Book Review: I'LL CALL YOU HOME (Enderlin Calling #2) by Sharon L. Clark

About the Book 

When her father is injured on the family horse ranch, Charlotte Trevino rushes home to Zearing, Texas, the small town she put in her rearview mirror years ago. Her brother and father insist that everything is under control, but the recent odd - and costly - run of bad luck on the ranch tells a different story. The books haven’t been in the black for months, they’re plagued by equipment troubles and supply chain failures, and their neighbors are selling their property to a shady businessman who won’t take ‘no’ for an answer. But Charlotte refuses to give up and sets out to save the ranch, however she can. Despite being confronted by the painful past she tried to leave behind: her high school sweetheart, Jason Archer. 

Jason has a calm and comfortable life in Zearing. He works for his uncle as a respected financial analyst, takes care of his Alzheimer’s-ridden mother, and spends downtime with friends. But then one day the whirlwind known as Charlotte blows back into town and everything is turned upside down. He’s never forgiven himself for breaking her heart, but he’s never gotten over her, either. Determined to earn her trust once more, he offers to help save the ranch, and the lingering heat between them bursts into flame whenever they’re together. 

It soon becomes clear that her family’s trouble is far more than simple bad luck. When Charlotte starts to inch the ranch back toward financial stability, the bad luck turns to threats and near-misses, and the trouble draws closer to home. Jason is right by her side, lending a hand as they grow closer and closer. But secrets come to light and Jason is torn between the woman he never stopped loving and the family that has given him everything. As the danger intensifies, the question is no longer if Charlotte can save the ranch…but will she survive if she does.

Review

Charlotte has rarely returned home since leaving for college. Her return, her father in the hospital, and her first love affect her emotionally. Still, she's determined to save the ranch and the horses she loved. Then there's Jason. It's awkward and tense as more "accidents" occur immediately followed by pressure to sell.  

Charlotte is a great main character, a determined young woman who intends to save the ranch no matter what. She's dealing with conflicts, threats, and understanding what went wrong after high school graduation. Jason is also key to the story and not sure he can let her get away again. The story is well written and the pacing kept me reading. It's the second in the series, and it didn't matter that I hadn't read the first one. I'd recommend this book to those who enjoy a good romantic suspense with second chances and a HEA for all.

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book. This has not affected the content of my review in any way. 

AMAZON

About the Author 

Sharon L. Clark is a romantic suspense author hailing from Des Moines, Iowa, where she never outgrew her enormous imagination and continues to feed both her hopeless-romantic heart and her villain-wannabe brain. 

An avid reader from a very young age, Sharon still enjoys living vicariously through the heroines in adventure novels, falling in love again and again through romances, and getting the tar scared out of her now and again. After attending the University of Northern Iowa Sharon met her husband, Andrew, and together they have raised three pretty cool humans and a handful of dogs. It wasn’t until she was nearly an empty nester that she decided to focus on writing, and let other people see what goes on inside her head: the good, the bad, and the bizarre.

I’ll Call You Mine is her debut novel, but you can check out her short stories and other musings on her website or her social channels. She also has a collection of short stories and serials at Channillo. She is represented by Amy Brewer through Metamorphosis Literary Agency.

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Book Review: HIDDEN CURRENTS (Lantern Beach Mysteries Book 1) by Christy Barritt

About the Book

You can take the detective out of the investigation, but you can't take the investigator out of the detective. 

A notorious gang puts a bounty on Detective Cady Matthews’s head after she takes down their leader, leaving her no choice but to hide until she can testify at trial. But her temporary home across the country on a remote North Carolina island isn’t as peaceful as she initially thinks. 

Living under the new identity of Cassidy Livingston, she struggles to keep her investigative skills tucked away, especially after a body washes ashore. When local police bungle the murder investigation, she can’t resist stepping in. But Cassidy is supposed to be keeping a low profile. One wrong move could lead to both her discovery and her demise. 

Can she bring justice to the island . . . or will the hidden currents surrounding her pull her under for good? 

 ***Hidden Currents is the first book in the six-book Lantern Beach Mystery series. Each book contains a standalone mystery, but there are overarching mysteries within the entire series.*** 

Review 

The "ice cream lady" in Lantern Beach living as Cassidy Livingston, is detective with a bounty on her head. She's in hiding and supposed to keep things low key. When a body washes ashore, she tries not to get involved - at least not in an obvious way, only she can't help but investigate. 

