Time for Books 2015 Review Team

I'm so excited to participate in Jo Michael's Time for Books 2015 Review Team. 

I do many reviews a year--a mixture of traditionally published and indie books. For this team, I will plan to read 21-40 INDIE books to share (HUNGRY level). Hopefully, I'll read even more.

If you'd like to join, check out these instructions from Jo Michaels blog:

Go to this page and follow the instructions to sign up. Every time you post a book review on your blog, enter it here and tweet about it with one of the hashtags on that page (#2015ReviewTeam or #Time4Books).

Also, if you want to find some great reads for the challenge, follow Jo's 12 Days of Review Requests event (running through 12/20/14) for some ideas. Her Day 7 post can be found here.

A Blog By Any Other Name: Musing Mondays

First, a quick announcement. The winner of the paperback copy of The Healer of Fox Hollow is ...

Beth from Hawaii

Beth, your copy will be out to you shortly. Thanks to all who entered.

If you missed the review, please check it out here. The book is amazing.

*****

And now for a Musing Mondays prompt from Should be Reading:

What attracts you to a book blog? What puts you off in a book blog? Do you share personal stuff on your book blog?

Great question, and I'm really looking forward to reading the responses. I'm always looking for ways to make this book review blog better for readers. Books mean so much to me, and I want to give reviews and recommendations that people find helpful.

I like to read reviews that seem genuine, equal parts summarizing the story and telling me why the reviewer liked/didn't like the book. Since I read cross genres and enjoy mixing it up, I also prefer book review blogs that cover a myriad of books. If I'm in the mood for paranormal, I might go directly to a paranormal reviewer. But more often than not, I'm just in the mood for a good book and not hung up on its subject matter. I also love a unique perspective. I read a review the other day where the reviewer broke down her stars based on characters, setting, and several other story elements. It was thorough and sold me on the book.

If every review on a blog is 5-star and glowing, I start to doubt the site. Not every good book is. There has to be a scale. I'm willing to consider anything 3 to 5, especially if the review is well-written and explains what was good/bad. And I will shy away from blogs that constantly rate books poorly, because then it seems overly critical. Finally, I get turned off if I see too many flashing book ads. It leaves the feeling that positive book reviews are being bought.

I don't share a lot of personal stuff within reviews, but I will share personal aspects to further explain what I like and don't like about certain books here. I share more personal experiences at my Depression Cookies blog. My most personal responses for this blog are usually within my Musing Mondays posts.

Your turn... what makes you love/hate a book review blog?

Night Sky, Jolene Perry (4 stars)

Night Sky Summary

After losing Sarah, the friend he’s loved, to some other guy, Jameson meets Sky. Her Native American roots, fluid movements, and need for brutal honesty become addictive fast. This is good. Jameson needs distraction – his dad leaves for another woman, his mom’s walking around like a zombie, and Sarah’s new boyfriend can’t keep his hands off of her.

As he spends time with Sky and learns about her village, her totems, and her friends with drums - she's way more than distraction. Jameson's falling for her fast.

But Sky’s need for honesty somehow doesn’t extend to her life story – and Jameson just may need more than his new girl to keep him distracted from the disaster of his senior year.

Review

Sweet and engaging, Night Sky is the story of young love. Jameson has been pining for his best friend, Sarah, for years when he meets the new girl in town, Sky. He is immediately drawn to her, but still fighting his connection to Sarah.

While figuring out his feelings, his dad leaves for another woman. Sky is there for him. He finds her honesty and beauty intoxicating. He senses he doesn't know her as well as he thought when she goes back home to deal with her family and shares few details.

I found myself quite drawn to Jameson's character. Jolene Perry does an outstanding job showing his conflicting feelings and growing need for Sky. I usually prefer female main characters, but I was quite smitten with Jameson. Both Sky and Sarah could have been more developed, but it was really Jameson's story to tell.

I highly recommend Night Sky to readers, from young teenagers to adults, who are looking for a sweet romance with a compelling male lead. It's a light, quick read and not one werewolf or vampire in sight. I am definitely passing this one on to my 12-year-old daughter.

Rating: 4 stars 

For more information on Night Sky, please visit the website and GoodReads page and follow #NightSky on Twitter.

Jolene Perry's Bio:

Jolene grew up in Wasilla, Alaska. She graduated from Southern Utah University with a degree in political science and French, which she used to teach math to middle schoolers.

