Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Book Review My Last Lament by James William Brown

My Last Lament
Title:  My Last Lament

Author: James William Brown

Stars: 4 1\2 Stars out of 5

Review: 
While a work of fiction I am sure that it closely recreates what occurred in Greece during and after WWII. It is a story about hardship, loss and hope. The author is able to make the reader feel they are living at that time and observing the events from the sidelines.

I have rated this book at 4.5 stars and recommend it for anyone who enjoys a good drama.

I received an ARC from Netgalley for my unbiased review.

 Thank you Frank for your Review 

Synopsis: 
A poignant and evocative novel of one Greek woman's story of her own and her nation's epic struggle in the aftermath of World War II.

Aliki is one of the last of her kind, a lamenter who mourns and celebrates the passing of life. She is part of an evolving Greece, one moving steadily away from its rural traditions. To capture the fading folk art of lamenting, an American researcher asks Aliki to record her laments, but in response, Aliki sings her own story...

It begins in a village in northeast Greece, where Aliki witnesses the occupying Nazi soldiers execute her father for stealing squash. Taken in by her friend Takis's mother, Aliki is joined by a Jewish refugee and her son, Stelios. When the village is torched and its people massacred, Aliki, Takis and Stelios are able to escape just as the war is ending.

Fleeing across the chaotic landscape of a post-war Greece, the three become a makeshift family. They are bound by friendship and grief, but torn apart by betrayal, madness and heartbreak.

Through Aliki's powerful voice, an unforgettable one that blends light and dark with wry humor, My Last Lament delivers a fitting eulogy to a way of life and provides a vivid portrait of a timeless Greek woman, whose story of love and loss is an eternal one.

ebook
Expected publication: March 1st 2017 by Berkley Books

About The Author: 

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1634110.James_William_Brown


Website:

Monday, February 27, 2017

Book Review The Game Changer (Mafia Made #2) by Scott Hildreth

The Game Changer (Mafia Made, #2)
Title: The Game Changer 

Author: Scott Hildreth

Star: 4 out of 5

Review:
You have to read the book one to really understand what is happening in book 2.  This series isn't really a stand alone and while the author does a good job of catching readers up the best he can you will get lost.
Scott Hildreth was able to effortlessly transitioned from The Gun Runner to this story to The Game Changers keeping his readers from the first novel hooked

The author created a story that feels real that it sucks the reader in keeping him hooked.  His ability to create such a strong bond between characters where the reader will feel as if they are part of the family. While they are family readers will question their loyalty and if the character is betrayal the readers feels betrayed. 
Scott Hildreth is able to create complete characters overs time while keeping the story moving creating a very captive read that readers will not want to put down.  
When you finish this book #2 you will wish book 3 was out already.

Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy 

Synopsis:
About: Terra

I'm going to marry this man, and nothing will stop me.
I didn't expect it to be Michael Tripp who left when we made our announcement. He knows this life, he knows what it means to be a part of mia familia. 
He didn't know he was marrying the boss's daughter.
I kept it from him—I lied to him. 
He came back, thank God. My love forgave me and the wedding is on. 
I'll die before I allow any more secrets to come between us. 

Tripp
I'm a man of my word. I love hard and tell it like it is. But the Mafia has me in their crosshairs and I'm in deep. Partnering with a crime boss is one thing. Working for a crime boss who is also your father-in-law…that's just f***ed.
I stepped up to the challenge. Shaking things up and making changes that needed to happen to secure our power. And the profits speak for themselves. 
No one could have seen the end coming. No one could have stopped it, not even me.
The playing field has changed. And nothing will ever be the same.


ebook336 pages
Published February 6th 2017 by Carina Press

About The Author:
Scott Hildreth
Born In San Diego California, Scott now calls Naples, Florida home. Residing in Florida with his wife, Jessica, and his children, he somehow finds twelve hours a day to work on his writing. 

Addicted to riding his Harley-Davidson, tattoos, and drinking coffee, Scott can generally be found in a tattoo shop, on his Harley, or in a local coffee house when not writing. 

Scott is a hybrid author who both self-publishes and conventionally publishes. Look for a three book (mafia erotic romance) series releasing in 2016 through Harlequin Romance. 

Loyal to the fans, fan girls, and faithful followers who allowed him to make writing a full-time career, Scott communicates with his followers on Facebook almost daily. He encourages his readers to follow him on Facebook and Twitter.


