My review for Angie Fox's DEATH AT THE DRIVE-IN

 

DEATH AT THE DRIVE-IN
Paranormal Romance

 

AUTHOR:
Angie Fox

RELEASE DATE:
March 19, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Moose Island Books

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781957685175

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://angiefox.com/

 

 

Sugarland, Tennessee has not always been the safe and peaceful town it is today. It too has a dark and seedy past… Or so Verity Long discovers. When her ghostly sidekick’s girlfriend gets possessed, she jumps in to help. All the clues lead to a 1956 cold case. Verity and Frankie’s investigation takes them to an abandoned drive-in and an Irish mob’s pub. Can Verity solve the case in time to save her ghostly partner and his girlfriend? And are some secrets better left buried?

Verity always struck me as the selfless type. So, it is no surprise that she willingly offered to help Frankie save Molly. She would never leave any friend, the living or the ghostly, behind. I like the support Verity gets from both her sister and Ellis. Verity knows that when it comes to information, Melody is her “to go” person.

I love Ellis’ steadfast belief in Verity’s ability. He may worry but Ellis knows that she will do what she feels is necessary.

Frankie the German is totally stepping up. In this story, he demonstrates what he is willing to do for Molly. It is nice seeing him being so selfless for a change. Yeah, Frankie still has some deep-seeded issues he needs to work on. But I believe he will eventually get there. I suspect that once he realizes he can trust Verity will Frankie move on.  

The one character that surprised me the most in this book is Virginia, Ellis’ mother, and Verity’s nemesis. I always hated the despicable things she did and said to Verity in the earlier book. Virginia deserved the comeuppance she received in book eleven, GIVE UP THE GHOST. I notice that it humbled her, especially towards Verity. I am also glad that she finally noticed the upstanding man that Ellis is. It always takes a distasteful situation to find out who cares for you.

DEATH AT THE DRIVE-IN is book thirteen in Angie Fox’s paranormal-mystery romance series, SOUTHERN GHOST HUNTER MYSTERIES. The story can easily stand alone, yet I suggest reading the series from start to finish. Each book shows the trials both Verity and Frankie underwent in their unlikely partnership. Poor Ellis, he hardly showed up in this story. That is the only nitpick I have. The only question I have is… When is Verity’s grandmother going to make an appearance!!

My review for Laura Lee Guhrke's "LADY SCANDAL"

 

LADY SCANDAL
Historical Romance

 

AUTHOR:

Laura Lee Guhrke

RELEASE DATE:
June 18, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Forever (Grand Central Publishing)

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781538722640

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://lauraleeguhrke.com/

 

Lady Delia Stratham differs from most ladies of her station. She works as an event/party coordinator at a ritzy London hotel. Delia fears for her employment when Simon Hayden begins to oversee the hotel. At first, she thwarts the man’s every move. Delia’s attitude towards Simon begins to change. The infuriating man makes her feel alive again. Can Delia trust Simon with the hotel and her heart? Or will she put her trust in the wrong man again?

Simon Hayden, a newly titled viscount, is a successful hotelier. His friends entrust him to figure out why the always bustling Savoy Hotel is in the red. Simon begins his investigation with Lady Delia, especially her part within the hotel. The beautiful yet vexing widow is not what he expected. Simon knows he must keep an emotional distance with the woman; however, he cannot seem to resist Delia’s natural allure. What truths will Simon uncover about the Savoy Hotel? And will Delia threaten his strict business ethics?

I am delighted that Delia received her happily ever after. She deserved one. I adore the role Delia played in Max and Evie’s relationship in the previous book. She helped both to realize that they belonged together. I also like Delia’s thoughtfulness towards the working class. Unlike her peers, she never once looked down upon them. Instead, Delia got to know each one employed at the hotel. There is one nitpick I have about Delia. I dislike how she excused her fellow peers’ abdominal entitle mentality.

Simon’s humble beginnings make him the perfect balance for Delia. He does not through around his title to get special treatment. Simon prefers to work for everything he needs or wants. I admire Simon’s work ethics. He does not believe in mixing business with pleasure. Simon fights his growing attraction to Delia so it would not interfere with his investigation. I respect Simon for rather having evidence of a person’s guilt before condemning them.

