Category Archives: book reviews

Audiobook Review: ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho ( Inspirational, Spirituality, Folklore Fiction) 5 Stars

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#100BooksChallenge for 2021, this was book one for me. What a book this gem can really take you places literally in your mind, and with your visions of life, if you allow it!It was actually suggested to me while I was on YouTube as a video, I found the audiobook version to listen to for free. God bless whoever put it there! I have heard wonderful things about this book over the years, but never got around to reading it even though it’s a genre I deeply love. It was a wonderful way to spend New years ‘locked down’ by the pandemic.

About the Book:

A global phenomenon, The Alchemist has been read and loved by over 62 million readers, topping bestseller lists in 74 countries worldwide. Now this magical fable is beautifully repackaged in an edition that lovers of Paulo Coelho will want to treasure forever.

Every few decades a book is published that changes the lives of its readers forever. This is such a book – a beautiful parable about learning to listen to your heart, read the omens strewn along life’s path and, above all, follow your dreams.

Santiago, a young shepherd living in the hills of Andalucia, feels that there is more to life than his humble home and his flock. One day he finds the courage to follow his dreams into distant lands, each step galvanised by the knowledge that he is following the right path: his own. The people he meets along the way, the things he sees and the wisdom he learns are life-changing.

With Paulo Coelho’s visionary blend of spirituality, magical realism and folklore, The Alchemist is a story with the power to inspire nations and change people’s lives.

blendedfamilies - my review

5 inspirational stars!

In all honesty, if you have heard about this  book I recommend that you just read or listen to it. It really is beautiful. We follow the tale of a young boy trying to find his ‘treasure,’ or in a modern day context ‘his way in life.’ He encounters challenges that we all could relate to, learns some valuable lessons that we all could apply to life, and learns how to read the ‘omens’ or ‘signs’ life gives him. As well as how to connect to the Universe and be spiritually happy. It’s such an uplifting tale, and what makes it even more worth while a read are the golden  nuggets of  motivation, self-development, and reflection points that are spread throughout the book. Like I said, if you allow yourself to really listen or absorb the messages and experiences of the main character who is referred to as ‘boy’, you can easily see how they can relate to your own life. Following reading this book I felt really good, I also felt like there is absolutely no reason why anyone on this planet, no matter their age, race, status, or wealth status, etc. should not follow their true heart’s desires. I recommend this book as a must read as we throw out the energy of 2020 ( which was  pretty harsh) and welcome the new vibes of 2021. This book just may help to make life feel, seem, and appear to be so much more better than it is, right now for us all! It did that for me. 5 inspirational stars.

Audiobook Review: Blind Tasting ( The Love List) #3 by Angela Ford 5 Really Enjoyable Stars!

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What a wonderful short story this was to listen too! I’ve not read this author’s work before, my first experience with her audiobook. I really enjoyed the way the author used imaginative ways to bring Chase and Rebecca together. The narrator did a great job bringing the author’s work alive. I  was looking for a ‘feel good read’ last night,  I started just after mid-night and finished listing to the rest the this morning, while cleaning the kitchen I smiled a lot! Let’s get into the review.

Blind TastingLove is the last thing on Becca’s mind. Until she discovers her match is Chase Tanner.

Dr. Rebecca Miller’s life is perfect until she finds her fiancé in bed with her best friend.
She takes the first offer out of New York. Becca discovers Vinegrove in the heart of wine country. Country charm is the best medicine for the doctor. But when her book club friends decide to spice it up and create the love list of eligible bachelors to date; Becca hesitates until she draws Chase’s name.

She’s denied her attraction to the firefighter/playboy since she arrived in Vinegrove. Chase discovers the love list with his name on it and believes he’s been fooled.
Will Becca be able to convince him she really does love him?

 

Kim’s Review 5 Really Enjoyable Stars

Short stories can some times be hit and miss, rushed, under developed, not really that engaging from the start etc. I never found any of this with Blind Tasting. As I listened to the audio version it felt like a complete love story to me. An enjoyable ‘second chance romance’ ,my favourite romance trope! Without giving spoilers we follow the story of Rebecca who has had her heart broken, she ends up in a new place for a new start. Here she forms friendships and does find love. What I really enjoyed about this short story is that I could identify with the main character, she is a ‘city girl’ from New York and I enjoyed the way the author eased her into ‘small town life.’ The transition into her new life seemed realistic. I could also understand why she left New York– no spoilers from  me.

I also really enjoyed the characters– Rebecca her self yes, and I liked that she was a career woman a doctor. Her girlfriends were interesting to meet too, and hear about their stories. The male line up was swoon worthy! I actually found myself liking Chase’s brother as soon as came into the story, and Chase too. They came across as real gentlemen, from a small town. The author developed well their mannerisms to reflect this. In fact the whole ‘close knit’ community of a small town I found well written, and enjoyable being a ‘city girl’ myself.

