Category Archives: Donna’s Reviews

Review: DO YOUR WORST by Rosie Danan

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DO YOUR WORST by Rosie Danan

Publication Date: November 14, 2023

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Synopsis

saveSparks fly when an occult expert and a disgraced archeologist become enemies-with-benefits in this steamy romance from “go-to author” Rosie Danan (The New York Times Book Review).

Riley Rhodes finally has the chance to turn her family’s knack for the supernatural into a legitimate business when she’s hired to break the curse on an infamous Scottish castle. Used to working alone in her alienating occupation, she’s pleasantly surprised to meet a handsome stranger upon arrival—until he tries to get her fired.

Fresh off a professional scandal, Clark Edgeware can’t allow a self-proclaimed “curse breaker” to threaten his last chance for redemption. After he fails to get Riley kicked off his survey site, he vows to avoid her. Unfortunately for him, she vows to get even.

Riley expects the curse to do her dirty work by driving Clark away, but instead, they keep finding themselves in close proximity. Too close. Turns out, the only thing they do better than fight is fool around. If they’re not careful, by the end of all this, more than the castle will end up in ruins.

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Donna review 4.5 stars

I enjoyed this story. A contemporary Rom-com with paranormal undertones was rather fun. The curse breaking aspect was like an archaeology mystery. Which worked quite well with the archaeologist in residence and setting up the angst between them. Riley was the curse breaker and Clark the archaeologist. Pulling in the ancient myths and legends surrounding a castle in the Scottish Highlands, had both scrambling for answers and dismissing the other’s work. I don’t always like the enemies to lovers trope because they tend to drag on too long for me. This came close to that but saved itself as part of the story. At some points their actions seemed rather cruel, so I was glad when that got resolved. The romance was hot and sexy due to their mutual insta-lust. The enemy vow didn’t stand a chance.

Overall, it was a fun quick read that made me smile. I do hope this becomes a series so I can see what happens next.

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

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Buy Links

Kindle | Paperback

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About the Author

Rosie Danan is the award-winning, bestselling author of The Roommate, The Intimacy Experiment, and Do Your Worst. Her work has been optioned for film as well as translated into nine different languages and counting. The New York Times describes her writing as “warmly funny and gorgeously sexy.”

When not working on her next book, Rosie enjoys jogging slowly to fast music, petting other people’s dogs, and competing against herself in rounds of Chopped using the miscellaneous ingredients occupying her fridge.

Review: DARK MEMORY by Christine Feehan

IMG_7473DARK MEMORY (A Carpathian Novel Book 37) by Christine Feehan

Publication Date: October 3, 2023

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Synopsis

IMG_7471Experience a connection that defies death in this captivating novel in Christine Feehan’s #1 New York Times bestselling Carpathian series.

Safia Meziane has trained since birth to protect her tribe, the family she holds so dear. All along she told herself the legends she was raised with were simply that. But now, she must call upon all of her skills to fight what lies ahead. Evil has come to their small town on the coast of Algeria, evil that Safia can feel but cannot see.

She is terrified she will not be able to protect the ones she loves. As her family’s “chosen one,” she has always believed she would face this task alone—until her family reveals she has been promised to a warrior who will join her. An outsider. A Carpathian…

Petru Cioban is one of the oldest Carpathians in existence, and he has spent all that time without the soothing presence of his lifemate. For two thousand years he has waited for this woman to be reborn, only to find her in the sights of a monster he has fought before, a vampire risen again to finish a battle started centuries ago.

Now, Petru must face his greatest enemy and his greatest shame. He has no hope that Safia will forgive his betrayal once the memories of her past life return to her. But he will not make the same mistake again, even if he has to sacrifice everything for the woman who has claimed his immortal soul.

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I got lost in this tale from the start. I loved the Algerian aspect and family customs so easily incorporated into the storyline. Safia came alive as the family and tribe’s demon slayer and protector. Those around her aided in describing her character and strength just by their interaction with her, making me become invested in all the tribe’s future. Petru is the usual ancient Carpathian. He had a few different nuances because of his and Safia’s history, but his character was not as rounded out as hers. I enjoyed their lover’s banter as the relationship progressed. Nice sexiness intertwined with the danger and evil surrounding them.

