2020 ARC Reviews
Perfect Wreckage, by Catherine Cowles
Catherine Cowles shares such an endearingly addictive read, immersed with entertaining characters, full of heart, and a hint of danger.
Cloaked with a fierce and sassy exterior, we are introduced to a heroine broken from betrayal, abandonment, and tragedy. When devastating news upends her life, she finds herself fighting to keep things together. However, when she accepts a challenge from the smouldering sweet-talker Crosby, Kenna unexpectedly discovers herself embracing uncertainty, rising above her fears, building trust, and risking her heart. However, when the past emerges and threatens to destroy her future, peril quickly ensues.
Cowles molds relatable and well rounded characters, though dissimilar, they perfectly complement one another. As a reader we could not help , but be compelled to invest in this heroine and hero’s journey as they were driven by such warmth and compassion.
Now...we impatiently await the next installment of this series!
*Many thanks to Catherine Cowles and @mt032. Please note, we won this ARC, however this in no way influenced our rating and review.*
MarvelUsReads
Posted: September 24, 2020
Rating: 4.3 Stars
Publisher's Description:
My past taught me to play it safe.
To stay far away from handsome men who promised it all.
My life was good without them. Stable, secure, predictable.
But one kiss showed me that I’d been playing it safe for far too long.
One night, and all I wanted was more of his wildfire.
One challenge and my carefully constructed walls tumbled down.
Amidst the rubble, I realized there was more to this man than I ever dreamed.
When everything fell apart, he showed me what it meant to stay.
How to truly live.
But when my demons return, that life might end up shorter than either of us expected…
Live: Now Live!
The Cradle Will Fall, by Samantha Baca
The second book in the Haven Brook series, The Cradle Will Fall is an utterly enjoyable and spelling binding read! A story laced with romance, intrigue, danger, and addictive characters, Samantha Baca leaves readers eager to turn each page in haste!
As he witnesses his close friends settling down, Noah, a small town playboy begins to question his lifestyle choices. As his relationship with his new love, Jade grows serious his past comes knocking at the door, and threatens to put all Noah holds dear at risk! As the past begins to cast a shadow over their future, will their love be strong enough to overcome the darkness?
Fans of suspenseful romance, The Cradle Will Fall is a definite must read! Samantha Baca, we are simply addicted to your books!
Thank you to Samantha Baca for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
MarvelUsReads
Posted: September 1, 2020
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Publisher's Description:
Everyone has a past, but some are deadlier than others.
Noah Wilder has always been the town’s playboy. Wild at heart, commitment was never in his vocabulary, but the nightmares that torment him are forcing him to reconsider.
Free spirited and adventurous, Jade Alyson never saw herself moving to a small town or settling down, until she met Noah. But when his former fling shows up, claiming to be pregnant with his child, Jade’s trust issues bubble to the surface. In spite of how much she loves Noah, her instinct is to bolt.
Now Noah’s struggling to soothe Jade’s fear without shirking his responsibilities as a father-to-be. As Jade’s anxieties mount, so do her suspicions about this mysterious woman’s motives, which are rapidly shifting from obsessive to downright creepy.
When Jade disappears, Noah must get to the truth before his worst nightmares become real.
Live: Now Live!
Going Under, by Skye Jordan
The latest novel of the Wildfire Lake Series, Going Under brings truth to the notion that good things come in small packages. A quick, sweet read that definitely did not disappoint! Intricately connected, with a seamlessly smooth flow from book one into book two. Skye Jordan once again weaves a well written story, with characters you can't help but fall in love with.
KT has no intention of putting down roots, as she arrives in Wildfire Lake for a girls weekend. That is, until she meets the gorgeous Dr. Ben who unleashes new emotions, and forces her to question her fate.
A widowed single father who needs stability for his family, Ben wants more despite KT’s desire for a casual hookup. As much as he is captivated by her, his heart is resistant to withstand another loss. Will KT forego her desire for adventure for a chance at love, and is Ben willing to open his heart again even if it means he must let her go?
A must read! Skye Jordan, we are eagerly awaiting your next installment!
Thank you to Skye Jordan for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
MarvelUsReads
Posted: August 23, 2020
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Publisher's Description:
Another sweet & steamy read from New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Skye Jordan!
Some women want roses and I love yous. I want hot guys and great sex.
Maybe I've absorbed too much testosterone employed in the male dominated world of mechanics, only, I'm no longer working on a cruise ship with sexy men around every corner. I'm building a business with my two best friends in a small town where reputation is everything.
But it’s only six months before I can take my money and run--straight back to the sea. Only this time I'll have my own sailboat, choose my own destinations, and live by my own rules.
When I meet Dr. Delicious over stitches, we've got instant heat, but he comes with major drawbacks, starting with an affinity for dating and ending with his status as a single dad.
