Sarah Walker is a successful business owner, still recovering from a failed relationship, but seemingly healthy in all respects. While on a business tSarah Walker is a successful business owner, still recovering from a failed relationship, but seemingly healthy in all respects. While on a business trip, she witnesses a disturbing scene between a mother and her young daughter at an airport. It’s clear the mother is frazzled but not enough to excuse her treatment of the little girl in the red dress, hair bow and shoes. Not long after, Sarah discovers the little girl again during a trip to a Montessori school to pitch business and follows her home, just to make certain her life is better than what she first witnessed. Unfortunately, it’s not and Sarah and 5-year old Emma both make a decision that permanently alters their lives and that of many others.
I began this story knowing that Sarah takes Emma but couldn’t believe there would be any circumstances where I would condone her actions. Incredibly, I found myself rooting for Sarah and Emma but also felt compassion for Amy, Emma’s mother, despite her horrible parenting. There are a host of issues presented in this story, none of them explored in any real depth but enough to stimulate thought provoking inquiry. You see society passing harsher judgment on the mothers in this story while the enabling fathers seem to get a pass. The story provides quite a bit of background on both Sarah and Amy, providing some insights and contrasts into and between the two women.
This was a Traveling Friends group book selection that generated a robust discussion, raising some provocative points of view I hadn’t considered. One dealt with how tough women are on other women as parents, maybe reflecting their own insecurities. While the ending left a lot of dangling resolutions, I enjoyed the book for challenging paradigms about parenting, child abductions and female/male stereotypes. It doesn’t provide a lot of answers but it made me think and left me to my imagination about the story’s outcome.
(I received an advance copy from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review)
Merged review:
Sarah Walker is a successful business owner, still recovering from a failed relationship, but seemingly healthy in all respects. While on a business trip, she witnesses a disturbing scene between a mother and her young daughter at an airport. It’s clear the mother is frazzled but not enough to excuse her treatment of the little girl in the red dress, hair bow and shoes. Not long after, Sarah discovers the little girl again during a trip to a Montessori school to pitch business and follows her home, just to make certain her life is better than what she first witnessed. Unfortunately, it’s not and Sarah and 5-year old Emma both make a decision that permanently alters their lives and that of many others.
I began this story knowing that Sarah takes Emma but couldn’t believe there would be any circumstances where I would condone her actions. Incredibly, I found myself rooting for Sarah and Emma but also felt compassion for Amy, Emma’s mother, despite her horrible parenting. There are a host of issues presented in this story, none of them explored in any real depth but enough to stimulate thought provoking inquiry. You see society passing harsher judgment on the mothers in this story while the enabling fathers seem to get a pass. The story provides quite a bit of background on both Sarah and Amy, providing some insights and contrasts into and between the two women.
This was a Traveling Friends group book selection that generated a robust discussion, raising some provocative points of view I hadn’t considered. One dealt with how tough women are on other women as parents, maybe reflecting their own insecurities. While the ending left a lot of dangling resolutions, I enjoyed the book for challenging paradigms about parenting, child abductions and female/male stereotypes. It doesn’t provide a lot of answers but it made me think and left me to my imagination about the story’s outcome.
(I received an advance copy from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review)...more
Former Marine and sniper Blake Ellis is tagged to make an in-person request to recruit former Marine Jordyn BridgerOriginally posted at Blue Mood Café
Former Marine and sniper Blake Ellis is tagged to make an in-person request to recruit former Marine Jordyn Bridger to join the task force as their resources are being stretched thin. Blake was her recently deceased brother’s best friend and is extremely close to her family. She’s been in love with him for years but their last encounter at her brother’s funeral left her hurt and angry. Though she’s perfect for the team, Jordyn knows that she’ll be tested emotionally by working with Blake and having to hide feelings that won’t be reciprocated.
