Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Blonde Who Came in From the Cold by Ally Carter

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring The Blonde Who Came in From the Cold by Ally Carter. I'm loving it! There have been so many laugh-out-loud moments. Release day is August 5th. I should have my review up sometime next week. 

About the Book

An action-packed, second-chance rom-com about two rival spies who must join forces in order to stay alive, from New York Times bestselling author Ally Carter.

Ten years ago, they joined the CIA.

Six years ago, he left the game.

Five years ago, they fell in love.

One year ago, she ran out into the cold with absolutely no intention of ever coming back.

And two minutes ago, they woke up, bloody and bruised and handcuffed together in the dark.

They don’t know where they are. They don’t know how they got there. And they have absolutely no idea who is after them or what this nameless, faceless villain wants.

The only thing that’s clear is that, after ten years of covers and chemistry, secrets and lies, these two rival spies have been sucked into their greatest mission yet, and now they’re going to have to team up to stay alive. (If they don’t kill each other first.)

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Ten Years Ago

Washington, DC

As luck would have it, the first time Alexandra Sterling really wanted to kill a man happened to be the night before she started spy school. 

Friday 56

"Tell me again why you had a crossbow in your luggage?"

What have you been reading lately? 

Can't Wait Wednesday: Secrets Along the Shore: Beach Read Thrillers by Jaime Jo Wright, Taylor S. Newport, D.L. Wood, Julia Blythe

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Secrets Along the Shore: Beach Read Thrillers by Jaime Jo Wright, Taylor S. Newport, D.L. Wood, Julia Blythe releasing August 15. This sounds like the perfect summer read! Featuring a couple of my favorite authors, and a couple who are new to me, I'm so excited! 

About the Book

Four exhilarating summer thrillers of faith, love and excitement!

The Ones I Left to Die - Jaime Jo Wright
A decade before, Noa Lorne escaped the sadistic clutches of the Serpent, a serial killer known by the telltale mark he carved into the necks of his victims. She has learned to live being the only known survivor, but her recollection is sketchy, and her desire to relive the trauma, nonexistent. But now a new victim has been discovered, and it seems the Serpent has returned. With a detective from the cold case division desperate to connect the dots, Noa concedes that to find the Serpent, she must remember them—the other victims—the ones she’d behind left to die.

Survival Mode - Taylor S. Newport
Medically discharged from the Australian SAS, Tyler Reid struggles to adjust to life as a civilian. When an old friend offers him a high-risk mission to rescue a woman and her son from a ruthless crime boss, Tyler can’t refuse. The assignment is deadly, the enemy relentless, and Tyler's new teammates are strangers. Can he trust them? As he fights off the enemy, the stakes rise with every move, testing his limits and pushing him to his breaking point. In a world where survival depends on split second choices, failure is not an option.

All That Lies Beneath - D.L. Wood
The case was closed. Until another body turned up.
Private investigator Sophie Walsh thought the nightmare was over when a conviction finally came in the Perfect Princess serial killings. But when another young woman is found murdered—with the same chilling signature—the certainty shatters. As whispers of a copycat, partner, or devastating mistake surface, Sophie races to uncover the truth. Did they convict the right man? Or is the real killer still watching—and ready to strike again?
Set in a small Southern town with secrets as deep as the Tennessee River, All That Lies Beneath delivers gripping suspense with twists you won’t see coming.

The Girl Between Us - Julia Blythe
Typically, strong friendships never develop between a local and a summer girl—especially a summer girl from the school for the Deaf. But that’s just what happens when Scarlet McBride is chosen every summer to spend July 4th week at the school headmaster’s lake lodge. Surprisingly, the headmaster has left her the lodge in his will. Fifteen years since her last summer at the lake, Scarlet returns with plans to sell the house but learns her old summer friend Becca Bishop still resides across the water. They had once been inseparable—until the night Becca’s little sister drowned. That’s when all fingers pointed at the outsider as the one to blame, and Scarlet was never chosen again—until now.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: A Montana-Sized Secret by Allie Pleiter

About the Book

Can she trust him again

For the sake of their baby?

Returning to High Mountain pregnant is not the fresh start Carly Davis imagined—nor is telling Jack Peters he’s the father. And with Jack in the early stages of addiction recovery, she questions if he can handle being a parent. But Jack is determined to show that he’s changed, and a chance to prove himself arises when they must care for a litter of rescued baby bunnies. Trust slowly builds between them again, but as unexpected news threatens their fragile bond, can they overcome the uncertainties to be the family they both need?

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

“Don’t tell God the size of your problem, tell your problem the size of God.”

I absolutely loved this heartfelt and touching story. Serious and hard topics were discussed and handled with grace.

Jack had a lot to make up for, a lot of apologies and mending of relationships to do. I appreciated the fact that he owned up to his mistakes and was trying to make amends. It was good to see him actively trying to be a better man.

Carly had a lot to deal with. There were a lot of things weighing heavily on her mind. The worry of judgment from friends, family, the small town she lived in, her fractured relationship with Jack, and the disappointment she felt in herself. I really felt for her and was rooting her on.

I thought working together with the bunnies and then at VBS was a great way for Jack and Carly to break the ice again. I appreciated that there were some lighter moments amidst the serious topics. I thought there was a nice balance. I loved watching their faith grow and learning to lean on God.

