Review: DANE’S MARK (A Novel of the Breeds Book 33) by Lora Leigh

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DANE’S MARK (A Novel of the Breeds Book 33) by Lora Leigh

Publication Date: February 6, 2024

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Synopsis

IMG_1339A new kind of Breed is faced with what happens when destiny and desire collide in the latest novel in the highly charged series from #1 New York Times bestselling author Lora Leigh.

A decade ago Katy Chavos was a proud misfit who had her heart broken, crushed by a man who drew her close with one breath and pulled away the next. He left a mark she’s done everything in her power to erase. But when Katy’s job brings her back to the hometown she couldn’t wait to escape, seeing Dane again awakens something inside her that won’t be tamed….

Dane Vanderale isn’t like other Breeds. As a hybrid he’s stronger, more primal, and more determined to hide it. He’s also certain that Katy is not his mate—not that that stops him from wanting her with every part of his soul. He knows he hurt her deeply and he intends to make things right, but she is dead set on keeping him at arm’s length.

Despite their painful history, Katy can’t deny the intense attraction she still feels for Dane. And before long, it will be impossible for either to deny the truth that has been in front of them all along…

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I’ve been waiting for Dane’s story! I’ve loved him since he was first introduced in the series. I was a little disappointed in how he treated his mate in the beginning but he got there in the end. His story had all the heat Lora Leigh always packs in her books and had a lot of emotions and some danger. I fell harder for Dane in the end and he redeemed himself. I really enjoy the Breed Series and it’s a been a few years since I was able to revisit the Breed world Lora Leigh created. I hope there is a new release soon because the ending had some new charges and I can’t wait to see what happens next.

I recommend this series for paranormal romance readers that enjoy spicy love stories with some danger. The series doesn’t have to be read in order but it’s more enjoyable that way. 

*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.

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Buy Links

Kindle | Hardback

Amazon Series Link

Breed Chronology | Printable Book List

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About the Author

Lora Leigh dreams in bright, vivid images of the characters’ intent on taking over her writing life, and fights a constant battle to put them on the hard drive of her computer before they can disappear as fast as they appeared.

Lora’s family and her writing life coexist, if not in harmony, in relative peace with each other. Surrounded by a menagerie of pets, friends, and a son who keeps her quick wit engaged, Lora finds her life filled with joys, aided by her fans whose hearts remind her daily why she writes.

Website | Facebook | Amazon

Review: HOUSEBROKE by Jaci Burton

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HOUSEBROKE by Jaci Burton

Publication Date: December 12, 2023

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis

IMG_0910A millionaire and a woman who thinks he’s a house flipper are stuck living in a house together with a menagerie of rescue dogs as roommates, in this heartfelt romantic comedy from New York Times bestselling author Jaci Burton.

After her ex took all their money and bailed, Hazel Bristow is left broke and homeless. A kind friend whose home is on the market lets Hazel and her foster dogs stay there until it sells. It’s the perfect setup, until her friend forgets to tell Hazel she’s sold the house.

Linc Kennedy is shocked to find Hazel and her pups squatting in the house he just bought, but after some negotiating—she offers to cook amazing meals for him in return for a paycheck—he agrees to let her remain while he’s renovating the place. Linc tells Hazel he’s an investor who renovates homes for fun—he just leaves out the part about being wealthy.

Hazel’s intrigued by Linc. He’s funny, sweet, ridiculously hot, and loves dogs almost as much as she does. But her track record with men? Not great. She worries her trust meter isn’t in working order.

Linc’s never met anyone like the quirky beauty who puts everyone’s needs—human and canine—before her own. He didn’t tell her about his wealth because he’s been burned by women who only wanted him for his money. But with Hazel, he’s never felt more like himself. Now he has to figure out how to tell her the truth without losing her. Because Linc realizes what he feels for her isn’t puppy love—it’s true love.

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Donna 4 stars

This was an enjoyable, light romance. The forced proximity trope was cute and blended the future story together nicely. It wasn’t insta-love between Linc and Hazel, but they were just perfect for each other, didn’t fight the attraction, thus the relationship blossomed quickly into a hot romance. Add foster dogs to the mix, and you have a fun book to get lost in. I also enjoyed the banter and interaction with Linc’s family. I wish they were around more, but glad I had a taste of their relationship. I do have to say that Hazel’s actions during the climax of the story made me groan. It was forced as an almost “I have to have some drama here” situation. It could have been something different to add to the feel of the book instead of detracting. Overall, it is a light and enjoyable story.

