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Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) created a post

Nov 14, 2022 (Updated Nov 14, 2022)  
Sneak a peek at the Christian romantic suspense series LOVE & HONOR by Hallee Bridgeman on my blog with a fantastic book trailer! Each of the books can be read as a standalone. Be sure to enter the giveaway for your chance to win all three books in the series and a $50 Bookshop.org gift card!

https://alltheupsandowns.blogspot.com/2022/11/book-blog-tour-and-giveaway-love-honor.html

**BOOK SYNOPSIS FROM THE FIRST BOOK IN THE SERIES**
You can't override the heart.

It may seem odd to seek peace by moving to a war-torn African country, but for medical missionary Dr. Cynthia Myers, it provided a way to escape a shallow life of unearned wealth, a philandering fiancé, and a father now square in the public eye as vice president of the United States. At least here she knows her work and life have meaning. But all that is thrown into chaos when she fails to save the life of a local warlord's mortally wounded son.

As part of the Army Special Forces A-Team on a mission to capture and subdue the warlord, Captain Rick Norton is compelled to use deadly force to save Cynthia's life. Enraged at the violence she witnessed and riddled with guilt that men died because of her, Cynthia doesn't want to like anything about Rick and his team--but an unexpected attraction is taking hold.

With two members of his team badly injured and rebels in hot pursuit, Rick will have to draw upon all his strength and cunning to get her out alive . . . because he's beginning to think that, despite their differences, they just may be able to make a life together.
     
Sebastian's Fate (Etherya's Earth #7.5)
Sebastian's Fate (Etherya's Earth #7.5)
Rebecca Hefner | 2023 | Paranormal, Romance, Science Fiction/Fantasy
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
SEBASTIAN'S FATE is the seventh and half book in the Etherya's Earth series and it's time for Sebastian to lift his head up from his desk and see what's been in front of him the whole time. Celine has loved him for centuries and just wants him to see her for who she really is. She comes up with a plan and, with Mila's help, gives Sebastian an evening he can't forget.

I loved Sebastian in Garridan's story and couldn't wait for his own. I love how his workaholic tendencies are from a desire to help, not just to lose himself. And he isn't too proud to admit when he's made a mistake or needs help. Celine is constrained by society's demands and expectations. Sebastian has never seen her as anything other than Garridan's would-be mate but she has ideas and ambitions, plus a very definite naughty side that no one else has seen.

This is just a novella and could have been so much more. I really hope we see more of these, as well as Garridan and Siora, when Mila gets her story. She has to have her own story. It's a must! This was a fantastic addition to the series and I have no hesitation in recommending it. I would recommend you begin at the start though, just to ensure you don't miss out on any of the goodies!

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
  
Camboy (My Kinky Housemate #6)
Camboy (My Kinky Housemate #6)
Colette Davison | 2023 | Contemporary, LGBTQ+, Romance
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
CAMBOY is the sixth and final book in the My Kinky Housemate series and I'm not ready for this series to be over!!!

Hendrix has been a character from the beginning, loving his role as House Brat but showing snippets of so much more. He about broke my heart in this one, I will admit. How he missed Rory, Callan, and Aiden really tugged on my heartstrings. It would take someone (or someones) rather special to get Hendrix to commit.

Enter Lyric, Toby, and Rubin.

I will admit, I thought it might be Toby and Rubin, Lyric and Hendrix, but I am happy to say I was wrong. Each of these characters brings something unique to the story. Each of them has their insecurities and histories to deal with and it is a case of everyone helping each other, with more than enough love to go around.

And can I just give a huge shout-out to Arthur!!!! Oh, man. He's the best and I loved every scene with him in it. I'm glad he got to tell his story and found a new friend too.

This series has been absolutely fantastic, taking various kinks and people, and combining them all together into heartwarming, funny, serious, hot, stories that give you the warm fuzzies with each tale. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND the whole incredible series and suggest you start at book one, just so you get the full experience.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
  
Immortal Beginnings (Etherya's Earth #4.5)
Immortal Beginnings (Etherya's Earth #4.5)
Rebecca Hefner | 2022 | Paranormal, Romance
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Well-written, well-paced, loving, kind, tender, and HOT!
IMMORTAL BEGINNINGS takes place after Evie has beaten Crimeous. Dragos was a Deamon in the war, fighting as a soldier in a war he didn't agree with but had no choice in. Raina is the widow of a Vampyre who died in that war. She moved home due to the memories and found herself living next to Dragos.