I loved this story of second chances and new beginnings. If you’re a fan of touching, heartfelt, and emotional Christian fiction, you’ll love it too! I can’t recommend it highly enough!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: Buried Wilderness Secrets by Jaime Jo Wright

About the Book

Uncovering cold case secrets

could be deadly…

Montana park ranger Aaliyah Terrence finds a serial killer’s burial ground—and narrowly survives the brutal attack that follows. And when cold case detective Wade Marlowe reveals that her birth mother was the murderer’s first victim, it soon becomes clear that Aaliyah has been marked as his next target. As their search into the past reveals old skeletons and puts Aaliyah in ever-increasing danger, she’ll have to rely on Wade to keep her safe. But will they discover the killer’s identity before she meets the same end as her mother?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

She wasn’t supposed to find human bones in the wilderness.

I’m so excited Jaime Jo Wright is branching out into a new genre! I love her Gothic dual timelines, so I was very eager to check out this Love Inspired Suspense. It did not disappoint! I loved it!

Aaliyah becomes the target of a dangerous killer after she and her dog stumble upon his secret burial grounds. Wade, a detective, thinks this could be connected to a cold case he’s working on. He also thinks there’s a personal connection to Aaliyah. After getting off on the wrong foot, they reluctantly join forces to try to solve the case before Aaliyah becomes the next victim.

I really liked Aaliyah and Wade. I also loved Aaliyah’s dog, Peaches. She was such an awesome canine friend.

The mystery kept me hooked and reading as fast as I could. I had my suspicions about who the guilty party was, but there were a couple of other suspects I was suspicious of, so I wasn’t sure until right before the reveal.

If you’re looking for a romantic suspense that will keep you on your toes, grab a copy of this book. You won’t be disappointed. I’m looking forward to more stories in this genre from Jaime Jo Wright.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Quarter Labyrinth (Into the Labyrinth Book 1) by Victoria McCombs

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Quarter Labyrinth by Victoria McCombs. I'm a little over halfway into it and am loving it!

About the Book

EVERY FOUR YEARS, THE LABYRINTH AWAKENS. It shifts location, resets its deadly puzzles, and demands a new game. The rich pay for clues to find it and keys to get in, while the poor fight for entrance. This year, the first to reach the center wins control over the renowned trade vessels. Strange, because Ren specifically remembers her father—the captain—promised her those ships. But her father had the misfortune of going missing before revealing Ren as his hidden heir. And she’s never actually met him. Only through scraps of letters she keeps in a trunk, promising he’d return to the island for her someday.

There isn’t time for her father to explain. Ren has until sundown to find the labyrinth and get inside before its entrance is sealed.

Even if she makes it through the gate, she must race against others who are just as determined as she is—and far deadlier. Then there’s the Labyrinth Wolves. And the Stone Gods. And the son of her father’s enemy who takes a personal interest in Ren. She will fight for her birthright through wits, strength, and perhaps a bit of luck to be the one at the helm with her future begins.

May you find yourself in the labyrinth.
At least, may you not lose yourself.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

The sky turned violet as the countdown in my head reached its end.

Friday 56

I clutched Leif's dagger as if it could single-handedly save me.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: The Faux Must Go On (The Worst Detective Ever Book 13) by Christy Barritt

About the Book

Sometimes the hardest role to play is yourself.

When actress Joey Darling agrees to help an old friend infiltrate a self-help retreat with high-profile participants, she expects the usual Hollywood nonsense: overpriced seminars, questionable life coaches, heavy doses of mumbo jumbo, and maybe some dodgy juice cleanses. What she doesn't expect is to find herself trapped at a beachfront mansion surviving on meals so small they take a magnifying glass to find, watching identities go up in flames, and enduring brutal trust exercises better designed for Navy SEALs.

As those who dare to resist start disappearing, Joey wonders if the only thing being transformed at this retreat is participants’ life expectancy—and possibly their bank accounts. To survive, Joey must channel her inner TV detective. But with no scriptwriter to save the day, no phone, no car keys, and no decent coffee in sight, can she improvise and solve the case before the final curtain falls?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Joey Darling is back, and I couldn’t be more excited! This is my favorite Christy Barritt series, and I always love revisiting these characters. This was another fun, exciting, and fast-paced addition to the series.

A friend asks Joey to help investigate a possible cult. They go to a retreat the organization is holding, and things take a dangerous turn! There are strange mishaps, missing people, dangerous trust exercises, and, to top it all off, a mysterious death! This might be Joey's most high-risk case yet!

While this book features Joey’s typical humor and shenanigans, there is also a fair amount of suspense and even a bit of a psychological thriller aspect to it. My anxiety was definitely high while I was reading this story.

It can be read as a standalone, so if you’re new to the series, you can dive in here. Be prepared to want to devour the previous books, though! They’re all so good! I can't recommend it highly enough!

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Blonde Who Came In from the Cold (The Blonde Identity Series Book 2) by Ally Carter

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Blonde Who Came In from the Cold (The Blonde Identity Series Book 2) by Ally Carter releasing August 5.

About the Book

An action-packed, second-chance rom-com about two rival spies who must join forces in order to stay alive, from New York Times bestselling author Ally Carter.

Ten years ago, they joined the CIA.

Six years ago, he left the game.

Five years ago, they fell in love.

One year ago, she ran out into the cold with absolutely no intention of ever coming back.

And two minutes ago, they woke up, bloody and bruised and handcuffed together in the dark.

They don’t know where they are. They don’t know how they got there. And they have absolutely no idea who is after them or what this nameless, faceless villain wants.