*Review copy provided by Penguin Random House in exchange for an honest review.

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Buy Links

Kindle | Paperback

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About the Author Jaci Burton Bio PicAfter spending too many years to count in the high stress business world, New York Times and USA Today Bestelling Author Jaci Burton is happy to be living her dream of writing passionate romance. She has written over forty-five novels and is contracted to write ten more. Jaci has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business that she is thrilled not to be using in the corporate environment anymore. She grew up in Missouri but migrated to California, where she lived for thirteen years, but now makes her home in Oklahoma with her husband and five dogs. She enjoys being outdoors in the summer and she and her husband are avid Harley riders.

Jaci writes in multiple genres, from erotic romance to romantic suspense to contemporary romance. She has won the RT Book Reviews Reviewers Choice Award, and has been nominated for the award four times. She has been a finalist in the Bookseller’s Best and National Reader’s Choice Awards, and has won The Romance Studio’s CAPA Award four times.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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Review: BAYOU BELOVED by Lexi Blake

 

IMG_4809BAYOU BELOVED (Butterfly Bayou Series Book 6) by Lexi Blake

Publication Date: March 28, 2023

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis

IMG_4802When a woman returns home to Louisiana’s Butterfly Bayou, her high school crush finally notices she exists, in a small-town contemporary romance from New York Times bestselling author Lexi Blake.

Quaid Havery always planned to follow in his father’s footsteps. He went to law school and then came home to take over his dad’s legal practice. Being the only lawyer in small-town Papillon, Quaid is pretty sure he’s seen everything. After all, he was once asked to sue an alligator for defamation of character. He’s prepared for anything the town can throw at him, until he encounters Jayna Cardet. She’s gorgeous, smart, funny, and unlike any woman he’s met before….Except he has.

Jayna never thought she’d return to Papillon, but when her life gets turned around she must learn to live in the close-knit community again. She certainly never dreamed she would practice law in her little town, but she finds herself in the courtroom, and the opposing counsel is her former high school crush, Quaid. It wouldn’t be so bad if the man had developed a beer belly, but Quaid is more handsome than ever. And instead of ignoring her like he did in high school, he’s made it plain that he wants to get to know her.

Thus begins a courtship destined to end in a wedding or a war. Either way, the locals are popping some corn and eagerly awaiting the outcome.

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I’ve enjoyed the stories in Papillon. The townspeople are delightfully quirky and yet real. Quaid, the town’s lawyer, is almost too good to be true, like a vintage sitcom. I liked him immediately yet couldn’t understand his attraction to Jayna. She was a bit caustic, and it took me quite a bit to warm up to her and feel she was a good match for him. Their chemistry grew and was enjoyable to watch in their legal battles, as well as their blossoming relationship. The banter between them, friends, and family was fun, as well as the court cases. I did feel that all the family drama was a bit much for this book. Especially when everything just magically resolved. But overall, it was a fun nice read about a town and people I like. 

*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.

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Buy Links

Kindle | Paperback

Amazon Series Link

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About the Author

imageNY Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Amazon Author Page

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Review: IN ISABEAU’S EYES (Kentucky Nights Book 1) by Lora Leigh

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IN ISABEAU’S EYES (Kentucky Nights Book 1) by Lora Leigh

Publication Date: March 21, 2023

Genre: Romantic Suspense/ Contemporary Romance

Synopsis291DE0A0-D8E2-492E-89C0-3E60A75DB276The first novel in a new series from #1 New York Times bestselling author Lora Leigh—you’ve met the Mackays; now it’s time to meet their friends.

Danger is stalking Isabeau Boudreaux. After the deaths of her parents ten years ago during a violent attack that left her blind, remnants of her vision are returning. But a series of accidents has convinced her friends the Mackays of Somerset, Kentucky, that someone wants her dead. When a roadside blowout proves to be almost fatal for Isabeau and her good friend Angel, Angel’s brother mercenary Tracker Calloway knows this was no accident.

