[Review] When I'm Gone by Emily Bleeker

When I'm Gone by Emily Bleeker
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Publishing Date: March 15, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
366 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis

Dear Luke, First let me say—I love you… I didn’t want to leave you…

Luke Richardson has returned home after burying Natalie, his beloved wife of sixteen years, ready to face the hard job of raising their three children alone. But there’s something he’s not prepared for—a blue envelope with his name scrawled across the front in Natalie’s handwriting, waiting for him on the floor of their suburban Michigan home.

The letter inside, written on the first day of Natalie’s cancer treatment a year ago, turns out to be the first of many. Luke is convinced they’re genuine, but who is delivering them? As his obsession with the letters grows, Luke uncovers long-buried secrets that make him question everything he knew about his wife and their family. But the revelations also point the way toward a future where love goes on—in written words, in memories, and in the promises it’s never too late to keep.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

All I can say right now is wow. I just finished reading this book and I have a feeling it's going to stick with me for a while. I really couldn't believe some of the things that happened in here! Luke's wife Natalie passes away after battling cancer, leaving him with three children to raise on his own. Her best friend, Annie, is there to help, along with a student Natalie went to college with, Jessie. Right after Natalie's funeral, Luke starts receiving letters from Natalie, written during her last few months of life. Throughout these letters, Luke learns that his wife had secrets, and he's not sure how he feels about that. The more the letters reveal, the more Luke feels like he didn't really know his wife and he goes on a search to find the truth. 

When I first started reading this book, I honestly thought it was going to be like P.S. I Love You. And while I liked that movie (I'll admit, I didn't read the book), I didn't want to read something else exactly like it. But I gave it a few more chapters and realized that it wasn't anything like it, other than letters coming from your spouse who passed. There were a few things in here that I had a slight idea about, but I was genuinely surprised about a lot of this! I found my self yelling out loud, "WHAT?!" and "Seriously?!" Good thing my husband wasn't home to think I'm crazy! Ha! But honestly, I was really surprised by some of the events in here and I really liked how this book was written. Luke was really easy to connect with and Annie and Jessie were great supporting characters. There were so many things going on in this story that it was easy to stay hooked the entire time. I would highly recommend this one! I haven't read Bleeker's other book yet, Wreckage, but I plan to now! 

[Mini Review] Welcome Home, Cowboy by Annie Rains

Welcome Home, Cowboy by Annie Rains
Series: Hero's Welcome, #2
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing date: April 26, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
261 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

With its thriving military base, Seaside, North Carolina, is teeming with heroes of all stripes. But, as the Hero's Welcome series from Annie Rains continues, it takes a cowboy to rescue the town's newest resident from heartache.

After a bad breakup leaves Julie Chandler completely devastated, she comes to Seaside seeking a fresh start. A talented, compassionate yoga teacher, she has developed a program to help alleviate the effects of PTSD, but getting a bunch of bullheaded Marines into downward facing dog might be impossible. So Julie's shocked when one of her first students dives in headfirst—and almost tempts her to take down her walls with his easy smile and electrifying touch.

Ever since Texas cowboy turned Marine pilot Lawson Phillips lost a crew member in a helicopter accident, he hasn't been able to fly. When a psychologist orders him to attend, of all things, a yoga class, Lawson's outraged—until he finds out Julie is the instructor. She's beautiful, graceful, and completely guarded when it comes to his advances, but he's determined to find out what makes her tick. Because underneath Julie's hard shell is a woman Lawson knows he could fall for—and he's not ready for the ride to end.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

This was a fun, cute book to read and was exactly what I was looking for when I picked it up. If you follow my blog at all, you know that I LOVE romances. They always pull at my heartstrings and make me feel so many emotions. I love the ups and downs, being able to connect with characters, and connecting with their love story as well. 

While this is the second book in the series, I don't think you need to read the first to love the second. I haven't read the first one in the series and I never felt like I was missing something or couldn't connect with the characters. Because while it's part of a series, it's also a great standalone book. Julie and Lawson were really fun characters to get to know. They've both been through a lot of heartache, but have come out as stronger people. I thought the yoga aspect of this story was really fun and unique. I've tried yoga a few times and I really enjoy it, but I haven't stuck with it enough to get the full effects of it. However, I do agree that it can be a great stress reliever and help people in so many different ways. I also really loved the supporting characters in this book and thought they added a lot to the storyline. Overall, this was a good book and I can't wait to read what else Rains has. I also am tempted to go back and read the first in this series that I missed. 

