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The Lost Ones (Detective Jackie Cooke #1)
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The young woman was sitting as though she might get up at any minute, her dark brown hair hanging...
Merissa (11953 KP) rated His Boy to Cherish (Naughty or Nice Season Two) in Books
Dec 28, 2021 (Updated Jul 9, 2023)
HIS BOY TO CHERISH is part of the Naughty or Nice Season Two series, and I am over the moon to announce Jayden gets his HEA!!!!
Oh, man! I fell for Jayden in Greeking Out and my heart hurt for him because the Daddy he got was definitely NOT one on the caring scale. And it was obvious from the very beginning that THAT is what Jayden not only wants but needs.
Bless him, you find out about Jayden's life and he's had it rough but he keeps up appearances and leaves his mask firmly in place as no one wants a grumpy boy. It is up to Ben to prove to him that he wants him no matter what, through joy and sadness, through pain and sorrow, as well as good times. And boy, does Ben step up to the mark!
This has a light Christmas theme, as in they first meet on Boxing Day and their courtship takes place over the Christmas period. Ben and Jayden instantly click but both have questions -- which is completely understandable!
I loved how Troy and Apollo were here but didn't take over the story. I really want Jude to have his own too. Yes, I'm greedy!
A warm and fuzzy story that is absolutely recommended by me. It is heartwarming and sincere and left me with a huge smile on my face. Loved it!
** 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!
Dec 28, 2021
Oh, man! I fell for Jayden in Greeking Out and my heart hurt for him because the Daddy he got was definitely NOT one on the caring scale. And it was obvious from the very beginning that THAT is what Jayden not only wants but needs.
Bless him, you find out about Jayden's life and he's had it rough but he keeps up appearances and leaves his mask firmly in place as no one wants a grumpy boy. It is up to Ben to prove to him that he wants him no matter what, through joy and sadness, through pain and sorrow, as well as good times. And boy, does Ben step up to the mark!
This has a light Christmas theme, as in they first meet on Boxing Day and their courtship takes place over the Christmas period. Ben and Jayden instantly click but both have questions -- which is completely understandable!
I loved how Troy and Apollo were here but didn't take over the story. I really want Jude to have his own too. Yes, I'm greedy!
A warm and fuzzy story that is absolutely recommended by me. It is heartwarming and sincere and left me with a huge smile on my face. Loved it!
** 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!
Dec 28, 2021
Merissa (11953 KP) rated Always (Single Dads #4) in Books
Mar 30, 2021 (Updated Aug 2, 2023)
ALWAYS is the fourth book in the Single Dads series, and this time we meet Adam, Eric's friend. He now lives in Sean, Eric, and Leo's old house, where he is recuperating from a career-losing injury. He is able to offer a couple of rooms to rent for one of his friend's friends and his son. Cam is trying to hide from the media and wronged people for a while before he disappears again.
Adam does not have it easy - and this story helps bring to light his constant physical pain and mental anguish when someone treats him like he's fragile. Cam has his own injuries, but they're all on the inside. He is (understandably) skittish and is determined to make it to Montana, where he is convinced a better life awaits him and Finn.
This one wasn't as 'light and fluffy' as the others and previous couples still play a big part in the story, especially Eric as he was a co-worker and has his own guilt to contend with. I thought the pacing was perfect, and the storyline was smooth and kept my interest from beginning to end. There are some sexy scenes but they certainly don't take over the story.
This was a great addition to the series, and I can't wait for Nick's story. Definitely recommended by me.
** 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!
Mar 30, 2021
Adam does not have it easy - and this story helps bring to light his constant physical pain and mental anguish when someone treats him like he's fragile. Cam has his own injuries, but they're all on the inside. He is (understandably) skittish and is determined to make it to Montana, where he is convinced a better life awaits him and Finn.
This one wasn't as 'light and fluffy' as the others and previous couples still play a big part in the story, especially Eric as he was a co-worker and has his own guilt to contend with. I thought the pacing was perfect, and the storyline was smooth and kept my interest from beginning to end. There are some sexy scenes but they certainly don't take over the story.
