#BookReview ~ Hard As It Gets (A Hard Ink Novel, Book 1) by Laura Kaye #RomanticSuspense #MilitaryRomance #Romance @laurakayeauthor

 

Book Details:

Publisher: ‎ Avon 

Publish Date: November 26, 2013

Mass Market Paperback ‏ : ‎ 368 pages

ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0062267884

ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0062267887

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About the Book:

Tall, dark, and lethal...

Trouble just walked into Nicholas Rixey's tattoo parlor. Becca Merritt is warm, sexy, wholesome--pure temptation to a very jaded Nick. He's left his military life behind to become co-owner of Hard Ink Tattoo, but Becca is his ex-commander's daughter. Loyalty won't let him turn her away. Lust has plenty to do with it too.

With her brother presumed kidnapped, Becca needs Nick. She just wasn't expecting to want him so much. As their investigation turns into all-out war with an organized crime ring, only Nick can protect her. And only Becca can heal the scars no one else sees.

Desire is the easy part. Love is as hard as it gets. Good thing Nick is always up for a challenge...

My Review:

Hard As It Gets is the first book in the Hard Ink series. The series features 5 former army buddies who left the military under less than favorable circumstances. When the daughter of his former commander pops into Hard Ink unexpectedly, Nick is a brick wall. Hard and unmovable, despite the despair in Becca's eyes at the disappearance of her brother. Unwilling to assist, Becca leaves, heartbroken and unsure where to go next. The police aren't getting involved and she's all alone. Until she's not. 

Nick and Becca make a great team as they spend their days together, trying to unravel the mystery behind the disappearance of Charlie. When evidence and events point to one of the largest organized crime ring in the state, Nick knows he needs help. The problem? Will those he calls on be willing to put his radio silence aside to aid him in taking down the crime ring? Well, here's to trying.

I was completely drawn into Hard As It Gets. The story was well-written, the characters delightful, and the setting vivid. Becca and Nick are a perfect pairing. There's a bit of roughness when they first meet, but they continue to be drawn together. Close proximity accounts for some of the attraction, but not all of it as they rush to figure out what happened to Charlie. 

I purchased my review copy at a garage sale.

My Rating:

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#BookReview ~ Cooking Up A Valentine's Proposal by Daisy Flynn #CleanRomance #Romance #HEA

 

Cooking Up A Valentine's Proposal by Daisy Flynn

ASIN: ‎ B0CT78P326
Publication Date: ‎ January 23, 2024
Print Length: ‎ 74 pages

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About the Book:

I just turned forty, my bakery and apartment are in flames, and my best friend is on vacation.

In comes the cavalry.

My best friend’s off-limits brother, Augustine.

A master chef, with his own Gold Star restaurant.

Not only does he give my daughter and I a place to stay,

But he has a dream kitchen I can use until the bakery is remodeled.

And the chance to create his Gold Star restaurant’s private-label signature desserts.

But when I fake a marriage to scare off his gold-digging ex,

Will he see the love behind the lie?

Or will it ruin our chance at love?

I found a true knight in shining armor, and then I lost him.

But I won’t give up.

I’ve got a happily-ever-after recipe to win the challenge, and to heal his broken heart for good.

This is a Clean Romance story with no explicit romance scenes or language, and some references to a belief in God. It’s a stand alone story with its own happily-ever-after ending.

My Review:

Cooking Up A Valentine’s Proposal is a cute romance novella. When Jane’s bakery catches fire, she and her daughter Rita call Jane’s bestie Natalie. Soon-to-be-mom Natalie and her hubby are out of town on a last-chance mini-vacation before their baby arrives. Natalie calls in a favor to her brother, Augustine, who gladly takes in Jane and Rita.

Augustine and Jane aren’t strangers but they don’t really know each other. They are acquaintances through Natalie. He’s used to living alone and she’s used to a small apartment with her daughter. All that changes when Augustine’s house goes from 1 occupant to 3.

