Tag Archives: romantic suspense

INSIDE SILENCE (Silence 2) by Freya Barker-review tour

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INSIDE SILENCE (Silence 2) by Freya Barker-review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 27, 2025

Savannah (Savvy) Colter is not easily overwhelmed, which is a good thing, since she is the sheriff of Edwards County. It’s rare to find someone her age— a woman to boot—carrying such responsibility, but over the years, Savvy has more than proven herself worthy of the position…to most.

However, when in a matter of a few weeks an old flame resurfaces in Silence, and two particularly violent murders land on her desk, her steady and predictable life becomes a little much to handle.

New full-time single parent, Nate Gaines, reluctantly returns to his hometown, Silence, to offer his teenage daughter some much-needed stability. As a contractor he can work anywhere, and it’s not like he left a particularly fulfilling life behind, but he’s not too sure how much work he’s going to get here.

Although, some of the changes he encounters in Silence are a surprise. The most shocking one is seeing the woman he once craved like air, now wearing the sheriff’s badge he so despises.

Coming home is definitely not turning out the way he’d envisioned. Especially when a sudden crime spree has the law knocking on his door…again.

••••••

REVIEW: INSIDE SILENCE is the second instalment in Freya Barker’s contemporary, adult SILENCE romantic suspense series focusing on the small town of Silence Washington. This is Silence sheriff Savannah (Savvy) Colter, and single father/ handy man Nate Gaines’ story line. INSIDE SILENCE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from several first person perspectives including Savvy and Nate INSIDE SILENCE follows in the wake of the arrival and return of the prodigal bad boy Nate Gaines. Fifteen years earlier, Nate Gaines and Savvy Colter were an item but Nate’s life was about to spiral out of control, and Savvy was left with a broken heart. Fast forward to present day Nate has returned to Silence Washington with his fourteen year old daughter Tatum in tow, looking for a fresh start in a town unwilling to forgive or forget but Silence is about to become a proverbial hotbed of crime, and our hero will be the focus of an investigation, and a victim as well. As Sheriff Savvy Colter opens her heart to the possibility of a second chance, a series of murders and missing people threatens Savvy’s long hard fight to remain in control.

The world building follows several paths including Nate Gaines’ less than welcome home. Guilty by association, accused of a crime he did not commit, Nate finds himself on the outside looking in wherever he goes. Hoping to reconnect with Savvy, Nate must come to terms with the past and present, as the people of Silence refuse to let go. Savvy is struggling with the investigation and murders but with each successive clue she is no closer to the truth.

The relationship between Savvy and Nate is one of second chances but the people of Silence are determined to keep them apart. From secrets and lies, to the ultimate betrayal Savvy continues to struggle with the return of Nate Gaines in the wake of revelations and her need for a man who broke her heart. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, interesting and questionable secondary and supporting characters. We are introduced to Savvy’s co-workers and fellow law enforcement officers: Trooper Auden Maynard, Savvy’s father and former sheriff Brant Colter and his wife Phyllis Dubois, Deputy Jeff Sanchuk, Deputy KC Kingman, chief deputy Hugo Alexander and his son Carson, as well as several townsfolk.

INSIDE SILENCE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, obsession and murder, family and relationships, forgiveness and love. The character driven premise is suspenseful, intriguing and dramatic; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are desperate, determined and dynamic.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one FINDING SILENCE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

USA Today bestselling author Freya Barker loves writing about ordinary people with extraordinary stories.

Driven to make her books about ‘real’ people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.

Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We’ve Read All Year Award for “Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!

Facebook: http://bit.ly/FreyaFacebook
Instagram: http://bit.ly/FreyaInstagram
Web: http://bit.ly/FreyaWeb
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/FreyaGoodreads
Newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/Freya_Newsletter
Bookbub: http://bit.ly/FreyaBookBub

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FINDING SILENCE (Silence 1) by Freya Barker-review tour

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FINDING SILENCE (Silence 1) by Freya Barker-review tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 25, 2025

Phyllis (Phil) Dubois has long left her performing days behind, opting for a more anonymous role in the music industry instead. Something not everyone is happy about.

When the pressure for her to return to the stage mounts, she packs her things in an old RV and hits the road in search of some peace and quiet.

She thinks she’s found it when she rolls into the small town of Silence.

Former sheriff, Brant Colter, is still trying to get used to his abrupt retirement after a health scare last year. He’s not good with change and likes things just the way they are.

That’s why, when a purple-haired hippie moves into the empty house down the road, he’s convinced trouble won’t be too far behind.

He’s not wrong. However, it’s not his annoyingly cheerful neighbor he should be worried about, but the danger that follows her to town.

