The Lost Island

Gideon Crew--brilliant scientist, master thief--is living on borrowed time. When his mysterious employer, Eli Glinn, gives him an eyebrow-raising mission, he has no reason to refuse. Gideon's task: steal a page from the priceless Book of Kells, now on display in New York City and protected by unbreakable security. Accomplishing the impossible, Gideon steals the parchment--only to learn that hidden beneath the gorgeously illuminated image is a treasure map dating back to the time of the ancient Greeks. As they ponder the strange map, they realize that the treasure it leads to is no ordinary fortune. It is something far more precious: an amazing discovery that could perhaps even save Gideon's life.

Together with his new partner, Amy, Gideon follows a trail of cryptic clues to an unknown island in a remote corner of the Caribbean Sea. There, off the hostile and desolate Mosquito Coast, the pair realize the extraordinary treasure they are hunting conceals an even greater shock-a revelation so profound that it may benefit the entire human race . . . if Gideon and Amy can survive.

Gideon is back! In this long awaited third book Gideon is tasked with stealing a page from a historical book that is seemingly impossible to do. But Gideon does what he does best and accomplishes the goal with flare. Once Amy and Gideon set off on the mission the action does not stop. There are quite a few twists and turns, and when the books takes a fantasy turn in the last 1/4 it almost lost me. I stuck with it and was rewarded. I look forward to the next book in the series. David W. Collins did an excellent job narrating the book.

Author: Lincoln Child and Douglas Preston
Published: August 2014
Genre: Suspense/Thriller
Source: Hachette Audio
Finished:


This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Mitch and Hachette Audio and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

Full Blaze + Giveaway

These wilderness firefighters battle more than the flames

The elite fire experts of Mount Hood Aviation fly into places even the CIA can’t penetrate.

She’s just jumped square into the heart of the blaze:

When Australian bush pilot Jeannie Clark winches wildfire photographer Cal Jackson out of a burning hot zone, she doesn’t know she’s bringing aboard a firebrand. Cal is quickly recruited for MHA’s covert operations far beyond national and international firefighting missions. Together Jeannie and Cal are assigned to a wildfire that is being used as a smokescreen for international subterfuge. And they’ll need all the skill, love, and trust they can muster if they’re going to survive the heat of this jungle.

I loved the Night Stalker series and was a bit apprehensive about this new series. Much to my surprise a few beloved characters from Night Stalkers are in this book as well as those from the first book. Both Cal and Jeannie are immediately endearing and get along well. Their chemistry lights up the pages. The author includes a lot of technical information, but in an easy to read/learn style that does not overpower the story.  Mr. Buchman does such a great job with strong female characters with plenty of action and romance. Thoroughly enjoyable.  

M. L. Buchman has over 25 novels in print. His military romantic suspense books have been named Barnes & Noble and NPR “Top 5 of the year” and Booklist “Top 10 of the Year.” In addition to romance, he also writes contemporaries, thrillers, and fantasy and science fiction.

In among his career as a corporate project manager he has: rebuilt and single-handed a fifty-foot sailboat, both flown and jumped out of airplanes, designed and built two houses, and bicycled solo around the world.

He is now a full-time writer, living on the Oregon Coast with his beloved wife. He is constantly amazed at what you can do with a degree in Geophysics.

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Excerpt

Cal enjoyed the ride as they flew high over Santa Barbara, the Pacific Ocean stretching out to fill the horizon as they approached it. Jeannie had left him feeling immensely mellow. He’d never been with anyone who responded to him with such heat, nor offered it right back. And usually heat left him simply greedy for more. Jeannie doused the fires in him just as effectively as she did with her chopper, as if she’d somehow washed his insides clean as well.

Tell her, you idiot.

“You’re an incredible woman, Jeannie Clark of the dark-red hair.” He watched her as she checked something on her instrument panel, then adjusted their heading, ushc a tiny shift that he knew it was a delaying tactic. It was okay, he could wait. There were only the two of them and a breathtaking morning light aboard Jeannie’s Firehawk.

“Why?”

“Let’s see. Chronological or order of importance?”

“Give me a break, Hotshot.”

“Not a chance, Helitack. I could start by enumerating your womanly curves and just how much I enjoyed them last night.”

“And this morning.”

“Reverse chronological, then since we’re covering last night.”

She puttered and turned to glare at him.

“Watch your heading, Helitack,” he ordered her, though she hadn’t wiggled off her flight path in the slightest.

She continued to glare for a long moment before abruptly laughing and turning back forward.