[Mini Review] The Natural History of Us by Rachel Harris

The Natural History of Us by Rachel Harris
Series: The Fine of Art of Pretending, #2
Publisher: Spencer Hill Contemporary
Publishing Date: April 5, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
255 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

One class assignment. One second chance at love. The school player is all in. Now he needs to win back the sweet commitment girl who's forever owned his heart. 

Justin Carter has a secret. He's not the total player Fairfield Academy believes him to be. Not really. In fact, he used to be a one-woman guy...and his feelings for her never went away. Too bad he broke her heart three years ago and made sure to ruin any chance she'd ever forgive him. 

Peyton Williams is a liar. She pretends to be whole, counting down the days until graduation and helping her parents at the family ranch. But the truth is, she's done everything she can to get over Justin, and salvation is just around the corner. With graduation one short month away, she'll soon break free from the painful memories and start her life fresh. Of course, she has to get through working with him on one last assignment first. 

For Justin, nothing ever felt as right as being with Peyton, and now that fate's given him a shot at redemption, he's determined to make the most of it. And for Peyton...well, Justin Carter has always been her kryptonite.

My Mini Review

I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

I really liked this book. I thought it was a cute story and a second chance at love for these two. Justin and Peyton have a bit of a history that no one really knows anything about. But in their senior year of high school, they're paired together for a project. No better way to get these two talking again! I really loved when this happened and it forced both of them to figure out what they wanted and how to resolve their pasts. It was fun to watch these two get to know each other again. I have to say, this won't be the last Rachel Harris book I read! I think she's a great storyteller and I can't wait to find out what else she has. I also really want to go back and read the first book in this series. 

[Review] Off the Hook by Laura Drewry

Off the Hook by Laura Drewry
Series: Fishing for Trouble, #1
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: April 12, 2016
Format: ebook
257 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Welcome to The Buoys, a West Coast haven where love comes in with the tide. Perfect for readers of Jill Shalvis and Susan Mallery, the Fishing for Trouble series features three unforgettable brothers—each of whom is a great catch.

Major league pitcher Liam O'Donnell knows his best days are probably behind him, but that doesn't mean he's ready to retire and become a fishing guide. Still, after all the time he's spent chasing his dreams, he owes it to his brothers to pull his weight around the lodge. The Buoys is their father's legacy, and they can't let some developer take it from them. The one snag Liam isn't counting on is a blast from the past: his ex-wife.

The moment Kate Hadley steps out of the seaplane, she knows this assignment is going to be trickier than she thought. She has to persuade the owners to sell—and one of them is Liam O'Donnell. Ten years ago, she made the biggest mistake of her life when she married Liam during a fling in Vegas. Now he's her only lifeline in the middle of nowhere. Kate's trying to keep things cool, but Liam just reminds her of the scorching few nights they spent together—and tempts her to make new memories that are just as steamy as the old. 

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.

I really loved this book. It was so fun, cute, and unique. Plus there's something about second chances that I really love. Knowing that Liam and Kate were married once before and now have a second chance at love, ugh, it just pulls at my heart strings. I really loved that Kate had no idea Liam's family owned this fishing resort, and then when she finds out, she doesn't run the other way. Instead, she sticks though it, though for completely selfish reasons. Regardless, the more she gets to know Liam outside of their Vegas fantasy week and the rest of his family, she puts aside what she wants and really fights for their interests. 

I am really interested in finding out what happens to the other characters in this book, too! They were really great supporting characters and so many fun personalities. I think Drewry has a really great series here and I can't wait for what's next! 

[Mini Review] Country Heaven by Ava Miles

Country Heaven by Ava Miles
Series: Dare River #1
Publisher: Ava Miles, Inc.
Publishing Date: February 2015
319 Pages
Format: ebook
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

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?

My Mini Review

This was one of those free books that I grabbed from Amazon because it sounded really cute and fun. And that definitely held true. I loved reading about Rye and Tory and I loved their meet-cute. Even though Rye's manager(s) wanted Tory along for an image reason, Rye really wanted to spend time with her and thoroughly enjoyed her cooking. It was interesting to see how they made each other better in everyday life and when Rye's family needs him, Tory is right there to help. I'm really interested in reading the other books in this series; I think there's a lot of potential here for a great series!

[Review] After We Fall by Marquita Valentine

After We Fall by Marquita Valentine
Series: Take the Fall, #3
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: April 26, 2016
Format: ARC, ebook
176 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

A tough cop with an even tougher past, Hunter Sloan has never let anyone stop him from getting what he wants—and he wants Evangeline Ambrose bad. With her gentle curves and raw vulnerability, Hunter’s beautiful, mysterious new neighbor awakens his protective side. Determined to do right by a woman who’s gone through hell and back, Hunter could be the one to take away the pain—so long as his own secrets don’t sink their relationship before it begins.

