cathygeha

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

The Boomerang by Robert Bailey

~ What motivates people, businesses, religions, and governments? Is it based on self-interest or concern for others? When does self or the love of one other become more important than the welfare of all? I asked myself some of these questions as I read this book and hoped that I would be more like Mato, or even Nester, than like Raymond and his group. ~

What I liked:

* That it made me think…what if?

* The focus on the current issue of health care, its cost, and the inequality of care availability

* That though most of the characters were flawed and not easy to admire, some still had redeeming qualities that led them to do heroic acts

* Being able to admire some of the characters even though they had done reprehensible things

* Thinking about what motivated the ones holding tightly to “boomerang” and in contrast, what was required of those working to access “boomerang”

* That the story was crafted in a way that I could see it unfolding like a movie playing before me

* That it allowed me to feel with the characters whether fighting for their lives or exulting in good than happened

* Being able to dislike and wish evil karma on more than one character in the book

* The plot, pacing, setting and writing

* It took me awhile to get into the flow of the story but once hooked, couldn’t put it down

* The friendships between Eli & Lionel and between Nester & Dale

* That even though a husband and wife or two had either divorced or grown apart, they still managed to come together to work on a common cause

* The twist at the end

* That there was hope on the last page and wondering what will happen in the future of many of the characters – and wondering if some of the characters might show up in later books

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about the team in charge of boomerang, their warped viewpoint, and what they did to protect something that should have been made available to all

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

BLURB

John Grisham meets Yellowstone in a gripping political thriller by Wall Street Journal bestselling author Robert Bailey, as one man fights for family against a government with a shattering secret. The president of the United States has terminal cancer. Chief of Staff Eli James, his faithful consigliere and best friend, is one of the few who know. But just as the president’s condition mysteriously improves, Eli’s hit with another blow: his daughter has cancer too. Hell-bent on helping her, Eli turns to Big Pharma’s top lobbyist for advice, but their encounter yields more questions than answers. As he races along a twisted trail to the truth, he stumbles upon a devastating cover-up worth billions of dollars—and millions of lives. Armed with this deadly secret, Eli goes rogue, fleeing with his family out west. To keep them safe, he forms an uneasy alliance with land baron Nester “the Beast” Sanchez, known for his ruthless power tactics. An epic showdown brews, and it’s the state versus one desperate citizen, willing to risk everything to save his daughter. Can Eli broker a truce with his once allies? Or will there be war in the desert?

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Axel by Kelly Finley

Belles & Bratva Beasts #2

~  Sizzling, steamy, sensual story with a mafia-not quite mafia feeling vibe ~ Couldn’t put it down ~

What I liked:

* The premise of the series with a riveting backstory that provides the reason for Kings & Queens, the protective vibe, their customs & traditions, and their motivations

* Axel: head of The Kings, one of six brothers, abusive father, survivor, has secrets and also a primal kink, lethal, willing to do what it takes, knew Ruby was his immediately, a bit of a romantic

* Ruby: one of four sisters, epileptic, proud, poor, had an abusive stepfather, protective of her siblings and the underdog, supportive, snarky, runs often, has trust issues, falls for Axel

* That though things like stalking, chasing, and other kinks that Axel has could be threatening in real life – they are not in this story and perfect for the main characters story

* Finding more out about the brothers and other members of the Belles & Beasts and getting and idea of who they may end up with – also – knowing that some that are already together will have their full stories told in books of their own

* The surprise visit by someone from Russia and how that is playing out – curious to see where it ends up

* The diversity and strength of the brothers and their support of one another

* Being able to understand why the bloody bits happen and why they are willing to torture, maim, and kill for a “higher” purpose

* Nadine: Mother, dominatrix, club owner, badly abused by the father of her sons, on a mission to save trafficked and abused women, will have a book of her own, I hope

* The side stories with Loch & Alena, Faye & Roman, and Nick & Zar

* Curiosity about Wilder and his tribe

* The hints of what is yet to come in future books

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like

* The evil of those that the Kings go up against and the evil done by Ruslan, the father of Axel and his brothers

* Having to wait for the next book

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author?

Thank you to the author and Bookfunnel for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

A dark, steamy, mafia romance, sizzling with heat when the stalked … stalks back. AXEL is my hot d*ckhead boss who stalks me. I know. He’s arrogant. Powerful. Evil. But those eyes. So, I stalked him back, and that’s when I discovered… He’s the escaped heir to a criminal empire. A dark prince. The head of a secret society of vigilante mafia kings. I spied on their taboo ex-Bratva rituals. I know their dark secret, how they initiate their queens. And he busted me. Now, Axel says he owns me. He makes me stay with him … or else. Or fall in love with my sinful stalker? Or become the mafia queen to the son of the most dangerous man in the world? Author’s note: AXEL is a standalone, dark, not-mafia-mafia romance set in a world of taboo traditions, biting banter, morally grey heroes in a band of brothers with some heavy themes, and very explicit scenes. This is an 18+, interconnected romance with a guaranteed HEA.