LADY SCANDAL is the second book in Laura Lee Guhrke’s historical romance series, SCANDAL AT THE SAVOY. The story can stand alone. There is no ongoing back plot that spills over into this novel. The hero of the first book, BOOKSHOP CINDERELLA, does have a role in this story. I am bummed that Evie never appeared in the story. She did get mentioned here or there. However, I like how the author gives us news of their continual happily-ever-after.

I suspect the next book will be about Lady Kay, Delia’s friend, and Devlin, who happens to be Simon’s pal. I cannot wait to see if I am correct. I wondered what transpired between the two fifteen years ago.

My review for Karen Rose's "BURIED TOO DEEP"

 

BURIED TOO DEEP

Romantic Suspense

  

AUTHOR:
Karen Rose

RELEASE DATE:
August 13, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Berkley Publishing Group

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9780593638583

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.karenrosebooks.com/

 

 

Phineas “Phin” Bishop works as a handyman and nighttime security for a PI firm. He wants to become a private investigator; however, his PTSD makes him a flight risk. When a colleague is hurt during a break in, Phin steps forward to help find the one responsible. Their investigation brings them to Cora Winslow. Something about her helps Phin calm his mental demons. He will do anything, even face his inner issues, to keep Cora safe. Can Phin overcome his PTSD to protect Cora? Or will it jeopardize the entire case?

Cora Winslow is a competent librarian in the Garden District of New Orleans, Louisiana. Her father’s discovered body raises a lot of questions like “Who killed him?” and “Who exactly is writing letters to her signed by him?” Cora also needs help catching the person breaking into her home. She soon finds herself entangled in something far more troubling than she bargained for. Cora cannot help but feel safe around Phin. Can she help the Broussard team in their investigation? Or will Cora end up just like her father?

It is no secret that I have a weakness for the wounded/tortured hero types. Phin piqued my interest since his part in BENEATH DARK WATERS, book two. When I learned this novel was his story, I could not hit “request” fast enough. Phineas made quite the impression on me. He is a broken man still grappling with his PTSD, especially the effect it has on his family and friends. My heart hurt for him. I only have one small nitpick. I desperately wanted a reuniting scene between Phin and Jace. He had been so good to the teen in the previous book. It disappointed me when there was not one.

Cora really impressed me. I admire how easily she empathized with Phineas. From the moment they first met, Cora never once saw him as broken or lacking. Instead, Cora saw a man struggling with his PTSD. I also like how she tried to bolster Phineas’ confidence whenever they flagged. Cora refused to allow him to buckle beneath his mental demons.

BURIED TOO DEEP is the third book in Karen Rose’s romantic suspense series, NEW ORLEANS. It is also the twenty-ninth book in her ROMANTIC SUSPENSE series. I have not read all of Karen Rose’s books, just a few here or there. The ones I did read, I enjoyed immensely. The author meshes crime stories with romance effortlessly. Yes, the romance element takes a back seat to the suspense of the plot.

I browsed through the books listed under the ROMANTIC SUSPENSE series. I suspected that many of the side characters, mostly the couples, had books. I never realized that I read Phineas’ sister’s book, even wrote a review for it. It is understandable that I forgot about it since I read ALONE IN THE DARK back in 2015. I have been searching for a book involving Stone and Delores. They did play a role in AITD because I remarked on it in the review.

My review for Nagisa Furuya's "NUMBER CALL"

 

NUMBER CALL
Boys Love

 

 

AUTHOR:
Nagisa Furuya

RELEASE DATE:
March 12, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Kodansha Comics

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781646519460

RATING:
4.5

 

 

Eito and Hachi both have “eight” in their names. They meet by chance when Hachi finds Eito’s test paper and remarks on his name. Their commonality helps them become fast friends. However, things turn awkward when they both realize their true feelings. Can Eito and Hachi overcome their awkwardness before graduation?

NUMBER CALL is a cute and wholesome read. There are no explicit scenes. The romance is more slow burn than raunchy. Eito reminds me of Uenoyama from Given, especially his behavior once he realizes his true feelings for Hachi.

I also enjoyed the mangaka’s art style.

My review for Jennifer Haymore's "How (Not) to Hate a Duke"

 

HOW (NOT) TO HATE A DUKE
Historical Romance

 

 AUTHOR:

Jennifer Haymore

RELEASE DATE:
February 19, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Entangled Publishing,  LLC

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781649375957

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.jenniferhaymore.com/

 

 Miss Georgiana Milford is one of the richest heiresses in England. She wants nothing more than to escape the many fortune-hunters sniffing at her skirts. Georgiana agrees to attend a two-week country party with her friend. She never expected to encounter her family’s mortal enemy: the dastardly St. Clair’s. No matter how hard she tries, Georgiana finds she cannot escape the scoundrel. However, she starts to see that Theo is not the blackguard her father painted him to be. Will their family’s enmity keep them apart?

  Theophilus “Theo” St. Clair, the seventh Duke of Desborough, wants to prove to everyone that he is nothing like his father. However, his neighbors thwart his every attempt. Discouraged, Theo agrees to attend a country party only to find the youngest Milford in attendance. He cannot seem to avoid the shrew. Their time together allows Theo to discover another side of Georgiana. Can Theo right the wrongs his late father committed? Or will they stand in the way of his relationship with Georgiana?

 Georgiana irked me for most of the book. I understand the animosity between her family and Theo’s. It all started with the late duke. However, Georgiana’s father did some underhanded and petty things as well. I expected her to admonish him for his spitefulness. Instead, she excused them, as if her father was in the right.

 Theo won my heart instantly. I could not help but empathize with him. He is a man unfairly branded by the sins of his father. I admire Theo for wanting to fix all the wrongs his sire had done. I also commiserate with him over all the pettiness he endured by the Milfords. It would discourage even the staunchest of hearts.

 HOW (NOT) TO HATE A DUKE is a standalone historical romance by Jennifer Haymore. However, the couple from EARLS RUSH IN do play a role in this book. Charlotte and Finneas are friends with both Georgiana and Theo. I do hope we get to see a story for Theo’s brother Sebastian with Georgiana’s sister.

 

My review of Tsuyoshi Yasuda's The Blue Wolves of Mibu, Volume 1

 

THE BLUE WOLVES OF MIBU Volume 1
Historical Fantasy

 

 

 AUTHOR:

Tsuyoshi Yasuda

RELEASE DATE:
February 27 2024

PUBLISHER:
Kodansha Comics

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9798888770832

RATING:
4

 

 

Thirteen-year-old orphan Nio wants to change the world for the better, especially for children. He grew up during a turbulent time in Kyoto. Nio encounters two mysterious yet interesting men at the shop he works at. When they rescue him from trouble, he agrees to become the third Wolf of the Roshigumi. Nio needs to discover his own sense of righteous justice, so he can move forward. What trails will Nio face?

I like to try out any new anime and mangas that involve the Shinsengumi. Hakuoki and Peacemaker – the animes -are to blame for my interest and curiosity about them. It is neat to see different artists’ and authors’ versions of Hijikata, Okita, Kondo, and the rest. Tsuyoshi Yasuda made both Hijikata and Okita “pretty boys”, I noticed; however, I still prefer Hakouki’s versions, along with their personalities.

THE BLUE WOLVES OF MIBU, like Hakuoki and Peacemaker, involve a teenager joining their ranks. Through trial and difficulties, these youngsters must discover for themselves what paths they should take. I cannot wait to see what kind of role models Hijikata and Okita will be to Nio and his future. I will definitely be picking up this manga to see what happens.

My review for Charis Michaels' THE PRINCE'S BRIDE

 

THE PRINCE’S BRIDE
Historical Romance

 

  

AUTHOR:
Charis Michaels

RELEASE DATE:
May 21, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Avon and Harper Voyager, Avon

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9780063280106

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://charismichaels.com/

 

 

Lady Marianne “Ryan” Daventry desperately needs to find her missing betrothed – an exiled French Prince believed to be dead. She follows the only clue left her: an old letter postmarked near an ancient, spooky forest. Ryan finds herself rescued by a gruff and reclusive horse trainer, only to discover he is the prince she is searching for. However, Gabriel is reluctant to help Ryan escape his cousin’s evil machinations. Can Ryan convince Gabriel to leave the safety of his forest home? Or will she be forced to find another way to save her home and her sisters?