Having escaped an abusive marriage, Evangeline simply wants to start over in the small, quiet town of Forrestville. She’s also avoiding all contact with the opposite sex, because she just can’t trust her instincts when it comes to men—not even with the sinfully sexy cop next door. So why can’t she stop thinking about him? Hunter has darkness in his soul, and yet no one ever made her feel so safe. For all her best laid plans, Evangeline didn’t count on choices this hard—or temptation this hot.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

I had never heard of this author, but since I was approved for it on Netgalley, I wanted to give it a try. I figured it was a great day to start this yesterday since it was Valentine's Day and that's the authors last name! Plus, can you really go wrong with reading a romance novel, curled up with your kitty, with your husband next to you on Valentine's day? I think not. 

Regardless of the day I read this, I finished it in one day! It was a really quick, short read and I really loved the characters. Of course, there's something about a man in uniform and I have a soft spot for cops. My brother is a copy in Arizona and I used to work at a police department, and let me tell ya, some of those copes were very easy on the eyes! So I knew right when I read this synopsis that I wanted to get a copy of this book. 

Hunter and Evangeline met in really terrible circumstances, but since then, he hasn't been able to forget about her. Months later she moves in across the hall from him as his new neighbor and things get interesting. It was so fun to watch these two together. They both have a a very difficult past, but learn to overcome it together. It wasn't entirely unpredictable, but I still had an idea of what was going to happen. However, it didn't take away for the cuteness of the story. I definitely will be checking out what else Valentine's written!

[Review] Call Me, Maybe by Ellie Cahill

Call Me, Maybe by Ellie Cahill
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: Feb. 9, 2016
217 Pages
Format: ebook, ARC
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 5 stars

Synopsis 

Clementine Daly knows she’s the black sheep. Her wealthy, powerful family has watched her very closely since she almostgot caught in an embarrassing scandal a few years ago. So when Clementine’s sent on a mission to live up to the Daly name, politely declining isn’t even an option. Of course, the last thing Clementine does before departure is grab a stranger’s phone by mistake—leaving the hunky journalist with her phone. Soon his sexy voice is on the line, but he doesn’t know her real name, or her famous pedigree—which is just the way Clementine likes it.

Despite all the hassles, Justin Mueller is intrigued to realize that the beautiful brown-eyed girl he met at the airport is suddenly at his fingertips. They agree to exchange phones when they’re both back in town, but after a week of flirty texts and wonderfully intimate conversations, Justin doesn’t want to let her go that easy. The only problem? It turns out that Clemetine has been lying to him about, well, everything. Except for the one thing two people can’t fake, the only thing that matters: The heat between them is for real.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

O.M.G. I loved this book! I cruised through it in just a few hours and didn't want to put it down - but it was after midnight last night and I couldn't stay awake any longer! Seriously, this was such a fun, romantic book. I wasn't sure if the meeting over the phone and falling in love that way would work, but it really did. Clementine and Justin are really cute together. They meet after they accidentally switch phones before flying to other states and soon they're talking each day. You can feel the emotion and the new romance budding while reading this book. It reminds me a little of when my husband and I first met. New romances are so much fun and I remember getting really giddy each time he would text or call me (we were doing a long distance relationship so I didn't get to see him much). To be honest, I still get giddy when he texts me (: I just loved everything about this story. It was cute, charming, and incredibly romantic. Plus, there were some steamy sex scenes! Even after the couple comes to a bump in the road, the story was still really cute and I couldn't wait for them to work it out. 

Both characters are easy to relate to. Clementine, though incredibly wealthy, has no idea what she wants to do with her life. She's gone to college, has hundreds of opportunities because of her well-known family, but still has no idea what she wants. I actually really love this about her - I have a few degrees, including my law degree, and I still feel like I don't know what I want with my life. Meanwhile, Justin knows exactly what he wants in life - to be a journalist, but he doesn't have the family business to help him. He works hard for what he wants and goes after it. Put both of them together and these two people are perfect for each other; they complement each other very well. 

Highly, highly recommend this book! I can't wait to read what else Cahill has written!

Buy Links:  Amazon | B & N |Google Play|  iTunes | Kobo

About the Author

Ellie Cahill is a freelance writer and also writes books for young adults under the name Liz Czukas. She lives outside Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with her husband, son, and the world’s loudest cat.

