Chocolate Obsessed by Annette Lyon

ABOUT THE BOOK:
CHOCOLATE OBSESSED was part of the Amazon #1 Bestselling series in *New Release* for Clean Romance in the AUTUMN SUSPENSE collection from the award-winning TIMELESS ROMANCE ANTHOLOGY series:

2014 RONE Award Winner for Best Romance Anthology of the Year

*Crown Heart for Excellence* Awarded Book —IND’TALE MAGAZINE

"Just in time for fall, six loved authors have produced a collection of romantic suspense novellas which will tingle the spine and thrill the heart." —DESERET NEWS, Melissa Demoux

Whitney, an executive pastry chef, is working her resort’s booth at the New York Chocolate Show. The only problem is that she shares the shift with her arch rival, Stephen. Then an unexpected visitor shows up: Jeremy, a man who lost a dessert competition she judged.

When Jeremy confronts her threateningly, Stephen gets Jeremy dragged off by security. But that doesn’t throw Jeremy off for long; soon Stephen and Whitney are on the run.

MY THOUGHTS:

This was such a quick fun read. It is included in one of the Timeless Romance Anthologies and  they always have great stories. I loved this one! I wasn't expecting all the suspense when I picked it up to read it but then I couldn't put it down. Great way to spend a snowy night! Great novella Annette!

Note: I was given this book in exchange for an honest review by the Author.

Rogue (Tru Exceptions - Christian Romantic Suspense Book 4) by: Amanda Tru

Rogue (Tru Exceptions - Christian Romantic Suspense Book 4) by: Amanda Tru

ABOUT THE BOOK:
When the more honorable action requires a little treason...

Homeland security agent Kelsey Johnson never wanted the assignment, especially when it involves coercing Garrett Matthews, a man she despises. But instead of delivering Agent Matthews his new orders, Kelsey finds herself on the run and caught in the same mess Garrett was ordered to retreat from.

With their lives at stake, Garrett and Kelsey are now considered the enemies, and are being hunted by everyone, including their own department.

With their friends, Rachel and Dawson, their only help, Kelsey and Garrett must evade those intent on killing them and locate the evidence to clear their names before their powerful enemy catches up with them. Unsure of even the existence of such redeeming evidence, they may be forced to seek help fro the very enemy who started it all.

Unfortunately, there is a reason Kelsey has never been a field agent--a well-guarded secret that puts both her and Garrett's lives at risk. Though she knows she can't be trusted, she also can't bring herself to confide in Garrett, wanting to believe that the ghosts of her past won't haunt her.

But in the end, with her life a trigger's breath from being over, and a secret that could change the entire country on the line, will her own secret cost her everything?

MY THOUGHTS:
The Tru exception series is probably my favorite series EVER. The first one in the set "Baggage Claim" is my all time favorite book. I have been waiting for this one to come out for over a year and it was worth the wait. It is action packed and full of suspense. I loved getting to know more about Kelsey's story. She and Garrett have the typical love/hate relationship and when they are forced to work together, as their lives depend on it, it makes an awesome story! This one will have you on the Edge of your seat the whole time so make sure you set aside a whole day to read it. I couldn't put it down. Amanda's books are the best and one of these days she will be discovered and they going to be made into movies!  They. Are. That. Good! As always Amanda awesome, awesome book! Loved it! 

Vocal Crush by: Lisa Swinton

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Can you ever out run a broken heart?

Lexi Court spent seven years traveling the world, living the nomadic Broadway life, in an attempt to outrun the broken heart Nick Rivers gave her. Now, there’s nowhere left to go.

When she accepted a position as a high school drama teacher in Las Vegas, Lexi hoped to get over Nick, find a nice guy, and settle down. But what should be a quiet summer gets turned upside down when Lexi's best friend, Taffy, drafts her to be an emergency replacement coach on a televised vocal competition.

Feeling out of her league among the other three celebrity coaches, Lexi fights for the most promising contestants to be on her team. One note from a single voice shatters her summer. Nick unexpectedly auditions and joins Lexi's team. With her vocal crush on him raging as strong as ever, she has nowhere to run from Nick’s dreamy looks or siren voice.