This was a great addition to the series, and I can't wait for Nick's story. Definitely recommended by me.
** 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!
Mar 30, 2021
Merissa (11953 KP) rated Malice (Mortisalian Saga #4) in Books
Feb 11, 2021 (Updated Aug 7, 2023)
MALICE is the final story in the Mortisalian Saga, and we continue where we left off. Cass is heavily pregnant, Damon is still a dream, Ras is still missing, Zander is gone, Alexa is a mess. I think that's us caught up!
As the final book in the saga, you REALLY need to read the others to understand just what the hell is going on. There is no easing into this world. You are there, right in the middle of everything, so just deal with it. Personally, I wouldn't have it any other way.
For a big part of this book, Cass' world is at war, so if you are expecting a gentle walk through the park, you are sorely mistaken. There is blood, pain, and violence, but all of it is written so beautifully. And yes, before anyone asks, my eyes were leaking again! I thought my heart was breaking but then I had to smile. This is the power over words that Ms. Stock has. Simply sublime.
A fast-paced story, I was worried I wouldn't get a 'proper' ending, but my fears were groundless. I got a happier ending than I was anticipating, which made it all the more perfect.
Such a fantastic series, I am sad at the thought of it ending but am so thrilled I have read it all. Definitely one to keep and re-read! Highly recommended!!!
* 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!
Feb 11, 2021
As the final book in the saga, you REALLY need to read the others to understand just what the hell is going on. There is no easing into this world. You are there, right in the middle of everything, so just deal with it. Personally, I wouldn't have it any other way.
For a big part of this book, Cass' world is at war, so if you are expecting a gentle walk through the park, you are sorely mistaken. There is blood, pain, and violence, but all of it is written so beautifully. And yes, before anyone asks, my eyes were leaking again! I thought my heart was breaking but then I had to smile. This is the power over words that Ms. Stock has. Simply sublime.
A fast-paced story, I was worried I wouldn't get a 'proper' ending, but my fears were groundless. I got a happier ending than I was anticipating, which made it all the more perfect.
Such a fantastic series, I am sad at the thought of it ending but am so thrilled I have read it all. Definitely one to keep and re-read! Highly recommended!!!
* 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!
Feb 11, 2021
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Tease ( Vixen Bluff 4) in Books
Sep 22, 2023
135 of 235
Kindle
Tease ( Vixen Bluff 4)
By C.Black/Catherine Black
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Forgiveness or Revenge. Tucker and Caroline must choose just one. You'd think the decision would be simple. You'd be wrong. Tucker I thought I was smart enough to stay away from Vixen Bluff, Texas—the place where I was relentlessly bullied as a teen—but I've proven myself wrong. After ten years serving my country, I'm back in my hometown with two weeks to spare, a single suitcase, and one tattered invitation to my high school reunion. I'm all geared up to show those who caused me the most pain just how far I've come. But that all changes the second I crash into the fence surrounding Vixen Bluff Animal Sanctuary. Caroline I'm a lot of things nowadays: Hermit, artist, animal savior...and rehabilitated bully. My most tortured victim and biggest regret? Tucker Beckett. When I see him again, I can hardly believe my eyes. Gone is the shy, awkward beanpole I terrorized, and in his place is a man capable of handling himself and whatever life throws his way. With Tucker back in town, a million-and-one questions descend on me. Can I prove to him I'm no longer the cruel, vindictive girl I used to be? Will he grant me his forgiveness if I ask for it? Or will a grudge that's lasted fifteen years continue to define both of our adult lives?
This was my favourite I loved it!! One of those truly feel good stories I finished it within an hour I couldn’t put it down!