This is so sweet! Seriously! Dragos is... oh, I just want to give him a hug! And then maybe climb him like a tree. If there's something I love it's a man who is manly and also tender and loving. Dragos is all of the above. Raina has her concerns, which are all completely understandable, but Dragos is there to help her work through them.

I don't like novellas. I'm greedy and always want more. This is no exception. So why the five stars? Because it's too good not to. I may want more - more backstory, more current events, more hope for the future (although the epilogue is pretty damn good) - more everything but that is no reason to not give five stars where they are due. Everything that is here is well-written, well-paced, loving, kind, tender, HOT!

This was a fantastic addition to the series and I have no hesitation in recommending it - even if it is 'only' a novella! 😉

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
  
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Merissa (12066 KP) rated Cycled (Gold Hockey #13) in Books

Oct 18, 2021 (Updated Jul 12, 2023)  
Cycled (Gold Hockey #13)
Cycled (Gold Hockey #13)
Elise Faber | 2021 | Contemporary, Romance
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
CYCLED is the thirteenth book in the Gold Hockey series but you can read it as a standalone as I have.

Scar has had her own issues to deal with, both in personal and work relationships. So when she starts to fall for Kaydon, she does everything in her power to avoid him. This, in turn, leads him to think she dislikes him. When circumstances arise that prove she likes him, Kaydon isn't about to take no for an answer, unless it truly is something she doesn't want. With his coaxing, Scar is able to overcome her past traumas, and realise just how good a catch she actually is.

Although this is written from both perspectives, I would say this is more Scar's book than Kaydon's, simply because he is the one with a loving family, whereas hers are a bit... different! Her brother, Charlie, has his own story to tell and, lucky me, is next! The relationship Scar has with him is completely different to that of her parents, and was wonderful and warm.

There is some fantastic dialogue in this book, that will make you smile, make you laugh, and even make you want to cry. Watching Scar take a stand was sheer poetry in motion.

A brilliant addition to the series that I have no hesitation in recommending.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Oct 18, 2021
  
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Merissa (12066 KP) rated Bound (Blood Moon, Texas Shifters #3) in Books

Oct 21, 2021 (Updated Jul 12, 2023)  
Bound (Blood Moon, Texas Shifters #3)
Bound (Blood Moon, Texas Shifters #3)
Kat Kinney | 2021 | LGBTQ+, Paranormal, Romance
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
BOUND is the third book in the Blood Moon, Texas Shifters series and this time, it's Topher and West's story.

Oh, man. Where do I start? Do I start with the fantasy geekdom that runs rife through this story? Or maybe with the leaking Omega magic that bound Topher (initially) against his will to West? Or maybe how their feelings have grown but West is still so unsure of being worthy to anyone, let alone Topher? Or maybe I should go out on a limb and talk about family loyalty and what it's like to look for a father and a brother, both of whom have disappeared without a trace?

This is an amazing story that is rich in detail and intricate enough to keep you on your toes. Family is a big theme all the way through, and obviously, it's not always blood family either. Family by bond is a big thing and I LOVE IT!

The overall story arc has moved along, helped no end by this story, and I can't wait to see where it will go next. There are some steamy moments but mainly, it's all about connection.

Bound is a fantastic addition to the series, one that I highly recommend, and I can't wait for Brody and London, who come next. Watch out for sparks!

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Oct 21, 2021
  
Smith's Corner: Layla & Levi (The Heartwood Series #2)
Smith's Corner: Layla & Levi (The Heartwood Series #2)
Jayne Paton | 2021 | Contemporary, Romance
8
9.3 (4 Ratings)
Book Rating
SMITH'S CORNER: LAYLA & LEVI is the second book in the Heartwood series. This time, the focus is on Layla, Delilah's mum, and so we learn her past and the secrets she was hiding in book one.

Trust me when I say this is not easy reading. There is a trigger warning for a reason. There is nothing graphic but what is there, made my stomach churn. I really felt for Layla. Levi is just as much of a sweetheart as Dallas is. He knows he was in the wrong at their first meeting, and does everything he can to prove he is the right man for Layla and Cora. And I say both because, in Levi's mind, they are a complete package.