The story itself was fast paced and quite riveting. Safia’s way of fighting demons and vampires had new aspects that made it interesting. Lilith and her demon horde had their work cut out for them when facing Safia and Petru’s people. I cannot wait for the next installment. The hints about it sounded quite enticing.

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

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Buy Links

Kindle | Hardback

Amazon Series Link

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image#1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan has over 40 novels published, including four series. Each of her four series has hit #1 on the NY Times. Her debut novel Dark Prince received 3 of the 9 Paranormal Excellence Awards in Romantic Literature for 1999. Since then she has been published by Leisure Books, Pocket Books, and currently is writing for Berkley/Jove. She also has earned 7 more PEARL awards.

She is pleased to have made numerous bestseller lists including the New York Times, Publishers Weekly, USA Today, Bookscan, B. Daltons, Amazon, Barnes and Nobles, Waldenbooks, Ingrams, Borders, Rhapsody Book Club, Washington Post, and Walmart. She has received numerous honors throughout her career including being a nominee for the RWA’s RITA. She has received a Career Achievement Award from Romantic Times and the Borders 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award.

She has been published in multiple languages and in many formats, including large print, palm pilot, e-book, and hardcover. In October of 2007 her first manga comic, Dark Hunger was released in stores. This was the first ever manga comic released by Berkley Publishing and it made #11 on Publisher’s Weekly Bestseller’s List. Her ground-breaking book trailer commercials have been shown on TV and in the movie theaters. She has been featured on local TV, appeared on the The Montel Williams Show, and her book Dark Legend was featured on the cover of Romantic Times Magazine.

Christine Feehan has also appeared at numerous writers’ conventions and book signings including: Romantic Times Convention, Get Caught Reading at Sea Cruise, Celebrate Romance Conference, Emerald City Conference, and numerous Romance Writers of America Conferences.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

Review: SHADOW DANCE by Christine Feehan

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SHADOW DANCE (A Shadow Riders Novel Book 8) by Christine Feehan

Publication Date: August 22, 2023

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Synopsis

IMG_6910Tensions and passions rise in the city that never sleeps in this propulsive novel in #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan’s Shadow Riders series.

As the head of the New York City Shadow Riders and his branch of the Ferraro family, Geno bears the weight of dual responsibilities on his broad shoulders. There’s nothing more important to Geno than protecting his territory and his famiglia. So when his own parents become the latest victims in a string of vicious murders, Geno is ready to go scorched earth. He thinks he has the assassin in his sights, but he’s unprepared for the firestorm their connection ignites….

Amaranthe Aubert’s lithe dancer’s body conceals a spine of steel. Even held captive and faced with the threat of lethal interrogation, she’s not about to cave under pressure. She had nothing to do with the murders, no matter what the ruthless man in front of her believes. But before Amara knows what’s happening, Geno connects to her in the shadows, stripping her bare of all artifice. Now, she has no way to hide her true reason for being in New York—and nowhere to run from the man who’s very presence steals the very breath from her lungs….

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I enjoyed the introduction to the New York Ferraros. They are fierce, loyal, dangerous, and yet share a lighthearted camaraderie that tempers their dangerous personalities. It did take me a little bit to warm up to Geno and Amaranthe, so the insta-love once their shadows merged didn’t mesh with me. Thankfully that changed as their attraction and mutual respect blossomed into a loving and romantic dance. I particularly enjoyed watching Geno struggle with his need to shelter her while respecting her innate abilities that rivaled his. They made quite the couple. The storyline was compelling and had my heart racing a few times. I liked that the Chicago Ferraros were there to help round out this new direction of the Riders. I look forward to the next installment!

*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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image#1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan has over 40 novels published, including four series. Each of her four series has hit #1 on the NY Times. Her debut novel Dark Prince received 3 of the 9 Paranormal Excellence Awards in Romantic Literature for 1999. Since then she has been published by Leisure Books, Pocket Books, and currently is writing for Berkley/Jove. She also has earned 7 more PEARL awards.

She is pleased to have made numerous bestseller lists including the New York Times, Publishers Weekly, USA Today, Bookscan, B. Daltons, Amazon, Barnes and Nobles, Waldenbooks, Ingrams, Borders, Rhapsody Book Club, Washington Post, and Walmart. She has received numerous honors throughout her career including being a nominee for the RWA’s RITA. She has received a Career Achievement Award from Romantic Times and the Borders 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award.

