Weekly Reading Wrap Up (SP/IMWAYR?)

To Sir With Love by Lauren Layne (audio)

Gracie is working hard to keep the family business open and thriving as she promised her father she would.  Things are getting difficult and there is a large corporation wanting to buy the business.  When she doesn't respond to their letters, they send one of their representatives.   Sebastian is not just their representative, he is the owner.  Gracie has met someone on a blind dating app where they don't immediately meet up or share pictures.  He is supportive, understanding and helps her realize what she needs to do going forward.  Meanwhile she keeps bumping into Sebastian and fights her anger and resentment towards him. When she finally makes the decision to sell the business she begins to see Sebastian in a different light. She is falling for both men, but has only met one, who will she choose.  A fun, heartwarming story narrated by Rachanee Lumayo and Shaun Taylor-Corbett.

*Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio for this review copy*

Mistletoe Christmas:  An Anthology (audio)

Four authors (Eloisa James, Christi Caldwell, Janna McGregor and Erica Ridley) team up to tell the story of four couples that attend a famous, sought after, Christmas Revelry annually held at the Duke of Greystoke's home. Each author did a great job with their couple that seamlessly carried from one story to the next narrated by the fantastic Susan Duerden. 

*Thanks to HarperAudio for this review copy*

When Stars Collide by Susan Elizabeth Phillips #9

 Two superstars in their respective careers work together as spokespersons for an exclusive watch brand.  As expected, they don't like each other and hope to just get through the assignment.  As they get to know each other they discover their preconceived ideas are totally wrong and things begin to change. Thad is a quarterback and Oliva is an opera diva. There is a bit of suspense added as Olivia has a stalker. This book, in a long running series, can be read as a standalone. 

Fallen by Linda Castillo #13

Chief Kate investigates a former Amish member's murder.  Rachel left the community as a teenager and never looked back.  Why did she return and who wanted her dead? As Kate and Tomasetti investigate it becomes clear that Rachel has led an interesting life that someone wants to keep a secret.  Another great installment in this series that kept me turning the pages.

Up Next:

Vision in Silver by Anne Bishop

Wicked All Night by Jeaniene Frost

Hidden Creed by Alex Kava

May your celebrations be filled with family, fun and plenty of blessings.  Merry Christmas!

                                                          The Grandkids!

Linking to these memes:

Kathryn at Book Date hosts IMWAYR?, a place to  meet up and share what you have been, are and about to be reading over the week.  It's a great opportunity to organize yourself, visit, comment, and add to that every growing TBR pile.

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @Caffeinated Book Reviewer. It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things we have received.

Weekly Reading Wrap Up (SP/IMWAYR?)

 

Game on By Janet Evanovich #28

Stephanie is on the trail of a skip who has become violent in his determination to stay out of jail. He is an international hacker on a mission and will do whatever it takes to complete it.   This time around she has the help of mysterious Diesel as he is looking for this guy as well.  Typical fun and entertaining story.  It is easier to enjoy by not expecting anything different. 

*Thanks to Atria Books/NetGalley for this review copy*

A Cup of Silver Linings by Karen Hawkins #2

A wonderful return to Dove Pond.  Kristin's grandmother Ellen has come to town to take her away from Dove Pond after the death of her mother.  Kristin does not want to go and tries to make her grandmother change her mind by searching for her father. Ava is close to opening her tea shop.  She has always had a gift with plants and creating teas that help the townspeople with their issues.  When her latest batch goes wrong and people begin to fear and avoid her brews, Ava know it is because of the secret she has been keeping.  When Sarah, her sister, learns this secret it causes a rift between the sisters.  The townspeople take Sarah's side and Ava's business is at risk. Heartwarming story of forgiveness and reconciliation. Look forward to returning to this wonderful town. The story is told in the POVs of Kristin, Ellen, Ave and Sarah.  The four narrators did a great job with their character, but when narrating the each other's characters, it was hard to figure out who was speaking.  It was such a distraction that I switched to print.

*Thanks to Simon and Schuster Audio for this review copy*

Enjoying the beautiful colors of the leaves changing.  Thank a Veteran for their service this Thursday!  Thank you, Dad, Grandpa, Scot, Jennifer, Thomas, Bruce.