Christy Barritt's characters and setting are well-developed. The reader feels Cassidy's tug-of-war and she is very likable. Once she's all in, the pace picks up quickly, mixed with well-placed humor. This is a strong beginning to the new (to me at least) 6-book series. 

AMAZON 

About Christy Barritt

USA Today has called Christy Barritt's books "scary, funny, passionate, and quirky." 

A USA Today and Publishers Weekly best-seller, Christy writes both mystery and romantic suspense novels that are clean with underlying messages of faith. Her books have sold more than three million copies, one has been made into a TV movie, and another is being developed for a TV series. 

Christy's books have won the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery, have been twice nominated for the Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award, and have finaled for both a Carol Award and Foreword Magazine's Book of the Year. 

She's married to her prince charming, a man who thinks she's hilarious--but only when she's not trying to be. Christy's a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who's known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. 

Christy currently splits her time between the Virginia suburbs and Hatteras Island, North Carolina. She loves spending time with her husband, her two sons, and her four dogs. For more information, visit her website: www.christybarritt.com.

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Book Review: COLORADO K-9 RESCUE by Kathleen Donnelly

About the Book 

A kidnapper’s twisted game is on. 

And a trusty K-9 won’t let him succeed. 

Years after being abducted, Mckenna Parker’s worst nightmare has come true—her kidnapper is out on parole. And he’s after her again. Now an FBI victim specialist, she and her crisis canine, Mocha, have been assigned to a case with FBI agent Evan Knox. Together they must find two local girls who disappeared.

As passionate as Mckenna is about helping others, Evan is ambitious about his career. Both have sworn off love. But when Mckenna vanishes into the mountain wilderness, it’s Evan—with Mocha’s amazing help—who braves danger at all costs. 

Review 

Mckenna still hasn't overcome her own kidnapping but has dedicated herself to helping other survivors deal with the aftermath. Working with the FBI and her dog, Mocha, her first interaction with the grouchy and cold Agent Knox is when Mocha eats his sandwich. She hopes she never has to work with him. Of course when two girls are kidnapped, she is assigned to work with him. 

As the one survivor, Lily, tells her story of what happened, Mckenna relives her own experience as so many of the details match. Two weeks prior to this new kidnapping, the man found guilty of her kidnapping is paroled. Only Mckenna really believed it was him, back again. Now she and Agent Knox have to find him and try to put the pieces together. 

Donnelly crafted a believable, practical character who continues to be strong and fight her own battles in Mckenna. Similarly, Agent Knox's character is well-developed. This is well-written, excellently paced to keep this reader's interest, with tension and romance intermingled with the suspense. Donnelly did a great job of weaving the romance with the danger. I didn't figure out the kidnapper. Besides, who couldn't love a K-9 therapy dog like Mocha? 

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in the hopes that I would post an honest review. This has not affected the content of my review in any way. 

AMAZON

About the Author 

Award-winning author, Kathleen Donnelly is a handler for a private narcotics K-9 detection company. She enjoys using her experience to craft realism into her fictional stories. Kathleen loves the beauty of the mountains, which inspired her choice of setting for her series. She lives near the Colorado foothills with her husband and her four-legged co-workers. 

You can visit/follow Kathleen:

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Book Review: COWBOY WATCH (The Watchers Book 1) by Petie McCarty

The Watchers Series - Fallen angels seeking parole for their betrayal . . . 

Someone—or something—wants Kellen out of town . . . 

Kellen Brand’s inheritance comes as a monumental shock—a rundown farm in West Virginia she doesn’t want and one paroled Watcher all her own. Kellen’s eccentric mother had believed the Watchers to be fallen angels who sought penance by guarding chosen individuals who had lost their way. Seriously? A Watcher? Only her mother . . . 

Since Kellen vows no sane woman would choose to live in Riverside, she’s on a mission to dump the old farm fast and to the first buyer who comes along. Unfortunately for her, the only buyer is a resort developer, spurned by a townful of objectors and one handsome cowboy—her neighbor, Luke Thornton. Luke must block Kellen’s farm sale or risk exposing his own family’s secrets. He can ill afford his immediate and compelling attraction to his new neighbor. 

Someone is watching Kellen, but not who she thinks. Someone deadly and intent on scaring her out of town. Or worse. 

Luke faces a hellish choice. Step in and rescue Kellen from her threats, or stand by and watch to protect his family. . . 