There are definitely sparks between Augustine and Jane. Not the explosive, fireworks kind, but a shared interest. They get along well, are able to live in the same space, and both are kind, caring, compassionate people. Their romance just hit the ignite button too quickly.

I try not to judge these types of romance too harshly. When I met my husband, we moved in together after less than two months of knowing each other. I just don’t feel deep emotions bubble up between Augustine and Jane. I wish there was more of a recognizable connection. Nevertheless, Cooking Ua A Valentine’s Proposal is a sweet, clean romance, quick to read, without complicated characters.

I was provided a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

My Review:

#BookReview ~ Lean On Me by Beth Moran

Lean On Me

Beth Moran

From No. 1 bestselling author Beth Moran comes a story about family, friendship and community.

About the Book:  

As Faith tries on her future mother-in-law’s wedding dress in preparation for her own wedding, her tears are not of joy. The hideous frock is nicknamed ‘The Ghost Web’ by Faith’s best friend Marilyn, who can’t understand why Faith would even consider wearing it. But there’s a lot Marilyn doesn’t know about Faith – not the least of which is that Faith is just the latest of the names she has called herself.

Faith and her brother Sam survived a traumatic childhood which included having to change their names to hide from the past, but surviving has left scars. Faith’s generous fiancé Perry doesn’t just promise to be a partner, he offers freedom and security, and enough kindness to keep Faith squashing down any doubts on what ‘being in love’ really means.

It’s not until she meets an extraordinary group of women at the Grace Chapel choir, that things start to become crystal clear. As choir-leader extraordinaire, the indomitable Hester, holds a mirror up to her ragtag group of singers, all with their own burdens and insecurities, and teaches them to see how magnificent they are, so Faith can dare to dream of a future where she and Sam can stop running and she might even be ready to accept the love that she deserves.

Number 1 bestselling author Beth Moran is back with her trademark ingredients of wisdom and warmth, heartbreak and hearts soaring. Perfect for fans of Jill Mansell, Philippa Ashley and Jenny Colgan.

My Review:

Lean On Me is novel packed full of trauma, secrets, addiction, and survival. The novel is also packed full of hope, friendship, and healing. Faith and Sam are running from their horrific past. Their names may have changed but they are still haunted by murder, abuse, and addiction. Fortunately, Faith finds hope for a better life for both of them in her fiancé, Perry, and in her new friends at the Grace Chapel Choir. 

I enjoyed Lean On Me. The author wrote a realistic book with plenty of emotion on both ends of the spectrum. Their is sadness and despair, but also love and hope. The setting and world-building were well-crafted and wonderfully described. The characters were complex and fully developed. 

I was provided a copy of this book.

My Rating:

Purchase Link:

https://amzn.to/48PmnyF

Viisit the Author:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bethmoranauthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethcmoran

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#BookReview ~ The Graveyard Killings by Wes Markin - The Yorkshire Murders, Book 4) ~ #CrimeThriller

The Graveyard Killings

About the Book:

A decades old case....

When the body of a young girl is found exhumed from her grave, DCI Emma Gardner knows there’s more to this grisly find than just misadventure. Penny Maiden was killed in a hit and run accident forty years ago, and her killer was never found…Could someone be trying to right an old wrong?

A DI on the rails...

Determined to bring a dangerous gang of drug dealers to justice, DI Paul Riddick is trying hard to play by the rules. After his previous reckless actions, he knows this is his last chance to stay in the job he loves. But when his private life takes an unexpected turn, Riddick begins to lose control again.

Emma needs Paul to help her with her case, especially when more bodies are found in the same graveyard. But hurt badly by Riddick once before, Emma's not sure she can trust him again.

But as Paul’s behaviour begins to spiral even more, Emma worries she may have left it far too late to save her old friend Riddick from his own destruction...

My Review:

The Graveyard Killings if the fourth book in The Yorkshire Murders. I have not read the previous books but I felt this book worked well as a standalone. There were some things I didn't understand but that's my fault for starting a series in book four and not at book one. I'm not one to penalize an author because I failed to do my research.

