Yearly Archives: 2016

September 15, 2016 · 5:00 am

Wild Goose Chase by Jan Romes (Book Review)

 
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Olivia Pence has been a word-nerd and all-around geek forever, which didn’t exactly win her a ton of friends growing up. It did, however, snag the attention of a like-minded geek, Dezz Casey. Instead of becoming fast friends, Dezz became a competitive thorn. The rivalry continued through grade school, high school, college, and now as co-workers for Brilliance magazine. The most annoying thing – Dezz went from being a homely dork to six-feet-three-inches of hotness that infuriates Olivia to the point of madness. Their boss has had her fill of the chaos and orders a two-week cooling-off period where they’re to travel (separately) and find serendipitous situations to write about. Will the time away fix their work issues and their hearts? Or will it amount to a wild goose chase that drives them farther apart?
 
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(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 
 
Olivia and I had so much in common it was hard not to connect with the character. She was a germaphobe, OCD, named her car, writer, and a geek. It was like Jan was writing about me, in my younger years. Even Olivia not realizing Dezz’s flirtatious banter was legit hit a cord with me. 
 
Dezz, oh sweet Dezz. I can’t believe he waited and pinned for Olivia for 23 years. It took him until the age of 28 for him to finally make a play. Of course, Olivia didn’t believe his flirtiness was real because of their competitive relationship and how they goaded each other, often. 
 
All it took for her to really see him for HIM was liquor. Not the healthiest way to start a relationship, but I digress. 
 
Of course, once her eyes were open to the wonderfulness of Dezz, he still didn’t get his lady. Actually, she continued to hurt him, unintentionally.
 
However, through a mugging, flying underwear, toilet mishap, and much more, they did get their HEA. 
 
Oh I should note, Jan, even though it wasn’t my phone that landed in the public restroom, I still went and sanitized my hands. TWICE!! 
 
Even though I loved the humor, I had to give it a 3.5 rating. Why, you may ask?
 
Two reasons: A.) She’s 28, turned 29 and “intact”. It’s appearing too often in books lately and seemed unrealistic.  B.) In chapter 9, he claimed, “I don’t have sex with women I don’t love.” He wasn’t a virgin so who did he love before and why wasn’t that tidbit touched on before or after their near sexual encounter?  
 
Besides those two hiccups for me,  it was a fun – flirty – and fabulous read! 
 
 
Heart Rating System
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest)  
Score: ❤❤❤1/2
 
KINDLE PURCHASE LINK
PRINT LINK
 
 

Jan Romes is a hopeless romantic who grew up in northwest Ohio with eight zany siblings. Married to her high school sweetheart for more years than seems possible, she is also a proud mom, mother-in-law, and grandmother. She likes to read all genres, writes witty contemporary romance and women’s fiction, enjoys finding new ways to stay fit and gardens even though she doesn’t claim to have a green thumb.

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September 13, 2016 · 5:00 am

Secret of the Gargoyles: Gargoyle Guardian Chronicles, Book 3 by Rebecca Chastain (Book Review)

I place the lives of all gargoyles into your hands with what I am about to tell you…

In her brief career as a gargoyle healer, Mika Stillwater has faced some daunting challenges, but none have stumped her—until now. A strange sickness infects a handful of gargoyles in Terra Haven, rendering them comatose and paralyzed. Worse, the cure she seeks is shrouded in the gargoyles’ mysterious culture and the secret they guard with their lives.

Gaining the gargoyles’ trust is only the first step. To save the sick gargoyles, Mika must embark on a perilous mission into the heart of deadly wild magic to a place no human has ever survived…

The captivating conclusion to the Gargoyle Guardian Chronicles trilogy, Secret of the Gargoyles will charm readers of all ages, especially those who love extraordinary magic and endearing gargoyles.

 
 
 
(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 
 
Secret of the Gargoyles picks up where Curse of the Gargoyles left off at. Elsa Lansing is in prison but the gargoyles used for her own gains are still comatose. Mika embarks on a journey to save the seven gargoyles who can’t escape the dormancy sickness. With the help of Oliver, Celeste (another gargoyle) and Marcus, they go where no one dares to venture — Reaper’s Ridge. 
 
