Hide and Seek Freya’s Bower

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Angela Chaney
Publisher: Freya’s Bower

REVIEW:

Helen Quinn is single mother to her baby son, Matthew. She works in a museum, and her speciality is all things Egyptian. Matthew’s father and family haven’t wanted anything to do with the child since his birth. Until recently. Helen has the constant threat of Matthew’s grandmother fighting for custody of the baby, but she doesn’t know why. Her roof needs fixing, and she’s awaiting news from the bank about a loan she requested.

Imagine her surprise when she opens the door to a man who accuses her of already borrowing money from his loan shark uncle. A vast sum of money. Though good looking, Helen doesn’t appreciate this man barging into her home with his demands. Conscious of her baby in the house, she tries to work out how to get rid of him. However, the man has other ideas…

Lorenzo arrives at Helen’s to retrieve the money she borrowed from his uncle Gino. Unaware she has a child, he demands that she accompany him to his uncle’s house to explain why she hasn’t repaid the money. Armed with a photograph as evidence of Helen borrowing the money, he persuades her to go with him.

While Helen takes Matthew to her friend’s, Lorenzo snoops around Helen’s home to find more evidence that she has borrowed the money. He doesn’t believe her claims that she didn’t borrow a cent.

Once at Gino’s, it becomes apparent that Helen is telling the truth and that her twin sister, Audrey borrowed the cash in Helen’s name. The plot unravels. Helen and Lorenzo follow Audrey’s trail and, upon finding a scary package and having one delivered, Helen realises her sister is involved in something beyond anything she would have imagined. Sinister Egyptian priests are after Audrey and have been since the sisters were children. Audrey, intent on finding out why their parents were killed, has dragged Helen into a web of intrigue, thrills, and corruption.

Helen and Lorenzo must find Audrey—who has gone to Egypt—and get her out of danger. A solid main plot, brilliantly weaved sub-plots, Hide and Seek is a thrill a minute. A romance tale of the highest calibre, this is one of my favourite tales so far this year. Join Helen and Lorenzo on their quest to solve the mystery of Helen’s past. I guarantee you won’t regret it. After all, Lorenzo is one man you’ll want to fall in love with time and time again.

Cruising the Green of Second Avenue Wild Child Publishing

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Walter Giersbach
Publisher: Wild Child Publishing

REVIEW:

Story 1: Frank Cassidy and the Canarsie Chick

Frank is someone others see as an easy target for their jokes. He doesn’t have much luck with women either. One day, he meets Ramona. Ramona buries him in the sand on the beach with hilarious consequences.

Fun line: Frank should have had girls on him like rats fighting over a bagel.

Story 2: The Kid’s Got Smarts

Benny has a high IQ. Unfortunately, this doesn’t run to knowing what to do with the opposite sex. Benny needs advice, and he takes it—literally.

Fave line: One January afternoon, I sat at home when it was cold enough to freeze your words in mid-air.

Story 3: Laura Lard Takes no Prisoners

Allen loves overweight women. He has always been attracted to them, seeing their personalities rather than what they look like. He falls in love, and his bride-to-be, Laura, has a surprise for him when he meets her at the church.

Fun line: Laura Lardner had enough confidence in her image to make the cosmetics sales ladies at Bloomingdales wet their panties.

Story 4: The Man Who Put the Sin in Cynic

Carl’s a cynic. He has a caustic barb for every occasion. When his name starts cropping up in the newspaper, his life is about to change. For better or worse? Read and find out!

Fun line: Carl was pushing forty, and his hair was receding faster than the Jersey shoreline.

Story 5: Klein Comes Back Abashed

Klein and Chung seem a mis-matched couple. However, there’s something about the saying ‘opposites attract’.

Great visual: The guy splayed out over the steps had a face full of beard and wild black hair escaping from the red, white and blue bandanna tied around his head.

Story 6: Sarah, My Donna, and Child

Sammy and Sarah appear to be going through a rough patch in their marriage. Sammy says things without thinking. His barbs hurt his wife. Things are set to turn around when Sarah finds something to occupy her time—something for herself alone. But when she manoeuvres things to help Sammy, his reaction isn’t quite what she’d envisaged.

Fun line: It was just that she was plain as a doorknob and had the personality of a floor mat.

Story 7: Sharon Finds Her Voice

Sharon’s accent isn’t what you’d call nice. She’s got a harsh brogue on her that might make you wince if you heard it. A frightening twist of fate in the health department changes all that, and Sharon finds herself with an altogether different voice…

Cool visual: and his eyelids popped up and down like a Venetian blind.

Story 8: Astroturfing Benjamin’s Books

Benjamin’s novel isn’t selling as well as it could. A fan reader, Starla, lends him a hand and orchestrates more sales than Benjamin could wish for. Has Starla done him a favour, or was his life better before she came along?

Fun line: It was more than okay to Benjamin, who would’ve had moths in his wallet if it hadn’t been for Meredith’s paycheck.

Story 9: Donna Writes a Love Contract

Donna explains how her son was conceived. Her tale is an eye-opener and made me wary of school teachers!

Great visual: but I still needed to pry loose one bit of truth—one question that stuck in my teeth like a piece of popcorn after the theater lights came up.

Summary: Cruising the Green of Second Avenue is a collection of stories that introduces many different characters that intertwine in each story. A thoroughly enjoyable book, read in one sitting. Too hard to put down. Too hard to accept that it was over when the last page had been read. I felt lost once finished. The characters are so real that you become friends with them while reading. Still, all is not lost. I hear there are other volumes—something I’m eagerly looking forward to!