Damn! Why were both of his cameras in the bag? That laugh had lit her up brighter than the morning sun. It was the first time he’d heard it up close rather than across half a camp, and it transformed her from merely incredible to downright magnificent. What in the hell was he doing presuming to even be aboard this woman’s chopper? He had no more qualifications to be here than… Cut it out, Cal. She invited you. That’s enough. Enough for now, anyway.

This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Sourcebooks/NetGalley and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

Full Throttle

She Needs a Hero…

Abby Thompson may be the daughter of the President of the United States, but she’s more than content to leave the politics and the international intrigue to her father. Unfortunately, the most powerful man on the planet is sure to make enemies. When a group of armed thugs takes her hostage half a world away, she fears her father’s policy of “not negotiating with terrorists” means she’ll never see the shores of the Potomac again. Luckily, there’s one glimmer of hope. His name is Carlos Soto. And though she broke his heart eight years ago, he’s the only man who can save her…

Black Knights, Inc. to the Rescue…

Carlos “Steady” Soto has taken part in his fair share of dangerous missions working for the covert government defense firm of Black Knights Inc. But nothing has prepared him for the emotional rollercoaster he faces when he’s tasked with rescuing the only woman he ever loved. Racing against time and outmaneuvering a group of trained terrorists will take everything he’s got. And to complicate matters, the heat simmering between him and Abby keeps threatening to ignite into an inferno. While ruthless enemies stalk them, they must learn to trust each other again. But if they make it out alive, will Abby turn her back on him… for the second time?

Abby has had a crush on Carlos since she was 18. After his sister dies, both of their lives take a different path.  When they reunite sparks fly, but when Abby gets abducted things get serious, and they are on the run for their lives. I've enjoyed this series, and loved catching up with Dan and Ozzie. Hope both of them get their own stories.  Plenty of action, adventure, humor and romance.

Julie Ann Walker is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of award-winning romantic suspense. She has won the Book Buyers Best Award, been nominated for the National Readers Choice Award, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Romance Writers of America's prestigious RITA award. Her latest release was named a Top Ten Romance of 2014 by Booklist. Her books have been described as "alpha, edgy, and downright hot." Most days you can find her on her bicycle along the lake shore in Chicago or blasting away at her keyboard, trying to wrangle her capricious imagination into submission.

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Excerpt

So far, so good…

The hum of the Ducati was reassuring, as was Abby’s tightened grip around Steady’s waist. They were riding down the devil’s own washed--out, rutted, rock--filled hell of a rubber tree logging road, and for the first ten minutes of the harrowing journey, while she’d still been suffering the lingering effects of the sedative, it was just as difficult to keep her on the bike as it was to navigate the frackin’ jungle track.

But now they were clipping along at a steady, if decidedly slow, pace. No JI goons could be seen in his rearview mirrors—-though it was hard to tell exactly, given the fact that the forest encroached from both sides and above. And if his calculations were correct, a half hour or so more should see them entering the lovely kingdom of Thailand.

See, he wished he could call and tell Dan, sometimes it’s better to Lone Wolf McQuade things…

Abby squirmed against his back, interrupting his thoughts and alerting him to the feel of her supple thighs pressed against the outsides of his hips and legs. Which, in turn, immediately focused his attention on her soft breasts—-and distended nipples?—-grazing his back.

Okay, so who was he kidding? Like he hadn’t been keenly aware of each of those things since the first moment. Even while worming his way through the dense undergrowth of ferns and vines after escaping the encampment and hiking back to the Ducati, he’d been hard--pressed to concentrate on anything other than the feel of Abby squeezed all nice and tight against him. Abby’s soft skin touching his. Abby’s sweet smell—-even sweaty and bedraggled, she still emanated a soft cloud of dryer sheets and cocoa butter lotion—-filling his nose and making his head spin.


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This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Sourcebooks and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

The Girl With All The Gifts

Every morning, Melanie waits in her cell to be collected for class. Sergeant keeps his gun pointing at her while two of his people strap her into the wheelchair. Melanie loves school. She tells her favorite teacher all the things she'll do when she grows up. Melanie doesn't know why this makes Miss Justineau look sad.

This story is hard to describe and is best not knowing much about it before reading/listening. It is gripping, amazing with many "that so did not just happen" moments. It is dystopian with suspense, wrapped up in an emotional ending that makes you want to read it all over. Brilliantly narrated by Finty Williams.

This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Mitch and Hachette Audioand in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

Short Audios

Holy Frigging Matrimony by Emma Chase

Marriage: the final frontier. Steven went first. He was kind of our test subject. Like those monkeys that NASA sent off into space in the fifties, all the while knowing they’d never make it back.