Up Next:

I'm Only Wicked With You by Julie Ann Long

Golden Girl by Elin Hilderbrand

Stronger Than You Know by Lori Foster

Linking to these memes:

Kathryn at Book Date hosts IMWAYR?, a place to  meet up and share what you have been, are and about to be reading over the week.  It's a great opportunity to organize yourself, visit, comment, and add to that every growing TBR pile.

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @Caffeinated Book Reviewer. It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things we have received.

Weekly Reading Wrap Up (IMWAYR?/SP)

Buried by Lynda LaPlante #1

DCI Jack has taken a new job after moving for Maggie's job.  He seems to be going through the motions even though he is a talented investigator.  His father has just been diagnosed as terminal and that contributes to his drifting. A case of a burned body in a cottage is assigned to him.  When money is found in the home that could connect to a 25 year old robbery things begin to get interesting.  Jack, while talented, is flawed which makes him more intriguing.  The secondary characters lend so much to the story as well.  A great start to a new series.

The Judas Horse by Lynda LaPlante #2

Jack is back after successfully solving his last case.  He is called to a neighboring town to help in an investigation of home invasions that turn deadly.  His reputation precedes him which works both to his disadvantage and advantage. Jack's birth origins are fleshed out a bit more in this second installment, especially as he become a new father. Looking forward to more with this character.

A Duke In Time by Janna MacGregor #1

Katherine's husband had recently died.  While she is in the solicitor's office for the settling of his estate, she learns that he has two other wives.  One of whom is pregnant!  To avoid a scandal as this mess is sorted out the other women come to live with Katherine.  She doesn't want the scandal to touch her thriving business. Her husband's half-brother is called upon to help and can't help his attraction to Katherine.  Got off to a good start, but had a hard time holding my attention to the end.

Bone Canyon by Lee Goldberg #2

Eve is one of the youngest detective in her department and used her fifteen minutes of fame to get this job, which has her on the defense to prove herself. She investigates bones being found in the hills after a fire of a woman that disappeared years ago.  When she discovers the backstory of the missing woman the investigation heats up with those that want her to move on.  Eve is tenacious in her probing and it causes trouble. Plenty of twist and suspense keep the pages turning.  Looking forward to what Eve gets into next.

The Other Passenger by Louise Candlish

Jamie commutes to work on a ferry.  He meets a younger man Kit, who along with his girlfriend become friends of Jamie and his wife. When Kit goes missing, Jamie is suspected as he was last seen arguing with Kit.  The story is told in flashbacks, I had it figured out with a couple of surprises but overall a good read.

Heartless by Dannika Dark  #9(audio)

Raven takes an undercover assignment to find out what is happening to missing women.  Is it related to an underground fighting ring? She gets in deep and puts herself at risk, much to Christian's frustration.  It was great to get back to this world that was brilliantly narrated by Nicole Pool. 

Devil In Disguise by Lisa Kleypas #7 

Merritt is a widow and running a business.  She meets Keir when there is a problem with his shipment of whisky.  There is an attraction between them, but he wants to return to Scotland and figures there is no future.  When an attempt on his life goes wrong it becomes clear something else is going on here.  The story takes a frustrating turn, but gets back on track.  Loved the connection these two have to the Wallflowers. 

Someone to Cherish by Mary Balogh #8.

Harry finally feeling like he is recovered after returning from the war decides that, because his family has found happiness after the "great disaster" years ago, maybe he can be happy too.  Recently widowed Lydia has decided to stay in town instead of moving closer to her family.  She wants independence and the ability to decide things for herself.  They are neighbors and begin a friendship.  Harry's family decides to play matchmaker, but an incident throws a wrench into their plans.  As Harry and Lydia navigate their friendship and families will they become more than friends?  A great installment in this series. 