After living in Washington, Utah and Las Vegas, she now resides in Alaska with her husband, and two children. Aside from writing, Jolene sews, plays the guitar, sings when forced, and spends as much time outside as possible.

She is also the author of The Next Door Boys and the upcoming Knee Deep.

For more information on the author

Facebook

Twitter

Website

Blog

GoodReads

Buy Night Sky

Kindle

Nook

Smashwords

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iBookstore Buy Link (Coming Soon)

Note: I received a complimentary copy from Tribute Books for review purposes. No other compensation was received. A positive review was not guaranteed or asked for; the views expressed are my own.

For more information on Tribute Books, please visit their website, on Facebook, and on Twitter.

Sunset, Pact Arcanum: Book One by Arshad Ahsanuddin (3.5 stars)

From Amazon: Book One of the gay vampire saga Pact Arcanum.

With millennia-old magic, emerging romance, and ever-shifting allegiances, this inventive new series unveils a scintillating, homoerotic world of Nightwalkers, Daywalkers, Sentinels, and Humans, who battle for world dominance in the not-too-distant future.

Los Angeles, 2040. The terrorist Medusa and her followers threaten to destroy the metropolis with a nuclear bomb. One individual, the vampire Nicholas Jameson, comes forward to oppose them. As Nick takes on the terrorists, the fragile peace between the races hangs perilously in the balance as the supernatural peoples are exposed.

How many awards shows have you watched? How stunned would you be if one was taken over by a terrorist on live television? But that’s only the beginning… who saves the day but a space-travelling vampire.

Nick Jameson has suffered and sacrificed, both of which have hardened him to love. He’s a vampire, but of a special breed—he’s been redeemed, earning back his soul, and can walk in the day. When he steps up to be a hero, his world is revealed to humans. Can our world, particularly the United States government, find a way to peacefully coexist?

Wouldn’t you love a synopsis of how it all goes down? I’m sure. But I must admit, it’s so intricate and involved that trying to summarize it might just make my brain explode. I can tell you not one word is wasted. Everything that happens leads to the ultimate battle and conclusion. Each character is well-defined and serves a purpose. So much so that I truly believe this book could have been separated into two parts. There’s just so much going on.

Let me also address the white elephant in the room. Prior to this book, I had never read a novel with detailed homosexual love scenes. While a bit uncomfortable for me, and I would say this about overly detailed heterosexual love scenes, they provided a much-needed look into the character of Nick Jameson. His male relationships, and gradual maturation process from sleeping around to finding love, is crucial to the story.

Although I admired the story (and world) the author creates, the constant jumping around in time and the details about the vampire/Sentinel society became overwhelming. I felt bogged down reading it. About halfway through, with my brain packed to capacity, the book started really moving. From that point on, it was a great read full of twists and turns and anxious excitement.

I’d recommend this book to anyone looking for a different take on vampires or readers who love intricately built fictional worlds. Just be prepared to constantly visit the opening glossary and the timeline at the end to keep things straight.

Rating: 3.5 stars

On GoodReads and Amazon, the rating will be listed as a 3 since I believe it’s closer to a 3 than a 4.

About the Author

According to Amazon, Arshad Ahsanuddin is a hematopathologist. The irony of a physician who specializes in blood disease writing a series of vampire novels is not lost upon him. For more information, please visit his website, Pact Arcanum Series.
 
Note: I received a complimentary copy to review from World Literary Café. A positive review was not guaranteed or requested; the views expressed are my own.

Ape House, Sara Gruen (3.5 stars)

From Amazon: Isabel Duncan, a scientist at the Great Ape Language Lab, doesn't understand people, but apes she gets—especially the bonobos Sam, Bonzi, Lola, Mbongo, Jelani, and Makena, who are capable of reason and communication through American Sign Language. Isabel feels more comfortable in their world than she's ever felt among humans—until she meets John Thigpen, a very married reporter writing a human interest feature. But when an explosion rocks the lab, John's piece turns into the story of a lifetime—and Isabel must connect with her own kind to save her family of apes from a new form of human exploitation.

It’s hard not to judge a book by the author’s others, and that’s what happened with Ape House. Had I read it before Water for Elephants, I might have felt differently. Each book had some of the same themes, and Water for Elephants was the better showcase of Sara Gruen’s storytelling talents. 