There, they battle magical storms, gargoyles, and the power of the baetyle (sacred place of the gargoyles) to restore things as they were before. 
 
Was the mission a 100% success? Sadly no but in a great story we don’t expect everything to go exactly as planned. What would the fun be in that? We like action, suspense, and —  Holy sh!t,  did you see that?! — moments.  Rebecca most certainly delivers all those in the latest installment in the Gargoyle Guardian Chronicles. 
 
In Secret of the Gargoyles, will readers finally see a relationship take form between Marcus and Mika? Abso-freaking-lutely and about damn time too!!!
 
However, now I have to wonder a few things. We met Naomi, the train conductor, at the start of their journey. Her and Marcus seemed to have a connection. They flirted a bit which made Mika jealous. Will we see Naomi again and, if so, will she impact their new budding romance?
 
Guess only time will tell and I, for one, will be eagerly awaiting where Rebecca’s creative mind takes us next. 
 
 
Heart Rating System – 1 (lowest) and 5
(highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤1/2
 
 
 
Reading Order (click on the titles to be redirected to Amazon):
 
 

Rebecca Chastain is the international bestselling author of the Madison Fox, Illuminant Enforcer series and the Gargoyle Guardian Chronicles, among others works. She has found seven four-leaf clovers to date, won a purebred Arabian horse in a drawing, and once tamed a blackbird for a day. Writing stories designed to amuse and entertain has been her passion since she was eleven years old. She lives in Northern California with her wonderful husband and three bossy cats.


Website: http://www.rebeccachastain.com
Newsletter: http://www.rebeccachastain.com/fantasy-newsletter/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebeccachastainnovels
Twitter: @Author_Rebecca or https://twitter.com/Author_Rebecca
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5660379.Rebecca_Chastain

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September 11, 2016 · 5:00 am

The Devil’s Own Desperado by Lynda J. Cox (Book Review)

 

 

He’s everything she fears… Wounded gunfighter Colt Evans stumbles onto a remote homestead never expecting to find compassion. But beautiful Amelia McCollister is like no other woman. Suddenly, his dream of settling down with a wife and home is within reach–but only if his past never comes gunning for him. She’s everything he dreams of… Amelia had to grow up fast after outlaws murdered her parents, leaving her to raise her siblings alone. With a young brother who idolizes shootists, she dreads having a notorious gunman in her home. But as Colt slowly recovers, he reveals a caring nature under his tough exterior that Amelia can’t resist. Just when Colt starts to believe he can leave the gunfighter life behind, his past returns, bringing danger to them all. Can a shootist ever hang up his hardware? Or will their dreams disappear in the smoke of a desperado’s gun?

Amazon Print Link / Kindle Link

 
(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 
 

No matter if it’s 2016 or 1887, you never can escape your past. Some how, some way, it will rear its ugly head. In Colt Evan’s case, his past brought danger in the regards to gun-toting men looking to settle a score.

As you can imagine, with any good historical tale, there instances where men drew guns. One at a card game (beginning of the book) and another towards the end of the book (where past meets present). In both instances, Colt survived both battles. Sure, he might’ve sustained some damage but I didn’t really expect him to come away unscathed. You wouldn’t either, right?

Even though this book some tension filled sections, the rest of the story was mostly filled with tender moments. Amelia and Colt’s stolen kisses and lovemaking could only be described as sweet.

Jenny, Amelia’s sister, was so dang cute. I loved it when she smiled and, as a parent, it tugged on my heart to see her afraid. There was one scene, with her, that reminded me of an unforgettable moment in The Patriot (2000). I’m speaking of tear-jerker involving Benjamin Martin (Mel Gibson) and his daughter, Susan (Skye McCole Bartusiak). For those who’ve seen the hit movie, I think you know which scene I’m thinking about and can get a rough idea where I’m heading with my vague remarks regarding Jenny. 

