A Pride of Brothers: Aiden by Peggy Jaeger

March 23, 2022 By 7 Comments


A Pride of Brothers: Aiden by Peggy Jaeger
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Suspense/Mystery/Thriller
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Mistflower

Lexi Buckley wants answers about her younger sister’s death. The police have labeled it a suicide, but Lexi doesn’t believe it. Stymied in her investigation, she doesn’t know where to turn next. After a chance encounter with a private investigator, she thinks her prayers have been answered.

Aiden Keane has never been an answer to a prayer before, but he agrees to help Lexi. A quirky combo of brains and beauty, the pixie blonde makes him feel things no professional ever should for a client.

When their investigation puts Lexi’s life in jeopardy, her safety becomes his number one priority. The hard part is not falling for her.

I loved Pride of Brothers: Aiden so much that I’m going to have to find and read book one, A Pride of Brothers: Rick. Why? Because a higher power beyond my control is demanding me to find and read the first book, at least that is what I tell my husband. Ha, ha. I love Ms. Jaeger’s books. She’s on my favorite authors list.

I can’t believe my good fortune to be sucked into another great series quite so fast! The hero in this book is Aiden Keane. *sigh* Just thinking about him gives me goosebumps. Lexi Buckley, the heroine, was one lucky woman to have a “chance encounter” with Aiden. I believe he really was the answer to her prayers in more ways than one. I loved how Aiden “has never been an answer to a prayer before” but he agrees to help Lexi. That statement alone makes me smile. Aiden is the complete package. He’s a private investigator for goodness’ sake! I know I’d like his help in keeping me safe and, shall I say, ‘warm’.

Lexi was a hoot! I loved her. She had this hilarious unique characteristic that’s endearing. You’ll have to read the story to find out what I’m talking about. It’s an instrumental characteristic throughout the book and it made me laugh out loud numerous times. Aiden found it irresistible. Together Lexi and Aiden had me not only laughing, but on the edge of my seat as they investigated her younger sister’s death.

I haven’t read a romance/mystery/suspense/thriller in a very long time. I was on a historical romance binge for a while. I forgot what it was like to hyperventilate over a suspenseful scene. There are more plot twists in this story than I can shake a stick at. I loved every second. I consider the plot to be original, creative and riveting.

I originally rated this book as a 5 but the more I type, the more I realize that I can’t stop talking about it which gravitated me towards rating this as a Best Book. I mean, I didn’t even mention the dog yet. Aiden has a dog. Ya’ll, it’s not just a dog. You need to read the story. If the dog doesn’t win you over then surely Aiden and Lexi will.

Did I mention that Aiden owns his own investigating company with his brothers? Oh, his brothers sound delicious. Aiden’s brother, Rick, is the hero and that’s the reason why I have to read the first book in this series. I met him in this story, and I would love to know how/why he decided to no longer be a bachelor. I don’t know if there are more books coming in the series but I do know that if there are, then I’ll be reading them.

According to the author’s website, the author writes “about strong women, the families who support them, and the men who can’t live without them.” That really resonated with me. I appreciate Ms. Jaeger’s style of writing and that is why she’s on my “favorite authors list”.

If you at all like suspense/romance/mystery thrillers with strong, gorgeous heroes and smart, stunning heroines that will take you somewhere without actually going anywhere, then pick up this book.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Dear Pink by Michelle Angelle

March 21, 2022 By 1 Comment


Dear Pink by Michelle Angelle
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Will an unexpected bucket list change Hannah and Gabe’s lives forever?

Hannah’s sleazy ex-boyfriend left her a hot mess. For years, she’s worked in the basement dungeon and has come to accept a life full of disappointments. That is until she receives a bucket list from her best friend.

Gabe’s Instagram-famous fiancé dumped him for a social media mogul. Shocked and heartbroken, Gabe decides he’s better off without a girlfriend until he runs into an adorable woman on a pink bike.

Will Hannah and Gabe be able to put aside their fears and let love into their lives again? A bucket list might just be the trick that gets them both back on track.

It’s not fair that I have to work instead of reading romance books all day. I just finished Dear Pink by Michelle Angelle and found out that this is book one of two in a series. I’ve never read a story by Ms. Angelle before, but I can enthusiastically say I LOVED it. I’m so passionately in love with what I just read that I simply have to read book two. I know I sound overzealous about Dear Pink, but even the book title has me feeling excited.

The plot is original and clever which is a major factor in my becoming enamored with this book. The paramount reasons that made this book so awesome include there being a prologue starting six years prior which captured my interest, the fast and steady pace kept my attention all the way through, and it ends with an epilogue six years later. I adore romance stories that come all wrapped up with a pretty bow like that.