Isabel Duncan is dedicated to her bonobo family both on a scientific level and a personal one. Unfortunately, she’s up against misguided people worried about the ethical treatment of the animals and some money-hungry individuals.

Everything comes crashing down when the lab is attacked and Isabel ends up in the hospital with horrible injuries. While she’s recuperating, the bonobos are sold to the highest bidder and end up on a reality show, Ape House. John is a reporter assigned to the case, but becomes much more involved when he connects with Isabel and the bonobos.  

If the story had remained centered on the bonobos and Isabel, this would be a 4- to 5-star read. Unfortunately, it veered off course with too much focus on John’s wife, Amanda, and his possible child from a fling years earlier.

From the front cover, “A tale that’s full of heart, hope, and compelling questions about who we really are.” (Redbook) I don’t disagree; it was all of these things. But I found myself disconnecting when it wasn’t about Isabel. I wanted more detail about her family issues and devotion to these wonderful creatures.

If you love animals and enjoy a quick, interesting read, pick this up and plan to skim some parts. The meat of the story is wonderful and worth your time.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Note: On GoodReads and Amazon, I will rate it 3 stars, because it is closer to 3 than 4.

The Quaker State Affair, Dan Romain (4 stars)

The Quaker State Affair Book Summary

What happens when “some day” finally arrives?

A mysterious explosion in Taiwan. Nuclear secrets stolen from Los Alamos. China’s manifest destiny at hand.

In the near future, America and China go head-to-head in a battle of technological bluffs, setting in motion a chain of events that could lead to skyrocketing oil prices, the end of the dollar, the American way of life, and the republic itself. The only man who might have an answer in the midst of the international crisis is Patrick “Mac” McDaniels, a world-renowned physicist who wants nothing to do with the government. Has he been conducting revolutionary energy research in secret? And if so, will McDaniels be America’s salvation—or its ruin?

Review

Have you ever freaked out listening to the news, political analysts, or economists? What if all their worst fears, and yours, started coming true?

Patrick "Mac" McDaniels, a brilliant scientist compared to the likes of Einstein, went into hiding after working on a government project that he knew could lead the world down a devastating path... the Quaker State project. When his worst fears start playing out, the government forces him back in the game.

With each page turn, the action and fear intensify. Dan Romain builds tension with each expertly revealed development in the China-U.S. standoff, giving the reader everything from political intrigue to scientific and economic escalations. There is never a moment to catch your breath.

The most frightening part of the story... how realistic and possible it all is. Even the conspiracy theories of Mac's friend, Ben, never seem all that far fetched.

Dialogue and action rich, I do wish there was more character development and a closer look into the growing attraction between Mac and Agent Connie Barlow. But the fast pace keeps the reader so engaged, he/she will only notice this at the end. Even then, the odds are the reader will be thinking just how close to this type of mess we really are to care much about individual characters.

One thing's for sure, we all might want to reevaluate where we see this country going and what we consider progress.

I highly recommend this story to anyone who loves a fast-paced, action-filled tale overflowing with scientific theories and behind-the-scenes political machinations. If you like a movie running in your head the whole time you are reading, this book's for you (and more likely a 5-star read).

A special kudos to the author for letting the unimaginable happen, versus having the hero save the day in the nick of time. There's hope in the end, but no clear cut victory.

As much as I enjoyed the book, I did want more insight into the characters inner thoughts and backgrounds. Maybe the book should come with the corresponding FBI files on each character; or, better yet, I'm hoping for a sequel highlighting Connie and Mac (and Mac's protege, Adam Hobbs).

Rating: 4 stars

About Dan Romain:

Dan Romain is a nationally recognized business consultant who built one of the most successful insurance firms in the country. A graduate of the University of Washington with a bachelor’s degree in economics and a member of the Omicron Delta Epsilon International Economics Society, he currently resides in Seattle, Washington, with his wife, Lori, their two children, Danielle and Brian, and their black Labrador, Kona. He has been widely credited as one of the few who accurately predicted the economic melt down.

For more information on the book and author

The Quaker State Affair website

Dan Romain's business website

The Quaker State Affair blog tour site

Available at Amazon

Note: I received a complimentary copy from Tribute Books for review purposes. No other compensation was received. A positive review was not guaranteed or asked for; the views expressed are my own.

For more information on Tribute Books and their blog tours, please visit their website and/or on Facebook and Twitter.