Meanwhile, tracking terrorist Malik Hassani has taken on new meaning following a devastating attack on US soil. The team heads to Pakistan where the tension, danger and suspense ratchets up to new heights. The action is dangerous and exciting, illustrating the best aspects of this series as the scene descriptions are painfully accurate and well written when the operation leads them to Afghanistan. I could see the landscape and caves vividly as well as the execution of the attacks. It was exciting and scary, giving you a strong sense of how that war looks and feels.
Blake and Jordyn’s relationship was always in the background, moving to the forefront when it felt natural to do so. It was lovely how they finally realized they were on the same page about their feelings, excepting Blake’s guilt about seeing his best friend’s sister. No insta-love here as these two have known each other since childhood. Their actions in the midst of a serious operation were professional despite their feelings.
I enjoyed all aspects of this story and it was very close to the level of the first book in this series. The next book is set up perfectly and I’m looking forward to what has to put Alex Rycroft, the enigmatic leader of the task force, in the spotlight.
Former Marine and sniper Blake Ellis is tagged to make an in-person request to recruit former Marine Jordyn Bridger to join the task force as their resources are being stretched thin. Blake was her recently deceased brother’s best friend and is extremely close to her family. She’s been in love with him for years but their last encounter at her brother’s funeral left her hurt and angry. Though she’s perfect for the team, Jordyn knows that she’ll be tested emotionally by working with Blake and having to hide feelings that won’t be reciprocated.
Meanwhile, tracking terrorist Malik Hassani has taken on new meaning following a devastating attack on US soil. The team heads to Pakistan where the tension, danger and suspense ratchets up to new heights. The action is dangerous and exciting, illustrating the best aspects of this series as the scene descriptions are painfully accurate and well written when the operation leads them to Afghanistan. I could see the landscape and caves vividly as well as the execution of the attacks. It was exciting and scary, giving you a strong sense of how that war looks and feels.
Blake and Jordyn’s relationship was always in the background, moving to the forefront when it felt natural to do so. It was lovely how they finally realized they were on the same page about their feelings, excepting Blake’s guilt about seeing his best friend’s sister. No insta-love here as these two have known each other since childhood. Their actions in the midst of a serious operation were professional despite their feelings.
I enjoyed all aspects of this story and it was very close to the level of the first book in this series. The next book is set up perfectly and I’m looking forward to what has to put Alex Rycroft, the enigmatic leader of the task force, in the spotlight....more
Connor O’Leary had a tough upbringing and it took him some time to find his path. He followed his friend, Jack Bailey, to Shadow Creek but now his pasConnor O’Leary had a tough upbringing and it took him some time to find his path. He followed his friend, Jack Bailey, to Shadow Creek but now his past has somewhat caught up to him. A casual relationship has produced a baby girl whose mother abandoned her, literally, on his doorstep. Hayley Thomson is at a crossroads after surviving an abusive marriage. She wants to continue teaching but her only full time opportunity will take her away to another town in a few months. When Connor reaches out to her friends for help with the baby, Hayley steps up and volunteers to be the live-in nanny.
While the title of this book implies a level of frivolity, this story addresses some very serious issues. Hayley suffered emotional and physical abuse from her ex-husband and hasn’t fully recovered. Connor was abused as a child and had to leave high school to help his mother make ends close to being met, stunting his formal education and severely impacting his self worth. As these two come together to care for Connor’s daughter, they’re forced to confront their individual issues that are barriers to deepening a relationship between them. The conflicts are real, substantive and relevant, which made for a much more compelling story. I liked both of them and loved their path to healing. It wasn’t always pretty but it was honest.