The Edge of Sanity: Book 4 Freya’s Bower

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Jamie Hill
Publisher: Freya’s Bower

REVIEW:

Jake is all set to visit Joss’ lawyer to find out who would benefit from the will should something happen to Joss. The lawyer is hiding something, I know it! He’s cagey with some of his answers, and Jake is now more determined to get to the bottom of this case.

Joss has another of her strange episodes, changing from sweet to snappy in an instant. Is the tea she’s been drinking causing these mood switches? Jake has yet to find out if the tea sample he sent to the lab will reveal anything untoward.

With the help of his fellow officers, Jake finally uncovers what has been making those horrible sounds. Joss is affected in a strange way, and this leaves Jake reeling with shock and consumed with worry.

What the heck will happen next?

Angelic Voices Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Deb Logan
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Deanne has had the descant solo swiped from her by Susie. Deanne’s thoughts entertain her for a while—she plots all manner of things that could befall Susie. Deanne finds out that Susie has plans to meet a wayward chap in the hall behind the baptistery between services. Should she warn Susie that the young lad she’s about to meet is unsavoury, or should she allow Susie to meet him anyway?

A fun YA that explores the way the teenage mind works. I cringed upon realising I’ve entertained similar thoughts as a youngster myself.

To Love Again Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Anne Whitfield
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

After being a widow for thirteen years, Ellen has met someone new—Harry. They are going to London as a couple, and Ellen isn’t sure that she has the confidence to start again. After all, her late husband was all she’d ever wanted. Could she hope to find love with another? Would her new love meet all her expectations? Ellen’s insecurity is shown well, and the fact that Harry knows Ellen better than she realised is a lovely touch.

I really enjoyed To Love Again. It gives hope to those who feel the despair of ever finding love again.

The Twilight Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Stanalei Fletcher
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Cindy is running late. She stops by a coffee shop to grab some caffeine—except it ends up soaking and staining her light coloured clothing. A yummy man expresses his sorrow at her plight and offers to have her clothes cleaned. Cindy’s too busy and she rushes out of the shop.

Her busy day over, Cindy returns to her lonely home. Once in bed, she falls asleep and enters REM world…

Awake once more, Cindy is greeted by more than her usual empty side of the bed. An amusing tale, made believable by Stanalei Fletcher. I have a feeling more single, lonely women would love to know how to get to REM world!

The Lady’s Game Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Cherly Ann Smith
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Ashlinn is betrothed to Adrian, a knight. She tends to him, helping him bathe. Adrian has no idea that Ashlinn is the one he is to wed and makes it quite clear what he thinks of the one he assumes to be her. Ashlinn gains much enjoyment from the deception and plays another prank when they marry. Poor Adrian thinks he has married someone else entirely, until Ashlinn admits who she really is.

A sweet tale.

Promises Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Sarita Leone
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Wartime. Jolene works hard and tries her best to attend to all the wounded men. Her greatest wish is that the war will cease. A young woman, Kay, joins Jolene in helping the wounded and notices a spark between Kay and one of the men, Brian. Jolene has her own love interest, her fiancé, Nate, who is also Kay’s brother. Gill is also wounded and under Jolene’s care.

Nate and Brian heal well, and Jolene worries that Nate will be sent back to the fight. Another worry is that Sally Mae, Gill’s beloved, hasn’t responded to any letters she has sent her about Gill.

Will the war ever end? Will Gill recuperate fully and become reunited with Sally? Promises is a trip into the past, one that shows the harsh realities of wartime.

The Unwilling Bride Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Cherly Ann Smith
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Meg has been hiding from a man, Westlake, for a long time. His lecherous intent toward her makes Meg’s skin crawl, and she flees his home with an old crone, Abby.

Westlake has employed Gavin to find Meg. Should he do so, he will be rewarded. Meg tells him of Westland’s real intent, and Gavin takes Meg and Abby to his home, just south of the Scottish border.

Upon their arrival, Gavin’s mother recognises Meg, and a shocking revelation leaves Gavin reeling. Can he keep Meg and Abby safe? Or, will the beastly Westland find out where they are?

A charming tale with a nice twist. Enjoyed!

Petticoat Pledges Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Sarita Leone
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Bettie longs for word from Henry. He is away at battle, and before he left, he asked her to love him while he was gone. She feels she would know if something happened to Henry while he is away, but still, a letter would be nice. Along with yearning for contact, she ponders the fact that she is a school teacher and whether she will have children of her own one day.

Bettie’s childhood friend, Tucker, was unable to join the fight due to having only one leg. Bettie is working in the garden when Tucker arrives with a bag of radishes. He tells her of his love for her, and Bettie can’t think about that now…

Will Bettie receive that longed for note?

A poignant tale of wartime, one that brings home how lucky we are to live as we do.

For the Love of Grace Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Sarita Leone
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Grace is on a trip of a lifetime in Cairo. She stops by a food stall and partakes in a vegetable kebab. While eating, a man, Justin, strikes up a conversation with her. Back at her hotel dining room, Grace readies herself to eat. Justin appears and asks to share her table. Despite her reservations, she gets along with Justin and, after their meal, they go for a walk.

They have much in common, and once their two weeks in Cairo end, they extend their stays. For the Love of Grace is a wonderful tale about love for those in the older generation. Refreshing to read something that isn’t all about slim women and hunky men—although I don’t mind reading those in the slightest!

Cute!

Crashed Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Lisa Dawn MacDonald
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

On her way to a possible new job, Jessie experiences her first car accident. Thankfully only a ‘little’ bump—the other car’s fender is actually hanging off!—she’s informed she will have to attend traffic court. The other driver, Andrew—a rather handsome male—will also attend court. With the finer details settled with the traffic cop, Jessie goes to work. So not a good day so far, she arrives at work only to find the fender-bender guy there. After accusing him of stalking her and then discovering he works at the same place, Jessie finds she is assigned to work for Andrew.