Website:  http://www.scotthildreth.com

Saturday, February 25, 2017

Book Review A Dead Red Heart by R. P. Dahlke

A Dead Red Heart (A Dead Red, #2)
Title: A Dead Red Heart

 Author: R.P. Dahlke

Stars: 4 out of 5

 Review: 
A murder mystery with just enough red herring to keep even the most avid amateur sluth on their toes. I enjoyed this book, second in the series, and look forward to reading the third book.

I have rated this book four stars.

I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.
Thank you Frank for you Reviews

Synopsis: 
What would you do if the love of your life lost their chance at a heart transplant because the donor organ went to a convicted felon? Grieve and let go--or wait until the convict is released and then hunt him down and make him pay? 
Lalla Bains certainly doesn't need any more distractions during the simmering summers in the San Joaquin Valley of California; her tight-wad, widowed father is now a born-again lady's man, a disreputable crop-dusting competitor threatens her business, and last but not least, she worries whether the sultry redhead in the local police department is taking more than a professional interest in her honey, Sheriff Caleb Stone. 
But when a homeless vet is stabbed and dies at her feet, Lalla Bains, being the exasperating, pushy, tenacious gal she is, Lalla believes the dead man deserves a better homicide investigation than what he's getting.


About The Author:
R.P. Dahlke
I write the Dead Red Mystery series, 
and a romantic sailing mystery trilogy starting with A Dangerous Harbor and now Hurricane Hole. I LOVE to hear from readers! e-mail me: rp@rpdahlke.com

Join my private list of favorite reader/reviewers and get FREE stuff! 
http://rpdahlke.com

or e-mail me: rp@rpdahlke.com


Website: 
http://rpdahlke.com

Twitter:
rpdahlke

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Throwback Thursday HotShot - Julie Garwood

Friday, January 9, 2015

Book Review - HotShot - Julie Garwood

16101020
TitleHotShot

Author: Julie Garwood

Stars: 5 out of 5 I got this at my online library

Review:
I have never read Julie Garwood but I saw this book show up as a suggestion on my Library account so I thought sure why not it sounded interesting enough.

Peyton Lockhart graduated from a prestigious French Culinary school and got her dream job as a food critic but quickly finds out her dream job might not be what she wanted it to be. She quickly moves back home and runs into her childhood crush Finn MacBain at his brother’s wedding.  

Seeing Finn again brings back that crush she once had on him and with 8 years different in age she figures he will never really notice her. He does notice the bullet holes in her car.
Than her Uncle offers her and her two sisters a chance to run his oceanfront resort but the catch is they need to be able to show a profit in one year to be able to keep the place?
Peyton finds life isn’t always what you plan it to be and sometimes you have to roll with the punches.

This was my first Julie Garwood book and boy she is into background details making sure the readers is invested into every characters she writes. Which I have a love hate relationship with because I would find myself lost in the details she created about each character.  However I love it because you never need to guess why someone is doing something.

Payton is a fun, sarcastic character that the reader cannot help but love and root for from the beginning to end of the book. Finn MacBain is your typical alpha male character with time entertaining moments but Payton steals the book.  The dialog in the book is fun quick and will keep the readers reading along with some sexy senses as well.

I loved that Julie Garwood created secondary characters and flushed them out making them integrated into the story. I was excited that they didn’t bog down the story but kept it going and I wanted to know what happened to them.

The Villains are nasty and very dark but Julie Garwood offset the darker parts of the book with real housewives - characters that will drive the reader to laugh or crazy.

I really enjoyed the book and plan to read more from Julie Garwood in the future.

Thanks Heidi for this review.

Synopsis:  #1 New York Times bestselling author Julie Garwood returns with a novel of family drama, suspense, and—of course—romance. 

Peyton Lockhart and her sisters have inherited Bishop’s Cove, a small, luxurious oceanfront resort, but it comes with a condition: The girls must run the resort for one year and show a profit—only then will they own it.

A graduate of a prestigious French culinary school, Peyton has just lost her job as a food critic. Out of work and in a bad place personally, a year doing something completely different sounds wonderful.

There are countless challenges and too many people who want to stop the sisters from succeeding. Among them are Peyton’s contentious cousins, who are outraged that they didn’t inherit the resort, as well as a powerful group of land developers who have been eyeing the coveted beachfront property.

