Book Review: My Kind of Forever by Tracy Brogan

My Kind of Forever by Tracy Brogan

Publisher & Release: Montlake Romance, January 22, 2019

Time and setting:  Present Day, Trillium Bay

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Book Length:  269 Pages

Heat Level: 1 Flame

Rating: 3.5 Gold Crowns

Book Description: 

As the youngest mayor Trillium Bay has ever elected, Brooke Callaghan wants to prove she’s up to the challenge. She’s stepping out of her practical teacher flats and into her sister’s treacherously high heels…with disastrous results. But if she’s going to (literally) stumble her first day on the job, why not fall into the arms of a handsome stranger?

Leo Walker is a rarity on Wenniway Island. Not only handsome, he’s also single, funny, and—most importantly—interested in Brooke. Unfortunately, his reasons for being on the island are temporary, so in spite of the undeniable chemistry between them, he’s not a forever kind of guy.

When a private investigator arrives with news of a jewel thief hiding on the island, Brooke finds herself dealing with one kerfuffle after another, and Leo proves to be a delicious distraction. What does she really know about him, though? And the biggest question of all? Does this short-term romance hold the possibility of long-term love?

Buy Link:

https://smile.amazon.com/Kind-Forever-Trillium-Novel-Book-ebook/dp/B07DQVBQ7D

Add to Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40626429-my-kind-of-forever

Vikki’s Musings

This is the second book in the Trillium Bay series, and I enjoyed it. Thanks goes the publisher, via Net Galley, for the opportunity to read and review. My opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.

This book has a great deal to offer. The small—town aspect is well done. Ms. Brogan’s writing is clean and flows well. The characters are engaging, including the secondary characters. The plot is unique, and there are a lot of delightfully humorous moments.

The heroine’s character is enjoyable for the most part. She certainly has plenty of energy and wants to do a great job as the new mayor. However, her lack of self-esteem made it hard for me to imagine her running a success campaign to win an elected seat. To me, it seems out of character. Nonetheless, I found her appealing and wanted her to find her happy ending.

As a hero, Elliot is a mixed bag. He isn’t a straight up guy with her and hides secrets even after they become romantically involved. Those flaws make it hard for me to admire him. Although, he does redeem his character by the end of the book.

The romance between the hero and heroine is strong and I enjoyed how their relationship developed. The chemistry is fairly intense at times, the love scenes are based more in the emotions than their physical attraction, not that there’s any lack of that.

If you enjoy a romance with engaging characters and plenty of humor, then you will enjoy Ms. Brogan’s newest offering. Although this one was not as enjoyable as the first book in the series, I still enjoyed it and will read the next book when it comes out. Happy reading!

Book Review: Dare Me Again by Shelly Alexander

Dare Me Again by Shelly Alexander

Publisher & Release: Montlake Romance, January 15, 2019

Time and setting:  Present Day, USA

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Book Length:  285 Pages

Heat Level: 1 Flame

Rating: 4 Gold Crowns

Book Description: 

Hot-wired and restless, financial wizard Elliott Remington doesn’t turn down a dare. This time it’s to coordinate a service-dog boot camp for veterans at his family’s resort. Success means a one-way ticket to the West Coast to pursue his dream career. But it comes with a hitch: teaming up with his ex, who vanished on him ten years ago with nothing more than a kiss-off note.

As fiery as her hair and as stubborn as her name, Rebel Tate did what she had to do—for Elliott’s sake and her own. A dog whisperer with a keen sense of survival, she’s lived a tough life. Here she is, back in Angel Fire Falls, doing what she loves, next to a man she’s never forgotten. While the flame between them still smolders, neither is ready to get burned.

For Elliott, trusting Rebel is a gamble. For Rebel, sharing the secrets that sent her running is a risk. Now, while finishing a job that could define both their futures, two hearts are about to collide—and a second chance at true romance could be the greatest dare of all.

Buy Link:

https://smile.amazon.com/Dare-Again-Angel-Fire-Falls-ebook/dp/B07FD9PWDD

Add to Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40787260-dare-me-again

Vikki’s Musings

This is the second book in the Angel Falls series. I read the Dare Me Once and thoroughly enjoyed it, so I eagerly looked forward to reading Dare Me Again. Thanks goes the publisher, via Net Galley, for the opportunity to read and review. My opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.

