever since she was seventeen she’s been drawn to this dark and mysterious man who always seemed to show up just when she needed him.

After years of fated encounters, he’s back. This time he’s taking her. This time she’s ready for the ride. But just when the darkness in Dirk’s life begins to fade, Saylor reveals a secret that puts them both to the ultimate test. Now, Dirk has to make a decision: submit to his destiny with the MC, or choose his own.

TBR

Goodreads

Melinda's Review

Get your tissues ready you will need them. No seriously you will need to have a box of tissues handy. I’m only warning you because I was not prepared when I needed them so here is your one and only warning! Now after telling you that I will tell you this is on my top 5 reads this year. I enjoyed Dirk and Saylor’s story. As in life things do not always work out as you plan sometimes life has other plans for you.

Dirk is a nomad he does what needs to be done for the Club. It’s his life the open road he has no roots no family only his brothers and he doesn’t hang around long enough to let them in. The only one he can really stand is Shady. He was never taught to love and there was no room in the cold heart of his to love anyone or so he thought until he meet a woman he just could not shake. He didn’t know her name but kept finding himself drawn to her helping her when she needed him. Could she be the one to show him how to love and that he could be loved.

Saylor Samson was an angel OK maybe not an angel but she was loved and knew how to love. She lived life to the fullest. Saylor was drawn to Dirk never asked questions only wanted to be with him, love him and in the end show him how to love. They are perfect for one another light and dark and Saylor has the ability to calm him with a touch or look.

I will forever think of Dirk and Saylor when skittles are around what to know why OH NO that is something you will need to read and experience for yourself. I personally loved it in the beginning and cried over it toward the end. I absolutely loved the two sides of Dirk there was the Bad A$$ biker that got business done and then there was Saylor’s Dirk the one that would move mountains for her no matter what, again cue the water works. Saylor what can I say about her no matter what she is facing in her life she finds the positive and focuses on that NO MATTER WHAT. She wants to do something she does it. Saylor loves unconditionally always accepted everyone for who they were and never expected or wanted them to change. The things Saylor and Dirk had to go through had me a blubbering mess at times. I will say one of my favorite scenes was when Dirk had a fit of jealous rage and went a little crazy on Saylor’s BFF Donnawayne let’s just say those tow never became best buddy’s after that episodes.  LOL… Loved the fact that Saylor did not back down or show fear when she was around Dirks brothers. She held her won even had to calm Dirk down at one point. There were so many great parts in this book I cannot possibly talk about them all but I will say the ending broke me and I cannot wait for Sinner’s Revenge I need to know what happens now!

Kim Jones did a fabulous job setting up this new series.

Eat skittles and remember today is Great, and yesterday was even better.

A few of my favorite lines:

We got one shot, Dirk. One fucking shot in this life. Make it count. Don’t be like me and die and old man all alone ‘cause ya think Black beatin’ on ya fucked you up too much to be loved. Let that woman love you. And if you smart, you’ll love her back.”  ~Roach

“Real love is wanting someone to experience the same, deeply powerful feeling that you do. The one that takes your breath at certain moments and speeds your heart at others. And it’s wanting it without any regard to who that person chooses to share it with. That’s the love I have for you, Dirk. And I would give anything in the world for you to feel what I feel. Even if it isn’t for me.”  ~Saylor

“What you feel for me is love. What you felt for Black, that’s love. Your bothers, you love them. Love is all around you, Dirk. It always has been. What you think is respect and loyalty and all that shit-that’s love. Maybe not the way you fell it for me, but you have it for them too.   ~Saylor

“Just as sure as God made little green apples and I’m standing here, I’ll take your fucking ear off if you don’t hear me out.”  ~Shady

“I think I’ve loved you from the first moment I saw you all those years ago. I didn’t know what love was, but you showed me. You saved me, Saylor. You’re more than I ever could have hoped for in this life.”…”I can marry you. I can give you any ring your heart desires. But to me, this means so much more. In my world, Saylor, men like me don’t find women like you. We’re born as rejects, throwaways, and victims of society.  You’ve given men like me hope. You’ve proven that we are capable of love. And in return, I want to give you something that proves my love to you.

“This is not just a token of my love, but my vow to always be your man. I’ll protect you take care of you, and devote my life to making you happy. Saylor Samson, will you do me the honor of being my ol’ lady and wearing my patch?”   ~Dirk

about the author

Kim Jones

Kim Jones is a writer with big dreams. Inspired by her personal experience inside the MC life, she’s chosen to write biker romance stories that are authentic—expressing the true meaning of brotherhood and the lifestyle of motorcycle clubs.