The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave (audio)

Hannah receives a note from her husband saying "protect her".  She has no idea what he means even when it appears that he is missing after the company he works for is being suspected of illegal practices. She soon figures out the note pertains to her step-daughter Bailey.  Bailey receives a duffle bag of money left by her father.  As the evidence piles up against Owen, Hannah is determine to figure out what is happening.  With a snippet of memory from Bailey they set off on a quest to get to the truth.  Hannah's remembering of her and Owen's courtship/relationship plays into where they go and what is uncovered.  Rebecca Lowman does a great job narrating this fast paced, intriguing novel.

  *Thanks to Simon and Schuster Audio for this review copy*

The Russian by James Patterson & James O Born #13

Michael Bennett is on the trail of a killer and figuring out his signature ramps up the investigation with a couple of twists.  Meanwhile it is getting close to his wedding to Mary.  Will he wrap up this case or will it interfere with the plans?  A satisfying installment in this series.

Up Next:

Claimed by J.R. Ward

To Sir With Love by Lauren Layne

Liar's Legacy by Taylor Stevens

Linking to these memes:

Kathryn at Book Date hosts IMWAYR?, a place to  meet up and share what you have been, are and about to be reading over the week.  It's a great opportunity to organize yourself, visit, comment, and add to that every growing TBR pile.

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @Caffeinated Book Reviewer. It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things we have received.

Weekly Reading Wrap Up (IMWAYR?/SP)

An Extraordinary Lord by Anna Harrington #3

Lord Merrit is bent on revenging the death of his finance.  He enlists (forces) thief taker Veronica to help  as she can go where he can't. Veronica agrees in order to be pardoned for a crime she did not commit. As they work together their attraction grows, but each having an end goal in mind may not make a relationship possible.  As the third book in the series I felt a bit was missing for me, but overall did enjoy it.

The Warlord by Gena Showalter #1

Warlord Roc invades Taliyah's realm in order to marry and sacrifice his bride for furthering his rule with power and gifts.  Taliyah, whose goal is to be Harpy General in her realm, has some things to say about his plan.  Which sets off a battle of wills that was fun, flirty and fierce. A good beginning to a new series that builds upon a previous one. 

Devil in Winter by Lisa Kleypas #3 (audio)

Evie is desperate to escape her controlling family who wants her inheritance.  Her friends can't help her get out from under what is happening.  She proposes to Lord St. Vincent who has the worst reputation, but has power and also needs money.  Sebastian is intrigued by this wallflower coming to him to propose a marriage of convenience, allowing him to continue on with his rakish ways if he protects her from her family, and allows her time with her dying father.  He agrees.  Their trip to Gretna Green for their marriage is surprisingly romantic.  As they return to London their relationship goes in a direction that neither one expected.  Mary Jane Wells' narration added to this book tremendously and solidified why this series is one of my favorites.

*Thanks to HarperAudio for this review copy*

One Got Away by S.A. Lelchuck #2

PI Nikki is back and takes a case finding out if a man is blackmailing or swindling money from Martin's mother.  As she begins following the man, she discovers there is more to this case then she has been told.  She finds herself drawn into secrets, lies, and serious crimes.  Nikki will keep investigating despite the family being satisfied that their mother is alright.  Her brother Brandon is doing great since rehab and her relationship with Ethan is progressing.  A fast paced follow-up to the first book in the series. 

Lady's Formula For Love by Elizabeth Everett #1

Widow Violet has founded a women's club where they can study and perform experiments of science.  When an attempt is made on her and her home, Violet's step-son hires bodyguard Arthur to keep her safe while they figure out what is happening.  As their attraction grows more sinister things begin to happen.  Humor, romance and a bit of intrigue get this first book in a new series off to a good start.

Liar's Paradox by Taylor Stevens #1

Twins Jack and Jill have had an unusual upbringing.  Their mother is missing and the survival skills she taught them as they were growing up may now have been cause she is crazy.  As they search for their mom her past becomes known, as well as their lives being threatened.  An action packed thrill ride with interesting characters.

The Drifter by Nicholas Petrie #1

Marine veteran Peter just wants to live some what off the grid and in peace.  He feels some guilt after a fellow marine commits suicide and begins to help out the family left behind.  While repairing the porch he discovers not only a large, scary dog but a suitcase full of money. It becomes apparent that someone knows about the money and wants it back.  As Peter begins to look into how it got there and what Jimmy got himself into it, he is drawn into more intrigue than he wants, but is determined to see it to the end. An engrossing debut that hooked me into the story with great characters.