It’s soon apparent to Peyton that their efforts are being sabotaged, but she refuses to let the threats scare her—until she’s nearly killed. She calls on her childhood friend and protector, Finn MacBain, now with the FBI, and asks for his help. He saved her life once; he can do it again. 
Julie Garwood
Author Information:  With more than 35 million books in print and 26 NEW YORK TIMES bestsellers, Julie Garwood has earned a position among America's favorite fiction writers.

Born and raised in Kansas City, MO, Ms. Garwood attributes much of her success to growing up in a large family of Irish heritage. "The Irish are great storytellers who relish getting all of the details and nuances of every situation. Add in the fact that I was the sixth of seven children. Early in life, I learned that self expression had to be forceful, imaginative, and quick," says Ms. Garwood. 

She began her writing career when the youngest of her three children entered school. After the publications of two young-adult books, she turned her talents to historical fiction. Her first novel, GENTLE WARRIOR, was published by Pocket Books in 1985. Since then, she has branched into other genres including contemporary romantic suspense. Today, her name appears regularly on the bestseller lists of every major publication in the country, and her books are translated into dozens of languages around the world. Her bestselling novel FOR THE ROSES was adapted for the HALLMARK HALL OF FAME television movie ROSE HILL.

Ms. Garwood lives in Leawood, KS and is currently working on her next novel.

Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Book Review Harriet Beecher Stowe A Biography by Noel Gerson

Harriet Beecher Stowe: A Biography
Title: Harriet Beecher Stowe A Biography

Author:  Noel Gerson

Stars: 4 out of 5

Review: 
This was an interesting book about an individual who was very prominent in the anti-slavery camp prior to the civil war. She was best known for writing the fictional novel Uncle Tom's Cabin, although, she did write many other articles and novels. I enjoyed the book but found it to be a little dry at times. I recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in this particular area of United States history.

I have rated book 4 stars.

I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.
Thank you Frank for your review

Synopsis:
Noel Gerson explores the life of this fascinating woman who literally changed the course of American history with her book Uncle Tom’s Cabin. 

Harriet Beecher Stowe reveals a towering literary figure who was also a remarkable woman, a crusading feminist, and a woman who led a life more dramatic than anything she wrote. 

In an age when women were usually confined to the kitchen, the bedroom, and the parlour, Harriet Beecher Stowe argued emancipation with President Lincoln, had an extraordinary woman-to-woman relationship with Queen Victoria, and was regarded by Emile Zola as a comrade-in-arms in their separate crusades for a better world. 

Her super-abundant energy and refreshing humour enabled her to combine the duties of a devoted wife and mother of five with a renowned literary career and to become in the process one of the greatest celebrities of the nineteenth century. 


About the Author:

Gerson's primary focus was on historical novels, mostly stand-alone, with American history receiving considerable attention. Of note, he wrote a number of historical novels about colonial America and also the United States in its formative years.
Gerson also wrote a large number of biographies and biographical novels. These included several on U.S. presidents, such as Andrew Jackson, James Polk, and Theodore Roosevelt. Many of his biographic works also focused on notable women in history such as Empress Theodora of the Byzantine Empire; William the Conqueror's formidable wife, Matilda of Flanders; and Pocahantas.
During the latter stages of his career, Gerson wrote two series of American historical novels having characters that continued through the series. Using the pen name Dana Fuller Ross, the first was the popular twenty-four book Wagons West series that began in 1978 and is currently being republished. The first four books in this series describe the initial wagon train to Oregon beginning in 1837. Beginning in 1979, Gerson initiated a second series called White Indian using the pen name of Donald Clayton Porter. Set in the late 1600s, it portrays the life of Renno, a child of settlers, who was raised by the Seneca to become a senior warrior

Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Book Review The Autobiography Of Benjamin Franklin By Benjamin Franklin

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin
Title:  Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

Author: Benjamin Franklin 

 Stars: 5 Stars out of 5 Stars

Review:
The original book was first published in 1790, however, this version was published in 2014. Every U.S. citizen should read this book and acquaint themselves with the full life of this great American and patriot. He was much more than just a signer of the Declaration of Independence. He lived a full life with personal ideas and morals that our public servants today would do well to emulate.

I rated this book 5 stars.

I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.
Thank you Frank for you many reviews this month.