Plot- I don’t like to give too many spoilers for readers, but I enjoyed the author’s imaginative ways for Rebecca to find love, that involved her girlfriends. As I listened I thought to myself, ‘how cool would it be to do that with a group of girls, yeah they’re  all bound to find a nice guy.’ It was a good twist or situation to include in the story-line. I’m also not always a reader that loves typical ‘sweet and clean’ romance. Partly because things can always just fall into place, no challenges and sometimes can be a little hard to believe that love and life just ‘happens’ like that. With Bling Tasting I really warmed to the author’s story-telling in the plot as there were slight challenges to it.

The journey to love- the change of heart Rebecca had towards Chase was very believable. It was not rushed, unclear or underdeveloped, considering it’s a short story. I could see easily why she fell for him, after her heart break. The date they had got the ball rolling, it was such a romantic date! One that I would have loved myself, and I am petrified of horse riding LOL. But the author made me feel as if I’d like to experience what Rebecca did. It was very romantic. I also liked that there were some ‘challenge’ for Chase and Rebecca, everything didn’t just fall into place. There was a little challenge for their union, which in the end worked out.

Overall, for my first experience of this author’s work I enjoyed this feel good, sweet and clean romance. Love developed without sex heavily linked to it, a genuine bond formed. 5 really enjoyable stars from me. I would read more from the author, especially in audio book. I recommend Blind Tasting to all romance lovers who like quick reads, second chance romance and even cowboys!

At the time of writing this it’s just .99 cent on Amazon too! Grab a copy, or even the audio.

Book Review: ‘Run Girl Run’ By Willow Rose (Thriller/Mystery) 3.5 Stars

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Willow RoseThank you to Silver Dagger Book Tours for my free copy, in exchange for my honest review. I must say, I did enjoy this mystery/ thriller overall, but I did guess the plot twist a bit early (I’m sorry!)… no spoilers though, and the cliff- hanger  ending left me a little unsatisfied! But here’s what I did enjoy.

Book blurb

Willow Rose’s beloved detective, Harry Hunter is back in this thrilling second installment of the bestselling series.

When a mother and her child are pulled out of the harbor in their car, the case seems pretty straightforward for Miami PD and Detective Harry Hunter.

Everything points to a murder-suicide.

They were homeless, living in their car, and the mother decided to end it all for them both by driving into the water.

But the case is not what it looks like, Detective Harry Hunter soon realizes.

Harry’s daughter is carrying devastating knowledge about their deaths, and soon she becomes the killer’s next target.

As Harry races to protect her, he is betrayed by someone he thought he knew, leaving him terrified of trusting anyone in a town filled with liars.

RUN GIRL RUN is the second book in the Harry Hunter Mystery Series.

 

Kim’s Review 3.5 Enjoyable Stars

Okay so the blurb had me from the get go and so did the genre, this is a fast-paced story, I enjoyed the fact that it moved, and there was not too much hanging around.  I enjoyed the author’s writing style and slickness with it too. I also enjoyed that each chapter seemed to end on that classic, ‘OMG what’s going to happen next’  thriller vibe!  I loved it and I read quickly.

We follow the story of  what appears to be a suicide, but is actually a murder. This murder twists into a tale linked to  Detective Hunter himself, his wife and daughter. No spoilers…. I found this interesting reading, and also very surprising as the author touches on organ donation, and how  the life of a donor can impact the recipient of the organ.  I liked how overall the plot meshed together, to that ‘ahhh okay’ point. The plot is good,  and enjoyable to read I was glued, but I guessed a twist  before it happened e.g who really should be the focus, regarding the ‘suicide’ that’s really a murder.  That said, it’s still enjoyable as more happens.

I enjoyed the characters, but I found them a little bit 2D instead of 3D – I have no idea what anyone looks like, and I didn’t really get very close to how they felt about everything that was happening. I would have loved if the characters were as well rounded, as the pace and speed of the plot- but that’s me personally. I love to really visualise and understand the people in the pages.

The ending does leave you hanging, so if you enjoy this you will for sure pick up the next in the series. Personally, I like an ending especially in this genre… I’m sorry to say, the cliffhanger is a cool one, but  left me a little unhappy with it! (Sad face).

Overall I do recommend this series as a first time reader of this author’s work, if you like fast paced, mystery /thriller /crime plots and don’t mind cliffhangers, as opposed to a conclusion on ‘who-dun-it.’ 3.5 stars from me! But hell, I would read more from this author.

Free to read on Kindle Unlimited at the time of this review, with a hella-lot-a lovely five star reviews!! Jump in thriller lovers.