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

Giveaway 

($25.00 Amazon eGift Card)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

[Review] Embrace by S.E. Hall

Embrace by SE Hall
Series: Evolve, #2
Publishing Date: Sept. 26, 2013
297 Pages
Format: ebook
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

After the romantic gesture of the century, Evan Allen is now faced with no friends, ineligible to play ball...and too late to get the girl.

He's starting over alone and doesn't know quite how to proceed, until certain members of "The Crew" step in, taking him under their wing. 

It doesn't take the ladies long to notice him either.

Sometimes life doesn't go as you had planned. Sometimes, it goes better.

Embrace it.

Due to sexual content and scenes- MATURE audiences recommended. This is a NEW ADULT romance.

My Review 

After I finished reading Emerge, I immediately bought a copy of this book on my Kindle and jumped right in. I really liked Evan in Emerge and, thought I was happy with Laney and Dane getting together, I really wanted Evan to have a happy ending. The synopsis doesn't really tell you who his love interest is, but once you start reading, you find out that it's Whitley. Honestly, I wasn't a huge fan of her in Emerge, but she didn't have a big part it in. Plus, she was made to seem really clingy and whiney. But the more you read this book, the more you learn that she's a really sweet girl. She definitely grew up in a privileged family, but they didn't seem to dote on her very much and were more concerned about appearance.

Like in Emerge, I really loved the supporting characters in this book. Most of them are the same as those in Emerge, but we do meet a few new people and get to know some of the other characters better. I was a little surprised by how much of Laney and Dane's story continues on in this one. I thought it would be mostly about Evan and Whitley, but Laney and Dane's story really continues in this one. I like that, but at the same time, I wanted this to be just Evan and Whitley. Regardless, this was a really fun book and I cannot wait to read Sawyer's story! 

[Review] Emerge by S.E. Hall

Emerge by S.E. Hall
Series: Evolve, #1
Publishing Date: May 2013
353 Pages
Format: ebook
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Laney Walker is a quick witted, athletic, southern tomboy who lets few get too close, using her sarcastic zingers to deflect and no idea how others view her.

Evan Allen's always been "friend zoned" yet protected and coveted Laney since they were children. But college puts a gap between them that neither were prepared for- old relationships are tested, new ones are formed and nothing will ever be the same.

Especially when in walks one Dane Kendrick, not at all the familiar, southern charmer of home, but an animal all his own.

A story of growing up, friendship, loyalty, first love, primal love...and life. Mature content.

My Review

Free books on Amazon are a hit or miss with me, but I like downloading them anyways to find new authors. Let me tell you, I am so glad that I downloaded this one when I had the chance! I was drawn in and hooked from the first page. Laney and Evan have been best friends for years, but senior year, everything changes and they become more. But it only lasts a short time because they each move away to college. They go through some ups and downs together, but they remain good friends. Then Dane comes into the picture and things change. There was definitely a love triangle going on in this story, but it didn't bother me at all. In fact, it probably made everything that much better. Both Dane and Evan want to be with Laney, and she has no idea what to do because she likes (loves) them both in different ways.

Dane is devoted to Laney and will do anything he can to keep her his, including taking her on vacations, showing her with gifts and being an all around good guy. Meanwhile, Evan has always been Laney's best friend and has put her on a pedestal. It's really fun to see these relationships grow. I had my heart set on one of the relationships working over the other and thankfully, I got what I wanted! 

This was such a fun book. I couldn't put it down and I couldn't wait to read the next in the series (if you don't want spoilers, don't read the synopsis of the next book). I really liked all the characters and they each brought their own something to the story. I loved this book so much that right when I finished it, I went onto Amazon and bought the next! 

[Review] Finding Pride by Jill Sanders

Finding Pride by Jill Sanders
Series: The Pride #1
Publishing date: Dec. 21, 2013
Format: ebook
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Megan Kimble has finally freed herself from years of abuse at the hands of her ex. Now she can finally start a new life and figure out just who she really is. When her brother Matt dies suddenly, she takes a big risk and moves cross country to live in his house and take over his new business. This could be the chance she’s needed. There’s only one problem now. She can’t seem to escape the irresistible charm of her departed brother’s best friend. 

Todd Jordan just lost his best friend and business partner. Watching Matt’s sister move into town, his attraction to her is instant. Can he prove to her that all men are not the same, and resist his own desires as she learns to trust again? Overcoming the odds is just part of their journey. The two must first survive a fateful visit from Megan’s ex to have any chance at happiness.