Up Next:

Devil in Disguise by Lisa Kleypas

The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave

Bombshell by  Sarah MacLean

August got away from me and I got behind with my reviews.  It has been a great month of reading and relaxing that I've been a bit rebellious about getting back into our fall schedule.  Our grandson, on his second day of pre-K, got hurt on the playground.  Thankfully it was not a broken arm, and he is looking forward to going back to school.  

Linking to these memes:

Kathryn at Book Date hosts IMWAYR?, a place to  meet up and share what you have been, are and about to be reading over the week.  It's a great opportunity to organize yourself, visit, comment, and add to that every growing TBR pile.

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @Caffeinated Book Reviewer. It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things we have received.

Weekly Reading Wrap Up (IMWAYR?/SP)

The Step Sisters by Susan Mallery

Daisy is a busy nurse anesthesiologist and mom when her husband leaves her.  She is blindsided and has no idea why.  While picking up her sick daughter from school she runs into her former step-sister Sage who is back from Europe, and seemingly has it all together.  Meanwhile her half sister Cassidy has been seriously injured in a fall and needs to convalesce at her house. They have not been close in years as Cassidy chose Sage and her mother rather than Daisy and their father. An up and down story of forgiveness, reconciliation, second chances with flawed characters. 

*Thanks to HQN/NetGalley for this review copy*

Highland Treasure by Lynsay Sands (audio) #

Rory Buchanan is in a hurry to get back to Scotland after helping a man with his healing abilities.  He is asked by a family friend to escort a most treasured item back to Scotland for safekeeping. Elysande is that treasure, she has been beaten and imprisoned by a blackguard wanted an item that was sent to her family.  Some loyal men help he escape and meet up with Rory to make the journey back to Scotland.  Elysande is carrying an important letter that must be delivered.  The journey is perilous, and Rory finds himself impressed and attracted to her spirit and determination. Derek Perkins narrates the action and characters well. 

*Thanks to Harper Audio for this review copy*

An Unexpected Peril by Deanna Raybourn #6

Veronica and Stoker are putting together an exhibit honoring a well known female mountain climber who died doing what she loved.  While going through Alice's things they discover that maybe her death was not a tragic accident.  When they make their thoughts known, the officials of the country where the climber died decided not to pursue the matter in an effort not to scare people away from their town.  Veronica being the stubborn woman that she is, continues to investigate despite opposition.  A few days later the Princess of said country disappears (which she does often) before some major engagements.  Veronica resembles her and the officials ask her to step in and make appearances until the Princess returns.  Seeing it as an opportunity to gather clues and continue the investigation she agrees.  There are those, however, that don't want the mystery solved and it leads to tense moments.  A great installment in this series.

The Murder List by Hank Phillippi Ryan

Rachel is in law school and gets an intern job with the District Attorney. She is excited to learn from the other side as her husband is a hot shot defense lawyer.  He is not happy as he feels Martha just wants to get back at him. Rachel quickly gets involved with the goings on with in the DA's office and is surprised when a cold case is related to her past.  This is a big part of the story that is twisty and weaves past and present together that leaves you blindsided.

The Headmistress of Rosemere by Sarah E. Ladd

After the death of her father and her brother taking off for London Patience runs their school for girls.  Things are going well even though she is worried about her mother's grief and the whereabouts of her brother.  The neighbor William whom they lease the estate from gets himself in a bit of trouble and ends up in their stable. He is beaten badly because of his debt and Patience helps tend to his wounds and sends him on his way home.  Being reintroduced begins an interest in each other, but with each of them having worried of their own. William is trying to get a horse farm going in order to pay his debts.  A stable fire, the return of her brother stirs up a hornets nest of issues that look to be unsurmountable. A nice story with interesting characters.