Book Review: Art and Science of Meditation 2.5 Stars (Non-Fiction/Esoteric/ Spirituality)

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Thank you to NetGallery for my free copy, in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own. Man, this has to be the hardest review I’ve done in years. I was looking over the non-fiction section (as always) and picked this up out of pure interest, with no agenda weeks ago. Being the summer solstice this weekend and an eclipse, I thought it be a great time to flick through. I love these kind of subject matters to explore.

Description

 

Final Thoughts 2.5 stars

I imagined this would make a great reference book, one that you could flick through dip in and out of or read cover to cover.  Either way I imagined a great reference book of some sort. What I found was a LOT of information, but not really sure if much of it is useful ( to me personally). I loved the idea of this book, and really do have  lots of interest in this topic and very open minded, but  the second thing I found was, the organisation of this book is  not  very helpful to read cover to cover or as a reference.  It jumps from subject to subject. Lot of info at the start, not much introduction to the subject matter, and all the information is  from a very scientific POV. Which is fine, I can handle science but with an explanation, rather than just handed to you. It wasn’t that I was lost as I read through, I just couldn’t see how it was helpful I guess,  or what is key. Because of this I found it hard to make links, see relevance or find interesting.

The most helpful area for me was the section on chakras,  that said I knew a lot of this info already. Overall, it was hard for me to take away much info from the book, or learn much with the organisation, jumping and lack of explanation. But  obviously the book has been researched well, that’s for sure! But what good is research with not much organisation of it so the logic can be found, or deeper explanations for the average Joe? This is such a hard review to do, I wanted to and thought I would LOVE THIS BOOK and buy a copy for my book shelf, but sadly 2.5 stars from me.

But I wish the author well and hope that there is a readership found for the book and I thank Netgallery greatly for my free copy.

Book Review: Sacred Energies Of The Sun And Moon. 4 ‘Informative’ Stars ( Esoteric/Non-Fiction/ Spirituality) #SacredEnergiesoftheSunandMoon #NetGalley

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Sun Moon Book

Thank you to Netgallery for my free copy in exchange for an honest review. What an informative and interesting book. There’s just SO MUCH information to take in from these pages, it’s well researched, with lots of information on how the Aztecs, indigenous, African and Latin ancestors made use of the Sun and Moon to survive, and how we can today use our ancestor’s knowledge to improve our quality of life. My only problem was the organisation of this book, but let’s get into the review.

Book Blurb

A practical guide to ancient Mesoamerican solar and lunar rites for healing and transformation

• Details shamanic rituals and practices for each period of the day, including dawn, sunrise, noon, sunset, and midnight, to best harness the energies of the sun, night sun, and moon for specific purposes, such as divination, journeying with animal spirit guides, or spiritual wisdom

• Incorporates shamanic breathwork, dreamwork, mantra chanting, mudras, dancing and movement, toning, chakra work, crystals, herbs, and limpias (shamanic cleanses)

• Explores how nighttime energies are affected by the phases of the moon, offering specific practices for each phase

Ancient Mesoamerican shamans and modern practitioners of curanderismo–a Latin American shamanic healing practice–divide each day and night into distinct periods based on the sacred rhythms of the sun and moon, with each time offering opportunities to connect with specific celestial energies for healing and transformation.

In this hands-on guide to working with the sacred energies of the sun, night sun, and moon, curandera Erika Buenaflor details the rites, rituals, and deities for each part of the day and night and explores the sacred tools and techniques used by ancient Mesoamerican shamans for harnessing solar and lunar energies. She explains how the sun is the source of soul energy that heals, animates, strengthens, and revitalizes us on many levels, while night energies are transformative and conducive for connecting with nonordinary realms. She explores rituals for dawn, sunrise, and midmorning to harness the energies of creation and new beginnings; for noon and afternoon to promote peak strength and spiritual wisdom; for sunset and dusk to bring about transformation, perform divination, and journey with animal spirit guides; and for midnight and predawn to facilitate shamanic dreamwork, connect with the ancestors, make offerings, and regenerate at the deepest levels. She also explores how nighttime energies are affected by the phases of the moon and offers specific practices for each phase.

By intentionally tuning our activities to the rhythms of the sun and moon, we can invite in their sacred energies of abundance and healing for more healthy, creative, mindful, and happy lives.