Before I know it, I'm putting together a frilly "dream bed" for Christmas and teaching his oldest to repair a carburetor.
Dr. Delicious is the very definition of commitment, and falling for him is a non-negotiable no way.
Too bad my heart hasn’t gotten that memo.
Live: Now Live!
Running From Love, by Sophie Blue
In an attempt to familiarize ourselves with, and embrace new authors we were eager to participate in Sophie Blue’s Instagram ARC giveaway. We were not only thrilled when we won, but soon found ourselves in awe of her writing. A fast paced romance packed with swoon worthy moments, a secret love affair, steamy chemistry, mixed with a dash of danger, the recipe for a great book. The truly gifted Sophie Blue, created an entertaining quick read in her latest work, Running From Love.
Moving in with her brother, after escaping an unhealthy relationship, Molly attempts to reestablish a sense of normalcy in her life. However, circumventing love proves to be challenging, when she is reunited with an old crush, Nick. Unable to resist their chemistry, things begin to get steamy between the two. Molly’s past unexpectedly presents itself,leading to unforeseen complications.
For those seeking a quick, light, and enjoyable read Blue’s Running From Love will not disappoint!
MarvelUsReads
Posted: August 3, 2020
Rating: 4.3 Stars
*Please note that winning this ARC in no way influenced our rating and review.*
Publisher's Description:
Molly is crashing with her brother after having just got out of a bad relationship. The last thing she needs is to jump into another one. Especially with her brother's best friend.
Nick has had a thing for Molly for years, seeing her back in town and hearing about how her ex mistreated her is torture. He wants to prove to Molly that he can be the man she needs.
Molly may be running from love, but Nick is ready for the chase.
Running From Love is a romantic novella with a guaranteed HEA.
Live: Now Live On Kindle Unlimited!
Five Steps Ahead, by Samantha Baca
Captivating! Nail-Biting! Jaw-Dropping! Samantha Baca’s Five Steps Ahead is a page-turning read, guaranteed to keep you at the edge of your seat!
Hannah, a homesick college student still mourning the death of her father, decides to circumvent her sense of loneliness by utilizing a dating app. Unfortunately, to her dismay what was intended to be a search for happiness, ends up being a nightmare leaving her fending for her life. Someone is watching her...and will stop at nothing to make her his!
Hannah’s case is assigned to none other than the handsome detective Max. She has a stalker and his job is to protect her, but he soon finds himself falling for her. Lines are crossed, perceptions blurred, but can he save her before it's too late?
Each page laced with mystery, betrayal, secrets, murder and romance. Samantha Baca you have wowed us yet again!
Thank you to Samantha Baca for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
MarvelUsReads
Posted: July 12, 2020
Rating: 5 Stars
Publisher's Description :
Roses are red. Violets are blue. You don’t see me. But I’m watching you.
Hannah Anderson gave up her adolescence to care for her ailing father, so when she gets to attend NYU, she’s eager to experience everything the city has to offer. But when an online date ends with her drugged and unconscious, and mysterious notes start appearing in her apartment, freedom no longer seems like all it’s cracked up to be.
Detective Max Romano has had more than his share of heartache. Serving and protecting is his life and leaves no time for romance. When his sister goes missing after meeting a guy from the same dating app, he’s hellbent on keeping Hannah from becoming the next victim.
Now in cramped quarters, Max is up close and personal with all the reasons he can't get involved with Hannah. But their chemistry is combustible. Giving in to their attraction is inevitable, but letting their guard down could prove fatal as the stalker is always five steps ahead.
Live: Now Live On Kindle Unlimited!
What The Heart Wants, by Audrey Carlan
Spellbound and utterly dazzled by Audrey Carlan’s What The Heart Wants! After reading a letter left by her deceased mother, Suda Kaye abandons her former life to travel the world.Ten years later,she has returned home with the intention of starting over, but is it possible to reestablish the life she once knew? With her sister ecstatic and her former lover, Camden ravaged by resentment, neither are convinced she will stay. Will she be able to persuade her loved ones, and reignite the love she once knew with Camden?
A well written, enticing storyline, and enjoyable characters. What The Heart Wants is a great read!
Thank you to HQN Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
MarvelUsReads
Posted: June 12, 2020
Rating: 4.3 Stars
Publisher's Description:
From the #1 bestselling author of the beloved Calendar Girl books comes the first in a witty, wise and emotionally compelling new series, where coming home is just the beginning…
“Fly free.”
For ten years those words, written on pink parchment paper in her mother’s beautiful handwriting, have been Suda Kaye Ross’s guiding star. Every year on her birthday, Suda Kaye opens another of the letters her mother penned before she passed, heeding the advice inside as she fills her life with experiences. From Italy to Australia, from Rio to Russia, she’s slaked her wanderlust. And then, on her twenty-eighth birthday, she opens the letter that sends her home.
Returning to Colorado means confronting everything—and everyone—she left behind, including her cherished sister, Evie, and her first love, Camden Bryant. Suda Kaye and Cam spent four years and one unforgettable night together. Given the way she ran out on him, it’s no surprise that he’s wary, resentful…and engaged to someone else. Evie, hardworking and überresponsible, just wants her sister to put down roots at last.
For Evie’s sake, and her own, Suda Kaye is trying to build a new life, all the while wondering whether it’s too late to come back home—or if the most important part of her never really left.
Live: Now Live!
In Too Deep, by Skye Jordan
Absolutely captivated by Skye Jordan’s quick and intriguing novel, In Too Deep. Consumed with memories from her past, tragedy forces Laiyla to return to Wildfire Lake, a place that holds heartache. However, when reunited with her past love, Levi, sparks fly and their passion reignites. Both realizing that emotions still run deep, Levi refuses to be hurt again and places an ultimatum: it's all or nothing. Will love prevail, or will the past repeat itself?
A well written read, In Too Deep has a great storyline and loveable characters. We adored Laiyla and Levi’s story!
Thank you to Cygnet Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
MarvelUsReads
Posted: July 5, 2020
Rating: 4.3 Stars
Publisher's Description:
A fresh and sexy new series from New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Skye Jordan
I’ve got one hell of a life--the business of my dreams, a close-knit family, and the title of elusive but most-eligible bachelor in town.
The only thing I’m missing now is my heart. I gave it away as a teenager and never got it back.
I didn't think I’d see that girl again. She was my best friend, my first love, the person I couldn’t wait to see arrive in June and couldn’t stand to see leave in September. But the summer she turned eighteen, she flew off to Paris and never looked back.
When she resurfaces twelve years later, I don’t want to want her. I don’t even want to care. I really just want my fucking heart back so I can move on with a normal life--marriage, kids. Hell, I’d settle for a cease-fire in my romantic life.
It turns out we’ve got a shared interest in her grandfather’s land. This could be the perfect opportunity to settle the past. Or it could be the biggest mistake of my life, the one that destroys my heart for good.
Books in the Wildfire Lake series can be read as stand alone novels.
IN TOO DEEP
GOING UNDER
SWEPT AWAY
Live: Now Live!
Never Look Back, by Mary Burton
A string of missing persons, and an agent on the hunt for answers! Mary Burton’s Never Look Back ignites with the brutal attack of Agent Melina Shepard, wherein, she is left covered in evidence and in search of a dangerous perpetrator with a fatal attraction!
In her pursuit of this ruthless assailant, Agent Melina Shepard joins forces with fellow Agent Jerrod Ramsey. However, as the evidence begins to mount and unearth chilling discoveries, their cases unexpectedly begin to collide. The crime scenes continue to soar, as chaos ensues, a kidnapping transpires, and a gripping takedown is at hand, placing lives at stake!
Captured from the very beginning, Mary Burton meticulously unraveled a riveting story with a palpating beginning, intriguing twists and turns, and a jaw dropping explosive finale! A criminal suspense, with a slight touch of romance!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
MarvelUsReads
Posted: April 20, 2020
Rating: 4.3 Stars
Publisher's Description:
After multiple women go missing, Agent Melina Shepard of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation makes the impulsive decision to go undercover as a prostitute. While working the street, she narrowly avoids becoming a serial killer’s latest victim; as much as it pains her to admit, she needs backup.
Enter lone wolf FBI agent Jerrod Ramsey. Stonewalled by a lack of leads, he and Melina investigate a scene where a little girl has been found abandoned in a crashed vehicle. They open the trunk to reveal a horror show and quickly realize they’re dealing with two serial killers with very different MOs. The whole situation brings back memories for Melina—why does this particular case feel so connected to her painful past?
Before time runs out, Melina must catch not one but two serial killers, both ready to claim another victim—and both with their sights set on her.
Live: Now Live!
'Til Death Do Us Part, by Samantha Baca
Debut novelist, Samantha Baca left us in absolute awe in ‘Til Death Do Us Part. This read held us on the edge of our seats with suspense, all the while capturing our hearts. We were engulfed by the terrifying journey Mia faces, as she races to escape an abusive relationship. Entranced by fear, her instincts bring her back to her hometown where she is reunited with her high school crush Chase. As the two begin to explore their renewed desire, danger comes knocking at their door! A definite page turner, and must read!
We look forward to further works!