My Review

I downloaded this book when it was free on Amazon and I'm glad I found it. This book was fun but emotional dealing with loss of a loved one and domestic violence. Megan moves across country when her brother dies, moving into his house and continuing with his dream of creating a cozy, small resort. From the beginning of her new life in Pride, Megan is comforted by the Jordan siblings; Todd Jordan most of all. I liked watching these two characters slowly get to know each other and create a relationship. Megan is hesitant after her past relationship, but Todd knows how to treat her with care and show her not all men are as bad as her ex. 

I enjoyed this book and the characters; they were well developed and original. I'm interested in reading the next book in the series and those characters seem very promising as well!

[Review] Don't You Cry by Mary Kubica

Don't You Cry by Mary Kubica
Publisher: MIRA
Publishing Date: June 1, 2016
384 Pages
Format: ebook, ARC
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 4 stars

Synopsis 

In downtown Chicago, a young woman named Esther Vaughan disappears from her apartment without a trace. A haunting letter addressed to My Dearest is found among her possessions, leaving her friend and roommate Quinn Collins to wonder where Esther is and whether or not she's the person Quinn thought she knew. 

Meanwhile, in a small Michigan harbor town an hour outside Chicago, a mysterious woman appears in the quiet coffee shop where eighteen-year-old Alex Gallo works as a dishwasher. He is immediately drawn to her charm and beauty, but what starts as an innocent crush quickly spirals into something far more dark and sinister than he ever expected. 

As Quinn searches for answers about Esther, and Alex is drawn further under the stranger's spell, master of suspense Mary Kubica takes readers on a taut and twisted thrill ride that builds to a stunning conclusion and shows that no matter how fast and far we run, the past always catches up with us in the end.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

This is the first book I have read by Mary Kubica and it definitely won't be the last. I have The Good Girl on my shelf right now, which is why I requested this one through Netgalley. I couldn't pass up the opportunity to read this! 

I really enjoyed reading this book and I can't wait to read what else Kubica has to offer. This book takes place in Chicago and a small town in Michigan. Quinn is trying to figure out what happened to her roommate Esther, while Alex is trying to figure out a little about the mysterious girl who appeared in town. There are so many different things going on in this book, but I didn't find it confusing. The characters are interesting but I found myself annoyed a few times. Mostly because Quinn was so easy to jump to conclusions and Alex was so easy to believe everything this mysterious girl told him. But regardless of that, this was a very intriguing story. I couldn't figure out what was going on until the last few chapters. 

It wasn't a very fast-paced story, but it was steady and kept me interested the entire time. 

[Review] Best of Me by Elisabeth Barrett

The Best of Me by Elisabeth Barrett
Series: Return to Briarwood, #2
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: Jan. 5, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Jane Pringle never meant to fall for her boss. After landing a job as a pastry chef at the exclusive Briarwood Golf and Yacht Club in Eastbridge, Connecticut, she just wants to keep her son in a good school district and find some peace and quiet, far away from her manipulative ex-husband. But when Briarwood’s charismatic co-owner takes an interest in her, Jane’s best-laid plans go awry . . . in the sweetest way possible.

Rich and handsome, the grandson of one of the most powerful men in New York City, Preston North hasn’t lived quite the charmed life everyone believes. His family taught him everything he needs to know about betrayal—and Press wants no more of it. What he wants is Jane. The gorgeous single mom is selfless and kind, plus she’s got a backbone. To win her trust, Press just needs to shake off his playboy reputation.

They’ve each been burned in the past. But now Press and Jane will have to choose between letting their fears get the best of them . . . or breaking free and following their hearts.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

I read the first book in this series over my Christmas break from work and I fell in love with these characters, the community, and Barrett's writing style. I couldn't wait to read Jane and Preston's story in this book, so I dove right in! Let me tell you, it didn't disappoint! 

In Once and Again (review here) we met Jane and Preston, though briefly. We learned of struggles that Jane was going through, but not too much about Preston. In this book, we definitely find out more about Jane's struggles with her ex-husband and the lengths he will go to to make Jane's life difficult. Meanwhile, Preston appears completely in control of his life on the outside, but on the inside, he struggles with his father's death and his choices after. Both Jane and Preston are a little broken, but together, they complement each other perfectly. 

This book has very developed characters and I loved reading their story. Both Jane and Preston are easy to like and sympathize with, and they're strong in their own ways. Throughout the story, we see their struggles, but they help each other and grow to become and even stronger couple. You don't necessarily need to read the first book in this series before reading this one. The characters overlap, but the stories are stand-alones. 