She has been published in multiple languages and in many formats, including large print, palm pilot, e-book, and hardcover. In October of 2007 her first manga comic, Dark Hunger was released in stores. This was the first ever manga comic released by Berkley Publishing and it made #11 on Publisher’s Weekly Bestseller’s List. Her ground-breaking book trailer commercials have been shown on TV and in the movie theaters. She has been featured on local TV, appeared on the The Montel Williams Show, and her book Dark Legend was featured on the cover of Romantic Times Magazine.

Christine Feehan has also appeared at numerous writers’ conventions and book signings including: Romantic Times Convention, Get Caught Reading at Sea Cruise, Celebrate Romance Conference, Emerald City Conference, and numerous Romance Writers of America Conferences.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

#GhostlyGame #NetGalley

Review: BUSINESS OR PLEASURE by Rachel Lynn Solomon

IMG_5929BUSINESS OR PLEASURE by Rachel Lynn Solomon

Publication Date: July 4, 2023

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Synopsis

IMG_5922A ghostwriter and a struggling actor help each other on the page and in the bedroom in this steamy romantic comedy from the New York Times bestselling author of The Ex Talk.

Chandler Cohen has never felt more like the ghost in “ghostwriter” until she attends a signing for a book she wrote—and the author doesn’t even recognize her. The evening turns more promising when she meets a charming man at the bar and immediately connects with him. But when all their sexual tension culminates in a spectacularly awkward hookup, she decides this is one night better off forgotten.

Unfortunately, that’s easier said than done. Her next project is ghostwriting a memoir for Finn Walsh, a C-list actor best known for playing a lovable nerd on a cult classic werewolf show who now makes a living appearing at fan conventions across the country. Chandler knows him better from their one-night stand of hilarious mishaps.

Chandler’s determined to keep their partnership as professional as possible, but when she admits to Finn their night together wasn’t as mind-blowing as he thought it was, he’s distraught. He intrigues her enough that they strike a deal: when they’re not working on his book, Chandler will school Finn in the art of satisfaction. As they grow closer both in and out of the bedroom, they must figure out which is more important, business or pleasure—or if there’s a way for them to have both.

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I thoroughly enjoyed this sexy little contemporary romance. For me it was refreshing and new in several ways. Each of them had vulnerabilities and issues I could relate to, which made me invested in their future. I adored Finn. He wasn’t the stereotypical alpha male, but instead a bit of a nerd (Lord of the Rings fan which made me love him more.) and a bit unsure of himself. Chandler had her own hidden insecurities that made her the perfect one to understand Finn. I loved how they dealt with issues – honestly and maturely. Especially about Finn’s poor performance in the bedroom. It was refreshing to not deal with angst, tantrums, or drama. The book didn’t need that to drive the story. This novel dealt with OCD and self-doubt, but in a way that was not preachy. It was real, humorous, sexy, and fun.

*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

Rachel Lynn Solomon is the New York Times bestselling author of The Ex Talk, Today Tonight Tomorrow, and other romantic comedies for teens and adults. Her next book, Business or Pleasure, will be published in July 2023. Originally from Seattle, she’s currently navigating expat life in Amsterdam, where she can often be found exploring the city, collecting stationery, and working up the courage to knit her first sweater. Connect with her on Instagram @rlynn_solomon or online at rachelsolomonbooks.com.

Review: LOVE, THEORETICALLY by Ali Hazelwood

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LOVE, THEORETICALLY by Ali Hazelwood

Publication Date: June 13, 2023

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis

IMG_7474Rival physicists collide in a vortex of academic feuds and fake dating shenanigans in this delightfully STEMinist romcom from the New York Times bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis and Love on the Brain.

The many lives of theoretical physicist Elsie Hannaway have finally caught up with her. By day, she’s an adjunct professor, toiling away at grading labs and teaching thermodynamics in the hopes of landing tenure. By other day, Elsie makes up for her non-existent paycheck by offering her services as a fake girlfriend, tapping into her expertly honed people-pleasing skills to embody whichever version of herself the client needs.