I always appreciate when a synopsis doesn’t give away the entire plot of a story. The best gift an author can give me is a laugh or two within the story. The element of humor in a romance will seal the deal with me every time. I can’t remember the last book that had me chuckling while reading. Laughter is a major factor for me, and not enough romance books supply it.

The laughter came from the hero and heroine. Gabe is the best hero because he was strong and vulnerable. I love a sensitive, vulnerable yet strong hero. I relate to that type of hero the best. Hannah, the heroine, was more vulnerable in my opinion but has a ‘never give up’ attitude. Together they complete each other. Their weaknesses become their strengths. Hannah’s character has a sad characteristic but I’m not sharing what it is because it would be a spoiler. Unfortunately, it’s a fact of life, yet the way the author presents it is heartwarming. I can’t say anything else about that plot thread involving Hannah.

One thing’s for sure. Gabe and Hannah surely “heat” up the bike path. It was a good thing I was icing an injury while reading because I needed the ice to cool me down. Ha, ha.

Both Gabe and Hannah’s vulnerabilities left their mindset with insecurities and fears to overcome. That made for an ‘on and off again’ relationship due to misunderstandings. I ate up that drama like a starving lunatic because I knew they’d see the light eventually. Their chemistry was undeniable. I knew their happily ever after was going to leave a huge ‘book glow’.

The cast of characters were well-developed and relatable. Most of the characters came from Hannah’s work and Gabe’s family. It’s my understanding that this book can be read as a standalone. However, I’m figuratively dying to read book two because it has one of Gabe’s sisters as the heroine. I don’t have the book in my possession yet but it’s only a matter of time before I do.

I highly suggest romance readers pick up their own copy of Dear Pink and get started so that they can also look forward to book two like me. I’m always told that reviewing a book is subjective but I honestly can’t imagine anyone not loving this book. It’s “pink-alicious”!

–

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , ,

Sworn to Fly by Maria Imbalzano

March 14, 2022 By 5 Comments


Sworn to Fly by Maria Imbalzano
(Sworn Sisters Series) Book 3 of 3
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Mistflower

Voted BoM by LASR Readers 2013 copy

Risk-averse ER nurse, Alyssa Beckman, is about to lose her job because of yet another bad decision. In order to put her life back on track, she books a week at a rustic mountain resort to ponder her next steps and rejuvenate. But when she arrives, she learns she’s enrolled in boot camp, an adventure program far out of her comfort zone.

While there, she meets Gabriel Sutton, a world-travelling high-fashion photographer who is in danger of losing his clients as well as his status if he doesn’t start following the rules. While hiking, kayak racing, and participating in team challenges, sparks fly between Alyssa and Gabe as they encourage each other to take different life paths. But will those paths lead them farther apart or bring them closer together?

I had zero inclination that this book was part of a series until I started the review and discovered that it’s actually book three of the Sworn Sisters Series. That demonstrates to me that Sworn to Fly can clearly be read as a standalone. I have never read a book by the author, Maria Imbalzano but I can assure you that I’ll be looking for more of her books in the future. Specifically, I’ll be purchasing the first two in this series without a doubt. I chose this book because the synopsis captured my interest. Now that I have finished the story, I am pleased that the synopsis was only a highlight to spark my interest. I compare the synopsis to the top and bottom bread of a sandwich. The story is whatever your absolute favorite sandwich filling would be.

I usually conclude my reviews with a recommendation to read the book or put it on a keeper’s shelf etc. I’m actually compelled to make such a statement at this point, Sworn to Fly is a must read. It is my greatest pleasure to claim this romance book as a LASR Best Book.

The heroine, Alyssa Beckman was easily someone I could know in reality which made it extremely easy for me to relate to her. Alyssa was more than just a character in a book. It felt as if she could be my neighbor, co-worker, sister, or in this situation, my best friend. Alyssa has three best friends that I’d like to get to know better. Apparently, they each had their own story previously in the Sworn Sisters Series. If their story is anything as good as Alyssa’s story then I simply must read them.

The hero, Gabriel Sutton is the meat of the sandwich. That just made me laugh out loud. If he’s the meat, then Alyssa is all the other fixings and condiments. Together they complete each other and the sandwich. That’s actually an awesome analogy for them and all the other characters are the chips, cookie and drink. The entire story is a combo meal. I can keep going with this analogy when I think of the series as a restaurant. I want to go back and get two more combo meals, which are the first two books, and I hope they will be just as delicious.