ReVamped (Angel Creek, #1), Ada Adams (4.5 stars)

Exciting News First:

Ada Adams has graciously agreed to give away a Kindle copy of the book along with a bookmark. Please leave your name and email address in the comment section below by 1:00pm EST on Friday, 4/20/12, for your chance to win. I will draw a name out of a hat tomorrow afternoon and post the winner's name.

*****

Now for the review:

From Amazon: Nineteen-year-old vampire Dawn has led a sheltered life within the confines of her father’s presidential headquarters. Upon being sent on a mission to revamp four goofy misfits into guardians of a peaceful little town of Angel Creek, Dawn believes that all her dreams have finally come true. What starts off as a simple task, turns into something unexpected, changing Dawn’s life forever and leading the action-loving, thrill-seeking vampire teen on a path of mystery, danger and intrigue.

When a human girl is kidnapped by a group of rogue vamps, Dawn discovers that there is more going on in Angel Creek than meets the eye. And it all connects to Ethan, the cute newcomer who seems too perfect to be true, Sebastian, the mysterious vampire with a turbulent past, and even Dawn herself. Dawn must not only succeed in revamping the troubled recruits, but must also prevent the vampire race from being overtaken by a malevolent villain who has a strange and obsessive fascination with her. As threat escalates, romance blooms, and ghosts from her past begin to surface, Dawn is sure of only one thing: her life will never be the same.

For anyone who is feeling uninspired by paranormal novels or anything vampire, take a chance on ReVamped. The author infuses renewed energy, witty humor, and some nice twists to the standard vampire formula.

Dawn is the daughter of the current vampire President. Yes, vampires are part of society now, not that everyone is happy about it. Dawn is a special breed of vampires, a Born. Born of a vampire mother, Borns have increased strength and abilities, above that of any Made vampire, but are still partly human. In any given generation, only about five vampires are born.

Dawn's father sends her to Angel Creek to train a new group of vampires to be the town's protectors. Unfortunately the previous vampire crew left the town to pursue fame and fortune on shows such as the Next Vamp Idol and Transylvania Shore. Dawn is thrilled that her father believes in her and excited for a mission, but what she doesn't know is that this town holds the key to learning all the secrets about her past.

When Dawn gets to town, she realizes her mission is much harder than it first appeared. The vampire crew is inexperienced at best, and there's a vampire in town that seems offended by her very presence.

The story takes some very interesting turns, and I don't want to give anything away here. Let me just say that there are enemies lurking everywhere, both human and vampire.

I really enjoyed how the author played with vampire folklore and injected humor into the action and romance. The action and intrigue start from word one and never let up. But don't worry, there's a brewing romance and quite the ending... you'll definitely be anticipating Angel Creek, #2.

Dawn is a well-developed and interesting character, strong but human-like in her approach to life. But her vampire crew and potential love interests are just as interesting. If a character appears, they have importance for the story and Dawn's life. I only wish there would have been some more insight into the werewolves and more of a payoff for Dawn and Sebastian. Hopefully in #2.

With this debut novel, Ada Adams breathes new life into the paranormal/vampire genre. I am excited to see what comes next.

Rating: 4.5 stars

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.

For more information, please visit the author's website and the book's site.

*****

Don't forget to leave your name and email address in the comments for a chance to win a Kindle copy of ReVamped and a bookmark. The deadline for entries will be tomorrow, 4/20, at 1:00pm EST. Good luck!

Jennifer's Garden, Dianne Venetta (3 stars)

From Amazon: In a race against time, cardiologist Jennifer Hamilton is caught between her mother's dying wish and taking the risk of a lifetime with Jackson Montgomery. He's the man hired to complete the landscaping for her new home; the venue for her upcoming wedding. He's everything she never wanted in a man, but his lure pulls strong, putting her career on the line . . .

Jennifer Hamilton advises people how to take care of their hearts for a living, but can she protect hers? Facing losing her mom, and only family, Jennifer doesn't want to be left alone. Her fiance is just the steady safety net she needs; the fact that he doesn't cause her toes to curl is a minor flaw in the scheme of things.

Not so according to her best friend, Sam. Sam, driven by heat and desire, wants more for Jennifer. Cue Jackson Montgomery, sexy bartender and landscaper. Jax is a man who embraces life and encourages people to live their garden.

With each passing day, Jennifer finds herself more drawn to Jax and less sure of her safe plans, and I found myself rooting for her to go for it.