Review 

Kellen arrives at the farm she inherited with her number one goal that of selling it and getting back to the city and her job. Her mother left her a cryptic note about a "watcher" keeping her safe. She's not sure what that means and deals with her goal. Only her first impression of the person pushing her to sell is negative and as she meets people in the small town, she learns the townspeople are very much against the sale. Enter Luke Thornton, who owns the adjoining property and strongly pushes her not to sell. Then she notices lights and shadows toward the mill. 

Cowboy Watch includes well-developed characters of Kellen and Luke, with sparks flying, as well as a number of bad guys and angels (or watchers). McCarty communicates the emotional side of Kellen's decisions and Luke's arguments - tissues recommended. The suspense builds - not only with regard to who is the watcher and who are the bad guys now fearful of what Kellen has seen - but with Kellen and Luke. A must read for those who enjoy romantic suspense without the heat. 

AMAZON

About the Author 

Petie spent a majority of her career at Walt Disney World—"The Most Magical Place on Earth"—where she loved working in the land of fairy tales by day and crafting her own romantic fairy tales by night, including her series, The Cinderella Romances. She eventually said goodbye to her "day" job to focus on her stories full-time. 

These days, Petie spends her time writing new tales for her Cinderella series, her new paranormal-romantic-suspense series, The Watchers, sequels to her Regency time-travel series, Lords in Time, and more contemporary romance standalones, along with her two previous releases—Any Fin For Love and Ambush in the Everglades. 

Petie shares her home on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee with her husband, a horticulturist/landscape designer who provided all technical background for Cinderella Busted, and an opinionated Nanday conure named Sassy, who made a cameo appearance in Christmas Watch, Book 2 of The Watchers series.

You can connect with Petie:

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Book Review: LOST HEART IN KING MANOR (Mysteries of the Heart Series) by Celeste Fenton

Romantic Suspense/Edgy Cozy Mystery 

1st in Series Setting – Dost Island (fictional) off the coast of Massachusetts 

Publisher ‏: ‎ Independently Published 

Publication date ‏ : ‎ April 24, 2025 

About the Book 

At 45, Gabby Heart isn’t looking for drama—just quiet days on Dost Island running her village gift shop, teaching art, and keeping her past tucked safely away. But when her mother suffers a sudden health crisis, Gabby is pulled into a storm of family secrets, betrayal, and a dark legacy buried within the walls of the once-grand King Manor. 

What was supposed to be a safe place for her mother’s recovery becomes the backdrop for a chilling mystery. Strange incidents begin to unfold, and it becomes clear: someone inside King Manor has a deadly agenda. As a hurricane traps Gabby inside the sprawling estate, she’s forced to work alongside two very different men—her maddeningly attractive officemate and a charming new neighbor, both hiding dark secrets. 

One man may want her heart. The other may want her dead. 

But can she trust her instincts before it’s too late? 

Review 

Gabby is dealing with her daughter Val moving across the country for college when she gets a call that her mother fell. Gabby rushes home to help her mother while still trying to keep her own work afloat. A second incident, with Gabby and her mother saved because of the cat, Gabby is at her wits end. There's an opening at ACHE, a senior rehab facility and her mother could recover there with the best of care. At least that's the promise.

ACHE has taken over the King Manor, with all it's glam, history, and tales of secret treasure. The director of ACHE, Beth, is her mother's neighbor and her mother is recovering there as well. The two men edging into her life? Rick and Jay. Rick has secrets and Jay is a little too smooth.

When first a tornado and then hurricane hits the area, two residents are injured among other strange occurrences and the discovery of tunnels, the tension mounts. Both Rick and Jay are constant companions to Gabby but she's not sure she can trust either of them.  

This is an interesting and engaging tale, with lots of unexpected twists and turns. What secrets is Rick hiding? What's Jay's endgame? The pacing is strong and the reader is carried along to the final conclusion. This is a great start to what should be an interesting series.

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in the hopes that I would post an honest review. This has not affected the content of my review in any way. 

Companion Guide to Lost Heart in King Manor: 

An inside look (Mysteries of a Heart Series)

Step deeper into the secrets of Dost Island with this richly illustrated companion to Lost Heart in King Manor, the first book in the Mysteries of a Heart series. Explore the island’s storm-swept cliffs, charming village life, and shadowy past through exclusive character profiles, behind-the-scenes insights, maps, photographs, and bonus content that brings Gabby Heart’s world to life. 