Gabriel and Alyssa are funny, overly dramatic and have amazing chemistry. I enjoyed reading their time together in the rustic mountain resort. Together as a couple they took my breath away. I’d really love to see this book made into a movie and I’m not talking about a Hallmark movie. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, I actually love my Christmas Hallmark movies. I’m saying that I think there is enough material to turn this into an award-winning movie in the theaters.

The writing in this story was vivid, engaging and entertaining. I was able to visualize what I was reading while feeling what the characters were feeling as if I was at the scene. The synopsis intrigued me, the first page captured me and the best part is that there was even an epilogue.

This romance story was not a drive through fast food restaurant where the meal is finished in ten minutes and wrappers tossed into a trash can. This was a sit-down fancy lunch diner, where I took my time to eat and a waitress served me. Every bite was delicious, leaving me with a satisfied belly. I hope this review encourages other readers to give it a try. It’s a great book to sink your teeth into.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Rock of Salvation by M.J. Schiller

February 25, 2022 By 1 Comment


Rock of Salvation by M.J. Schiller
Love and Chaos Series, Book 4
Publisher: Kissmet Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Jericho Tyler was comfortable in his role as the wild man of Just Short Of Chaos. Different gorgeous women throwing themselves at him every night? What self-respecting hetero male wouldn’t dream of that? But when Salvation steps out of his shower and into his life, things start to change.

Oh, yeah. I knew the second I saw her that she didn’t belong backstage. And she didn’t belong with a man like me, for sure. But I didn’t let that stop me from seeing just how far she was willing to go to keep up her little naughty girl charade. And if she had something to prove, why not prove it with me?

Salvation Jones was not like the rest of her family. In a parcel of toe-the-line, conservative preacher’s kids, she stood out like a piece of her costume jewelry at the Inaugural Ball.

I must have had a far-sighted stork reading the directions for my delivery. I was louder than they were. More boisterous. I got into more trouble. I’d heard, “Oh,Salvation,” in my mom’s disappointed voice for so long I began to think the O stood for Olivia, or something. It’s not like I meant to misbehave, but it just came naturally to me. I’d tried to be who they wanted; now it was time for me to truly be myself. They say, “Go big or go home,” so why not start out by seducing a rock star? And not just any rock star, the luscious, womanizing Jericho Tyler. Now that was somebody worth sinning for!

Sometimes it takes a bad boy to redeem a good girl. But will she become his Salvation in the end?

I want to start this review with paraphrasing a quote I saw somewhere, “The Love and Chaos series is M.J. Schiller’s way of rocking one fan at a time”. I can testify that each book in this series definitely ‘rocked me’. I’m officially a huge fan of M.J. Schiller and of her “Love and Chaos series”. Technically, each can be read as a standalone, but I’m biased after reading all four. I simply can’t recommend just reading one. That would be like eating one buttery piece of popcorn – impossible. Many people binge watch Netflix. Not me. I binge read, and I guarantee one day I’m going binge read this series now that I have them all.

Rock of Salvation is the fourth and final book in this series. Unfortunately, all good things come to an end. It was finally Jericho’s turn to be the hero. Excuse me while I breathe with short, quick breaths, from my excitement over Jericho. Getting to know his character launched butterflies in my stomach multiple times. His stage personality was just that, ‘staged’. The real Jericho was just so “froggy”. When you read the story, you’ll get that innuendo. My speechlessness over Jericho is genuine. Just know that he is a rockstar that has a reputation and is performing when he’s on stage, and then, there is Jericho, the man. The real Jericho is to die for.

I can’t stop smiling as I am now about to talk about the heroine, Salvation Jones. Yes, that is her real name. Of all the character possibilities that M.J. Schiller could have chosen to create for Jericho, she chose a preacher’s daughter. I couldn’t believe it. Yet it was perfectly designed and masterfully executed. My face muscles hurt from smiling. Jericho and Salvation were complete polar opposites and yet they weren’t. The only way to describe them is to compare them to kettle popcorn. One is sweet and one is salty but when you put them together, they are delicious. I read this book in one day because I literally couldn’t stop reading it.

I got to know Jericho and Salvation’s families. Jericho’s was loving, funny and friendly. Salvation’s family fit the stereotypical ‘preacher family’. Some people suggest that there is a “preacher’s kid syndrome”, in which children of clergy reject religion and the church. This view is seen as a stereotype. I’m not debating that thought process one way or another but it’s one of my favorite plots. If you like the movies: Footloose, Dirty Dancing, Grease, Pretty in Pink, and Sixteen Candles, then you understand what I’m trying to explain.