A tale with rich undertones of humour, Crashed is a delightfully amusing romantic tale.

Calico Country Christmas Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Sharon K. Garner
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Told from a cat’s point of view—yes, you heard me right!–Calico Country Christmas explores what a pet sees in a human relationship.

Lynn is a busy woman. She runs her own gift and craft shop. Jim works in construction. He arrives to take Lynn to his Christmas party. Lynn isn’t ready, having got engrossed in work related things, and Noel the cat senses things aren’t quite right between the humans. Noel’s quips and observations are funny and cute.

Lynn decides to take Noel to her cottage in the mountains. Noel knows Lynn needs time alone to sort out her feelings—a clever cat, is Noel.

Funny line: I hoped they settled this soon. A poor cat could scarcely catch a wink of sleep with all the talking going on.

A funny, really charming tale.

Extreme Meet Torquere Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: AJ Hardcourt
Publisher: Torquere Press

REVIEW:

Stuck at the airport with no chance of getting home due to a white-out, Chris chats to a man, Kevin, beside him. Chris recognised Kevin’s name as the same guy who appeared in the latest newspaper. Kevin had won a gold medal in extreme skiing.

Chris is attracted to Kevin, and it shows. Literally. An announcement booms out on the tannoy, and Kevin offers Chris a chance to crash out at a hotel room with him.

Favourite line:

“I’m gay.”

Kevin smiled. “I’m glad.”

Hot erotic scenes will have your pulse racing if you enjoy M/M fiction. An Extreme Meet indeed. I enjoyed the interaction between Kevin and Chris, the easy way they got along, despite only just meeting one another. I also liked the fact of the cold weather outside and the extreme heat inside.

Avenue of Dreams Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Anne Whitfield
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Molly is visiting a small town in the country for a couple of weeks. While out on a solitary walk, a man wearing a bird glove catches her attention. He asks her for help—his dog wants to be friends with the bird, but the bird doesn’t share the same idea—and Molly complies.

As a thank you for her aid, Sebastian Lord offers Molly a cup of coffee. Though she would love to accept, she refuses. What’s the point? She’s only here for a few days. Besides, none of her past relationships have worked. She wants the whole romantic set-up: husband, house, kids, and a dog. All the men in her life have wanted is far removed from her dream. Even her estranged husband, the man she refers to as the Husband from Hell, ended up a bad egg.

Molly can’t stop thinking about Sebastian. She recalls everything she memorised about him… As if by divine intervention, Sebastian’s dog, Blackie, appears outside the place Molly is staying. She goes out and calls the dog and knows she will have to return him. She’s loathe to do so. Not that she doesn’t like Sebastian, she does, but the feelings he inspires within her are more than she can handle at the moment. How can she recover from a broken marriage with the distraction of another man in her midst?

Avenue of Dreams is an easily read tale. With an enjoyable voice and a plot that nudged me to want Molly and Sebastian to be together, I’d recommend this romantic story if you need assurance that true love does exist.

Delicious Darkness Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: KyAnn Waters
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Audra Quinn has never wanted to succumb to the wants of them before. When darkness falls, magical men make their presence known. The power one of them sends out is hard to resist. She can feel him, sense his blood as it courses through his veins, and knows he wants her. Standing in her bookshop, she lights candles and burns sage, cedar, and sweetgrass to encourage goodness and light. But still he comes.

His presence in her shop sends thrills through Audra’s body. Her mind overrides the feelings inside, as she instinctively knows this is what he wanted all along—her assent to his ministrations, her assent to him taking her…

He is Dorian. He hasn’t mated for days, and his search for Audra took a mere thirty-two hours. Her strong energy ensured their meeting. Using his powers, Dorian puts images of them together in Audra’s mind. He smells Audra’s want and, telling her he will see her home, he knows he has her where he wants her.

Dorian may think that he has orchestrated everything, but Audra is aware that even though she has lost control in some respects, she does indeed want Dorian as much as he wants her.
Bounty hunters seek Dorian. With Audra as his mate and her white light of protection, he is able to stay in Audra’s world. But will the bounty hunters infiltrate Audra’s protection and capture Dorian?

A white hot read with characters that meld together nicely, Delicious Darkness is a tale of lust, longing, and magical powers.

Give it to Me Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Desiree Holt
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Callie is a woman who knows what she wants. Especially in the bedroom. Unfortunately, all the men she dates don’t share her enthusiasm for something new. All they want to do is get it on with the lights off. Callie wants more. Her friend, Diana, owner of the shop Diana’s Delights, encourages Callie to pop next door to Sam Winthrop’s house and invite him over. Callie is unsure—after all, what if he turns her down? Tired of playing with herself and her sex toys, Callie decides to go for it!

Sam Winthrop has his own desires. Tired of dating women who worry about getting their hair messed up during sex, he longs for someone with a penchant for enthusiastic sex. Like his next door neighbour, Callie. He’s had erotic dreams about her for six months. Imagine his surprise when Callie knocks on his door and explains that it’s her birthday and she wants to celebrate…

A hot read. Don’t miss it!

A Girl, a Guy, and a Ghost Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Sherrey Kellie
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Traci fancies Brad. Her friend, Christine, telephones and asks if Brad will get an invite to Traci’s Halloween party. Traci would like him to come, but is afraid her ‘cool’ mom will embarrass her. While on the phone to Christine, Traci receives a rather spooky email. From her dead best friend, Corky, her first ever boyfriend, who drowned. With encouragement down the phone line from Christine, Traci replies to that email…

More messages arrive, and they mention things that only Traci would know. Uber creepy!

Brad asks Traci if she’d like to get together with him. She agrees, and they find out they have something in common. Both live in single parent households.

