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BOOK REVIEW: Getting Hot with the Scot by Melonie Johnson

Don’t let the title fool you, this was more RomCom than bodice ripper. Although, the main character (Cassie) does love herself a good bodice ripper, especially ones involving men in kilts. Hmmmmm……

This was actually a fast and fun read. Five women made a pact while they were in college: five years after they graduated from college, they would travel to five European countries, with each of them picking a country to visit.

The premise is fun, the opening chapter is hysterical, and the story flows quick and easy. The conflict between Logan (said “hot Scot”) and Cassie is legitimate and makes sense – there is no melodrama or false indignation to be found, and their chemistry is off the charts.

The dialogue is witty, and the interplay between the five women is especially well-done. The author did a fantastic job of making this reader feel like she was in the middle of the fun and didn’t want it to end.

I thought the descriptions of Scotland, particularly Logan’s family and home, were especially detailed, and painted complete pictures. It definitely made me want to return to Scotland!

The only thing I didn’t completely have a feeling for was Logan’s internal struggle. It was alluded to in the first part of the book, but then took center stage in the second half. It felt a little bit forced, even though it logistically made sense for the character. In retrospect, I understand why the author chose to write it this way (because the book gets a little more serious, so the characters do as well). It just was a little jarring.

All of that being said, I still enjoyed it immensely. I now know this is the first of at least three books, and I’m assuming two more will be coming to round out the five women. I can’t wait to read the rest of them!

My Goodreads review is below.

Expected Release Date: April 30, 2019

Getting Hot with the Scot (Sometimes in Love, #1)Getting Hot with the Scot by Melonie Johnson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was a lot of fun to read. I appreciated that the author gave the reader just enough background to make the main characters, Logan and Cassie, believable – but without going over the top with backstory. The opening chapter was terrific and had me wondering if I misjudged what the book was about (but in a good way). The author did a fantastic job of tying that chapter closely to Cassie’s reading choices. The dialogue was snappy, especially between the group of friends, and I could practically feel the camaraderie spill off the page. I wanted to hang out with them. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and devoured the book in a day. I look forward to reading about each of the girl’s experiences (I hope!) Check out my more detailed review on firefliesandfreekicks.com. This review was written based on a pre-release ARC provided by NetGalley.

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BOOK REVIEW: Stay With Me

I have recently begun to enjoy second chance romances. Maybe it has something to do with spring finally arriving, and that whole re-birth/new hope attitude that comes along with it.

Stay With Me by K.L. Grayson is a well-written novel in this genre. The prologue introduces us to Allie and Jackson when they are teenagers, facing some big decisions. The rest of the story takes place eight years later (except for a couple of flashback memories) as the two try to find their way with each other again.

The plot is very straightforward without the usual back and forth/self-doubt of the characters. It also has depth, as the events that separated Allie and Jackson are realistic and heartwrenching. The doubts that do arise come from those events, and seem completely natural.

I think that’s what I appreciated the most about this book. The characters deal with real life events instead of exaggerated or far-fetched roadblocks that so often pop up in romance novels.

I don’t give away plot points, so I don’t want to say more about character introductions or interactions. I do hope that if you’re looking for a pleasant, HEA, second chance romance, that you will pick this one up. My Goodreads review is below.

Expected Release Date: April 23, 2019

Stay with MeStay with Me by K.L. Grayson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a sweet second chance romance that had some unexpected depth to it. Allie and Jackson are teenagers in love, but life choices force them apart. Eight years later, they get the opportunity to try again. The characters were real, the plot was interesting, and there were more than a few unexpected occurrences. I liked how the author thought out the repercussions of the choices of some of the characters. There was no melodrama (as sometimes happens in romance novels); every incident had meaning and purpose. I also appreciated how the author avoided the usual “should we or shouldn’t we” and allowed the characters’ doubts to be natural. Nothing felt forced. Oh, and Mason is the cutest book kid I’ve “met” in a long time. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it, especially if you’re looking for a quick HEA read. This review was written based on a pre-lease copy.

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BOOK REVIEW: The Mother-in-Law by Sally Hepworth

When it comes to thrillers, there are several sub-genres: psychological, mystery, horror, etc. I usually go for psychological thrillers, because I like seeing if I can guess the twists, or predict the plot (I’m successful sometimes). The Mother-in-Law by Sally Hepworth is more of a mystery thriller, although there is a touch of psychological in there as well.

The plot is laid out in both flashbacks and current time, as well as alternating viewpoints in the flashbacks. The author handles the switching back and forth with ease, and I never felt lost as to when I was or whose perspective I was reading.