Up Next:

The Summer of No Attachments by Lori Foster

The Last Library in London by Mary Martin

Learning to Breathe by Karen White

How can it be June already?  The last few months have been out of the norm for me, but thankful that my mom's health is rebounding and we will be able to travel back to MI for the summer.  

Linking to these memes:

Kathryn at Book Date hosts IMWAYR?, a place to  meet up and share what you have been, are and about to be reading over the week.  It's a great opportunity to organize yourself, visit, comment, and add to that every growing TBR pile.

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @Caffeinated Book Reviewer. It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things we have received.

Weekly Reading Wrap Up (IMWAYR?/SP)

The Summer Seekers by Sarah Morgan

Kathleen is determined to live on her own despite what her daughter thinks is best for her.  Liza is the family worrier, the one who does it all to make sure it is done right.  After an intruder ends up on her kitchen floor Kathleen, in an effort to get out from under Liza's plans, decides she is taking a summer trip along Route 66.  Her career as a travel video were some of the best years of her life and she longs for the adventure, but knows driving is not a good idea so she advertises for one.  Recently divorced Martha applies for the job as she is ready for a new beginning.  Kathleen and Martha set out and both come to terms with their past and what it will take to move forward. Liza is struggling and decides to spend time at her mother's home while she is away and rediscovers her passions as well as reigniting her marriage.  A great story of second chances and new beginnings that lead to reconciliations.

*Thanks to HQN/NetGalley for this review copy*

Lover Unveiled by J.R. Ward #19

The Black Dagger Brotherhood believe that with the Lesser's defeat things will be normal.  Little do they know a new evil has arrived in town. Devina is on the look out for The Book.  Mae is also on the look out  because she needs it to bring her brother back. While on the trail she meets Sahvage, a fighter with a mysterious past, who is drawn in to help Mae.  A bit all over the place that seems to set up future storylines. 

It Happened One Autumn by Lisa Kleypas (audio) #2

American heiress Lillian and her family have come to London for two reasons.  Her father wants to make a business deal and her mother wants to marry a man with a title.  Lillian, her sister and w friends formed a group called the Wallflowers with the goal of supporting each other as they navigate the season and possibly marry.  Lillian's proud to be a strong woman and opinionated personality is not well received by their host, Marcus, Lord Westcliff or his mother. But against each of their plans they find themselves attracted to each other.  Their journey to a happy ending was full of angst, humor and a couple of twists.  Read by one of my favorite narrators Rosalyn Landor.

*Thanks to HarperAudio for this review copy*

When A Rogue Met His Match by Elizabeth Hoyt #2

Messalina has been under her uncles guardianship for a few years and she tries her best to avoid being anywhere near him.  He, of course, is a slimy, good for nothing person.  When she is kidnapped by his "fixer" Gideon and returned home she is furious.  Gideon has worked for the Duke of Windemere for years doing his dirty work.  This time Gideon is promised Messalina, whom he as long cared for, as a wife.  He makes a deal with Messalina that he will protect her sister from their uncle if she agrees to marry him.  Soon after their marriage Gideon finds out what her uncle wants from him in exchange for her dowry.  Will he be able to go through with the request as it will devastate Messalina?  This second book was a bit better than the first, but still not as liked as the Maiden Lane series.

Night of the Scoundrel by Kelly Bowan #3.5

Both King and Adeline have mysterious pasts that lead them in their present pursuits.  Both are out for righting wrong(s).  King is in possession of an item that Adeline want to right a long ago wrong.  King has been aware of Adeline and her reputation and is intrigued by her.  While attempting to steal what belongs to another she is confronted by King, but he is blindsided by the arrival of a long thought dead nemesis.  He hires Adeline to help him in his quest to right his wrong.  Each has suffered tremendously in their pasts, will they be able to trust each other and find peace and happiness?  A great little novella.

Up Next:

An Unexpected Peril by Deanna Raybourn

The Step-Sisters by Susan Mallery

The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin

Linking to these memes:

Kathryn at Book Date hosts IMWAYR?, a place to  meet up and share what you have been, are and about to be reading over the week.  It's a great opportunity to organize yourself, visit, comment, and add to that every growing TBR pile.

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @Caffeinated Book Reviewer. It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things we have received.