Honestly, it’s a pretty sweet gig—until her carefully constructed Elsie-verse comes crashing down. Because Jack Smith, the annoyingly attractive and arrogant older brother of her favorite client, turns out to be the cold-hearted experimental physicist who ruined her mentor’s career and undermined the reputation of theorists everywhere. And he’s the same Jack Smith who rules over the physics department at MIT, standing right between Elsie and her dream job.

Elsie is prepared for an all-out war of scholarly sabotage but…those long, penetrating looks? Not having to be anything other than her true self when she’s with him? Will falling into an experimentalist’s orbit finally tempt her to put her most guarded theories on love into practice?

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If you like quick banter and fast, rambling inner thoughts – then this book is for you. Elsie is a genius yet has such an inferiority complex that it makes her quite the people pleaser. This in turn does her no favors in life. I loved her quick wit and laughed at some of her inner thoughts. However, her need to please seemed a bit extreme and not consistent with her level of intelligence. Her blindness to other’s treatment frustrated me, especially her mentor. Jack is also a physicist that at first came across as controlled and brooding. It didn’t take long to see he was a rather caring person and up to the task of pulling Elsie out of her self-imposed misery. The storyline was filled with a bit too much science and academia for me, but that is a personal opinion. I just seemed to get lost in it all and found myself skimming a few places that dragged. It is a verbally fast paced book, (If that makes sense), that had me smiling quite a few times.

*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

Ali Hazelwood is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Love, Theoretically and The Love Hypothesis, as well as a writer of peer-reviewed articles about brain science, in which no one makes out and the ever after is not always happy. Originally from Italy, she lived in Germany and Japan before moving to the US to pursue a PhD in neuroscience. When Ali is not at work, she can be found running, eating cake pops, or watching sci-fi movies with her three feline overlords (and her slightly-less-feline husband).

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Review: MRS. NASH’S ASHES by Sarah Adler

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MRS. NASH’S ASHES by Sarah Adler

Publication Date: May 23, 2023

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis

IMG_5531A starry-eyed romantic, a cynical writer, and (the ashes of) an elderly woman take the road trip of a lifetime that just might upend everything they believe about true love.

Millicent Watts-Cohen is on a mission. When she promised her elderly best friend that she’d reunite her with the woman she fell in love with nearly eighty years ago, she never imagined that would mean traveling from D.C. to Key West with three tablespoons of Mrs. Nash’s remains in her backpack. But Millie’s determined to give her friend a symbolic happily-ever-after, before it’s (really) too late—and hopefully reassure herself of love’s lasting power in the process.

She just didn’t expect to have a living travel companion.

After a computer glitch grounds flights, Millie is forced to catch a ride with Hollis Hollenbeck, an also-stranded acquaintance from her ex’s MFA program. Hollis certainly does not believe in happily-ever-afters—symbolic or otherwise—and makes it quite clear that he can’t fathom Millie’s plan ending well for anyone.

But as they contend with peculiar bed-and-breakfasts, unusual small-town festivals, and deer with a death wish, Millie begins to suspect that her reluctant travel partner might enjoy her company more than he lets on. Because for someone who supposedly doesn’t share her views on romance, Hollis sure is becoming invested in the success of their journey. And the closer they get to their destination, the more Millie has to admit that maybe this trip isn’t just about Mrs. Nash’s love story after all—maybe it’s also about her own.

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I can’t believe this is Sarah Adler’s debut novel. I loved it! I’ll admit I wasn’t sure at first, but Millie was just too delightful not to fall in love with. Her quirky behavior never became stupid or forced on the page, it was just fun. Hollis was the perfect counterpoint to her. The author effortlessly portrayed his reluctant romantic hiding behind snippy behavior. It was a joy to watch their relationship blossom amid quick and witty banter. And my-oh-my, that romance turned nice and steamy.

Amid the storyline there were some flashbacks to Mrs. Nash’s life and love. Normally I do not like flashback scenes as they tend to pull me from the story. That being said – It was done effortlessly and blended perfectly into the story. I got two love stories in one. Overall, the book was a fun and emotional journey that will stay with me. Sarah Adler is now on my list of favorite authors.

