Synopsis

 

A millionaire and a woman who thinks he’s a house flipper are stuck living in a house together with a menagerie of rescue dogs as roommates, in this heartfelt romantic comedy from New York Times bestselling author Jaci Burton.

After her ex took all their money and bailed, Hazel Bristow is left broke and homeless. A kind friend whose home is on the market lets Hazel and her foster dogs stay there until it sells. It’s the perfect setup, until her friend forgets to tell Hazel she’s sold the house.

Linc Kennedy is shocked to find Hazel and her pups squatting in the house he just bought, but after some negotiating—she offers to cook amazing meals for him in return for a paycheck—he agrees to let her remain while he’s renovating the place. Linc tells Hazel he’s an investor who renovates homes for fun—he just leaves out the part about being wealthy.

Hazel’s intrigued by Linc. He’s funny, sweet, ridiculously hot, and loves dogs almost as much as she does. But her track record with men? Not great. She worries her trust meter isn’t in working order.

Linc’s never met anyone like the quirky beauty who puts everyone’s needs—human and canine—before her own. He didn’t tell her about his wealth because he’s been burned by women who only wanted him for his money. But with Hazel, he’s never felt more like himself. Now he has to figure out how to tell her the truth without losing her. Because Linc realizes what he feels for her isn’t puppy love—it’s true love.

 

 

 

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Review

 

This was just the right book for me to read at this moment. A light romance filled with DOGS!!! There are 6 of them altogether, which made my dog lovin’ heart happy.

I really liked Hazel and Linc’s characters. They were down to earth but still flawed. Hazel is getting over a disastrous marriage, and Linc is trying to move past women who only see him for his money. The chemistry between these two is HOT!

I read this just to enjoy the story and a little light reading. I sped through this book and didn’t want the story to end. I don’t know if this is a series, but I think Linc’s brother, Eugene, needs a book. I just feel like there is more to him than meets the eye. I think it would be cool is there was also a book about his other brother, Warren, and how he meets his husband and their relationship.

I also liked Linc’s mother. She is very down to earth and can see what her boys don’t see. But isn’t that a mother’s job? Hazel’s mom and sister are a bit of a handful, and while initially, I was very disappointed in their treatment of Hazel (they treated her as if she was ten and not a grown woman), I know they cared about her. However, things turn around when Natalie (the sister) has her own issues that need to be resolved.

If you are in the mood for a light, fun romance filled with adorable dogs, read this book!

We give it 5 paws up!

 

 

 

 

About the Author

Jaci Burton is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Boots and Bouquets series, the Brotherhood by Fire series, the Hope series, and the Play-by-Play novels.

 

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * Pinterest

 

 

 

 

 

Synopsis

 

Love at first sight. It’s every girl’s dream. But Tara Simpkins is finding out it’s not as easy as it seems. Is this truly the man God sent to be her husband, or is she just desperate to escape her loneliness? The recent loss of both parents has left her reeling, and close friends don’t think she’s in any position to make major life decisions. She and her new-found love are convinced they can live happily ever after in the home of their dreams. His family thinks he’s moving way too fast and might disappoint the kind-hearted woman he’s fallen head over heels for. And then there’s Leah. Leah is supposed to be part of his past, but what if she decides she’s his future? Tara’s match made in Heaven may be over before it truly begins.

 

 

Amazon

 

 

Excerpt

 

Tara Simpkins nibbled her balled fist, hoping to turn a rout into a win. Andy had spent three days installing her roof. He’d come into her life last Friday and was the perfect man. But unless she developed a way to keep him close, his exit would be speedier than his entrance had been.

The handsome roofer had captured her attention his first day on the job. He had even appeared mesmerized by Tara. That had never happened before. Men ran from her, not to her. She couldn’t tell what prompted his interest in her, yet he continued to hang around. She loved the chase but was unsure how to get herself caught. And that dilemma wouldn’t get resolved soon.

Andy seemed like her dream man. He was adept at keeping a conversation going, even though she wasn’t. Plus, he’d seemed curious about his customer in a non-threatening way. He resembled an old friend. The charisma he oozed added to his appeal.

Andy engaged her in conversation despite her ignoring his charm. Thoroughly smitten, she downplayed his attention. Because of that, he seemed to slow the hunt. But he still knocked on her door each evening after the work ended.

Tara had come to expect those knocks. How would she survive once they stopped?

 

 

Review

 

Of all of the books I have read by this author thus far, this is my least favorite. Maybe because I cringed throughout at Luke’s pushiness and Tara’s introverted nature. This did not seem like a love match, and not especially how quickly it happened. I was right to cringe at different scenes, and if Tara had been my friend, I would have been inserting myself into her life more to tell her to slow down. There is no reason to rush any relationship. I know there are those out there who will say that love at first sight can happen, but there were too many red flags, in my opinion.

However, this story is not without its merit in addressing heartache from the death of parents, faith in yourself, and finding love in whatever form it appears. I think it reminds us that we need to have faith in ourselves and even a higher power. There are lessons to be learned from everything in life; we just have to look for that information each day.

Outside of the main characters, there is a myriad of supporting characters that add depth to the story. The characters vary in personality, and there were some that I wasn’t fond of, but all of the characters blended into the story seamlessly. I enjoyed the various relationships between these characters and what they brought to the story.

Overall, the story (and this series) is about hope, and there is hope in this story. It is also about faith, whether that is internal or external. We give this book 3 1/2 paws.

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

E. C. Jackson began her writing career with the full-length play Pajama Party. Thirty-one years later, she adapted the play into Pajama Party: The Story, a companion book to the second book in the five-book standalone Hope series.