Synopsis: 
Few men could compare to Benjamin Franklin. Virtually self-taught, he excelled as an athlete, a man of letters, a printer, a scientist, a wit, an inventor, an editor, and a writer, and he was probably the most successful diplomat in American history. David Hume hailed him as the first great philosopher and great man of letters in the New World.
Written initially to guide his son, Franklin's autobiography is a lively, spellbinding account of his unique and eventful life. Stylistically his best work, it has become a classic in world literature, one to inspire and delight readers everywhere.

About The Author:
Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin was a writer, a philosopher, a scientist, a politician, a patriot, a Founding Father, an inventor, and publisher. He helped with the founding of the United States of America and changed the world with his discoveries about electricity. His writings such as Poor Richards' Almanac have provided wisdom for 17 years to the colonies.

 Website:  
https://www.senate.gov/artandhistory/art/artifact/Sculpture_21_00008.htm#bio

I pretty safe to say that while there are websites about Benjamin Franklin he didn't create his very own author Website. ;)

Saturday, February 18, 2017

Book Review Silver's Odyssey by Henry C Duggan, III

Silver's Odyssey by Henry C. Duggan III
Title: Silver's Odyssey 

Author: Henry C Duggan, III

Stars: 4 1/2 Stars out of 5

Review:
An imposing story of survival against tremendous odds. A fictional novel loosely based on a real event. If you enjoy an excellent action adventure this is a book you should not miss out on.

I have rated this book 4.5 stars 

I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.
Thank you Frank for your Review.

Synopsis:
his a historical fiction novel telling the story of a 1622 Spanish shipwrecked soldier. After being thrown off the Atocha galleon in a hurricane off the Florida Keys,he must survive a 4-yr trek through wilderness Florida enroute back to Spain.

Physical and emotional challenges of the highest order confront him on a COLD MOUNTAIN-south adventure through a world few Europeans had seen. The will to live and his instinctive outdoor traits prod him into action.


Kindle Edition323 pages
Published August 28th 2013 by Henry C. Duggan,III 

About The Author:
Henry C. Duggan III
Albany,Ga,native  Albany High School  UGA grad 1963  Married 47 years to Pat  3 adult children, 5 grandchildren  retired banker  Likes: canoeing mountain trout fishing music, guitar architectural history
genealogy general history geography philosophy  Bible study  writing  exercise  vegetarian diet  
living 2 hours from Gulf of Mexico

Website:
https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Henry+C.+Duggan+III

Friday, February 17, 2017

Book Review Heaven To Betsy by Pamela Fagan Hutchins

Heaven to Betsy (What Doesn't Kill You #5)
Title:  Heaven To Betsy

Author:  Pamela Fagan Hutchins 

 Stars: 4.25 out of 5  (We like to mess with the reviewing numbers why just full stars when you can give 1\4, 1\2, 3\4 Makes like an adventure.

Review: 
After reading this book I have to add my name to the author's ever growing list of followers. She writes with a style that is intriguing with just the right amount of subtle humor and down to earth realism. I look forward to reading the next installments in the life of Emily and her desired family.

I have rated this book 4.25 stars.

I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.
Thank you Frank for the Review

Synopsis: 
Heaven to Betsy features Emily, Katie's stateside best friend, in her own hilarious adventures.

When a dead body swan-dives from a balcony into the pool at a wedding, gossip comes to a halt about disgraced paralegal and former rodeo queen Emily—whose husband left her for a woman who’s really a man. Enter Jack, a secretive attorney and sexy mix of cowboy and Indian. She refuses to work for him until she learns about the disappearance of the six-year old daughter of his notorious client Sofia, the wedding shooter, who is also an illegal immigrant. Emily feels a strange affinity with the girl and launches a desperate search for her. Bodies pile up in her wake across Texas and New Mexico as the walls around her own secrets begin to crumble, and the authorities question whether the child is anything but a figment of her imagination.


Kindle Edition311 pages
Published March 2016 by SkipJack (first published April 2nd 2015)

About the Author:
Pamela Fagan Hutchins
Pamela Fagan Hutchins writes overly long e-mails, the What Doesn't Kill You romantic mysteries, and (possibly) hilarious nonfiction. She resides deep in the heart of Nowheresville, TX and way up in the frozen north of Snowheresville, WY. Pamela is passionate about great writing and smart authorpreneurship as well as hiking with her hunky husband and pack of rescue dogs and goat, riding her gigantic horses, experimenting with her Keurig, and traveling in the Bookmobile.

If you like Sandra Brown or Janet Evanovich for fiction or Erma Bombeck for nonfiction, you're going to love Pamela.