Meet the unforgettable residents—from the sharp-witted Jay Laird and enigmatic Rick Payne, to the wise and mysterious women of the Heart family—each with their own stories, scars, and secrets. This companion is your invitation behind the curtain. But be warned… On Dost Island, even the quietest corners have something to hide. 

About the Author 

I have an M.Ed. and Ph.D. in education and have worked in higher education for over thirty-years. A former educator and lifelong reader, I began writing seriously at age 60. No one is more surprised than me, that in retirement, I found reward and occupation as an author. 

My writing is fueled by a lifelong love of mystery and a fascination with the complexities of the human heart. As a widow, mother of adult twin sons, proud grandmother, dog lover, and semi-retired educator, I believe I have enough real-world experience to weave imagination with insight to create stories rich with emotion and suspense. My work blends romance, mystery, and heart—with healthy doses of humor and hope. I feel passionate about helping others realize that creativity doesn’t have an expiration date.  

When I’m not writing, reading, or plotting another plot twist, I like to explore small towns across America—setting out solo for month-long adventures much to the awe (and occasional alarm) of family and friends. My latest obsessions include escape rooms, mastering the perfect miter cut for a DIY bathroom remodel, training my cavalier spaniel to do a high five, and making the impossible decision of where to travel next.

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Book Review: SILENT FALL (Sanders Brothers Book 2) by Barbara Freethy

About the Book 

Dylan Sanders is attending a wedding in the mountains when his trip takes a terrible turn. A former lover appears out of nowhere, demands a private conversation, and lures him into the woods, then leaves him there, drugged and disoriented. The next morning, the woman has disappeared, and Dylan is accused of her murder. 

Catherine Hilliard, a beautiful psychic haunted by her own dark past, is reluctant to offer up her cryptic visions to help skeptical Dylan figure out what's going on, but she can't leave her best friend's brother-in-law on his own ... or deny the powerful, inexplicable connection between them. 

Review 

As usual, Freethy has written a romantic mystery of high calibre.

There is suspense, unexpected twists and turns, a murder to be solved and a romance. It will keep you guessing (and reading) until the end. I liked the growing relationship between Dylan and Catherine.

Needless to say, the pacing of the story is fast-paced and the story is well-written. This is the second in the Sanders Brothers series. I didn't read the first one in the series, and I had no trouble following along. This one goes in the "Books Worth Reading" category.

AMAZON

About the Author 

Barbara Freethy is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of 75 novels ranging from mystery thrillers to romantic suspense, contemporary romance, and women's fiction. Barbara has sold more than 11 million copies of her books worldwide. In 2014 she was named the Amazon KDP bestselling Author of ALL TIME! 

Twenty-eight of her titles have appeared on the NY Times and USA Today bestseller lists. Barbara is known for writing emotional, page-turn

ing novels that often include family drama and always have a surprising twist. 

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Looking for your next cozy?

Book Review: HOT SEAL MIDNIGHT MAGIC (SEALS in Paradise Series) by Teresa Reasor

About the Book

Navy SEAL Gage Fontenot is home for the first time in two years because his grandmother, who raised him, is in the hospital after a brutal assault. He has four weeks to get the lay of the land, find who’s responsible, and guarantee the attacker gets the punishment he deserves. When he’s met at the airport by Mia, the woman he jilted six years ago, his visit becomes much more complicated. Because his reasons for leaving New Orleans all lead back to her. 

Psychic Mia Blanchard knows there’s always a price to pay for the best things in life, but she’s shocked by the dramatic change in Gage. Gone is the lighthearted Cajun who played guitar in the New Orleans clubs. What has happened to make him cut himself off from his home and family? She needs to find out, because she can’t move on until she puts their past behind her. 

But there is more than their personal history in play. She sees danger ahead for them both. But Gage never believed in her gift in the past. How can she convince him to trust it now? 

Review 

Gage's first priority is his grandmother's safety, but seeing Mia brings back memories, guilt, and the pain. With his own sense that something's not right, when Mia has another of her episodes, he's more open to her gift. With his protective instincts and the love he still has for her he's determined nothing will happen to Mia or his grandmother. 

Reasor tells a tale that has all the markings of a second chance romance, all the while building the suspense that someone is out to get Mia, and Gage may be in danger as well. The characters are well-developed and I liked both Mia, Gage, and his grandmother. An enjoyable and engaging page-turner, the plot speeds up and intensifies as the story continues. 