 

Kim’s Review 4 Very Informative  and Practical Stars

I must admit, when I picked up this book I was hoping that it would be more of a reference book, as in, I could personally flip to the parts of interest or need, read, and apply. Then ‘rinse and repeat’ and that’s exactly what I got. This book has A LOT of info, and I think to read it cover to cover would just be overload,  especially for a newbie to the subject. It’s very deep and I loved it! So for those with philosophical minds I recommend it. It’s generally really  good for reference. The beginning chapters I did read all of, to get a good understanding of the research done, and the information download from ‘the ancestors’, and how they worked. Also, the first introductory chapters focus on how the Sun and Moon were viewed from their point of view, and how they were attached to certain deities. Very interesting. Here’s what I loved generally.

Detail- the level of detail is like none other I have come across on this subject, and I’ve read a lot of esoteric books on the Sun and Moon. I found that the detail is however focused on the Aztec people or the Ancient Mesoamerican shamans. Being from Afro-Caribbean descent myself, I found that their POV was very similar to my own ancestors when I compared it, and this was comforting.  I also liked that this is not an ‘astrology’ book, as a qualified astrologer I loved that the Sun and Moon are discussed for what they are from an ancestor’s POV, rather than an astrology view point.

Practicality- there seems to be so much here that you can practically apply, easily just based on the time of day! I found that the author has made this a very easy to apply book. Also, I felt like the author did not ‘force’ things on readers ‘ you must do this’, generally I got the feel that it was valid information, ‘this is what you can do with it  practically, should you wish’.

Break down of the Sun and Moon’s energies- This was my favourite part of the book, as the author clearly shows the differences between dawn, sunrise, high- noon, afternoon etc for the Sun and what activities, manifestations or practical things could be suited to their energies to help better your life! The same is done for the Moon. Lastly, the author has very accurately broke down the different Moon phases, as some who has studied astrology it all resonated, aligned with what I know, also felt like while this was not new information for me, for newbies it is very helpful!

Overall this is a book that I will  buy for my bookshelf, I feel like I would refer back to it as a reference book. My only issue is the organisation of it LOL. I don’t know if it’s because I got a review copy, it’s not published until July, but I would love for the organisation of the information to be a bit cleaner, and that’s all! Four informative, practical and wonderful stars from me. I recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in this kind of topic, however you must have an open mind, and also be in the mood to ‘think’ and take in the deep knowledge that is passed on. This is not a book that can be read without some form of questioning to take in the  full beauty of it.  I really enjoyed it.

Book Review: ‘The Secret Lives Of Church Ladies’ (Literary Fiction/Anthology). 5 ‘Wow’ Stars #TheSecretLivesofChurchLadies #NetGalley

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Thank you to Netgallery for my free copy, in exchange for a honest review. I didn’t know what to expect, as the blurb doesn’t give away much. But wow! I really loved each and every story in this anthology. I read it in one day! I haven’t actually read ‘literary fiction’ for some time, but this really  struck a cord and memorable. The author has a very unique and frank way about her. Let’s get into the review.

Church ladies

Short stories about race and sexuality by a Pittsburgh author whose work on African American topics has appeared in the New York Times, the Washington Post, and McSweeney’s.

The Secret Lives of Church Ladies explores the raw and tender places where Black women and girls dare to follow their desires and pursue a momentary reprieve from being good. The nine stories in this collection feature four generations of characters grappling with who they want to be in the world, caught as they are between the church’s double standards and their own needs and passions.

There is fourteen-year-old Jael, who has a crush on the preacher’s wife. At forty-two, Lyra realizes that her discomfort with her own body stands between her and a new love. As Y2K looms, Caroletta’s “same time next year” arrangement with her childhood best friend is tenuous. A serial mistress lays down the ground rules for her married lovers. In the dark shadows of a hospice parking lot, grieving strangers find comfort in each other.

With their secret longings, new love, and forbidden affairs, these church ladies are as seductive as they want to be, as vulnerable as they need to be, as unfaithful and unrepentant as they care to be, and as free as they deserve to be.

 

Kim’s review 5 ‘wow’ stars!

The reviews on Netgallery when I stumbled across this title, under the multicultural interest section made me wonder what I’d find inside the book. I don’t normally read reviews at all. If I want to read, I will regardless of who said what, but I do sometimes just look at star ratings from reviews, many seemed low when I picked up this title. I can’t understand it, as this is a gem of a book! I honestly think no matter your race  or gender anyone can really get into this literary fiction, even if the focus is on women of colour and their experiences.

In all honesty, the blurb does not give away the true beauty of this author’s work, I was pulled in by the blurb, cover etc, but after reading it I feel that this for me was one of those books that took me by surprise, in how good, raw, honest and frank, and engaging these stories are. There is no heavy ‘religious focus’ either, it’s used in context of experiences of women who really wanna break free of all that, or have been chained to it for whatever reason.  And it makes very insightful and thought  provoking reading.