I loved this book and am hooked on the series because of the weighty topics undertaken in each story. It’s one of misery and exultant triumph despite obstacles that feel insurmountable. Connor and Hayley didn’t always make the right choices in the moment but there weren’t any cliched behaviors either. I didn’t want the story to end and embraced those feel-good moments.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review)...more
Molly Mayberry left Shadow Creek nine years ago, inexplicably breaking up with the love of her life, Ben Matthews, by telling him an awful lie. Now shMolly Mayberry left Shadow Creek nine years ago, inexplicably breaking up with the love of her life, Ben Matthews, by telling him an awful lie. Now she’s returned as the hospital’s new pediatrician, both reluctant and anxious to face him, knowing he probably still resents her betrayal. Ben is a captain in the Shadow Creek Fire Department, looking to be promoted to chief soon by the man currently in that role who’s ready to retire. However, he’s looking for someone more settled and less inclined to take high risks. When Ben’s brother unexpectedly announces that Molly and he (Ben) have not only reconciled but are engaged, both decide to continue the ruse until Ben gets the promotion and his mother’s health improves.
This is a sweet story that served up some extremely serious themes. Molly’s secret is shocking and there were far more devastating impacts than at first perceived. I was drawn into a story with many more layers than I’d anticipated, which made this a page turner. The title suggests a certain frivolity that’s just not here (thankfully). I’d trusted the author to deliver as she’s done with the other books in this series and she came through. Ben and Molly are complex characters beneath the surface and their issues don’t have easy resolutions. Their families play pivotal roles, which added many more layers. I liked that it evoked a wide range of emotions to keep me engaged.
I very much enjoyed the story, though there were a couple of dangling plot issues involving secondary characters that weren’t more fully explored. It ends with a cliffhanger involving one of them so I’m hoping I don’t have a long wait for the next book. 3.5 stars
(I received an advance copy from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review)...more
Firefighters Anne Ashburn and Danny Maguire are now at the wedding from Hell, still struggling with their now explosive attraction. The day of reckoniFirefighters Anne Ashburn and Danny Maguire are now at the wedding from Hell, still struggling with their now explosive attraction. The day of reckoning is upon them.
There’s a lot more going on in this second novella and I felt like I had a better sense of Danny and somewhat more of Anne. Things progressed rather quickly with some interesting tangents (and steam). It was a nice set up for their upcoming story because it is certainly to be continued. And the wedding couple is probably going to end up being in the marriage from Hell. Classic J. R. Ward!...more
One year ago, Matt Riley lost his brother, Chad, to a deadly fire. Both were firefighters and he watched his brother perReviewed at Blue Mood Café
One year ago, Matt Riley lost his brother, Chad, to a deadly fire. Both were firefighters and he watched his brother perish. As if that wasn’t bad enough, he had the horrible experience of having to tell his sister-in-law, Gracelyn her husband was gone. Matt made it his mission to support her and the two children during the next year, both sort of propping each other up when he tried to drown his sorrows and she struggled to move forward. Now on the occasion of the one-year anniversary of Chad’s death, their consolation turns to something much, much more.
The idea of a brother taking up with his brother’s wife isn’t a new one but it’s always intriguing and this one lives up to that expectation. Complicating matters is Matt having always been attracted to Gracelyn though he’d never, ever considered crossing that proverbial line. When their passion was unleashed, it was pretty combustible. These two were fearless in their feelings for each other but highly fearful of condemnation from family and colleagues. They had reason to be wary, especially of reactions from Matt’s mother, his ex-wife and their children. I thought this story got all these dynamics right especially if their relationships as aunt and uncle would transition to that of a stepparent. It’s complicated and I liked that these issues were front and center.
I enjoyed this story and felt the narrators captured the personalities of both Matt and Gracelyn. The pacing was great and I was very invested in the story. I wish we had more insight into what happened between Gracelyn and Matt in that past year as it would have made their relationship feel less like something instant. Otherwise, this worked very well for me. There were no easy answers and the resolutions felt realistic. A warning though...the steam level is off the charts!
(I received a complimentary copy from Caffeinated Services in exchange for an unbiased review)...more
Meet the McBride sisters who are preparing for Christmas at home in Scotland. Beth is married and a stay at home mother to two small children but contMeet the McBride sisters who are preparing for Christmas at home in Scotland. Beth is married and a stay at home mother to two small children but contemplating a return to an outside career. Oldest sister, Hannah, has a highly successful career that seems to keep her from the family but they believe she’s deliberately choosing to stay away. Both she and Beth live in New York but rarely see each other these days. The youngest sister, Posy, hasn’t strayed from home, helping their mother Suzanne run the local café and serving on the alpine rescue team. She’s getting itchy feet to spread her wings but doesn’t want to disappoint her parents by leaving.