There are some very funny moments in this story, plus others that are heartbreaking. I loved how the story came out and the various reactions. The bachelor/bachelorette parties were hysterical, and the wedding was gorgeous.

Ash and Alora are next and I really can't wait for their story. In fact, I can't wait for ALL the stories, but I will be content with one at a time.

A fantastic addition to the series that I am thoroughly enjoying. I have no hesitation in recommending this book, but I would suggest you read them in order, just to get the full enjoyment out of all the characters.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 27, 2021
  
The Ranch Hand and the Single Dad (Farthingdale Ranch #3)
The Ranch Hand and the Single Dad (Farthingdale Ranch #3)
Jackie North | 2021 | Contemporary, LGBTQ+, Romance
10
10.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
THE RANCH HAND AND THE SINGLE DAD is the third book in the Farthingdale Ranch series, and I would recommend you read them as a series simply because of how wonderful these stories are.

Austin has been put through the wringer by his delight of an ex-wife, and he has to cope with not having full custody of his daughter. He is unsure of who he is or what he wants, but he finds peace at Farthingdale Ranch due to his friendship with Clay.

Clay thinks that one-night stands are all he needs and doesn't always say what he wants. With the help and encouragement of Austin, Clay realises that life could be so much more than just a hookup.

This was a brilliant low-angst read with a slow-burn romance that filled me to the brim with warm fuzzies. I loved seeing the previous couples and seeing how their romances were going whilst still enjoying the spotlight on the main pair. And, of course, using recycled wisdom is some of the best advice you can give or receive!

A fantastic addition to the series, I would still recommend you read this as a series to ensure you don't miss out on any of the previous couples. For now, though, I can highly recommend Austin and Clay's story.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 27, 2021
  
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Merissa (12066 KP) rated Blood Pact (Youkai Bloodlines #2) in Books

May 7, 2021 (Updated Jul 26, 2023)  
Blood Pact (Youkai Bloodlines #2)
Blood Pact (Youkai Bloodlines #2)
Courtney Maguire | 2021 | LGBTQ+, Science Fiction/Fantasy
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
BLOOD PACT is the second book in the Youkai Bloodlines series, and we start off with Hiro. He is a geisha, taken in from the street, and now a man of renown because of his voice. When a local thug takes offence at Hiro entertaining a samurai; Hiro's world is torn apart.

This isn't a romance story, per se. It is diving into the world of the mythological, fantastical, and horrible. Hide would do anything for Hiro, apart from showing it! And Hiro has enough heart for both of them. Even Asagi recognises that. Yes, they are in here too, but I don't think life has treated them kindly since last we met. I do so want a HEA for them, back with their maker.

Although this is book two, as Hiro puts it, this is only the beginning. I love where the story is going, plus the character development and supporting cast. You end up with more questions than answers, and it's just perfect for this series. This book is long enough to sink your teeth into (!), and is perfectly paced, giving you action and then a time of rest. Diving into cultural mythology is a bonus for me.

A fantastic addition to the series and absolutely recommended by me. I can't wait to see what happens next.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 7, 2021
  
The Spellcaster's Trap (The Familiar Curse #1)
The Spellcaster's Trap (The Familiar Curse #1)
Cassandra Lawson, C.L. Bright | 2021 | Paranormal
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Okay, so where do I start? The Spellcaster's Trap is the first book in The Familiar's Curse series, and we start off with Juliet at seven years old, when her father tells her the story of how the shapeshifters and spellcasters war came to be. Fast forward ten years and Juliet is now with her not-so-nice stepmother, who arranges for her to die. Simply put, that doesn't happen.

I LOVED THIS STORY! I was intrigued from the very beginning, and I loved the connection Juliet and Dante had. The acknowledgement of Romeo and Juliet made me smile, and I thought that both Dante and Juliet acted very maturely given the circumstances, knowing they couldn't be together. Did I want them to be? Hell yeah!!! These two NEED to be together.

History is often twisted and warped through time and, as is often said, is written by the victors. Having both spellcasters and shapeshifters acknowledge this point made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. That was a good thing because this ends with one helluva cliffhanger that about killed me! I need the second book, like right now.

The pacing was perfect, the characters are fantastic - although not always in a good way! Nicholas, I'm looking at you!!! - and the world-building was awesome. There's simply no way I couldn't give this 5-stars. Absolutely recommended by me, and... when is Book 2 out? Please?

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 5, 2021