Momentarily forgetting to be afraid of her computer, Traci switches it on to find 52 emails from The Undertaker, the online name Corky used when alive. The emails continually ask Traci she same thing: Can you come over today? Freaked out, she closes down the computer, but it crackles back to life, and a message reads: Don’t turn me off! Can you come over today?

Now think about this scenario for a minute and imagine reading this book in the dark. I am so glad it is daytime!

Deciding to do what Corky, or whoever is sending the emails asks, Traci goes over to Corky’s house. With the pretence of borrowing some of Corky’s games, Traci gains access to his bedroom. And then the freakiness really begins. Corky speaks to Traci! She rushes from the room and bangs her head. Upon arriving home, she finds her mother has a bump on her head too, from a car accident involving—Brad’s dad!

Fun line: …some ditzy red-head plowed into him. Hilarious!

While with Brad, Traci receives a telephone call from Corky. Traci is scared witless, as not only is it crazy to receive phone calls, emails, and hear your dead best friend’s voice, Brad would know she had received a call from a guy.

Traci and Brad grow closer, and as the novel progresses, as a reader I found that Corky’s ‘reappearance’ was for a reason. A Girl, a Guy, and a Ghost is a charming Young Adult tale that reminded me of my youth and how it feels to want to make the right impression with the guy you fancy. And it also made me smile that those feelings don’t change as we age, even though as a teenager we imagine they do. New love brings fresh nerve skitters every time.

With a great YA voice, Sherrey Kellie pens an exciting read for today’s youth without condescension. She’s either young herself, knows how today’s teenagers act, or recalls her own teenage feelings and emotions extremely well. If you have a teenage girl into romance, then this book is for them, and if you fancy revisiting your youth, I urge you to check out this title! LOVED IT!

Love me, Love my Rafferty Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Carrie Destler
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Connor McIntosh’s hat is whipped from his head by the wind. His new dog, Rafferty, runs off to retrieve it. Unfortunately, Rafferty enters a woman’s house and knocks her flying. The contents of the pot she’d been carrying covers her, and Connor explains that his dog is somewhat disobedient at present. Luckily, the woman, Lily, is a pleasant sort, and holds out her hand after Connor introduces himself.

Fun line: Even through the tomatoes, he could feel the softness of her skin.

Connor finds himself thinking of the fact that he’d gone to the pound to get a cat and came home with a naughty dog. Lily fills his thoughts. Connor apologises to Lily the next day, and to his surprise she agrees to go out with him for dinner. Their evening goes well, and Lily agrees to see Connor again.

Connor and Lily see quite a lot of one another. While Rafferty misbehaves for Connor, he is a good doggy for Lily. Connor feels a touch jealous about Rafferty’s traitorous behaviour, which I can understand!

A naughty dog that brings two people together can’t be classed as bad, though. Love me, love my Rafferty is funny, light-hearted, and very enjoyable.

Smiling Eyes Freya’s Bower

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Adelle Laudan
Publisher: Freya’s Bower

REVIEW:

Lizzy lives with her mother, step-brother, and her hideously horrible step-father, Ben. Honestly, Ben is a character you will love to hate. He is selfish, nasty, and downright evil.

When Lizzie’s mother and step-brother are taken from her unexpectedly, she finds the thought of living with the odious Ben unimaginable. But Lizzy has no other place to go. Her aunt doesn’t appear to want her, and she has no friends who can help, so what should she do?

Thankfully, Lizzie gains an unexpected inheritance and is able to purchase a cottage. With the help of the lovely Adam, the local handyman, the cottage turns from disrepair to beautiful home in no time. However, Ben isn’t happy about it. Not content with owning the house he lived in with Lizzy’s mother, Ben does his utmost to gain Lizzy’s money.

Meantime, Lizzy and Adam form a bond while working on the cottage. Adam also shows Lizzy the thrill of motorbike rides and that bikers aren’t the stereotypical badasses they’re often made out to be. Lizzy has kept her money a secret from Adam because she didn’t want Ben finding out…. What happens when Adam becomes privy to that information?

Smiling Eyes took me into the life of a bullied and insecure young woman and transformed her before my eyes. Her confidence grows along with her feelings for Adam. With an undertone of menace and a plot that urged me to read the book in one sitting, I’d definitely recommend Smiling Eyes.

Oh, and watch out for the old man at the nursing home. What a weird fella!

The End of Travel Ravenna Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Robert Castle
Publisher: Ravenna Press

REVIEW:

Bob, a young American, decides he’d like to travel Europe. Armed with a few items of clothing and his beloved books, he begins his tour in Bolton, England. Embraced by his Bangladesh friends, they show him high levels of hospitality. To the point that Bob may well be suffocated by their niceness. There is a really funny line in this section and I forgot to write it down. Now I can’t find it. Hmph.

He visits Glasgow and stays in a room where he can see his breath in the air. The hotel proprietor allows Bob to have a heater, but plugs it in outside the door, thus being able to unplug it when he thinks Bob is asleep. I found this scene amusing.

In various places he:

Sees a ‘woman of the night’ and finds himself attracted to her ‘parts’, which is, incidentally, a really funny scene. Chit chit—you’d have to read it to find out why that is funny.

Meets a woman intent on showing her husband and son, as in, “I’ll show them!” Bob finds himself attracted to her too.

Shares his personal space with a fellow American who likes nothing more than to smoke weed.

Visits nuns and tells them he isn’t a Catholic, nor does he believe in God, and then berates himself afterwards for not having enough tact.

Gets shafted for the price of his laundry.

Tells people he is studying to be a priest so he can read his novel in peace.

Shares a room with a man who thinks nothing of undressing and washing his genitals in front of Bob.