And now another poor rocket is ready to launch.

But this isn’t just any posh New York wedding. You’ve seen my friends, you’ve met our families, you know you're in for a treat. Everyone wants their wedding to be memorable. This one’s going to be un-frigging-forgettable.

I choose this audio based on the narrator alone. I had no clue what this short story would be about or that it is part of a series. Holy frigging hilarious! Drew and Kate are attending a wedding of friends. Told in Drew's unapologetic, witty, one-liner, absolutely laugh out-loud voice. What happens at the wedding is so funny and out of control that I hope Drew gets it right back at his own wedding. Sebastian York, of course, does a fantastic job on this quick 52 minute listen.  I will listen again when I need a good laugh. 

Sweet Filthy Morning After by Christina Lauren

After a crazy Vegas weekend celebrating her college graduation—and terrified of the future path she knows is a cop-out—Mia Holland makes the wildest decision of her life: follow Ansel Guillaume—her sweet, filthy fling—to France for the summer and just…play.

This 30 minute audio is a section of Sweet Filthy Boy from Ansel's point of view. Ansel is from France in Vegas with friends and meets Mia. Listening to Jason Carpenter narrate Ansel's POV with ear candy french accent made me fall in love with him all over.

This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Simon and Schuster Audio and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

Hopeless and Finding Cinderella

Would you rather know a truth that makes you feel hopeless, or keep believing the lies?

Beloved and bestselling author Colleen Hoover returns with the spellbinding story of two young people with devastating pasts who embark on a passionate, intriguing journey to discover the lessons of life, love, trust—and above all, the healing power that only truth can bring.

Sky, a senior in high school, meets Dean Holder, a guy with a promiscuous reputation that rivals her own. From their very first encounter, he terrifies and captivates her. Something about him sparks memories of her deeply troubled past, a time she’s tried so hard to bury. Though Sky is determined to stay far away from him, his unwavering pursuit and enigmatic smile break down her defenses and the intensity of the bond between them grows. But the mysterious Holder has been keeping secrets of his own, and once they are revealed, Sky is changed forever and her ability to trust may be a casualty of the truth.

Only by courageously facing the stark revelations can Sky and Holder hope to heal their emotional scars and find a way to live and love without boundaries. Hopeless is a novel that will leave you breathless, entranced, and remembering your own first love.

A chance encounter in the dark leads eighteen-year-old Daniel and the girl who stumbles across him to profess their love for each other. But this love has conditions: they agree it will last only one hour, and it will be only make-believe.

When their hour is up and the girl rushes off like Cinderella, Daniel tries to convince himself that what happened between them seemed perfect only because they were pretending it was. Moments like that happen only in fairy tales.

One year and one bad relationship later, his disbelief in love-at-first-sight is stripped away the day he meets Six: a girl with a strange name and an even stranger personality. Unfortunately for Daniel, finding true love doesn’t guarantee a happily ever after . . . it only further threatens it.

Will an unbearable secret from the past jeopardize Daniel and Six’s only chance at saving each other?

My first Colleen Hoover book was Maybe Someday on audio. I was blown away by how much I enjoyed this new adult book and quickly looked for her other book. I read/listened to both books without knowing what they were about which added to these stories. Hopeless was amazing as it unfolded slowly with a couple of surprises. I loved Holden and Sky immediately. Finding Cinderella features Six, Sky's best friend and Daniel, Holden's best friend. I had to suspend belief about the unbearable secret in order to enjoy this book. I thought it would have been better without that secret (could be my age). It was narrated by Jason Carpenter.

This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Simon and Schuster Audio and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

The McCauley Brothers

IT’S NOT EASY BEING RIGHT

Vanessa Campbell is a CPA by day and a perfectionist by night. She’s fit, successful…and decidedly lonely. She can’t stop thinking about the youngest McCauley brother, Cameron. He’s just like her: smart, attractive, and usually right-except when dealing with her.

…BUT SOMEONE’S GOT TO DO IT

Cameron McCauley likes Vanessa a little too well. She’s a blond goddess with a razor-sharp tongue. She hates to be wrong, just like him. But she can hold a grudge and is stubborn to a fault-also like him.

A past misunderstanding has them rubbing each other the wrong way. Cam is dying to shake Vanessa up-get her to let loose. But if he succeeds, can his heart handle it?

Book three in the McCauley Brothers series.  Vanessa and Cam had great chemistry, and it was enjoyable to watch Vanessa learn she doesn't always have to be right!  The relationship between the brothers was fleshed out more in this book.  The scene between Mike and Cam was priceless. This was my favorite book of the series. 