Plot and theme are commonly confused. The plot is the sequence of events in the story. The theme is the message the author is trying to convey. In this book and the previous books in the series, I think the author did an excellent job creating plots that carried the theme of being redeemed and getting second chances. In this story, the hero, Jericho, was a prime example of being redeemed; and the heroine, Salvation, was appropriately named.

Like I said before, technically Rock of Salvation can be read as a standalone. However, Jericho is part of a rock band and in the previous books in the series each member had their own romance story. The rock band, Just Short of Chaos, is their own family unit. Therefore, when I read a story in this series, I feel like I’m part of the family unit. Just like in real life when one person in a family unit gets married the family grows. It has been an honor to be part of this rock group’s community and see them grow and develop.

As I said in the second paragraph, all good things must come to an end but at least I can reread this series as many times as I want to. I hope others will pick up this book and the others before it. It’s an awesome ride! Happy Reading.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , ,

Island Charm by Audrey Wick

February 23, 2022 By Leave a Comment


Island Charm by Audrey Wick
Publisher: White Rose Publishing/Pelican Book Group
Genre: Contemporary, Inspirational, Romance
Rating: 4 stars
Review by Mistflower

An imposter in paradise

When Anna Worthington’s twin sister gets jilted by her fiancé, Anna steps in with a plan for a girls’ Key West getaway instead of a honeymoon trip. Yet when her twin has her own crisis of commitment and doesn’t board the plane, Anna finds herself on a romantic getaway that she’s forced to navigate alone.

A vacation romance with an expiration date

Gunnar Lockhart, whose specialty is island tourism, is the perfect match for helping Anna complete her vacation bucket list, but time together forges a connection more personal than either anticipate. As they make island memories, Anna has to untangle her mixed emotions. Are her feelings toward Gunnar real? Or like her sister’s wedding day, has this connection been doomed from the start?

Audrey Wick’s writing style is charming. She has a way of bringing her stories to life. This story takes place mostly in Key West which I’ve been to a few times. I can testify to the magic and lifestyle of the Keys. I live in Florida and the Keys is its own entity. While reading this story I felt like Audrey Wick captured the distinction of Key West.

I consider a romance book to be a work of art. I don’t have the skills to write a book, but I thoroughly enjoy reading them. There could not be a more appropriate or better title for this book, Island Charm. As I write this review, I’m thinking deeply and carefully about Island Charm’s subject matter. I feel it necessary to share with you the definition of charm. “Charm (noun) is the power or quality of giving delight or arousing admiration. (Verb) delight greatly”. This leads me directly to the hero.
Ejaculation Trouble Another most common trouble is ejaculation dysfunction, and sildenafil samples most common type of this disorder before starting your treatment. Let’s know about the symptoms that will help you cialis 10mg Check Out Your web-site with your problem. These drugs stimulate cialis price why not check here the natural functioning of nitric oxide in the body. To buy Penegra online is not only an easy matter cheapest generic tadalafil icks.org here but it will found cost effective.
The above definition of charm can be applied to the hero, Gunner. He was definitely filled with charm. What do I mean? I mean that Gunner was friendly and pleasant to those that he came in contact with. He made it impossible for anyone to not like him. Gunner loved giving back to his community and working at an information booth in the Keys was one way he could do that. I would go as far to say that Gunner had a special and unique charm that set him apart from other men.

I could completely see how the heroine, Anna, was captivated by Gunner’s appealing features, mannerisms and characteristics. I for one fell for his compassionate heart. Gunner’s interaction with an elderly man name named Jack demonstrated Gunner’s desire to serve others.

The heroine is a kind soul as well. Anna’s love for her sister and family is heartwarming and inspirational.

The romance between Anna and Gunner is sweet and inspiring. Not only was I entertained but I was encouraged as well. Anna and Gunner were both going through the struggle of living through the consequences of somebody else’s choices. I think that is the reality of life for many people. I know my life has been impacted by circumstances that I have had no control over. This story gave me hope.

My interest was captured from page one, and I was engaged in the plot and romance until the last page. The story’s pace flowed smoothly and flawlessly. I found only one bone to pick, that being the fact that Gunner and Anna never exchanged phone numbers. In this day and age of texting, I found that glaringly odd, however that didn’t affect my enjoyment of the story.

I always appreciate a book that ends with an epilogue. After the epilogue, Island Charm surprised me with a “Devotional Moment” and a cooking recipe that was relevant to the story. I didn’t realize that White Rose Publishing/Pelican Book Group was known for writing inspirational stories. I’ll have to look into that further. The subject matter in this story all makes sense now. My Christian mother and sister would appreciate this uplifting romance story. You don’t have to be a Godly person to read and enjoy this romance but those who are, will have an additional reason to appreciate this book.