Jackson’s favorite pastime is reading fiction. She enjoys taking the journey along with the characters in the books. That also led to her unorthodox approach to story writing. Her vision for each book she writes is to immerse readers into the storyline so they become connected with each character.

“The Write Way: A Real Slice of Life” is the slogan on her Facebook author page. She feels that if every person reading her books feels connected to the characters, her job is done.

 

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synopsis

 

It was a match made in heaven. Or so everyone thought. Sadie Mae Cummings is all set to marry her childhood sweetheart, Kyle, when she is assigned to tutor Lincoln, the new college football running back. This sophomore phenomenon has all the girls on campus knocking on his door. But Sadie isn’t interested in his advances.

Lincoln’s overblown ego doesn’t take well to being shunned, and he resolves to make Sadie his own. He pursues her relentlessly, until finally Kyle finds himself shut out of Sadie’s life, with their shared future crumbling around him.

After two years, Sadie’s relationship with Lincoln ends, and she is left having to put the pieces of her life back together. She desires nothing more than to recapture her relationship with Kyle. He has stayed true to the dreams they had planned together, living the vision even without Sadie by his side.

When she moves back to her hometown, she labors to rekindle their love. But things have changed, and Kyle has moved on. Sadie quickly discovers how hard it is to rebuild burned bridges.

Follow Sadie’s story as she fights for a chance to restore broken dreams. Will love endure?

 

This inspirational romance by E. C. Jackson is book two of the Hope series and is a standalone book.

 

 

Amazon

 

 

Excerpt

 

Restless, twenty-one-year-old Sadie Cummings wiped down the counter space in her small kitchen nook. It was eleven o’clock. Five minutes had passed since the last time she’d checked. Sighing, she fretted about her boyfriend’s visit that morning.

“Why does he agree to come over, then not show up?”

In no time, morning had slipped into early afternoon. The breakfast she’d hoped would receive raves from Lincoln congealed on the stovetop. So much for using her cooking skills to entice him. With several swift movements, she scraped the masterpiece into the garbage disposal, fighting to control the uneasiness she couldn’t dismiss.

She was an expert at fooling herself and others, but today her mind refused to be pacified. One could only pretend for so long before the bottom dropped out completely. Truth had a bad habit of intruding into fairy tales. Especially when the make-believe stories were about real-life events.

The ringing cell phone grabbed Sadie’s attention. That her mother was on the other end was a forgone conclusion. Except for an occasional chat with her younger sister and older brother, the cell phone never rang. These days only her mother contacted Sadie on a regular basis. She peeked at the caller ID.

A moment before the call transferred to voicemail, Sadie snatched up the cell phone, held it against her chest, then gave a cheery greeting. Minutes later, she sauntered through the studio apartment thinking up reasonable excuses to end the call early. Jeanette Cummings expected a good deal more than her middle child was able to give.

Still stumped about finding an excuse to satisfy her mother, Sadie walked around in circles.

“Mother, I’m not trying to hurry you off the phone. I recognize your concern for the Franklins. Our families have been friends for years. It’s just . . . look . . . it’s . . . mother, I don’t have time to talk now.”

Sadie picked up twine from the counter and wove it between her fingers. Pulling it too tight, she winced, then unwound it from around her fingers and wrapped it around her thumb.

“I made plans for the day.”

Lincoln could arrive any moment. Somehow, she had to quickly end this conversation without hurting the only person who regularly called. Friendships were difficult to maintain these days. And her brother and sister only gave duty calls, then ended the conversation in a snap.

Jeanette sighed loudly. “I would offer to call back at a better time, but there isn’t one, is there, Sadie?”

“Mom . . .”

Sadie slowly shook her head. Guilt surfaced each time she talked to her mother. Raised in an orphanage, her mother wasn’t a clingy parent. She believed loneliness caused people to accept unhealthy conditions that a person who felt treasured might avoid.

“Of course, you’re removed from the lives of the families in Shiatown,” said Jeanette.

Blowing breath through her lips, Sadie laid her head on the cabinet with more force than intended. Wincing in pain, she rubbed the sore spot. The lull in the conversation helped gather her thoughts as her fingers massaged the painful area on her forehead. She parted her lips, then she shut them in hopes that her mother would continue speaking.

After a long pause, Jeanette spoke with a harsher tone than any she’d ever used with her daughter. “Listen to me. The Franklin family supported us through your father’s illness and death. We are burying Pastor Franklin this afternoon. His wife deserves a phone call from you.”

She paused before continuing. “Don’t forget, Sarah treated you like a daughter. You and Pastor Franklin shared the same birthday. September twelfth is four days away. My friend is burying her husband four days before his fifty-eighth birthday. And . . . what about Kyle? He lost his father and inherited a ton of responsibility on top of it. Honey, be the friend that I know you are. Time is slipping away. The funeral starts in two hours.”

Sadie stretched her neck from side to side, hanging her head in despair. Lately, her mother had begun to accept her decisions without fussing. However, today she seemed determined for Sadie to send well wishes to a man she’d rather forget. Feeling faint, she squeezed her eyelids together, but all she could see was Kyle’s sad gaze begging, pleading with her to choose him over the man Sadie picked.

Instantly, anger rose as Sadie justified that choice. She couldn’t back down now. There was too much lost ground and no way to regain her footing. The future she’d hoped for was gone. Somehow the leftovers had to be salvaged into a win or, at least, a tolerable solution.

Eyes darting around the room, she braced against the wall. “Friend? Kyle and I didn’t break up as friends. He acted like a judgmental pig; his last remarks were cruel.”