Others in the Series

Once and Again by Elisabeth Barrett

[Review] Mean Streak by Sandra Brown

Mean Streak by Sandra Brown
Publisher: Grand Central
Publishing Date: 2014
Format: paperback and ebook
409 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 5 Stars

Synopsis 

Dr. Emory Charbonneau, a pediatrician and marathon runner, disappears on a mountain road in North Carolina. By the time her husband Jeff, miffed over a recent argument, reports her missing, the trail has grown cold. Literally. Fog and ice encapsulate the mountainous wilderness and paralyze the search for her.

While police suspect Jeff of "instant divorce," Emory, suffering from an unexplained head injury, regains consciousness and finds herself the captive of a man whose violent past is so dark that he won't even tell her his name. She's determined to escape him, and willing to take any risks necessary to survive. 

Unexpectedly, however, the two have a dangerous encounter with people who adhere to a code of justice all their own. At the center of the dispute is a desperate young woman whom Emory can't turn her back on, even if it means breaking the law.

As the FBI closes in on her captor, Emory begins to wonder if the man with no name is, in fact, her rescuer.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for a honest review. So, I received a free copy of this but completely forgot and bought the book anyways! So I mostly read my paperback copy, but switched to the ebook version when I was at the gym. 

I'm a huge fan of everything Sandra Brown writes. I started out reading all of her romance novels and then I moved to her romantic suspense novels. I absolutely love her work and the romantic suspense novels are fantastic. This book was no exception and might be one of my favorites (maybe tied with Chill Factor). The characters in this book are very interesting and easy to like. Emory is a well-known doctor who goes missing and her husband is the prime suspect. But throughout the whole story, we get Emory's perspective, and she's not missing. There's so much going on throughout this book that it keeps you hooked. It's so fast-paced and I never really saw the end coming. I guessed a few things, but certainly not the biggest! 

I highly, highly recommend this book, or any other books by Brown. I can't wait to start reading Friction, the next on my list! 

[Review] Once and Again by Elisabeth Barrett

Once and Again by Elisabeth Barrett
Series: Return to Briarwood, #1
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: July 14, 2015
302 Pages
Format: ARC, ebook
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 5 stars

Synopsis 

Growing up in Eastbridge, Connecticut, Carolyn Rivington was a young debutante who did whatever her parents asked. So when her father demanded that she break things off with the boy from the wrong side of the tracks or else, she did. Now Carolyn’s family is deep in debt. She’s no longer a member of the Briarwood Golf and Yacht Club, she’s an employee. And the tanned, tattooed, dangerously handsome stranger who saunters into her lobby isn’t just her new boss . . . he’s also her first love.

The last time he saw Carolyn, Jake Gaffney was in the back of a police cruiser, handcuffed and humiliated. But seeing her again stirs other memories: a blanket on the beach, the moon above their heads, and the most expensive bottle of wine he could afford. Now the tables have turned. As a real-estate magnate and Briarwood’s new owner, Jake doesn’t have to answer to anyone. But now that he’s back home, he’s finding it hard to live down his old reputation.

Before they can move forward, Jake and Carolyn must face their pasts. But it’ll take more than sizzling chemistry for them to heal old wounds and return to the love they once shared. 

My Review

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

What a great way to start out my new year for books! This was a great novel by Barrett. I started it this morning when I was biking at the gym, and finished it while my husband was playing video games. We had a very relaxing day and I'm glad I was able to enjoy this book during it!

Carolyn used to be very wealthy, but she learned about a yea ago that her family doesn't have any money left, and she doesn't know what to do. So she returns to Briarwood, a club that she grew up attending with her family, and the same place she met Jake 15 years ago. They had a young, forbidden romance and both ended up broken-hearted. Jake has now come back to Briarwood as well, and the two have to learn to work together to make this business successful. Both of these characters were easy to love and relate to. Carolyn, although born with a silver spoon, really has no idea how to survive without her family's wealth. But she learns the hard way and perseveres. Jake on the other hand, grew up with next to nothing and has made himself into a multi-millionaire. Both characters are very charismatic, and I immediately loved Jake. Seriously, who doesn't love a tatted, rough-around-the-edges guy? No brainer for me! 

I love that these two characters have a history together and are getting a second chance at love. They had a lot to overcome throughout the story, but made their love work. I also really loved that this novel wasn't just about these two. We find out a little about Jane, Carolyn's new friend, and her struggles, as well as legal problems that Carolyn is facing with her family. There's so much going on in this book and it was hard to put down! Which, clearly, I didn't do much, other than to get food (: Highly recommend! And I just got the second one in this series, which I can't wait to read! 