Bouncing between 1980 and 2023, The Graveyard Killings intertwines. The body of a young hit-and-run victim is exhumed and placed on a nearby grave. In the grave of the recently exhumed is the body of someone else. CDI Emma Gardner finds that she needs the help of self-destructive DI Paul Riddick. DI Paul Riddick is trying, and failing, to color between the lines, in his attempt to bring down a gang of drug dealers. As Emma and Paul dance around their connection, pieces of the puzzle connecting their cases together become evident. 

This book had me on the edge of my seat. The first flashback to 1980 evoked strong emotions, especially at the very end before switching to 2023. The Graveyard Killings is a suspenseful crime thriller with two seemingly separate cases - a cold case and a drug case - with unexpected ties. There are so many twists, turns, and shocking events. The author did a magnificent job weaving everything together and then systematically unraveling it all in a dramatic and exciting fashion.

I was provided a copy of this book.

My Rating:

Purchase Link:

https://amzn.to/3P5gIgK

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WesMarkinAuthor

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#BookReview ~ Mr. Broody by Piper Rayne ~ #SportsRomance #Hockey

About the Book:

I’ve loved Henry Hensley since I was seven years old. We’ve gone from best friends to lovers to nothing.

To most people, he’s the Chicago Falcons starting right winger and hot single dad, but to me, he’s my first boyfriend, my first kiss, my first love.

Eight years ago, that all changed when our lives took us in two different directions. Our break-up almost broke me, so I kept my distance until our hometown called me back to where our story began.

I promised myself a quick visit to help my family out, and then I’d leave town before he even knew I was back, which should have been easy. He’s way too busy being a professional hockey player and raising his son to ever find out.

Of course, I’m only in town for a week before I run into him, and one thing is clear from our brief encounter—Henry wants to hash out our past, whereas I’d rather forget it.

But my plan really goes up in flames when I take a temporary substitute teaching job, and on day one, his son walks into my classroom. Boom.

My Review:

Mr. Broody is the second book in The Nest series by Piper Rayne. This story features Jade and Henry. They were connected at the hip from the age of seven until after college and Henry was drafted to Minnesota. Jade went her own way, leaving Chicago and only coming back home recently to help her mom and step-dad. The reconnection between Jade and Henry cause a tidal wave of repressed feelings to bubble over for both, but they have different lives now.

Jade and Henry are amazing! And don't get me started on Bodhi! He stole my heart from the very first time he's on the page. This book is so sweet, heartwarming, and emotional. There's steam, but also love. This book is emotionally rich not just between Jade and Henry, but anytime Bodhi graces the pages. Everyone loves him so much and his POV chapters are so cute! 

I loved everything about the story, the characters, the new setting, and the romance. I love how the authors created a story that flows well, pulls you in, and keeps you engaged. The writing style and story took my breath away.

I was provided a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

My Rating:

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Website: www.PiperRayne.com

#BookReview ~ Holiday Hideaway Mary Kay Andrews ~ #HolidayRomance #ChildhoodAcquaintancesToLovers

 

From New York Times bestselling author Mary Kay Andrews comes a charming holiday romance about a newly single thirtysomething whose unauthorized vacation rental turns into a hilarious game of hide-and-seek when the new owner unexpectedly shows up.

ASIN: ‎ B0D3J6GLD9
Publisher: ‎ Amazon Original Stories
Publication date: ‎ October 29, 2024

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About the Book:

Tilly Farriday isn’t feeling very jolly this season. Recently divorced and broke, she’s squatting in one of her rental agency’s properties until her new home is ready. The sprinkles on top of the burnt Christmas cookie that is her life? The new owner shows up early, forcing Tilly to hide in the attic to save her job…and what remains of her dignity.

George Holloway is here to sell his granduncle’s house—and to reconsider whether he and his fiancée are right for each other. Amid home repairs, George notices strange noises and missing food, but as much as he gets his rental agent on the phone, Tilly dodges every invitation to meet. He’s sure that someone’s here with him, and it’s certainly not the Ghost of Christmas Past, Present, or Future.