The premise for this book is very interesting, and I enjoyed the characters a great deal. Ms. Alexander did a great job giving enough detail regarding the dog training without becoming too technical. The pacing is good, and the dialogue is realistic and flows well.

 Rebel Tate is an intriguing character, and I liked her a lot. She had a rough start in life, but her perseverance has carried her through. Her love for rescue animals is commendable and came through loud and clear. Although she left Angel Falls on bad terms, she is brave enough to return and try to make it right.

Elliott Remington is a drool-worthy hero, and while he’s driven, he’s open minded and is willing to reveal his secrets to Rebel as she opens up to her. Theirs is a give and take relationship, and I enjoyed it tremendously.

The romance between Rebel and Elliott is great with plenty of sparks flying in all directions from their first meeting. The chemistry is strong, and the love scenes are satisfying. I really wanted them to find their happy ending.

If you enjoy contemporary romance with engaging characters and an interesting plot, along with a bit of humor, then you will enjoy Dare Me Again. I look forward to the next book in this great series. Happy reading!

Book Review: A Merciful Fate by Kendra Elliot

Merciful Fate by Kendra Elliott

Publisher & Release: Montlake Romance, January 15, 2019

Time and setting:  Present Day, USA

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Book Length:   Pages

Heat Level: 1 Flame

Rating: 4 Gold Crowns

Book Description: 

Raised by preppers, survivalist and FBI agent Mercy Kilpatrick has a deep-rooted need for a safe place. Her getaway in the Cascade Foothills is her secret. But when skeletal remains are unearthed—those of a murdered man linked to a notorious heist—Mercy realizes she isn’t the only one with something to hide.

Thirty years ago, an armored-car robbery turned deadly. The mastermind was captured. Four conspirators vanished with a fortune. One of them, it appears, never made it out of the woods alive. For Mercy and her fiancé, Police Chief Truman Daly, their investigation opens old wounds in Eagle’s Nest that cut deeper than they imagined. Especially when a reckless tabloid reporter draws fresh blood. It’s clear to Mercy that somebody in this close-knit community is not who they seem to be.

Some are still shattered by the heist. Some still have reason to be afraid. But which one will kill again and again to hide three decades of secrets? To land this case, it’s up to Mercy to unmask a familiar stranger before someone else dies.

Buy Link:

https://smile.amazon.com/Merciful-Fate-Mercy-Kilpatrick-Book-ebook/dp/B07C854RL5

Add to Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39888482-a-merciful-fate

Vikki’s Musings

I always know I’m in for a treat with a new release from Kendra Elliott. When I received an invitation from the publisher, via Net-Galley, I eagerly agreed to read and review the fifth book in her Mercy Kilpatrick series. My opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.

As with all of Ms. Elliot’s books, the characters are real and flawed, the plot is intriguing and there’s plenty of emotions running high. One of the things I enjoy most about her books is the suspenseful scenes. She has a way of keeping me on the edge of my seat from the first page until the last.

I love Mercy’s character and in each of these books, it only grows stronger. While she’s complicated and has a lot of pent-up issues, she never lets them hold her back. She’s fierce in her determination to be the best FBI agent possible and protects her niece like a mama bear.

Truman is a drool-worthy hero any woman will love, and I’m one of them. He’s an honorable, caring man, and he’s so patient with Mercy. He never lets anything rattle him, whether it’s a case or Mercy. 

While the romance is secondary in Merciful Fate, it’s still strong and adds a lot to the story. In Merciful Fate, Mercy and Truman’s relationship has progressed quite a lot, which pleased me immensely. 

The suspense in this book builds as the tale of mystery and intrigue unfolds. Lots of good things to move the plot along. Ms. Elliott keeps her cards tight against her chest, so I was completely surprised by the characters involved in the heist.

If you enjoy a novel with plenty of high suspense with a great “who-done-it plot,” then you will love Merciful Fate. I do recommend reading the other books in this series before reading this one, so you’ll fully appreciate Mercy and Truman. Happy reading!

Book Blitz: Before We Were Perfect by S.D. Moore

Drama, Dramatic Comedy, Women's Fiction

Publisher: Moon Leaf Publishing

Published: January 2018

Before We Were Perfect has been adapted into an award-winning screenplay titled Perfectly Normal in Flagstaff. The screenplay won Best Feature Script in the 2018 Top Indie Film Awards and a 2018 Silver Screen award in the Nevada International Film Festival.