2016 WINNER USA Best Books Fiction: Cross Genre (Hell to Pay)
2015 WINNER USA Best Books Fiction: Cross Genre (Heaven to Betsy)
2014 FINALIST USA Best Books Fiction: Cross Genre (Going for Kona)
2014 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Quarter-Finalist (Finding Harmony)
2013 USA Best Books Business: Writing & Publishing (What Kind of Loser Indie Publishes)
2012 Houston Writers Guild Ghost Story (Leaving Annalise)
2012 USA Best Books Parenting/Divorce (How to Screw Up Your Kids)
2011 Houston Writers Guild Novel (Finding Harmony)
2010 Writers League of Texas Romance (Saving Grace)


 Website: 


Twitter: 
@PamelotH

Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Book Review Loving Lieutenant Douglas by Barbara Devlin (A Brethren of the Coast Novella)

Loving Lieutenant Douglas: A Brethren of the Coast Novella
Title:  Loving Lieutenant Douglas (A Brethren of the Coast Novella)

Author: Barbara Devlin

Stars: 4 out of 5 

Review:
A very good historical romance novella that can easily be read in an afternoon. The hero is both dashing and bold. The heroine is beautiful and knows what she wants and desires and that is Lieutenant Douglas. Obstacles are met and overcome and all ends well.

I rated this novella 4 stars.

I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.

Thank you Frank for you many Reviews

Synopsis:
It is the Age of Sail, and First Lieutenant Mark Douglas of the Royal Navy has set his sights on a fiery society miss with a spirit to match his own. What happens when Lady Amanda Gascoigne-Lake's father rejects the sailor's suit, and an ancient brooch with mystical power portends doom?

Paperback148 pages
Published December 15th 2014 by Barbara C. Noyes

 About The Author: 
Barbara Devlin
Barbara Devlin was born a storyteller. A Texan, through and through, Barbara hasn’t been without a book in her possession since she was in kindergarten. She wrote her first short story, a really cheesy murder-mystery, in high school, but it was a Christmas gift, a lovely little diary with a bronze lock, given to her in the fifth grade that truly inspired her love for writing.

After completing part of her undergraduate studies at the University of London, Barbara returned home and began a career in banking. But the late 80’s weren’t too promising for the financial industry, and every bank that hired Barbara soon folded. So she searched for a stable occupation, and the local police department offered the answer to her prayers.

Initially, Barbara wasn’t too sure about her new chosen career in law enforcement, but she soon came to love being a police officer. However, on an uncharacteristically cold and icy day in December 1998, Barbara was struck by a car and pinned against a guardrail while working an accident on a major highway. Permanently disabled, she retired from the police department and devoted her time and energy to physical therapy.

Once Barbara got back on her feet, she focused on a new career in academia. She earned an MA in English, continued on a course of study for a Doctorate in Literature and Rhetoric, started writing historical fiction in her spare time, and completed five full-length novels featuring her fictional knighthood, the Brethren of the Coast. Book six is currently in the works.


Website:



Twitter: 
barbara_devlin

Tuesday, February 14, 2017

Happy Valentine's Day

Image result for hAppy Valentines day Stinky Face

As silly as it sounds this day 14 years ago I realized that this guy I had been hanging out with, who made me laugh so hard and could totally handle my smack talking was pretty awesome.

14 years ago today he gave me a valentines gift of perfume, beautiful long stem red roses and a stake dinner. He made me feel so special and when he dropped me off that night with a kiss I knew I was going to marry him.  (I didn't tell him that.)  This man went from being a typical pigish guy, to sweet, funny, someone I could tell and trust my feelings with and before I knew it he owned my heart.

He still owns my heart.  He started off as the jerk I played Halo with, to my friend, to my best friend and somewhere in there he convinced he to jump; life trusting another person with my heart, soul and mind.

I am blessed everything single day of my life to wake up next to the man of my dreams.  No book I have read, not one "Book Boyfriend" can ever compare to the real deal.
We fight, we love, we trust, we care and we are both 100% in on this crazy roller-coaster of life.