Some of my favorite books explore female relationships, so I particularly enjoyed Jennifer with her mom and Sam. Maybe because I read Dianne Venetta's Lust on the Rocks first, where Sam is the main character, I was drawn to Sam's character and her free spirited ways throughout. Jax and Jennifer had rooting value, but I wanted more heat sooner.

The writing is engaging, the characters are well-developed, and the romance believable. Venetta has a breeziness to her writing that draws you in and makes you feel at home. I just found her Lust on the Rocks more exciting and memorable. It was the choice between heat and comfort, and I liked the heat but certainly understand there are times for comfort.

(My complete review of Lust on the Rocks can be found here.)

Rating: 3 stars

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes from A Cozy Reader’s Corner Reviews. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own. This review is part of a blog tour.

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Until Next Time, Amy Lignor (4.5 stars)

Until Next Time: The Angel Chronicles, Book 1 Summary

How does a girl choose between the one who steals her heart and the one who owns her soul?

Matt and Emily were created for a specific job. Raised and trained as the ultimate angel/warrior team, they are sent down to save, defend, judge and forgive, depending on the 'life' they've been assigned. What they don't realize is that the power of human emotions, such as love, anger, passion and fear can take over even the best of souls, causing them to make mistakes and follow paths that lead to confusion and heartache.

When the reason for their training is finally revealed, the angel/warrior team find themselves thrust into a world they know nothing about. Matt takes over the life of Daniel, a young man with a great deal of baggage. Emily becomes Liz, a girl living in a remote village who relies on nothing more than her own strength to survive. A violent storm erupts one night, and framed in the window of Liz's establishment is a frightening face. Let in by the soul of a Good Samaritan, the two visitors bring with them a past full of secrets that could literally change an angel's path and a warrior's plans.

From murder to redemption, this angel/warrior team must find a way to keep the faith they have in each other in a world that's ripping them apart.

For more information, visit The Angel Chronicles website or on Facebook.

Review

Torn between two men and struggling with parts of herself, Emily is an angel with a purpose. She, along with her warrior counterpart, is sent back to Earth to save others. On Earth as Liz, she doesn't fully realize her angel side at first. She struggles with her faith and a feeling of being torn.

I fell in love with Emily, both as an angel and as Liz, and the intriguing concept of this book--that the Saints and angels above want to better understand what about the human condition sways us from faith, makes us hardened. Emily's journey (as Liz) through the trials and tribulations of humans was compelling and thought-provoking.

I am drawn to strong female characters, and this story gives you two for the price of one. Emily becomes a better version of herself by having been Liz. She loves two men, and knows she always will. Throw out any preconceived notions you have about white-as-snow angels, because there's an interesting complexity to both Emily and Matt as angels. Making them human only adds to the depth of the characters and the story.

Plus, there's the added benefit of two unique , yet intertwined, stories playing out. Each was equally engaging. I would become so engrossed with Emily's tale, I wouldn't want to switch back to Liz. Then, I wouldn't want to leave Liz's tale.

I highly recommend this book to readers who search for a strong, memorable female character and a deep story with heart and purpose. Just don't give up during the more convoluted and confusing parts. The journey is worth any stumbling blocks. I, for one, can't wait to read the next in the series.

The more I digested this novel, the more I came to appreciate it. It'll stay with you. By the end, it is a 5-star read.

Rating: 4.5 stars

About Amy Lignor:

Amy Lignor began her career at Grey House Publishing in northwest Connecticut where she was the Editor-in-Chief of numerous educational and business directories.

Now she is a published author of several works of fiction. The Billy the Kid historical The Heart of a Legend; the thriller, Mind Made; and the adventure novel, Tallent & Lowery 13.

She is also the owner of The Write Companion, a company that offers help and support to writers through a full range of editorial services from proofreading and copyediting to ghostwriting and research. As the daughter of a research librarian, she is also an active book reviewer.

Currently, she lives with her daughter, mother and a rambunctious German Shepherd named Reuben, in the beautiful state of New Mexico.

For more information on the author

Blog

Website

Facebook

Twitter

GoodReads

Buy Until Next Time

Kindle

Nook

Smashwords

PDF

Note: I received a complimentary copy from Tribute Books for review purposes. No other compensation was received. A positive review was not guaranteed or asked for; the views expressed are my own.