Inspired by true events; Before We Were Perfect is a dramatic comedy about the Havreaux family and their ragin' Cajun uncle. Julz Havreaux is a beautiful young woman with imperfections who meets an imperfect handsome wounded warrior turned writer. Through comedic mishaps and drama, they discover that in spite of their imperfections they are perfect together. Contains adult themes, intense drama, sensuality, humor, and love.

About the Author

Multiple award-winning Author: S.D. Moore writes in spite of being a brain-damaged, heart damaged Air Force veteran who also battles Lupus. She is the author of the award-winning screenplay, Perfectly Normal in Flagstaff which won a 2018 Silver Screen award in the Nevada International Film Festival. S.D. is also the author of Readers' Favorite 2017 International Gold Medal (1st place) winning horror novel Wicked Prayers, the award-winning Adventures of PJ and Split Pea and the workbook Basics to Business: Minding Your Business with Excel. She is also a patented inventor of The Portable Hot Sink System; has an ABD towards a Doctorate of Education, holds dual master's degrees in management and human resources development.

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Book Review: Nameless by Marni MacRae

Nameless by Marni MacRae

Publisher & Release: Self-published, September 26, 2017

Time and setting:  Present Day, Kentucky

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Women’s Fiction

Book Length:  375 Pages

Heat Level: 1 Flame

Rating: 5 Gold Crowns

Book Description: 

A young woman awakes in a field with no memory of how she got there or who she is. Struggling to put the pieces together from a past just out of memory’s reach, Eve finds a new name and a new beginning in Brighton Valley. But no matter how safe she feels or how much she grows to love the people in her new life, Eve knows her past holds a secret that may destroy her chance at happiness.

Driving along highway 83, Nick happens upon a girl on the side of the road. Soaked to the bone with rain and battling back fear of a past she can’t recall, Nick is drawn to the strength of soul and frail beauty the young woman possesses. Naming her Eve to help her fill the void, Nick finds he cannot resist the draw to know her, protect her. But the closer he gets to the sweet, mysterious, Eve, the harder it becomes to let go. And he knows he must. For Eve cannot truly be his until she confronts the demons of her past.

Nameless shows us the heart of what family means, beyond blood and name. How one person can affect so many, changing hearts in the process of finding her place in the world. Can Eve choose love with an empty slate? And if her memories return can that love endure the choices they bring?

Buy Link:

https://smile.amazon.com/Nameless-Marni-MacRae-ebook/dp/B075YDQ48P

Add to Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36314595-nameless

Vikki’s Musings

Wow, just wow. Loved Nameless from the first page to the last! The characters are vibrant, and the plot is emotionally charged with plenty of heart ❤. Thanks go to the author for reaching out to me and letting me know about her amazing book!

Eve is enchanting and her wonder at everything new had me chuckling on multiple occasions. Her open, loving way stole my heart. Eve his so broken in the beginning but by the end she is a vibrant, fascinating woman who knows where she belongs.

Nick is such a fantastic hero. He's so patient and kind but still a strong, honorable man. His unconditional love and support for Eve is remarkable. It takes a great man to love so selflessly. He is willing to sacrifice all for Eve.

The romance, while very swift, is tender and filled with deep emotion. Eve and Nick fall for each other immediately and it only grows stronger throughout the book. I truly wanted them to find their happy ending.

The secondary characters are heart-warming and real. I am so glad I found this wonderful book. I highly recommend Nameless to all who enjoy a romance with engaging characters and one that shows a strong woman's path to finding herself. This is definitely not a typical romance but so much more. It's a story you don't want to miss. Happy ☺reading 📚!

Book Review: Hearts Abroad by Skye McNeil

Hearts Abroad by Skye McNeil

Publisher & Release: Hot Tree Publishing, February 2, 2019

Time and setting:  Present Day, Colorado & London

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Book Length:  300+ Pages

Heat Level: 1 Flame

Rating: 3.5 Gold Crowns

Book Description: 

Taking a break from screenwriting in New York City, Londyn Bellerose takes a nannying job in Colorado to get away from the hubbub. A summer to live without regrets is all she wants. While her boss is British, gorgeous, and a millionaire, he has no clue how to have fun. Determined to mend the relationship between father and daughters, Londyn doesn’t expect to fall for the museum curator.