The characters are very well-written. It seemed at the beginning that the story would be more along the lines of The Other Woman by Sandie Jones (new wife wants to bond with the mother-in-law, who is resistant to all attempts), but it quickly became apparent that there is a lot more going on with the two main characters that it initially appears.

Diana (the mother-in-law) is a strong character. The author does an excellent job of allowing the reader to discover her motivations without being smacked in the face with examples. In other words, the reader is allowed to draw conclusions based on events, rather than the author simply stating a character trait. I appreciate when an author does this because it allows me to become more invested in the story.

Lucy (the daughter-in-law) is also more complex than the reader is initially led to believe. The relationship between her and Diana takes many turns as they each discover new things about each other. Through these experiences, the reader also gains understanding of major plot points.

(Because it is a mystery, I’m not going to go any further than that in my analysis. Suffice to say that the plot did have enough twists and turns that I was constantly kept off balance. I loved it).

I did want to add, however, that the author handles the descriptions of a debilitating disease with accuracy and poignancy. My father passed away just about two years ago after a nine year battle with a little-known disease that falls under the Parkinson’s umbrella. It was unnoticeable at first, except for little things: he walked slower, took more time to do simple tasks…things like that.

Eventually, it became more pronounced. His ability to walk went first, then speech became slurred, then eating became a challenge. Eventually, he became completely bedridden, unable to communicate at all, and had to have a feeding tube. It was slow, painful, and difficult to watch. My mother was by his side the entire time.

The author brought all of this back through her descriptions. It was hard to read at times, but that’s because her writing brought real memories and emotions to the surface. It certainly made the book more personal to me, which in turn made me feel more invested in the story.

If you are looking for a well-developed mystery with depth, don’t miss out on this one. My Goodreads review is below.

Expected Release Date: 4/23/2019

The Mother-In-LawThe Mother-In-Law by Sally Hepworth
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a great mystery! This book went in no direction that I expected it to go in and kept me guessing throughout the entire story. But it is more than that; it is also an in-depth character study about the relationships between women, specifically mothers- and daughters-in-law. I thought that Diana was an incredibly complex person, and I loved the way the reader was allowed to figure that out through Diana’s actions (rather than just being told). Without giving away plot points, the situation that materializes with Tom and Diana hit very close to home as I recently went through something similar with my parents (not to the same extent, but close enough that I teared up reading through particular sections). Thank you to the author for addressing that issue with frankness, but understanding. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes contemporary mysteries and non-nonsense writing. This review was voluntarily written based on a pre-release copy provided by NetGalley.

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BOOK REVIEW: Mr. Finchley Discovers His England

I love it when I find a hidden gem in the midst of contemporary novels, and this book is no exception.

Originally written in the 1930s, Mr. Finchley Discovers His England is a pleasant reminder of a simpler time, where there weren’t double meanings and people took the time to interact with each other. It is charming, entertaining, and plain ol’ fun.

Mr. Finchley is a clerk who has never taken a vacation. When the business changes owners, he finally has the opportunity to take some time away. However, fate has a sense of humor, and instead of a quiet few weeks in Margate, he ends up on a series of adventures that take him all over England – and give him a new perspective on life.

I particularly liked the initial adventure because it really set the tone for the rest of the novel. The author did a great job of easing the reader in for the ride.

Written in the style of the time, it is not a quick read, but the author writes so that the reader can become completely immersed in Mr. Finchley’s world. I appreciated this, because it allowed me to slow down and take things as they came – just like Mr. Finchley himself.

Do yourself a favor and pick this one up. Go discover England with Mr. Finchley.

My Goodreads review follows.

Mr Finchley Discovers His EnglandMr Finchley Discovers His England by Victor Canning
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an utterly charming novel! It’s the story of a normal, everyday clerk who takes his first vacation in years and ends up on an adventure that takes him across the country and back again. Each escapade builds on the previous one and with each event, the reader just loves Mr. Finchley a little bit more. Originally written in the 1930s, the novels are now being re-released. I loved the re-introduction to a simpler time, where everything is straightforward and there are no hidden meanings. It was a breath of fresh air to go along on this ride with Mr. Finchley, and I look forward to the rest of his experiences. Seriously, take a break from today’s novels and visit a simpler time. Don’t miss these novels. This review was written based on a digital pre-release from NetGalley.

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NEW RELEASE: Cougar by M.A. Foster

Happy Friday, everyone! Looking for something to read for the weekend? Go grab this new release by M.A. Foster. You can also read my review to help you decide 😉



Presents : New Release

Cougar
by M.A. Foster

Amazon
US | UK | CA | AU

Series: Heritage Bay; Book 3
Genre: Contemporary Romance



At eighteen, I met a man.