To the man I married, to my best friend and one and only true love.
I LOVE YOU STINKY FACE




Side not if you want to learn the history of Valentine's Day here is a link
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentine's_Day

Book Review Getting Schooled (The Wright Brothers #1) By Christina C. Jones

Getting Schooled (The Wright Brothers, #1)
Title: Getting Schooled (The Wright Brothers #1)

 Author: Christina C. Jones

Stars: 4 out of 5

Review:
A modern day love story between two people who ignite through personality clashes. Both know what they want and finally achieve that mutual goal. I enjoyed the book but had some problems with the street language (idioms) which was geared for a black audience. It did not distract from the story being put forth. However, I must include a warning that if you are offended by coarse language this is a book you may want to pass on.

I rated this book 4 stars.

I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.


Synopsis: 
When 26 year old Reese accepts a position as a grad assistant, she has no idea an unpleasant encounter with a student will lead to the discovery of what she calls “the trifecta”: fine, intellectual, and a little bit rude – three qualities she finds irresistible in a man. She has no intention of doing anything with that discovery – nothing long term, at least. But everybody knows what happens to best laid plans. 
Jason is a grown man. 28 years old, seasoned and scarred by his real-life experience in the world, he’s at Blakewood State University to finish his degree and move on. The last thing he’s interested in is the female population on campus… but sexy, infuriating Reese might be a notable exception. 
This isn’t a story of opposites attract. 
More like counterparts clash. 
Neither of them is afraid to do battle, and neither is willing to back down. Love and war, win or lose… somebody’s gonna end up getting schooled. 


Kindle Edition173 pages
Published January 11th 2016 by Warm Hues Publishing

Abut the Author: 
Christina C. Jones
Right now, up at 6am for some inexplicably reason, I’m updating my bio, because the last time I did, I put down that I was 23. That was four years and many, many major life changes ago.
You can do math, so you don’t need me to tell you that I’m 27 now. I’m still happily hanging in there with the hubs, and we’ll celebrate six years of marriage this year! He’ll turn thirty this year in October, Isabella will be five in December, and the newbie, Zoe, will turn two, also in October. Also, not such a newbie anymore huh?
At the time of this writing, I am an (obviously) non-traditional college student, soon to be two-time drop out, and I am perfectly happy to say that. Because that’s not the most important thing. I’m also a graphic designer (that link to Visual Luxe at the top is related) and  lightly seasoned self-published author, with five books under my belt. But again, none of those are the most important things.
That title belongs to me. Yep. Just me. Plain old Christina. I am an imperfect Christian, fiercely loyal friend, and a woman still figuring herself out. I eat too much, work out too little, and spend too much time chastising myself for both. I work hard, and I barely sleep, but it’s worth it to one day be at a place where my girls can look up to me for more than just my (impeccable) party decorating skills.
I’m a procrastinator, and a private shit-talker, and listen, I serve a ol’ nasty resting bitch-face, OK? I won’t give you the shirt off my back, but I’ll find you a cute one and get it for you, because we both need shirts, right? #random.
So anyway, that’s me. I’m Christina. Hi.

Website:
http://www.beingmrsjones.com/

Twitter:

beingmrsjones

Saturday, February 11, 2017

Book Review Adiós Ángel by Mark Reps

Adiós Ángel (Zeb Hanks: Small Town Sheriff Big Time Trouble #3)
Title: Adiós Ángel

Author:  Mark Reps

Stars: 4 out of 5

Review:
A modern day murder mystery set in Arizona near the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation. In true western style the Sheriff, his deputy, and friend must solve the crime(s) and save the day. The characters are well written and the scenery description is excellent. It took me back to my time in Arizona and my time fishing in the river running through the reservation.

I have rated this book four stars and heartily recommend it if you enjoy stories with a western setting.

I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.


Synopsis: 
Sheriff Zeb Hanks has his hands full when sociopath Jimmie Joe Walker, recently released from an Arizona state prison, masterminds a devious plan to make himself filthy rich. His plan involves Ángel Gómez, a down-on-his-luck half Mescalero Apache/half Mexican. Ángel’s alcoholism and far-fetched dreams make him an unwitting dupe in Jimmie Joe's plans which end up endangering Ángel’s own life as well as the lives of those he loves. 

Set in and around the mining towns of Safford and Morenci, Arizona and near the San Carlos Apache Reservation, this Sheriff Zeb Hanks tale takes the reader on quite a ride. While dealing with the consequences of choices he has made, Zeb is confronted with inconceivable loss in his personal and professional life. Deputy Kate Steele’s relationship with Eskadi Black Robes, Tribal Chairman of the San Carlos Apache Reservation, becomes conflicted as she works with Josh Diamond, local gun shop owner, to provide support for the sheriff. Ultimately circumstances cause Sheriff Hanks to question everyone and everything in his world, shifting his very foundation.

