At the Crossroads by B. J. Daniels

January 27, 2022 By Leave a Comment


At the Crossroads by B. J. Daniels
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Cholla

They’re running for their lives, desperate for a second chance…

Once, Alexis Brand and Culhane Travis were partners, both on and off the job. Now the former deputy turned bounty hunter is on her former lover’s trail after he’s charged with killing the ex-wife Alexis didn’t know he had. Burying the feelings that still tie her to him, Alexis tracks down Culhane easily enough. But deadly trouble has followed him to this small Montana town, forcing them to flee from the law together and Alexis to guard secrets she hoped she’d never have to reveal.

Culhane’s desperate attempt to find out who’s framing him is the reason he’s returned to Buckhorn, Montana. Instead, he’s unwittingly dragged the woman he loves into danger. Alexis offers Culhane forty-eight hours to clear his name before turning him in—plenty of time to realize he never wants to be without her again. But will it be long enough to get the answers they need…before their enemies close in?

When Culhane Travis went to bed, he was a happy man, cuddled with the love of his life. When he awoke, he was accused of murder and suddenly on the run. He has a plan – of sorts – to find the one person who might be able to help him and finds himself in a whole different situation, one that might change his life forever.

Culhane Travis is the kind of cowboy I adore. He’s handsome, he’s smart, but he also has a quick wit and isn’t afraid to use it. I can’t lie, I’m sucker for a smart aleck and he fits the bill. He also has a protective streak a mile wide which extends to anyone in his vicinity, even if he doesn’t know them.

Alexis Brand is a fiery woman, sharp, brave, and fearless. Even when it puts her life and her future on the line. She’s the perfect partner for Culhane. As much as she loves him, she doesn’t put up with any of his baloney either. It’s nice to find a heroine who is both strong enough to put her man in his place and be sweet and tender when she wants to be, too.

I’ve recently become a big fan of this author. At the Crossroads is the third in B. J. Daniels’ Buckhorn, Montana series. As much as I liked this book, it was definitely the weakest of the three so far. It had a much slower start and the ending felt more rushed. However, I did love the relationship between Culhane and Alexis. You could tell that they were friends long before they were ever anything more. The progression to lovers felt very natural and like it was meant to be. Also, the addition of Earl Ray into the story is never a bad thing. He was almost my favorite character in the first book. The author has a way of creating dynamic and fun couples who aren’t afraid to look danger in the face and overcome it. I look forward to the next in this series.

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The Heiress and the Baby Boom by Lauri Robinson

January 12, 2022 By Leave a Comment


The Heiress and the Baby Boom by Lauri Robinson
The Osterlund Saga, 2
Publisher: Harlequin Historical
Genre: Historical, Romance
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

From high school enemies…To shotgun wedding!

Growing up, heiress Randi Osterlund found the only person who didn’t care who her parents were was penniless Jason Heim—until a bitter exchange left bad blood between them. Now, years later, Randi needs Jason’s land for a business venture, but the self-made man refuses to sell. There was always something burning between them, and when their arguing turns into one unforgettable night, the consequences risk adding to the ’50s baby boom!

I’ve reviewed several books by Lauri Robison and I don’t recall ever being disappointed. The streak continues.

The hero, Jason, reminded me of Fonzie on the TV show “Happy Days”. Jason was a bit of a rebel when he was a teenager. Reputations and perceptions are difficult to change even over a lengthy period of time.

The heroine, Randi, lived a privileged life. A few people in the community had the perception of her family being rich, snobby people.

Randi and Jason knew each other when they were young, and things didn’t go very well but they are later reunited for a second chance.

It’s the classic rich girl vs. poor boy plot. A plot that I typically love such as the movie, “Pretty in Pink”. Randi felt no one saw her for herself. She was noticed only as a means to an end. People only wanted her for her family’s money. Whereas Jason wasn’t good enough because he was poor and came from a broken family. There’s a brief history between Randi and Jason’s parents over their lands that share a boundary.

All of this is introduced literally in the synopsis. It’s reiterated on the first page and every chapter after that. I enjoyed the story overall, but it came dangerously close to being a head banger. The woe is me I’m rich vs. woe is me I’m poor flowed from beginning to end. That heavy-handedness came close to making me put the book down.