A man who turned my world upside down and made me the center of his.

He claimed us meeting was fate.

I agreed.

 I was the damsel in distress, and he was my white knight.

I became his princess, and he was my prince charming.

He gave me the fairy tale.

The dream.

Until fate circled around and turned my dream into a living nightmare.

Now, at forty, I’m a widowed single mother left to pick up the pieces of my broken heart and my broken family.

*Not recommended for readers under the age of 18 due to graphic sex scenes, language and adult situations.






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About the Author

M.A. Foster is a wife, mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and best friend. She loves chocolate, lattes, and all things sparkly. She was born and raised in Tampa, Florida and currently resides in Lutz, Florida with her husband and her crazy dog, Rocky.

When she’s not reading or writing, she’s either catching up with friends and family or chatting with her readers and fellow author friends on Facebook.


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BOOK REVIEW: Cougar by M.A. Foster

I read a lot of historical books, both fiction and non-fiction. I’m used to seeing a list of characters at the beginnings of those because the stories are often epic, convoluted, and it’s hard to keep people straight.

That type of list is not something I am used to seeing in a romance novel.

When I first opened Cougar on my Kindle and had to scroll through multiple pages of characters, I thought “Oh boy, this might be too much work.” But the plot sounded interesting, so I stuck with it.

And I am so very glad I did. Because I absolutely loved every second of this book!

I’ll admit, there were a few times where I thought, “who the hell is this person?” and I couldn’t tell you who some of the others were, but it doesn’t matter, because this was one epic story of love, loss, and second chances.

Y’all know that I don’t do plot recaps. Suffice to say that life events force Emerson to return to her hometown of Heritage Bay, FL after decades of being away. Her life has taken many twists over the years, and she always swore she would never go back. She has an amazing, supportive family and lots of friends. As life continues to throw curve balls at her, she grows and comes to new understandings about herself and the people who surround her.

That’s kind of simplistic, because there is was more to the story than that. Late in the book, one of the characters says, “Hold on, let me get Jerry Springer on the line.” My note at that point reads, “describes the entire book, right here.”

There are lots of baby mamas and daddies, but those connections don’t feel forced – they feel natural. In today’s world, convoluted relationships and webs of familial ties are totally normal. The author does an excellent job of weaving them all together.

I particular liked how the adults’ histories with each other caused them to judge and react to their teens’ experiences in different ways. There were cases of history repeating itself, and cases where the adults had learned from their past choices. This was an interesting facet to the character motivations.

Ultimately, however, it’s Emerson’s story about how she continues life after faced with tragedy. I will say that Cam (her ex-best friend’s brother, and her own brother’s best friend (see what I mean?)) is a great character – a perfect combination of devotion and dedication. He can be my latest BB any time! Bonus points for being a baseball player.

In some ways, this review is hard to write, because I can’t really isolate small events from the larger overarching plot. Another note I have is “the writer takes us along on the journey and what an effed up but marvelously epic journey it is.”

(Yeah, I make notes like that as I read. Helps me remember what I was thinking as I read it instead of trying to pull it all back up later).

Even though it’s the third in the Heritage Bay series, it was the first one I read and I can’t wait to go back and read the first two. I highly recommend Cougar and hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I did. Go get it. Now! (It’s currently $2.99, but free on KU!)

My Goodreads review is below.

Cougar (Heritage Bay Book 3)Cougar by M.A. Foster
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story sucked me in and wouldn’t let me go. The characters were well-rounded, and “real.” I especially loved the message of finding love amidst heartbreak, and that sometimes it’s right in front of you where you least expect it. And (oh yeah) Cam is one of the best book boyfriends I’ve ever had the pleasure of “meeting.” I loved this book and can’t recommend it enough! Check my blog at firefliesandfreekicks.com for a more detailed review. This review was written based on a complimentary pre-release copy.

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CHAPTER REVEAL: Missing in Action
Presents : Chapter Reveal

Missing in Action
by K.L. Donn

 Read Chapter One HERE!

Pre-Order Today!
Amazon
US | UK | CA | AU

 Other Retailers!

Genre: Contemporary Military Romance
Series: Task Force 779; Book 1



Ryder Morrison is a man of loyalty. To his country, his family, his team.

After joining the Navy, he was secretly recruited to Task Force 779, a specialized unit that infiltrates dangerous situations when no one else can – or will. As the communications expert, it’s his job to clear the way for a smooth mission. He knows where the enemy is hidden at all times and when his team can enter a zone safely.