Robert Castle takes us on his travels with him. It’s almost like a sitcom or soap opera. One thing after another occurs. What I did like about The End of Travel is that though Bob is seeing the world, he constantly wonders what the hell he is doing at each new destination. Also, this is the kind of read where you forget you’re reading. With The End of Travel I found myself seeing only pictures, as if it all played out on TV. An outstanding comedic book that was a pleasure to read.

My favourite Lines (though I think they are a case of needing to read the book to find them funny):

Who the hell learns Dutch?Yes, I had seen the dual signs for streets and entrances to the lavatories.

Was he trying to out Puritan the Puritans?

You should eschew Dave’s company as quickly as possible, warns The Man of Integrity.

Bravo, Mr. Castle!

Lab Partners Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Larry Hammersley
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Late for his chemistry class, Leroy finds himself paired up with Jody, the smartest girl in class, for an experiment. Jodie is prickly, and despite her demeanour, Leroy resolves to get along with her. This proves difficult. Though they are supposed to share the tasks in the experiment, Jody insists on working alone. Her attitude is such that I found myself getting worked up over her rudeness! Poor Leroy.

After chemistry lesson, Leroy attempts to make friends with Jody, determined to see if he can break down her icy barrier. She brushes him off. Later, he sees her again when he goes to study. She’s rude and abrupt once more. I found myself hoping there was a reason for her attitude and that maybe I would change my mind about hating such a snark-infested character.

Fun line: Don’t get your Bunsen burner out of whack, Doyle…

Thankfully, the character development arc I’d been waiting for arrived. I went from detesting Jody to feeling immense sorrow for her. Good job, Mr. Hammersley!

An annoying (for good reasons!) and touching read, one I’m glad to have read.

Christmas Bells Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Emma Sanders
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Maggie isn’t spending Christmas with her family this year. She is on a journey to meet her husband-to-be, John. Upon arrival at the town where John lives, Billy, Maggie’s escort, leaves their horse and wagon outside some stables and walks off. Maggie waits for some time for his return. She thinks about Christmastimes of the past and her future as a mail-order bride. Had Billy abandoned her? Had John forgotten to meet her? What would she do here all alone?

Slipping on the ice, Maggie’s fall is prevented by John. She’s pleased to note John isn’t ugly or old and goes with him to his home. John’s way of living is different from her own. Despite this time in history, Maggie was used to running water. John didn’t have such a luxury—if they wanted water it came from a well. With things to do, John left Maggie to her own devices. She chose to cook.

After dinner, Maggie and John get to know one another better. They discuss John’s deceased wife and dress the Christmas tree. They get along so easily, it’s hard to think they have only just met. I really enjoyed this tale. The historic element made a nice change from today’s fast-paced world, and Maggie’s and John’s fears melted along with the Christmas snow. Lovely.

The Hunted Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Donna Michaels
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Jaden and Raphael are naked in the Mexican jungle, having decided to shirk civilisation for a weekend. Their union is halted before it really begins. Someone shoots at them from the foliage, and Raphael takes a hit.

Not just human, these two shape-shift into spotted cats and run through the undergrowth. Raphael tires from his injuries, so Jaden has to hunt down their attackers alone. Leaving Raphael, she stalks the four men, bringing them down one by one.

A charming quickie that makes shape-shifting seem a real and believable occurrence. I enjoyed this tale, especially the way the beginning was also the end.

Hope, Love, and Treats Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Emma Sanders
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

A fear of Halloween has kept Mandy indoors on the night of October 31st for years. Being a single mother to Wiley puts her fear to the test when he asks if they can go out trick or treating. She tells him no, that they’ll stay inside and watch a movie and eat popcorn. And ignore the door. Dropping Wiley off at school, Mandy feels badly for her son. She knows all his friends will be out that night collecting candy and that Wiley may feel he is missing out.

These thoughts prompt Mandy to face her fears. She allows Wiley his wish, and off they go… Mandy’s fear stems from something in her past, and while out in the dark, thoughts of mass murderers and the like assail her. Thankfully, they bump into Dallon, a man Mandy works with, and his daughter, Elizabeth. They continue the trick or treating as a foursome.

Mandy talks about her fear and where it stemmed from. A sad memory.

Hope, Love, and Treats certainly got me in the mood for Halloween. The creepy elements were done just right, the plot wasn’t a trick, and the ending was definitely a treat.

You’re groaning at me? Aww, come on! Okay, I’ll admit it, I’m cheesy—cheddar, edam, you name it—but I did enjoy this book! Blame Emma Sanders for affecting me this way and bringing out my cheese-fest-ness.

Between Shadows and Lightning Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Vivienne Lorret
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Viviana has accomplished a lot. Not only is she celebrating her 25th birthday, but also her success in selling her burn formula to a major cosmetics company. She has everything—except the one thing she needs the most. Someone to love. Believing that destiny holds the key to finding her soul mate, Viviana let the fates control the romance side of her life and thought the right man for her would turn up if it was meant to be.

Her friend, Cami, is celebrating Viviana’s birthday with her. Just after midnight, a knock sounds at the door. A little scared as to who it might be at that hour, Viviana finds a box outside her door… Viviana recalls a family curse while inspecting the box—one involving vampires. And then there are her dreams…

Vivinana goes for a run to clear her mind. But someone else is also out in the darkness…

Great line: Viviana was just falling back into her skin when she turned to see the figure of a man.

Memories from hundreds of years ago resurface upon seeing the man, and Viviana is disturbed and unsettled by them. Returning home, she examines her feelings.

At times quite creepy, Between Shadows and Lightning is interesting and held my attention throughout. If you’re alone while reading and it’s dark, you may find yourself looking over your shoulder. I read this in daylight and still did that!