Next in this series: 

Best of Me by Elisabeth Barrett

NetGalley TBR list 2016

This year, I really want to read all the books I currently have on my Kindle from Netgalley. I hate that I've left them on there so long without reading them. So I've made my list below of all the Netgalley books I have on my Kindle as of today and my goal is to read them all, in no particular order, by the end of 2016 (if not sooner). 

1. Call Me, Maybe by Ellie Cahill (review here)

2. Power Play by Sophia Henry

3. The Bitter Season by Tami Hoag

4. Devil's Bridge by Linda Fairstein

5. Once and Again by Elisabeth Barrett (review here)

6. Mean Streak by Sandra Brown (review here)

7. The Alphabet House by Jussi Adler-Olsen

8. The Competition by Marcia Clark 

9. Killer Ambition by Marcia Clark

10. Guilt by Association by Marcia Clark

11. Guilt by Degrees by Marcia Clark 

12. The Word Exchange by Alena Graedon 

13. The Tyrant's Daughter by JC Carleson

14. Sleigh Bells in the Snow by Sarah Morgan 

15. Doing Harm by Kelly Parsons

16. Last Train to Istanbul by Ayse Kulin

[Mini Review] Once Upon a Cowboy by Maggie McGinnis

Once Upon a Cowboy by Maggie McGinnis
Series: Whisper Creek, #3
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: June 30, 2015
Format: ebook
285 pages
Goodreads

Synopsis 

In this sexy Whisper Creek romance for readers of Kristan Higgins, Susan Mallery, and Molly O’Keefe, a red-hot cowboy uses some Montana magic to give a reclusive beauty her happily ever after.

Yoga instructor Jessalyn Alcott radiates peace, calm, and serenity—on the outside. Inside, she still feels like the broken, desperate girl from the trailer park. She’s got dark secrets she can’t share, which is why she never lets her relationships go beyond the third date. But when she travels to the Whisper Creek dude ranch for a friend’s wedding, Jess is enchanted by a cowboy whose deep blue eyes, dimpled smile, and rock-hard body make it tough to remember why she keeps running scared.

Cole Driscoll has struggled to find his place on a family ranch where he’s always played second fiddle. His future might be uncertain, but he’s sure of one thing: He wants Jess by his side. Easier said than done. When it comes to getting close, she’s full of excuses, and he longs to fix the hurt he sees in her eyes. Now that she’s at Whisper Creek, there’s nothing he wants more than to break down the walls around her heart and heal her pain with the power of love.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

I read this book earlier this year and really enjoyed it. I just realized, as I was making lists for this upcoming year, that I never reviewed it! Oops! So I thought I would write a mini review of this one since it's been a while since I read it, but still wanted to give it the attention it deserves. There's just something about cowboys that intrigue me though I've never met a one. Maybe it's because they're working outside all day, riding horses, being with animals. I don't know. But it's pretty sexy (at least, it is in books). I know real life might not be quite that sexy, but dang, these authors know how to write about them! Jessalyn has a lot of secrets and wants to keep to herself. But once she meets Cole, it's a game changer and she won't ever be the same. This was a fun, romantic read with a lot of emotions. I've read other novels by McGinnis and I can't wait to read more! 

[Review] *Tour* Ryker by Sawyer Bennett

Ryker
Cold Fury Hockey # 4

By: Sawyer Bennett

Released September 8, 2015  

Loveswept

Synopsis

The rugged men of the Carolina Cold Fury hockey team are winning hearts once again in another scorching novel from New York Times bestselling author Sawyer Bennett.

The stakes have never been higher for Carolina Cold Fury goalie Ryker Evans. With his contract running out, he’s got a year left to prove he’s still at the top of his game. And since his wife left him, Ryker has been balancing life as a pro-hockey star and a single parent to two daughters. Management is waiting for him to screw up. The fans are ready to pounce. Everybody’s taking dirty shots—except for the fiery redhead whose faith in Ryker gives him a fresh start.

As the league’s only female general manager, Gray Brannon has learned not to mix business with pleasure. And yet even this tough, talented career woman can’t help breaking her own rules as she gives Ryker everything she’s got. She hopes their hot streak will last forever, but with Ryker’s conniving ex plotting to reclaim her man, the pressure is on Gray to step up and save a tender new love before it’s too late.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

I've read the other books in this series and really liked them! They're fun, full of hockey (yay!) and romantic. And if you've read any of my other reviews, then you know I'm a sucker for guys with kids. There's just something about reading about the love of parents and children. Ryker's little girls are so cute and he clearly adores them. 