ADIÓS ÁNGEL reveals the complexities and contradictions that are part of life’s gritty nature. It is a story of evil, alcoholism, love and betrayal. 
Kindle Edition253 pages
Published November 21st 2013

About The Author:
Mark Reps
I am an author with 8 published books. Most of them are in the ZEB HANKS: Small Town Sheriff Big Time Trouble series. They include NATIVE BLOOD, HOLES IN THE SKY, ADIOS ANGEL, NATIVE JUSTICE, NATIVE BONES AND NATIVE WARRIOR. I have 10 books planned in the ZEB HANKS series. Also outside the series currently published are HEARTLAND HEROES and BUTTERFLY. I have 4 other completed books that I will publish in the future.

I have been a chiropractor/acupuncturist since 1980 and also write a natural health column for several newspapers that I would like to syndicate.


Website:  www.markreps.com
Twitter: @markreps1
Facebook pages: Zeb Hanks, Mark Reps


Friday, February 10, 2017

Book Review Country Heaven Author Ava Miles

Country Heaven (Dare River, #1)
Title:Country Heaven

Author: Ava Miles

Stars: 4 1\2 Stars out of 5

Review:
A modern day love story that will tug at your heart strings. The story is well scripted and will keep your interest from the opening page to the closing page. If you enjoy reading about strong female characters this book has to be on your to be read list.

I have rated this book 4.5 stars and look forward to reading the next book in the series.

I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.


Synopsis:
A down-on-her luck cook uses food’s magical properties to tame a beastly country singer after he hires her under false pretenses to restore his image.

When famous—and infamous—country singer Rye Crenshaw saunters into the diner where she cooks, Tory Simmons is certain she’s got him pegged. He’s a bad boy who indulges himself in all things, women included. But while she couldn’t care less about country music or arrogant men, Rye makes her an offer she can’t refuse when he asks her to be his private chef on his multi-city concert tour. The job is the answer to all her prayers: it will clear out her debt and finance the fresh start she desperately needs.

Rye is certain his sassy new cook is the last woman who’d ever tempt him, but spending time with the wholesome girl next door will do wonders for his damaged public image, whether she likes being forced into the spotlight or not. Her food also happens to be the best he’s ever eaten, both comforting and seductive. But spending time with Tory on the road shows him a new side to her—one that’s as impossible to resist as her food. And when an emergency in his family whisks him home, he does the one thing he’s never risked: he lets a woman into his heart…

Soon the emotions Rye faked for the tabloids become all too real, but will the country heaven he’s found in Tory’s arms survive in the real world?
 



Kindle Edition319 pages
Published February 2015 by Ava Miles, Inc (first published February 8th 2014)

About The Author:

Ava Miles
International Bestselling Author Ava Miles joined the ranks of beloved storytellers with her powerful messages of healing, mystery, and magic. Millions of readers have discovered her fiction and nonfiction books, praised by USA TODAY and Publisher’s Weekly. Women’s World Magazine has selected a few of her novels for their book clubs while Southwest Airlines featured the #1 National Bestseller NORA ROBERTS LAND (the name used with Ms. Roberts’ blessing) in its in-flight entertainment. Ava’s books have been chosen as Best Books of the Year and Top Editor’s Picks and are translated into multiple languages.

Ava calls herself a divine rockstar, something she believes everyone is deep down. She’s a unique expression of love and joy in the world with her own special gifts: writing stories with uplifting messages, being an intuitive healer, inspiring others to uncover their authentic selves and their highest path in the world; and creating artistic masterpieces like pottery and sculptures. And then there’s the cooking… She used to be a chef and rocks food big time.

A global awakener at the core, Ava has dedicated her life to uplifting everyone on the planet. In her former career rebuilding war zones, she worked in places like Lebanon, Colombia, Pakistan, West Bank/Gaza, and Congo to foster peaceful communities. Now she’s sharing her stories of love, forgiveness, and empowerment around the world—pretty much still changing lives.