Kindle
Tease ( Vixen Bluff 4)
By C.Black/Catherine Black
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Forgiveness or Revenge. Tucker and Caroline must choose just one. You'd think the decision would be simple. You'd be wrong. Tucker I thought I was smart enough to stay away from Vixen Bluff, Texas—the place where I was relentlessly bullied as a teen—but I've proven myself wrong. After ten years serving my country, I'm back in my hometown with two weeks to spare, a single suitcase, and one tattered invitation to my high school reunion. I'm all geared up to show those who caused me the most pain just how far I've come. But that all changes the second I crash into the fence surrounding Vixen Bluff Animal Sanctuary. Caroline I'm a lot of things nowadays: Hermit, artist, animal savior...and rehabilitated bully. My most tortured victim and biggest regret? Tucker Beckett. When I see him again, I can hardly believe my eyes. Gone is the shy, awkward beanpole I terrorized, and in his place is a man capable of handling himself and whatever life throws his way. With Tucker back in town, a million-and-one questions descend on me. Can I prove to him I'm no longer the cruel, vindictive girl I used to be? Will he grant me his forgiveness if I ask for it? Or will a grudge that's lasted fifteen years continue to define both of our adult lives?
This was my favourite I loved it!! One of those truly feel good stories I finished it within an hour I couldn’t put it down!
Merissa (11953 KP) rated Kiss of Forever (Shadow Creek #3) in Books
Aug 24, 2017
Kiss of Forever (Shadow Creek #3) by Leah Blake
The Shadow Creek series is one that I am loving. Kiss of Forever is the third book in the series, and this time we focus on the Alpha of Shadow Creek, Raul, and the enigmatic vampire, Victor. After reading Vuk and Ashly's book, you know that these two are intertwined somehow, but it's only once you start reading Raul's side of things that you learn just what he has done for the past 20 years to protect Victor. Yeesh, that man has a will of iron! Okay, so he had some magical help, but still...
Victor doesn't know why Raul has rejected him for so long, and now that Raul is sick, and getting sicker by the hour, he can't bear to see him in pain. Not once does Victor come across as a 'poor me' type of guy, desperately clinging onto someone who doesn't want. Instead, we see someone who has a will just as strong as the Alpha, who just wants the truth.
The story is more in-depth in this one, as we learn the twists and turns that have landed Raul and Victor in their positions. Pairs from previous stories also play a part in this story, although Vuk and Ashly get more of a mention simply due to who they are. This was exceedingly well-written, with no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. I think there is still so much more to come, and I have no hesitation in recommending this book and the series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Victor doesn't know why Raul has rejected him for so long, and now that Raul is sick, and getting sicker by the hour, he can't bear to see him in pain. Not once does Victor come across as a 'poor me' type of guy, desperately clinging onto someone who doesn't want. Instead, we see someone who has a will just as strong as the Alpha, who just wants the truth.
The story is more in-depth in this one, as we learn the twists and turns that have landed Raul and Victor in their positions. Pairs from previous stories also play a part in this story, although Vuk and Ashly get more of a mention simply due to who they are. This was exceedingly well-written, with no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. I think there is still so much more to come, and I have no hesitation in recommending this book and the series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Haley Mathiot (9 KP) rated Immortalis Carpe Noctem (Immortalis, #1) in Books
Apr 27, 2018
Alyssa never asked to become a vampire, but when handsome Lysander changes her in order to save her from two brutal rapists and murderers, she is forced to live with his decision. She soon learns the history of her new kind, her new abilities, and starts falling head over heels for her handsome savior. But just when things look like they can't be all that bad, the strongest known coven--whose leader has been holding a grudge against Lysander--and the most dangerous group of vampire hunters on earth show up. Now Alyssa has to use her newly found skills to save herself--and the man she loves.
I really enjoyed Imortalis Carpe Noctem. I tore through it in a few hours, and regretted having to put it down. It was very addicting and fast paced, especially the action scenes at the end, quite entertaining, and not to over-dramatic.
Imortalis was, in some ways, a typical vampire novel: having to escape would-be-vamp-rulers, running from vampire hunters, falling in love with a handsome vampire. The thing that made it worth reading was the characters and their emotions. They had so much character to them, and Alyssa's feelings were so real and—pardon me, human—that they were incredibly relatable. I felt like I was Alyssa, I could feel her pain and her joy, her love and her loss.
The writing was pretty good, except there was some careless editing and misuse of comas. They were everywhere they shouldn't be for some reason, as if the computer put them in willy-nilly. It wasn't so much of a distraction that I couldn't enjoy the book, however.