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

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Buy Links

Kindle | Paperback

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Sarah Adler writes romantic comedies about lovable weirdos finding their happily ever afters. She lives in Maryland with her husband and daughter and spends an inordinate amount of her time yelling at her mischievous cat to stop opening the kitchen cabinets. Mrs. Nash’s Ashes is her debut novel.

You can find her at sarahadlerwrites.com, or on Twitter (@sarahaadler) and Instagram (@sarahadlerwrites).

Review: SUMMER READING by Jenn McKinlay

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SUMMER READING by Jenn McKinlay

Publication Date: May 16, 2023

Genre: Contemporary Romance

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When a woman who’d rather do anything than read meets a swoon-worthy bookworm, sparks fly, making for one hot-summer fling in New York Times bestselling author Jenn McKinlay’s new rom-com.

For Samantha Gale, a summer on Martha’s Vineyard at her family’s tiny cottage was supposed to be about resurrecting her career as a chef, until she’s tasked with chaperoning her half-brother, Tyler. The teenage brainiac is spending his summer at the local library in a robotics competition, and there’s no place Sam, who has dyslexia, likes less than the library. And because the universe hates her, the library’s interim director turns out to be the hot-reader guy whose book she accidentally destroyed on the ferry ride to the island.

Bennett Reynolds is on a quest to find his father, whose identity he’s never known. He’s taken the temporary job on the island to research the summer his mother spent there when she got pregnant with him. Ben tells himself he isn’t interested in a relationship right now. Yet as soon as Sam knocks his book into the ocean, he can’t stop thinking about her.

An irresistible attraction blossoms when Ben inspires Sam to create the cookbook she’s always dreamed about and she jumps all in on helping him find his father, and soon they realize their summer fling may heat up into a happily ever after.

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This book turned out to be a delightful story. At first, I wasn’t sure about Sam, and it took a little bit for me to get to know her. The writing almost made her defined by her dyslexia and not who she was as a person. Her personality did come through after a bit, and I found that I liked and could relate to her. Ben was almost too good to be true, so his immediate attraction to her was confusing. It was a pleasure to read how their personalities came through and the relationship grew. I also loved watching Sam’s relationship with her brother evolve. That made me smile as much as the romance part of the book. I have to say that I think the book was a bit wordy, but the story is a true feel-good escape and nice introduction to Martha’s Vineyard. I do believe the next book will be about Sam’s Friend, Em. I liked her and look forward to what Ms. McKinlay has in store for her.

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

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Kindle | Paperback

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Jenn is the New York Times, USA Today, and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of several mystery and romantic comedy series. She lives in sunny Arizona in a house that is overrun with kids, pets, and her husband’s guitars.

Visit her website at: www.jennmckinlay.com

Or follow her:
Facebook: JennMcKinlayAuthor
Instagram: @mckinlayjenn

Review: GHOSTLY GAME by Christine Feehan

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GHOSTLY GAME (A GhostWalker Novel Book 19) by Christine Feehan

Publication Date: May 2, 2023

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Synopsis

IMG_5079It’s fight or flight in this sultry, suspenseful GhostWalker novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan.

Gideon “Eagle” Carpenter is used to rolling with the punches life has thrown at him. It’s the only thing that’s kept him alive. He and his team of GhostWalkers have seen and experienced it all. He does his best to live with all the sins written on his soul. Then he hears the laughter of a woman with the ability to erase—even for a few precious moments—the darkness of his past.

Laurel “Rory” Chappel has always been a nomad. She’s accustomed to taking care of herself, despite the physical challenges she lives with. She thinks she’s too weak to find real love, but that doesn’t stop her interest in Gideon from turning into a full-on addiction. He’s all rough edges and danger contrasted with a tenderness that makes her feel safe. Still, after a life spent in motion, she’s not sure she knows how to stay in one place.

Gideon hopes he can persuade Rory to take a chance on him with every electric touch. But soon, life conspires against him, forcing the GhostWalker to risk everything to protect the woman he loves….

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I believe this is my favorite Ghostwalker installment. I immediately liked them both and understood their reactions to each other and the danger around them. Rory’s past, though forgotten, caused her nightmares and made her afraid to trust. Gideon has many demons from his past as well, yet they help each other break open their shells and find love. The romance was sweet, yet turbulent..I loved it. I didn’t realize until I finished that this book was not as steamy as Ms. Feehan’s usual style. I didn’t miss it at all. It flowed smoothly and believably. The storyline was almost twofold. Separate mysteries swirling around with a lot of drama and danger. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. I enjoyed it all.