The only thing that’s clear is that, after ten years of covers and chemistry, secrets and lies, these two rival spies have been sucked into their greatest mission yet, and now they’re going to have to team up to stay alive. (If they don’t kill each other first.)

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Burning Truth (Chasing Fire: Alaska Book 5) by Kelly Underwood

About the Book

RESCUE. DANGER. DEVOTION.
THIS TIME, THEIR HEARTS ARE ON THE LINE.

She’s on a mission to revive her career...

Dani Barlowe, disgraced journalist, has been given one last chance to redeem herself—follow a tip about a secret militia compound in the Alaskan wilderness and get the scoop that will put her back on top. But when her investigation takes a dangerous turn, she finds herself running for her life. Dani's only hope is the rugged hotshot firefighter who comes to her rescue. As danger closes in, she'll have to trust this mountain man with her life...

He'd risk everything to protect his home…

Grizz has one goal: fight fires and protect the Alaskan forests he calls home. But when a reckless, albeit beautiful, reporter trespasses on his territory, he finds himself in the middle of a terrorist plot bent on destroying everything he’s got left to care for. It seems he’ll have to do the very thing he swore he’d never do again: trust.

Brace yourself for a blazing tale of suspense, courage, and redemption in the untamed Alaskan wild.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I’m loving this series! This was another exciting and heart-pounding addition. I couldn’t read fast enough. Things are really heating up.

The militia is still wreaking havoc, and Dani and Grizz find themselves in their crosshairs.

I was so happy to learn more about Grizz. He’s a grumpy hotshot with serious trust issues, but there was something incredibly likable about him.

To repair the damage to her credibility, journalist Dani is hoping the story she’s working on about the militia will do just that. I admired her resiliency and determination.

I loved the faith element in this story. Both Dani and Grizz had their issues with God, but I really enjoyed watching their spiritual growth and learning to trust God.

If you’re a fan of unputdownable, adventure-filled romantic suspense, you do not want to miss out on this series! I highly recommend it! Be sure to start with book one, and you’ll be hooked. I’m so excited for the final book in this series. I’m anxious to find out how it all ends!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

4.5 STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Faux Must Go On (The Worst Detective Ever Book 13) by Christy Barritt

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring The Faux Must Go On (The Worst Detective Ever Book 13) by Christy Barritt. This is my favorite series by Barritt, so I was excited to see a new addition! It's exceeding all expectations! 

About the Book

Sometimes the hardest role to play is yourself.

When actress Joey Darling agrees to help an old friend infiltrate a self-help retreat with high-profile participants, she expects the usual Hollywood nonsense: overpriced seminars, questionable life coaches, heavy doses of mumbo jumbo, and maybe some dodgy juice cleanses. What she doesn't expect is to find herself trapped at a beachfront mansion surviving on meals so small they take a magnifying glass to find, watching identities go up in flames, and enduring brutal trust exercises better designed for Navy SEALs.

As those who dare to resist start disappearing, Joey wonders if the only thing being transformed at this retreat is participants’ life expectancy—and possibly their bank accounts. To survive, Joey must channel her inner TV detective. But with no scriptwriter to save the day, no phone, no car keys, and no decent coffee in sight, can she improvise and solve the case before the final curtain falls?

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

"Did you say you need my help?" I gripped my phone as my lips curled into a smile.

Those were music to my ears. I could never resist a legit excuse to be nosy - I mean, to help someone in need.

Friday 56

Back in our room, Audrey and I sat on our respective beds. I was still dripping wet and traumatized. The seafoam-green walls and ocean view seemed to mock the horror we'd just witnessed.

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Buried Wilderness Secrets by Jaime Jo Wright

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Buried Wilderness Secrets by Jaime Jo Wright releasing July 29. This is a new genre for Wright and I'm so excited to check it out! 

About the Book

Uncovering cold case secrets

could be deadly…

Montana park ranger Aaliyah Terrence finds a serial killer’s burial ground—and narrowly survives the brutal attack that follows. And when cold case detective Wade Marlowe reveals that her birth mother was the murderer’s first victim, it soon becomes clear that Aaliyah has been marked as his next target. As their search into the past reveals old skeletons and puts Aaliyah in ever-increasing danger, she’ll have to rely on Wade to keep her safe. But will they discover the killer’s identity before she meets the same end as her mother?

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Darkfell by Amanda Wright

About the Book

His is a life of books and peace...
Until a dying warrior’s touch ignites an ancient magic within his blood.

For years, Thom Darkfell has used his cartography skills to advise Lomair’s king of the country's shifting borders. A valued academic, Thom is excluded from the military drafts until whispers of dark abominations and mass casualties reach the king’s ears. The resulting conscription thrusts Thom into Lomair’s losing army. A realist, Thom ignores the wild myths circling through the ranks—until a monster’s jaws snap through the folds of reality and crush a man before Thom’s eyes. With his dying breath, the Realm Walker passes an impossible task to Thom.

Hours later, the visions begin. The Creator, a deity Thom knows only from rituals spoken over meals and graves, appears to him while a girl with starlight in her blood calls from beyond the veil.

Armed with a cryptic map, a biscuit-loving tutor, and the brawn of his best friend, Thom sets out to find the star daughter and lock the barrier to bind the dark realm of Zakar.

If he fails, it will be the end of all.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

If I had to describe Darkfell in one word, it'd be: epic! It’s so good. A grand-scale adventure and battle between good and evil. I really enjoyed it.

Thom was a likable and relatable character. He’s a bookish, slightly nerdy grump, yet a completely lovable and reluctant hero. He was so easy to root for.