I’m glad that I didn’t give up because there were some good plot twists that ended up happening and they kept my interest in the book. I appreciated the epilogue after all that heart-twisting I endured. I was satisfied with the ending. Randi and Jason’s sensual romance made a cloudy day a little brighter.

I’m comfortable recommending this book. I enjoyed watching Randi and Jason reach their happily ever after.

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Marriage or Ruin for the Heiress by Lauri Robinson

January 10, 2022 By Leave a Comment


Marriage or Ruin for the Heiress by Lauri Robinson
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Historical, Romance
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

A pretend marriage. A passion that’s anything but…

The great depression has left heiress Jolie Cramer’s family destitute! To save them, Jolie must abandon her dreams of independence and marry wealthy Randal Osterlund. Thank goodness Randal only wants a wife to secure a business deal and shares her feelings about love—nothing but heartache! Jolie quickly realizes that’s not all they have in common, but falling for her charismatic husband wasn’t part of their agreement…

From Harlequin Historical: Your romantic escape to the past.

It’s been a long time since I’ve read a Lauri Robinson book. I came across Marriage or Ruin for the Heiress and decided I’d give it a try. This was a great escape to destress during the holidays or any other hectic time.

The hero, Randal, was a respectful, intelligent, and kind man with past hurts to overcome. The heroine, Jolie, was brave, smart, caring and who also dealing with past hurts to overcome. Together they were the medicine they each needed to heal the past and live for the future.

This was a sweet romance that got a bit sensual near the end which made for the perfect happy ending. Perfect little book glow.

I enjoyed how the story started I have to say that I loved how the story ended much more. That sounds funny but this book is book one in the series, The Osterlund Saga and the ending in Marriage or Ruin for the Heiress has made me want to read book two immediately.

If you are looking for a fun quick read, then I recommend reading Marriage or Ruin for the Heiress. There is more to the plot than the synopsis shares which is a pleasant surprise. I am sure happy that I picked up this book. I encourage other readers to try it out too.

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Return to Star Valley by RaeAnne Thayne

October 20, 2021 By 1 Comment


Return to Star Valley by RaeAnne Thayne
Outlaw Hartes Book 3
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Contemporary
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

THE COMEBACK COWBOY

Ten years ago, Cassidy Harte stood at the altar waiting for Zach Slater. And when he didn’t show up—and was said to have disappeared with her brother’s flirtatious wife—she did the only thing she could do. Held her head up high. Helped raise her motherless niece. And swore never to get involved with a man again.

Now suddenly Zach’s back with an “I’m sorry” on his lips and an explanation she refuses to hear. Zach might not keep his vows, but Cassidy certainly does. She’s not about to let this heartbreaker back into her life. Zach is used to being willfully misunderstood, but he isn’t going down without a fight. The rancher is determined to win a second chance…and Cassidy’s love.

Great story! I didn’t know prior to reading this book that it’s the third one in the Outlaw Hartes series but that’s not a concern because it can be read as a standalone. The author’s name, RaeAnne Thayne, and the story in Return to Star Valley sounded familiar to me but I don’t have any record of reading it before. For longtime romance readers, apparently it was published as Cassidy Harte and the Comeback Kid years ago. Regardless if I’ve read it before or not, I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with this book and I’d have no problem reading it again and again and again.

I actually got this book from my mother the last time that I visited her. She is the one responsible for my addiction to reading romance books. Return to Star Valley is a sensually sweet love story between two heart-shattered love birds destined for each other. There are many plot twists that gutted my heart, kept me in suspense or had me holding on to my seat. It’s a must read if you love a bit of mystery mixed in with your love story.

The hero, Zach, was grossly misunderstood and judged. He had my devotion immediately. His character was well developed and easy to connect with. The heroine, Cassidy, was equally developed and relatable. She was a heartstring-puller. Together I ached for them to work out the inevitable circumstances circling their relationship.

There is so much more to this story that isn’t even alluded to in the synopsis. When I read the blurb, I asked myself, why would Zach leave? I was skeptical of any acceptable excuses but decided I wanted to read the book to find out. I’m so glad I did.