Lexi has no doubt that Nick can win the competition. The question is does he want to win her heart as well or will he damage it beyond repair?

Think television reality show The Voice meets Jane Austen’s Persuasion.

 

MY THOUGHTS:

I loved this book I couldn't put it down. I loved that Lexi was able to find such a great friend in Grant. It is always good to have someone to vent to. I understand Lexi wanting to run from the pain and not face the reality of what happened and I love that Nick finally manned up and was willing to fight for her. That is what every girl really wants a man to love them and to fight for them. This was a great book. Can't wait for the next one from Lisa so far I've loved them all! 

The Passionate One By:Jeanette Lewis

ABOUT THE BOOK:
As the creator of the Billionaire Bride Pact, Erin Parker is determined to see it through. And now that wealthy, gorgeous Brennan Avery has been cast as her costar in a play destined for Broadway, things couldn’t be better. But Erin’s best friend, Matt Walters, isn’t ready to give up on her. He has a plan to escape the friend zone and prove to Erin that there are more important things than money and fame.

With an introduction by Lucy McConnell and a bonus chapter from The Resilient One by Cami Checketts. 

MY THOUGHTS:

Another great book for this series! I loved that Matt and Erin had such a great friendship. It is important to have the kind of bond with someone and I think most of us do find that in our spouses. I loved reading more background on some of the other girls that will be in this series and I also loved that she realized that sticking to the pact wasn't as important as her happiness! It also got me interested in glass blowing I may have to look into taking the flower class. Sounds like fun! Can't wait for more in this series!

Note: I was given this book by the Author in exchange for an honest review!

Brownies & Betrayal (Sweet Bites Mysteries, Book 1) by: Heather Justesen

 Brownies & Betrayal (Sweet Bites Mysteries, Book 1) by: Heather Justesen

 ABOUT THE BOOK:
Pastry chef Tess Crawford thought moving from Chicago to quiet Silver Springs, Arizona would simplify her life. That was before she found the body of a woman with whom she had traded heated words the previous night, left her fingerprints on the murder weapon, and came under attack for trying to clear her name. When her cheating ex-fiance shows up, intent on convincing her to come back to work for him, Tess—armed with an extra batch of éclairs—decides to take control and solve the mystery herself, with the help of friends and frenemies alike.

But will that be enough to save her when she gets too close and the killer decides it’s safer to get her out of the way?

MY THOUGHTS:
I've been wanting to start this series for a while. It was such a fun read and a great little mystery. Tess just moved back to her small home town to open a bakery when she discovers a dead body. When she becomes a suspect in the murder she figures she better try to shove the case so she doesn't end up in jail. I like the addition of the recipes in the book. I can't wait to try out the eclair one and see how good they are. Can't wait to read the next one in this set!

The Resilient One: A Billionaire Bride Pact Romance by: Cami Checketts

THIS BOOK UP FOR PRE-ORDER HERE: http://www.amazon.com/Resilient-One-Billionaire-Bride-Romance-ebook/dp/B019D53QO4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1452099810&sr=8-2&keywords=cami+checketts+kindle+books

ABOUT THIS BOOK:
Alyssa Armsworth, a world-renowned photographer, has no intentions of honoring the Billionaire Bride Pact she made at girl’s camp to avoid getting whipped cream smeared on her face while she slept. Marriage is the last thing on her to-do list and when her father forces his wealthy friends on her, she runs to Maui.
Her plan to jog on the beach, take some great pictures, and avoid men works—until Beckham Taylor arrives. Spending days on the white sand with the handsome ex-NHL star is ideal, but Alyssa's guilt for past transgressions begins to consume her. She doesn’t think Beckham could ever forgive what she’s done to him and his family. Before she can confess her misdeeds are thrust onto the front cover of the tabloids. Now, Alyssa must face her past or lose her future.

Bonus chapter from The Passionate One, A Billionaire Bride Pact Romance by Jeanette Lewis.