I loved seeing the brotherly bond between Thom and Puck, his best friend and “adopted” brother. They made a great team. Puck’s lighthearted and fun demeanor was a good balance to Thom’s more serious nature.

I really liked Norealle too. I thought the budding romance between her and Thom was really sweet.

And I can’t forget to mention Traell. He was a little menace, but so entertaining.

I did think that the pace was a little uneven at times, but other than that, this was a very enjoyable read. I recommend it to fans of adventure-filled Christian fantasy.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

Relatable Quotes from Thom:
To be truthful, he enjoyed the company of his books over that of most other people.

“I’d rather read words than speak them.”

FOUR STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Darkfell by Amanda Wright

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Darkfell by Amanda Wright. This is a fun epic fantasy! 

About the Book

His is a life of books and peace...
Until a dying warrior’s touch ignites an ancient magic within his blood.

For years, Thom Darkfell has used his cartography skills to advise Lomair’s king of the country's shifting borders. A valued academic, Thom is excluded from the military drafts until whispers of dark abominations and mass casualties reach the king’s ears. The resulting conscription thrusts Thom into Lomair’s losing army. A realist, Thom ignores the wild myths circling through the ranks—until a monster’s jaws snap through the folds of reality and crush a man before Thom’s eyes. With his dying breath, the Realm Walker passes an impossible task to Thom.

Hours later, the visions begin. The Creator, a deity Thom knows only from rituals spoken over meals and graves, appears to him while a girl with starlight in her blood calls from beyond the veil.

Armed with a cryptic map, a biscuit-loving tutor, and the brawn of his best friend, Thom sets out to find the star daughter and lock the barrier to bind the dark realm of Zakar.

If he fails, it will be the end of all.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Titus, immortal master of the realm of Zakar, stood in the center of his courtyard. 

Friday 56

They stepped out of the forest onto a small beach, and Thom shook his head in wonder. The lake was narrow, but it glimmered like a diamond between the forest walls. The snow-capped mountain at its end cast a perfect reflection across the icy blue water.

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Beneath False Stars (Project Integration Book 1) by S.D. Grimm

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Beneath False Stars (Project Integration Book 1) by S.D. Grimm releasing September 9. 

About the Book

What they don’t see will hurt them.

The day to open the centuries-old Dome gates and reintegrate genetically engineered people back into normal society has arrived. There's one caveat—their powers must remain suppressed.

Amidst this Project Integration Initiative, hacker Ryleigh Stevens has her whole life planned out. The plan? Prevent a second Universal Tech War in two simple steps. First, help Project Integration Phase One succeed—but not for the reason she pretends. Next, infiltrate the rebellion and sabotage Phase Two—the part that would grant people unbridled access to their superhuman abilities.

Too bad the one person who can make her plan reality is her sworn enemy. He’s dangerous. He’s Powered. And he’s the reason her brother is dead. Faced with an impossible choice, Ryleigh must decide how to do what’s right for the good of all humanity, even if it means sacrificing everything she holds dear—again.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: The Crier Stone (The Chaos Grid Book 2) by Lyndsey Lewellen

About the Book

Brave the Plex. Unleash the stone. Embrace your destiny.

Freshly freed from an earth-dwelling monster, Juniper Conway is stuck with a promise she never intended to make. But if rescuing Plex City from a deadly nano drug is what she vowed, it’s what she’ll do.

Miles of wasteland stretch between Juniper and the domed city. In the Texas Outer Grid, following a tribe of whalers seems to be her best bet at surviving the chaotic storms. But when the nomadic tribes prove just as dangerous as the Grid itself, Juniper realizes her streak of bad luck is far from over.

Only her shipping crew friends can help her through the waste and into the Plex. When the crier stone guiding her mission only shows her fragmented steps, Juniper will need more than the stone around her neck and a halfhearted promise to make it out alive.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Enclave Publishing Store / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

What an epic sequel to The Chaos Grid! This high-stakes story exceeded all my expectations! I was hooked from the very first sentence and flew through the pages. The lightning-fast pace had me catching my breath as I tried to keep up!

The worldbuilding in this series is fantastic! As a lifelong Texas native, it’s been really interesting to see this possible future! Slightly terrifying too, lol!

I loved how, despite all the dangerous and crazy things Juna encountered, she still trusted God and His plans. She might not have understood why He was calling her to do it, but she knew there was a purpose to it all. I absolutely loved seeing that kind of strong faith!

This is one of the most imaginative dystopias that I’ve read. If you’re a fan of this genre, pick up a copy of this series! You won’t be disappointed. Be sure to start with book one.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: Burning Secrets (Chasing Fire: Alaska Book 4) by Susan May Warren

About the Book

RESCUE. DANGER. DEVOTION.
THIS TIME, THEIR HEARTS ARE ON THE LINE.

Wrong place, wrong time…

Wildlife biologist JoJo Butcher isn’t just a smokejumper for the Midnight Sun crew—she’s also in Alaska to finish up her wolf research…until, oops, she finds herself face-to-face with a wolf with nowhere to go…
And then she’s rescued by a hero from the woods. Who exactly is he, and what secrets is he hiding?

He's living a double life...

Undercover FBI informant Michael Crew Sterling hates his life. Buried deep inside a domestic terrorist group, he’s in over his head, trying to discover their lethal plans. And then he saves the life of JoJo Butcher, and suddenly she is sunshine to his dark soul…

Until she accidentally walks into nightmare.