Music Play List:

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

A Deceptive Game Ensues by Sophie Barnes

House of Croft #4

~ Another late night for me ~ Could not put this book down and had to finish before turning the light off after 1am ~ Once again Adrian and Samantha work together assisting the police to find a serial killer ~ Excellent addition to the series ~

What I liked:

* Adrian: strong, resilient, bright, protective, was head of a generational crime syndicate, lives by his personal moral compass, made a deal with the government after being found not guilty of murder, madly in love with his wife Samantha * Samantha: trained with four other girls as covert assets for the government, threatened for leaving the Nightingale project, lethal, protective, would die for Adrein - husband she loves, prefers to be in the midst of things rather than on the sidelines

* Chief Constable Peter Kendrick who had me feeling negative for a few books but is improving & now attracted to Miss Gabriella Hastings

* Miss Gabriella Hastings: youngest daughter of the chief magistrate, bright, sees connections, not easily intimidated, may be interested in Peter Kendrick in the future

* Supporting characters: Murry – valet & more, Isak – orphan taken in by the Crofts, the four women that were close as siblings and raised with Samantha: Melody, Holly, Tara & Hazel * The potential romance between Edward & Melody * The mysteries still in play – wonder who the mastermind who set Adrian’s sister up for death & the truth about Wrengate

* The medical aspects of the story and hearing my father talk about the origin of anesthesia – he was an anesthesiologist as was my brother

* The introduction of Finn O’Leary: he is a negative feeling addition to the series I want to find out about

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* That in spite of the twists and turns, the killers were found and dealt with

What I didn’t like:

* Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about the callous disregard the killers had for their victims and the warped reasoning they used to do what they did

* That it was not easy for people to make a life together if not from the same social status

* Thinking about Harlowe – the spy-trainer – and how cold he is proving to be

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Definitely

Thank you to the author, Netgalley and Booksprout for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

An unexpected menace threatens their newfound freedom… Acquitted of the crime he was accused of, Adrian Croft begins an investigation that could link a duke to his sister's death. But with a fresh series of murders leading straight to Saint George's Hospital, Adrian is torn between his quest for revenge and the need to catch an active killer. For though he may have sworn to yield his power in order to gain a pardon, all bets are off when villains threaten his city. Having proven her unfailing loyalty to her husband, Samantha Croft settles into married life - an idyl that quickly crumbles when she and Adrian get caught up in a new series of murders. As they follow a trail that leads them through subterranean tunnels and to a secret organization, they face another threat too: a ghost from Adrian's past who's about to bring war to their doorstep. -One series, one couple, and the brutal challenges they must face-

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Snow Bound by Hannah Murray

Odyssey #1

~ Second chance romance with a bit of kink ~ Not everyone’s cup of tea but a great escape for me today ~

What I liked: * Anna Goodwin: accountant, hoped for a family vacation, often let down by her mother, accountant, was a member at Odyssey Club but left when Grant ghosted her, has trust issues, attracted to Grant, perfect for and with Grant

* Grant Snow: employed by Hastings Security Company, travels for his job, Dom, member at Odyssey Club, strong, caring, attracted to Anna, good for and with Anna

* The supporting characters that I hope to see again: Anna’s friend Lola (Lawyer) and Grant’s friends - Michael (owns Odyssey Club), Simon (owns Hastings Security), and Zach (employed by Hastings Security)

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing – steamy with some trigger warnings but perfect for this story

* That Grant was responsible, communicated clearly, was careful and caring, and was there for Anna

* That the friends of both main characters were there for them when and if needed

* That emotions became involved even though Grant & Anna were not expecting it

* Wondering what it would be like to be in a s/D relationship…did give me food for thought…

* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like: * Anna’s mother who was distant, selfish, and put herself first

* Having to wait for the next book and wondering who will find their mate next

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review

4-5 Stars

BLURB

Anna Goodwin wasn’t supposed to be spending her first vacation in three years alone in a rented house in Michigan’s snowy Upper Peninsula, but thanks to a series of events outside of her control, that’s what’s happening. Or it was, until her solitude is invaded by the one man she never expected to see again—Grant Snow, the Dom who made plans to play with her eighteen months ago, then ghosted her. Grant is just looking for some rest and home cooking—he didn’t know his mom had rented out her house and fled to sunnier shores. Layering shock on top of surprise, the woman renting it is Anna, the submissive who vanished from the Chicago BDSM club he belongs to last summer before he could make good on the scene they’d planned. She’s mad because she thinks he ghosted her. He’s mad because she won’t let him explain. What else are they going to do but hate-bang it out on top of the kitchen island? Sex with Grant was everything Anna had known it would be: exciting, more than a little wild, and wholly satisfying. But it wasn’t a scene, and it’s a scene she craves. After a year and a half, she doesn’t want to wait any longer—and neither does he. But one scene isn’t nearly enough—for either of them. So they decide that for the next two weeks, while they’re cut off from the rest of the world, they’ll live as Dom and sub. She’ll be under his control, at his beck and call. His. They can do this without catching feelings. Right?

CONTENT WARNINGS

Snow Bound is a BDSM romance with graphic, detailed sex and graphic, detailed play. In addition to what I consider to be BDSM basics (bondage, spanking, deliberate infliction of physical pain for sexual gratification), there is also verbal humiliation, wax play, exhibitionism, very rough sex, and an interrogation scene that includes face slapping and the illusion of violence and non-consent. While all of this is done with the clear and unambiguous consent of all parties involved, some readers might find it uncomfortable. Please take this into account before reading.

Excerpt and buy links on author’s website

AUTHOR BIO

I’m going to keep this short and sweet, because if I don’t, there’ll be eight pages on things like why I hated kindergarten and the time my eighth-grade science teacher caught me with “erotic material” at school.  And we should probably leave that incident in 1988 where it belongs.