In 2013, Kim began her self-publishing journey. Saving Dallas, her first MC series, is based on the life of an influential president who juggles the pressures of the Devil’s Renegades Motorcycle Club, and the search for true love.

Taking the club life and her career a step further, Berkley will be releasing Sinner’s Creed, her second MC series, in March of 2016—an inside look into the life of a 1%er and his sacrifice for what he believes in.

Kim plans to continue to self-publish off her Saving Dallas series, and has signed a two book deal with Penguin-Random House for Sinner’s Creed. She resides in south Mississippi with her husband, Reggie, two dogs, a cat and a donkey

#WOTR2016 #Review – Catching Whitney by Amy Hale

wotr-attendingauthor

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synopsis

My name is Whitney Dawson, and I suck at love. I’m not exaggerating. My relationships don’t just end; they die a horrible, agonizing death.

With a nasty break up behind me, and my mind made up to avoid relationships like the plague, I try to enjoy a girls’ night out with my best friend Lindsey. That’s where I meet Aidan. Despite my reservations, I agree to one mind-blowing, amazing, curl your toes night with the hottest guy I’ve barely met, knowing full well that I’ll never see him again. Or so I think…

As a teacher with a new school year in full swing, I contact a parent about a new student and end up face to face with Aidan. His son is in my class, and avoiding this widowed dad, and any complicated emotional entanglements falling for him will bring, becomes a test I may very well fail.

Should I take the cowardly way out, or give love one more chance?

TBR

Goodreads

Melinda's Review

I received this book for an honest review.

This was my first time reading an Amy Hale story. I enjoyed getting to know her characters and her writing style. She had me turning the pages and I really liked the characters.

Whitney never had luck with relationships. She had survived a bad break up. Her an her friend Lindsey decided it was time for Whitney to go out and let her hair down and be a free spirit for the night. No holding back find a guy, have a great night then leave and never see him again.  That is what a one night stand was and that is what she did, one night and then back to her single life as a school teacher.

Aiden is a single dad doing his best with his son. When the teacher at the new school Caleb is attending calls wanting to meet to discuss his son well you can imagine his surprise when we walks in and sees who his teacher is.  Yes, that’s right the one and only Whitney the one that left him early one morning no words just snuck out on him after a great night. He has a second chance to catch her this time if he can keep her from running.

Whitney is stunned to see her one night of fun standing in front of her waiting to talk about one of her students. There is chemistry between these two but it is difficult for Whitney to accept because one she was never to see him again and two she cannot date a student’s parent. Can she overcome these and give Aiden a chance.

I so enjoyed Lindsay and Whitney’s relationships and the way Whitney and Aiden were always going back and forth. I loved how caring Whitney was with her kiddo’s and the bond she had with Caleb was great. I really wanted more more Whitney and Aiden and even Lindsey.

about the author

Amy Hale

Amy Hale is a best selling author, mother, and wife living in Illinois. Her husband and kids are the center of her universe, although her cat believes otherwise. She also loves reading, music, and photography.

Amy started her writing career in 2003 with non-fiction and educational pieces, but decided to take the leap to fiction in 2014. Her whiteboard is full of crazy ideas and she’s always plotting new projects. She’s a hopeless romantic and adores all the various ways a love story can be told. Amy also loves mystery, humor, suspense, and other action filled stories, so her goal is to blend the action with romance and keep you on your toes. Learn more at authoramyhale.com

#Review – A Lover’s Lament by: K.L. Grayson and B.T. Urruela

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synopsis

In a matter of seconds my entire world changed, and it was in that moment that I stopped living and simply began to exist.

In my grief, I sent a letter to the first boy I ever loved. I hoped in writing it I’d find some peace from the nightmare I was living, some solace in my anger.

I didn’t expect him to write back. I wasn’t prepared for his words, and I certainly wasn’t ready for the impact this soldier would have on my life. A deep-rooted hate transformed into friendship, and then molded into a love like I’d never known before.

Sergeant Devin Ulysses Clay did what I couldn’t: he put the shattered pieces of my heart back together, restoring my faith in humanity and teaching me how to live again.

But now that I’m whole, I have a decision to make. Do I return to my life as I knew it and the fiancé I left behind, or do I walk away from it all for the only man to ever break my heart?