Where There’s Smoke Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Patti Shenberger
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Every woman’s nightmare…

Cassie has made yet another meal for her partner, David, and he hasn’t shown up. Angry that once again he has let her down, she rings his private number. Upset after the phone call, Cassie forgets the dinner is in the oven. Fireman Martin arrives to put out the fire.

Unable to get Cassie’s situation out of his mind, Martin visits the next day. And so does David…

David is an insufferable pig—highly evident in this mini e-book. He has such audacity! Cassie is able to see him for what he really is.

Where There’s Smoke may be a mini-read, but it says so much more than the words on the pages. I could imagine Cassie’s anger at the start, her desolation after the phone call, and her smug satisfaction at the end. Go Cassie!

Destiny’s Choices Amira Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Regina Paul
Publisher: Amira Press

REVIEW:

Tiana owns an art gallery. Some thefts have taken place, and a man she’d rather not see again, James, has arrived to investigate. Tiana is less than pleased, and her abrupt way of greeting him made me giggle. She says it how it is. How I long to be like her!

Tiana and James knew each other six years ago, but he chose to attend an out of state college. Unable to go with him, Tiana was also unable to tell James why. They haven’t seen one another in all that time. He loved her then and loves her now. Her attitude towards him when he meets her again leaves him believing there is no chance of reconciliation.

Tiana has been holding a tribal object for the past six years. Someone found out she had it and trashed her cabin. Only a select few know who she is and why she would have the object. Somehow, her identity has leaked out. How will she tell James who she really is: a carrier of sacred objects? Will he understand why she couldn’t go with him out of state, or will he hold it against her?

Find out in Destiny’s Choices, a tale of two people brought back together by fate. Sometimes a man and a woman are just meant to be together! I must also say that the blurb doesn’t do this tale justice. It doesn’t even begin to touch on the excitement factor—and I’m not being derogatory by saying that, but urging readers to give it a read.

An exciting tale which propelled me to the edge of my seat at times, Destiny’s Choices is a keeper for this reader. Nice work, Ms. Paul! Also, Ms. Paul? I loved Tiana’s surname. Slickpoo. I mean, that is just so funny and so darn refreshing! Beats Jones or Brown any day!

No Matter What Amira Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Jordana Ryan
Publisher: Amira Press

REVIEW:

Cassandra spends far too much time in the arms of strange men. Waking up after yet another night with an unknown man, she wonders what the hell she’s playing at. She doesn’t even know his name. She gets out of bed and gazes at her young daughter, Becca, still fast asleep, and realises she has neglected her in some ways. Too many evenings with the babysitter, not enough time with Cassandra.

Cassandra had Becca while still quite young and ran away from her empty life to start again. However, life hadn’t turned out as she had hoped, and Cassandra knows that to patch up the past she must return to it.

With low self-esteem and a wonder at how anyone could love her, Cassandra thought sleeping with various men would fill the void in her life. How wrong could she be. She returns to her old life and comes to terms with the fact that people do love and care for her. If only she could believe that wholeheartedly…

Brenden Carter is Becca’s father. Though angry that Cassandra upped and left for four years, taking their daughter with him, when he sees her again he finds his feelings towards Cass aren’t as angry as he thought…

A charming tale that at times forces the reader to examine things in their own life. I sympathised with Cass’ self-esteem problems and that she deemed herself ‘not worthy’. To learn to love yourself is one of the hardest things to do sometimes, and I wanted Cass to do just that. I don’t usually go for the happy endings, but this time I cheered it on!

Under a Confederate Moon Amber Quill Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: J.M. Snyder
Publisher: Amber Quill Press

REVIEW:

We all love werewolves and shape-shifters, right? Well, open your eyes to J.M. Snyder’s Under a Confederate Moon. Move over your usual shifter, and enter humans changing into bobcats. What an original and refreshing concept. Not only did I get a fresh shifter to read about, but a gripping plot.

A private in the Confederate Army, Caleb spends his time mainly on picket duty. His job is to watch out for the enemy. One particular night, pains wrack him, and he knows ‘the change’ is imminent. He only has a short time before his duty is over, but the change won’t wait. Another officer asks Caleb if he is ok. Sickness has pervaded the camp, so Caleb blames that and races into the woods…

As a bobcat, Caleb sees the other side of life. Men are his enemy, and he has to be careful to avoid being shot. Ironic, when he is at war and shooting his human enemy is something he has to do.

An amazing event occurs. Caleb meets an older, wounded bobcat, Brance, who is able to speak to Caleb in his mind. Caleb has to come to terms with the fact that there are other bobcats out there like him—a comfort to know he is not alone.

Brance is stand-offish and rude. Though churlish to begin with, Brance soon thaws towards Caleb. However, a twist in the tail—of course, I meant tale—puts more than a dampener on Caleb and Brance’s relationship. They discover that they fight for opposing sides in the war.

At times heart wrenching (or am I just a Nutty Nana?), Under a Confederate Moon is a fantastic read, in my opinion. I think its fresh approach to a new kind of shape-shifter, the emotions brought onto the page so well, and the historical aspect brings together such a charming—ooooh!—just wonderful story.

In Reference to… Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Savanah Jordan
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Shawna spends an evening in the college library intending to research. The night is stormy, bringing thoughts of torrid love affairs to mind. She’s distracted from her studies by a hunky man who enters. Throwing caution to the wind, she decides she really wants him and makes that very clear.

Funny line: Hostess? I don’t know about hostess, but I certainly plan on treating him to my Southern hospitality.

Adam also wants Shawna, and while she’s meant to be eyeball deep in research books, they enjoy a rampant session instead. The librarian is less than pleased and escorts them out of the building.

Funny line: Fraulein Fun-Wrecker stood tapping her foot as we gathered our things.