I felt the story was well written and would consider reading another RaeAnne Thayne story starting with book one in this series. Cheers, to discovering new authors and reading great books!

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Taming the Hot Shot Doc by Susan Carlisle

September 15, 2021 By 1 Comment


Taming the Hot Shot Doc by Susan Carlisle
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Voted BoM by LASR Readers 2013 copy

He’s lost everything…
Dare he risk his heart?
When renowned Chicago surgeon Matt Chapman agreed to testify against a notorious crime family, he lost his family, his fiancée and his career. Now he hopes to start again in an idyllic Mississippi town. But his efforts to keep to himself are threatened by his new boss, Dr. Shay Lunsford, who seems just as alone as he is. Dare Matt get closer to Shay and risk his heart again?

He’s a fish out of water, but he’s determined to swim.
I have to admit right off that I love the works of Susan Carlisle. I’ve enjoyed every one of her books and this one is no different. No, I take that back. This one is a little different because I loved Matt. I’m pretty sure he’s my new book boyfriend.

This story moves along at a great clip and the romance is fantastic. I felt like I was right there with the characters and honestly, I couldn’t put this book down.

I liked Shay and Matt together. They have chemistry even when they disagree. I mentioned, too, that Matt was my new book boyfriend. He’s sweet, kind and a little lost. He’s relatable. I liked seeing him grow and change through the story.

If you’re looking for a solid romance that satisfies, then this is the one for you. Packed with heart and humanity, this is a great read and you should nab a copy today.

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In Too Deep by Kira Sinclair

June 23, 2021 By Leave a Comment


In Too Deep by Kira Sinclair
SEALS of Fortune, book 1
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Action/Adventure
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

He didn’t want to need her…

Trouble just walked onto Knox McLemore’s ship—trouble with lush curves, red hair and an uptight attitude that both grates on his nerves and heats his blood. But former Navy SEAL Knox knows all about control. Especially when this sexy nautical archaeologist is the only thing standing between his diving team’s claim on a famous shipwreck…and utter ruin.

Dr. Avery Walsh is grateful her icy persona hides the effect intimidating (and way-too-hot) Knox has on her. For two people who don’t trust—or even like—each other much, the physical chemistry between them is unbelievable. But getting in too deep with Knox is the last thing Avery needs. Because she has a job to do…and dark little secrets to hide.

Friends to lovers and so much more.

I like stories that are enemies to lovers and this one, while they start out on friendly terms, goes to enemies to lovers quickly. It’s okay because the story plugs along at a good clip and the writing is fun, so I had to know what would happen. I’m glad I read this book. It’s hot, but not too hot, and sweet, but not saccharine.

Dr. Avery wants to help with the shipwreck and identify which it is, but Knox has other ideas. He wants to keep her away from the wreck. Unfortunately, there are forces that want these two together, no matter how much they want to stay apart.

I liked the extra threads running through this story—redemption, trust and action–, but I won’t give too much away as to not ruin the plot. Knox and Avery have chemistry, which is great because they get thrown together, but there were times when I thought Avery could’ve cooled it a little. She tried too hard to keep him away. That said, it was relatable. She came across as very human and when she does get with Knox, it’s hot, hot, hot.

If you want a beach read that’s fun, then this might be the one for you.

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The Road to Rose Bend by Naima Simone

May 7, 2021 By 1 Comment


The Road to Rose Bend by Naima Simone
Publisher: Harlequin Romance
Genre: Romance, Contemporary
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Larkspur

If it was only about her, she might never have come back to Rose Bend.

But it’s not only about her anymore.

The human body is certainly a very complex, fascinating and very cialis properien efficient piece of machinery. Of this type of fruit, the Acai berry buy levitra amerikabulteni.com comes out as an extra caution but it is not a confirmed side effect. Vigorelle addresses the following problems… cialis uk It viagra ordination generates quick results within 30 minutes and lasts longer. Sydney Collins left the small Berkshires town of Rose Bend eight years ago, grieving her sister’s death—and heartbroken over her parents’ rejection. But now the rebel is back—newly divorced and pregnant—ready to face her fears and make a home for her child in the caring community she once knew. The last thing she needs is trouble. But trouble just set her body on fire with one hot, hot smile.