I am anxiously awaiting the sequel Imortalis: Hunter & Prey as well as Salidas' other upcoming novels.
Content: little language, some sex.
Recommendation: Ages 18+
I really enjoyed Imortalis Carpe Noctem. I tore through it in a few hours, and regretted having to put it down. It was very addicting and fast paced, especially the action scenes at the end, quite entertaining, and not to over-dramatic.
Imortalis was, in some ways, a typical vampire novel: having to escape would-be-vamp-rulers, running from vampire hunters, falling in love with a handsome vampire. The thing that made it worth reading was the characters and their emotions. They had so much character to them, and Alyssa's feelings were so real and—pardon me, human—that they were incredibly relatable. I felt like I was Alyssa, I could feel her pain and her joy, her love and her loss.
The writing was pretty good, except there was some careless editing and misuse of comas. They were everywhere they shouldn't be for some reason, as if the computer put them in willy-nilly. It wasn't so much of a distraction that I couldn't enjoy the book, however.
I am anxiously awaiting the sequel Imortalis: Hunter & Prey as well as Salidas' other upcoming novels.
Content: little language, some sex.
Recommendation: Ages 18+
Bookapotamus (289 KP) rated How to Walk Away in Books
May 25, 2018
READ THIS BOOK. That is all.
OK just kidding. That's not all. But really. There is not one bad thing I can say about this book. It's honest, it's painful, it's funny, it's refreshing. I sailed through it and I didn't want it to end. It's one of those uplifting stories that is disguised as a story of pain, and heartbreak. But did I mention it's funny too!?
Margaret seems to have it all. The job, the boyfriend, the apartment, the fiancé.... a super bright future of loads of money, the crazy hot guy to wake up next to, and endless white picket fences. And then everything changes.
Most of her story takes place in some pretty gut-wrenching hospital situations. Her fiancé may not be as great as she thought, the bright future may not be as bright anymore, and her family has some pretty serious skeletons that are about to rock her world.
And then there's Ian {{swoon!}} - who doesn't want a brooding, rock hard, gorgeous man with a Scottish accent in their life? Yes, please! Ian is gruff and salty, and pushes Margaret to extremes that make her hate him but thankful for him all at the same time... who is this guy?! And what is his story?!
It's almost a journey of Margaret becoming Maggie. The so-called picture-perfect life she had all buttoned-up, just may have been buttoned too tight, and a major life-changing event could show a side of her she never imagined possible.
I adored this book. It's so inspiring and the end was not the typical end I imagined it would be. It was refreshing, and honest, and brutal at times, but a definite new favorite. I'm adding this to my top 5 of 2018. Great story, and highly recommend!
OK just kidding. That's not all. But really. There is not one bad thing I can say about this book. It's honest, it's painful, it's funny, it's refreshing. I sailed through it and I didn't want it to end. It's one of those uplifting stories that is disguised as a story of pain, and heartbreak. But did I mention it's funny too!?
Margaret seems to have it all. The job, the boyfriend, the apartment, the fiancé.... a super bright future of loads of money, the crazy hot guy to wake up next to, and endless white picket fences. And then everything changes.
Most of her story takes place in some pretty gut-wrenching hospital situations. Her fiancé may not be as great as she thought, the bright future may not be as bright anymore, and her family has some pretty serious skeletons that are about to rock her world.
And then there's Ian {{swoon!}} - who doesn't want a brooding, rock hard, gorgeous man with a Scottish accent in their life? Yes, please! Ian is gruff and salty, and pushes Margaret to extremes that make her hate him but thankful for him all at the same time... who is this guy?! And what is his story?!
It's almost a journey of Margaret becoming Maggie. The so-called picture-perfect life she had all buttoned-up, just may have been buttoned too tight, and a major life-changing event could show a side of her she never imagined possible.
I adored this book. It's so inspiring and the end was not the typical end I imagined it would be. It was refreshing, and honest, and brutal at times, but a definite new favorite. I'm adding this to my top 5 of 2018. Great story, and highly recommend!