This is not my first Audrey Wick story, and it won’t be my last. I searched the internet and couldn’t find anything mentioning a next book in the series. I would greatly appreciate a book two that found a happily ever after for Anna’s sister, Brie. I would totally read that.

I definitely would encourage romance readers, including all my friends and family, to check out Island Charm, especially if they are looking for a relaxing beach read. I would absolutely pack this book in my beach or pool bag and read it again.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Magic in the Snow by Ryan Jo Summers

February 21, 2022 By Leave a Comment


Magic in the Snow by Ryan Jo Summers
Publisher: Melange Books
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday, Romance
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

He’s the town scrooge.
She blew in like a candy-coated snowstorm.
Can a young boy’s belief in magic bring them together?

The ink is barely dry from her divorce when Dawson Patrick and her three-year-old Autistic son, Adam, arrive in Cedar Falls, Maine. She’s here to help her aging father and doesn’t plan to stay long. Soon she and Adam will be on their way somewhere…to a new life.

When she finds her dad sitting in a cold house that’s falling around him, with little food, she realizes she might have a bigger problem on her hands. To make matters worse, she has no idea where to start on her long list of home improvement. She needs books on lots of DIY projects, and the man to help her is the local Christmas scrooge.

Samuel Johnson owns Chapter Twenty-Five Bookstore. He doesn’t enjoy the holiday season and he doesn’t ‘do’ gifts. He just happens to live in a town that wholeheartedly embraces it, so he’s learned to adapt and lay low to escape the memories of many an unhappy Christmas past. He can’t believe the blonde beauty who marches into his store like a candy-coated snowstorm, along with her pint-sized elfin toddler, and orders up a stack of DIY home repair books. Before Samuel knows it, he’s letting Dawson and Adam drag him to the town’s tree lighting ceremony, convincing him to foster kittens, and to give gifts.

Has Dawson just returned home to forget her past, only to slide into another relationship? Has the town scrooge finally seen the Christmas lights?

Magic in the Snow is a sweet, heartwarming and entertaining read. It has an original plot with a lot of potential. I really connected with it because the heroine, Dawson, has a son named Adam who is suspected to be high functioning autistic even though he wasn’t actually diagnosed by a doctor in the story.

Dawson and Peter, Adam’s biological dad, had just resolved a speedy divorce when this story starts. The reason Peter walked out was because they “suspected Adam to be autistic”. Peter even gives up his parental rights. That’s a pretty harsh decision from only suspecting a child isn’t “average”, especially since my impression of Adam was that he was not on the spectrum. I was really happy that Peter didn’t show back up in the story. I would have had a huge issue with that.

The story alludes to Dawson making an appointment to confirm what is suspected but doesn’t reveal the outcome of that doctor visit. I have a highly functioning autistic child and I have my teaching degree in Early Childhood Education. It’s a broad statement to say one is on the spectrum because autism isn’t the same for each child. Based on what I read, Adam may not be on the Autistic spectrum because he didn’t exhibit the classic red flags or triggers of being autistic. The only criteria Adam met was non-verbal and that can be attributed to having a mild speech delay, Apraxia or even a processing disorder. I have a sensitivity about the labeling of children, especially without a proper medical diagnosis.

Dawson meets the hero, Samuel, who apparently can relate to her son since he himself is considered to be on the spectrum. Samuel has other childhood trauma issues to resolve before he can give his heart away. Samuel did appeal to me as someone I could fall in love with. He and Dawson made for a sweet romance with some heartwarming kisses.

Another thread in the story is about the heroine’s father. Since Dawson is recently divorced, she is able to step up and help her aging dad, Lloyd. She moves in with him temporarily to access what she needs to do to help him and discovers her dad in dire straits. The heroine ends up as a single mother trying to “do it all”. There is mention of the heroine having a brother throughout the story, but I don’t ever get to meet him. Dawson says she’s going to call him but never does. Thank goodness Samuel is extremely supportive and helpful.

Another thing about the hero is that he’s observant. The author touched upon another emotional topic by having Samuel suspect that Dawson’s dad might be showing signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, even though Lloyd is taken to the doctors, I was left wondering about the outcome. The author never shared. Based only on what I read, Lloyd does appear to be symptomatic of a person suffering from Alzheimer’s.

There is more to this story without giving spoilers. There were some good times, sad times, frustrating times and sighs of relief at times. There were just a few too many unanswered questions for me. For example, I met Samuel’s mother only one time because she made a surprise visit. That visit didn’t go very well and Samuel was planning on having another conversation with her. I would have loved to have heard what was said but the story ended before they got to talk. I’m very detail oriented and I like all my plot threads tied up in a pretty bow. While I enjoyed how the story ended, I would have appreciated an epilogue.