AMAZON

About the Author New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Teresa Reasor was born in Southeastern Kentucky, but grew up a Marine Corps brat. The love of reading instilled in her in Kindergarten at Parris Island, South Carolina made books her friends during the many transfers her father's military career entailed. The transition from reading to writing came easily to her and she penned her first book in second grade. But it wasn't until 2007 that her first published work was released. 

After twenty-one years as an Art Teacher and ten years as a part-time College Instructor, she's now retired and living her dream as a full-time Writer. Her body of work includes both full-length novels and shorter pieces in many different genres, including Military Romantic Suspense, Paranormal Romance, Historical Romance and a Children's Book.

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Book Review: OPERATION PROTECTED ANGEL (Shepard Security Series Book 1) by Margaret Kay

Not a cozy.... more romantic suspense/military...

ABOUT THIS BOOK 

Angel Matthew’s day started like any other…until she ran into the armed man in the hallway at work. What came next was a blur, a hostage ordeal, a terrorist attack, explosions and gunfire, a fight for her life. Then she wakes with a head injury and finds herself in the custody of a group of armed men, who won’t disclose exactly who they are. One of them, the attractive and attentive Jackson is kind and Angel finds herself trusting him, falling for him. 

Shepherd Security recruits only the best. They can protect someone in trouble like no other because they work in the shadows, invisible, and outside the system where the rules don’t apply–just the oath they took. They don’t exist. That’s also why they can break any suspect and can get answers out of anyone accused. 

That’s when they’re called in, when someone must be protected at all costs, or when answers must be obtained, by any means necessary. Sometimes it’s not clear, though, is the person in their custody a witness or the perpetrator, a friendly or a foe, innocent or guilty as sin? Angel Matthews fits into this category–where exactly needs to be determined. 

Warning, this story is realistic, with adult language and content. It does contain one scene of violence and abuse, followed by healing and strength on the way to the HEA.

REVIEW 

Angel's plight is real and she goes from one terrifying situation to another as "guest" of those who rescued her but can't determine if she is friend or foe. Jackson is primary and is conflicted with his sense of duty and his more primal instincts. Tension mounts regarding the possible terrorists and questions of whether Jackson can still be effective.

A story of off-the-books warriors protecting the nation's security, the pace is quick, the tension is thick. The characters of Angel and Jackson are well-developed and add a romantic twist to the tale. As indicated in the warning, there is profanity and violence, and mild adult content, but all with a HEA. At least until the next assignment.  This is the first book in the Shepard Security series, a new series and author for me. 

AMAZON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Margaret Kay is a wife, a mother of two adult children, a grandmother, a pet lover who makes her own dog food from scratch, and is a writer of Military Romance Novels and other genres as well. Margaret's husband proudly served 8 years in the United States Navy. She's a veteran of more than a few deployments as the spouse who took care of the family while her military member served halfway around the world.

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Book Review: IT BEGAN WITH A LIE (Redemption #1) by Michele Pariza Wacek

A bit of romantic suspense this time...

About the Book

All Becca wanted was a fresh start. That wasn’t what she got.

Becca was sure the move from New York to Redemption, Wisconsin was exactly what her troubled family needed. A way to get her crumbling marriage back on track, and to bond with her difficult 16-year-old stepdaughter. 

But instead of a new beginning, Becca is thrust into a mysterious past she barely remembers. A past that includes the complications of interacting with her old teenage crush, Daniel, as well as living in her aunt's old house. 

A house with a violent past. A house the locals swear is haunted. But there's no such thing as ghosts. Right? 

So, could there be something even more sinister out to destroy them? 

And can Becca discover the truth before it’s too late? 

Review:

Becca, now Rebecca, moves back to Redemption 15 years after she almost died and a friend disappeared. Why? Because her husband tells her his law firm is in trouble and money is tight. She inherited the house she spent time in as a teen with her grandmother. Moving there will help them save money while he fixes things. Only she doesn't have any memory of that night and the house is haunted. Everyone knows that. And strange things are happening. 

The story is well-crafted and well-written. Rebecca, the wife of a talented attorney and new step-mom, shaped by her parents to not be the Becca that almost died is dealing with memories coming back - and things moved around, not where she left them. Thankfully, her friends Mia, Daphne, and Daniel are there to support her. Yes, I guessed at what might be happening, but not how it would all play out. The more I read, the more I had to finish reading this book. 