WHAT IS WITH MIKE McCAULEY?

Every time Delilah Webster runs into Mike McCauley, he practically bites her head off. The rough-and-tumble contractor clearly has baggage. Del has her own emotional scars and knows she’s better off keeping her distance, but Mike’s temptation in jeans and a T-shirt and she’s always been good with her hands…

There’s something about the strong-willed mechanic that sets Mike’s motor running–and scares the hell out of him. Mike has loved and lost and will never hurt like that again, even if that means walking away from a woman who makes him feel alive for the first time in years.

We meet Delilah in book two and know she is going to upset one of the brothers!  I loved her character and was looking forward to her story.  I was put off a bit by Mike as I did not see him as he was characterized in this novel in the previous novels.  However, how he dealt with his wife's loss and moving forward was tender and emotional.  I loved how his parents got involved. Colin was absolutely hilarious and added so much to the book.
If you like contemporary, sizzling series with a lot of humor this one is definitely for you.

This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Sourcebooks and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

The Matchmaker (audio)

48-year-old Nantucketer Dabney Kimball Beech has always had a gift for matchmaking. Some call her ability mystical, while others - like her husband, celebrated economist John Boxmiller Beech, and her daughter, Agnes, who is clearly engaged to the wrong man - call it meddlesome, but there's no arguing with her results: With 42 happy couples to her credit and all of them still together, Dabney has never been wrong about romance.

Never, that is, except in the case of herself and Clendenin Hughes, the green-eyed boy who took her heart with him long ago when he left the island to pursue his dream of becoming a journalist. Now, after spending 27 years on the other side of the world, Clen is back on Nantucket, and Dabney has never felt so confused, or so alive.

But when tragedy threatens her own second chance, Dabney must face the choices she's made and share painful secrets with her family. Determined to make use of her gift before it's too late, she sets out to find perfect matches for those she loves most.

I discovered Elin's novels by reading The Castaways.  After enjoyed it so much I quickly looked for her previous books.  Elin's books are great for summertime -  this book was saved just for that, but with the early birth of my grandson it took me until now to get to this audio. The story is told in the voices of Dabney, Box, Clem, and Agnes along with a few of the couples that Dabney matched.  Nantucket is a character as well. Without spoiling the major plot, this book was different than what I expected.  I liked the secondary characters better along with the matched couples stories.  Erin Bennett did a fantastic job narrating that kept me engaged in the story.  I  hate to say it, about a loved author, but I may have put this book down if I was reading instead of listening. 

Author: Elin Hilderbrand
Published: July 2014
Genre: Contemporary Women's Fiction
Source: Hachette Audio
Finished: 10/23/14


This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Mitch @Hachette Audio and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

Ugly Love (audio)

When Tate Collins meets airline pilot Miles Archer, she doesn't think it's love at first sight. They wouldn’t even go so far as to consider themselves friends. The only thing Tate and Miles have in common is an undeniable mutual attraction. Once their desires are out in the open, they realize they have the perfect set-up. He doesn’t want love, she doesn’t have time for love, so that just leaves the sex. Their arrangement could be surprisingly seamless, as long as Tate can stick to the only two rules Miles has for her.
 Never ask about the past.
 Don’t expect a future.
 They think they can handle it, but realize almost immediately they can’t handle it at all.
 Hearts get infiltrated.
 Promises get broken.
 Rules get shattered.
Love gets ugly

After listening to my first Colleen Hoover book, Maybe Someday, I knew another book would not be far behind. When offered Ugly Love, I jumped at the opportunity even though I didn't  know anything about the story. Not knowing too much about the story is the way to go into this book. Miles starts out being the kind of guy I would recommend any woman run away from, it was emotional torture finding out why he is the way he is, yet understandable. His story unfolds slowly which adds a bit of suspense to the novel. Tate is easily likeable, a strong independent woman that has plans and the fortitude to carry them out. Something happens when she meets Miles. Grace Grant and Deacon Lee narrated Tate and Miles in alternating chapters. Both were new to me narrators that did an excellent job.  This is a quick listen/read, but don't start unless you have time to devote to the book.

Author: Colleen Hoover
Published: August 2014
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: Simon and Schuster Audio
Finished: 10/8/14


This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Lauren and Simon and Schuster and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

Accidents of Marriage

For Madeline Illica, the love of her husband Ben was her greatest blessing and biggest curse. Brilliant, handsome and charming Ben could turn into a raging bull when crossed—and despite her training as a social worker Maddy was never sure what would cross him. When Ben was in a conciliatory mood they worked on techniques for communication and anger management but on the day of the accident, nothing seemed to help. He was furious at having to drive Maddy to work, the road was wet, and that SUV was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Ben never meant for them to go off the road or for Maddy to go flying through the windshield.