•••••

REVIEW: FINDING SILENCE is the first instalment in Freya Barker’s contemporary, adult SILENCE erotic romantic suspense series focusing on the small town of Silence Washington. This is forty-six year old, retired singer Phyllis ‘Phil’ Dubois, and fifty three year old, former Sheriff Brant Colter’s story line.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Phil and Brant) FINDING SILENCE follows singer Phyllis ‘Phil’ Dubois as she settles in Silence Washington for some peace and quiet away from the spotlight and fame that had become overwhelming. Meeting grump, retired sheriff Brant Colter found out heroine enjoying a life she never thought about but a life that was about to take a dark turn. Someone is targeting our story line, and retired sheriff Brant Colter declares himself guardian and protector of the woman with whom he will fall in love. Brant Colter was forced into retirement in the wake of health scare, leaving his daughter as the new sheriff of Silence Washington. Struggling with his preconceived notions about our story line heroine, Brant’s barely veiled anger hides a deeper interest into the arrival of his new neighbor.

The world building follows several paths as Phil moves into Silence, and is welcomed by everyone but the former town sheriff. With the help of her business manager Grace, Phil settles into her new routine but not everyone is happy with her need to hide.

The relationship between Phil and Brant begins acrimoniously but Phil refuses to allow Brant to spoil her fun. Phil is hoping to relax and take some time to herself but the past is not far behind, and Brant is about to find the life of a former sheriff is never far behind. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate.

We are introduced to several townsfolk in Silence Washington including Brant’s daughter, the new sheriff Savvy Colter, as well as Phil’s business manager Grace, and former bandmate Duncan Brothers, and business man Roy Battaglia.

FINDING SILENCE is a story of betrayal and vengeance, family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is fast paced, intriguing and dramatic; the romance is seductive and impassioned; the characters are determined and dynamic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

USA Today bestselling author Freya Barker loves writing about ordinary people with extraordinary stories.

Driven to make her books about ‘real’ people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.

Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We’ve Read All Year Award for “Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!

Facebook: http://bit.ly/FreyaFacebook
Twitter: http://bit.ly/FreyaTwitter
Instagram: http://bit.ly/FreyaInstagram
Web: http://bit.ly/FreyaWeb
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/FreyaGoodreads
Newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/Freya_Newsletter
Bookbub: http://bit.ly/FreyaBookBub

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Code Name: Hunter/ The Foreman/ Sentinel of Talon Mountain

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Code Name: Hunter by Delta James & Annie Carlisle/ The Foreman/ Sentinel of Talon Mountain by Delta James

CODE NAME: HUNTER
(Club Opus Noir 2)
by Delta James & Annie Carlisle
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 29, 2025

They say I’m dead.Good. That lie has kept me alive for years.

I was MI6’s best, until an extraction mission in Prague went up in flames. Three agents died. One of them was Logan’s partner. Logan who is cold, relentless, and the only man who ever got under my skin. Now I’m back, and I need his help. I have something he wants, a ledger that could expose a black-market arms ring and shatter Cerberus from the inside. But Logan doesn’t trade in favors. He trades in control.

His terms are simple: I belong to him for the duration of the mission. Every breath, every move, every surrender, under his command. But as we spiral deeper into a world of shadows and lies, across glittering casinos, brutal fortresses, and private clubs where control is currency, I start to question everything I thought I knew, about the mission, about Cerberus, and about the man who holds all the power. Because the most dangerous thing I’ve ever done… Is let Logan Radcliffe back into my heart.

•••••

REVIEW: CODE NAME: HUNTER is the second instalment contemporary adult CLUB OPUS NOIR erotic, romantic suspense series co-authored by Delta James and Annie Carlisle, set in Delta James’ CLUB SOUTHSIDE/ CERBERUS worlds. This is former MI6 operatives Logan ‘Hunter’ Radcliffe and Vivian ’Nocturne’ Black’s story line. CODE NAME: HUNTER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspective (Logan and Vivian) CODE NAME: HUNTER follows in the aftermath of an assignment in Prague that went all to h*ll. Two agents reportedly died; their bodies never recovered, but for all intents and purposes, three died that day including our story line hero. Fast forward to present day, former MI6 agent Logan Radcliffe has been assigned to ferret out the woman he thought was gone, a woman whose information could take operatives world wide, information for which a group known as the Iron Choir is prepared to kill. As Logan and Vivian journey through Europe searching for a ghost, our couple struggle to trust one another in the wake of previous betrayals,secrets and lies.

The world building follows Vivian and Logan as they search for the truth. A former MI6 operative is presumed dead but as our couple follow the trail, not everything is as it appears to be.