Sadie fumed. With one look Kyle had made her feel like trash. Less than the muck beneath his shoes. Disposable at best, and at worse . . .

 

 

Review

 

I really delved into this book, and the topics were relevant to what we might see in today’s world.

Sadie fell under the spell of a football player in college that she was tutoring. However, he was not one of the good guys; he was very controlling and took her away from her family and support system. She was one of those women we hear about but may not know. I felt for her and being unable to break free sooner than she does. Thankfully, she has a strong family support system that welcomes her back into the fold. However, will her childhood sweetheart forgive her for her indiscretions, or will he continue to hold her at arm’s length?

The story is filled with honesty, mistakes made, and forgiveness given by many. Sadie has a lot to contend with and has to learn how to win back Kyle but on his terms. I appreciated that she realized what she had lost and wanted to get it back, but it took her a bit to realize that you have to approach situations with care.

There is a great supporting cast of characters, and I really liked Cindy and Roland. I don’t know if they get their own book or not, but if they don’t, they should!

I like that the author didn’t shy away from this topic and interspersed faith and religion at just the right moment so the book did not feel preachy.

I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

We give this book 4 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

E. C. Jackson began her writing career with the full-length play Pajama Party. Thirty-one years later, she adapted the play into Pajama Party: The Story, a companion book to the second book in the five-book standalone Hope series.

Jackson’s favorite pastime is reading fiction. She enjoys taking the journey along with the characters in the books. That also led to her unorthodox approach to story writing. Her vision for each book she writes is to immerse readers into the storyline so they become connected with each character.

“The Write Way: A Real Slice of Life” is the slogan on her Facebook author page. She feels that if every person reading her books feels connected to the characters, her job is done.

 

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Twenty-one-year-old Neka is a bit of an introvert, she also happens to be stunningly beautiful. When she discovers her friend James is about to be dumped, she sees the perfect opportunity to escape from her quiet life. Can she summon the courage to leave it all behind?

James Copley comes from a ruthless family. It’s rubbed off. Years ago, he disengaged from his brother’s smear campaign, but now his father has offered him an ultimatum, “Get married or lose your seat at the table.” Plotting to stamp his design on the family business, he proposes to a woman, even though he doesn’t love her. But his carefully laid plans start to unravel when she leaves him on the day she’s due to meet his family. Could years of planning his comeback vanish with her departure?

A possible solution comes in an unexpected form: Neka. She’s not only a friend, but the daughter of his benefactor. And she’s right there, offering to support him. But will her support stretch to marriage? He attempts to win her over to his plan but collides with her powerful father who wants to leverage the situation for his own gain.

In their fight for survival and love, they are forced to face some uncomfortable truths. Can they overcome thwarted dreams and missed chances to find true love, or does forcing destiny’s hand only lead to misery?

 

 

 

Amazon

 

 

Excerpt

 

Nikhol Lacey stepped into the muted glow from the wall sconce above the door, grabbed her luggage from the porch, and hurried down the stairs. The path lights cast a shining arc across the yard. Pine scented the air, and fresh-cut grass clung to her sandals.

She sidestepped debris along the footpath to avoid snapping any twigs. To anyone looking, the maneuverings would have resembled a child’s game of hopscotch. It seemed like ages had passed, but at last she reached her destination. Lips curving into a fleeting smile, she placed her cases at the cab driver’s feet.

After shaking her hand, he lifted the bags. His raspy voice broke the silence. “Good morning . . .”

“Call me Neka.”

She scooted into the car and eased the door shut behind her. But she froze in place when the noisy driver stomped every twig she had missed and slammed the trunk. Her gaze swept over the second-floor windows. The house remained dark inside.

Good. No signs of movement.

Neka lay back on the cushion but bolted upright when the driver sped away, crunching loose twigs scattered across the road.

She brushed her fingers over her neck and chest and then clung to the front of her T-shirt. Familiar landmarks silhouetted against the dusky morning. She sighed, touching the window as her home faded into the receding darkness.

Regret surfaced. Would her family understand her leaving home without notice? Massaging her right earlobe, she laid her head against the seat.

James needed her. She was the only person able to help him. Finally, someone she cared about required assistance that only she could provide. Tears blurred her vision at the admission that she often felt unneeded. Self-revelation came at a price. Closing her eyes, Neka laid her face into the palms of her hand.

She was committed. It was too late to turn back now.

Lord, help me. 

 

 

 

Review

 

This novel depicts the faith of many characters, but also their strong-willed personalities.

Neka is a kind, gentle soul who has loved James since she was 17. While he was kind to her during the four years until now, she wasn’t someone that I think he considered seriously for a long-term relationship until his father threw an ultimatum in his path, and his arranged fiancee dumped him. While they might know each other, they really don’t know each other. That changes over the course of the book as they deal with their respective families. Neka is a somewhat naive twenty-one year old, but her parents are also a bit overprotective. I suppose I can’t blame them, but some of their words to her seemed inappropriate. She is twenty-one, not a child. James’ father is no picnic either. Why would he force one of his children to marry just to stay in the company? Seems crazy to me.

Despite the family interference, James and Neka set down a path for life together. It takes some real conversations to understand each other’s beliefs and goals for life. It isn’t all about business, but there is a foundation for so much more waiting to be discovered. I believe James also helps to bring Neka out of her shell and make her more confident with her beauty and intelligence. Neka also shows unwavering faith in James and his goals for life and his business.

I felt like the characters had some depth and strong faith. There are some times when the conversations feel forced, but not too often. It also felt like we should know the characters and the families better than we do as if this is a book further in a series.