For more information on Tribute Books, please visit their website, on Facebook, and on Twitter.

The Spirit Keeper, Melissa Luznicky Garrett (5 stars)

Please welcome a special guest reviewer today… my daughter, Jackie Bach. Jackie loves to read. It’s a gift I’m proud to have given her, since she always sees her Mom’s nose in a book.

Jackie will be 12 in May, and she’s a sixth grader. Her favorite authors include: Tamora Pierce, Rick Riordan, Suzanne Collins, and Cassandra Clare. But now she is adding a new author to her list, Melissa Luznicky Garrett.

*****

From Amazon: After her mother and grandparents die in a raging house fire, eleven-year-old Sarah Redbird ends up in the custody of her aunt and uncle. Six years later, Sarah discovers the fire may not have been an accident at all, but a deliberate act of revenge.

Sarah's family has kept the truth of their Native American heritage secret her entire life, refusing to acknowledge where they came from. But when a family that has direct ties to their past moves to town, Sarah's true identity is revealed.

What Sarah soon learns is that some secrets are better left unspoken.

My family and I were traveling home yesterday from spring break, and I had just finished my mom’s book, Depression Cookies (look for my review of that in a few days), before the flight. I asked Mom if she had anything I could read. She handed me her Kindle with The Spirit Keeper.

I have a definite taste in books. I prefer fantasy and paranormal. Mom keeps trying to get me to read other genres, so I wasn’t so sure when she offered me this book. I’m so glad I trusted her, because I really loved Spirit Keeper.

I read this book in a few hours. Mom asked if I would write a review. I don’t really know what to say, but I can tell you it was an awesome book. Mom said I needed to write more than that, so she asked me a few questions.

What’s the book about?

The main character, Sarah, starts out clueless as to who she really is.  She is being raised by her aunt and uncle since her Mom and grandparents died in a fire. She doesn’t know her dad, but she thinks she’s seen him in a dream.

When new neighbors move in, Sarah’s Aunt and Uncle tell her about her heritage. Sarah is from the earthly children born of the Sun and Moon. The Sun and the Moon had two children, Ka-mut and Kai.

Ka-mut, who was evil, bewitched a young lady who gave him six sons. They each became leaders of their own tribe and passed evil through their bloodlines.

Kai, who was good, choose a man and they had a daughter, Katori. The Sun and Moon blessed Katori with the ability to control the five elements, the most important was Spirit.

Sarah’s aunt and uncle had wanted to protect her from people who might want to harm her because her bloodline is mixed.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Sarah, because I’d want to be friends with her in real life. She is always supportive of her friend, Priscilla, and she’s strong. I know if I was ever bullied, Sarah would stand up for me. In the book, she stands up for herself and her friends.

What was your favorite scene in the book?

When Victor Hunt, Sarah’s neighbor, comes after Sarah because he wants revenge for something her family did. Mom says I can’t give away too much, but this is when Sarah finds out her true power.

Now I have a question… when is the next book in the series, The Seventh Tribe, coming out? I’m really looking forward to it!!

Rating: 5 stars

Note from Mom: I kept asking Jackie what she thought of the book while we were on the plane. She just kept waving me off, never lifting her eyes from the Kindle. I even had to order her drink for her.

She has me very excited to read and review it.

For more information, please visit Melissa’s blog, Someday, When I’m Famous.

My review of Melissa’s first young adult book, Turning Point, can be found here.

The Morning After, Sally Clements (3.5 stars)

From Amazon: One photo changes everything... A mortifying incident in her youth has shaken sense into Cara Byrne. No more bad-boys. No more getting arrested. Instead, hard work and good behaviour has earned her a job teaching at the local Boys Secondary School, and a proposal from a worthy man. So what if he doesn't exactly light her fire - surely passion is overrated?

When her friend since childhood, Ethan Quinn, storms back into the small Irish village he left to pursue a career as a Hollywood action hero, she's stunned to discover she's as susceptible to his lethal charm as every woman in the world. And when a compromising photograph floods the media of them in a clinch, her almost fiancé reveals his true colours, CarEthan starts trending on twitter, and she loses her job, could anyone blame her if she accepts his invitation to hide out at his Malibu beach house?