Speaking of junior high, that’s when I started reading romance novels. I would save up my allowance to buy them (and on one memorable, never to be repeated occasion, got caught stealing one). My mother was displeased with this; aside from the petty theft, she felt they were beyond my maturity level, and she was probably right. She asked me (and I give her credit for asking instead of demanding) to stop reading them. When I asked her what she’d like me to read instead, she said, “Oh, something like those Judy Blume books would be fine”. Then I brought home Forever and Wifey, and she threw up her hands and said “Read whatever you want.”

Reading led to ideas. Pictures in my head of how I wished a certain book had ended, or how it would’ve been different if the hero had done X instead of Y. When the stories in my head started to edge out the ones I was reading, I decided to start writing them down, and my first book was published in 2004. 

I live in the Pacific Northwest with my husband, our daughter, my best friend and fellow author, Christine Warren, and a ridiculous dog named Agatha. My husband is former Special Forces and an OR nurse, so he gets pressed into service as In-House-Expert for anything related to weapons, tactics, the military, medical issues, and How Dudes Think. Our daughter seems to take after her father. God help us all.

And that, in short, is me. There’s a lot more I could’ve told you, but that’d take up a lot more room on this page. And besides, a girl should maintain some mystery, don’t you think?

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Courier of Death by Cara Devlin

Spencer & Reid #3

~ Love this author, this series, and this book ~ Couldn’t put it down ~  

What I liked: * Leonora “Leo” Spencer: orphaned at nine, lost parents and two siblings, taken in by Uncle Claude and Aunt Flora Feldman, morgue assistant to her uncle, photographic memory, bright, unconventional, puzzle solver, coming to grips with new issues, attracted to Jasper

* Jasper Reid: Detective Inspector, adopted by Chief Superintendent Gregory Reid when young, from the streets, an orphan, bright, educated, intelligent, rule follower, intriguing, has secrets, broke up his courtship with Constance Hayes, attracted to Leo

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing * That the story feels “of the era” and educates while entertaining

* Watching the mystery unfold, the clues and threads to be tugged, the way it all came together at the end with no loose ends left hanging

* The supporting characters that I hope to see again: Nivedita Brooks (Leo’s friend and a Police Matron who loses the man she loves), Roy Lewis (detective sergeant, married with family, works with Jasper), Uncle Claude who works in the morgue and trained Leo and will retire soon

* Being able to understand the motivation of the criminals while also hating what they did

* The underlying mystery of why Leonora’s family was murdered and wanting to know why

* The slow-burn relationship growing between Leonora and Jasper and wanting to watch it develop

* Thinking about what Lonora might do when her work at the morgue ends * Knowing there is another book to look forward to and wondering what will happen next

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about the era and how women’s rights were practically nonexistent

* That the murderer’s motivation for crimes committed was so selfish and harmed so many

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Definitely

Thank you to the author and Bookfunnel for the ARC ~ This is my honest review.

Five Stars

BLURB

Months after a devastating discovery about the murder of her family, Leonora Spencer is still struggling to cope. She has kept her distance from Scotland Yard—and from Detective Inspector Jasper Reid—just as she has vowed to do. But when a bomb kills a young constable outside police headquarters, and a prominent suffragist is wrongly fitted for the crime, Leo is compelled to prove the woman’s innocence—even if it means working with the detective inspector she no longer trusts. Weathering Leo’s silent fury has been more of a hardship than Jasper would care to admit—especially to her. He’s muddled through by putting his head down at the Yard and focusing on his demanding caseload. But when the persistent morgue assistant begins to interfere in another detective’s high-profile inquiry, Jasper is torn between warning her off as he should, or lending a hand. As ties between the bombing and a seemingly unrelated murder case Jasper is investigating begin to emerge, so does a connection to one of London’s most dangerous organized crime syndicates. Leo and Jasper’s hunt for the true mastermind behind the bombing plot has drawn unwanted attention from the East End gang, along with a dire Solving this murder will come with deadly consequences. Courier of Death is the third book in Cara Devlin’s new romantic historical mystery series set in Victorian London. The Spencer & Reid Mysteries are perfect for fans of PBS Masterpiece Mystery’s Miss Scarlet & the Duke, and readers of Irina Shapiro, Andrea Penrose, and C.S. Harris.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Prince of Darkness by Rebecca Zanetti

Dark Protectors #17

~ It was interesting to pick up book seventeen in the Dark Protectors series and find the Kurjans now in alliance with the Realm and to have a Kurjan one of the main characters who finds his eternal mate. Why was interesting? Because for most of the series the Kurjans have been the bad guys and now things have changed. ~

What I liked: * Vero: Paxton’s brother, scientist, warrior, Kurjan, protective, lethal, abused as a child, learns something new about himself, attracted to Lyrica

* Lyrica: human, enhanced, kidnapped by Kurjans but now free, working to improve the lives of human women captured by Kurjans, attracted to Vero

* Finding out what Hope is doing now and how Paxton is coping with being King

* The underlying issue of securing an alliance between the Kurjans and the breakaway Cysts (spiritual leaders and warriors) within a specific timeframe

* Thinking about what it might be like for a human to become immortal and live forever with the same partner…would they keep in step with time or remain anchored to the original time of birth

* The mystery of who was killing human women and how it was solved

* The world building that has taken place throughout the series and returning to this imagined place

* Watching the relationship develop between Vero and Lyrica

* The medical issue that had to be solved and what might have  caused it.