The relationship between Vivian and Logan begins as an assignment but quickly turns into something more. Logan is determined to claim our heroine as his own, ensuring their Dom/sub relationship is more than a plan of action, ensuring a building trust that continues to implode. The $ex scenes are limited but erotic and provocative.

The secondary and supporting characters are energetic including the return of Fitz aka Fitzwallace; Cerberus agents Archer Hayes, and Darius; former MI 6 agent Sir Alistair Keene, former Operative Wolfe.

CODE NAME: HUNTER is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, trust and abandonment, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is intriguing and dramatic; the romance is limited but impassioned; the characters are determined and charismatic.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one CODE NAME: GHOST

Copy supplied for review

________

THE FOREMAN
(Cowboys of Silver Spur Security 6)
by Delta James
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

ABOUT THE BOOK :Release Date September 19, 2025

I ran from the law, the lies, and him. Now I’m hiding out in the one place more dangerous than his ranch.

I never expected to end up on the run for a murder I didn’t commit. One minute I was climbing the corporate ladder, the next I was being framed and hunted. Desperate and out of options, I turned to the only place I swore I’d never go back to, Silver Spur Security. And him.

Trace McRae.

The gruff, impossibly controlled Dom who once made me burn with nothing but a look. I defied him back then. Got myself banned from The Iron Spur. But now? He’s my last shot at staying alive. Trace agrees to help me, but on his terms. His house. His rules. His discipline.

Now I’m stranded on a remote Texas ranch with a man who delivers pain like poetry, sees straight through my sass, and makes my heart race for all the wrong reasons.

I don’t know what’s more dangerous, the killers closing in… or the way I’m starting to fall for the one man I swore I couldn’t handle.

••••••

REVIEW:THE FOREMAN is the sixth instalment in Delta James’ contemporary, adult COWBOYS OF SILVER SPUR SECURITY erotic, Dom/sub, romance series. This is rancher, co-owner of the Iron Spur / Iron Spur Enforcer, Club disciplinarian Trace McRae, and tech expert Macy Dane. THE FOREMAN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including Dom/sub and discipline situations, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Macy and Trace) THE FOREMAN follows three years after Macy Dane was banned from the Iron Spur for disobedience and brat-like behavior but Macy’s return comes with a target on her back, and she is hoping Dom Trace McRae, the man whom she loved, will help her prove to the authorities that she had been framed. Three years earlier, Macy Dane joined the ranks at Nexus Technologies but as the months and years passed, Macy discovered all was not right with the people in charged. Framed for espionage and treason, Macy knew the only man who could help, is the man who broke her heart but a man who is willing to risk his life for the woman he once loved.

The world building is fast and furious as our couple go on the run to protect our story line heroine but at every safe house and hideaway their presence is discovered, and with the help of the team at Silver Spur Security, they place a plan into motion to take down the people who attempted to destroy our heroine’s life.

The relationship between Macy and Trace is one of second chances. Macy never stopped loving the man who broke her heart but Trace knew that in an effort to teach Macy a lesson, a lifetime ban at the Iron Spur meant walking away from the woman he loved. The $ex scenes are erotic and provocative.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and determined secondary and supporting characters including the co-owners of the Silver Spur Security and the Iron Spur Exclusive Sex Club- Gavin Briggs, Hawke Turner, Reed Malone and Dawson Hart, as well as Jesse Bryant.

THE FOREMAN is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, espionage and treason, forgiveness and love. The fast paced, character driven premise is intriguing and entertaining; the rekindling romance is seductive and passionate; the characters are desperate, dynamic and charismatic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Trail Boss
The Wrangler
The Maverick
The Lasso Master
The Tracker

Copy supplied for review

________

SENTINEL OF TALON MOUNTAIN
(Men of Talon Mountain 3)
by Delta James
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 5, 2025

She came to Talon Mountain to disappear. He came to protect it. Neither expected a bullet to bring them together.

Wren Knox thought she’d buried her past in the Alaskan wilderness. But when a sniper’s bullet nearly takes her life, it’s clear the danger she fled is far from over. With nowhere else to turn, and unwilling to risk her friends, she shows up on the doorstep of Nate Barrett: former SEAL with a gruff attitude, and the one man who makes her feel anything but safe.

Nate doesn’t do distractions. And Wren Knox is nothing but, sharp-tongued, stubborn, and fierce as hell. She pushes every button he has… and lights a fire he can’t put out. But when the threats stalking her close in, desire turns to protection, and survival means risking everything, including their hearts.

In the wilds of Talon Mountain, passion burns hot, trust is hard-won, and danger is always one step behind.