Thank you to Samantha Baca for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
MarvelUsReads
Posted: May 5, 2020
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Publisher's Description:
Til death do us part wasn’t supposed to be a threat…
After surviving an abusive childhood, Mia Johnson escapes small-town Colorado and meets the man of her dreams. Damian promises her a fairytale life, but delivers a nightmare. Jealous rage turns violent, worsening with each bottle of whiskey. Hidden cameras and tracking spyware make escape seem impossible, but she manages to run.
Chase Walker has never left his tiny hometown, and he’s never forgotten the secret torch he carried for Mia. When she reappears, fearing for her life, he’s desperate to protect her.
Mia takes comfort in the safety of their friendship as lust simmers just beneath the surface. But ominous phone calls keep them both on edge and there’s never a good time for Chase to confess his feelings. With Damian closing in, hellbent on revenge, danger is a constant threat. Will Mia be able to escape Damian a second time or will she die trying?
Live: Now Live on Kindle Unlimited !
Little Secrets, by Jennifer Hillier
Gripping! Page-Turning! Jaw-Dropping! A spiralling web of secrets, lies, and betrayals, Jennifer Hillier’s Little Secrets is a compelling must read!
A seemingly perfect life, shatters in an instant, as Marin’s four year old son is kidnapped. Sixteen months later, reeling with guilt and a broken heart, Marin teeters on the edge of darkness. However, when her husband’s gut wrenching betrayal is unearthed, in an act of desperation she makes an alarming decision with rippling effects, which unleash shocking links to her son’s abduction! It’s all connected...their secrets...their lies...and most of all THEIR BETRAYALS!
Fixated from beginning to end, Little Secrets had us clutching our e-readers until the VERY LAST PAGE!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
MarvelUsReads
Posted: March 11, 2020
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Publisher's Description:
From the author of Jar of Hearts, a mother driven to the edge by the disappearance of her son learns her husband is having an affair with the woman who might have kidnapped him.
Four hundred and eighty seconds. That’s how long it took for someone to steal Marin Machado's four-year-old son.
Marin had the perfect life. Married to her college sweetheart, she owns a chain of upscale hair salons, and Derek runs his own company. They're admired in their community and are a loving family. Up until the day Sebastian is taken.
A year later, Marin is a shadow of herself. The FBI search has gone cold. The publicity has faded. She and her husband rarely speak. The only thing keeping her going is the unlikely chance that one day Sebastian reappears. She hires a P.I. to pick up where the police left off, but instead of finding him, she discovers that Derek is having an affair with a younger woman.
Kenzie Li is an artist and grad student—Instagram famous—and up to her eyeballs in debt. She knows Derek is married. She also knows he's rich, and dating him comes with perks: help with bills, trips away, expensive gifts. He isn't her first rich boyfriend, but she finds herself hoping he'll be the last. She's falling for him—and that was never part of the plan.
Discovery of the affair sparks Marin back to life. She's lost her son; she's not about to lose her husband, too. Kenzie is an enemy with a face, which means this is a problem Marin can fix. But as she sets a plan in motion, another revelation surfaces. Derek's lover might know what happened to their son. And so might Derek.
Live: Now Live!
Before I Called You Mine, by Nicole Deese
A love so pure and selfless, Nicole Deese scripts a beautifully moving love story, in her latest novel, Before I Called You Mine. A heartening journey of adoption that both challenges faith and personal strength. During her journey, Lauren unexpectedly finds love with Joshua, a hero with the essence of patience, support, and sacrifice. However, when her relationship potentially jeopardizes finally becoming a mother, Lauren must face the difficult choice: motherhood or Joshua. Or, can she possibly have them both?
Because I Called You Mine is an earnest portrayal of a spiritual woman’s struggle with doubt, along an emotional journey of adoption. Through her challenges, being blessed with encouraging friends and a new love, who places her needs before that of his own. For fans of Christian romances, Before I Called You Mine is a refreshingly endearing slow burn read. Simply inspiring!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
MarvelUsReads
Posted: February 24, 2020
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Publisher's Description:
Lauren Bailey may be a romantic at heart, but after a decade of matchmaking schemes gone wrong, there's only one match she's committed to now--the one that will make her a mother. Lauren is a dedicated first grade teacher in Idaho, and her love for children has led her to the path of international adoption. To satisfy her adoption agency's requirements, she gladly agreed to remain single for the foreseeable future; however, just as her long wait comes to an end, Lauren is blindsided by a complication she never saw coming: Joshua Avery.
Joshua may be a substitute teacher by day, but Lauren finds his passion for creating educational technology as fascinating as his antics in the classroom. Though she does her best to downplay the undeniable connection between them, his relentless pursuit of her heart puts her commitment to stay unattached to the test and causes her once-firm conviction to waver.
With an impossible decision looming, Lauren might very well find herself choosing between the two deepest desires of her heart . . . even if saying yes to one means letting go of the other.
Live: Now Live!