* Thinking about whether Jonathan or another Kurjan might end up with Hope and Paxton’s friend, Libby

* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like: * The serial killer who was so callous

* The misguided group that called themselves The Defenders

* Knowing that though this is fiction there are too many humans that like to do evil things

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley a nd Kensington Books – Lyrical for the ARC- This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

BLURB

Unknown to humans, beyond daylight lies a world of intoxicating darkness where deadly creatures prowl with insatiable desires and unbelievable power: vampires, demons, witches, shifters. When vulnerable humans find themselves thrust into that realm, they’ll never be the same. . . In the aftermath of war, a fragile peace hovers between the Kurjan nation and the Dark Protector coalition. Yet amid labyrinthine politics and intrigue, Vero Phoenix, a Kurjan, stands apart. He has lived devoid of legacy or lineage—until the day he backed his newly found brother as king, putting himself into the treacherous position of enforcer and shield. Yet there is another thorn in his side, no less vexing, undeniably captivating—and all-too-human . . . Lyrica Graves was once ensnared by Kurjan captors and now embodies defiance and freedom as she guides other women to independence and modernity. She is particularly amused—and breathtakingly fearful—by her tangles with Vero. But their clashing also belies a sizzling connection, a dark attraction between supernatural and fully human that threatens their chosen destinies and makes them a target for far too many enemies . . .

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

An Unquiet Peace by Shaina Steinberg

A Bishop & Gallagher Mystery #2

As I began reading this book I felt as if I had returned to the era of Hollywood’s black and white “noir movie” period. I was able to seamlessly find out how Nick & Evelyn were moving on after the war.

What I liked: * Evelyn Bishop: president of Bishop Aeronautics, wealthy, privileged, raised in Los Angeles, multi-lingual, lethal, good friend, supportive, feminist of sorts, intelligent, engaged to Nick, trying to move on from the war

* Nick Gallagher: private investigator, engaged to Evelyn, poor as a child, abusive parents, abandoned as a preteen, survived on the streets, grew up in Los Angeles, wants to establish the loving family he never experienced, good friend, excellent investigator

* Carl Santos: member of the OSS team Evelyn and Nick belonged to, ex-LAPD officer, FBI agent, good friend, intuitive, bright, mediator, intriguing

* Aunt Taffy: Evelyn’s aunt, moved to be with and help Evelyn plan the wedding, socialite, organized

* Investigations that Nick and Evelyn were involved in and all that happened during them * Helen: friend of Nick from his teens, businesswoman, strong, cares for her employees, intriguing

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing – I felt I was part of the story and cared about the outcome

* That there are people I would like to see again and hope to know more about in future books

* That it was realistic and dealt with the difficulties faced post-war

* That I was reminded of my childhood growing up in Los Angeles and thinking about my parents who were married just after WWII

* That the threads were all tied up at the end AND that there is another book to look forward to

What I didn’t like:

* Who and what I was meant not to like

* The way war warped one character and the harm he did others

* The kidnapper and his entitled thinking and evil actions

* Thinking about war…have been through a few myself…

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

Mr. and Mrs. Smith meets Code Name Verity in this propulsive, quick-witted mystery set in late-1940s Los Angeles, as former WWII spy Evelyn Bishop and LA noir detective Nick Gallagher team up as an unconventional duo . . . As an undercover operative for the Office of Strategic Services during World War II, Evelyn Bishop routinely embarked on deadly missions. By contrast, civilian life should be simple. Yet Evelyn, now back in Los Angeles, struggles with the responsibility of being the new president of Bishop Aeronautics, when people see her as nothing more than a beautiful socialite.   With Nick Gallagher, at least, Evelyn can be entirely herself. Once a fellow spy, now her fiancé, Nick works as a private investigator. But the mission that first brought them together is not entirely over. Evelyn receives a call from her former commanding officer, who is overseeing the Berlin Airlift. He is concerned that the Soviets are trying to recruit Kurt Vogel, a scientist Evelyn and Nick smuggled out of Nazi Germany. After six long years, there’s word his wife and daughter may have survived the war. Is this a chance for a long-promised reunion, or a Russian ploy to lure Vogel to their side?   Past and present collide again when a routine case offers Nick a reunion with a childhood friend who runs a high-class “gentleman’s club.” The clientele includes everyone from Hollywood royalty to mobsters—to a hidden enemy who will draw both Evelyn and Nick into a web as twisted and treacherous as any they have ever faced . . .

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

The Devil’s Cut by Andrew James Greig

Detective Corstorphine #2

~ Fascinating immersive story that swept me up and carried me along as I eagerly waited to find out how all the puzzle pieces would fit together to solve this complicated tale of brutality and murder ~

What I liked: * DI Jim Corstorphine: widow, still feels his wife’s presence at times, strong leader, cares about and utilizes staff to their best potential, focused, a bit lonely, might have met a love interest

* Getting to know Corstorphine’s team better as they work together ~ fun to watch the team develop

* That I was quickly immersed in the store from page one * The complexity of the case with its twists and turns as the clues were found

* Thinking about the volunteer mountain rescue team and their difficult job

* The complexity of the case and how all of the pieces of the puzzle were finally found and slotted in place

* That the characters had depth and I felt I got to know them well by the end of the book

* Shamilla Mallick: forensic psychologist, consultant, strong, intelligent, uncovered issues that needed to be dealt with, possible love interest

* The complexity of the McCoach family dynamics and finding out why they were targeted and by whom

* That I didn’t really KNOW for sure what was what till the end * That I have been to Scotland so could visualize the setting  