••••••

REVIEW: SENTINEL OF TALON MOUNTAIN is the third instalment in Delta James’ contemporary, adult MEN OF TALON MOUNTAIN erotic, romance series. This is former Navy SEAL turned Wildlife Protection officer Nate Barrett, and Wildlife medic Wren Knox’s story line. SENTINEL OF TALON MOUNTAIN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Nate and Wren) SENTINEL OF TALON MOUNTAIN follows several timelines that coalesce in the present. Five year earlier,while working for Denali Search and Rescue, Wren Knox lost a friend, her teammate and the ensuing fall-out found out heroine leaving her life behind, and starting a new job as a Wildlife Medic on Talon Mountain but the past has returned, taking aim at Wren Knox, a past wherein several possibilities have targeted our story line heroine. Wildlife Protection Officer Nate Barrett knew it was time to move, and working as the Wildlife Protection Officer on Talon Mountain, brings our hero face to face with the woman with whom he will fall in love but a woman who has brought danger to along for the ride. Taking refuse with Nate, Wren finds herself not only battling the elements but an unknown foe, someone who is determined to take down our story line heroine. Nate Barrett is determined to protect his best friend’s sister but Wren is a woman who is used to working alone. As the enemy numbers increase, our couple must come to terms with what is happening and why. Someone has issued a contract against Wren Knox, and everyone is hoping to take her down for the ultimate prize.

The world building focuses on the protection of Wren as Nate and Wren work together to uncover the truth. The number of professional hitmen increases as the days go by, as Wren and Nate begin to circle the proverbial wagons in an effort to keep themselves alive.

The relationship between Nate and Wren begins as friend’s sister in need of help. Nate is best friend’s with Wren’s brother Caleb, another former Navy SEAL but our couple are determined to keep their relationship secret in the face of human hunters targeting their backs. The $ex scenes are passionate and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text although their timing could not have been more awkward 😉

The secondary and supporting characters are limited.We are introduced to Wren’s brother with Caleb Knox, as well as the return of former SEAL turned sheriff Zeke McAllister. The requisite evil has many faces

SENTINEL OF TALON MOUNTAIN is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, revenge and murder, friendships and love. The fast paced premise is dramatic and intriguing; the romance is limited but fated; the characters are desperate and determined. SENTINEL OF TALON MOUNTAIN ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one PROTECTOR OF TALON MOUNTAIN

Copy supplied for review

Reviews by Sandy

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The Bargain (Dalton Family 2) by Lisa Renee Jones-review tour

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🩷The Bargain (Dalton Family 2) by Lisa Renee Jones-review tour🩷

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play / Apple / Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Dat September 18, 2025

The enemy who seduced me tore my heart apart and then chased me down to do it again now wants to bargain with me.

Ethan Dalton is filthy rich, arrogant, and the man who crushed my father’s hopes of saving his business. He’s also gorgeous, a master of seduction, and charming. He wants something from me, and the bargain he offers is life changing, but there’s one catch, at least from my perspective. I’m falling for him, and falling hard, but he doesn’t have to know. He’s not that forever guy. And if I remember that, the bargain means pleasure and adventure, and when it’s over, the doors he’s opening for me means a brighter future for my family.

I can do this. And I can walk away.

What could go wrong?

•••••

REVIEW: THE BARGAIN is the second instalment in Lisa Renee Jones’ contemporary, adult DALTON FAMILY erotic, romance trilogy focusing on thirty six year old billionaire, investor Ethan Dalton, and twenty-nine year old, fashion designer Sofia Cameron. THE BARGAIN should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events and cliff hanger of book one MY ENEMY, MY OBSESSION.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Sofia and Ethan) THE BARGAIN follows in the wake of a business offer for fashion designer Sofia Cameron. Sofia is the owner of the fashion line known as Zoey, and the Dalton family business has offered Sofia a six week mentorship and internship in Paris but Sofia’s personal relationship with Ethan may be a potential conflict of interest, as was Ethan’s previous rejection of Sofia’s father’s business proposal . Sofia struggles with issues of trust and loss, and in this, Ethan is offering more than a business proposal, he is offering the possibility of a life-long commitment. Meanwhile, Ethan’s half-brother Grant’s latest business venture has placed the family owned Dalton Enterprises in a precarious position pushing Ethan’s ex deeper into our couple’s orbit, as Ethan offers to renegotiate as a prospective investor in Sofia’s father Robert Cameron’s business.

The world building continues to focus on promoting Sofia’s fashion line as our couple make plans for Paris, France. Sofia continues to struggle with her growing love for a man who could break her heart, while she watches from the sidelines as the Dalton family is pulled into a possible war.