This was still a very enjoyable book, and we give it 4 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

E. C. Jackson began her writing career with the full-length play Pajama Party. Thirty-one years later, she adapted the play into Pajama Party: The Story, a companion book to the second book in the five-book standalone Hope series.

Jackson’s favorite pastime is reading fiction. She enjoys taking the journey along with the characters in the books. That also led to her unorthodox approach to story writing. Her vision for each book she writes is to immerse readers into the storyline so they become connected with each character.

“The Write Way: A Real Slice of Life” is the slogan on her Facebook author page. She feels that if every person reading her books feels connected to the characters, her job is done.

 

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synopsis

 

The desert town of Rattlesnake isn’t a destination. It’s a last resort. Seventeen-year-old Jonah Guthrie’s aunt sold their home in New England and fled to this place to escape the humiliation of his dad’s indictment for embezzlement and subsequent disappearance.

While their late uncle left them a house and a silver mine, the house is in shambles and the mine is defunct. They’re almost out of money, so they have no choice but to stay in Rattlesnake. Then, Jonah discovers they’ve inherited something else. Her name is Catherine, and she’s been dead for over a hundred years. Now, she needs his help.

 

 

Amazon * Smashwords * Kobo * B&N

 

 

Excerpt

 

For a moment, the sun balanced on the tip of the tallest peak, then slipped behind the mountains, turning them black against the sky. They were out of options all except for going back to Old Cemetery Road and dealing with the property. From somewhere far out in the desert came the loneliest sound Jonah had ever heard. That high-pitched yowl caught him at the center of his stomach. Suddenly, he felt eyes on him from every direction, and the shadows grew teeth.

 

 

Review

 

This story will appeal to those who enjoy time travel and paranormal books.

Jonah and Allie, along with their Aunt Margaret, move from New Hampshire to Rattlesnake, Nevada. This is what some might classify as a dying town. I don’t remember the population, but around 500 sounds right. So you can imagine what sort of folks live here and what environment these newcomers might face. There is a bully that runs the town, with his son a bully at the high school. The townfolks are very closed-minded and do not like outsiders at all, save a few.

I enjoyed watching the story unfold, from learning to navigate a new high school to trying to figure out what this ghost needs help with. Both kids are dealing with more than they should have in their lives, not only with the move but with trying to come to terms with the allegations against their father. Margaret is trying to support their little family, but it is hard to gain acceptance from the local residents, which in turn makes it hard for her to find a job.

Jonah is a bit of a wild card. He isn’t afraid to go after what he wants or stand up to the local bully, Snake. He can also see a ghost that needs his help in finding something, but she doesn’t know what. It takes an unusual turn of events for Jonah to figure out what she needs help with and then try to assist 100 years in the future.

This story is fraught with emotions, from loneliness to fear to desperation. There is even a little romance in the story. It depicts what people might encounter if in a similar situation. There is a silver lining at the end. It will appeal to a wide variety of readers, not just those who like young adult or paranormal aspects in their novels.

We give this book 4 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

Until about a year ago, my writing was all about what was real and current in the world. I’ve written about cutting (Sliding on the Edge, 2009), death of a parent (The Princess of Las Pulgas, 2010), illiteracy (Double Negative, 2014–voted as one of the top ten novels for YA), homophobia (Sudden Secrets, 2014), injustice (Not Guilty, 2019, and paraplegia (Shattered, 2021–finalist in the Indie Book Awards). Then suddenly…Rattlesnake, my first other-worldly YA.

It was probably a reaction to what was happening in my personal life as well as the world around me during the Covid shutdown, but I needed escape, and I thought others did as well, so I gave this story my best shot.

When I’m not writing, I’m hiking, traveling, or practicing yoga. I love to cook, and I love to eat. I love to talk with friends, and while I’m not a snob about it, I appreciate good wine—all of these seem to pair well of an evening.

I live on the edge of a forest and don’t hate cities, but I can only take them in short stays before I itch to return to where there are a lot of trees or an ocean.

 

Website * Substack * Goodreads * Facebook * Instagram

 

 

 

 

Malice, Matrimony, and Murder: A Limited-Edition Collection of 25 Wedding Cozy Mystery and Crime Fiction Stories
Cozy Mystery
Marla Bradeen (November 13, 2023)
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 478 pages

 

Synopsis

 

The bride wore an orange jumpsuit…

Everyone loves a good wedding–and a good mystery. Combine the two and what do you get? Malice, Matrimony, and Murder!

Over two dozen authors have teamed up to offer you this wedding-themed collection of brand-new cozy mystery and cozy crime fiction stories that will keep you wondering whodunit and what’s next from the first page to the last. Between bad bridesmaids, conniving caterers, greedy guests, ill-mannered in-laws, savvy sleuths, and vengeful villains, this anthology has it all! All of the stories are clean and fun, with a general feel-good tone. If you read to be entertained, surprised, and uplifted, then this collection is for you!

Plus, the anthology as a whole contains an overarching wedding whodunit woven throughout. As you’re reading, collect the clues, identify whodunit, and access a special ebook filled with bonuses and extras. Inside you’ll find recipes, character interviews, bonus stories, and more!

If you’re drawn to shorter mysteries that are light on gore and language, and high on humor, entertainment, and happy endings, then you don’t want to miss out on Malice, Matrimony, and Murder. But this collection is only available for a limited-time, so grab it now before it’s gone forever!