I fell in love with this story and the McBride family. Mom Suzanne was counting on the holidays bringing the family together for the first time in two years but completely unaware of the conflicts her children were experiencing. Compounding all of that was the season being the anniversary of a tragic event that seems to have profoundly shaped all of them and continues to plague them. Each sister’s story was extremely interesting and combined just made for an intriguing experience. The event that had such a tremendous impact was revealed slowly, adding even more tension.
The narrator managed each character skillfully, including accents and dialects, creating distinctive individual identities. She added verve to a well written story that I just loved. It’s a delightful tale that deftly used the Christmas season to add emphasis to important themes regarding family, communication and self worth. I don’t normally re-listen to books but I think I will with this one. It clicked on every level and I didn’t want it to end.
(I received an advance copy from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review)...more
Jax is part of a group of friends that have been together since childhood. For as long as he can remember, it’s been Maci & Malcolm and Luke & Skylar Jax is part of a group of friends that have been together since childhood. For as long as he can remember, it’s been Maci & Malcolm and Luke & Skylar and him. But before there was Luke & Skylar, it was Jax & Skylar as best friends. Now she’s back home in Florida for Christmas, having severed her 10-year relationship with Luke. Circumstances also worked out that she now has to stay with Jax instead of Maci & Malcolm and she’s clearly shattered and done with Luke.
I was unprepared for how “big” this story turned out to be in terms of overall character development, plot and complexity. I still can’t believe this is a novella as it is so complete in every aspect that short stories rarely pull off. Jax has always loved Skylar and she had a crush on him as a pre-teen through high school. She ended up with Luke (you’ll have to read it to find out why) and they’ve been together since, living in Chicago. What further complicates the situation is Jax is a relationship consultant, leading seminars that guide women—and men—on how they should be cared for and nurtured by men. He’s breaking a serious friend code by even thinking of finally pursuing a relationship with Skylar.
This was a nicely layered story of three people in a complicated situation that will potentially have devastating impacts on all five friends and each other. I felt like I knew each of these people intimately and it was often difficult to choose sides with ease. I normally loathe love triangles but this story isn’t that. The group dynamics, individual behaviors and relationships are all examined and shifted. The drama is realistic and the emotional pain was palpable at times, though there were so many situations providing comic relief. There aren’t any villains, just five people who loved each other and now must adjust to a different relationship. It’s just an outstanding story.
(I received an advance copy from the author in exchange for an unbiased review)...more
Jane is working at an insurance company in Minneapolis as a low level clerk. But, that’s not who she really is. She’s taken 50 days of leave from her Jane is working at an insurance company in Minneapolis as a low level clerk. But, that’s not who she really is. She’s taken 50 days of leave from her real job in Kuala Lumpur as an import-export attorney to exact revenge on middle manager Steven Hepsworth. Why? You’ll need to read or listen to the book to find out.
I chose to listen to this story and was that ever the right decision! The narrator completely captured Jane, a woman you’re never quite sure if she’s a sociopath or just plain cleverly diabolical. One thing you always know is true is that she will exact revenge on Steven and it will be epic. She doesn’t do anything but be her authentic self in seducing the reader into feeling some affinity for her. Jane’s obviously bright but she's also witty, pretty funny and wickedly pragmatic. I felt guilty rooting for her but when you hear the story, it’s impossible to do otherwise.