Websites: 

http://www.avamiles.com

Twitter:

authoravamiles

Thursday, February 9, 2017

Throwback Thursday Book Review Fear For Me Cynthia Eden

Friday, October 17, 2014

Book Review - Fear For Me - Cynthia Eden

18318649
Title:  Fear for Me

Author:  Cynthia Eden

Review:   Five years ago Lauren and Anthony worked together to bring down Jon Walker the Bayou Butcher, a serial killer who murders women in Baton Rouge area. During that time Anthony U.S. Marshal and Assistant District Attorney Lauren had a passionate affair when the case ended Anthony left. Fast forward Lauren is now the Distract Attorney and Jon Walker escapes prison and is hunting for his next pray Lauren.  Lauren and Anthony must work together to find the killer before he kills again.

Fear for Me is one of the best Romantic Suspense novels I have read from Cynthia Eden. You are pulled in from page one and the author dares you to finish the book in one night.  Every time I thought I knew where the story was going or who the killers were Cynthia Eden threw up another road block and I found myself as frustrated as characters who were hunting for Jon Walker.  At one point the good guys were the bad guys and to be honest I started to wonder if the bad guys were the good guys and by the end of the book I was so taken back by the killer I jumped up and well "WHAT!!"

Anthony’s character is similar to all of Cynthia Edens male characters though out her different series. They all have broken past and are not sure how to overcome but they have a deep desires to protect those they love most of all to the point they become obsessed.  Your typical Alpha Male in romantic suspense but somehow she takes the running cliché and turns him into someone you want to have the Happier Ever After with.

Fear For Me is a standalone novel but does have a slight tie to the first Die For Me where Anthony is first introduced and again you question is he the good guy or the bad guy.

Cynthia Eden always brings a fresh voice to her story telling ability with each new book and you can tell it was a well-crafted researched book.  Never once do you find yourself questioning the believability of the story that pulls you in from chapter 1.  The romance keeps you on your toes just as much as the suspense does and you find yourself wondering will Anthony walk away again after the mystery is solved. 

The ending of the book is action packed twist and turns you never see coming no matter how many time you read it! In one word WOW!

Read this book on Kindle Unlimited and plan to read Scream For Me a soon as my heart stops racing from this nonstop thriller ride.

Cynthia Eden has just gained another fan.

Thanks Heidi for this review

Published:  Published November 12th 2013 by MontlakeRomance
ISBN: 9781477848340Copyright: 2013
Pages: 356
Quick Review: 5 stars (out of 5)
Where I Obtained the Book:  Amazon Unlimited

Synopsis:  She’s the obsession two men share: one wants her love, the other wants her life.
A shared passion for justice first brought Baton Rouge district attorney Lauren Chandler and US marshal Anthony Ross together—when each played their part in bringing down the infamous Bayou Butcher. The sparks flying between the two made it clear they weren’t just a legal dream team. Then desire had to make way for duty, and what they had was done. But it would never be over.

Five years later, it’s none other than the Butcher who gets things started again, when his shocking jailbreak reunites the lawyer and the lawman…and reignites their love. But this time, the pair is in danger of being permanently parted—by a killer with revenge on his mind, and Lauren on the top of his list. As a new wave of terror sweeps through the streets and swamps of Baton Rouge, one man will pit his boundless passion against another’s relentless hate, for the life of the woman who obsesses them both.
Cynthia Eden
Author Information:  New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Cynthia Eden has written over thirty novels and novellas. She was named as a 2013 RITA® finalist for her paranormal romance, ANGEL IN CHAINS, and, in 2011, Cynthia Eden was a RITA finalist for her romantic suspense, DEADLY FEAR.

Cynthia is a southern girl who loves horror movies, chocolate, and happy endings. She has always wanted to write (don't most authors say that?), and particularly enjoys creating stories about monsters-vampires, werewolves, and even the real-life monsters who populate her romantic suspense stories.

Disclaimer for all reviews sent by the publisher, publicist or author for review.

THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC) ISSUED NEW RULES THAT WENT INTO EFFECT ON DECEMBER 1, 2009. THESE RULES STATE THAT PRODUCT REVIEWERS ON BLOGS MUST DISCLOSE WHETHER THEY RECEIVED REVIEW PRODUCTS FOR FREE OR RECEIVED MONETARY PAYMENT FOR SUCH REVIEWS. PAYMENT IS NEVER ACCEPTED IN EXCHANGE FOR A REVIEW OR BOOK MENTION UNLESS NOTED IN THE POST. THE RECEIPT OF ARCS OR FREE REVIEW COPIES IN NO WAY INFLUENCES OR HAS AN IMPACT ON THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THE BOOK REVIEWS POSTED ON THIS SITE.