After a particularly bloody job, the last thing Tracker wants to do is get involved. But whoever is after Isabeau almost hurt his sister, and Isabeau is the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen. Tracker is determined to protect her but knows staying away from Isabeau is impossible. He begins a steady seduction to tempt the innocent woman into a world of hunger like she could have never imagined. And keeping her is the only option—if he can save her from an unknown enemy as her sight begins to slowly return.

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Donna 4 stars

I liked Isabeau. She was strong and resilient, able to stand up for herself without being a harpy. Yes, she made some silly mistakes in judgement, but that is also part of the story. Tracker was Ms. Leigh’s typical alpha male (with all the good and bad thrown in). He appreciated her strengths and helped her along. As happens, there was no real build up to their romance and instead combusted rather quickly. I enjoyed their chemistry and didn’t mind their insta-lust. The story itself was exciting and yet a bit confusing. I wanted to rate this book a 5, but it all got rather convoluted with so many characters that were just there – like we were supposed to know who they were. The Mackays from the Nauti series were included in the book and it has been quite a while since I’ve read them. I should have gone back to refresh my memory as to the relationship. Then so many other characters that were treated as if I should know who they were and why they were there. Like I said – confusing. It brought me out of the story at times. Now that I have a feel for this series, I can’t wait for the next book.

*Review copy provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.

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Buy Links

Kindle | Paperback 

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Lora Leigh lives in the rolling hills of Kentucky, often found absorbing the ambience of this peaceful setting. She dreams in bright, vivid images of the characters intent on taking over her writing life, and fights a constant battle to put them on the hard drive of her computer before they can disappear as fast as they appeared. Lora’s family, and her writing life co-exist, if not in harmony, in relative peace with each other. Surrounded by a menagerie of pets, friends, and a teenage son who keeps her quick wit engaged, Lora’s life is filled with joys, aided by her fans whose hearts remind her daily why she writes.

She can often be found daydreaming and plotting and planning with the varied characters that fill her imagination when she isn’t planning her flower gardens, watching the horses romp outside her home, or spending time with the family and pets she fills her life with. Writing is her passion, her peace, and her lifeline. She hopes you enjoy the stories, and that you visit her website http://www.loraleigh.com often for updates and news on characters and upcoming books.

Website | Facebook | Amazon

Review: THE LOVE WAGER by Lynn Painter

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THE LOVE WAGER by Lynn Painter
 

Publication Date: March 14, 2023 

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis

E317A2B0-B81B-4309-A1B1-9CBC0D4E29C3Two people make a wager on who can find love first, not realizing what they should be betting on is each other, in this new romantic comedy by Lynn Painter, New York Times bestselling author of Mr. Wrong Number.

Hallie Piper is turning over a new leaf. After belly-crawling out of a hotel room (hello, rock bottom), she decides it’s time to become a full-on adult. She gets a new apartment, a new haircut, and a new wardrobe, but when she logs onto the dating app that she has determined will find her new love, she sees none other than Jack, the guy whose room she snuck out of.

After agreeing they are absolutely not interested in each other, Jack and Hallie realize they’re each other’s perfect wing-person in their searches for The One. They text each other about their dates, often scheduling them at the same restaurant so that if things don’t go well, the two of them can get tacos afterward.

Spoiler: they get a lot of tacos together.

Discouraged by the lack of prospects, Jack and Hallie make a wager to see who can find true love first, but when they agree to be fake dates for a weekend wedding, all bets are off. As they pretend to be a couple, lines become blurred and they both struggle to remember why the other was a bad idea to begin with.

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I enjoyed this fast-paced witty story. Hallie and Jack were both people I identified with, and they had me grinning throughout their journey. The banter between them was easy and never felt forced for the sake of laughter. Their blossoming friendship pulled me in and kept me invested in their relationship. The sexy time was also fun and hot, making the story flow into a lovely romance. The friends and family around them added to the group camaraderie that I always enjoy in a book. The storyline was entertaining, even when some situations made my eyes roll.  A fun read that still has me smiling.

*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.  