It’s a credit to the writing that this character enthralls the reader so overwhelmingly and having a talented narrator made Jane three dimensional. I inhaled this book, not wanting to stop until I figured out what Jane had in store for Steven. If I were you, I’d grab some popcorn, find a comfy spot and enjoy the ride. This was a Traveling Friends group selection and I’m really glad it was chosen. I’ve been a big fan of Victoria Dahl and am now following her under this pseudonym. 4.5 stars...more
Addie Mayberry left her job as a head librarian to open a children’s bookstore and she’s turned it into something magical. When 8-year old Bella BarreAddie Mayberry left her job as a head librarian to open a children’s bookstore and she’s turned it into something magical. When 8-year old Bella Barrett wanders into the store, she and Addie develop an immediate bond. Her father, Drew Barrett, a highly successful surgeon, recently relocated to Shadow Creek, returning to his hometown to try and salvage his daughter’s childhood, which had been devoid of any meaningful parental attention. His marriage ended miserably with his ex-wife not even wanting shared custody of their child.
Don’t be fooled by the light-hearted cover as this story is steeped in serious issues. Drew’s neglect of his daughter was real and he’s working hard to turnaround that relationship. Addie had an extremely difficult childhood, the subject of cruel bullying for years and the target of a hypercritical and insensitive mother. That damage left indelible scars to her self esteem but not to her wonderful spirit. Her relationship with Bella is just heartwarming and goes a long way in guiding Drew’s sincere intentions in the right direction. Of course, it was inevitable that they’d be drawn to each other but theirs was an uneasy road.
I really loved this story as it dealt with some very tough issues not easily resolved. Bella was adorable and I liked how her innocence provided Drew a light towards a path to forgive himself and Addie a sense of self worth. Every story in this series deals with meaty issues and this was no different. I didn’t want this one to end.
(I received an advance copy from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review)...more
For five years, 20-year old Elspeth Douglas has pined over Brody Girvan, the rakish Laird of Invermackie. He’s also friends with her brother, Hamish, For five years, 20-year old Elspeth Douglas has pined over Brody Girvan, the rakish Laird of Invermackie. He’s also friends with her brother, Hamish, and Fergus Mackinnon’s cousin. Now, she’s decided that it’s time to put childish feelings behind her and move on. Brody, however, has spent the past year taking stock of himself and isn’t pleased with what he’s discovered. He decides it’s time to put aside his irresponsible behavior and pursue a life of more substance. When he’s invited to Fergus’ annual Christmas gathering at Achnasheen Castle, his attention turns to young Elspeth and he’s doubly intrigued when she doesn’t immediately respond to his charming ways.
I loved how the tables were turned on Brody in this story. He’s a man who was accustomed to ladies always falling for his seductive behavior. Elspeth is the “afterthought” child in her family, perceived by them as a mouse because of her quiet nature and bookish tendencies. She’s come into her own, feeling more confident now that she’s let go of her fascination with this man. Brody had to work hard to overcome his reputation and prove his worth. I also loved how Elspeth asserted herself not only to Brody but her family while staying true to the norms of the era.
This was a delightful story with the Christmas season as the backdrop serving to make it even more festive. Elspeth is a wonderfully designed character and Brody the perfect man to highlight her strengths. His transformation was also heartwarming as he struggled to get friends, family and Elspeth to see his heart and get beyond the well-earned opinions of him. There are beautiful themes illustrated in this story, which made it even more interesting.
(I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an unbiased review)...more
Rory Campbell, Spencer Hartley and Jack Rothman are in a polyamorous relationship. Their union is further distinguished as Jack is a Dominant and RoryRory Campbell, Spencer Hartley and Jack Rothman are in a polyamorous relationship. Their union is further distinguished as Jack is a Dominant and Rory and Spencer are his submissives. This is a new discovery for Rory and Spencer while Jack has freely expressed and explored his sexuality for quite some time. They’ve now been together ten months and Rory is planning her wedding to Spencer and commitment to Jack by also taking his name. Meanwhile, Jack’s new business is in trouble, not because of his competency but due to some really dark elements.