 

 

Our stories:

– “The Groom’s Club” by Joslyn Chase.
– “A Wedding Planner’s Nightmare: A Persimmon Worthing Mystery” by Charlotte Morganti.
– “Cinderella at Midnight” by P.M. Raymond.
– “Ring Robbery: A Cozy Cat Caper Mystery Short” by Paige Sleuth.
– “What’s a Little Murder Between Friends” by Teresa Inge.
– “Icing on the Cake” by Sally Milliken.
– “Love and Death in Madison, Georgia” by Rebecca Olmstead.
– “Second Chances Are…Murder: A Vermont Radio Mystery” by Nikki Knight.
– “Wedding Vows & Vipers” by Shari Held.
– “The Bride Wore Death” by Barbara Howard.
– “Chill: A Naomi Sinclair Short Story” by Ashley-Ruth M. Bernier.
– “A Bit of a Do” by KD Sherrinford.
– “Goes Around” by Stephen D. Rogers.
– “Jilted” by Elaine Togneri.
– “Sabotage and a Murder Mystery” by Lynn Hesse.
– “Til Death Do Us Part” by Margaret S. Hamilton.
– “A Wedding Most Bitter: A Lara’s Detective Agency Series” by Stella Oni.
– “Better Late Than Murdered” by Robert Petyo.
– “Charm City Wedding” by Pamela Kyel.
– “The Other Wedding Crasher” by Karen McCullough.
– “Marriage, Neighbors and Best Friends: A Wally and Ollie Series” by Wil A. Emerson.
– “The Wedding Dress in the Middle of the Road” by Jack Bates.
– “Death, the Unwanted Wedding Guest” by J. Aquino.
– “We Haven’t Had Cake” by Sharyn Kolberg.
– “To Have and To Scold” by Becky Clark.

 

 

 

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Apple Books * Kobo

 

Smashwords * Books2Read Universal Link

 

 

Review

 

These have been such fun stories to read. Some have some surprise twists at the end, but all mysteries are resolved in these short stories. I have even discovered a few authors that I want to look for their books to add to my never-ending TBR.

When I first started reading this book, my e-reader jumped to near the end of the book, and I came across a weird statement that didn’t fit with the story. Once I realized what happened, I started back at the beginning and realized there is a mystery for the reader to solve, and most of the authors have clues in their stories. Some flow naturally with the story, and others stand out. I started highlighting these clues so that when I finish all of the stories, I can piece together the clues and try to solve the mystery. I will have my work cut out for me!

This anthology is excellent when you just have a little time to read. You can read a story (or two) while waiting in line, at the doctor’s office, or any time when you have just a few minutes.

I also enjoyed all of the stories centering around a wedding or a similar situation.

We give this book 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

Author Websites

 

Joslyn Chase * Charlotte Morganti * P.M. Raymond * Paige Sleuth

 

Teresa Inge * Sally Milliken * Rebecca Olmstead * Nikki Knight

 

Shari Held * Barbara Howard * Ashley-Ruth M. Bernier * KD Sherrinford

 

Stephen D. Rogers * Elaine Togneri * Lynn Hesse * Margaret S. Hamilton

 

Stella Oni * Pamela Kyel * Karen McCullough

 

Wil A. Emerson * Becky Clark

 

Publisher Website * Publisher Facebook * Publisher Twitter

 

 

 

 

Giveaway

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

 

 

 

 

THE EDGE OF TOO LATE

 

Harbor Pointe Series, #5

 

by

 

Jan Sikes

 

 

Ghost Suspense / Contemporary Short Stories / Action & Adventure Romance

Publisher: RiJan Publishing

Date of Publication: November 28, 2023

Number of Pages: 126pages

 

Scroll down for Giveaway!

 

 

 

 

Brandon Miller has his dream job, financial security, and he’s madly in love. Only one thing is missing—a commitment.

Angela Cooper’s ex-husband left her with deep scars, souring her on the concept of marriage. She’s not interested in a do-over. Not with Brandon or anyone. Her heart is locked securely away behind a thick wall.

With a ring in his pocket and hope in his heart, Brandon arranges a romantic getaway to the historic Harbor Pointe Inn, where he plans to pop the question.

Before they reach the inn, Angela’s got her camera in hand and ghosts on her mind. But they arrive to find a much more tangible horror.

Accident or foul play?

Someone is up to no good, and Angela is the next target. When suspects can be worldly or otherworldly, danger and secrets lurk everywhere.

Poised at the perilous edge of too late, Angela and Brandon face the fight of their lives.

 

 

 

 

Amazon

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Looking for a spooky novella? This might be the answer to what you are seeking.

Brandon and Angela are in a somewhat serious relationship, and he decides to take her on a romantic weekend, where he plans to propose. This could go one of two ways, considering she is still gun-shy when it comes to relationships, thanks to her previous one. But that doesn’t deter Brandon in the least. He realizes what a gem she is and will not be swayed to wait! However, he does not expect the outcome of this weekend. But then, I don’t think anyone would!

Angela is an empath and has a passion for photography. She is able to see several ghosts around the inn where they are staying. Some believe her, and some do not. But that doesn’t deter her from her beliefs. She also hopes to capture a ghostly orb on film.

This is set before a time of cell phones and digital cameras. I really enjoy books like this because the characters can’t rely on technology to do what is needed.

While this may be a short story, I found myself engrossed in the tale, cringing at several conflicts and hoping that all would work out in the end. Luckily, it does! There are some somewhat violent parts, but we are left to imagine the scenes on our own, and the minute details are not shared. Considering how vivid my imagination can be, it isn’t hard for me to picture it in my mind.

There is one character I do not like from the initial introduction, and for good reason. Let’s just say he is not a nice guy.

While this is part of a series, each book stands on its own, and the inn is what ties the books together.