***

I’ve been living in hell, but you won’t hear me complain.

These men depend on me, as I do them, and this brotherhood is the only family I’ve ever known.

The Army saved me from a callous mother and a life on the wrong side of the tracks that was quickly spiraling out of control. So unlike most of the men in my platoon, going home wasn’t something I longed for.

I was content overseas, spending my days defending this country that gave me my life back. Fighting became my new normal … until her.

A letter from Katie Devora—a letter that I almost didn’t open. Her words put a fire back inside of me that I didn’t know I’d lost. She gave me hope during a time when I was fighting every day just to stay alive, and now it’s time I fight for her.

TBR

Goodreads

Melinda's Review

I read the book as part of the Coming Home Anthology.  I could not pass up a collection of Military books and plus the money went to a good cause. I am enjoying being introduced to authors I have never read before. K.L. Grayson and B.T. Urruela did not disappoint. They did a great job pulling me into the story and made me feel like I was there as everything unfolded and felt every emotion Devon and Katie were going through.

Katie and Devon have been friends since she busted his lip in the first grade. You see Katie was a tomboy and didn’t back down when pushed far enough. Katie and Devon grew up and into each other’s arms. However, their love would not be strong enough to keep them together when his mother moved them 800 miles away from Katie leaving Katie devastated and heartbroken. Devon didn’t want to go but knew he was not the guy for Katie she deserved better in his eyes.

After a life changing event in Katie’s life she found herself staring at a list of solder’s name to write to but the only name she could see was Devon’s the question was does she write him or one of the other solder’s on this sheet.  WELLLLL she not only decided to write to Devon and unload everything that she felt and was going through. What she did not expect was to have Devon write back.  The words these two had for each other were powerful. She had her own life but having Devon back getting a second chance could change her entire world.

The chemistry between Devon and Katie was amazing. To watch them build back trust and learn who each other were now that they were no longer kids just through the letters, emails, and video chats was great. Not only did I enjoy Devon and Katie but seeing the interactions between Devon and/or Katie’s and their best friend Navas, Magie, and even Bailey Katie’s sister interactions was wonderful.  The last chapters and epilogue had me in tears after everything these two had been through now this NO NO NO! Great job and loved the duel POV. Wonderful second chance story you never know how long you have so make the most of what you have with those you love.

My favorite line in the book:

“Love doesn’t have and expiration date, Katie. There is no cookie cutter for it, and there sure as hell aren’t instructions. It just is…”

about the author

K.L. Grayson

K.L. Grayson

K.L. Grayson resides in a small town outside of St. Louis, MO. She is entertained daily by her extraordinary husband, who will forever inspire every good quality she writes in a man. Her entire life rests in the palms of six dirty little hands, and when the day is over and those pint-sized cherubs have been washed and tucked into bed, you can find her typing away furiously on her computer. She has a love for alpha-males, brownies, reading, tattoos, sunglasses, and happy endings…and not particularly in that order.

B.T. Urruella

BT Urruela was an infantryman in the US Army from August 2004 until February 2011. At the end of a year long tour to Baghdad, Iraq, his vehicle was hit by two roadside bombs, which took his right leg below the knee and the life of his commander. He was awarded a Purple Heart for his wounds, an Army Commendation Medal, and Combat Infantryman’s Badge. He medically retired from the Army in 2011 and moved to Tampa, FL where he currently works as a Director and Brand Ambassador for VETSports, a veteran community sports nonprofit he co-founded in 2012. He also conducts motivational speeches, works as a cover and fitness model and he’s a personal performance trainer.
He’s a co-author of the military romance novel A Lover’s Lament and the upcoming romantic thriller and his debut solo novel, Into the Nothing.

#Review – In The Red by Chelsea Camaron

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synopsis

The event that shook one small town to its core was never solved. The domino effect of one person’s crime going unpunished is beyond measure.

He’s no saint.

Dover ‘Collector’ Ragnes rides with only five brothers at his back. Nomads with no place to call home, they never stay in one place too long. Together, they are the Devil’s Due MC, and their only purpose is to serve justice their way for unsolved crimes everywhere they go.

She’s not afraid to call herself a sinner.

Emerson Flint still remembers the loss of her elementary school best friend. She is all grown up, but the memories still haunt her of the missing girl. Surrounding herself with men at the tattoo shop, she never questions her safety. Her life is her art. Her canvas is the skin of others.