Now Crew must keep her alive by proving that she’s his girlfriend. And she has to play along, or they’ll both be killed. And when they discover what the group is really doing, Crew will have to make a choice that could cost him everything he’s sacrificed to save the woman he’s falling for.

Book four in the epic Chasing Fire: Alaska series is an edge-of-your seat tale of danger, loyalty, and the power of hope in the darkest night.

Amazon/ Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This high-stakes romantic suspense kept me glued to the pages and reading as fast as I could. This series just keeps getting better! This is my favorite yet. (Do I say that every time? Maybe, lol!)

JoJo is a smokejumper and also studying to become a wildlife biologist. She’s been studying a wolfpack in the area and finds herself in a terrifying situation while checking up on them. Crew, who’s been undercover in the militia that’s been terrorizing the area, saves her. What follows is a gripping tale of rising danger and sweet romance.

JoJo and Crew had amazing chemistry right from the start, and I was rooting for their fake relationship to turn into the real deal. They were so great together. I loved that they both had a very strong faith. It was inspiring to see them lean on the Lord throughout some seriously dire situations.

I appreciated getting more information on the militia. I’m very eager for the next book to see what happens next! If you’re a fan of exciting and fast-paced romantic suspense, I highly recommend this series. Start with book one, and you’ll be hooked!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

4.5 STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Burning Secrets (Chasing Fire: Alaska Book 4) by Susan May Warren

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Burning Secrets (Chasing Fire: Alaska Book 4) by Susan May Warren. This series just keeps getting better and better! 

About the Book

RESCUE. DANGER. DEVOTION.
THIS TIME, THEIR HEARTS ARE ON THE LINE.

Wrong place, wrong time…

Wildlife biologist JoJo Butcher isn’t just a smokejumper for the Midnight Sun crew—she’s also in Alaska to finish up her wolf research…until, oops, she finds herself face-to-face with a wolf with nowhere to go…
And then she’s rescued by a hero from the woods. Who exactly is he, and what secrets is he hiding?

He's living a double life...

Undercover FBI informant Michael Crew Sterling hates his life. Buried deep inside a domestic terrorist group, he’s in over his head, trying to discover their lethal plans. And then he saves the life of JoJo Butcher, and suddenly she is sunshine to his dark soul…

Until she accidentally walks into nightmare.

Now Crew must keep her alive by proving that she’s his girlfriend. And she has to play along, or they’ll both be killed. And when they discover what the group is really doing, Crew will have to make a choice that could cost him everything he’s sacrificed to save the woman he’s falling for.

Book four in the epic Chasing Fire: Alaska series is an edge-of-your seat tale of danger, loyalty, and the power of hope in the darkest night.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Normal people, on their day off, might go into town, grab a pizza, a chocolate shake, maybe hang out with the other smokejumpers.

But apparently, she wasn't normal.

Friday 56

Rio's words played in JoJo's brain, thumping as the campfire sparked into the hazy dim-lit night. She sat on a half-hewn log facing the campfire, wrung out but wanting to linger.

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: If All Else Sails by Emma St. Clair

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring If All Else Sails by Emma St. Clair releasing August 5.

About the Book
In this enemies-to-lovers romance, school nurse Josie and her brother's best friend--hockey player Wyatt Jacobs--are tricked into spending a summer together that's anything but smooth sailing.

When Josie's brother sends her to a random address for their (sometimes) annual Super Summer Sibling Extravaganza, she finds neither siblings nor extravaganzas. Instead, ends up at a run-down cottage on the Northern Neck of Virginia occupied by a hockey player she knows and loathes.

A hockey player who isn't just one of her sports agent brother's clients. He's also his best friend. And Josie's sworn enemy.

Oh--and her brother wants Josie to help Wyatt recover from his injury.

Dragging grumpy hockey players to physical therapy is a far cry from bandaging skinned knees, but for the price her brother offers to pay, Josie is willing to try.

Even if it means sharing what she dubs the quaint little murder cottage with Wyatt.

Begrudgingly, Josie starts to see a little more of the man behind the grumpy exterior. And when she finds out he was supposed to sail the Intracoastal Waterway south to Savannah scattering his uncle's ashes, Josie surprises even herself by offering to be Wyatt's first mate.

Smooth sailing is nowhere to be found, and Josie begins to wonder if they'll be able to make it home without killing--or kissing?--each other.

And yet, the longer they share cramped quarters and canned food, the more of Wyatt's layers she peels back until Josie realizes she misunderstood him, their shared history, and perhaps herself as well.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Fire Mountain (Elements of Danger Book 1) by Dana Mentink

About the Book

Fire rains from above as they fight to discover the truth and stay alive.

In the shadow of a threatening volcano, long-haul trucker Kit Garrido wakes up in her crashed big rig, unable to recall what happened or why she's suddenly in possession of someone's baby. Fiercely independent, she has to admit that perhaps this time she could use a little help.

As the threat of eruption grows, former cop Cullen Landry refuses to leave his cabin in the evacuation area, which is why he's the only one left who can help Kit escape the crumpled cab of her truck. He doesn't want to get tangled up in the mystery of the beautiful woman with an abandoned infant, but when he sees the bullet hole in the windshield and the bloody handprint on the interior, he realizes that he's in this thing, like it or not.