Shawna’s bus arrives, and with no time to get Adam’s phone number, she can only hope he visits the library again. However, Shawna sees Adam quicker than she expected. And he isn’t quite who she expected either.

A fun voice in this book! Thoroughly enjoyable.

Take me Again, Sam Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Megan Kerans
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Dove visits Morocco so she can learn more about the art of belly dancing. Dancing in one of the top nightspots, she notices the handsome Samir (Sam). After her dance routine, she leaves the stage to eat. Sam joins her and tells her he can teach her to dance better than she does, to feel the music in her soul.

Dove takes up Sam’s offer, and after her lesson joins Sam in an altogether different dance. Dove finds out she stirred more than passion in Sam, which culminates in a rather touching ending.

Mischief in the Dark Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Liza James
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

After ending her relationship with her no-good boyfriend, Shari decides to conquer some of her fears. She visits a haunted house on Halloween night. One of the other visitors, dressed as Dracula, catches her attention. She falls over in the house in her attempt to get out of the way of a zombie—Dracula comes to her assistance.

Shari and Dracula find themselves locked inside—alone—which isn’t so bad considering they both fancy the pants off one another. Though scared, the pair embark on a little togetherness. Once rescued from the haunted house, Shari doesn’t get Dracula’s number, and berates herself—she has no way to find him.

However, she has a fancy dress party to attend next, and who knows what might happen?

Predominantly sex-based, Mischief in the Dark is a hot read if that is what you’re after. I would have preferred more of a story myself, but nevertheless, it was an enjoyable read.

Double Deutsch Wild Rose Press

Due to reader comments, Double Deutsch was read again by a different reviewer. Sangria doesn’t have a problem with reading erotica. It would be ridiculous to be a reviewer for Cocktail’s if she did!

 REVIEW ONE

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Shayla Kirsten
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Catherine’s ex-husband didn’t do much to lift her self-esteem. Not only did he make her feel overweight, but he ran off with a slimmer woman. Catherine embraces a new change in her life—despite feeling insecure about her body—and leaves America and takes a job in a brothel in Germany. Though she’d never envisaged herself doing such a thing, the thought of no-strings-attached-sex appeals to her. Getting paid is a bonus.

For her first night, two men request sharing Catherine. Sex name Cat, she throws herself into her job. One man rushes, but the other, Ritter, takes his time. He wants to see Cat again.

At her day job, Cat expects a client any moment. I wonder who it could be?

A hot read (from what I read of the erotic scenes) that left me with questions. A man visits a sex worker and wants to see her again afterwards. If I were the sex worker—even if it was only the first time I’d done it—I don’t think I would want a relationship with someone who had obviously visited sex workers before. I’d forever worry that they would stray and visit sex workers again.

If I’m honest—and no disrespect to Shayla Kersten in any way as my review is based on my morals—the questions Double Deutsch brought about left me unsettled, hence my score and not reading the erotic scenes in their entirety.

REVIEW TWO

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Shayla Kirsten
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Catherine suffers from low self-esteem due to her ex-husband. He berated her and as a final FY he left her for another woman. This brought about emotions of sorrow in me, for no woman deserves to be treated like this, whatever her size.

Determined to live a new life, Catherine moves to Germany. By day, she works in an office with clients to appease. By night she has an entirely different kind of client… Her first night on the job, she worries that she can’t perform. This new job must have been a test of her ability to not only get to know herself, but shirk the self doubt and learn to embrace who she is.

Catherine is a little shocked to find that not only one, but two men would like the pleasure of her company. Imagine that! Psyching yourself up to face one customer would entice your nerves into overdrive, but two? But she does it and finds that she can do this, she is desirable.

Ritter, one of the men, is the more charming of the pair. Catherine is amazed to hear him say he would like to see her again. Fate plays a hand and sends him her way.

Double Deutsch is a hot read. It does bring questions to mind, like Sangria said in her review, and I can understand why those questions arose. I think it is the fact that Catherine had such low self-esteem that the idea of her becoming a sex worker doesn’t sit right. I have been one such person, who has been made to feel overweight and unloved. Being told this for a number of years makes you believe it is the truth. There is no way I would have taken on a job as a sex worker, as I wouldn’t have believed I was desirable enough, nor is it something I would want to do, period. But then again I am not Catherine, and Catherine’s life choices are hers not mine.

So, I would like to point out that this is my opinion. No writer can appease everyone. Some people love so and so, yet another person may not be able to stand reading their material. Like Sangria, I had issues regarding Catherine’s choice of job when her emotions and self-worth are in question. That’s all I have an issue with. It’s better that I have a plot issue rather than writing a review that said the writing stunk. Plot issues can be resolved, learned from. Bad writing is bad writing, and as Double Deutsch is written well, if I were the author, I’d be pleased that my writing ability hadn’t come into question. That’s a far more embarrassing pill to swallow than a plot quibble.

My score is based on Cocktail’s scoring system, especially: You were able to read this book without it losing your interest.

That’s quite a compliment, in my opinion.

Junior Matchmaker Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Susan Lyons
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Young Jordie listens to his friend Neil boasting about getting a new computer. Neil’s dad set it up when it arrived, and Neil’s excitement is obvious. Jordie, however, finds himself realising that he has neither a computer nor a dad. His dad died when Jordie was small.

Jordie decides to at least get his mother to buy a computer. After being good and employing the tactics his teacher, Mr. Jenkins taught him—which are, incidentally to do with school and homework and not getting your own way!—Jordie talks his mother round. So with the computer quest out of the way, the young man wonders if he can also bag himself a father.

A touching little tale for all characters concerned. A smile-inducing story with a happy ending.

NEW! Press/New Releases

We may not pick up every book that comes in, but we can let everyone else know about it!