* That no loose strings were left dangling

* Knowing that there will be another book in the series

What I didn’t like:

* Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about how cold the McCabe Matriarch was

* Knowing that there are people as evil in the world as some in this book

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

Blurb

From the author of Whirligig: Longlisted for the CWA JOHN CREASEY NEW BLOOD DAGGER AWARD 2020 and shortlisted for the 2020 BLOODY SCOTLAND MCILVANNEY PRIZE comes the second in the series, The Devil’s Cut. When a distillery owner’s body is discovered on top of a remote Scottish mountain, forensics confirm that he died of natural causes. DI Corstophine’s concerns are raised, however when the dead man’s eccentric sister receives a message, apparently from beyond the grave. The police are dismissive until it appears the devil himself is intent on attacking other family members. Why is his daughter kept locked and sedated in her room in the baronial mansion? Who or what is stalking his son as he scatters his father’s ashes on lonely summits? And what insanity is behind the horrific attacks in their small Highland town? DI Corstophine and his team don’t know what they’re really facing until it’s too late. The Devil’s Cut is an exploration of what constitutes sanity and how delicate that state really is; how such a perfect emotion as love can completely destroy a man.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

The Backwater by Vikki Wakefield

~ Intense, compelling, and immersive story that had me asking myself what I would have done if in the shoes of characters in this book. ~

What I liked:

* Sabine Kelly: admired her grit and determination, pragmatic, strong, loved her sister, mother an addict, difficult childhood, has trust issues, loves Ryan, deserves a break

* Ryan Franklin: works in the mines, protective, loving, kind, grew up with loving family, knew what he wanted when he met Sabine, honest, loyal, there for and loves Sabine

* Rachel Weidermann: divorced, mother of grown children, freelance journalist, wants to write a big story, known for her integrity, wants to interview Sabine and find out the truth

* Blue: Sabine’s dog, getting older, strong, protective, supportive, there for Sabine

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* The way the truth about the Trailer Park Murders was shared and how compelling it was

* Learning more about Sabine’s backstory and realizing how strong she really was

* Thinking about morals, shades of gray, truth, vengeance, right and wrong…a lot to contemplate  

* That Ray, Sabine’s grandfather, was there for her and supportive even though there were aspects of him that I didn’t like at all

* The ending and the way it left me hopeful

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like

* The murderer and accomplice

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Yes

Thank you to NetGally and Sourcebooks-Poisoned Pen for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

The Kelly family has always been trouble When a fire in a remote trailer park community kills nine people, including 17-year-old Sabine Kelly's mother and sister, Sabine confesses to the murders. Shortly after, she escapes custody, flees her broken hometown, and disappears into the thick forest and winding backwaters of her childhood refuge, the river. Recently let go from marriage, motherhood and her career, journalist Rachel Weidermann has long suspected Sabine made her way back to the river—and now, twelve years after the "Trailer Park Murders," she has the time and the tenacity to corner a fugitive and land the story of the year, hoping the success would allow her to stitch back together the ragged edges of her life. But Rachel's ambition lights the fuse leading to a brutal chain of events, and the web Sabine weaves will force Rachel to question everything she believes. As forceful and unrelenting as the river that drives its story, The Backwater is a stunning, suspenseful novel about class, corruption, truth, and justice by a powerful new voice in crime fiction.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

All Knight Long by Giovanna Siniscalchi

A Wanton Wallflower Escapade

~  ~Rollicking good fun ~ Great escape ~ Realistic? Not so much ~

Wanton Wallflower is in scientific pursuit of disproving that time travel exists when she suddenly finds herself landing in the past, on the run, and then saved by a knight in shining armor. What a fun spoof of a historical time travel story this was and a great way to spend my before sleeping and dreaming of…a bit of time travel, perchance? Smiling as I write this.

4 Stars

BLURB

Accused of witchcraft. Rescued by a knight. Ravished in a bathtub.Wanton Wallflower thought time-traveling to the Middle Ages would be charming. It is not. She’s nearly burned at the stake, forced to choose a champion for trial by combat, and ends up in the arms of a hulking silver-armored knight with a secret tattoo and a very distracting sword… in both senses. Now trapped in a keep full of lusty tension and no plumbing, Wanton must decipher the spell to return to her time—tattooed on the one part of the knight she really shouldn’t be staring at. Featuring one heroic bath, one scandalous riddle, and enough heat to make a nun faint, this is a hilarious romp through time. Prepare your smelling salts. History just got manhandled.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Taken by the Alien Triton King by Robin O’Connor

Did you ever dream you could breathe underwater? I did, and I thought that dream was perhaps equal to the times I dreamed I was flying.

This author always provides me with an escape the mundane sweeping me off to another one where humans fall in love with alien fated mates. I put myself into the scene and am usually thinking about “what if it were me?” as I read.

Samantha, an exobiologist, studies alien flora and fauna who will find that her knowledge and skills will be valuable on plant Sanot. She will become the mate of a king and will find her purpose in life. She will also live my dream of being able to breathe under and move smoothly through water. The alien king that claims, Kaerius, is able to shift between a fishy body and a more human one but in either form he knows that Samantha is his. There are a few issues the couple must deal with that include jealousy, political intrigue, and deadly underwater killers;  and they do so decidedly before settling in for their happily ever after.

The USS Legacy that landed with Samantha and others on board are searching for a safe place to settle and it seems there are more books by a number of other authors that have stories to tell of these women finding their fated mates, too.