This book does not read like a short story, so I was surprised when I finished it so quickly. I wanted to know more about Brandon and Angela and where their lives would take them after this weekend at the Harbor Pointe Inn. We give this book 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jan Sikes writes compelling and creative stories from the heart.

She openly admits that she never set out in life to be an author. But she had a story to tell. Not just any story, but a true story that rivals any fiction creation. She brought the entertaining true story to life through fictitious characters in an intricately woven tale encompassing four books, accompanying music CDs, and a book of poetry and art.

And now, this author can’t find a way to put down the pen. She continues to write fiction and has published numerous award-winning short stories and novels.

Jan is an active blogger, an avid fan of Texas music, and a grandmother of five. She resides in North Texas.

 

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12/05/23	Jennifer Silverwood	Review
12/05/23	Hall Ways Blog	Excerpt
12/06/23	Boys’ Mom Reads	Review
12/06/23	LSBBT Blog	BONUS Stop
12/07/23	JennCaffeinated	Review
12/08/23	Librariel Book Adventures	Review
12/08/23	Chapter Break Book Blog	Character Interview
12/09/23	StoreyBook Reviews	Review
12/10/23	The Clueless Gent	Review
12/11/23	Bibliotica	Review
12/12/23	Rox Burkey Blog	Review
12/12/23	Forgotten Winds	Author Interview
12/13/23	It’s Not All Gravy	Review
12/14/23	The Plain-Spoken Pen	Review

 

 

 

 

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Synopsis

 

One choice can change everything.

Now that Caitlyn has changed the past, she must face the consequences in her present. But so much of her life has been impacted, adjusting seems impossible.

If she could, she’d spend all her time in the 1980’s with Toby. Wrapped in his arms or listening to him play the guitar. But the universe keeps dragging her back to 2022.

How do you connect with family members who don’t share the same memories? How do you move forward when your entire history has been rewritten? These are the questions Caitlyn must answer if she is to forge a new future for herself.

A future without Toby. It’s the last thing she wants, but what choice does she have?

Aftermath is the second book in The Ripple Effect series and the final book told from Caitlyn’s perspective.

 

 

Amazon

 

Read for Free via Kindle Unlimited

 

 

Review

 

This is the follow-up book to The Ripple Effect, which I reviewed a few months ago. This follow-up book wraps everything up nicely, which is good because I remember being frustrated at the end of the first book with the cliffhanger!

Caitlyn is still traveling back to 1984, where she met the love of her life, Toby. She never knows how long it will take to travel back in time, how long she is gone, or when she will be there next. Sometimes it is a day, sometimes it is weeks. But each time she goes back, she manages to make ripples in the timeline, and everything changes when she returns to 2022. You would think that she would have learned by now to lay low, but no such luck.

There are so many things I would like to tell you about this book, but I can’t because it would spoil the story. Let’s just say it is filled with romance, friendship, and truth. I really like all of the characters, and there are some positives to Caitlyn’s journey to the past and the people she meets since it is possible she will meet them in the present.

You must read the first book to truly understand and appreciate everything that happens in this book. I could see potential future stories in this series, but I believe it will only be the two books. Maybe the author will surprise us and create another story that continues this time traveling disorder.

We give this book 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

Cally Jackson grew up in the small country town of Gatton. After deciding at 17 that a Hollywood acting career was sadly out of reach, Cally turned to a career in professional communication with fictional writing as her labour of love.

Cally’s passion for fictional writing first emerged in grade two when she got in trouble for penning her own tale instead of copying directly from a story book as she was supposed to be doing – it was a handwriting exercise, after all.

Cally’s first novel, The Big Smoke, was published in 2012. A decade and two children later, Cally has released her second novel, The Ripple Effect.

 

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MAGNOLIA BLUFF

 

CRIME CHRONICLES

 

Seasons 1 & 2

 

by

 

The Underground Authors

 

 

Scroll down for a giveaway!

 

 

 

 

 

Each stand-alone book in this multi-author crime novel series is set in the fictitious, beautiful little Texas Hill Country town of Magnolia Bluff. Each author writes in their preferred sub-genre to allow readers to experience humor, dark dilemmas, suspense, romance, thrills, and spills — told through good storytelling that will keep readers awake past their bedtime, trying to find out whodunit.

Season three of The Magnolia Bluff Crime Chronicles begins in January 2024. Stay tuned.

 

Purchase the Books

 

 

 

 

JJ and Jo find the ideal spot to escape their busy work lives—Magnolia Bluff offers Flower Bed & Breakfast, a quaint country destination within the beautiful Texas Hill Country.

They pull up to the picturesque building only to discover a crowd of citizens anxiously awaiting a special podcast created by a group of local women to start. Flower B&B is the sponsor of today’s show in this multi-day series. The couple works through the human log jam. As they check in, they learn that a cyber-attack may prevent the show from airing.

JJ, a technology guru, is convinced by Jo to help the group meet their broadcast promise. While he’s working on the issue, Jo spots a girl in the crowd with fear in her eyes who flashes the international help sign. The teenager vanishes into the throng. Fearful young people signaling for help strikes too close to home for Jo.

Their romantic vacation becomes a journey from one crisis to the next as these vacationers help the evangelizing ladies even as risks multiply. Threats expand to include all the podcasters, the show location owners, and suspected missing teens.

 

 

 

Amazon

 

Read for Free via Kindle Unlimited

 

 

 

 

 

Meet JJ and Jo, a Brazilian super couple that has found their way to Magnolia Bluff. It is a good thing, too, because they have stumbled onto a mystery that leads to uncovering a human trafficker.