Want to shout about your new release? Want to list all of your books and where they are available? Promote with us! Send it to us in the body of an email, and we’ll place it on this site under the Press/New Release category.

Send information/cover art to: cocktailreviews@yahoo.com

Press/New Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2007
Contact: Dashiell Thompson
To The 9.s, LLC
P.O. Box 61494
Durham, NC 27715
Phone: (919) 672-1161
takeyoutothenines@gmail.com

Durham, NC . Moments, by acclaimed debut author Ebony Dawn, is a collection of stories exploring the human predicament with humor, drama, and much verve. Emotional fragments of love, joy, sorrow, jealousy, and romance are peppered into each tale, creating a celebration of mind and imagination and giving an unparalleled look into the hearts of our fellow man. An exciting new addition to the literary world, Ebony Dawn has achieved widespread renown for her gifted storytelling and inspirational messages, and her writings capture the universal themes at the core of everyday living.

Ebony Dawn will conduct a special reading of Moments on Saturday, October 20th, 12-2 PM, at Rutgers University Bookstore, One Penn Plaza, Ferren Mall, New Brunswick, NJ 08901. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing. For more info, please contact rutgers850@bkstr.com or (732) 246-8448.

Moments (112 pp, USD $11.95) is available at Amazon.com & Barnesandnoble.com, and direct
from the publisher at www.ebonydawn.com. For more information, contact ebonydawn_1@yahoo.com.
Originally published in November 2006, Moments continues to receive rave reviews from readers
and critics alike. Ebony Dawn’s passionate, straight-ahead writing style is both compelling and rewarding.

Highly recommended for readers from all walks of life.

For booking, readings, signings, and other publicity, contact Dashiell Thompson at takeyoutothenines@
gmail.com or (919) 672-1161.

Blood Martyr: Book 1 Freya’s Bower

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Fionn Jameson
Publisher: Freya’s Bower

REVIEW:

Tanith Quinn doesn’t get attached to human beings. She is a vampire who likes to have sexual relations with human men, but not the trappings that go with them. Being ‘owned’ by a man doesn’t appeal to her in the slightest. She is the one who must have control.

During her past she has used males as she sees fit, discarding them after their brief encounter, uncaring that the men are broken hearted. Or worse…

She meets another—but has she bitten off more than she can chew (pardon the pun)? How will she react to being controlled instead of being the one to control others? And does this new man have the strength to keep Tanith in check?

Looking forward to the next instalment!

Wicked in Wales Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Eve Savage
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

American holidaymaker Leia (yes, named after *that* Leia) finds herself stuck due to a rail strike on the Welsh island of Anglesey, in a village that boasts the longest place name in the UK. Her frustration is soon channelled into something much more exciting when she starts flirting with fellow train passenger Maddock.

Maddock has just returned from a tour of duty in Iraq to his home village, where his brother runs a B&B. He invites Leia to wait out the strike with him, and pretty soon railway timetables are the last thing on their minds…

Part of the ‘Destination Pleasure’ series, this short story has a lot to commend it. It’s more character-driven than Sultry Saudi Nights, which makes the tension of Leia and Maddock’s attraction work well, and consequently the sex scene is much more explosive. It also provides set-up for Ariel’s story without distracting the reader away from Leia’s story.

Plus, there’s a nice twist at the end. Despite its brevity, I thoroughly enjoyed Wicked in Wales… and I wish I’d seen a guy as hot as Maddock the last time I was in Llanfair PG!

Wired For Love Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Amber Polo
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

Penelope is waiting for her regular Amazon delivery when a disgruntled man comes barging into her apartment. He claims he’s there to destroy her – since because of her, he’s lost his job and his girlfriend. When he takes off his disguise, Penelope realises that he’s cute. Can she turn a misunderstanding to her advantage?

Here’s my favourite bit:

“Alone? Do I live alone? I am so boring, my cat left me.” Maybe she shouldn’t have told him Casanova was gone. But hell, it was true. Other than the regular FedEx, DHL, and UPS drivers, the takeout delivery guys from her favorite restaurants were her only friends—and they thought she was weird. Even her cleaning woman had quit, complaining that Penny followed her around and yelled over the noise of the vacuum cleaner. Rosa had called her needy.

This is a quirky little tale, well written and very funny, although it feels rather like a private joke at times. I have no problem with short stories but this one was really short, and I wonder how I’d feel if I’d paid $1.50 for it.

Anyway, it’s a great advertisement as a taster for Ms Polo’s style and abilities. I’d definitely look for longer stories from her in the future.

Sultry Saudi Nights Wild Rose Press

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Allie Standifer
Publisher: Wild Rose Press

REVIEW:

TV anchorwoman Ariel Lake is due to start filming for her show in the desert of Saudi Arabia when she finds herself in a spot of bother:

If she hadn’t had to pee so badly she wouldn’t have lost her underwear.

Lost underwear is the least of her problems. An elderly nomad has offered to make her his seventh wife, but before the ceremony can begin, she’s rescued – and forced to marry – her ex-lover, Sheik Damon E’Darvue.

Ariel left him before they could get too involved, believing the scandal-mongers’ gossip about him. Now Damon wants to show her that she was wrong to ditch him…

A fun little story that doesn’t take itself seriously. Having said that, possibly the editor on this one should have looked at it a bit more seriously, as a few things jumped out at me: Islam only allows a man to have four wives (he can have more women as concubines but not as wives); Hasmir’s name changed to Hassim a couple of pages later; and ‘ragging’ should be ‘raging’.

Part of the ‘Destination Pleasure’ series, this is a short, hot read with a lick of good humour and more than a nod to the Mills & Boon-type sheik romances. Try this if you fancy a quick, no-strings attached fling.