I would say, if you are overly sensitive then pass this up, and save  your one star review for ‘bad language’. If you put the characters into context, time frame etc, you can totally understand the language the characters (not author) use, it makes sense.  In fact if you’re a very sensitive reader full stop, it may not be for you.

There are  more than a handful of stories here, I lost count I was just turning pages really quickly. I don’t have a favourite as I loved them all, but some really hit me and struck me as ‘wow’. There’s one about a young girl, and her mother is dating or ‘seeing’ a married pastor for a decade and what she went through. The ending and ‘moral’ of the story touched me when I reflected. The second one that was highly memorable for me, was the story about a young  girl who had a ‘thing’ for a lady at church, the ending was crazy! Lastly ‘How to  Make Love to a  Physicist’ was touch a beautiful, heart-warming story, showing a woman’s growth and her ability to love herself, and fall in love, and run away and fall in love again!  I loved it. All about two people connecting at a distance, then falling together as maybe ‘fate’ and growing. I could go on,  I loved them all.

Overall, this is a great literary fiction piece of art here, I enjoyed every page and would even read it a second time, later down the line. I felt each story had some kind of moral to it. The characters were just fantastic! Lively, bold, and  at times had me in chuckling. I would read more from this author, and I would love a copy for my book case not just e-book. I wish her so much luck when this drops for publication in September 2020.  5 ‘wow good read’ stars from me!

Book Review: Midnight Mom Devotional ( Non-Fiction) 5+ Outstanding Stars #MidnightMomDevotional #NetGalley

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Thank you to Netgallery for my free copy, in exchange for an honest review. I read the introduction, the first three pages and ordered myself a copy!! I have received three devotionals, two I’ve bought and one I didn’t. Out of the three, this one is by far the best. I really enjoyed it, and will make  use of it weekly no doubt.

MNMD

A yearlong book of prayers to bring nightly hope and a sense of connection to mothers who feel alone, from the mother-daughter team behind the Midnight Mom Devotional Facebook page

There is something about a quiet house in the midnight hours that causes stress and anxious thoughts that have been ignored throughout the day to rise to the surface of a mother’s heart. When the world goes still around you, it’s good to know you’re not alone; there are so many other mommas just like you and a God who wants to meet you in the quiet.

What began as a small online prayer ministry to encourage moms in the middle of the night quickly grew into a worldwide prayer movement known as the Midnight Mom Devotional. Now this encouraging book of prayers connects you with a community of moms to strengthen your heart and give you support when you need it most.

Each night offers a different prayer for mommas in all circumstances of life, including

• being fearful and anxious
• needing a miracle
• caring for a sick child
• feeling as if there is nothing left to give
• welcoming a new baby
• experiencing sorrow
• getting ready for a new beginning

In the stillness and the night, take heart in knowing that women across the world are joining you in prayer and that God is listening and loving you right where you are.

Kim’s Review 5+ Outstanding Stars! A Must For All Mom’s Especially The ‘Non-Religious’

So while browsing the religion and spirituality section on Netgallery I came across this gem! The problem I’ve had with devotionals in the past, and from the three that I have received, is that they’re ALL too far leaned towards ‘religion and God’ in my personal taste. I am HIGHLY spiritual, at lot of you will know that from the ‘woo woo’ books I love to read. But I’m  in no way shape or form religious in the traditional sense. There is a  BIG difference to me, without offending anyone personally, I can’t conform to some of the ‘man made’ aspects of the Bible, and also I know the role that the Christian and Catholic religion played in the mistreatment of my own ancestors, and the transatlantic slave trade. So I won’t buy into it at all, for that alone, period. BUT I do believe in ‘higher powers’ and not one God. I found with this devotional to be just right in it’s approach with prayers, religion and God. In fact to me, there is not a heavy  emphasis  as I flicked through on ‘read this scripture in the Bible’ follow this up etc. It’s simple, plain, in non-religious language. Just one simple ‘prayer’ of well wishes and support for EVERY situation a mother and woman could face, no matter her life circumstances. There’s one for everyday of the year from January-December.

Like I said, I read the first week of prayers and well wishes for January and bought a copy, then I turned to my birthday and it was a lovely prayer for 14th February, and today’s date that I am reviewing this, also an equally beautiful prayer. I loved all these things about this devotional:

The prayers and well wishes- they are simply stunning, helpful, realistic and very uplifting and inspirational. They are short, sweet and even those like me who are non-religious would not be put off at all. I actually found a few very relevant to myself! Which was fantastic.

The community feel– this started off with one mother posting on her Facebook page  at  midnight simply ‘who is up and what are you worried about/going through?’ A flood of mothers responded and from then on, the devotional was written and every night women around the world follow along each night on the date relevant, with a ‘midnight prayer and well wishes’ for whatever subject or situation a mother could face in life, and interact on social media. I LOVE THIS It’s just beautiful and the thought of having an army mothers around the world supporting others with the ‘topic of the day’ makes me wanna cry! Lolz it’s so beautiful.