As for Saul, you can tell he’s going to grow up to be a fine gentlemen because he’s already a sweet young man. 
 

Heart Rating System – 1 (lowest) and 5
(highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤
 
Amazon Print Link / Kindle Link
 
 

Lynda J. Cox will tell anyone who will listen that she was born at least one hundred and fifty years too late, and most definitely in the wrong part of the country. Her heart has always belonged to cowboys, the wide open spaces, horses, and Lassie. She grew up on a steady diet of cowboy movies, syndicated Westerns, and Lassie.

All of those influences play a role in her life now. She writes western historical romance and raises and shows collies. She holds a master’s degree in English with a concentration in creative writing from Indiana State University after earning her BA from the same university as a non-traditional student. (Think being old enough to be mom to 90% of the students in her freshman cadre.)

She’s kept busy with two spoiled rotten house cats, a 30 plus year old Arabian gelding who has been nicknamed “Lazarus” for his ability in the later years of his life to escape death, and quite a few champion collies.

When she isn’t writing, she can be found on the road, travelling to the next dog show. She loves to chat about books, the writing life, and the insanity which is called a “dog show” and can be reached through her Facebook page at Lynda J. Cox. (https://www.facebook.com/lyndajcox)
 

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September 9, 2016 · 5:00 am

A Witch’s Journey by Tena Stetler (Book Review)

June 15, 2016
  
Pepper McKay comes from a long line of powerful witches. Unfortunately, magic brings her nothing but trouble. She learned the love of wildlife rescue and rehab from her Aunt Ashling. After graduating from college, Pepper works for Salem Wildlife Sanctuary and lives from paycheck to paycheck until she inherits the McKay property in Lobster Cove. With the family land and resources, she dares to dream of starting her own wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center.

Lathen Quartz, a former Navy SEAL turned handyman maintains the enchanted McKay property for the McKay estate. But someone is trying to steal the McKay magic. Lathen offers to help Pepper achieve her life-long dream of building a wildlife center. During the long hours spent together on the project, their mutual attraction can’t be denied. But each harbors a deep, dark secret. Will they overcome their demons and give love a chance?


 
 
Pepper hopped out of the truck and took a deep breath. The ocean breeze brought a mixed scent of brine, sand, sun and kelp. Seabirds whistled and screeched through the air diving into the white crested waves, proudly emerging with dinner. Turning her attention to the land, she noticed beyond the barn, the pond was still there, even a bit bigger than she remembered. Caught up in the smells, sights, and sounds, she didn’t hear someone approach.
 
“Ms. McKay?”
 
“Sssshit,” she yelped and whirled around to see a muscular man, well over six feet, with surfer blond hair nearly to his shoulders, tousled by the ocean breeze. Rounding the corner of the cabin, he waved at her as he approached walking with a slight limp. Deeply tanned, he appeared to spend a lot of time outdoors.
 
“I’m Lathen Quartz. Glad you made it before dark. The road up here can be treacherous after dark if you don’t know where you’re going.  I finished up the enclosed aviary and was getting ready to leave. But now that you’re here, I’d be happy to show you around. Help you get settled.”
 
“Pepper McKay, call me Pepper.” Extending her hand towards him, she met his gaze. His large aquamarine eyes were mesmerizing, set above the high cheekbones, full lips and a butterscotch five o’clock shadow. She gave her head a shake. “Wait. You built an aviary?”
 
He shook her hand and smiled, shoving his hands in the pockets of his jeans and rocking back on his heels.
 
 
 
(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 
 
For a story featuring witches and werewolves, I expected more shifting and magical moments. A ghostly aunt did appear occasionally and there were small uses of magic (lighting a fire or cleaning a stovetop) but, for the most part, magic really came into play in the last chapter. This is also where everything is explained (clarified), too. 
 
It’s great Tena left no loose ends; however,  I think she should’ve utilized Benjamin’s dark side more. In doing so, I believe the book would’ve lived up it’s title and scored much higher. 
 
Besides the lack of witchery, a few other things nagged at me and caused me to score it low. 
 