When two armed men with ill intent approach, the race is on to stay alive, discover the truth, and find the baby's missing mother--all while a deadly mountain rains fire from above.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Baker Book House / Author Website / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Y’all! This book was so good! It completely grabbed my attention and still hasn’t let go. Fast-paced, action-packed, and with danger coming from all sides, this book is the very definition of unputdownable. I couldn’t read fast enough. It’s my favorite Dana Mentink book yet!

Kit has no memory of how she crashed her big rig or why there’s a baby in the backseat, but with a volcano ready to erupt and the mysterious bullet holes in her truck, danger is quickly approaching, and she knows she has to act now. With the help of former cop Cullen, it’s a race against time as they try to reach safety before disaster strikes.

I really liked Cullen. He was just an all-around good guy. It took me a little bit to warm up to Kit, but it wasn’t long before I ended up liking her too. I also really liked Archie. He was awesome!

When I was a kid, I had a major fear of volcanoes. Like, I was terrified! So, you could say that my anxiety was a little (okay, maybe a lot) high with the threat of the imminent eruption. I had no idea how these characters were going to make it out of the dicey situation they were in. Add in the baby and the bad guys who were after them, and that fear went even higher!

I absolutely loved this book and highly recommend it! If you’re looking for a suspenseful, high-stakes story of survival, you’ll love it!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: Shattered (The Lost Sovereign Book 1) by Anna Hawke

About the Book
Six legions. Two immortals. One secret that could kill them both.

Centuries ago, the immortal world shattered. The Queen was murdered, the royal bloodline lost, and the six ruling legions have been slowly crumbling ever since. Without the Queen, their magic corrupts—and their people with it.

Jade has spent her life fighting for control—of herself, her business, and the world around her. When the ruthless CEO who engineered her downfall is revealed to be an immortal from a rival legion—and her fated mate—everything she built threatens to come undone.

Niko has one goal: slay the First Legion’s leader and avenge the past. Destroying Julian’s corporate interests should have been simple—until he discovers his sworn enemy’s fiercest defender is also the woman fate marked as his. Torn between duty and desire, Niko must decide whether his thirst for revenge is stronger than the soul-deep bond he was born to claim.

Bound by passion but divided by loyalty, Jade and Niko are enemies by birth ... and something far more dangerous by fate.

Author's Note

Shattered is a dual perspective paranormal romance with urban fantasy elements. As part of the Lost Sovereign series, it can be read as a standalone, but we recommend that they be read in order. While the romance within sizzles, this series is fade to black/closed door.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

Y'all! This book was so good! I loved it! I was hooked from the first sentence to the last and couldn't read fast enough!

I'm a big fan of urban fantasy. If I had to pick a favorite genre, that would probably be it. Shattered is urban fantasy at its finest! The worldbuilding was great. It felt unique, yet familiar. And I thought the magic system was fascinating!

I really appreciated the fact that this featured a closed-door romance with no strong swearing. That's not always easy to find in this genre, so I was very happy about that.

I loved both Niko and Jade. While there was an enemies vibe between them in the beginning, I loved watching that dynamic shift. Their banter and chemistry was off the charts. To say sparks were flying is an understatement.

I highly, highly recommend this book! It's the first one I've read by this author, but it certainly won't be my last. I'm very eager for the next book in the series and am excited to check out the author's backlist!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Fire Mountain (Elements of Danger Book 1) by Dana Mentink

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Fire Mountain (Elements of Danger Book 1) by Dana Mentink. I loved it! It such a high stakes adventure! This book releases Tuesday, July 1, and I should have my review up then. 

About the Book

Fire rains from above as they fight to discover the truth and stay alive.

In the shadow of a threatening volcano, long-haul trucker Kit Garrido wakes up in her crashed big rig, unable to recall what happened or why she's suddenly in possession of someone's baby. Fiercely independent, she has to admit that perhaps this time she could use a little help.

As the threat of eruption grows, former cop Cullen Landry refuses to leave his cabin in the evacuation area, which is why he's the only one left who can help Kit escape the crumpled cab of her truck. He doesn't want to get tangled up in the mystery of the beautiful woman with an abandoned infant, but when he sees the bullet hole in the windshield and the bloody handprint on the interior, he realizes that he's in this thing, like it or not.

When two armed men with ill intent approach, the race is on to stay alive, discover the truth, and find the baby's missing mother--all while a deadly mountain rains fire from above.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Cold and ice-pick pain bored into Kit Garrido's temples. Her limbs were leaden, her body a deadweight in the driver's seat of her big rig. Grit coated her tongue and teeth. She tasted blood. Try as she might, she couldn't reach out to unbuckle her seatbelt. Panic bubbled up inside her.

Friday 56

All around them rocks and branches thumped against the vehicle. She didn't know how Cullen was keeping them upright. She thanked God she'd fastened her seatbelt. 

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: No Stone Unturned by Jenelle Hovde

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring No Stone Unturned by Jenelle Hovde releasing July 15. 

About the Book

She wants to uncover the past. He wishes to build a future. In this Regency romance set in rolling hills of West Sussex, two opposing wills discover their fate may lie in the common ground.

Miss Bridget Littleton’s passion for history and antiquities defies most social conventions, even in her small village nestled in the beautiful English countryside. When a local farmer discovers an elaborate mosaic buried in his field, Bridget dreams of making a name and future for herself by excavating the Roman ruins. Unfortunately, her quest puts her at odds with the ambitious new lord who recently inherited the title and Hawthorn Abbey from his estranged uncle.