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Buy Links

Kindle | Paperback

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About the author

Lynn Painter is the USA Today and New York Times Bestselling Author of BETTER THAN THE MOVIES. She writes romantic comedies for teens and adults, and when she isn’t reading or writing, she can usually be found binge-watching rom-coms or shotgunning energy drinks.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Review: A COSMIC KIND OF LOVE by Samantha Young

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A COSMIC KIND OF LOVE by Samantha Young

Publication Date: October 18, 2022

Genre: Contemporary Romance

SynopsisEE7F6641-F129-4F6A-8541-311117489733Space is the last thing an event planner and an astronaut need in this charming new romantic comedy from New York Timesbestselling author Samantha Young.

When event planner Hallie Goodman receives party-inspiration material from the bride of her latest wedding project, the last thing she expects to find is a collection of digital videos from Darcy’s ex-boyfriend. Hallie knows it’s wrong to keep watching these personal videos, but this guy is cute, funny, and an astronaut on the International Space Station to boot. She’s only human. And it’s not long until she starts sending e-mails and video diaries to his discontinued NASA address. Since they’re bouncing back, there’s no way anyone will ever be able to see them…right?

Christopher Ortiz is readjusting to life on earth and being constantly in the shadow of his deceased older brother. When a friend from NASA’s IT department forwards him the e-mails and video messages Hallie has sent, he can’t help but notice how much her sense of humor and pink hair make his heart race.

Separated by screens, Hallie and Chris are falling in love with each other, one transmission at a time. But can they make their star-crossed romance work when they each learn the other’s baggage?

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I enjoyed this sweet contemporary romance. The writing flowed and it was easy to switch from each first-person viewpoint. Chris was the astronaut yet didn’t have the cockiness that I thought he would have. He was likeable with a vulnerability that I found endearing. Hallie was not only an over-the-top people pleaser, she was also a magnet for mayhem. Despite seeming a bit immature at times, it made me chuckle. They were each successful in their careers while being unsure of their futures. In other words….normal. They made a lovely couple.

I enjoyed watching their relationship grow into a sexy romance. Nothing felt rushed or forced. There were some predictable parts that made my eyes roll (especially her parents), however it did not ruin the story for me. Overall, it is a feel-good and charming romance.

*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.  

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Buy Links

Kindle | Paperback

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About the author

Samantha Young is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the On Dublin Street series, including Moonlight on Nightingale Way, Echoes of Scotland Street, and Fall from India Place, as well as the standalone novel Hero. She resides in Scotland.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Review: THE HONEYMOON COTTAGE: A Novel by Lori Foster


THE HONEYMOON COTTAGE: A Novel by Lori Foster

Publication Date: May 24, 2022

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis

2BC783C8-45E5-46B9-9329-D0447196295FFrom New York Times bestselling author Lori Foster comes a heartwarming, romantic story for fans of Jill Shalvis, Lori Wilde and Sarah Morgan. In The Honeymoon Cottage, locals of a quirky small town help their favorite wedding planner find her own happily-ever-after.

She was fine arranging other people’s weddings… But life had other plans.

When it comes to creating the perfect happily-ever-after, Yardley Belanger is a bona fide miracle worker. From bridal bouquets to matching cowboy boots, the quirky wedding planner’s country-chic affairs have caused quite a stir in the small town of Cemetery. But when it comes to her own love life? She’s clueless.

Completely clueless.

Perhaps it’s for the best. The thirty-one-year-old has poured her heart and soul into her business and doesn’t have time for anything—or anyone—else. And that’s something not even the gorgeous older brother of her newest client can change…right?

All Travis Long wanted was to give his little sister, Sheena, the wedding of her dreams. Ever since the tragic death of their parents, he’s done everything he can to make her feel loved and give her everything she needs. Still…a country wedding? In a place called Cemetery? But Yardley seems to know exactly what to do and how to do it—and Travis finds himself falling for her a little more each day.

Soon Yardley and Travis find themselves being nudged together by well-meaning locals who want to see the town’s favorite wedding planner get her own happy ending.

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This book is a lovely contemporary romance that will leave me smiling for a while. It centers around Yardley, a wedding planner that dreams of carving out a happy place for herself while catering to the needs of everyone else. I have to comment that she was a little too sweet and perfect for me. She reminded me of an old-time Disney princess. Thankfully her best friend gave the angst I needed. Travis leaned toward the “too good to be true” vibe as well. But hey, they made a great couple and along with the quirky town, fun banter, and a roving mannequin, it all blended into a delightful summer romance. I’m curious about who will be next in the series.