AMAZON

About Michele PW (Pariza Wacek):

A USA Today Bestselling, award-winning author, Michele taught herself to read at 3 years old because she wanted to write stories so badly. It took some time (and some detours) but she does spend much of her time writing stories now. Mystery stories, to be exact. They're clean and twisty, and range from psychological thrillers to cozies, with a dash of romance and supernatural thrown into the mix. If that wasn't enough, she posts lots of fun things on her blog, including short stories, puzzles, recipes and more, at MPWNovels.com.

Michele grew up in Wisconsin, (hence why all her books take place there), and still visits regularly, but she herself escaped the cold and now lives in the mountains of Prescott, Arizona with her husband and southern squirrel hunter Cassie. When she's not writing, she's usually reading, hanging out with her dog, or watching the Food Network and imagining she's an awesome cook. (Spoiler alert, she's not. Luckily for the whole family, Mr. PW is in charge of the cooking.)

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Book Review: ESCAPE FROM DEVIL'S DEN (Harlequin Romantic Suspense) by Bonnie Vanak

Romantic Suspense 

Setting – Florida and North Carolina 

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Harlequin Romantic Suspense (July 23, 2024) 

Mass Market Paperback ‏ : ‎ 272 pages 

ABOUT THE BOOK 

She’s found the perfect disguise… Until he uncovers the truth! 

FBI agent Jace Beckett goes undercover to infiltrate the motorcycle gang Devil’s Patrol. But he never expected to encounter his stunning former fiancée, Kara Wilmington, hanging around the criminal organization. 

The gorgeous businesswoman is determined to protect her property—and her family—when she finds out that her cousin is involved with the DP. But as Kara and Jace relentlessly pursue the DP’s ruthless jewel-theft ring, it’s not only Jace’s cover that’s at risk. It’s their lives… 

REVIEW 

Jace Beckett has gone to a great deal of trouble to be accepted by the DP. He's FBI with a military background. Cold and calculating in his quest to gain access to the mystery man, Marcus, who is a domestic terrorist and using the outlaw motorcycle gang to get what he needs. Only this job gets personal when he discovers his ex-fiancée, Kara, may be the next victim of the DP.

The story behind Kara and Jace is revealed in bits and pieces - the secrets they both withheld - as the tension rises in the DP. The story moves at a steady pace, with twists and turns, and suspicion abounds as to who they can trust. It kept my interest as I tried to figure out who was behind the threat and the target. It's well written and the characters, especially Kara and Jace, are well-developed. One or two surprises pop up. There is sexual content (limited, but there),so readers beware.

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in the hopes that I would post an honest review. This has not affected the content of my review in any way. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Bonnie Vanak is a multi-published author of paranormal, historical, and suspense romance novels. After a career in journalism, she became a writer for an international charity, traveling to poor countries like Haiti to write about issues affecting the poor. 

When the strain of her job demanded a diversion, she turned to her childhood dream of writing books. Bonnie lives in Florida with her husband and rescue dogs. 

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Book Review: FINLEY CREEK (BOOKS 1-3 - The Marshall Murders by Calle J. Brookes

I'll admit it. I binge read the first three books in this series. It would be hard to review them separately as they are intertwined. Undeniably, overlapping. These are romantic suspense, not cozy. They include violence, profanity...  

HER BEST FRIEND'S KEEPER (Finley Creek Book 1)

Ten years. Three months. Sixteen days. 

She hasn't felt safe in ten years, three months, and sixteen days.

As a teenager Gabby Kendall witnessed the execution of her best friend's family. Those images haunt her every day. 

Now... Now the killers are back. They know who she is, where she lives, and who her friends are. They know everything about her... He has the TSP to run, and a woman to protect... 

Elliot Marshall had lost almost his entire family when they'd been murdered ten years ago. Now he is back in Finley Creek, searching for the killers. Elliot isn't about to let anyone hurt the woman who had been his murdered sister's best friend. The only place she feels safe is next to him. But the price of that safety may be someone else close to her. Close to him. And one thing is clear: they can't lose someone else they love like that ever again... 

AMAZON

SHELTER FROM THE STORM (Finley Creek Book 2) 

Murder. Secrets. A killer still watching her... 

Brynna Beck has plans for her future. The Finley Creek Texas State Police is just a stepping stone for her. Nothing is going to sway her from her path--and she's stubborn enough to go after what she wants. When Brynna discovers new information on a ten-year-old murder case she gains the wrong sort of attention.