MY THOUGHTS:

What a great start to what will be an awesome series, I can tell! I love love loved this book. I could not put it down (believe me - you should see my house lol). The instant bond that Lyssa and Beck shared is what makes this book so great. Even with them both having insecurities and imperfections they were able to trust each other and build a relationship quickly. We all need someone like that in life. I also like the lesson this book taught, that even though someone we love might do something horrible we should be able to work through it and forgive them. Cami had me hooked from the start and 'bonding' with all the characters. Her books just keep getting better and better! I can't wait to read more from her and the next one in this series! 

Note: I was given this book by the Author in exchange for an honest review!

Oh Come On- Be Faithful by: Cami Checketts

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Former Army security expert Matt Degan is in desperate need of a Christmas miracle. His ex-wife cleaned out his savings account and abandoned their son. Sadly, he has no presents stashed.

When he finds a job as a bodyguard for Mikayla Lambert, a billionaire heiress who has been tormented by a stalker for four years, he’s caught up in family drama that threatens this beautiful woman he’s becoming enamored with and might also endanger his son. Can Matt protect everyone and save Christmas for his son, or will the stalker succeed at kidnapping Mikayla and destroying any chance at love between them?

MY THOUGHTS:
I LOVED THIS NOVELLA! When Cami writes a book she has this way of grabbing you and she makes you feel like the characters are people you would want to be friends with. This story was such a great one. A Dad struggling to give his kid a good Christmas. And who doesn't love a good happily ever ever? This light hearted Christmas novella is just what I needed to lift my spirits! I have been kind of off lately and I had a sick child yesterday. Reading this book is just what I needed to make my day great and get a jump start on my reading goal for the year! If you are looking for a light-hearted feel good read this should be your pick. If you haven't read any of Cami's other books you should check those out too! She's the best! Great Job Cami as always, I loved it! 

The Captive by; Julie Coulter Bellon

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Former Navy SEAL Jake Williams is the newly appointed head of a task force assigned to rescue a kidnapped American diplomat. Their only hope is Mya Amari, the daughter of a notorious Algerian hostage negotiator, but she is full of secrets and complications–something Jake takes as a personal challenge. As they grow closer, the threat to the mission escalates and time runs out for the hostages. Can Jake unravel the web of deception to save them all without getting caught in the crossfire?

Mya Amari has been in hiding nearly her entire life to escape her father’s enemies. But when her sister is kidnapped along with an American diplomat, she’ll do anything to bring her home–including walking into the enemy’s lair. She doesn’t trust anyone, especially the too-handsome-for-his-own-good Commander Williams, but when all her careful plans explode out of control, he’s the only one she can turn to with the truth about her family. Is it too little, too late?

MY THOUGHTS:
This book stays true to Julie Bellon form! It is full of action, suspense, terrorists and even some romance. Julie has a way of taking the good out of a bad situation and making it enjoyable to read about! I can't wait until my 10 year old gets a little older because I think Julie will be come his favorite Author. He loves military and guns and missions and wants to be a SEAL someday. As with all her other books, this is an edge of your seat page turner. If you haven't tried on of Julie's books yet you should. I can't wait to read more from the Griffen Force! Great job Julie! 

Random Acts of Scrooge by: Christy Barritt

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Christmas is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but a real-life Scrooge is threatening to ruin the season’s good will.

Holly Anna Paladin can’t wait to celebrate Christmas with family and friends. She loves everything about the season—celebrating the birth of Jesus, singing carols, and baking Christmas treats, just to name a few. But when a local family needs help, how can she say no?

Holly’s community has come together to help raise funds to save the home of Greg and Babette Sullivan, but a Bah-Humburgler has snatched the canisters of cash. Holly and her boyfriend, police detective Chase Dexter, team up to catch the Christmas crook.

Will they succeed in collecting enough cash to cover the Sullivans’ overdue bills? Or will someone succeed in ruining Christmas for all those involved? 

MY THOUGHTS:

If you are looking for a good afternoon mystery to read on a cold day look no farther than this Christmas Novella! It is such a fun read and a great addition to the Holly Anna series! Christy will keep you in the edge of your seat and guessing until the end! It's full of humor and mystery and Christmas Spirit! Great job Christy!