As Tilly and George circle each other, they both wonder where their lives are headed and if, maybe, meeting each other is just the Christmas miracle they need.

My  Review:

Holiday Hideaway is a cute novella with a winter/Christmas setting. The premise is interesting but almost not believable. A woman loses everything to her ex-husband in court and in order to survive until her new apartment is ready, she jeopardizes her job by staying in one of the rental properties her company manages. The home has been empty for at least a year so Tilly "moves" in temporarily until said homeowner shows up unannounced. Tilly scampers to the attic in hopes that whomever it is will leave so she can go about her squatting life. Except, he doesn't and Tilly finds herself in quite the predicament. 

Fortunately, while story seems a bit farfetched, I understand that this is a work of fiction. I was able to quickly suspend my disbelief and enjoy the story for what it's for and about. Tilly is a great character. She's spontaneous, impulsive, and doesn't think about consequences, otherwise she wouldn't be living in an empty home she doesn't own that just happens to be managed by her place of employment. George  is a great character too. He's there to get the property ready for sale but deep down, his escape from Boston is for a different reason. He just needs a old high school friend who is caring and considerate to pop back into his life in order for him to see a path to a better future than the road he's on currently.

I enjoyed this short holiday read with a light mix of romance. It was a very quick read. The book has some humor and snark, conflict and unhappiness, but is also lighthearted, with a childhood friends/acquaintances to lovers romance woven in between the pages. I like the author's writing style, the quick world-building for both Tilly and George, and the character development. 

While I'm familiar with this author, Holiday Hideaway is the first book of hers that I've read. I'll be grabbing some of her other work in-between other commitments.

I obtained an ecopy of this book through my Amazon Prime membership.

My Rating:

#BookReview ~ Rush at 50 by Daniel Bukszpan ~ @rushtheband #Tribute #ClassicRockBand #ClassicRock

A beautifully produced, photo-packed celebration of the beloved rock trio, Rush at 50 examines the history of the Canadian rockers through the lens of 50 milestone events and an illustrated gatefold timeline. 

Formed in Toronto in 1968, Rush became one of the most popular and best-selling bands in rock history, thanks to their tireless effort and imaginative, ever-evolving music. This richly illustrated and entertainingly written book from Rush expert and music journalist Dan Bukszpan pays tribute to the trio on the 50th anniversary of their debut album by curating and examining 50 of the most significant milestones in their career. 

Bukszpan covers everything down through the decades:

The band’s formation by bassist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson in suburban Toronto and their early gigs and tours opening for the likes of Kiss

Their breakthrough in the United States thanks to a Cleveland DJ

The role of co-founding drummer John Rutsey

Rush’s early Led Zeppelin–influenced efforts and their breakthrough, 2112

The band’s ever-evolving musical style through the 1970s and 1980s

The controversial influence of novelist Ayn Rand on Neil Peart’s lyrics

Geddy Lee’s instantly recognizable vocal style

Recording sessions with various producers in Wales, Quebec, and elsewhere

In examining 50 touchstones, Buszpan presents a unique look at Rush’s career arc from Toronto bar band to international mega-platinum stadium fillers. Every page is illustrated with stunning concert and candid offstage photography, including gig posters, ticket stubs, and more. 

The result is an epic tribute to one of the most influential and admired bands in rock history—in a milestone year.

192 pages, Hardcover

Published October 8, 2024

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/204593964-rush-at-50

My Review:

Rush has always been a favorite classic band of mine. As a GenXr, I grew up with parents who listened to Rush, and other bands now labeled as classic rock. Tom Sawyer has, and will always be, my favorite Rush song. As an avid concert goer with my husband, Rush has been on my bucket list of must-see live bands. Unfortunately, seeing them never happened and now, never will. 

Rush at 50 by Daniel Bukszpan is a wonderful compilation and historical record of the milestones in the career of the band. I loved the photos, the interviews, and background on one the most iconic rock bands of the classic rock era. Perfect for the Rush lover in your life.

Thanks NetGalley.

My Rating: