Review card – Page 84

Review Card & Book Review – The Hero By Susan Stoker

Any soldier who gets out of the service with his life should be happy to leave danger behind. Though his army brothers are content running their new business in Maine, Kendric “Bob” Evans isn’t ready to give up the fight. He’s been supplementing his hours with covert rescue missions organized by the FBI. But his latest charge may be more than he bargained for.

Marlowe Kennedy is on a routine archaeology dig in Thailand when she’s arrested for drug trafficking. She has suspicions about the true culprit, but even when she’s rescued from prison, there’s nothing she can do about it without proof. Her protective bodyguard’s only objective is to keep her safe until they cross the border into friendly territory.

The best way to do that? Travel as man and wife.

After returning to Maine, as Bob and Marlowe navigate this treacherous terrain with the help of their friends, they face vengeful authorities, a vindictive frame job, and perhaps most important of all―turning their fake marriage into something real.

About The Author

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Four men in captivity decide their post-Army futures with a game of rock, paper, scissors, settling in Newton, Maine, to open a Lumberjack and trail guide business. Kendric “Bob” Evans has secretly continued rescue missions worldwide, including one to save anthropologist Marlow Kennedy wrongfully imprisoned in Thailand. Their fast-paced escape and instant connection lead to a marriage of convenience, but danger follows them back to Maine. The story, with its familiar warmth and suspense, feels like coming home to a good book. The series promises more excitement, with anticipation for the final book focusing on JJ.

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Review Card & Book Review – Finding Friends At The Cornish Country Hospital By Jo Bartlett

A fresh beginning…

Esther Hamilton, is finally finding her feet after her split with her horrible ex, and is looking forward to her new single life. She has a job she loves in the busy Accident and Emergency department, a new home and for the first time ever, a chance to just have fun with her good friends. Love is very much off the cards…

An old friend…

Until the arrival of Joe Carter – the brother of Esther’s best friend, Danni. Joe is also newly single and still as gorgeous as ever, but Esther can’t lose her heart to Joe. If it all went wrong, she’d lose two of her best friends.

A second chance at love?

But working together over a troubled patient, the connection between them is undeniable. And when Esther’s parents’ marriage hits trouble, Joe is there for her, offering her support, and Esther knows she’s fallen hard.

Are they brave enough to take a risk on love, or are they d

About The Author

My Review

Day-to-day life in the Accident and Emergency department of Cornish Country Hospital is vividly portrayed in this engaging read, capturing the routine, drama, and relationships among the staff and patients. Esther, a nurse, navigates her friendships and relationships, including with her best friend Danni and her ex, surgeon Lucas. Living next door to Danni’s brother, Joe, Esther finds herself drawn to him but hesitant to pursue a relationship. When a traumatic case puts Esther in a difficult situation, Joe becomes a valuable ally. Meanwhile, Esther’s parents’ struggles add depth to the story. With well-drawn characters, a slowly developing romance, and realistic issues, this beautifully told story balances darkness with warmth and humor, making it a compelling read.

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Review Card & Book Review – Hunted Hotshot Hero By Lisa Childs

A killer’s after the man

…he used to be

Who’s more dangerous: The saboteur targeting Rory VanDam’s hotshot team or Brittney Townsend, the hot reporter asking too many questions? Maybe the secrets Rory has had to keep since he survived a plane crash are more dangerous than both of them. When a killer pursues the guarded firefighter and relentless journalist, it’s Rory’s past that could cost them their lives. And his reluctant attraction to the newswoman could make him expose the shocking truth.

About The Author

My Review

Rory, a hotshot team member, faces attacks by a saboteur, while Brittney, a determined reporter, investigates a plane crash involving Rory and Ethan. Their paths collide when Brittney is threatened and Rory ends up watching over her. Despite initial distrust, they team up to uncover the attacker’s identity. As their bond grows, so does the danger, leading to a thrilling confrontation. Secrets are revealed, and feelings emerge as they face unexpected foes. The book sets up a compelling mystery surrounding the saboteur within the hotshot team, leaving readers eager for the next installment.

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Review Card & Book Review – Highland Fling With Her Boss By Karin Baine

A SWEET TEMPTATION!

Running her own chocolate shop in a Highland castle is a dream come true for Bonnie. Working with her reluctant new boss, Ewen, is not… The brooding tycoon is infuriating and disarmingly attractive in equal measure, but fragile Bonnie can’t chance her heart again. A fling, however, could be just what they both need… It’s only supposed to be fun—and temporary! Except now Bonnie begins to wonder if Ewen is the second chance she never saw coming…

About The Author

My Review

The story revolves around Bonnie, who escapes an abusive relationship and plans to open a chocolate shop at a Scottish castle. However, upon arrival, she discovers the duke has passed away and his son, Ewen, is reluctant to honor their plans. Despite initial resistance, Bonnie stands her ground and eventually wins Ewen’s cooperation. As they work together, their friendship blossoms into attraction, but past traumas make them hesitant. Misunderstandings and fears threaten their relationship, but they overcome obstacles and find a sweet ending.

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Review Card & Book Review – Forbidden Nights With The Paramedic By Alison Roberts

A DANGEROUS TEMPTATION!

After a family trauma, self-proclaimed playboy Edward is living life to the fullest. On his first day with Aberdeen-based air rescue paramedics, he’s floored by the instant crackle of electricity he experiences with crew partner Jodie. It’s clear heartbroken Jodie’s not willing to risk another workplace romance, but a secret fling could be just what they need! Will forbidden nights together lead to the forever they’ve been too scared to consider?

About The Author

My Review

Eddie returns to Scotland to support his injured brother Mick, joining an air ambulance crew where he’s attracted to coworker Jodie, who’s hesitant due to past trauma. Their relationship evolves from friendship to a secret fling, but Jodie’s fears cause her to pull away. Eddie’s patience helps them reconcile. The book explores their emotional journey amidst vivid medical events. Although the story felt rushed, I’m curious to see how the series develops in the next book.

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Review Card & Book Review – A Surprise Second Chance By Anna J. Stewart

Could a secret…

Bring them together?

Lush rainforest, magical sunsets and a welcoming community—Nalani has everything botanist Daphne Mercer needs…except the only man she ever loved. Griffin Townsend broke her heart years ago. Now he’s in Hawai’i on vacation, a single dad with two kids. Daphne is charmed by Griff’s little family, and he longs for a second chance. But will she forgive him when she learns his true reason for seeking her out?

About The Author

My Review

“A Surprise Second Chance” is Daphne Mercer’s story, shedding light on her backstory and her role as a member of the Ohana Odysseys crew. Daphne’s warm and genuine personality, coupled with her natural talent with plants, make her a lovable character. As she reconnects with her high school sweetheart, Griff, their reunion is complicated by Griff’s parental responsibilities. Despite the challenges, the pull between them remains strong, leading to tender moments and swoon-worthy kisses. However, the novel delves deeper into themes of complicated parental relationships and prioritizing others’ needs over one’s own. Anna J. Stewart handles these themes with sensitivity, exploring raw emotions and the journey towards healing. The story also celebrates the importance of chosen family, exemplified by the embrace of Nalani and Ohana. With engaging characters, witty dialogue, and heartfelt moments, “A Surprise Second Chance” is a delightful and emotionally resonant read that leaves a lasting impression.

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Review Card & Book Review – Matzah Ball Blues By Jennifer Wilck

Why is this night different from all other nights?

For starters, Jared Leiman is home for the holidays. Because though he and Caroline Weiss were high school sweethearts, their postcollege lives took them in different directions. Jared became a big-time entertainment lawyer in LA, while Caroline became a fitness instructor and stayed in town to care for her sick mother. And though her mother passed away three years ago, Caroline is finally free to go where she chooses. Meanwhile Jared, who inherited custody of his baby niece after a tragic accident, is suddenly a family man.

So now Caroline wants to leave her hometown in the dust, whereas Jared might just set up roots there. Because there is one thing that Browerville, New Jersey, offers the two of them that no other place does…each other!

About The Author

My Review

“Matzah Ball Blues” follows entertainment lawyer Jared Leiman as he returns home for Passover, grappling with his brother’s death and newfound responsibility as a guardian to his niece. During his visit, he reconnects with his high school sweetheart, Caroline Weiss, reigniting old feelings. As they navigate their rekindled romance, Jared confronts his past mistakes and Caroline embraces newfound freedom. While their love story unfolds amidst Passover traditions, a secondary plot involving potential fraud at Caroline’s workplace adds intrigue. Despite a slower pace and some repetition, author Jennifer Wilck’s excellent representation of Jewish traditions adds depth to the story. Though the romance may feel somewhat lacking in foundation, Wilck’s attention to detail makes “Matzah Ball Blues” engaging for readers interested in Jewish culture and traditions.

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Review Card & Book Review – Invitation To Italy By Victoria Springfield

Abi is distraught when her ex-husband Alex takes their twelve-year-old daughter, Chloe to spend the summer with his glamorous fiancée Marisa and her parents at their home on the beautiful Italian island of Procida. Persuaded by her best friend to book a holiday at the island’s Hotel Paradiso, Abi finally meets the woman she’s been avoiding for so long. Will the two women’s strained relationship survive the summer?

One-time teenage swimming sensation, Loretta, has run the Hotel Paradiso since leaving Capri broken-hearted. When childhood friend Salvo comes to stay, Loretta is forced to confront her past and the fears that have kept her away from the water for forty years. But just as she finds the courage to open her heart, she discovers all is not as it seems with Salvo…

It’s a summer of new beginnings for Abi and Loretta – and one they will never forget.

About The Author

My Review

This is a captivating tale that takes readers on a journey to the picturesque island of Procida, off the coast of Italy. Abi, a single mother still reeling from her past marriage, finds herself unexpectedly traveling to Procida to check on her daughter, Chloe, who is visiting her ex-husband’s new family for the summer. What unfolds is a multi-layered story filled with parallel narratives, including the perspectives of characters like Loretta, the owner of Hotel Paradiso, and Flavia, Marina’s mother. The vivid descriptions of Procida and its surroundings immerse readers in the beauty of the setting. As relationships develop and secrets are revealed, the novel explores themes of heartache, motherhood, and the healing power of love. With subtle romance and heartfelt moments, it is a delightful read that will leave readers yearning to explore Italy’s hidden treasures.

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Review Card & Book Review – Love, Unscripted By Denise Hunter

The perfect boyfriend only exists on paper…doesn’t he?

Fresh off the heels of a bad breakup, Chloe Anderson poured her heart into penning the perfect boyfriend—and the result was an off-the-charts debut beach read that resonated with women worldwide. Now, Chloe’s scripted hero is headed for Hollywood, with her book destined to become a major motion picture.

When Chloe gets wind that silver screen bad boy Liam Hamilton has been cast as the ideal-in-every-way hero of her novel, she’s horrified by the film director’s choice. How could a player like Liam possibly do Chloe’s perfect hero justice? Unafraid to speak her mind, Chloe lets her executive producer know she’s one hundred percent opposed to the casting. And oops—the call is on speakerphone, where the annoyingly attractive Hollywood star hears Chloe’s unbridled outrage firsthand.

With Liam’s reputation already on the rocks, his agent concocts a PR plan to upgrade Liam’s image while putting the story—and the film—in the spotlight. The catch? During the movie’s filming in Chloe’s cute hometown of Stillwater, North Carolina, Chloe and Liam will fake a wholesome, committed relationship. Both stand to gain something from the arrangement. Liam’s fans will see him in a new light, while Chloe can boost her struggling social media following and further her writing career. What could possibly go wrong?

As author and actor navigate the waters of the PR relationship, they’re unprepared when their professional agreement turns into an actual friendship. And when serious sparks start to fly—well, that’s an unread chapter for both of them.

About The Author

My Review

“Love, Unscripted” by Denise Hunter is a captivating romance set in the small southern town of Stillwater, North Carolina. Chloe Anderson, a local author, finds herself in a dilemma when the actor Liam Hamilton, whom she despises, is cast as the lead in the movie adaptation of her bestselling romance novel. Despite their initial animosity, Chloe and Liam strike a deal to fake a relationship to boost Liam’s image and Chloe’s social media status. As they navigate the challenges of their fake relationship, they discover unexpected truths about themselves and each other. The book explores themes such as alcoholism, divorce, forgiveness, and the importance of communication and trust in relationships. With humor, romance, and poignant moments, “Love, Unscripted” is a touching story that will resonate with readers. The audiobook, narrated by Kathleen McInerney, brings the story to life and is highly recommended for fans of southern romance novels.

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Review Book & Book Review – Lean On Me By Beth Moran

As Faith tries on her future mother-in-law’s wedding dress in preparation for her own wedding, her tears are not of joy. The hideous frock is nicknamed ‘The Ghost Web’ by Faith’s best friend Marilyn, who can’t understand why Faith would even consider wearing it. But there’s a lot Marilyn doesn’t know about Faith – not the least of which is that Faith is just the latest of the names she has called herself.

Faith and her brother Sam survived a traumatic childhood which included having to change their names to hide from the past, but surviving has left scars. Faith’s generous fiancé Perry doesn’t just promise to be a partner, he offers freedom and security, and enough kindness to keep Faith squashing down any doubts on what ‘being in love’ really means.

It’s not until she meets an extraordinary group of women at the Grace Chapel choir, that things start to become crystal clear. As choir-leader extraordinaire, the indomitable Hester, holds a mirror up to her ragtag group of singers, all with their own burdens and insecurities, and teaches them to see how magnificent they are, so Faith can dare to dream of a future where she and Sam can stop running and she might even be ready to accept the love that she deserves.

About The Author

My Review

After a traumatic early life, Faith’s marriage to Perry offers the safety she craves and a chance to support her troubled brother, Sam. However, navigating her future mother-in-law’s control over the wedding plans proves challenging. In her quest for independence, Faith discovers Grace Chapel, where she finds solace in a unique choir that changes her life. The character development is outstanding, with Faith’s journey and her friendship with Marilyn being particularly poignant. The choir, led by the remarkable Hester, provides a bond for the women as they confront their pasts and find their true selves. Despite dark moments, the story is filled with laughter, family, friendship, and community, creating an uplifting and emotionally resonant read. With beautiful writing and engaging storytelling, this book is truly unforgettable and highly recommended.

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