Now she’s on a ventilator in intensive care and no one knows if she’ll reawaken from her coma and, if she does, whether she’ll ever be her old self. Maddy’s family blames Ben. Maddy’s friends blame Ben. The children blame Ben. Ben blames Ben—and he is sick to the pit of his soul over the fear of losing his one true love. Fourteen-year-old Emma sees things a little differently. She desperately misses her mother but misses being a teenager more as she’s forced to pick up the slack from Ben and parent her younger siblings Gracie and Caleb. On the cusp of coming of age, she needs Maddy so she can discuss the hard decisions she’s being forced to make. And her confrontations with her volatile father are growing more heated by the day.

This book grabs you from the first sentences and doesn't let you go even though your emotions are put through the wringer! I like when an author can get me so involved with the characters that I want to reach into the book. The subject matter of emotional abuse through uncontrolled anger is raw, honest and heartbreaking in it's far reaching results. TBI (traumatic brain injury) touched my family 5 years ago, it was devastating, and thankfully recovery was possible. This part of the novel was spot on and it feels like you are right there with Maddy. The novel ends in a realistic way and the characters will stay with you.

RANDY SUSAN MEYERS is the author of The Comfort of Lies and The Murderer’s Daughters and a finalist for the Massachusetts Book Award. Her writing is informed by her work with batterers and victims of domestic violence, as well her experience with youth impacted by street violence. She lives with her husband in Boston, where she teaches writing seminars at the Grub Street Writers’ Center. She is also a frequent contributor to The Huffington Post.  Randy's website.

This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Amanda, Meryl L. Moss Media Relations, Inc., BookTrib and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

No Limits

Cannon Colter is quintessential hero material: chiseled jawline, shredded body—the works. He’s also the guy who rescued Yvette Sweeny from kidnappers, only to put an end to her romantic dreams. These days, she’s older, smarter, determined to face whatever life throws her way. Even the prospect of sharing a house and business with Cannon.

Cannon knew Yvette wanted him three years ago. But she was young—and some things are worth waiting for. Thrown together by her grandfather’s legacy, he realizes how deep Yvette’s scars really go and how much danger lurks in their quiet town. As pent-up desire explodes between them, protecting her becomes the only fight that matters. And he’ll break all the rules to do it….

Book one in the new Ultimate series. Cannon made an appearance in a previous book and I was looking forward to his story. I was a bit intimidated by the MMA subject matter, but it was for nothing. I admired Yvette'd determination not to live as a victim despite how other perceived her.  She returns to her hometown to make a new life and is surprised that Cannon wants to stay and help her. Cannon treats her 

Author: Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a Waldenbooks, Borders, USA TODAY, Publishers Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. She also received the Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy and Contemporary Romance. Lori believes it is important to give back to the community as much as possible, so she routinely arranges events among authors and readers to gather donations for various organizations. Visit her website.




This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from  Amanda, Meryl L. Moss Media Relations, Inc., BookTRib and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

Those Who Wish Me Dead

When 13-year-old Jace Wilson witnesses a brutal murder, he's plunged into a new life, issued a false identity and hidden in a wilderness skills program for troubled teens. The plan is to get Jace off the grid while police find the two killers. The result is the start of a nightmare.

The killers, known as the Blackwell Brothers, are slaughtering anyone who gets in their way in a methodical quest to reach him. Now all that remains between them and the boy are Ethan and Allison Serbin, who run the wilderness survival program; Hannah Faber, who occupies a lonely fire lookout tower; and endless miles of desolate Montana mountains.

The clock is ticking, the mountains are burning, and those who wish Jace Wilson dead are no longer far behind.

An exciting plot driven story that had me looking for excuses to keep listening. The Blackwell brothers were two of the creepiest villains that were just a step behind ramping up the suspense. Jace was a very believable 13 year old who learns quickly the survival skills he will need to keep one step ahead of those who wish him dead. There was a great twist that I did not see coming...then the fire. A great action filled story narrated very well by Robert Petkoff.  Will be looking for more from this author!

Author: Michael Koryta
Published: June 2014
Pages:  400
Genre: Suspense/Thriller
Source: Hachette Audio
Finished: 9/14/14



This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Mitch and Hachette Audio and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

The Gamble

Nina Sheridan's on a timeout adventure in the Colorado mountains. She needs distance from her clueless fiance, distance to decide whether she wants to spend the rest of her life with a man who doesn't care enough to learn how she takes her coffee.