The relationship between Ethan and Sofia is both personal and professional. Sofia battles between head and heart fearing the potential for conflict, hurt and betrayal. Ethan is determined to prove she is worthy of everything he has to offer including his money and his heart. The $ex scenes are limited but seductive and provocative including scenes of spanking, which the author adds to most of her erotic story lines.

THE BARGAIN is a fast paced story of power and control, relationships and dysfunction family dynamics, trust and forgiveness. The character driven premise is inviting and riveting but barely covers 48 hours in the life ; the romance is spicy yet tender; the characters are determined and charismatic. THE BARGAIN ends on a cliff hanger- you have been warned.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one MY ENEMY, MY OBSESSION

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

 

“Come inside.” I tug him forward.He captures my arm and tugs me close. “I want nothing more than to walk you into your house, press you against the wall, and fuck you until you’re obsessed with me the way I’m obsessed with you.”

I’m still stunned at how overwhelmingly dominant he can be, but I don’t know why. This is Ethan. And I like this about him. I like how he makes me feel. “And the problem with that is what?”

“You believe this is nothing but fucking, Sofia. And it’s not. As much as it’s going to kill me, I’m going to win my spot back in your bed. I’m going to get a hotel room.”

I grab his sides, and my heart is charging in my chest. “No. No, I don’t need you to do that.”
“I think you do, baby. I think that’s exactly what you need to understand that this is real. And that’s the only way I make you stand with me instead of running from me.”

“I don’t want you to leave. That is not what I want. Ask me what I want right now, Ethan. Ask me what I want with you.”

“What do you want, Sofia?”

“Too much. That’s what I’m afraid of. Wanting too much. Of getting hurt. And the times when that hits me, when that messes with my head, is when I’m alone and have too much time to think. I overthink, and in our case, I overthink about why this can’t possibly work. So just to be clear, there is no version of what I just told you that says go to a hotel room. If you came here for me, that’s where I want you. With me.”

He stares down at me, studying me again, several heavy beats passing before his mouth crashes over mine in a ravenous, over-too-soon kiss before he’s walking me backward. We’re barely inside, and he’s already kissing me, kicking the door shut, and we don’t bother with the light. He turns me and flattens me against the wall, his big body framing mine, the thick pulse of his erection pressing to my belly. “Leaving you and going to a hotel room defied every male part of me that wants to strip you naked and show you why we’re good together. I will not give you the time to think me out of your life. I know you don’t believe me yet, but if we were fuck buddies, I’d make you come to me, or I wouldn’t bother. But I’ve already decided I will chase you until you stop running.”

“I’m not going to run again.” I laugh a small laugh. “I hope. I’ll try.”

“I can live with that answer.”

For several seconds, we just stand there, staring at each other, the rich, warm heat of our attraction to each other a living, breathing part of the room, and I can feel the separation of our time apart fade away. His mouth crashes over mine, and I’m not holding back or talking myself out of anything but the stupidity of walking away from my clothing brand or this man. I’m in this, all in, in a way I have never been with anything or anyone in my life.

 


 

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads

Copy supplied for review

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lisa Renee Jones is the author of the highly acclaimed INSIDE OUT series. Suzanne Todd (producer of Alice in Wonderland) on the INSIDE OUT series: Lisa has created a beautiful, complicated, and sensual world that is filled with intrigue and suspense. Sara’s character is strong, flawed, complex, and sexy – a modern girl we all can identify with.

In addition to the success of Lisa’s INSIDE OUT series, she has published many successful titles. The TALL, DARK AND DEADLY series and THE SECRET LIFE OF AMY BENSEN series, both spent several months on a combination of the New York Times and USA Today bestselling lists.

Prior to publishing Lisa owned multi-state staffing agency that was recognized many times by The Austin Business Journal and also praised by the Dallas Women’s Magazine. In 1998 Lisa was listed as the #7 growing women owned business in Entrepreneur Magazine.

To find out about Lisa Renee Jones’ upcoming releases and giveaways, sign up for her newsletter here

For more information on Lisa Renee Jones  and her books visit: https://www.lisareneejones.com/

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Blade’s Edge (L.A.S.T. Defense 1) by Patricia D Eddy-review

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Blade’s Edge (L.A.S.T. Defense 1) by Patricia D Eddy-review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play /

Jasper

The explosion should have killed me. Some days, I wish it had. Chronic pain keeps me up at night—when I don’t drown it in beer. I lost my partner, my career, and the only reason I had to get up in the morning.