This series is unique. There are multiple authors writing this series, and they all use the town and characters. Each book adds an additional character and brings in new aspects of this tiny hamlet. The main location of this book is the Flower B&B, where JJ and Jo had planned to relax and unwind from their stressful lives, but hackers trying to bring down a local podcast called for JJ’s expertise as a cybersecurity specialist. Jo may be a supermodel, but she has experience as someone who was caught up in a trafficking situation, and not in a good way. However, that allows her to connect with the young women they rescue and create a bond with them.

I enjoyed the humor, tension from the neighbor (aka the trafficker), and watching JJ and Jo fall deeper in love with each other. The interactions with the townspeople are what I love to see in a small town. Caring, nosy, and welcoming to those who want to be a part of the community.

While there isn’t a murder to solve, there is danger that abounds thanks to these criminals in town. I really enjoyed watching the story unfold and good winning over evil.

We give the book 4 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JJ and Jo learn privacy doesn’t exist for them. They return to Magnolia Bluff to check on their friends and recapture the small-town anonymity.  In Magnolia Bluff, no one suspects their fame.

They discount the status as urban legends in favor of acceptance and a quiet, peaceful life. After all, a supermodel needs time and space to recharge between jobs. A geek wants time to adore his wife.

• Does Magnolia Bluff hold the answers to their prayers?
• Will their desires get clouded by a hidden secret?

Past, present, and future collide in a perfect storm no one expected. JJ and Jo take action to uncover the truth. Chief Tommy Jager likes them, but he feels they’re a lightning rod for trouble and disruption.

Who will live or die to prevent the truth from being exposed? The answers may be in the graveyard with the fresh flowers on the gravestone.

 

 

 

Amazon

 

 

 

 

 

I picked up this book to read not long after I finished The Flower Enigma. This is a continuation of JJ and Jo’s life and foray into Magnolia Bluff, Texas. This is a year or so later, and JJ and Jo are celebrating their one year anniversary. They decided to revisit Magnolia Bluff and Flower B&B. A lot has happened in this town, and the young women they rescued in the previous book are now living happier lives.

JJ and Jo have decided they want to purchase a vacation home in this little town. I can’t blame them; I want to live in this town too. However, purchasing the property can be a little bit tricky. Plus, there are signs of tampering. Why? What secrets does this property hold?

I feel bad that JJ and Jo never get to have a relaxing vacation when they visit Magnolia Bluff. They are thrust into helping to solve crimes. They do have some great sleuthing skills and are able to uncover information to assist the police in solving a few mysteries. Jo turns out to have a wicked backhand when handling a skillet. There are several scenes that made me laugh tied to that skillet.

While I had my suspicions about a character or two, I wasn’t sure why. There was just something off. Once all was revealed, it made a lot of sense.

I enjoyed all of the descriptions of the town and surrounding area. The descriptions were on point, and I could envision the scene in my mind. If it doesn’t make you want to travel to the Hill Country, I don’t know what will.

This story is full of rich characters, humor, and suspense. A nice addition to the Magnolia Bluff Chronicles series.

We give this book 4 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Charles Breakfield is a 25+ year technology expert in security, networking, voice, and anything digital. He enjoys writing, studying World War II history, travel, and cultural exchanges. He also enjoys wine tastings, wine-making, Harley riding, cooking extravaganzas, and woodworking.

Rox Burkey is a 25+ year applied technology professional who excels at optimizing technology and business investments for customers worldwide with a focus on optimized customer experiences. She writes white papers and documents with a marked preference for fiction.

Together they create award-winning stories that resonate with males and females, young and experienced adults, and bring a fresh new view to technology possibilities today.

 

 

Series Social Media

 

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Rox Burkey Social Media

 

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THREE WINNERS:

 

1^st: $25 Amazon gift card

 

2^nd & 3^rd: eBook bundles of first 18 books in the series

 

(US only; ends midnight, CST, 12/8/23)

 

 

 

 

 

Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway
 

 

 

Visit the Lone Star Literary Life Tour Page

 

For direct links to each post on this tour, updated daily,

 

or visit the blogs directly:

 

11/27/23	Boys’ Mom Reads	10 Million Ways to Die	Review
11/27/23	Reading by Moonlight	Death Wears a Crimson Hat	Review
11/27/23	Hall Ways	Series Spotlight
11/28/23	The Plain-Spoken Pen	Death in the Absence of Rain	Review
11/28/23	StoreyBook Reviews	Eulogy in Black and White	Review
11/28/23	LSBBT Blog	Series Spotlight
11/29/23	Forgotten Winds	The Great Peanut Butter Conspiracy	Review
11/29/23	Carpe Diem Chronicles	Only the Good Die Young	Spotlight
11/29/23	It’s Not All Gravy	When Bad Things Happen to Good Mice	Review
11/30/23	Rox Burkey Blog	You Won’t Know How. . .or When	Review
12/01/23	StoreyBook Reviews	The Flower Enigma	Review
12/01/23	Writing and Music	The Killer Enigma	Review
12/02/23	Reading by Moonlight	Men Lying Dead in a Field	Spotlight
12/02/23	The Clueless Gent	The Shine from a Girl in the Lake	Review
12/03/23	Jennie Reads	The Dewey Decimal Dilemma	Review
12/03/23	Forgotten Winds	The Dog Gone Diamond Dilemma	Review
12/04/23	Chapter Break Blog	Justice	Spotlight
12/04/23	The Plain-Spoken Pen	Bye Baby Bye	Review
12/05/23	Shelf Life Blog	Texas Summers are Murder	Sneak Peek
12/05/23	The Book’s Delight	Born and Bred Texan	Review
12/06/23	It’s Not All Gravy	Who Killed Lilly Paine?	Review
12/07/23	Hall Ways	Second Chances	Review
12/08/23	The Page Unbound	A Chance of a Ghost	Sneak Peek

 

 

 

 

blog tour services provided by

 

 

 

MAGNOLIA BLUFF

 

CRIME CHRONICLES

 

Seasons 1 & 2

 

by

 

The Underground Authors

 

 

Scroll down for a giveaway!