*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Kindle | Paperback

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Synopsis

Lori Foster bio pic

Lori Foster is a New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than 100 titles. She’s known for her fun, very sexy contemporary romance novels revolving around alpha males and meet (and fall in love with) strong, independent women. Lori’s been a recipient of the prestigious RT Book ReviewsCareer Achievement Award for Series Romantic Fantasy, and for Contemporary Romance. Even more fun, Lori’s been a clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle, a clue in the USA Today Quick-cross puzzle, and the sensual and sexy Too Much Temptation was Amazon’s 2002 top-selling title in Romance.

Lori has a super-active Facebook page where she regularly gives away reader goodies like books (of course), T-shirts, ARCs (advance reviewers’ copies), tote bags and lots of fun swag. LIKE her Facebook page so you never miss out!

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads

Review: GO HEX YOURSELF by Jessica Clare

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GO HEX YOURSELF by Jessica Clare

Publication Date: April 19, 2022

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Synopsis

A9C01109-CD43-4190-8FC4-A7721F71BD5FIt’s one hex of an attraction in this romantic comedy from New York Times bestselling author Jessica Clare.

When Reggie Johnson answers a job ad in the paper, she’s astonished to find that she’s not applying to work at her favorite card game, Spellcraft: The Magicking. Instead, she’s applying to be an actual familiar for an actual witch. As in, real magic.

The new job has a few perks – great room and board, excellent pay, and she’s apprenticing to a powerful witch. Sure, the witch is a biteccentric. And sure, there was that issue with the black cat Reggie would prefer to forget about. The biggest problem, however, is warlock Ben Magnus, her employer’s nephew and the most arrogant, insufferable, maddening man to ever cast a spell.

Reggie absolutely hates him. He’s handsome, but he’s also bossy and irritating and orders her around. Ben’s butt might look great in a crystal ball vision, but that’s as far as it goes. But when someone with a vendetta targets the household, she finds herself working with Ben to break a deadly curse. Apparently, when they’re not fighting like cats and dogs, things get downright…bewitching.

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This was such a fun witchy rom-com. Reggie’s cluelessness about the witching world, the eccentric wackiness of her elderly employer, and the taciturn Ben’s behavior made me laugh. It all blended into a charming, sexy and fun mystery. The romance was a slow burn that thankfully became nicely heated. The mystery was fun and let the reader delve deeper into the magical world while the story unfolded. Part of me wishes we could have delved a bit deeper into the characters and their lives, but part of me just enjoyed the quick-read aspect of it all. I was charmed.

*Review copy provided by Berkley Romance in exchange for an honest review.

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About the Author
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New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Jessica Clare writes under three pen names. As Jessica Clare, she writes erotic contemporary romance. As Jessica Sims, she writes fun, sexy shifter paranormals. She also has a third pen name, because three is more fun than two. As Jill Myles, she writes a little bit of everything, from sexy, comedic urban fantasy to fairy tales gone wrong.

She lives in a teeny tiny town in North Texas that has no Starbucks, which is a cruel and unusual punishment. She spends her time with her husband, pets, and Keurig. Because, coffee.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Review: THE NIGHTSLAYER by Zoe Forward

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THE NIGHTSLAYER by Zoe Forward

Publication Date: March 30, 2022

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Synopsis

732346E9-25F0-4E16-A65E-58A196ED531AGemma Leight doesn’t believe in magic—not after years of witnessing senseless tragedy as an ER nurse. But the sexy vampire anti-hero in her new favorite medieval-esque TV show speaks to her. As in, he says her name while looking at her through the screen. Just when Gemma’s convinced she hallucinated the whole thing, she gets pulled into his world.

For over a century, Skarde Blackmann has roamed as a hunter-for-hire against evil creatures. The moment he begins to believe the prophecy about him is bogus, Gemma comes through a mirror. One slip up, one bite to the sassy woman who makes him laugh, and she’ll become a vampire—and condemn his soul to damnation. Not a problem; he’ll just keep his distance.