However, danger is at her door.

Will Dover overcome the history he shares with Emerson in time? Will Emerson lead him to the retribution he has always sought?

Love, hate, anger, and passion collide as the time comes, and the devil demands his due.

Each book in the Devil’s Due MC is a stand alone, full length novel. Contains adult content, language, and violence not suitable for readers under the age of 18. This is not an exact depiction of life in a motorcycle club, but rather a work of fiction meant to entertain.

TBR

Goodreads

Melinda's Review

I received this book for an honest review.

I am hooked!! Chelsea Camaron did it again I so enjoy her writing style and the way she tells a story. The Nomad Bikers have walked away with my heart. Yes, all of them Collector (Dover) with his driver to bring justice for his sister, Judge the calm one of the bunch, Rowdy is well as you guessed it by his name, X is mysterious to me, Trapper well he is just Trapper, and then there is Deacon who is a man of few words and is has found a place in my heart as one of my new BBF.

The first book of this series is about Collector or Dover Regnes. Collector’s life was turned upside down and inside out one day in a single moment. He has never forgotten the moment he lost his little sister. He along with his brothers, Judge, X, Trapper, Rowdy and Deacon are on a mission to bring justice for his sister and other s along their way.  Until the day all their “leads” brought him face to face with Emerson Flint his sisters BFF.

Emerson better known as Sonnie now lost her best friend and her world was shut off and her parents kept close tabs on her. When she was old enough she left and never looked back but she always remembered Raleigh and yes Dover too. She found a friend who showed her how to use her drawing talent by using her artistic ability and becoming a tattoo artist.

This was so good, held my attention and kept me turning pages until the last word was read. Yes, I read this in one sitting I could not set it down. I loved the tension between Emerson and Dover. Seeing the flash backs to when they were kids was heartbreaking and cute at times. Their relationship truly was that of two magnets spin them one way and they tried to repel spin them around and they are hard to pull apart. The scene where Sonnie and Judge are talking about Dover had to be one of my favorite scenes. Trapper had me cracking up especially when he was getting his Tattoo. The Twist was great I didn’t even see it coming I thought I knew the entire time then NOPE I was off on that. The bonus at the end with Trapper and Avery was awesome I cannot wait to learn more about these two. But up next is X and Hadley oh man I cannot wait to hear this story I have a feeling it is going to be a heart breaker.

about the author

USA Today Bestselling Author Chelsea Camaron was born and raised in Coastal North Carolina. She currently resides in Southern Louisiana with her husband and two children but her heart is always Carolina day dreaming.

Chelsea always wanted to be a writer, but like most of us, let fear of the unknown grab a hold of her dream; she realized that if she was going to tell her daughter to go for her dreams, that it was time to follow her own advice.

Chelsea grew up turning wrenches alongside her father, and from that grew her love for old muscle cars and Harley Davidson motorcycles, which just so happened to inspired her ‘Daddy’s Girls’ series. Her love for reading has sparked a new love for writing and she currently has a few more projects in the works.

When she is not spending her days writing you can find her playing with her kids, attending car shows, going on motorcycle rides on the back of her husband’s Harley, snuggling down with her new favorite book or watching any movie that Vin Diesel might happen to be in.

She hates being serious and is still a big kid at heart. She is a small town country girl enjoying life and, Chelsea hopes that her readers remember not to take life too seriously and to embrace your inner five year old, because five year olds know how to enjoy the simple things in life and how to always have fun.

Connections
Email chelseacamaron@gmail.com

Facebook http://www.facebook.com/authorchelsea…

#Review – Got the Life (Nicki Sosebee, #1) by: Jade C. Jamison

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synopsis

Nicki Sosebee wants her first headline, but she doesn’t want it to read “Reporter found dead.”

Since leaving school years earlier, Nicki Sosebee has long since given up on the notion of The American Dream, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t still have dreams of her own. She realized early on that her college degree isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on, but she also knows that she doesn’t want to work for minimum wage the rest of her life.

She wants MORE.

To get there, she’s been learning the ropes as a novice reporter for her hometown newspaper, but it doesn’t take her long to find out that her naïveté is not doing her any favors. That’s where her best friend Sean Ramsey comes in. He gives her advice when her instincts steer her wrong and he supports her when she needs it.

Oh…and he’s HOT.