This story is fascinating on so many levels. First, the Dom/sub relationship is portrayed so authentically, distinguishing the behaviors inside and outside of the bedroom. Yes, sexual norms are on full display, erotic and sensual, but what was more enlightening were the everyday dynamics between the three. Next, the dark forces that descended on Jack’s company triggered much more than a typical reaction in him. He’s a Dominant and he has the added desperation of performing in that role as caretaker for his submissives. It drives many of the decisions he makes to protect them within the context of that role. And lastly, their unusual relationship is always subject to judgment by family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and others. The reactions were diverse, ranging from being fully supportive to estrangement or outright rejection. It was interesting to consider the many ways this type of relationship is impacted in everyday life.
This is a duet narration using four performers. I’ve come to love this format, especially when all three characters are interacting with each other. The performance was excellent and the narrators were excellent in distinguishing their characters, too.
There was a lot of tension and suspense related to Jack’s business issues, quite scary in fact. I was riveted by this part of the story. I also enjoyed the family drama as it gave me lots of insight into how Rory, Spencer and Jack were shaped by the people who raised them. While the sexual scenes were highly erotic and sensual, they didn’t eclipse the heart of the story, which was the strength and depth of the emotional bonds between the three. There were so many layers and this is one of the best polyamorous stories I’ve read in a long time.
(I received an advance copy from the author in exchange for an unbiased review)...more
Garrett Hollis had it all as a sixteen year old athlete in small town Eden Valley. He was handsome and popular with a bright future ahead of him. He aGarrett Hollis had it all as a sixteen year old athlete in small town Eden Valley. He was handsome and popular with a bright future ahead of him. He and Devlyn Drake have known each other since they were five years old and she’s secretly crushed on him ever since. When beautiful Sheena reluctantly accompanies her family to the town for the summer, she hones in on Garrett right away, thus beginning an intense relationship that ends with a pregnancy that shattered his life. Sheena gave birth to Mia and walked away that same day, leaving Garrett to raise his daughter on his own. He’s now 34-years old and Mia has just graduated from high school and headed for college.
Garrett devoted his life to his daughter from the day she was born, with Devlyn being a major fixture in their lives. The story is told from Garrett and Devlyn’s points of view and that made such a difference. Without both perspectives providing clarity, their long-term friendship without benefits may have seemed highly improbable but it made perfect sense given the small town community, his total commitment to his daughter and her absolute fear of ruining their friendship. I loved their relationship and how it slowly (and I mean slowly!) transitioned to something more. There’s something beautiful about two friends who love and respect each other deeply changing the direction to intimacy. Devlyn’s feelings never wavered and Garrett was the one most surprised by the awakening of his latent feelings for her. The angst she later experienced was natural given the human condition and was realistically portrayed.
I really loved this story and especially Devlyn who loved both Garrett and Mia fiercely and unselfishly. While it was primarily Garrett’s story to tell, the heart of it belonged to Devlyn. The conflicts, family dynamics and resolutions were deftly addressed without a lot of unnecessary drama and with an authenticity I found refreshing. Prescott Lane is one of my favorite authors who writes the most touching standalone stories, normally in the new adult genre so I was surprised to see her branch out and tackle older subjects and more complex issues. Once I started, I didn’t want to let go. Sometimes you only need look at what’s right in front of you to find what you’ve been looking for.
(I received an advance copy from the author in exchange for an unbiased review) ...more
Claire Tierney is an NSA analyst who found herself in a security intelligence situation after she agreed to get some information for her ex-boyfriend,Claire Tierney is an NSA analyst who found herself in a security intelligence situation after she agreed to get some information for her ex-boyfriend, Gage Wallace, an operative for Titanium Security. Her discovery triggered the need for a joint task force to investigate their findings and now they’re both assigned to the project. And because she’s potentially a target, Gage is also tasked with protecting her until the threat is neutralized. He’s still wanting a relationship. Claire...not so much.
I really liked Gage and respected Claire. Her angst, however, was terribly annoying. While I understood her reasons for walking away from the relationship six months ago, it’s how she did it that was perplexing. Her reactions to them being thrust together again professionally felt immature and their differences seemed like they could have been resolved with one conversation. That being said, I did like their chemistry. I also enjoyed the continuing story arc from the first book. Including the terrorist’s point of view made the story more sinister and amped up the suspense.