Ethan loves women, but never lets his girlfriends into his heart. He's failed at being there in the past, and won't put his heart on the line for anyone, ever again. But Cara's a different matter - and when passionate attraction is added to his friendship with the one person he's always confided in, he's thrown for a loop. Cara's lost everything, and like it or not, he's responsible. There's no fighting the attraction that blazes between them - but when the month long affair is over, will he ever be able to let her go?

Ever wondered what would happen if you were photographed with a celebrity and the media thought you were an item? Do you fantasize about a Hollywood affair?

Cara and Ethan have been friends for years, without a twinge of anything else until sparks fly at the most inopportune moment. When Ethan helps Cara out of a couple of jams, suggestive pictures end up tabloid fodder since he’s now a Hollywood star. Cara loses her job as a teacher, and worries she’ll never teach again. Feeling protective, Ethan brings her to Malibu to look after her. But he’s also aware of his growing feelings.

They ultimately succumb to their feelings with eyes wide open; they know the other’s faults, but also know they’d never hurt each other. I wanted these two to make it, to build on their tight connection and newfound passion.

Usually I complain when a romance rushes too much in the beginning and doesn’t make me believe two characters are falling for each other. I believed in these characters… I just wanted more story for them, an ending as well-paced and interesting as the beginning. This ending felt rushed.

The writing is engaging, the characters well-developed, and the love scenes sexy. All that was lacking was a bit more satisfying lead up to the conclusion. But please read and enjoy and see if you agree with me about the last quarter of the book. I’m happy to be wrong.

Rating: 3.5 stars

(For GoodReads and Amazon, I rated it 4 stars, since it was closer to a 4 than a 3.)

I reviewed Sally Clements’ novel, Marrying Cade, (a solid 4 stars) here. In my opinion, Sally Clements strikes a better balance in this novel with a bit more sizzle to boot.

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.

Lust on the Rocks, Dianne Venetta (4 stars)

From Amazon: One case away from partnership, Samantha Rawlings is forced to share her high-profile case with a sexy younger man, whose eyes are on a different prize. In the best interests of her client, Sam opens the door to his strategy. Turns out, a little too far...

Victor Marin has ulterior motives. The defendant in her case holds the key to his revenge, and his last chance for justice. But as he chases old demons, he uncovers a powerful woman with no inhibitions, one he wants to possess for himself. But decidedly single, Sam wants no part.

Until Vic walks away.

Samantha is a focused career woman angling to make partner, and Vic is a man bent on revenge. They come together with a combined goal, and heat and desire soon follow. Steamy love scenes and sexy scenery abound.

Thanks to the title, I expected sexy and steamy, and I was not disappointed. What I did not expect were such well-developed and interesting characters. There is nothing one-dimensional about this story.

The author builds the main characters by showing us their other relationships. Vic and his family were devastated by loss, one that defines the man he is now. Then there’s Samantha and her college-aged sister, Jessica. A story within a story is created when Jessica shows up on Samantha’s doorstep pregnant and not sure what to do.

I must admit… I hope there’s a story involving Jessica in the author’s pipeline. She’s young and damaged, but strong. However, I can see where readers could part ways on the pro-life versus pro-choice debate that ensues, even though I thought both sides were represented.

A guilty pleasure with the bonus of character development, I highly recommend it to readers who appreciate both romantic heat and story. Those readers who prefer a more straight-forward and light romance novel might need to skim through the moments of heavier material.

Rating: 4 stars

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes from A Cozy Reader’s Corner Reviews. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own. This review is part of a blog tour.

After the Snow Falls, Carey Jane Clark (4 stars)

From Amazon: In the middle of a soccer drill, in an awful, awkward moment, Celia Bennett's eight-year-old son Caleb lands on his face and chest in the grass. The diagnosis blindsides her, bringing her face-to-face with every parent's worst nightmare.

Desperate to save her son's life, Celia pursues a cure through alternative medicine, but her quest ends in frustration and disappointment. Facing despair, hope walks in on the most unlikely set of legs, when her father returns after a 30-year absence. Can she release pain to embrace hope? Will it make a difference, or is it too late?

Your heart will belong to the Bennett family from page one. Celia Bennett faces something every parent fears the most, the very real possibility of losing her child. As she’s reeling from the news, the father that abandoned her comes back into her life.

The story alternates between the perspectives of Celia and Alfie, her father. At first, Alfie’s story is an unwelcome diversion from finding out more about Celia and Caleb. But it soon becomes clear just how intertwined the two stories are.