Note: I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

More than the Tattooed Mormon by: Al Carraway

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Al Fox Carraway has spent the last four years inspiring the world with her story of conversion, redemption, and finding faith. As a blogger, social media personality, and award-winning public speaker, her message has reached millions. This moving biography and up-close account of her life and membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (sometimes called the "LDS" or "Mormon" church) will show you what it means to truly trust in the Lord.

"Don't go, Al. You won't fit in."

Being baptized and following the Lord has made Al's life harder than it ever was before. She endured criticism from friends and family for becoming a Mormon. She faced harsh judgments from Church members for her appearance. She gave up everything and felt more alone than she ever had in her life. All because she chose God.

Now she shares an up-close look at how trusting God has led her to places she never expected. As a blogger, YouTuber, and award-winning public speaker, her message has reached millions. Sharing her love of the Savior, Al goes beyond her own conversion and encourages readers to choose God above anything else. This uplifting book inspires readers to build a true relationship with the Lord that will bring them real, lasting happiness.

Endorsements for More than the Tattooed Mormon

"Al Fox Carraway is a wonderfully fresh combination of energy, humor, and testimony. At first, you might think this book is all about Al. But the more you read, the more you will find personal motivation to keep going, to keep trying, and to stay close to the Lord through all of life's challenges."
--John Bytheway, author of How Do I Know If I Know?

"Al shares her story with frankness and passion. She fills each chapter with memorable insights and true wisdom. But this book isn't really about Al. It is about God and you! It is about the transformation that is possible for all of us through the Atonement of Jesus Christ."
--Brad Wilcox, professor at Brigham Young University, author of The Continuous Atonement and The Continuous Conversion

"Al takes you on one of the most faith-building journeys you'll ever experience. Al is real. Al is authentic. . . . Al's story will bring you closer to Christ."
--Hank Smith, PhD, bestselling LDS author and speaker, BYU religion instructor

MY THOUGHTS:

This. Book. Is. Amazing!!!! I am a huge reader. I have read 80 books this year alone! This is the first time I have filled a book with highlights. There was so much that Al said that I wanted to remember. I have been a member of the LDS church my whole life but that doesn’t mean this book still didn’t apply to me. To read about the strength and faith she has had since being baptized is inspiring. So many of us get to points in our lives where we take advantage of the way we have been raised. I can’t say I am one of those people because my Husband is a convert and is currently inactive so I definably view both sides of the fence. He is actually the one that wanted to read this book. I really hope he does because he will see that there are other people out there that think the way he does. This book helped strengthen and lift me up and made me want to be a better example to my husband and my children and everyone around me. It also reiterates how crucial it is that we aren’t judgmental about the people we see daily and especially at church. You don’t know what their story is or how they got to where they are. They could be so AMAZING like Al and just judged because you are scared of the unknown. When we first moved to Utah my husband couldn’t find a job anywhere. At the time he had shaved his head bald because we weren’t used to the hot summers. He has tattoos but they aren’t very visible being on his upper arms. My brother said to my husband, “I know you don’t want to hear this but if you want a job you are going to have to grow hair again.” As soon as he let it grow out he found a job right away. It shouldn’t matter how we look. My husband still has a testimony but he has just allowed himself to be influenced by the world and by being judged at church, that he chooses not to have the gospel in his life right now, and it is so hard to see him missing that light and that happiness that Al talks about and that I feel daily. I highly recommend this book to everyone Member or Not. She really tells you like it is and helps you to see all sides of everything. It is such a great book I will be reading it again over and over. Thanks so much for putting yourself out there and sharing your story with the world Al. This is truly the mission Heavenly Father had for you!