While the identity of the orchestrator of the threat is still unresolved, the immediate danger was satisfactorily concluded. I enjoyed the story overall, liked the romance but didn’t love it. The first book was non-stop action but this one had much less focus on suspense, which was a disappointment. 3.5 stars...more
This series has a continuing story arc and should be read in order.
The task force team is forced to move again after their safe house was compromised.This series has a continuing story arc and should be read in order.
The task force team is forced to move again after their safe house was compromised. Zahra Gill has moved to her own place but when someone shows up late one night and creates a disturbance, Titanium Security Agent Sean Dunphy decides to camp out until the threat is resolved. Both have strong attractions to each other but Zahra has kept him at a distance and it’s obvious she’s guarding the secrets of her past. However, it soon becomes clear that, for now, Zahra is the focus of the terrorist threat and there’s a serious leak within NSA.
The set up for this story began in the last book so I was looking forward to learning more about Zahra as it was clear she suffered some awful trauma in her past. I liked how we were provided the latest terrorist operative’s point of view as it ratcheted up the tension when the team was unaware there was trouble brewing. While most of the earlier part of the book tilted towards the romance, the last third is all action and suspense.
I really enjoyed the story, especially the second half where I found it difficult to put the book down. Zahra and Sean’s romance worked, too, as there wasn’t any game playing and their relationship was sensual and honest. The identity of the NSA leak is also disclosed and I’m glad that’s resolved. The action was as exciting as I found the first book, filled with realistic outcomes. I’m still enjoying the series and am looking forward to what’s next for the team....more
Ethan Carter is a soon to be single father of two young children trying to manage their care and his ranch near Austin, Texas. His mother is helping oEthan Carter is a soon to be single father of two young children trying to manage their care and his ranch near Austin, Texas. His mother is helping out with his children but the demands of a toddler and a 4-year old is proving too much. Tori Duran needs a job since she detonated her life a year ago after a relationship that soured in the worst way. When her brother-in-law recommends her to be the nanny to his friend Ethan’s children, she reluctantly pursues it as it will put her near her very pregnant sister. However, Ethan is also reluctant once he takes a look at the very appealing Tori.
This is such a great story. After a very rocky start, Ethan and Tori work well together as a team in the care and nurturing of the children. It’s not long before their relationship evolves and that care and nurturing extends to each other. Both have recently emerged from bad unions and are wary of moving into another too quickly but these two really are well suited. There’s lots of humor, family drama and romantic moments, so very well written and delivered. The pacing is flawless as the story moves from one scene to another with ease. I adored Tori who has a big heart, a quick wit and a propensity for getting into trouble, unintentionally of course. Ethan is honorable to a fault and is a devoted father, working tirelessly to keep everything together. You just couldn’t help liking each of them individually and rooting for them as a couple.
I’m thrilled that I agreed to listen to this story as both narrators seem to capture the essence of Ethan and Tori’s personalities while effectively managing the other characters nicely. I especially liked how Tori was portrayed, delivering her self-deprecating lines in a way that endeared me even more to the character. This was a wonderful reading experience and now I need to go back and listen to the first connected story, Shameless.
(I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review)
First, this isn’t a series you read out of order. It has a continuing story arc and this book picks up where the first ends. Nevertheless, I’ll keep tFirst, this isn’t a series you read out of order. It has a continuing story arc and this book picks up where the first ends. Nevertheless, I’ll keep this spoiler free.
Gwen Proctor has to leave Stillhouse Lake to protect her family from the long arm of a powerful network of online trolls who go way beyond empty threats and harassment. They’ve now found a way to shred her credibility with her own network of friends and family, which was already a very short list.