Celia goes through a roller coaster of emotions. The reader follows her from diagnosis to considering alternative medicine, to meeting a parent going through the same thing, and finally to questioning her religious beliefs. There were times I was so entranced by the story that I heard the doctor’s footsteps coming down the hall and cried right along with Celia.

I admit I wanted more from Celia’s journey to Mexico, exploring alternative medicine was a great plot point that was wrapped up a bit too quickly. The characters were well-developed and memorable, except for Celia’s best friend, Sarah. I kept waiting for a better explanation for why she wasn’t there for Celia. But these are nit-picky details in an otherwise inspiring novel.

After the Snow Falls is a compelling story of courage, faith, strength, and love full of characters that will stay with you long after the last page. I walked away from this book feeling stronger and blessed, and I’m sure you will, too.

Rating: 4 stars

Note: I received a complimentary copy to review from World Literary Café. A positive review was not guaranteed or requested; the views expressed are my own.

Welcome Russell Blake, author of The Voynich Cypher (5 stars)

I am thrilled to welcome Russell Blake, international bestselling author, today. His newest book, The Voynich Cypher, debuted March 17, 2012. I was fortunate enough to receive a copy to review.

But first, Russell is answering a couple of questions. Welcome, Russell.

In your research for the book, what's the most interesting fact/information you stumbled across?

Boy, this book was research intensive, so that's a tall order. I think I'd have to say that the research into the Voynich Manuscript's authorship was probably the most interesting, as it involved reading dozens of web resources and an entire book on the topic. Of course, the book was wrong in its conclusions about authorship, as carbon dating of the manuscript would make the notional author, Roger Bacon, pre-date the document by over a century. But it was still fascinating reading the history of the Voynich's possession through the ages, much of which is speculative as well. It really is one of the last mysteries out there, and one of the most enduring.

What book has most influenced your writing and why?

Day of the Jackal, by Frederick Forsyth. Why? Because up until that book came out, thriller fiction was mostly cartoonish - sort of the Ian Fleming brand where tough guy superagents were bigger than life, bedded beauties at every turn, and had bullets bounce off them. Jackal changed that. It singlehandedly introduced realism in the genre, and changed everything. It's one of my favorite books, still, for that reason.

Having said that, I would also give a nod to Foucault's Pendulum by Umberto Eco, and of course Angels and Demons, The Da Vinci Code, and half of Clive Cussler's novels - when it comes to my latest, The Voynich Cypher. That book is a departure for me, and pays homage to those types of treasure hunt novels. It was a fun departure from my typical conspiracy theory driven novels, although I managed to work in a conspiracy to drive the story.

Thanks for stopping by, Russell.

And without further ado, the review…

From Amazon: When a sacred relic is stolen from its subterranean guarded vault, Dr. Steven Cross, amateur cryptographer, becomes embroiled in a deadly quest to decipher one of history's most enigmatic documents - a 15th century parchment written entirely in unbreakable code; The Voynich Manuscript. Stalked by secret societies, and aided by the daughter of a murdered colleague, a trail of riddles catapults Cross from England to Italy to the Middle East, where a Byzantine web of ancient secrets leads him to a revelation so profound it will change the world order.

Thanks to my husband, I knew just how good this book really was. Sure, I would have enjoyed it. What’s not to like? There’s intrigue, danger, romance, mystery, emotion, and so on. From the first word to the last, you’ll be hooked. But without hubby’s previous book recommendations, I wouldn’t have known it was as good as novels by Clive Cussler and Dan Brown.

Dr. Steven Cross goes from decoding as a hobby to a world-wide adventure that puts his life in danger. Enter Natalie Twain, a woman of mystery who is quite capable of taking care of herself. But her father’s been murdered, and she needs Dr. Cross to translate The Voynich Manuscript. She has the key to doing so, but will the bad guys get to them first?

Action abounds, but the author never sacrifices character development for pulse-pounding thrills. Instead he gives us both. The twists and turns left me constantly guessing what would happen next and who the main characters could trust.

If you have read and loved Cussler and/or Brown, you’ll love The Voynich Cypher. My husband is quite eager to get his hands on it. But don’t worry, ladies, it’s not only for the guys.

Rating: 5 stars

For more information on Russell Blake and his novels, please visit his website. 

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes (thanks to the World Literary Café Review team). A positive review was not asked for or guaranteed. The opinions expressed are my own.