Gabriel Reign purposely abandoned his royal persona. He now lives a modest life in the middle of the forest working with horses. However, his solitary life is turned upside down when Gabriel rescues a woman from highwaymen. The lady turns out to be his childhood betrothed. Gabriel empathizes with Ryan’s plight, but he fears leaving the safety of the forest. Can Gabriel find the courage to step out of his comfort zone? Will he willingly assume his old role to protect Ryan?

Ryan surprised me in a delightfully good way. She is a woman who knows her limitations and accepts them. I admire Ryan’s inner strength. She would do anything to protect her home and sisters from a self-absorbed jerk. Ryan even dared to travel alone without protection. What I liked the most about Ryan is her acceptance of Gabriel’s fear. She understood his reluctance to leave the forest; she did not berate him but empathized with him.

I admit I have a weakness for any hero who shares my youngest son’s name (lol). Even better when that hero is a wounded or tortured type. Gabriel totally tugged on my heartstrings. He is a survival, one who has endured such heartrending ordeals. I understand Gabriel’s reasons for becoming a recluse living in the forest. The author did a good job showing the effects of his trauma. And I like that Gabriel was not instantly “cured”. Every milestone he faced was a trial for him.

I am new to this author’s works. Sadly, I did not read the first book (SAY YES TO THE PRINCESS). I remember looking at it, intrigued by the synopsis but my review queue was full at the time. My loss, one that I hope to remedy soon.

However, that aside, it did not hinder my ability to follow and enjoy the story. The book can easily stand alone. Elise and Killian, the couple from the first book, play a vital role in the second half of the story. I am anticipating the next (and final) installment!

My review of Jill Shalvis' "THE SUMMER ESCAPE"

 

THE SUMMER ESCAPE
Contemporary Romance

 

 AUTHOR:

Jill Shalvis

RELEASE DATE:
June 11, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Avon and Harper Voyager, Avon

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9780063235816

RATING:
5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.jillshalvis.com/

 

 Anna Moore is a private investigator. She finds a rare coin in her deceased father’s possession and gets it appraised. When Anna learns it was stolen, she intends to clear her dad’s name. However, a certain charismatic yet annoying man insists on being a part of the investigation. Anna plans to keep Owen at arm’s length. Add in a meddlesome, heavily pregnant sister into the mix. Can Anna and Owen find the other coins and missing necklace? What truths will she learn about her father?

Owen Harris co-owns a local adventure company. When a certain rare coin appears in the news, he intends to return it to its rightful owner. Owen believes Anna’s father is behind the decades-old theft. He coerces her into allowing him to accompany her in the investigation. However, Owen never intended on feeling a connection with Anna. As the case deepens, his opinion begins to change. Will Owen get his elderly great-aunt’s property back? Can he and Anna find the true culprit?

Anna and Owen have a lot in common. I like how they both believe they are not “keepers”. That they both keep people at arm’s length, afraid to let people in enough to hurt them.

I love Anna and Wendy’s closeness. Even though Wendy annoys her, Anna still knows that her sister loves and worries about her. I like how Owen falls first, especially since he tends to keep emotional distance from the women in his past. I also like his care for his great-aunt. Dementia is a cruel disease. Jill Shalvis does a superb job of showing that, and its toll on their family and loved ones.

THE SUMMER ESCAPE is the sixth book in Jill Shalvis’ contemporary romance series, SUNRISE COVE. Each installment can stand alone. The only thing that connects each story together is the setting: Sunrise Cove in Tahoe, California. I do wish that the characters from the prior books would make an appearance, even if the role is tiny. I just miss them!

Jill Shalvis never fails to make me laugh. And this book is no exception! There were several scenes, especially involving Wendy, that had me snickering. I always know when I pick up a book with her name on it, I am going to thoroughly enjoy it.