This truly is a thriller that affects you psychologically and emotionally. Gwen is one of the strongest and most formidable characters I’ve encountered. Her commitment to her children and her selflessness was truly admirable. Gina, the woman Melvin Royal married, no longer exists and I’m certain no one was prepared for Gwen. The story includes narratives from both children this time, as well as Sam and Gwen, making this much more intriguing. It has a slow build for the first half and then rockets into warp speed through the end.
It felt like two different types stories but the second half needed the first to create its foundation. It was über scary and exhilarating at times, heartbreaking at others and the writing was just brilliant. The ending will take your breath away. This was a Traveling Friends read, even though I was a little slower to finish than the rest of the group....more
Calling Hazel Bradford a free spirit is an understatement of an understatement. She’s impulsive, lacks verbal filters and reflects her personality in Calling Hazel Bradford a free spirit is an understatement of an understatement. She’s impulsive, lacks verbal filters and reflects her personality in her design choices. When she first met Josh Im in college, she was awed by him but their first encounter was memorable for all the wrong reasons. It’s now ten years later and they meet again in surprising circumstances but this time become fast friends.
I’m a fan of friends-to-lovers stories and this one is best in class. Hazel is a force and her antics were more than entertaining. Josh is a steadying factor who is almost polar opposite of her but has an appreciation for her uninhibited nature. When his romance falls apart, Hazel goes on a mission to get him back in the game and becomes his fiercest protector and friend. I loved their relationship as best friends and how it evolved, slowly without guile or subterfuge. It was fun being a voyeur and recognizing what they were creating before it occurred to them.
It was a delightful story that I was sorry to see end. Both of the narrators captured their characters’ personalities (though the male version of Hazel was quite a bit off). The epilogue was really wonderful, capping off an already great story. This author continues to be an auto read (listen) and I even started this one without even reading the book description. That’s how sure I was that this was going to be a good time. 4.5 stars...more
Charlotte Walsh is a high-powered tech executive living in San Francisco, married and the mother of 5-year old twins, Ella & Rose, and 2-year old AnniCharlotte Walsh is a high-powered tech executive living in San Francisco, married and the mother of 5-year old twins, Ella & Rose, and 2-year old Annie. Following the historic 2016 election, she decides to run for the US Senate in her home state of Pennsylvania where she still has family and property. She moves her family there while she puts together her team and begins her campaign.
What this story is NOT is whether Charlotte wins. It’s about the realities for women running for political office in today’s toxic environment and whether Charlotte WANTS to win, is she willing to do what’s necessary to win. The stakes are incredibly high, both the potential rewards and the toll taken on family, friends and relationships. While I thought I knew what the challenges would possibly be, my imagination wasn’t quite broad enough to encompass the realities. Charlotte brings everything that’s made her successful in business to the campaign, as well as those insecurities unique to our gender...things men are never forced to consider or manage. Though her husband now stays home full time, expectations are different for working mothers.
I really liked Charlotte, even when she wasn’t likable as she’s a wonderfully designed character. She’s far from perfect but her exceptional skills, keen mind and humanity distinguishes her. This story is well written and kept me off balance from the onset. The author adeptly captures the insanity of our current politics, offering us relevant insights into what it takes for a woman to run today for any political office, especially a high profile one. The narrator consumed Charlotte, fitting into her skin and creating a vivid image of her in my mind while effectively portraying the other characters. The ending is provocative, perfectly fitting for the story. I’ll definitely be reading more by this author.
(I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review)...more
Anne Ashburn and Danny Maguire are both firefighters in the same company, now having to be part of the wedding partInteresting prelude to the series.
Anne Ashburn and Danny Maguire are both firefighters in the same company, now having to be part of the wedding party for Moose Miller, his best friend and roommate and her firefighter brother. Unfortunately, he’s marrying Bridezilla who’s also got some shade in her background. Adding to this toxic mix is Anne and Danny’s strong attraction to each other that they’re fighting hard to resist.
This was a nice tease, especially as I’m jumping right into the next novella. I like Anne, like Danny but that wedding and reception promises truly to be the wedding from Hell....more