He wants answers... Former Texas Ranger Chance Marshall has spent ten years searching for the men who'd slaughtered his family. He has nothing more now than he had back then--until Brynna. She promises him the answers to his questions--if he promises to take her home to Finley Creek. To get the answers he needs, Chance will have to keep Brynna safe--while the storm rages around them. 

AMAZON

THE PRICE OF SILENCE (Finley Creek Book 3)

She's always been the Protector. That will never change. Melody Beck has always taken care of her younger sisters. Now that it really matters, she's failed. Her younger sister has just barely escaped a band of vicious killers.

All signs now point to the richest man in Texas being the mastermind behind the attacks. He is still out there. Coming for her sister. Melody is going to see he pays for what he did. But going after him means dealing with the one man she never wants to see again. The billionaire's son. The one man she's been trying so hard to forget. 

His father isn't a killer. He needs a way to prove it.  Houghton Barratt knows the media outlets reporting his father was involved in the Marshall Murders are lying. There is no way his father would have harmed an innocent family. 

The only way Houghton can fix this is by going after the woman accusing his father and convince her to tell the truth. Even if his own plans for her older sister aren't exactly on the up and up. 

The older Beck sister is his real target now. Melody is coming with him—whether she wants to or not. Houghton is right there in front of her before Melody can even begin to escape. Now, she is a hostage, a pawn in his game. A game he intends to win. 

But as Houghton tangles with Melody, the real mastermind is getting closer. Closer than they could imagine. Only this time he's focusing on Melody—and the sisters she'll do anything to protect. Houghton makes Melody a vow he would willingly die to keep: Melody will not be the price Houghton pays for his father…

AMAZON

Review

The setting is Finley Creek, Texas and Elliott Marshall has returned home to take over as the Chief for the Texas State Police - and to finally find the people who killed his parents, sister, and brother. As he walks through the TSP facilities, he recognizes on of two women working IT. Gabby Kendall. She'd been on the webcam with his sister when the murders occurred, pressed record, and called 9-1-1. Gabby is constantly afraid the killers will come after her. They've emailed her on and off over past 10 years. She only goes home and to work with her best friend, Brynna. They code and program and everything else for the forensic evidence section. 

Brynna has autism but is very intelligent. With Gabby's help (and Lacy's), she has created a program to validate video evidence - or to unalter it if it has been altered. She feels for her friend always afraid. She follows all the rules for signing out evidence and takes a copy of the video capturing the murder to test her program, when she goes to meet someone who wants to buy it from her.  Her program works and she unalters the video to reveal a 5th man. She finds out Chance Marshall, Elliott's brother, is in the same town and insists he drive her back to Finley Creek. On the way back, two cars plow into them and drag her out of the car, grabbing her laptop as well. Chance does his best to defend her and eventually they escape, with injuries. In the process, another man tries to help Brynna get away. She recognizes the man. 

Brynna and Chance are recovering, everyone is upset with Brynna's identification, and there are definite concerns that someone in the Finley TSP is corrupt. How else would they know she had taken a copy of the video clip? Elliott and Chance's father partnered with Beck - Brynna's father. Both the Marshall men recall seeing all the Beck redheads at their house, as well as Gabby. The oldest of the Beck daughters, Melody also was TSP before she was injured, and always protected her sisters, especially Brynna because of her special needs, as well as Gabby. Melody is still recovering, partially paralyzed, but insistent she will protect them. That Brynna identified the man when they were attacked as the Hadley Barrett - the richest man in Texas - didn't go over very well. Not only that, Houghton Barrett had been searching for Melody ever since they met and she walked out on him. 

It takes reading all three books to put the pieces together. The first book provides some of the background, the basics of the attack on Brynna and Chance, and a hint of the relationship between Melody and Houghton. Book 2 further expands Chance and Bryanna's parts and the rest of the Beck family. Book 3 is Melody and Houghton. With each book the five unknown men who killed the Marshalls is slowly whittled down to two and then none. 

Why'd I binge read them? They are well-written, with constant tension and action, twists and turns. The characters are well-crafted from Gabby still in fear for her life, Brynna with her autism, and the two Marshall brothers still unable to find resolution. Melody, Jillian, Syd, Carrie, and others add to the puzzle pieces. I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series!