 

 

 

 

 

Each stand-alone book in this multi-author crime novel series is set in the fictitious, beautiful little Texas Hill Country town of Magnolia Bluff. Each author writes in their preferred sub-genre to allow readers to experience humor, dark dilemmas, suspense, romance, thrills, and spills — told through good storytelling that will keep readers awake past their bedtime, trying to find out whodunit.

Season three of The Magnolia Bluff Crime Chronicles begins in January 2024. Stay tuned.

 

Purchase the Books

 

 

 

 

Death Stalks a Small Town.

Magnolia Bluff waits.
With apprehension.
With dread.
With terror.
May twenty-third is coming.
Somebody always dies on May twenty-third.
Why?
No one knows.
A killer walks in the shadows.
The killer is ready to strike again.

 

 

 

Amazon

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This mystery is a little different from other books that I have read. The protagonist, Graham Huston, is a man of few words, and it is evident from his writings and his speech. He doesn’t believe in using flowery language to describe anything. He writes in short, concise sentences, yet he gets his message across. Scattershot journalism is how they refer to it in the book. It is almost like reading poetry with short sentences. However, at the same time, the story feels jerky, at least until you get used to the author’s writing style. I have seen some refer to it as bullet prose; they wouldn’t be wrong.

Graham is a man with a troubled past. It takes us some time to learn why he has come to Magnolia Bluff. Once we do learn these facts, we can feel the weight on his shoulders and the burden he has been carrying. He didn’t plan to stay in town, but a job cleaning in the newspaper office led to his investigation into the May Twenty Third killings. Who is killing these people? What is the connection? And, of course, who is doing the killing? The answer will surprise you.

I enjoyed trying to decipher the clues along with Graham. There aren’t many until he stumbles across the final clue to close the case. Once I gleaned enough information, I started to suspect one person. Of course, I was wrong, but for another reason. However, the clues didn’t end there, and while I suspected what that last clue might be, I wasn’t 100% sure it was the right answer.

I found the characters engaging. They were all typical of a small town, but that isn’t a bad thing. Everyone knows everyone else’s business, so watch what you do, or you will end up in the paper!

At the end of the day, there was justice and peace for those who needed it.

I have wanted to read this series for some time. This is the second book in the series, but you don’t need to read them in order, but it might help. I’ll let you know once I work my way through the rest. We give this book 4 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Caleb Pirtle III was the author of more than eighty books. Pirtle was a graduate of The University of Texas in Austin and became the first student at the university to win the National William Randolph Hearst Award for feature writing. Several of his books and his magazine writing have received national and regional awards.

Pirtle was a newspaper reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and served ten years as the travel editor for Southern Living Magazine. He was editorial director for a Dallas custom publisher for more than twenty-five years. Pirtle passed away in August, 2023.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GIVEAWAY!  GIVEAWAY!  GIVEAWAY!

 

THREE WINNERS:

 

1^st: $25 Amazon gift card

 

2^nd & 3^rd: eBook bundles of first 18 books in the series

 

(US only; ends midnight, CST, 12/8/23)

 

 

 

 

 

Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway
 

 

 

Visit the Lone Star Literary Life Tour Page

 

For direct links to each post on this tour, updated daily,

 

or visit the blogs directly:

 

11/27/23	Boys’ Mom Reads	10 Million Ways to Die	Review
11/27/23	Reading by Moonlight	Death Wears a Crimson Hat	Review
11/27/23	Hall Ways	Series Spotlight
11/28/23	The Plain-Spoken Pen	Death in the Absence of Rain	Review
11/28/23	StoreyBook Reviews	Eulogy in Black and White	Review
11/28/23	LSBBT Blog	Series Spotlight
11/29/23	Forgotten Winds	The Great Peanut Butter Conspiracy	Review
11/29/23	Carpe Diem Chronicles	Only the Good Die Young	Spotlight
11/29/23	It’s Not All Gravy	When Bad Things Happen to Good Mice	Review
11/30/23	Rox Burkey Blog	You Won’t Know How. . .or When	Review
12/01/23	StoreyBook Reviews	The Flower Enigma	Review
12/01/23	Writing and Music	The Killer Enigma	Review
12/02/23	Reading by Moonlight	Men Lying Dead in a Field	Spotlight
12/02/23	The Clueless Gent	The Shine from a Girl in the Lake	Review
12/03/23	Jennie Reads	The Dewey Decimal Dilemma	Review
12/03/23	Forgotten Winds	The Dog Gone Diamond Dilemma	Review
12/04/23	Chapter Break Blog	Justice	Spotlight
12/04/23	The Plain-Spoken Pen	Bye Baby Bye	Review
12/05/23	Shelf Life Blog	Texas Summers are Murder	Sneak Peek
12/05/23	The Book’s Delight	Born and Bred Texan	Review
12/06/23	It’s Not All Gravy	Who Killed Lilly Paine?	Review
12/07/23	Hall Ways	Second Chances	Review
12/08/23	The Page Unbound	A Chance of a Ghost	Sneak Peek

 

 

 

 

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