Until my brother drags me to a charity event and a sexy-as-sin reporter practically falls in my lap. We shouldn’t start anything. I’m a broken-down has been and she’s doing her damnedest to move back to Los Angeles. But when her latest scoop leads to death threats, I’ll do anything to keep her safe.

Emi

Moving back to Austin was supposed to be temporary. My grandmother was dying, and I couldn’t let her be alone. But a year away from network news might as well be a lifetime. Especially when you’re pushing forty. If I don’t get back into the national spotlight soon, the only stories I’ll be covering are cat adoption events and cheating scandals at the local senior center.

So when I hit on the biggest story of my career, I should keep my eyes on the prize. Not go on a date with a former Texas Ranger who has every right to hate me.

I won’t let a little danger keep me from the truth. But what if Jasper’s the one who pays the price?

•••

REVIEW: BLADE’S EDGE is the first instalment in Patricia D Eddy’s contemporary, adult L.A.S.T. DEFENSE romantic suspense series. This is former Texas Ranger, Lieutenant Jasper Blade, and forty year old, reporter Emmylou ‘Emi’ Marsh’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Jasper and Emi) BLADE’S EDGE follows in the aftermath of an explosion and suspension of our story line. An undercover investigation into the Cordova Cartel ended with an explosion, two law enforcement dead, and Jasper Blade fighting for his life. Fast forward eight months , now former Texas Ranger Jasper and his twin brother Captain AJ Stone reconnect at an awards dinner where Jasper will come face to face with the reporter he kicked out of his hospital room eight months earlier. Emmylou Marsh didn’t want to do a fluff piece about awards and rubber chicken dinners but as the mentor to a new on-air fashion reports, Emi finds herself face to face with our story line hero but when Emi begins an investigation into bribery and fraud of a new upscale hotel and banquet centre, our heroine becomes the target of some powerful people. Refusing to back down, Emi finds herself with a protector and guardian in the guise of our story line hero when the FBI and local PD refuse to offer protection.

The world building focuses on Emmylou Marsh’s investigation into bribery and the Cartel. Determined to get her story and reveal the corruption in Austin Texas, our heroine, often TSTL is focused on the ultimate prize, a story and the take down of some corrupt businessmen. Jasper only knows that to protect Emi he is going to have to take control, control of a woman who is too independent to back down.

The relationship between Emi and Jasper begins acrimoniously but when our heroine is threatened, Jasper refuses to stand down and watch as her life implodes. In hiding, our couple find themselves falling for one another but another betrayal is about to take aim at our story line couple. There are no sex scenes, everything is implied.

We are introduced to Jasper’s brother AJ, a man struggling since the disappearance of the woman he loves, as well as Sargeant Parker Elmore. The requisite evil has many faces.

BLADE’S EDGE is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, greed and obsession, acceptance and love The action packed, character driven premise is intriguing and captivating; the romance is subtle; the characters are dynamic and determined.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Ice Cold Liar (Ice Breaker Cold Case 14) by Cynthia Eden-review

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Ice Cold Liar (Ice Breaker Cold Case 14) by Cynthia Eden-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 24, 2025

She is beautiful, charming, and guilty as sin.

Ebenezer “Eb” Jones is in the mood for deadly payback. He knows that Naomi Romano killed his friend and former CIA partner. The cops suspected her, the DA wanted to charge her, but the woman was far too smart for them. She slipped away from justice. Or so she thinks. He’s about to make certain that she pays for her crimes. A life for a life. He will absolutely wreck her life. Promise made.

He’s dangerous, conniving, and cold-blooded to the core.

Lying is second nature to Eb. Pretending to be someone else is as easy as breathing. So he works to slip past Naomi’s guard. To learn her secrets. And he will learn those secrets. Even if he has to seduce them all from her beautiful, lying lips. Does that make him cold-blooded? Guilty as charged. It’s a dirty job, but someone has to do it.

Another enemy is stalking his prey.

Eb isn’t the only predator who wants justice. Naomi is being hunted, and Eb has to step in and shield her from a series of deadly attacks. Everywhere she turns, Naomi faces danger. He pretends to be the good guy, the savior that she needs. She breaks before him, desperate for help, and Eb realizes the woman is either one very fine actress…or maybe she’s not the killer he thought.