Thank you to the author and BookFunnel for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

BLURB

One minute, I am studying alien plants. The next, I am thrown over the shoulder of a blue-scaled king who refuses to let me go. Samantha: Landing on planet Sanos was supposed to secure humanity’s future. Instead, it became a fight for survival. One moment, I was studying alien plants—then explosions shattered our negotiations. Before I could react, a towering, scaled warrior threw me over his shoulder and carried me into the ocean’s depths. Kaerius, King of the Ondrithar, is as infuriating as he is mesmerizing. He calls me “mate” like it’s already decided, like I belong to him. But I refuse to be anyone’s captive. If I want to survive, I’ll have to fight—whether that means escaping or standing at his side. Kaerius: I had no use for the humans—until I saw her. From the moment I laid eyes on Samantha, instincts older than reason roared to life. She is mine. She just doesn’t know it yet. I saved her from the attack, bringing her to my kingdom, where my word is law. But Sanos is dangerous, and my enemies watch my every move. Keeping her safe means keeping her close. And if she tries to run? She’ll learn nothing escapes the grasp of the Triton King. This spicy sci-fi romance is part of the Abducted by the Ruthless Planet Sanos series and can be read as a standalone. It features one ruthless Triton king and a curious human scientist. Guaranteed HEA!

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

True Fate by Tracy Sumner

True Men #1 [novella]

Smiles for miles as I think about this delightful second chance romance that swept me up and carried me through to the end on an emotional ride that had me watching a perfect reconnection between two high school sweethearts that were parted too soon. I loved Justin and Lainey and was so happy they found their way back to one another again.

What I liked: * Lainey Prescott: psychologist, a bit burned out, returned to upgrade her family home, single, has never forgotten Justin True – her high school boyfriend that was possibly her soul mate

* Justin True: artist, architect, art gallery owner, wealthy, loving brother, debating his future and might be ready for a change, never forgot Lainey from HS and wonders if she was his soul mate

* The meeting of Justin and Lainey when both are back in Promise, NC at the same and run into one another thirteen years after they parted

* The chemistry between the main characters

* The mature honest communication between Lainey and Justin in and out of the bedroom

* Meeting Fontana Quinn who will be a lead character in True Dreams, second book in this series

* Learning the names and professions of the True Men who will star in the rest of the books in this series

* Thinking about “the ones that got away” though mine were in the 70’s and not the 90’s ;)

* Reading a contemporary romance by this author that I’ve only read historical romance from before

* The playlist songs although I couldn’t listen and read as I was swept into the music

* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like:

* Thinking about the thirteen years the couple was apart although the two might not have made it as a couple if they had stayed together right out of HS.

* Having to wait for the next book

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to the author and Book Sirens for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

Fall in love like it’s 1995. From USA Today bestselling author of The Duchess Society series comes a sexy small-town romance about going home, making peace with the past—and falling hard all over again. If you love Sweet Home Alabama, unforgettable first loves, and a hero who never stopped yearning, this '90s second-chance short romance is for you. Lainey Prescott swore she’d never come back to Promise, South Carolina. But a cheating ex, a tanked career, and one too many sleepless nights send her packing for the only place that still feels like home. Sort of. She’s not expecting to run into Justin True—first love, worst goodbye, and the man who ruined her for all others. Now he’s all grown up, a successful architect, dangerously steady, sexy, and entirely off-limits. Thirteen years ago, she pushed him away, and he walked, taking her heart with him. Now she’s back. And that slow-burn chemistry? Still hot enough to torch every bridge she thought she'd burned. One small town. One unforgettable summer. One shot to finally get it right. TRUE MEN Series Book 1/ True Fate (Justin) Book 2: True Dreams (Campbell) Book 3: True Ruin (Dallas) Book 4: True Burn (Ransom)

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Lonely is the Night by Robin Jeffrey

The Night #3

~ Action-packed, fast-paced, sizzling story from beginning to end ~ Couldn’t put it down ~

What I liked:

* That my wish came true and Caleb Beck is the main male character of his own book

* Caleb Beck: werewolf, ancient, rogue, loner, denless, mercenary, lethal, tired, on a quest for “the cure” to lycanthropy, intriguing, attracted to Violet

* Violet “Vi” Langdon: werewolf, manager of the Crescent Casino for Aces, turned over half-decade previously, insecure, threatened, intriguing backstory, rather attracted to Caleb

* The chemistry between Caleb & Vi and watching their relationship develop knowing that they are perfect with and for one another

* Saint: human, androgynous, protective, head of security at Crescent Casino, owes Violet a debt, good friend, hope this character ends up as a main character in a future book

* Dona Sangre’s farewell gift to Caleb that sent him to Las Vegas and what happens next

* That werewolves are strong, heal, and are similar to other books of the genre BUT they also suffer quite a bit each time they shift – perhaps not all want to live forever

* That I was able to dislike the bad guys – and that some of them were thwarted

* That the werewolves were nearly immortal BUT they still could be injured and require care – would like to see more of the werewolves in stories as they are presented in this series

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* The way the book ends and wondering if perhaps there is another book to look forward to in the series.