Overall, this really was an entertaining read. I enjoyed the small-town Christmas atmosphere. There was no doubt that the Christmas magic was in the air, leaving the reader filled with hope and wonder. Dawson, Samuel and Adam made the perfect family. I’ve never read a Ryan Jo Summers book before but I would like to try to read another one in the future. Happy Reading!

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

Rock it to the Moon by M.J. Schiller

February 18, 2022 By 1 Comment


Rock it to the Moon by M.J. Schiller
Love and Chaos Series, Book three
Publisher: Kissmet Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

While love had come to some of the other members of Just Short Of Chaos, Dex Rogan had no interest in getting tangled up in that mess. That is, until he stumbled upon Tatum backstage.

Before Tatum, I would have told you love was for chumps. But I would have been wrong.

The moment I saw her, it was like BAM! This driving urge to be with her was more jarring than someone smacking me in the face with my drumsticks would be. And every moment since has just solidified her place in my heart. By the time I found out she was off-limits, it was too late. I was all in.

Tatum Salvetti doesn’t have time for love. If it can’t be color-coded or found on the periodic table, she doesn’t need it. But when an ugly incident drives her into Dex’s arms, she’s shaken enough to step out of character for once.

I wasn’t looking for love that night, I was looking to escape, and Dex was the perfect distraction from my train wreck of a life. …He was perfect, period.

But I’m in astrophysics. I’m not stupid. I knew it wasn’t going anywhere. Even if he wasn’t just interested in a one night stand, we wouldn’t be able to hide a relationship from Zane. My brother seemed to still think of me as the ten-year-old he met when our parents wed. Well, it wasn’t any ten-year-old girl in Dex Rogan’s bed that night, and if Zane found out about it, he would go apeshit. I was trying to get away from chaos, not create it.

Tatum has sacrificed her whole life for others. But maybe this time she could think of her own desires. Could Dex’s brand of chaos be just what she needs?

Oh, my reading heart! I thought today was going to be the end of my relationship with the cast of characters in the Love and Chaos series because I thought this was a trilogy and I was reading the last great book. I thought I was going to be sad when Rock it to the Moon ended but lo and behold! Imagine my surprise and joy when I found out there is going to be a fourth. More on that later.

Dex Rogan isn’t one of the original Just Short of Chaos bandmates. That plot thread is explained in each book in the series. The story behind why and how Dex came to join the band makes Dex’s character heartwarming and relatable. Dex has big, virtually impossible shoes to fill. I couldn’t help but become a fan of Dex. He was sensitive, strong, and could play the typical rock star image just like all the other bandmates could.

Technically, each book in this series could be read as a standalone but I’m already craving to read this entire series again. I think that means I can’t objectively recommend reading just the one. The first book, Rocked by Grace, introduced the band, Just Short of Chaos and the hero, lead singer, Zane Sanders. The second one, Rocked by Love, was about the guitarist, Rafe Santiago. Rock it to the Moon is about their drummer, Sex, I mean Dex Rogan’s love story. Ha, ha…sorry, I couldn’t help it. I made that slip a few times while reading. Oooh, la, la, Dex. Who am I kidding? The entire band is drool worthy!

The heroine, Tatum, was just like the synopsis said, “a train wreck”. Her life was truly miserable. Tatum is actually Zane Sanders, the lead singer’s sister. Tatum’s tragic life allowed Dex to be a true heartthrob hero. Dex and Tatum had chemistry, a sense of humor, misunderstandings and melt-your-heart scenes. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough even though I didn’t want to reach the end too quickly, you know?

One of the reasons I treasure this series is because the books slightly overlap each other, and I get to relive a scene or two from a different perspective. There is a sense of family among the characters welcoming me home, giving me the sense that I’m part of the family.

Like I said in the beginning of my review, I found out that there’s going to be one more story and it’s going to be about the band’s other guitarist, Jericho Tyler. I’m beyond elated, ecstatic, overjoyed, tickled pink etc. The worst part is that it’s not released yet. I don’t think I’m going to make it. I need to read it this minute because I am still on cloud nine after reading Rock it to the Moon. I want to stay on that cloud; that’s how awesome this book is.