•••••

REVIEW: ICE COLD LIAR is the fourteenth instalment in Cynthia Eden’s contemporary, adult ICE BREAKER COLD CASE romantic suspense series focusing on a group of men and women who work for Ice Breakers, a former online team of crime solvers whose goal it is to solve cold cases. This is former CIA operative Ebenezer ‘Eb’ Jones, and Naomi Romano’s story line. ICE COLD LIAR can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Eb and Naomi) ICE COLD LIAR follows in the wake of the murder of Eb’s former CIA partner Hudson Wyatt. Married only a few hours, Hudson Wyatt was found murdered , and his new wife was the prime suspect but there was not enough evidence, and the DA never pressed charges, therefore Ebenezer Jones was determined to get justice for his friend and partner Hudson Wyatt, targeting Naomi Romano himself. From the outset , Ebenezer struggled to trust or believe Naomi’s proclamation of innocence but when our heroine is targeted, Ebenezer become guardian and protector of the woman with whom he is falling in love.

The world building focuses on Naomi’s struggle to prove she is innocent, and Ebenezer’s need to seek justice for the friend whom he lost but all was not as it appeared to be-someone was taking aim at our story line heroine. With the help of Ice Breaker investigators Hunter McQueen and Memphis Camden, Eb is determined to uncover the truth but a deep dive asks more questions than answers, and our couple find themselves at the mercy of a potential killer.

The relationship between Eb and Naomi begins acrimoniously as Eb is single-minded in his need to take down our story line heroine but, once again, there is something about Naomi that calls to his heart, and his inability to trust, threatens the life of the woman with whom he is falling in love. The $ex scenes are passionate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of energetic, dynamic and often questionable secondary and supporting characters from law enforcement, organized crime, and an embattled MC including Ice Breaker agents Memphis Camden, and former US Army Ranger Hunter McQueen; CIA Handler Madeline Desalt; and Detective Clark Anderson. The requisite evil has many faces.

ICE COLD LIAR is a story of secrets and lies, power and control, betrayal and vengeance, obsession and murder, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is dramatic and edgy but I suspected the who and why of the guilty party(s) early on; the romance is spirited; the characters are stubborn and determined.

 

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Frozen in Ice
Falling for the Ice Queen
Ice Cold Saint
Touched by Ice
Trapped in Ice
Forged From Ice
Buried Under Ice
Ice Cold Kiss
Savage Ice
Locked In Ice
Brutal Ice
Cruel Ice
Forbidden Ice

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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MONTANA JUSTICE (Resting Warrior Ranch 11) by Josie Jade-review

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MONTANA JUSTICE (Resting Warrior Ranch 11) by Josie Jade

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 1, 2025

She ran to save her life.
Now the man she once betrayed is her only hope.

Home to both the Resting Warrior Ranch and Pawsitive Connections, Garnet Bend, Montana is a small town full of big heroes. Anyone would want to live there.

Anybody but Piper Matthews.

She swore she’d never come back after what her father did to the town and what she did to Sheriff Lachlan Calloway. But desperation has a way of rewriting promises. With a baby in her arms and nowhere left to run, Piper returns to the only place that ever felt like home.

Lachlan never expected to see Piper again—especially not with a child that has his eyes. The woman who once disappeared without a word is now sleeping under his roof, guarding more secrets than she’s willing to share.

She says she’s done running. But Piper’s past is closing in fast—and it’s darker, more dangerous, and more tangled up in Lachlan’s world than he could ever imagine.

In a town built on quiet loyalty and buried lies, the truth is about to break everything wide open.

•••••

REVIEW: MONTANA JUSTICE is the eleventh instalment in Josie Jade’s contemporary, adult RESTING WARRIOR RANCH erotic, romantic suspense series co-authored with Janie Crouch. This is Sheriff Lachlan Calloway, and twenty-seven year old Piper Matthews’ story line. MONTANA JUSTICE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. RESTING WARRIOR RANCH series is a spin off from Janie Crouch’s ZODIAC TACTICAL series

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Lachlan and Piper) MONTANA JUSTICE follows in the wake of the return of Piper Matthews to her hometown of Garnet Bend, Montana. Eight years earlier the Matthews family were run out of town but Piper’s return came with years of abuse and grooming. A one-night stand with Sheriff Lachlan Calloway ends when Piper ghosts our story line hero, only to return approximately one year later, desperate for help in the wake of too many secrets and lies including the birth of her son, Lachlan’s child. Struggling to settle , Lachlan suspects there is more to Piper’s story but the truth is much larger than he could have ever imagined.