Recovering from wounds of both body and spirit, Captain Rafe Hawthorn is intent on restoring his long-neglected ancestral home. His plans to rebuild the abbey’s once thriving orchards require a road that will pass straight through Bridget’s potential trove of artifacts. He will not—cannot—fail again, even if he is moved by Bridget and her passion.

Yet this impasse might not be their greatest obstacle. A natural disaster and a series of suspicious accidents threaten both their plans, along with the livelihood of the nearby villagers dependent on their success. With their dreams in the balance, Bridget and Rafe must work together to fend off an unexpected enemy that may prove more dangerous than either could have imagined.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Review: Echoes of Darkness by Darlene L. Turner

About the Book

A serial killer stalks a small town, and a police officer must face her family’s dark past to catch him.

The sleepy community of Kenorapeake Falls in northern Ontario seems like somewhere Constable Oaklynn Brock can finally outrun her violent past. That is, until she’s assigned to investigate a series of suspicious deaths. She can’t reveal that she knows how serial killers think because she grew up with one. Yet the eerie similarities between these murders and those committed by her father, known as the Suicide Slayer, hint at a copycat in their midst. But why here and why now?

Caleb Greene of the Canadian Watchers Squad, a special task force, has his own reasons to be wary of working alongside Oaklynn. But with rumors of a local cult known as the Light Paragons gaining power, the stakes are too high to refuse.

As they explore connections between the killings and cult, Oaklynn and Caleb are forced to confront old secrets…and a terrifying new threat. Someone is watching Oaklynn’s every move. They know exactly who she is and what she might be capable of. And soon her biggest fear isn’t just having her past exposed, but that a killer will turn whatever days she has left into a living nightmare…

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

Y'all! I absolutely loved this fast-paced, dark, and twisty romantic thriller. I was immediately pulled in and glued to the pages, reading as fast as I could. I was hooked from the first sentence to the last. It’s a definite contender for book of the year.

I really liked Oaklynn. She's the daughter of the infamous Suicide Slayer, and with a copycat making their presence known, her unique insights into a serial killer's mind could be a huge advantage in finding and stopping this dangerous imitator. I was cheering her on in her high-stakes quest!

I also really liked Caleb. He had some secrets and a dark past of his own, but I loved seeing how he'd overcome it. He and Oaklynn made a great team.

The mystery of who the copycat was had me stumped! I thought I had it figured out several times, but nope! I was completely shocked by the reveal!

While this book tackles some dark subjects, I really appreciated that there was light and hope amidst it all. I loved the strong message of faith and how you could see God's goodness shining despite it all.

This book would make a great TV show! I loved it and highly, highly recommend it! If you’re a fan of Jessica Patch’s twisty thrillers, you’ll love this book!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my own opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: Burning Escape (Chasing Fire: Alaska Book 3) by Michelle Sass Aleckson

About the Book

RESCUE. DANGER. DEVOTION.
THIS TIME, THEIR HEARTS ARE ON THE LINE.

She was born to fight fires...

When Tori Mitchell said goodbye to the handsome stranger after their heart-stopping dance on her last night of freedom, she never expected him to wind up on the same Midnight Sun elite smokejumper team. Now the two rookies are on the run through the Alaska backcountry, chased by militia men intent on stopping the wildlands firefighters. Forced to rely on each other, Tori has to ignore the sparks between them if they're going to stay alive. Otherwise that spark will turn into a flame neither of them can put out.

He's got something to prove...

Born into a family legacy of firefighting, Orion Price is determined to prove his worth up in Alaska. One explosive evening on the dance floor with Tori threatens the only shot he has to step out of the shadow of his mistakes. He's going to take this shot to show his family—and himself—that he can be the man they believe he is. Orion won't risk his heart, even if survival in an isolated community means faking a relationship with Tori.

Brace yourself for a high-octane, heart-pounding, inspirational thrill ride filled with real-life heroism, searing romantic suspense, and the restorative power of unrelenting grace.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Full of action, suspense, and rising danger, Burning Escape was impossible to put down. I loved it!

Orion and Tori are both rookie smokejumpers, and both of them have a lot to prove. They’ve put a lot of pressure on themselves, both for different reasons. Despite their sweet first meeting and amazing chemistry, there was a lot preventing them from being together. Separated from the rest of their team and with the militia hot on their heels, they have to work together to make it back to camp.

I loved seeing Orion’s strong faith. While Tori wasn’t a believer, I enjoyed watching her journey of discovering it.

This is my favorite installment of the series yet! I’m so excited for the next one! If you're a fan of exciting, faith-filled romantic suspense, I highly recommend it! I’d definitely recommend reading this series in order, though.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

4.5 STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Echoes of Darkness by Darlene L. Turner

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Echoes of Darkness by Darlene L. Turner. This is one of the best thrillers that I've read! I loved it! Release day is June 24. I should have my review up then.

About the Book

A serial killer stalks a small town, and a police officer must face her family’s dark past to catch him.

The sleepy community of Kenorapeake Falls in northern Ontario seems like somewhere Constable Oaklynn Brock can finally outrun her violent past. That is, until she’s assigned to investigate a series of suspicious deaths. She can’t reveal that she knows how serial killers think because she grew up with one. Yet the eerie similarities between these murders and those committed by her father, known as the Suicide Slayer, hint at a copycat in their midst. But why here and why now?

Caleb Greene of the Canadian Watchers Squad, a special task force, has his own reasons to be wary of working alongside Oaklynn. But with rumors of a local cult known as the Light Paragons gaining power, the stakes are too high to refuse.