1.) Werewolves have a great sense of smell yet Kolby didn’t scent his brother, Lathen, and was startled when Lathen placed a hand on his shoulder. He should’ve smelt him, knew his scent anywhere. I couldn’t get past it and saw Kolby more as an ordinary man than a werewolf. 
2.) Tena seemed more interested in detailing what they were eating, had ate, or discussing food in general. I swear it was starting to feel more like a cooking show than a supernatural book.
3.) With Kate’s (waitress) infatuation with Lathen and her apparent dislike of Pepper, I assumed we’d see some Fatal Attraction craziness. I assumed wrong. 
4.) Tena had Lathen wondering “Do I have kink?” after a waitress mentioned the BDSM club (Red Club). I thought she might be leading up to something down the line, but nope. Now looking back, the namedrop seems pointless. 
 
High points:
Chapter 21 and 23 are worth reading. 
If I liked cold temps, I would visit Alaska because it sounds breath-taking. 
Also, this story had me wondering what I would do if a deceased relative left me a load of cash like Aunt Ashling did for Pepper. 
 
 
Heart Rating System – 1 (lowest) and 5
(highest) 
Score: ❤❤
 
 
 
 
 
Tena Stetler is a paranormal romance and cozy mystery author with an over-active imagination.  She wrote her first vampire romance as a tween, to the chagrin of her mother and the delight of her friends. With the Rocky Mountains outside her window, Tena sits at her computer surrounded by a wide array of paranormal creatures telling her their tales. Colorado is her home; shared with her husband of many moons, a brilliant Chow Chow, a spoiled parrot and a forty-year-old box turtle.  Any winter evening, you can find her curled up in front of a crackling fire with a good book, a mug of hot chocolate and a big bowl of popcorn. 

 

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September 7, 2016 · 5:00 am

Curse of the Gargoyles by Rebecca Chastain (Book Review)

 
Mika was trying to save a gargoyle, not doom the world…
 

Mika Stillwater isn’t known for her skills with combat magic. As a gargoyle healer, she spends her days mending broken appendages and curing illnesses in the living-quartz bodies of Terra Haven’s gargoyles. But when a squad of the city’s elite Federal Pentagon Defense warriors requests her assistance in freeing a gargoyle ensnared in a vicious invention, Mika jumps into the fray.

No one could have predicted that her involvement would ignite a chain reaction set to destroy the city, the world, and magic itself.

Brimming with epic magic and loveable gargoyles, Curse of the Gargoyles is the second story in the mesmerizing Gargoyle Guardian Chronicles trilogy. Fantasy fans young and old will delight in this highly original world and exciting, action-packed adventure.

 
 
 
(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 

 
If you’re in search of a book that’ll have non-stop, nail-biting action, then you should pick up Curse of the Gargoyles. It is worth every damn penny spent on it. 
 
From beginning to end, Rebecca will have you on the edge of your seat. She’ll also have you rooting for the gargoyles and wishing for just one more chapter. 
 
Of course, you know the good guys won but, seriously, what a helluva ride to the emotional finale. 
 
If I had only one wish, I would’ve had Marcus and Mika share a celebratory kiss. Just a small peck or two. 
 
There’s always next time……. 
 
Until then, I again encourage you to purchase this wonderfully constructed scifi/fantasy masterpiece. TODAY!! 

 

Heart Rating System:

1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 

Score: ❤❤❤❤

 
 
 
 
 

Rebecca Chastain is the international bestselling author of the Madison Fox, Illuminant Enforcer series and the Gargoyle Guardian Chronicles, among others works. She has found seven four-leaf clovers to date, won a purebred Arabian horse in a drawing, and once tamed a blackbird for a day. Writing stories designed to amuse and entertain has been her passion since she was eleven years old. She lives in Northern California with her wonderful husband and three bossy cats.

Website: http://www.rebeccachastain.com
Newsletter: http://www.rebeccachastain.com/fantasy-newsletter/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebeccachastainnovels
Twitter: @Author_Rebecca or https://twitter.com/Author_Rebecca
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5660379.Rebecca_Chastain

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