Finley Creek Series

Her Best Friend's Keeper

Shelter From the Storm 

The Price of Silence 

If the Dark Wins 

Wounds That Won't Heal 

Hope for Finley Creek 

As the Night Ends 

Before the Rain Breaks 

Lost in the Wind 

Walk Through the Fire 

We All Sleep Alone 

Stand Next to Me 

About the Author

C.J. Brookes lives in central Indiana with her husband of fifteen years, their ten-year-old daughter, four-year-old lump of a beagle, elderly but diabolically clever border collie, evil border collie puppy, four demanding ducklings, one garden snail who lives in her child's bathroom, and a rogue cardinal named Carl and his wife Carla. Recently, they added a garden toad, Neville Toadbottom, to their tiny zoo. 

Best known for her romantic suspenses, she has been writing for more than twenty years, and has more than seventy novels and novellas published.

Book Review: SEAL'S CODE (Coronado Team 2) by Makenna Jameison

 Warning: This one's not a cozy but romantic suspense and contains adult content

About the Book

Navy SEAL Everett “Ace” Walker didn’t expect an instant connection with the woman he met online. Her husky voice, sexy laugh, and witty personality made him fall—hard. But he’s never even seen her. When she rushes to meet him one night, he suspects she’s hiding something. Ace wants to find out all her secrets but also keep her safe. 

App developer Addison Moore loves the nights online gaming with the mysterious guy she met. He’s funny and a great listener, with a protective streak that makes her melt. When they finally meet in person, she realizes he’s her every fantasy come to life—tall, muscular, and a Navy SEAL. Shivers race down her spine just being near him, but she can’t drag Ace into the complicated mess that is her life. 

When they discover that Addison’s roommate is part of a sex-trafficking ring, Addison is willing to put her own life in danger to protect other women. Ace is furious and will do anything to keep her safe. But can he also convince her to be his? 

Review 

Jameison weaves a story of two people who meet online gaming and enjoy some conversation. Ace makes the first move and asks Addison to meet him. Addison's not sure and odd things are happening that make her feel unsafe. She gives in - mostly to escape the mess her life has become, but also to satisfy her curiosity. They hit it off and though she's reluctant to get Ace involved in her troubles, he gets involved.

The story is well-written, the characters of Ace and Addison well-developed, and the pace is quick and steady. This is one of those books you shouldn't start reading in the evening and expect to go to sleep mid-way. Not happening. It follows the same format as many other romantic suspense novels with SEALs, with twists and turns to the HEA. If you enjoy romantic suspense and don't mind some adult content, you'll enjoy this one as the story unfolds. 

AMAZON

Book Review: DISAPPEAR (The Beckett Series Book 1) by Mary Martinez

About the Book 

After two years undercover as an FBI agent to infiltrate a crime organization and discover the identity of a hit man, Tyler Beckett’s cover is blown. Tyler’s new assignment is to protect the only witness who can identify the mysterious killer. If only he didn’t find her so attractive. Each day it becomes harder to keep his objective, especially since he knows the interest is mutual. 

Keira Cavanaugh is the only witness to a hit ordered by a crime boss. The safe house is compromised and the same hit man shoots Tyler. Fearing Tyler is dead, Keira plans revenge on the crime organization. She must fake her own suicide in order to survive. When Tyler discovers what Keira plans, he realizes he must stop her before he loses her for good. 

Review 

It should have been an easy assignment. Disappear and take Keira with him in witness protection. Only someone has inside information and it's not that simple. Despite their growing relationship, Tyler drills into Keira's head the safety plan should they be found out. When she believes Tyler's been killed, she escapes and forms her own plan. Fake her suicide and then retaliate.

A romantic suspense with twists and turns, Disappear is well-written and fast-paced. Tyler and Keira are strong characters and the rest of the Becketts add to the story. If you like suspense and romance, organized crime, and murder, you'll enjoy this first in a series. There is adult content, however, so reader beware.

AMAZON

About Mary Martinez 

Mary writes mostly romantic suspense, romance, women's fiction, and she has just begun to dabble in young adult mystery. She is a member of Romance Writers of America (RWA). During her writing career she has been a conference coordinator, workshop presenter, and chapter president for the Utah Chapter of RWA. In 2007 she was presented with the Utah RWA service award in acknowledgment and appreciation for outstanding service. Mary has also participated in numerous library panels on writing and co-presented a workshop on writing a series at the League of Utah Writers conference.