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

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Buy Links

Kindle | Hardback

Amazon Series Link

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image#1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan has over 40 novels published, including four series. Each of her four series has hit #1 on the NY Times. Her debut novel Dark Prince received 3 of the 9 Paranormal Excellence Awards in Romantic Literature for 1999. Since then she has been published by Leisure Books, Pocket Books, and currently is writing for Berkley/Jove. She also has earned 7 more PEARL awards.

She is pleased to have made numerous bestseller lists including the New York Times, Publishers Weekly, USA Today, Bookscan, B. Daltons, Amazon, Barnes and Nobles, Waldenbooks, Ingrams, Borders, Rhapsody Book Club, Washington Post, and Walmart. She has received numerous honors throughout her career including being a nominee for the RWA’s RITA. She has received a Career Achievement Award from Romantic Times and the Borders 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award.

She has been published in multiple languages and in many formats, including large print, palm pilot, e-book, and hardcover. In October of 2007 her first manga comic, Dark Hunger was released in stores. This was the first ever manga comic released by Berkley Publishing and it made #11 on Publisher’s Weekly Bestseller’s List. Her ground-breaking book trailer commercials have been shown on TV and in the movie theaters. She has been featured on local TV, appeared on the The Montel Williams Show, and her book Dark Legend was featured on the cover of Romantic Times Magazine.

Christine Feehan has also appeared at numerous writers’ conventions and book signings including: Romantic Times Convention, Get Caught Reading at Sea Cruise, Celebrate Romance Conference, Emerald City Conference, and numerous Romance Writers of America Conferences.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

#GhostlyGame #NetGalley

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: JANE & EDWARD: A Modern Reimagining of Jane Eyre by Melodie Edwards

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JANE & EDWARD: A Modern Reimagining of Jane Eyre by Melodie Edwards

Publication Date: March 21, 2023

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis

0FCA6F83-69CB-4667-9670-E68D8FEB1849This powerful reimagining of Jane Eyre, set in a modern-day law firm, is full of romance and hope as it follows the echoing heartbeats of the classic story.

A former foster kid, Jane has led a solitary life as a waitress in the suburbs, working hard to get by. Tired of years of barely scraping together a living, Jane takes classes to become a legal assistant and shortly after graduating accepts a job offer at a distinguished law firm in downtown Toronto. Everyone at the firm thinks she is destined for failure because her boss is the notoriously difficult Edward Rosen, the majority stakeholder of Rosen, Haythe & Thornfield LLP. But Jane has known far worse trials and refuses to back down when economic freedom is so close at hand.

Edward has never been able to keep an assistant—he’s too loud, too messy, too ill-tempered. There’s something about the quietly competent, delightfully sharp-witted Jane that intrigues him though. As their orbits overlap, their feelings begin to develop—first comes fondness and then something more. But when Edward’s secrets put Jane’s independence in jeopardy, she must face long-ignored ghosts from her past and decide if opening her heart is a risk worth taking.

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I can’t believe this is a debut novel for Ms. Edwards. I loved it and could not put it down. I’ll admit that I don’t remember the storyline of Jane Eyre, so I was not stuck comparing different aspects of the story.

Jane was so calm on the outside, seeming to take life day by day. But on the inside her thoughts were spot on and relatable to me. I liked her immediately. I loved how she grew to find that she always had strength and courage inside her. Then there is Edward. He was a quirky and temperamental tornado that most saw as a jerk. But Jane and the reader saw through that early on. He too had his demons to overcome. I think they recognized and related to each other’s strengths and vulnerabilities. Yes, he screwed up badly, but I couldn’t dislike him for it. I even admired and understood Jane’s response. That made it a joy to see how the story resolved itself. Witty dialogue, fast paced writing, and a lovely 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

Melodie Edwards has a BA from the University of Toronto, a master’s degree from McMaster University and Syracuse University (2023), studied comedy writing at the Second City Training Centre, and works in communications. Jane & Edward is her first novel.

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