The ending of this book was spectacular, even more so for those that read Zane’s story. If you are new to the author, M.J. Schiller, and looking for a rocking good time, then pick up the entire series, Love and Chaos. That’s all I’m going to say.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , ,

Rocked by Love by M. J. Schiller

February 15, 2022 By 2 Comments


Rocked by Love by M. J. Schiller
Love and Chaos Series Book two
Publisher: Kissmet Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Rock star Raphael Santiago is haunted by the night his friend Devin died. Maybe because there’s something that no one knows about the overdose. But when he jumps in the crowd to defend a woman at one of his concerts, he finds he doesn’t want to keep the secret from her. Mia was a tight little ball of fire, and I was made of combustible material. She misunderstood my intentions the night we met, but I was given an opportunity to explain the next day. I wish that was our only miscommunication, but when I discovered she’d written an inflammatory article about Just Short of Chaos, I thought she was using me to get a story. The hurt that caused made me say some nasty things. Now I may have lost her forever. Mia Love doesn’t know if Rafe is truly interested in her, or if she is merely a new plaything for him. Oh, there was definitely a heat between us from day one. Sometimes volatile, sometimes scorching in a good way. But I’d been burnt before and I was stronger now. No way was I going to let a rock star break my heart. When fate throws them together again, things really start to heat up. But will they figure out how to control their passions or will their love story end in ashes?

You know how a parent tells a child to do something and the child asks why, and the parent says, ‘Because I said so’? This is how I feel writing this review. Just read this book because I said so. Ha, ha. Seriously though, Love and Chaos is a fun-filled series. I read book one and while this review is for the second book in the series, I can’t wait to start the third one as I already have it waiting for me.

Rocked by Love is a romance with a hero named Rafe. He is the guitar player in a rock band called, Just Short of Chaos. The reason why the band chose its name is a good one and is relevant and explained in this story. Rafe is an easy hero to love especially if you adore rock bands, more so if you are a rock band groupie. I consider the setting in this story to be an accurate description of that music industry’s lifestyle. A lifestyle I’ve only dreamt about with my favorite bands. Rafe has guilt over something that really wasn’t his fault, but I can see how he blames himself. That is a personal conflict that he struggles with and ultimately changes his life for the better.

Rafe is fortunate that he met the heroine, Mia. Mia is grounded and has a calming effect on Rafe’s inner turmoil. He is able to talk and tell her things that he has never told anyone else. They are like two magnets drawn to each other. Once they started to get to know and understand each other, it was inevitable that sparks would ignite. What I love about this relationship is that they communicate with each other a lot, with and without words. It’s a little chilly here, and their love filled me up with warmth.

While Rocked by Love can be read as a standalone read, I’d advise a reader not to. I feel that way probably because of the way I grew attached to the other bandmates from the first story. I feel I have a relationship with them. This sense of family is what has me eager to start book three. There is more to this series than just a rock group. Each band member has a family. They all tease each other and make me laugh. There is a sense of camaraderie among the cast of characters.

The plot is heartwarming. The author’s writing style has a way of provoking appropriate emotions from the reader during certain plot threads. Without giving spoilers, there is definitely more to this story than meets the eye. I am not happy with the synopsis because I believe it gives away much of the story. Thankfully, I can assure you that it still leaves much for a reader to discover and I am grateful for that.

This is a steady, fast paced book. I didn’t want to put it down at all. I wasn’t sad when it ended because I know I have the third book waiting for me to start as soon as I finish this review. Reviewing has been a blessing in many ways. One particular blessing is the introduction to new authors. I’m going to add M.J. Schiller to my favorite author list. I find that I really connect to her stories and enjoy the reading entertainment she provides. Other readers should give this book and its series a try.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , ,

Wrong for Him by Christi Barth

February 10, 2022 By Leave a Comment


Wrong for Him by Christi Barth
Love Lottery Book Three
Publisher: Tule Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Amelia Kirkland’s been head-over-heels for Teague Sullivan forever. Not that she’s ever let him know—as her brother’s best friend, he’s officially off-limits. That’s even more true once they become partners in rehabbing a historic inn. She can’t risk what she’s building with her brother and her friends just to fulfill a lifelong crush. Can she?

When Teague left the Special Forces, he didn’t know what would come next. Until his best friend, Alex, won an inn as a lottery prize and made him a partner. It’s his shot at getting everything he’s always wanted. Except for Alex’s beautiful sister. Amelia’s friendship was a lifeline while he was deployed, but that’s a line he can’t cross. He owes his friend too much to betray his trust. Now, though? Working and living with her every day? He wants more.

If their secret romance is discovered, it could ruin everything before the inn has a chance. But does their one shot at happiness require them to break all the rules?