Overall, I think the idea behind this devotional is a fantastic one,  one that many women  could benefit from, it has been executed well into an actual book, worth the money and I love everything about it. I would recommend it for all mothers.  5+ outstanding stars for me, I can’t wait for my hard copy to arrive! Grab yours now on Amazon.

Book Review: ‘What About Love’ by Bai Jaye 4 Lovely Stars! ( AA Romance) #amreading

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Bai JayneWow what a lovely little bite sized love story with a cute happy ever after! I really enjoyed reading this novella from just the first view pages. I would have liked more to this.   This author is new to me, I stumbled across the book on Facebook, and read it on one sitting! Let’s get into the review.

Blurb

Running out of the back of the bridal shop as her fiancé comes in looking for her Gabrielle Nowell literally runs into the man of her dreams on the street. When their bodies collide the magic of love fills the air. Both of them are instantly smitten, but Gabrielle knows it could never amount to anything with her wedding set for Valentines Day a little less than two months away.
DeSai Hardy is the latest hot R&B singer in the game. Signed to Golden Nowell records, he is engaged to Gabrielle Nowell, the princess of the company. However, true to his bad boy R&B image, DeSai continues to juggle multiple women at a time. DeSai has Gabby as his future wife, Sasha as his main chick and now has added another to his rotation.
Ace Prince wasn’t looking for love, but somehow cupid caught up with him anyway. Always focused on his daughter and his businesses he didn’t have much time for anything else. When he bumped into Gabrielle on the street, he couldn’t fight his attraction. Never has he set his sights on a woman that was spoken, but this time he’s losing the battle and fast. Will love win in the end or will hearts be fumbled?

Kim’s Review 4 Lovely Stars! More Please

I genuinely love it when I stumble across a book that’s short, but engaging and enjoyable a good example of an author that does not need to babble on to craft a good tale. What drew me into this story was the blurb, I remember thinking to myself, ‘wow these are two very contrasting men here, I wonder how this will turn out?’ Most importantly I hoped that the author would be able to build the contrast between DeSai and Ace…. boy did she! Here’s what I loved.

Characters-  The separation between the two main men’s mentality was clearly there. In fact I really disliked DeSai and I was meant to! He was not a nice guy  which made me lean towards Gabby and root for her. Gabby herself was a like-able character too. Ace, to me was  a great  ‘book boyfriend’. He was sweet, romantic and he fought for Gabby, literally (no spoilers) and emotionally.  In the end I felt like he was very deserving of her love, and that he was just the kind of man she needed after DeSai. The other female characters also were cool to read, even if  they were up to no good. Generally the characters were interesting to read.

Story line- This is a novella, and it moves quickly and it was engaging to read right from the start. I also liked the push and pull between DeSai and Gabby.  I really liked how Ace and Gabby’s  love developed. To me as a reader it was a classic example of ‘just knowing’ when you meet someone. Or some may call it ‘insta-love’ in romance, but it was realistic to me. Sometimes you do meet people and know that you could build something with them. I liked the fact that Ace was not even looking for love, but Gabby seemed to be the right woman to change his mind.

I found the set up of the story rather unique, this is an arranged marriage kind of between DeSai and Gabby. The circumstances being around DeSai’s fame and Gabby’s father’s values as a man struck me as unique to read.

Reality- I liked that part of this story shows Ace as a father, he has a little girl who he is responsible for. I liked that he was a good father, and that his relationship with the mother of his child was not typical ‘baby mama and baby daddy’ drama. I’m not really a fan of stories that play into these stereotypes within African American or urban romance. I loved that this author did not feel the need to hype up a dramatic woman, who would not allow the father of her child to move on. Or Gabby have ‘issues’ with the other woman.  I also liked that as I read I could feel the change of heart in Ace, and his view point over whether he wanted to settle in a relationship.

Overall, What About Love is a lovely romance story with good characters, an enjoyable story line, and a beautiful happy ending. The only thing I would have loved is to have more on the development with Ace and Gabby, once they finally got over their challenges I felt like I could have read more once it ended. That’s a good thing!   I recommend  this novella to all those who enjoy romance generally, that can be read in under two hours, those who like multicultural or African American romance and are looking for a genuine love story. I would read more from the author. It’s free to read on Kindle Unlimited too at the time of this review, with great reviews.

Book Review-‘His True Love’ By Lynn Chantale 4 Intriguing Stars!! + Giveaway (Mystery/Romance)

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Kim’s Review 4 ‘intriguing’ read more stars!