When things go wrong and he’s captured, declared dead before a search can truly begin, Ryder knows that when he makes his way home, his life will be different … his way home, his life will be different … better. He’ll live for himself from now on, instead of following where duty takes him. 

Enter his elusive neighbor …
A woman of mystery and fear.

Codie Ray is a woman filled with pain. Afraid of life and locked away.

She counts to soothe the anxiety. She watches her neighbor because he’s her only lifeline to the outside world. He’s a commitment she doesn’t have to worry will break her. Until the unthinkable happens and her solace is intruded upon. Ryder comes to the rescue and barges his way into her life, pushing past her barriers, causing Codie to rethink her reclusive lifestyle. Slowly being tormented with mind games from an unknown predator, she battles her better judgement and trusts Ryder to do what he does best … hunt down the perpetrator.

Their connection is instantaneous. Two broken people yearning to be loved but afraid to reach for it. Codie fears Ryder will leave when he discovers just how damaged she is. Ryder worries Codie will remain locked away in her mind, unable to break free. 

A surprise mission brings both of their fears to life, and when the walls crumble, Ryder is Missing in Action while Codie is just … missing. Will they find each other again or will they disappear, existing only in a memory?

Photographer: Paul Henry Serres
Model: Simon – Instagram
Designer: Sensual Graphic Designs



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NEW RELEASE: Fall Apart for Me



Presents : New Release

Fall Apart For Me
by Linz Lenay

Series: Sterling; Book 2
Genre: Romantic Suspense / Mafia

 GOODREADS


He stares at me from afar, but never makes a move, I’m going to change that. 

I watch her from a distance, to keep her safe, I never stood a chance against that wicked gleam in her eye.

Bastian Sterling, head of the German Syndikat, knows his life isn’t sunshine and rainbows. He wants to know everything there is about Lizy Kate without having to put her in danger. Keeping her at a football field distance isn’t going to last long, he’s already caving to his heart.

Lizy Kate, Ex-English teacher and current editor/author, hasn’t had an easy past, but her time in her best friend’s town is just what she’s needed to start picturing a future. Stalker behind her and hours away, she can finally focus on being happy, and that involves the one man who won’t give into what they both want. 

When plans are formed and things start happening around their beloved town, can Bastian keep Lizy safe? Will he finally realize that they’re better off together?

*Involves kinky sexual content NOT suitable by minors. Trigger warnings for violence. No cheating involved. HEA*




Start this standalone series for 99 cents with Shutter For Me
Available in KU!


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BOOK REVIEW: Eighty-One Nights

I did not want this book to end.

That’s pretty much the review in a nutshell. (But I’ll give you guys a little bit more).

The beginning of this book reminded me of the Reba McEntire song, “Fancy.” In fact, through the first few chapters, I kept hearing the song lyric “Here’s your one chance Fancy don’t let me down” running through my head. Thankfully, the writer took the book in a much deeper direction than just a girl trying to earn money to get out of an undesirable situation.

Usually, a novel like this tends to focus on the young woman’s point of view and how she deals with this new world that has opened to her. This book is different because it focused equally on both perspectives, and this is what made the book more enjoyable.

I loved that I was able to understand Hutch’s point of view and how his past was affecting his decisions beyond the usual “I’m too broken to love” trope. He had a full backstory, as did Lou, which gave them depth. As a result, the story was much more fulfilling.

As Lou puts it, she is part of a beautiful illusion that she doesn’t want to end. I was right there with her. I was aware that I was nearing the end of the book, but I did not expect it to end where it did. As a result, I will be waiting eagerly for the second book in the duet, because this is one story that I cannot let go of easily.

My Goodreads review is below.

Eighty-One Nights (Beautiful Illusions Duet, #1)Eighty-One Nights by Georgia Cates
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wrecked. There’s no other way to describe how I feel after reading this book. I am absolutely wrecked. It is such a beautifully written and passionate story; I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. As a result, I didn’t realize how close I was to the end until, well, until it just ended. In my mind, I yelled “noooooooooooo!!!!!” because I didn’t want it to end, especially not where it did! The relationship between Max and Cait (Hutch and Lou) is full-on romance, in spite of the unconventional beginning of it. The story is interesting, the characters are compelling, and the writing is such that the reader feels what the characters are feeling. Oh, and can we say super-steamy as well? An excellent read, but I sure hope the second book is released soon, because I haven’t gotten enough of Hutch and Lou yet. This review was written based on a complimentary pre-release copy.

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