The world building follows several paths including law enforcement’s desperate attempts to track down a drug dealer who is specializing in designer drugs but the deeper Lachlan begins to dig, the enemy is always one-step ahead of our story line hero. As Piper’s emotional fragility continues to spiral, lies are about to reveal a betrayal for everyone involved. The sins of the father weigh heavily on a young woman whose life has never been under her control

The relationship between Lachlan and Piper is one of second chances, of a sort. Lachlan had recognized Piper from years earlier but her family’s reputation is destroying any hope for Piper’s permanent return. Lachlan wants a happily ever after with the woman who gave birth to the child he never knew but Piper’s secrets are about to destroy any chance of happiness for our story line couple. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of familiar and energetic secondary and supporting characters many of whom we met in the previous story lines and original series. From law enforcement, to employees and crew at Resting Warrior Ranch, as well as the burned and spurned locals of Garnet Bend, not everyone is pleased with the return of our story line heroine.

MONTANA JUSTICE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, corruption and mistreatment, family and relationships, forgiveness and love. The character driven premise is dramatic, edgy and captivating; the romance is fated and provocative; the characters are desperate, dynamic and broken.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Montana Sanctuary
Montana Danger
Montana Desire
Montana Mystery
Montana Storm
Montana Freedom
Montana Silence
Montana Rain
Montana Heat
Montana Memory

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Extraction (Stonewall Trilogy1) by JL Drake -review tour

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Extraction (Stonewall Trilogy1) by JL Drake -review tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters/Indigo / Apple /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 26, 2025

Agent Paul is a soldier of many faces—
a ghost, an undercover operative, a team leader.

But those are just titles.

When a letter lands in his hands, everything changes. The past he buried resurfaces with a single revelation—his son.

Returning to the cartel world he barely escaped is a mission he can’t face alone. His brothers rally behind him, shifting their current operation to follow a trail that leads into the darkest corners of Mexico. What they encounter is far more than intel.

A pawn.
An heir.
A child.

Nicole Winter is a war correspondent with a reputation for chasing the truth. Smart. Relentless. And already three steps ahead. When their paths collide, she’s holding the one document Paul needs—and carrying secrets of her own.

As trust is tested and loyalties blur, the mission spirals. When Paul vanishes mid-operation, Nicole is left with one impossible task—to get the boy out alive.

Even if it costs her everything.

•••••••••

REVIEW: EXTRACTION by JL Drake is the first instalment in JL Drake’s contemporary, adult STONEWALL dark, suspense series set in the author’s WORLD OF MAYHEM. This is Stonewall Agent Paul and war correspondent Nicole Winter’s story line.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers from more sensitive readers.

Told from three first person perspectives (Paul, Nicole and Bruno) EXTRACTION follows in the wake of a notification for Agent Paul. A couple of years earlier, while undercover in Mexico with the Mexican Cartel, Paul fathered a child he knew nothing about. A letter arrived from the woman he left behind, letting Paul know she gave birth to his son but Paul will not be the only person searching for the child-the Cartel is determined to claim the child as their own, and no one will stand in their way. War correspondent Nicole Winter has found herself at the mercy of the Cartel, having befriended numerous members and controlling parties but Nicole has been ordered to find the missing child, and return the child to the Cartel. Along the way, Nicole encounters Agent Paul, and with the help of the Blackstone organization,find themselves on the hunt but at every opportunity, someone else is ready to take them down.

The world building is detailed and complex as the Blackstone soldiers must rescue a child they have never seen but a child that belongs to one of their own. Nicole Winter never expected to come face to face with the group of former soldiers who will lay down their lives to protect the innocent but Paul’s past is about to come full circle, and Nicole has no idea as to the depths of his secrets.

The relationship between Paul and Nicole is slow to build as most of the time is spent on the run, trying to stay one-step ahead of the Mexican Cartel. Paul and his team are working from one side, while Nicole is forced to operate within the parameters of the Mexican Cartel.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including several characters from the Broken, Blackstone and Blackwater series. We are introduced to war correspondent Nicole Winter, her cameraman Benjamin Bale, and several members of the Mexican Cartels.The requisite evil has many faces.

EXTRACTION is a story of betrayal and vengeance, obsession and madness, power and control, secrets and lies, deseperation and determination. The premise is dark, dramatic and edgy; the characters are strong-willed and stubborn. EXTRACTION ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

J.L. Drake is a bestselling author with multiple series published in several different countries. The Broken Trilogy is her best seller, and her next series, Quiet Mafia, has the same kind of homey feel sprinkled with some yummy darkness.

She was born and raised in Nova Scotia, Canada, later moving to southern California. Though she loves the weather in Cali, she would sell her left kidney for a good rainstorm. Jodi’s love of the seasons back home in Canada definitely put in an appearance in her books.

When she’s not writing, you can often find her sitting somewhere along the coast of Huntington Beach, reading, or at home curled up on a couch with her two children and husband, binge watching Marvel movies.

SOCIAL MEDIA: Website / Goodreads / Facebook /  Instagram/

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