I love reading a book series because it gives me the feeling of coming home. Wrong for Him is book three in the Love Lottery series. I fell in love with the cast of characters in book one and my love only grew larger in book two. At the end of book three I felt like they were my family. There is ‘prim and proper/OCD’, Alex, who has a sister named Amelia. Amelia is the guru of landscaping and always wearing gardening clothes. Amelia and Everleigh are best friends. Everleigh is the latest fashion trend and social butterfly. Alex and Teague are best friends. Teague is the retired military buff. Therefore, Teague and Alex are like brothers to Everleigh. Teague is like a brother to Amelia. The main characters were brilliantly created in an opposites attract kind of way. They would tease and banter with one another making me laugh. They had each other’s back when something went wrong. They were in every sense a family. Technically they either came from a broken family or didn’t have a family.

The four main characters that I listed above are from the city and they play a lottery and win a historical inn located in a small town. The adjustment from city to country is a hoot. What I especially loved was how they were welcomed by the small town. The cast of characters grew spellbound and yet each new character was well developed and relatable. I’d go as far to say they are unforgettable.

It’s worth mentioning in my book two review I voiced my concern over not seeing a book four listed or to be announced. I was really looking forward to a love story between Nora, the inn cook and James the high school shop teacher. Well, I’m ecstatic to tell you that Nora and James’s love story was included in book three, Wrong for Him. It was a double romance story. Two for one. Although, the main romance was between Teague and Amelia. Therefore, I’ll stay focused on them.

Teague and Amelia are the classic “friends turned lovers” trope. It was tricky because Teague is Amelia’s brother, Alex’s best friend. They have the “best friend code about not dating sisters”. Teague is seven years older than Amelia. Teague also was adjusting to civilian life after leaving the military. Amelia had childhood trauma she was working through that affected her relationships with her brother and Teague’s. She was no longer a child and wanted to be taken seriously by the people that she loved and respected. The romance between Teague and Amelia is heartwarming, sensual, complicated and genuine.

There is more than meets the eye when regarding the plot. I was pleasantly surprised with the plot regarding the inn’s cupola. Readers will know what I’m talking about when they get to that part. I’m sad the series has come to an end. I will cherish the entertainment it provided me. I appreciated the epilogue at the end, let’s just say it gave me a definite ‘book glow’. I will have to add Christi Barth to my favorite author list. I absolutely loved her writing style in all three books in the series. The Love Lottery Book series will go on my keeper shelf.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , ,

Definitely Not Dating by Christi Barth

February 2, 2022 By Leave a Comment


Definitely Not Dating by Christi Barth
Love Lottery, Book two
Publisher: Tule Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

It’s a chance to start over for both of them…

Everleigh Girard always dates the wrong men at the worst times. The last debacle cost her a job and an apartment. But thanks to a crazy lottery win, she and her friends have a fresh start restoring a historic inn. Determined to make it a success, Everleigh swears off the dangers of dating entirely. Except…the town’s police chief is distractingly hot. So how much trouble could friends with benefits really cause?

Police chief Matt Halliday always puts protecting his town first. He’s blindsided when his house mysteriously burns down, and grateful his friends rent him a room at their inn while they finish renovations. It’s a great deal. Mostly. It’s hard to resist the very beautiful Everleigh. Love is permanently off the table for him—but lust is definitely on.

After their first red-hot kiss, keeping it casual is impossible. Can Everleigh teach Matt to trust again—especially when he’s keeping a secret that may put him and his new friends at risk?

Definitely Not Dating is book two in the Love Lottery series by Christi Barth. I read book one and each can be read as a standalone. However, I’m going to do you a favor and map out the characters. There are four friends who win a lottery. There is Alex who has a sister named Amelia. Amelia and Everleigh are best friends. Alex and Teague are best friends. Therefore, Teague and Alex are like brothers to Everleigh. Book one, The Accidental Fiancé, was the love story between Alex and a local town’s folk, Sydney. The second book, Definitely Not Dating is a love story between Everleigh and another local citizen, Matt. I actually want to write this review fast so that I can start the third book in the series. Ha, ha. The next one, Wrong for Him, is going to be a love story between Amelia and Teague and I’m seriously excited to start reading it. I have one main concern; I’m not seeing book four listed or announced yet! I am really looking forward to a love story between Nora, the inn’s cook, and James, the high school shop teacher. I’ve fallen in love with all these characters.

If the synopsis sounds interesting, then definitely pick it up and start reading. The secret that Matt is keeping is a good one. I was riveted to my seat worrying about what was going to happen next.

The romance between Everleigh and Matt is definitely sensual. They each have personal issues to resolve before they can learn to trust again. I enjoyed being part of their blossoming relationship.

I enjoyed everything about this book from style of writing, cast of characters to original plot development.

I wasn’t exaggerating when I said that I am in a hurry to start book three. So, I’m going to conclude with this: Definitely Not Dating is definitely a must read!

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , ,
« Previous Page
Next Page »