She’s had it bad for Sean, ever since The Night eight years ago, the one time they hooked up and had the time of their lives, but she ruined it when she accidentally called him her ex-boyfriend’s name in the heat of passion. And they’ve been friends only—and hands off—ever since.

Nicki’s currently investigating a story that she thinks might result in her first headline. One of Winchester’s bad boys has been locked up for arson, but as Nicki digs deeper, she finds it’s not just a case of trying to set fire to a house…and between being seduced by a bad ass biker and potentially getting caught by the bad guys before she can write that headline, Nicki starts to wonder if she’s really GOT THE LIFE.

TBR

Goodreads

Melinda's Review

I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

So my BFF and Partner in crime has been after me to read about Nicki and “her” Sean forever. Now the day has come and I read the first Nicki Sosebee and now I’m asking myself why did I wait so long? Oh and just to let you know Sean is now mine just saying but we don’t need to let my BFF know this for now.

Nicki Sosebee is a no name reporter who wants to make it big. She goes to the court hearings hoping for that one big break that will do it for her. She wants her article to be the headline one day and she is determined to make it happen. Nicki has no filter says whatever whenever it hits her tongue. Got to love that in a girl! Nicki’s BFF and go to guy is Sean. When things happen in her life she runs to him to share it and when Nicki needs him he is right there to help her. Nicki has had a crush on Sean since high school but ever since the one night that they shale never talk of again Sean has placed Nicki in the “friend zone”.  Although if Sean would ever step over that friend line he created Nicki would be all for that.

I enjoyed getting to know Nicki.  This was a quick read and once I started I couldn’t put it down. The drama and suspense in this had me biting my nails.  I kept thinking at one point how is Nicki going to get herself out of this predicament. Now I need to get Dead to continue the Saga of what is Nicki’s world. I also need to know if there are more feelings hidden deep inside of Sean for Nicki and will he let them out.

about the author

Jade C. Jamison was born and raised in Colorado and has decided she likes it enough to stay forever. Jade’s day job is teaching Creative Writing, but teaching doesn’t stop her from doing a little writing herself.

Unfortunately, there’s no one genre that quite fits her writing. Her work has been labeled romance, erotica, suspense, and women’s fiction, and the latter is probably the safest and closest description. But you’ll see that her writing doesn’t quite fit any of those genres.

You’ll have to discover Jade’s writing for yourself to decide if you like it.

#Review – Unbreakable – (Fallen Aces MC Book 1.5) by Max Henry

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synopsis

The conclusion to King and Elena’s story of a second-chance at love.

TBR

Goodreads

Melinda's Review

I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

This is the conclusion of Elena and King’s story. Man have these two been through enough. When we left King and Elena he told her to hang in there give him some time to get the clubs help to get her out. GASP!! WHAT!! I know I felt the same way NO NO take her with you don’t send her back to the devil but he did then King had to go off on the last run for Carlos when all heck broke loose. Now King has to get her out but how and the things Carlos put Elena through is unthinkable Elena is one of the strongest females I have seen in a long time the things Carlos puts her through physically and emotionally and she comes out stronger on the other side. Not only does she deals with that but with what King puts her through too. Although King thinks he is doing it for the right reasons he is still hurting her but what Elena doesn’t realize is what she is doing is hurting King just as much. Not only is she hurting King but she is hurting his family too.

My heart hurts for these two. I only wished they would have sat down and opened up to each other instead of expecting the other to just blindly know how they felt and understand what they were thinking and feeling. So many years wasted. This did not end neatly wrapped with a pretty little bow there is more to the story and I for one cannot wait for the rest of this story. So many mistakes were made by all involved and feelings were hurt now lives need to start again.

My favorite line:

I want this woman to know that she’s my be all and end all, the reason I chose to fight against what’s wrong in the club.

about the author

Max  Henry

Max is the author of dark, and highly emotional romance. Her Butcher Boys series is centred around a group of men who met living on the street, who have teamed up with an indebted motorcycle club to take down a notorious drug lord. Her writing has been described as ‘gripping’, and ‘addictive’, taking you on an ’emotional roller coaster ride’.

Originally born and bred in New Zealand, Max now resides with her family in beautiful and sunny Queensland, Australia. Life with two young children can be hectic at times, and although she may not write as often as she would like, Max wouldn’t change a thing. When she’s not engrossed in her dark and twisted fictional worlds, she can be found enjoying the outdoors while 4wd-ing with her family.