Londyn is American and everything Callum Archer swore to never fall for again. With her carefree spirit and energetic smile, she’s perfect to nanny Callum’s two daughters. The problem is she’s also perfect for him. She’s sassy, musical, and tends to speak her mind more than she means to.

When old history and new dreams threaten her happily ever after, will Londyn and Callum’s love survive?

Buy Link:

https://smile.amazon.com/Hearts-Abroad-Millionaire-Single-Romance-ebook/dp/B07K6439W4

Add to Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40606101-hearts-abroad

Vikki’s Musings

This is the first book I’ve read by Skye McNeil, and I enjoyed it. Thanks goes the publisher, via Net Galley, for the opportunity to read and review. My opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.

I loved, loved Brittany and Bailey. They are so adorable and made the book so much fun to read. The dialogue is sparkling and natural. The premise is unique. Now, the pacing is a bit slow in the middle of the book and the story went on too long, but not so much that it took away from my overall enjoyment.

Londyn Bellerose’s character is endearing. Her growing love for Callum’s daughters is amazing and touched my heart. Londyn is a loyal friend and has a child-like side to her personality that is very appealing.

Callum is an engaging hero. He has a huge reason to mistrust women after what happened with his children’s mother. Most men would be hesitant to enter into a relationship with a woman who in some ways reminds him of Jessica. His character is a bit stiff at times, but not so much that it kept me from liking him.

Now, the romance between them has many lovely moments, but Ms. McNeil dragged out the physical attraction way too much, making the story much longer than it needed to be. Unfortunately, that did color my opinion a bit. Overall though, the chemistry between the hero and heroine is good, and the book has a satisfying and very romantic ending.

If you enjoy light-hearted romances with adorable children, and can overlook the sagging middle, then you will like Hearts Abroad. I do look forward to reading the next book in this series. Happy reading!

Book Review: Trailblazer by Anna Schmidt

Trailblazer by Anna Schmidt

Publisher & Release: Sourcebooks Casablanca, January 1, 2019

Time and setting:  1800s, America

Genre: Historical Romance

Book Length:  352 Pages

Heat Level: 1 Flame

Rating: 4.25 Gold Crowns

Book Description: 

MEET THE HARVEY GIRLS: These real-life pioneering women were symbols of elegance in the wild frontier: taming rough manners, falling in love, and changing the face of the West forever.

Grace Rogers is ready for the adventure of a lifetime. With her family's farm falling on hard times, she accepts a position with the prestigious Fred Harvey Company and heads for Juniper, New Mexico. There she meets a handsome cowboy who quickly turns her head. Too bad the Harvey Girls are forbidden to marry...

Nick Hopkins has a plan: buy a little land, marry, and raise a family—in that order. But after meeting Grace, he can't keep away. Their only choice is to marry in secret...but Nick isn't the only man entranced by Grace's charms, and this unexpected rival doesn't plan on taking no for an answer. He will have her, no matter the cost: to Grace, to Juniper, or to the happily ever after Grace and Nick fought so hard to make their own.

Buy Link:

https://smile.amazon.com/Trailblazer-Cowboys-Harvey-Girls-Book-ebook/dp/B07GC4CLXM

Add to Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39752293-trailblazer

Vikki’s Musings

Trailblazer has an interesting premise, so when I received an invitation from the publisher, via Net Galley, to read and review, I took the opportunity. My opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.

 Trailblazer is an engaging romance with endearing characters and a unique plot. The pacing is good and kept me enmeshed in the story. I thoroughly enjoyed the historical details involving the Harvey Girls. 

Grace Rogers’ character is extremely likable. I became vested right away and remained so until the last page. She is hard working, determined, and loyal. She wants to follow through on the commitments she made to her family. 

Nick Hopkins is a great hero. He has all the qualities I love most. His determination to earn Grace’s love and respect melted my heart. I truly wanted him to find his happy ending. He also doesn’t let adversity stand in his way either.

The romance between Nick and Grace is sweet and heartwarming. The sexual tension between them is strong. I loved the romantic setting Nick puts together for Grace, making sure she can not only feel his love but to see it as well. This is a lovely part of the story.

If you are a fan of western romance that takes you back to days gone by, then you will enjoy Trailblazer as much as I did. I found the Harvey Girls fascinating and can’t wait to read the next book in this series. Happy reading!