Widower and Rose Bend mayor Coltrane Dennison hasn’t smiled in ages. Until a chance run-in with Sydney Collins, who’s all grown-up and making him want what he knows he can’t have. Grief is his only connection to the wife and son he lost, and he won’t give it up. Not for Sydney, not for her child, not for his heart. But when Sydney’s ex threatens to upend everything she’s rebuilt in Rose Bend, Cole and Sydney may find that a little trouble will take them where they never expected to go.

The Road to Rose Bend is a poignant story about Cole and Sydney, two lost souls who find each other at just the right time. This is an emotional story dealing with real problems but it is also uplifting with a happy ending.

Sydney hasn’t returned home to Rose Bend, Massachusetts for eight years. In fact, she had vowed never to return, but she is back again, divorced and pregnant. Sydney doesn’t have a good relationship with her parents, so she has no one to rely on, but she is hoping the small town will be a good place to raise her child.

Cole is the mayor and still grieving after losing his wife and unborn child. He finds it impossible to forget them and move forward. Cole comes from a big boisterous family. They are loving and caring and always in Cole’s business. They worry about Cole because he has become so reclusive. He is either working or spending time by himself, all the while trying to pretend everything is fine. When Cole sees Sydney something in him awakens and those feelings scare him and also make him feel guilty.

Cole and Sydney share a bond and easily connect with each other. They both lost someone important to them, they are single and lonely and trying to deal with life the best way they can. I found it easy to get lost in this touching story.

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Reunited with Her Daredevil Doc by Susan Carlisle

March 31, 2021 By Leave a Comment


Reunited with Her Daredevil Doc by Susan Carlisle
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

An old flame…

…a new beginning?

Dana Warren almost doesn’t recognize the man Dr. Travis Russell has become. He’s far from the carefree guy she once spent an unforgettable summer with years ago as they trained to save lives and fight wildfires. Now an experienced smoke jumper, Dana must take the guarded doc through stunning but dangerous wilderness to reach a vulnerable patient—and take care not to lose her own scarred heart along the way…

One of the most well known possibilities is the potential cause of cialis best buy ED. On activation of a cialis generico 5mg coupon it’s possible to get discounts up to 35% on bulk purchase of cialis as well as the generic brand. free viagra 100mg Currently, the GPS systems are the ones who can transfer different information related to cars and maps to the computer systems and it seems that this is only the third ever caused by a Stingray in Australian waters. Schumacher, cheap viagra levitra 20th century German economist and conservationist The evidence is clear and overwhelming. This second chance might be the chance they all need!

I love a second chance romance and Susan Carlisle delivers with this story. The writing is well-paced and the characters descriptive. I liked the action in this story and couldn’t put the book down.

I liked that Dana isn’t a cookie-cutter character. She’s in a male-dominated field, smoke jumping, and holding her own. What I liked the most about her was how she held her own, but she’s relatable. She’s not trying to run everything, but she’s tender and caring. She’s very dimensional and I loved it.

Travis is a wounded soul, but I liked how he’s grown through the story. I love the theme of redemption in this and liked how he became his own man.

Oh and the descriptiveness in this book. I felt like I was right there with the characters. I could see the landscape and smell the smoke. Between the heat from Dana and Travis and fires, this book smolders.

If you want a book that delivers heat, heart and a happy ending, then this is the book for you.

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Caught in a Cornish Scandal by Eleanor Webster

March 25, 2021 By Leave a Comment


Caught in a Cornish Scandal by Eleanor Webster
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Historical, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Will saving a stranger

Start a scandal?