Thank you to Silver Dagger Book Tours for my free copy in exchange for an honest review. Well, damn what have I stumbled on here!! What a read. You know, I was drawn in from page one and I read this in one whole sitting. A wonderful bite sized mystery/crime/romance novella of just 100 pages. I would read the next one in the series for sure. Let’s get into the review.

Story-line/ plot – I was pulled in by the blurb and cover of this book. I honestly expected the romance and love element to be connected to the victims of the crime, but it’s not! Here we have three detectives two men and a woman, who are lovers! Yes!! This kinda shocked me and kept me turning pages, as they are a team of lovers fighting crime. This made some very steamy reading in some parts that I really enjoyed. But it’s not overly explicit at all, all tasteful sex scenes and there are not too many so that’s cool, there is more plot than sex, which I loved.

The plot is quick moving, I loved that the author put the reader right in the middle of the action, from page one. I found that I had to focus, pay attention and read closely to get to grips with the crime and who did what. In all honesty, I really enjoyed the pace, plot, and unexpected relationship with the detectives.

The crime is solved, and they find the ‘bad guy’ by working together. I’m not one for spoilers, I won’t say too much, but we follow the ‘bad guy’ and readers are aware of him. But the story plays out as us readers following the detectives trying to piece together the crime. I liked this.

Characters- I liked them all really, the three detectives, the woman captured and everyone.  They were all believable too. The female detective is full of balls and fearless, and the male ones very protective as her, as she is used as bait to solve the crime- no spoilers.

The only thing I would have loved is more  character development on the ‘bad guy.’ I would have loved to know more about him, and the relationship he had with his girlfriend, which caused him to do the things he did.  I would have also liked to know more about Heather,after the detectives found her, what happened to her? Now when a reader wants to know more this is never a bad thing! They are truly engaged in the story. With the character line up, I was. The characters are also very multi-cultural and diverse also, this I really loved.

Overall for me I felt as first time reader of this author’s work I feel that His True Love is a great start to a detective series. And it left me wanting to read the next one, the story ends with another case for the detectives to follow up, and when it’s released  I would love to read it. The story flows well, with interesting characters and for sure it’s an intriguing read, as you have the sub-plot of romance with the detectives. I really liked it, pages turned quickly for me.

I feel in all honesty, if the story was just padded out a tiny bit more with details on the ‘bad guy’, the lady who was captured- Heather and found that would have been ideal! But even without this, it’s a good read.  Four intriguing and engaging stars from me. I recommend it to those who like mystery an detective stories with a difference! This is not your average read, it’s truly different with the detective’s love affair. Great start to a series, let’s have more!

His True Love
True Detective Series
by Lynn Chantale
Genre: Mystery Menage Romance
In a small town, in a popular bar, beautiful women disappear. This could just be a coincidence, but private investigators, Carson, Matt and Nathalie don’t believe in them. So they go undercover.
However, when one of the missing women turns up dead, the trio is disturbed to learn the woman bore a striking resemblance to Nathalie; they increase their efforts. When Nathalie disappears from the same bar, Carson and Matt will do anything to find her.
*Contains explicit descriptions of sex, strong language, and descriptions of violence.*
Lynn Chantale resides in Southwest Florida and she is determined to enjoy all that life has to offer. She has a mad affinity for milk chocolate, preferably Dove chocolate truffles or the caramel-filled squares (Godiva is acceptable), and plays the bass guitar when the Muse begs for a bit of distraction.
She’s a multi-published author in ebooks and has recently stepped into the self-publishing world. So far both experiences have been rewarding.
Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

 

 

Book Review + Giveaway ‘Kill For You’ by Ayden. K . Morgen 5 stars!!! (Romantic Suspense)

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Kill For You
A Warrior For Her #2
by Ayden K. Morgen
Genre: Romantic Suspense
The last thing Detective Octavio Hernandez expects to find at the scene of a mass gang-related shooting is a brown-eyed angel standing bravely in the midst of the chaos. One look at Faith Donovan and the homicide detective knows there’s more to her than meets the eye. She’s keeping secrets that just might help bring down Los Zetas, one of the biggest drug cartels in Los Angeles.
He just has to convince her that trusting him is worth the risk.
Forced upon a mother who didn’t want her and enslaved by a gang that refuses to let her go without a fight, Faith’s life has never been her own. She thought she’d made peace with her fate…until Octavio sweeps in and carries her out of her blood-soaked cage.
Faith trusts no one, but the hardened detective makes it difficult to remember why. The way he cares for her makes her ache for what she never thought she’d find: love and a family of her own. But trusting him when she knows he has an ulterior motive is one of the most difficult things she’ll ever do.
He swore to give her the freedom she craves, but when the secrets she holds paint a target on her back, keeping that promise will prove no easy feat.
To secure her freedom and win her heart, this detective will move mountains. And take down anyone standing in his way.
Kill for You is the second book in a series of interconnected full-length novels featuring law enforcement officers willing to do whatever it takes to protect the women who need them most. Each book can be read as a standalone, has no cheating, and a guaranteed HEA.