Arriving in a blinding snowstorm at the A-Frame she rented for two weeks, she comes face to face with the most amazing man she's ever seen.

Minutes later, when he kicks her out of his house, she goes head to head with him.

Beyond angry because she's flown half a world away to start her timeout adventure, not to mention her sinuses hurt, she heads back down the mountain and ends up in a ditch. Unable to extricate herself, she gives up, hopes for rescue and falls asleep in the backseat.

The next morning she wakes up in the amazing man's bed and she's sick as a dog.

Holden Maxwell spends days nursing her back to health and then he spends the next two weeks trying to convince her to take her Colorado adventure further, in other words, make it permanent and take a gamble on him.

Nina has a tough time fighting her attraction to Max, especially when it seems all Max's friends, her mother, step dad and the whole town of Gnaw Bone want them together. Not to mention, both she and Max get embroiled in the murder of Max's ex-friend and the town of Gnaw Bone's most detested resident - a man everyone has motive to kill, especially Max.

Book one in the Colorado Mountain series got off to an interesting start.  I liked Nina at first, but she easily got on my nerves - for a smart woman she had some really dumb conclusions and would run off without talking to Max about them.  It happened one too many times! I did like the supporting characters and cared enough about the story/characters to continue listening.  Emma Taylor did a great job narrating this cast of characters. I did get tired of the profanity, I thought it was overdone.  The chemistry between Nina and Max was great.  Overall it was an okay listen for me.

Author: Kristin Ashley
Published: Dec. 2012 (print) May 2014 (audio)
Pages: 679 (25 hours)
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: Hachette Audio
Finished: 9/6/14


This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Mitch at Hachette Audio and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

The Competition

THE COMPETITION

A Rachel Knight Novel

by Marcia Clark

There’s no denying that Clark is a brilliant storyteller who works readers the way an expert trial lawyer works a jury. THE COMPETITION, her most assured novel in the Rachel Knight series, is a powerful testament to the fact that Clark is at the top of her game.

It’s every parent’s worst nightmare. A Columbine-style massacre in a crowded high school has left the community shocked to its core. Two students are identified as the killers. Both are dead, believed to have committed a mutual suicide.

But in the aftermath, as LA Special Trials prosecutor Rachel Knight and Detective Bailey Keller dig deeper, they realize that the pieces don’t fit together. Did the shooters really kill themselves, or are they still on the loose? When someone starts dropping clues that another horrific crime is in the works, Rachel and Bailey desperately scramble to identify their suspects before it’s too late.

.

This is book 4 in the Rachel Knight series.  It stands alone well, but do yourself a favor and read the previous books.  The book gets off to a chilling start that ramps up as Rachel and Bailey investigate.  Each piece of evidence they uncover gets them closer to the truth, but the perpetrator seems to be a few steps ahead of them. Page turning suspense with a couple of twists that keeps you riveted. The relationship between Rachel, Bailey and friends provides relief from the intense subject matter.  

Marcia Clark is a former Los Angeles deputy district attorney who was the lead prosecutor on the O. J. Simpson murder case. She co wrote a bestselling nonfiction book about the trial, Without a Doubt, and is a frequent commentator on legal issues in high-profile trials for CNN/HLN, MSNBC, NBC, and ABC. Clark has published two short stories and three previous novels that feature Los Angeles Special Trials prosecutor Rachel Knight: Guilt by Association, Guilt by Degrees, and Killer Ambition. 

This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Helen and Little Brown and Co. and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

How to Lose A Lord in 10 Days or Less

He’s the perfect gentleman…

After years hidden away from the mockery of the Ton, proud Andrew Clifton, Lord Amberstall, is finally ready to face Society again. But when his horse is injured on the road to London, Andrew finds himself literally thrown at the feet of the beautiful, infuriating, and undeniably eccentric Katie Moore.

…she’s anything but a lady.

Katie always preferred the stables to society, so when she was badly injured in a riding accident, she was more than happy to retreat to the countryside and give up the marriage mart for good. She never expected an infuriatingly proper lord to come tumbling into her life—and she certainly never expected to find herself wondering what it would be like to rejoin the world at his side. They couldn’t be more different, and soon Andrew and Katie find themselves at odds about everything but the growing passion between them…and a keen awareness of a threat that may end their unconventional romance before it has even begun.

Book three in the Tricks of the Ton series that includes Must Love Dukes and Desperately Seeking Suzanna. We met Andrew in a previous book when Devon and Lily played a trick on him that left him humiliated. He returns and literally falls into Katie's lap. This book was a lot of fun with humor, great banter between the couple, a bit of mystery and a thrilling conclusion. A great ending to the series.  I will definitely read more from this author.

Author: Elizabeth Michels
Published: July 2014
Pages: 315
Genre: Regency
Source: Sourcebooks
Finished: 7/25/14


This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Sourcebooks and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

The Longest Night

Two fiery personalities living together in a remote cabin...

When a car accident leaves gorgeous but prickly genius Ian Fairchild with a debilitating injury and an addiction to painkillers, this city boy has to find a safe place to recover. He escapes to the remote Canadian wilderness, as far from the lights of Manhattan as he can get-and in the company of a woman he has no reason to trust.

Will they make it through the winter?

Former Marine Captain Cecily Knight prides herself on being self-sufficient. Her nearest neighbor is miles away, she has to fly to town for basic necessities, and she can go weeks without seeing another soul...and that's the way she likes it. But when she's called on to repay a debt, she agrees to allow Ian to stay with her in her isolated cabin, on one condition: just because he's invading her privacy doesn't mean she's willing to open herself up to him, even if he is as tempting as sin.

But as they spend day after day in in the wilderness together, Cecily and Ian's wary friendship turns into a love these two lost souls needed more than they ever knew.

This was a quick read that had a few problems.  I really liked Cecily, but would have liked to know more about what happened to her during her military career.  It was skimmed over too quickly. However, her issues were more believable than Ian's.  Ian would have been more believable if he just had an accident and needed to recover, it was too much that he had surgery and a drug addiction, and was able to figure out what Cecily needed and provided it.  I enjoyed the humor and slow romance between the two characters. I also liked Cecily's neighbor Marguerite and hope she gets a book.

Author: Kara Braden
Published: July 2014
Pages: 312
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: Sourcebooks
Finished:7/23/14


This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Becca and Sourcebooks and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

The Tea Shop on Lavender Lane

After a fake food poisoning incident in L.A., Bailey Sterling's dreams of becoming a caterer to the stars collapse faster than a soufflé. Now Bailey's face is in all the gossip rags and her business is in ruins. But the Sterling women close ranks and bring her back to Icicle Falls, where she'll stay with her sister Cecily.

All goes well between the sisters until Bailey comes up with a new business idea—a tea shop on a charming street called Lavender Lane. She's going into partnership with Todd Black, who—it turns out—is the man Cecily's started dating. It looks to Cecily as if there's more than tea brewing in that cute little shop. And she's not pleased.

Wait! Isn't Cecily seeing Luke Goodman? He's a widower with an adorable little girl, and yes, Cecily does care about him. But Todd's the one who sends her zing-o-meter off the charts. So now what? Should you have to choose between your sister and the man you love (or think you love)?

This is my first visit to Icicle Falls and I can't wait to go back. I loved the small town, characters and the relationship between these sisters with all the drama.   Family, forgiveness, loyalty, and love are major themes that add to the enjoyment of this novel.  I am hoping that Devon and Tilda feature in an upcoming story!

Sheila Roberts lives in the Pacific Northwest. She’s happily married and has three children.

Writing since 1989, Sheila’s books have been printed in several different languages and have been chosen for book clubs such as Doubleday as well as for Readers Digest Condensed books. Her best-selling novel ON STRIKE FOR CHRISTMAS was made into a movie and appeared on the Lifetime Movie Network, and her novel THE NINE LIVES OF CHRISTMAS has just been optioned for film and is slated to be a Hallmark movie later this year. Her novel ANGEL LANE was named one of Amazon’s Top Ten Romances for 2009.

When she’s not making public appearances or playing with her friends, she can be found writing about those things near and dear to women’s hearts: family, friends, and chocolate. You can visit Sheila at her website.



This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Shelia Roberts, Pump Up Your Book Tourand in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

When I Fall In Love

Hawaii was the last place Grace Christiansen ever imagined she’d vacation, much less fall in love. But when her family surprises her with a cooking retreat in paradise, she is pulled—or maybe yanked—away from her predictable, safe life and thrown headfirst into the adventure of a lifetime.

Max Sharpe may make his living on the ice as a pro hockey player, but he feels most at home in the kitchen. Which is why he lives for the three-week culinary vacation he takes each year in Hawaii. Upon being paired with Grace for a cooking competition, Max finds himself drawn to her passion, confidence, and perseverance. But just when Grace dares to dream of a future beyond her hometown, Max pulls away.

Wrestling with personal demons, Max fights against opening his heart to a love he knows he should never hope for. And as his secrets unfold, Grace is torn between the safe path in front of her and what her heart truly desires. If love means sacrificing her ideal happily ever after, Grace’s faith will face its toughest test yet.

Grace and Max are both from tight knit families, each with desires of their own to make a difference. Grace's dream is go to culinary school and become a caterer. Max wants to leave his mark on hockey and earn a place in the hall of fame.  Grace steps out of her comfort zone to go to Hawaii.  Max goes every year and is asked by Grace's sister to keep an eye out for Grace.   Both of them have fears to overcome and difficult decisions to make.  Can they help each other?   Meanwhile Grace's brothers have their own problems that will change everything.  Another great installment in this gentle read series. 

Susan May Warren's newest book in the Christiansen Family Collection, When I Fall In Love,  has won over readers' and critics' hearts alike. With critical reviews like, ". . . an exquisite romance. Profoundly touching on the topic of facing fears, this book is a true gem," and more than 60 five-star reviews at Amazon, When I Fall in Love is sure to please.

Susan has teamed up with some amazing food bloggers for a fun food challenge and a KitchenAid Mixer giveaway!

  One grand prize winner will receive:

• A KitchenAid Mixer
• The first three books in the Christiansen Family Collection.
• Melissa Ringstaff’s Kitchen Planner
• Jackie Brown's Freezer Inventory sheet

Grab your aprons and wire whisks and buzz on over to the When I Fall in Love website to learn more and enter the Hawaiian Chef Showdown! Susan is challenging you to make a Hawaiian-inspired dish using coconut, mango, or one of the other ingredients mentioned in the book. You’ll get extra points for creating your own recipe—plus she might share it on the When I Fall in Love site! Or if you're not up for an adventure in the kitchen just click one of the icons below for easy entry.

Hurry, the giveaway ends on August 10th. All winners will be announced August 13th at Susan's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit Susan's blog on the 13th to see if you won!

Susan May Warren is the bestselling, RITA Award-winning author of more than forty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. She served with her husband and four children as a missionary in Russia for eight years before she and her family returned home to the States. She now writes full-time as her husband runs a lodge on Lake Superior in northern Minnesota, where many of her books are set. She and her family enjoy hiking, canoeing, and being involved in their local church. Several of her critically acclaimed novels have been ECPA and CBA bestsellers, were chosen as Top Picks by Romantic Times, and have won the RWA's Inspirational Reader's Choice contest and the American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year award. Five of her books have been Christy Award finalists.
Connect with Susan:  Website, Facebook


This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from LitFuse and Tydale House Publishers and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

Until We Touch

After a family tragedy, former football hero Jack McGarry keeps the world at arm’s length – a challenge now that his PR firm has moved to neighborly Fool’s Gold.

Larissa Owens knows where she stands – Jack’s her boss, not her boyfriend. No matter what her heart says. But then Larissa's big secret is revealed...by her mother!

When Jack discovers Larissa’s feelings, her touch suddenly becomes tantalizing, and he’s not sure he wants to resist. But if he gives in to desire, heartache is sure to follow. Friendship or true love-- will Jack go for the ultimate play?

I was late in discovering the Fool's Gold series starting with book 10.  It has quickly become a favorite and I hope to get to the previous books soon.  I had a bad day and just wanted to sit down and take my mind off what happened, this was the perfect book to do just that very thing!  I loved Larissa and her heart for rescuing animals, well really anything that needs to be rescued.   It seemed that this was her story, more than hers and Jacks. Her plan for getting over Jack and what happened next came quickly.  Jack reacted badly and I am not sure he deserves Larissa.  I hope they make appearances in future books so he can show that he is worthy of her. 

SUSAN MALLERY is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than 80 novels, with more than 25 million books sold worldwide. Mallery is known for creating characters who feel as real as the folks next door, and for putting them into emotional, often funny situations readers recognize from their own lives. Susan’s books have made Booklist’s Top 10 Romances list in four out of five consecutive years. RT Book Reviews says, “When it comes to heartfelt contemporary romance, Mallery is in a class by herself.” With her popular, ongoing Fool’s Gold series, Susan has reached new heights on the bestsellers lists and has won the hearts of countless new fans. Susan grew up in southern California, moved so many times that her friends stopped writing her address in pen, and now has settled in Seattle with her husband and the most delightfully spoiled little dog who ever lived.

 Visit Susan online website, Facebook


This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Alissa, Moss Media Relations, Inc.Moss Media Relations, Inc. and BookTrib and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.