What I didn’t like:

* Will Deacon: the alpha’s son, entitled, psychotic, ruthless, sadist(?), selfish, grasping, obsessed, annoying

* Thinking about a time when werewolves hunted and killed humans for food and sport

* Not knowing if this is the last book in the series or if there will (hopefully) be another one

Did I enjoy this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Yes

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review

5 Stars

BLURB

Werewolf-for-hire Caleb Beck came to Las Vegas chasing tales of a cure. But it may cost him more than he’s willing to lose - at least it will if Vi Langdon, head of the gambling arm of the Aces den, has anything to do with it. All Caleb has to do is keep Vi safe, and he’ll earn the cure he's desired for so long. Of course, it’s possible he may find something even more valuable in the cards…

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Duty Unbound by Dominic Pierce

Citadel Solutions #1

~ Excellent introduction to the Citadel Solutions Series written by a new-to-me author ~ Immediately impressed and soon immersed in the story ~ Would gladly read this author again ~

What I liked: * Melanie “Mel” Rivers:  younger sister to a pop star, Nova’s manager and problem solver, trying to fulfill her mother’s dream for Nova, painter, put her dreams on hold, attracted to Ethan

* Ethan Cross: ex-military, security specialist, leader, strong, lethal skills, team player, professional, good friend, tactful, protective, loves his family, attracted to Mel

* The team that will show up (I hope) in future books: Tyler Hughes, Logan Kane, and Jace Monroe ~ each has skills that support and enhance those of the others

* Nova Rivers: rising star in the international Pop music scene, energetic, self-centered, a bit of a diva, demanding, rude, irritating…but she grew on me when her true colors emerged

* Ethan’s parents and their lifestyle

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing

* That I could see Ethan and Melanie living and loving happily forever

* That the danger the team was called in to thwart was handled and dealt with efficiently as the team protected Nova and her team

* The bodyguard trope with the twist that the love interest is not the one being guarded.

* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like

* The impact duty had on the main characters and the way it impacted their lives

* Thinking about stalkers, overzealous fans, obsession, the way duty can be twisted, and the way some people put fame before family or much of anything else

* Having to wait for the next book

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Yes

Thank you to the author for the ARC ~ This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

Duty was supposed to be simple—until she walked into his mission. Ethan Cross doesn’t get emotionally involved. As the head of Citadel Solutions, he handles high-stakes security with military precision and zero distractions. Protecting international pop star Nova Rivers from a dangerous stalker? Just another job. Until he meets her sister. Melanie Rivers is the quiet force behind Nova’s chaotic empire—efficient, invisible, and utterly selfless. She’s spent her life in the shadows, sacrificing her dreams to hold her family together. But Ethan notices what no one else does—the way she shoulders everyone’s burdens without complaint, the quiet fire burning beneath her calm exterior. She’s not the client. She’s not part of the mission. Yet the longer he’s near her, the harder it gets to remember the lines he swore he’d never cross. But in an industry full of secrets, danger lurks closer than anyone suspects. And one wrong move could cost them everything. He was hired to keep one woman safe… but the one he can’t stop thinking about might be the one who brings him to his knees.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

Midnight Enemy by Serenity Woods

The Midnight Billionaires Club #1

~ Capulets & Montagues? Nope…but the Cavendish & Stone patriarchs definitely have that hate-feud vibe that spilled over onto Scarlett Blake and Oliver Cavendish. Opposites in so many ways but with chemistry aplenty, this couple definitely deserves a happily ever after. ~

What I liked:

* Scarlett: older sister to Ana, recently lost both parents, raised on a commune started by her father, positive outlook, provides classes for abused staying at the retreat, naïve but learns and grows a lot, open, caring, gives freely, attracted to Orson but doesn’t see how it can work

* Orson: business owner, financial guru, grew up wealthy but created his own wealth, good friend, bright, entitled, generous, caring, philanthropic, learns and grows a lot, attracted to Scarlett,

* Watching like a fly on the wall as Scarlett and Orson move from antagonism, to opening up, to sharing, and then caring

* Ana: Scarlett’s sister: more open than her sister and in some ways more mature, caring, kind, wonder if she will find a billionaire

* George: one of the commune elders in charge of money, good man, selfless, wise

* Getting to see some of the people from previous books by this author

* Spencer Cavendish: Orson’s father, self-made wealthy man, has depths, intriguing, glad to see he will have a book of his own

* Kingi: Orson’s friend and business partner, brilliant, someone I hope will star in a book

* Marama: Kingi’s sister, artist, traveling and studying art, may have show soon, like her and know she will be in a book soon, too.

* Bearcub: both of them ;)

* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing that drew me in, made me care, and read avidly from beginning to end

* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like: * The impact the feud between Spencer and Blake had on both of them and the fallout from it onto those around them

* The reason Amira, Scarlett’s mother, died and wondering if she could have had longer

* On the fence about Orson’s mother but she didn’t strike me as a person I would want as a mother or friend

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Definitely

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

Our families have been enemies for thirty years. So why do I want Scarlett Stone more than the air I breathe? Scarlett and I couldn’t be more different. I’m 6’2” and big all over (so I’ve been told). She’s tiny. Like a hobbit without the hairy feet. I’m a billionaire who owns a city penthouse and buys Italian suits in Milan. She lives in a commune and wears real flowers in her hair. I’m university educated, well traveled, and experienced. Scarlett has spent her life surrounded by crackpot hippies, yet there’s an innocence about her that makes my pulse pound. Our fathers hated each other. And now she despises me because I want to commercialize the healing pool between our lands that she thinks is sacred. She drives me crazy. But I can’t stop thinking about her. I’m set on having the land, and just as determined to have her. And I always get what I want.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

The Duke’s Dream by Giovanna Siniscalchi

The Swans of Paris #1

~ Lyrical, lovely, intensely moving romance that drew me in, made me care, and had me hoping for a happy ending ~ Couldn’t put it down ~