An Unexpected Proposal by: Annette Lyon

ABOUT THE BOOK:
AN UNEXPECTED PROPOSAL as part of the Timeless Romance Anthology: Winter Collection:
**Amazon #1 Bestselling *New Release* in Clean Romance
**Amazon Top 10 in Regency Romance
**Amazon Top 5 in Victorian Romance

“Top Pick!” “This anthology is what holiday romance is all about. I can't remember the last book I found so delightful and enjoyable.” –NIGHT OWL REVIEWS

“These six romantic shorts are deliciously crafted… Each short takes the reader on a mini Christmas vacation to the past, its mystical beauty and imaginative romance.” –IND’TALE MAGAZINE, Erin Murdock

“I readily recommend this smorgasbord of treats that are suitable for all ages.” –ROMANCE REVIEWS TODAY

“There is just something magical about cuddling up with a good love story on a winter afternoon… they are charming glimpses into romantic moments of days long past.” –DESERET NEWS, Melissa Demoux

While working at a wood camp in the Logan canyon during the winter of 1880, Caroline Simpson is forced to thwart the aggressive advances of Mr. Butch Larson, and in the process discovers that her long-time friend James has genuine affection for her. But as stubborn as Caroline is, she minimizes the emotions James has awakened in her, and it takes almost losing him to admit her true feelings.

An Unexpected Proposal was introduced in WINTER COLLECTION, the first volume of the bestselling and RONE Award-winning Timeless Romance Anthology series, and is now available as a standalone short.

MY THOUGHTS:

This was a cute novella about a childhood friendship that blossomed over the years. Sometimes we don't always realize that what we already have is pretty great! I haven't read the rest of the Timeless Anthology this was included in. I plan to look that up and read those ones too. They always put great sets together and this was a good one! Great job Annette as always! 

Note: I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

Bride by Request: Historical Western Christian Romance (Brides by Mail Book 2) by Amanda Tru & Cami Wesley

ABOUT THE BOOK:
When following God’s Will may keep her from following her heart…

Charlotte Mason believes that it’s God’s will for her to be a mail order bride. But while on her way to meet her groom, her bags and tickets are accidentally switched with wealthy heiress, Adelaide Delaney. With the plans for her life hijacked, Charlotte finds herself forced to play the part of a railroad tycoon’s fiancé.

Unfortunately, the role is a tall order for a simple girl from Georgia. Plagued by hilarious mishaps, Charlotte must unravel the mystery of God’s will and find where she belongs.

In the end, Charlotte must choose whether to follow her heart or her mission to be a mail order bride.

"Bride by Request" is Book 2 in the "Brides by Mail" series.

MY THOUGHTS:
I really liked this book. It wasn't as witty as the first one but I think that was just because the characters weren't meant to be witty. It did fill in all the gaps the first one lacked in and it was great to get Charlotte's story. I think that way the way they intended them to go. That you need to read both to feel the complete story. This is a fun series of books so far! I think number 3 is going to be very interesting I can't wait! All in all great job ladies once again!

Random Acts of Malice - Holly Anna Book 2 - By: Christy Barritt

ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Holly Anna Paladin’s boyfriend, police detective Chase Dexter, says he’s leaving for two weeks and can’t give any details, she wants to trust him. But when she discovers Chase may be involved in some unwise and dangerous pursuits, she’s compelled to intervene.

Holly gets a run for her money as she’s swept into the world of horse racing. The stakes turn deadly when a dead body surfaces and suspicion is cast on Chase. At every turn, more trouble emerges, making Holly question what she holds true about her relationship and her future.

Just when she thinks she’s on the homestretch, a dark horse arises. Holly might lose everything in a nail-biting fight to the finish.

MY THOUGHTS:

I loved this book! It was full of suspense and I love Holly's sweet innocent nature and how it was tested in so many ways. She was still able to stay true to herself even when in difficult situations. This book will have you guessing until the end! My favorite paragraph of the book, “I wish I had some answers for you. I only know that life’s hard. We all experience that in one way or another eventually. Some people learn that lesson earlier in life, and others not until later. It’s not fair. It’s not easy. It doesn’t make a lot of sense. I guess we really have no choice but to deal with it, though. You know?” This is such a great life lesson for us all. I know it has defiantly been mine. Awesome book Christy! I loved it! 

Note: I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!