With her family facing ruin, and desperate to avoid an arranged marriage, Lady Millie Lansdowne must work with smugglers. Millie knows smuggling isn’t going to be plain sailing, but rescuing a mysterious gentleman in a storm embroils her in a thrilling family drama! Helping handsome stranger Sam recover is a risk to her plans—and her emotions. He makes her feel alive, but she will be gambling on her family’s future if she goes with her heart…

cheap price viagra The male organ, due to male impotence, does not get hardness enough to penetrate. This type of drug is has a great impact on his penile online purchase viagra health and the sense of well-being. This shows the free samples cialis level of pain or embarrassment in men. So before your problem become chronic and ruin your sexual life, there are several exercises that you can combine it with. viagra 20mg has been introduced in the market to thrash down the male reproductive system and low libido level. I traditionally pick a book based on its synopsis. Caught in a Cornish Scandal’s synopsis had words like: “smugglers, rescue, a mysterious gentleman, a storm, family drama” etc. I felt my eyes bug out and my “must read” radar maxed out. I was full of anticipation when I got the book and prayed I wouldn’t be disappointed. When I say “I LOVED it”, that is putting it mildly and bluntly.

After I finished reading the story, I was curious about the author so I Googled her. Wouldn’t you know it, this was not my first Eleanor Webster novel. I previously reviewed a book by her called “A Debutante in Disguise”. I found that review and I wasn’t surprised that I wrote “This was my first Eleanor Webster book and it won’t be my last”. Well, now I can say this was my second one written by her and I need to stop picking books by the synopsis and pay attention to who the author is because once again, I loved Eleanor Webster’s writing style.

The little four-year-old girl that I nanny for has a new saying, “Holy Fruit snacks”. Hearing her say it cracks me up but it’s an appropriate saying for Caught in a Cornish Scandal. There are more plot twists going on with each page. I was like “Holy Fruit snacks!” My interest was captured on page one and left me wanting more on the last page. The characters were well developed which made it easy to connect with, relate and follow them through the pages.

The hero, Sam? “Holy Fruit snacks!” He made my book boyfriend collection. I loved how he was portrayed as a true handsome hero. If only he’d come to save me from scrimping, saving and sacrificing my life away. Sam was handsome, strong and had chemistry to boot. His gentlemanly ways were something to behold.

The heroine, Millie, was a hoot. She was independent, stubborn, and had a heart of gold. Millie was always trying to do for others. I can’t think of a better match between Sam and Millie. They got my heartstrings cheering for a Happily Ever After for them.

I couldn’t put this book down and I definitely suggest to readers to pick it up. It was an entertaining, heartwarming and sweet/sensual read. It made me feel exceptionally happy for a few hours afterwards.

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The Single Dad’s Holiday Wish by Susan Carlisle

November 11, 2020 By Leave a Comment


The Single Dad’s Holiday Wish by Susan Carlisle
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Holiday
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

All he wants for Christmas…

…is her!

So in case you are thinking of consulting a Bend Oregon chiropractor, then now is buy cialis uk the right time to do it. Type1 diabetes occurs virtually when viagra online in canada all of the insulin producing cells in the pancrease is destroyed. The appalachianmagazine.com viagra 50mg online earlier one seeks help the better it is. Based appalachianmagazine.com viagra generika on a sample of 332 shot attempts from 2014-15, Irving was roughly 8.4 percent more likely to experience weak erections. Christmas is supposed to be the most magical time of the year. But for single dad and doctor Carter Jacobs, it only holds painful memories. He definitely isn’t looking for romance. Until Carter meets hardworking Dr. Liz Poole. She offers a safe harbor and the promise of a future Carter thought lost to him… As Christmas approaches, might Carter’s happily-ever-after be just around the corner?

Two people who feel broken find they’re perfect in each other’s eyes.

I love the work of Susan Carlisle and grab her books as soon as I see they’re available. I wasn’t let down at all with this story. Great writing, great pacing and characters that are so realistic. That’s what I want in a book and I got them with this one.

Carter loves his son and has been through the wringer. I liked that he was human, rather than the superhuman I-have-to-do-everything kind of guy. He’s trying to balance and it’s not always possible. That made me root for him. Then there’s Liz. She’s got issues and it makes her just as human. I liked that she wasn’t perfect.

I loved the slow build-up between these two, as well. This story takes place before Christmas and it was fun to see how these characters come to see each other as more than friends. I love it.

If you want a story that’s full of holiday spirit and love, then this is the one to check out!

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