I also really love strong female characters and Gray is definitely one of those! She's the only female general manager of a hockey team and knows that she has to show the world her ability to do the job. But I love that she knows it might not be completely worth it if it means giving up her chance for a family. This really is a sweet book and I'm so glad I had the chance to read this one. Can't wait to see what else Ms. Bennett has in store for us.

Link to Follow Tour:  

http://www.tastybooktours.com/2015/06/ryker-cold-fury-hockey-4-by-sawyer.html

Goodreads Link: 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23834721-ryker?ac=1

Goodreads Series Link: 

https://www.goodreads.com/series/125350-cold-fury-hockey

Buy Links:   

Amazon | B & N | iTunes | Kobo

Other Books in the Cole Fury Series

ALEX: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | Kobo

GARRETT: Amazon | Barnes | iTunes | Kobo

ZACK: Amazon | B & N | iTunes | Kobo

About the Author

USA Today and New York Times Best-Selling Author, Sawyer Bennett is a snarky southern woman and reformed trial lawyer who decided to finally start putting on paper all of the stories that were floating in her head. Her husband works for a Fortune 100 company which lets him fly all over the world while she stays at home with their daughter and three big, furry dogs who hog the bed. Sawyer would like to report she doesn’t have many weaknesses but can be bribed with a nominal amount of milk chocolate.

Sawyer is the author of several contemporary romances including the popular Off Series, the Legal Affairs Series and the Last Call Series. She will be releasing her third book in the Cold Fury Hockey Series with Random House Loveswept, June 2015.

Facebook | Twitter | Website | GoodReads

Rafflecopter Giveaway 
(Select Loveswept Ebook Bundle)

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and this one:
(Ryker Jersey)

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[Review] *Book Tour* Summer at the Shore by V.K. Sykes

Summer at the Shore
Seashell Bay # 2

By: V.K. Sykes

Releasing June 30, 2015

Grand Central: Forever

Synopsis 

JUST A SUMMER FLING?

Morgan Merrifield sacrificed her teaching career to try to save her family's bed-and-breakfast and care for her younger sister. She can't let herself get distracted by Ryan Butler. After all, the rugged ex-Special Forces soldier is only in Seashell Bay for the summer. But her longtime crush soon flares into real desire-and with one irresistible kiss, she's swept away.

Ryan values his freedom. As much as he wants Morgan, he's not ready to settle down with anyone, much less in sleepy Seashell Bay. But his code of honor doesn't allow him to leave a woman in distress-and she's in desperate need of help to fix the inn. It only takes one day working under the same roof and Ryan is already hoping for a lifetime of hot summer nights . . .

Link to Follow Tour:  

http://www.tastybooktours.com/2015/03/summer-at-shore-seashell-bay-2-by-vk.html

Goodreads Link: 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23341861-summer-at-the-shore?from_search=true 

Goodreads Series Link: 

https://www.goodreads.com/series/129828-seashell-bay

Buy Links:  Amazon | B &N | iTunes | Kobo | Publisher

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

I hadn't read the first book in this series when I signed up and started this one. But I soon learned that you don't really need to. The characters overlap, but it didn't ruin anything for me by not reading the first. Morgan and Ryan have known each other for years, growing up on the same small island and going to high school together. They both had crushes on each other... but never found out until they are reconnected when Ryan comes back to the island for the summer. 

I enjoyed reading about these two characters, and the many others that are involved in their island life. Morgan is trying to save her father's inn after he passes away unexpectedly, but it's a lot more than she's prepared for, financially and emotionally. And Ryan is trying to figure out what he wants to do in life as he takes a leave of absence from his job as a high profile body guard. They both have so many emotional issues to deal with but they learn how to with each other's help. This book definitely had a lot of feels and it was a fun journey. And the setting was beautiful (at least how I pictured it in my head!) and it really makes me want to take a trip to the New England area!

About the Author

V.K. Sykes is really two people – Vanessa Kelly and Randy Sykes, a husband and wife team who write USA Today Bestselling contemporary romance and also romantic suspense. Randy excels at plot and characterization, but tends to fall down on the job when it comes to that pesky old thing called emotion. That’s where Vanessa steps in. She usually writes the sex scenes too, since Randy is a bit uncomfortable when it comes to that sort of stuff. Vanessa also writes award-winning Regency-set historical romance for Kensington Zebra under her own name. You can check out Vanessa’s bestselling historical romances at www.vanessakellyauthor.com

Author Links:  Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads 

Giveaway 

Grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card; 4 runner-up prizes - each of those winners will receive a copy of Meet Me at the Beach and a copy of Wedding Bells in Christmas, by Debbie Mason

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