What I liked: * Helene de Beaumont: ballet dancer, immigrated to England from France, focused, determined, dreams of being prima ballerina, caring, kind, admirable, attracted to William

* William Harcourt, Duke of Albermarle: socially and politically powerful, entitled, controlled, rigid views, unlikeable at first but grew on me as the story progressed, attracted to Helene

* Celeste and Louise: came to England with Helen and others, dancers, individuals with interesting stories to be told

* Baines: William’s valet, older, kind, admirable, supportive

* Elias Farley: journalist, liberal, a thorn in the side of those who want the status quo, would like to find out how his life progresses

* Cavendish: William’s friend, a bit of a hedonist, think he has depths to explore, hope to see him again

* Montford: master spy, ruthless, strong, influential, lethal, has a secret William would love to know another character I would like to know more about

* Wanting to know more about William’s brother and sister and about Helene’s brother

* The references to music and dance, the interplay between the two, and how both were woven into the story

* Learning more about ballet terms and positions

* That William and Helene were perfect for and with one another

* Reading and enjoying the work of a new-to-me author

* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant not to like

* Thinking about how difficult it must have been to live in the closet knowing what could happen if exposed

* Thinking about war, social disparities, expectations, and all the rest ~ Glad I did not live then

Did I enjoy this book? Yes

Would I read more by this author? Definitely

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

Helene de Beaumont, a French émigrée in Regency London, is poised to become the star of Sir Walter Scott’s new ballet, La Sylphide. With flawless technique and a self-taught mastery of dancing en pointe, her dreams of ballet glory are finally within reach. But when she captures the attention of William Harcourt, the powerful and enigmatic Duke of Albemarle—known in political circles as the Silent Sovereign—everything changes. He’s spent years haunted by the image of a sprite glimpsed only in restless dreams—graceful, untouchable, and maddeningly out of reach. Now she stands before him on stage: Helene. And the moment he sees her, he knows one thing with certainty—he must have her. As fascination turns to obsession, Helene is swept into a dangerous waltz of power, passion, and surrender. In a season glittering with promise and peril, she must choose between the life she’s fought for… or the man who could unravel it all with a single touch. A steamy historical romance with high stakes and heart. Perfect for lovers of forbidden romance, brooding dukes, and heroines who rise from the shadows to claim center stage.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

The Guest Cottage by Lori Foster

Firefly Summer #1

~ From a rainy funeral to bright days and firefly nights, this book was a deligiht from beginning to end ~

What I liked: * Marlow Heddings: widowed before finalizing divorce, bright, wealthy, talented, friendly, generous, looks for the best in situations, hard worker, kind, finding herself after a decade of losing a bit more of herself every year, attracted to Cort

* Cort Easton: ex-Marine, handyman, loving supportive son, misses his mother, considered hero of Bramble, generous, man of few words, strong, lethal, protective, difficult childhood, survivor, attracted to Marlow

* The open, hones,t mature communication between Marlow and Cort and the development of their relationship

* Bramble: a small town with a big heart filled with a close community

* Pixie Nolan: single parent, young, has no family, wants what is best for her 3-month-old Andy, willing to take a longshot by contacting the last person who should be willing to help her

* Herman: owner of the local pub, hires Marlow to work in the bar, a good man, knows all the gossip

* Remembering fireflies of my childhood and spending time by a lake

* What happened when Pixie showed up and how it all played out

* The way the situation with the Hedding matriarch and her husband worked out…eventually

* Knowing that there is another book in the series to look forward to

What I didn’t like: * Dylan Hedding: Selfish, spoiled, abusive, the way he treated Marlow and Pixie, wasn’t upset Karma did him in

* Sandra & Aston Hedding: wealthy, entitled, obnoxious, selfish, focused on social standing, unable to see their son’s faults, difficult to like

* What Cort, his mother, Marlow, and Pixie endured at times in their lives

* Having to wait for the next book

Did I like this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Definitely

Thank you to the author, Kensington Books, and NetGalley for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

BLURB

In this uplifting series debut, forgiveness and unlikely friendship blossom in the haven of a quiet lakeside town when two very different women bond over one man’s betrayals. Marlow Heddings is starting over. She’s carried the outrage of her husband Dylan’s affair with a younger woman—and the expectations of his family’s powerful Chicago holdings company—long enough. Now, after another devastating twist of fate, she’s unapologetically moving on. Arriving in tiny Bramble, Kentucky, Marlow revels in her freedom, swapping her executive suits for sundresses . . . and scouting places to open her dream boutique. Best of all is her new residence, an adorable cottage with gorgeous lake views—and a breathtaking landlord, former Marine Cort Easton. Soon they’re sharing dockside morning coffee and nighttime firefly gazing. Marlow’s new life feels like a dream. Then Pixie Nolan arrives on her doorstep. With a shocking secret. To Marlow’s astonishment, Dylan’s “other woman” is a desperate girl of nineteen, destitute, exhausted, and disowned by her family. Defying her manipulative in-laws’ demands, and surprising even herself, Marlow vows to lay down roots in Bramble and help Pixie get on her feet. Then they’ll part ways. But empathy has a way of forging bonds. As Marlow grows close to the hard-working, devoted young woman, she becomes something of a big sister to Pixie. Now, with each sunrise, Marlow awakens to the life she was truly meant to live, one filled with deepening connections, supportive friendship . . . and even a second chance at love.