 

On March 17th, 100% of author proceeds from Kill for You will be donated to Operation Underground Railroad to aid in the rescue of child victims of human trafficking. Post release day, 10% of proceeds will continue to go to Operation Underground Railroad. To date, Operation Underground Railroad has rescued over 3,200 children from slavery and has helped prosecute over 1,800 human traffickers. Learn more about O.U.R. and pledge your support here.

 

Fight For You
A Warrior For Her #1
Some things are worth fighting for.
Some people are worth dying for.
For me, January James is both.
Too bad she hates me.
Ten years ago, I destroyed her life and lost everything that mattered to me. I’ve been in hell since, desperately trying to forget her even though I’ve never been able to do it. She still haunts me.
Now a dangerous enemy from my past has it out for her. He isn’t going to stop until he gets what he wants. I know I should stay away before I hurt her all over again, but I can’t do it.
It’s time to stop running and start fighting for her.
My name is Michael Kincaid, and this is my swan song. When it’s over, I’ll either be the monster at the end of this book…or I’ll be the man January deserves.
Fight for You is an angsty and emotional brother’s best friend, second chance romance. It is the first book in a series of interconnected full-length standalone novels featuring alpha male cops willing to do whatever it takes to protect the women who need them most. Each book has no cheating, and a guaranteed HEA.
**Only .99cents 3/15 to 3/31 on Amazon!** 
Ayden K. Morgen is the Amazon Bestselling author of the Ragnarök Prophesies series. She lives in the heart of Arkansas with her childhood sweetheart/husband of fifteen years, and their furry minions. When not writing, she spends her time hiking, reading, volunteering, causing mischief, and building a Spork army.
She graduated summa cum laude with her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and Forensic Psychology in 2009 before going on to complete her graduate degree in CJ and Law.
She puts her education to use as a 911 Dispatch Supervisor, where she’s responsible for leading a team of dispatchers as they watch over police, EMS, and firefighters for her county. Her books feature law enforcement officers, the women who love them, and the difficult cases that drive them.
She also writes New Adult Fantasy as A.K. Morgen.
$10 Amazon giftcard
$5 Amazon giftcard
3 Warrior Series swag packs
2 copies of the complete Teplo Trilogy
Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
 
 

Kim’s Review- ‘Kill For You’

5 ‘Outstanding Character Development’ Stars!!

Thank you to Silver Dagger Tours for my free copy in exchange for a honest review.

Well of course I’d be drawn to this book, the genre, the blurb, the man in a suit on the front it all screams ‘Kim’s read’ really. And it did not disappoint one bit!! In all honesty, I am so proud to have this author representing the romantic suspense genre. Here’s what I enjoyed.

Character development– Boy, can this author craft an alpha-male  (that’s not a dick, and come across as not very nice. ) The whole male line up is just tooooooooooo dieeeeeeeeeee for! In one shape or form I swear to God, I tell no lies here. I found the main character Octavio to be very believable, authentic and hot! His co-workers and the other guys who he worked with in the plot, were all just as hot and enjoyable to meet.The same for the females, Faith is just adorable and so strong. Overall I felt that this author did a great job with developing a strong male lead, and a believable female lead that has experienced major trauma.

Now the ‘bad guys’, to me they were also really enjoyable to read and very well developed.

Plot and Pace- it moves quickly, has twists and turns and one very unexpected change for Faith. I never saw it coming ( no spoilers). It was beautiful to read, and nice that it was an outside of the box twist too. The whole plot ties together nicely, it felt almost like reading not just romantic suspense, but also a detective story, as we readers ‘get to the bottom of the mystery’ around Faith.

Reality-  I must say, I found this plot to be very realistic, it touches on abuse and the  human sex and slave trade. It tied in very well with Faith’s  plot twist I mentioned. So not only for me as a reader did I feel the characters were extremely believable, so was the plot, reality, likelihood of things happening. It all left me with no doubts over the character’s motives and actions. It touches on drugs, crime, and gang related activities also. Just brilliantly executed.

Overall, five wonderful, well written and enjoyable stars from me. Romantic suspense fans you don’t wanna miss this one, I’m just sayin’.  I would read more of this author’s work. I have the next one on my kindle, and gutted I can’t read it in time for the end of her book tour, but trust I’ll be reading it!! I wish Author Ayden K. Morgen all the best with her career, and may her pen take over the genre by storm!