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2165 KP) rated Murder on Lenox Hill in Books
Feb 13, 2019
My First Disappointment in This Series
It’s a cold winter’s day when midwife Sarah Brandt is summoned to the Linton home. When she arrives, it is to discovered they are worried about their daughter Grace. While biologically almost a young woman, mentally she is still a child. And yet, her parents think she is pregnant. Sarah’s examination confirms their suspicions, but Grace never leaves them. How could this have happened to her? Who would take advantage of her like that? Meanwhile, Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy has been summoned to see Sarah’s father. Mr. Decker wants Frank to work further on his investigation into the murder of Sarah’s husband, Tom. Decker insists that Tom was not that man that Sarah thought he was, and he is certain that this investigation will help Sarah learn the truth. Is Decker correct? Can Frank find the truth while sparing Sarah from any pain?
Yes, my discussion about a current murder is missing on purpose since the body isn’t found until late in the book. There is still plenty of plot to keep us engaged until that happens, but unfortunately it felt very predictable. I had most of this book figured out long before Sarah and Frank did. I’m often a step or two ahead of them, but not this far ahead. I do still recommend this book to series fans since there are some significant developments on series arcs in this book, and you’ll want to see what happens there. The subject matter is fairly sensitive, but it is handled delicately without going into too much detail. Don’t make this the first in the series you pick up, but if you are already a fan, you’ll want to know what happens to Sarah and Frank here.
Yes, my discussion about a current murder is missing on purpose since the body isn’t found until late in the book. There is still plenty of plot to keep us engaged until that happens, but unfortunately it felt very predictable. I had most of this book figured out long before Sarah and Frank did. I’m often a step or two ahead of them, but not this far ahead. I do still recommend this book to series fans since there are some significant developments on series arcs in this book, and you’ll want to see what happens there. The subject matter is fairly sensitive, but it is handled delicately without going into too much detail. Don’t make this the first in the series you pick up, but if you are already a fan, you’ll want to know what happens to Sarah and Frank here.
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated I Can Only Imagine in Books
Feb 25, 2019
Several years back, I was driving down the road. I was listening to a Christian radio station, loving the songs that were there. Then I hear the words, "I can only imagine...." and proceed to listen to the song. By the second verse, I had to pull over and listen closely. By the end of the second verse, I was bawling my eyes out, had my hands raised and was "praying" the song to the Lord. It was emotional and moving, and I knew that there had to be a story behind. This was the start of my love of MercyMe's work.
Flash foward several years, now there's a movie called "I Can Only Imagine". I watch the trailer. I cry, yet again. from the feelings I get. Now, I have the chance to review the memoir,which I read in one day, about the story behind the song and movie. And, oh my. What. A. Story. It's raw. It's moving. It will leave you smiling, it will leave you crying, it may even leave you angry. But, it will bring you closer to God. It will make you fall to your knees once again, and really imagine what that moment would be like when you stand before your Creator.
This is not a book I normally would pick up, as I'm not fond of memoirs, but this book, with it's pictures to coincide with Bart Millard's life, is beautifully, poignantly written and really brings forth the pain, the hurt, the anger and the redemption and forgiveness he went through. This is definitely one I recommend, with 5 stars and lots of praises! I can't wait to see the movie next!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Flash foward several years, now there's a movie called "I Can Only Imagine". I watch the trailer. I cry, yet again. from the feelings I get. Now, I have the chance to review the memoir,which I read in one day, about the story behind the song and movie. And, oh my. What. A. Story. It's raw. It's moving. It will leave you smiling, it will leave you crying, it may even leave you angry. But, it will bring you closer to God. It will make you fall to your knees once again, and really imagine what that moment would be like when you stand before your Creator.
This is not a book I normally would pick up, as I'm not fond of memoirs, but this book, with it's pictures to coincide with Bart Millard's life, is beautifully, poignantly written and really brings forth the pain, the hurt, the anger and the redemption and forgiveness he went through. This is definitely one I recommend, with 5 stars and lots of praises! I can't wait to see the movie next!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*