But when Gemma’s life is at stake, staying away is no longer an option…

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This is my first novel by Zoe Forward, and it won’t be my last. I found Nightslayer to be a fun and quick paranormal romance. Gemma’s life was rooted in gritty reality despite her friend being a witch. I liked that about her – that friendship helped her deal with the odd circumstances that propelled her into a new reality. It was a hoot watching her ramble on about things and sayings we would understand but were completely foreign to those on the other side. That made it fun to watch the taciturn  Skarde struggle to maintain his reputation as the biggest badass around. The storyline seemed a bit rushed at parts, and some behavior made me want to smack them upside the head, but I still enjoyed the dangerous twists and turns around their friends and foes…especially the characters I wasn’t sure about. I hope the next books is about Skarde’s brother. That I would like to see.

*Review copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

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AE2FEC1B-5C5B-470D-83EB-FF29B84EFCA8USA Today bestselling author, parent, wife, veterinarian, chocolate lover. Author of spicy paranormal and contemporary romances. Zoe Forward brings readers the perfect combination of action adventure, romance, humor and a bit of magic.

Her novels have won numerous awards including the Prism, Readers’ Choice Heart of Excellence, Golden Quill, Carolyn Readers Choice Award, and the Booksellers’ Best Award.

You can find her residing in the South with a menagerie of four-legged beasts and two wild kids.

See the latest on Zoe’s website: http://www.zoeforward.com

Don’t miss the newsletter: http://www.zoeforward.com/contact/

Review: ONCE UPON A CABIN by Patience Griffin

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ONCE UPON A CABIN (Sweet Home, Alaska Book 2) by Patience Griffin

Publication Date: November 30, 2021

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis

F84830E5-4777-4B8A-9EF4-FA205770F364Two sisters from Texas find themselves exiled to Alaska . . . and thrown into the arms of two very different men.

Tori and McKenna St. James have been living comfortably on their trust funds in Dallas. But their uncle Monty, keeper of the purse strings, decides to push them out of their comfort zones by requiring them to spend one year in Alaska or lose their inheritance. Initially the sisters are stunned, but they aren’t willing to back down from the challenge.

Tori is sent to a primitive homestead outside the tiny town of Sweet Home. She had been prepared to forego fashion magazines and lattes, but not electricity and running water! Will her rugged wilderness guide, Jesse Montana, teach her to survive, or send her fleeing back to civilization? Meanwhile, outdoorsy McKenna is stuck within the concrete walls of an Anchorage bank. Her sexy boss Luke McAvoy is tasked with teaching her the business but what he’s really doing is tempting her. Not that she’s the type to fall for a stuffed suit like him.

Tori and McKenna find much needed solace with Sweet Home’s Sisterhood of the Quilt. Will this crafty group of women be up to the challenge of teaching two outsiders how to sew—and perhaps how to love?

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I enjoyed this book, it captivated me even through the holiday season chaos. Granted, the situation the women were thrust into seemed rather extreme – but it made for a fun escape. Tori was a prissy city girl that I planned to dislike and failed. I liked her and how she pushed herself to rough it in the wilderness despite obvious limitations. Jesse was her “teacher” for the adventure and a perfect match for her. He taught her how to survive without a feeling of rescuing or pampering her. He let her be strong. (I loved the homesteading tips strewn into the storyline.) Tori’s sister McKenna was a secondary romance within the story. This outdoorsy woman had to spend a year in the city to learn the banking business. Personally, I thought she got off easy, especially with Luke there to be her mentor. I wish both romances had a bit more depth in the emotions. It felt like I was told they were falling for each other instead of shown.

I love small town romances that also showcase the people that live there. How others treat the couples reinforces the character’s worthiness of caring. It also helps when the townspeople are fun and engaging. In closing, this is a fun romance. No sexy-time, but I didn’t miss it. I’ve found a new author.

*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.

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93D84FA6-99DF-491D-BA4E-D0182D30FAF9Patience Griffin grew up in a small town along the Mississippi River. The author of the Quilts and Kilts and Sweet Home, Alaska novels, she has a master’s degree in nuclear engineering but spends her days writing stories about hearth and home and dreaming about the fictional small town of Gandiegow, Scotland.

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