As they explore connections between the killings and cult, Oaklynn and Caleb are forced to confront old secrets…and a terrifying new threat. Someone is watching Oaklynn’s every move. They know exactly who she is and what she might be capable of. And soon her biggest fear isn’t just having her past exposed, but that a killer will turn whatever days she has left into a living nightmare…

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Suicide Slayer Dead. Constable Oaklynn Brock's coffee mug slipped from her fingers and smashed to the floor as she read the newspaper article on her cell phone.

Friday 56

Oaklynn's temples throbbed as she entered Faith Chapel and approached the body with Caleb at her heels. He arrived moments after her. Anxiety tightened her muscles at who they'd find.

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Collector of Burned Books by Roseanna M. White

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Collector of Burned Books by Roseanna M. White releasing July 15. 

About the Book

In this gripping World War II historical about the power of words, two people form an unlikely friendship amid the Nazi occupation in Paris and fight to preserve the truth that enemies of freedom long to destroy.

Paris, 1940. Ever since the Nazi Party began burning books, German writers exiled for their opinions or heritage have been taking up residence in Paris. There they opened a library meant to celebrate the freedom of ideas and gathered every book on the banned list . . . and even incognito versions of the forbidden books that were smuggled back into Germany.

For the last six years, Corinne Bastien has been reading those books and making that library a second home. But when the German army takes possession of Paris, she loses access to the library and all the secrets she’d hidden there. Secrets the Allies will need if they have any hope of liberating the city she calls home.

Christian Bauer may be German, but he never wanted anything to do with the Nazi Party—he is a professor, one who’s done his best to protect his family as well as the books that were a threat to Nazi ideals. But when Goebbels sends him to Paris to handle the “relocation” of France’s libraries, he’s forced into an army uniform and given a rank he doesn’t want. In Paris, he tries to protect whoever and whatever he can from the madness of the Party and preserve the ideas that Germans will need again when that madness is over, and maybe find a lost piece of his heart.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Black Dragon (The Nightmare Saga Book 2) by Katie Hanna

About the Book

A desperate gambler. A masked assassin. A dragon who could burn them both alive.

Jack Landry just wanted to be the responsible one for once. When he offered to take George Calhoun’s money to the bank in Denver so George could stay with his pregnant wife, Jack never dreamed his gambling habit would get the better of his good intentions. Now Jack haunts the Denver underworld like a ghost, determined not to go home again without winning back what he lost.

A night of gambling in Chinatown takes an unexpected turn when Jack finds himself the target of a shadowy criminal syndicate. A mysterious assassin in a dragon mask rescues him from their clutches… moments before the real, live dragon in the basement burns the whole place to ashes.

Behind the mask is a woman named Shufen. She carries twin swords and a double-bladed attitude to match. She’s bent on getting revenge on the gang that exploited and killed her sister. When Shufen breaks into their headquarters to save a little girl named Jinjing from her sister’s fate, she isn’t particularly pleased to find a hapless, clueless cowboy tagging along—a man with a price on his head. She’s even less pleased to see a giant scaly monster who should only exist in ancient legends.

With homicidal crime lords and fire-breathing dragons on their tail, the odds of Jack, Shufen, and Jinjing making it safely home to the Calhoun ranch are looking mighty slim…

If you love mythic Chinese beasts and rip-roaring Western adventures, you won’t want to miss Black Dragon.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I loved Water Horse, the first book in this series, so I was really looking forward to this sequel. While it did take me a little bit to get into, I ended up really enjoying it.

I loved catching up with old characters and meeting new ones. Shufen was fierce and strong. I really admired her quest to rescue girls who were in horrible situations. Jack was rough around the edges but extremely likable. They made for a mismatched and often antagonistic team, yet they worked so well together! They made a great team, and I loved watching them fall for each other.

I’m not usually drawn to westerns, but I love this series. The combination of the historical setting and the fantasy elements really works here.

While the whole book was exciting, the second half really ramped up the action and had me flying through the pages.

I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone looking for exciting historical fantasy. I’d recommend reading Water Horse first. Even though this story focuses on two different characters, the stories are very much connected.

Note: While this is a clean romance, there is a fair amount of strong language.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FOUR STARS

If you're interested, check out my review for Water Horse, the first book of this series: https://rusticreadinggal.blogspot.com/2024/03/review-water-horse-nightmare-saga-1-by.html

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Black Dragon (The Nightmare Saga Book 2) by Katie Hanna

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Black Dragon (The Nightmare Saga Book 2) by Katie Hanna. The first book in the series, Water Horse, was one of my favorite books last year, so I've been really looking forward to this sequel. 

About the Book
A desperate gambler. A masked assassin. A dragon who could burn them both alive.

Jack Landry just wanted to be the responsible one for once. When he offered to take George Calhoun’s money to the bank in Denver so George could stay with his pregnant wife, Jack never dreamed his gambling habit would get the better of his good intentions. Now Jack haunts the Denver underworld like a ghost, determined not to go home again without winning back what he lost.

A night of gambling in Chinatown takes an unexpected turn when Jack finds himself the target of a shadowy criminal syndicate. A mysterious assassin in a dragon mask rescues him from their clutches… moments before the real, live dragon in the basement burns the whole place to ashes.

Behind the mask is a woman named Shufen. She carries twin swords and a double-bladed attitude to match. She’s bent on getting revenge on the gang that exploited and killed her sister. When Shufen breaks into their headquarters to save a little girl named Jinjing from her sister’s fate, she isn’t particularly pleased to find a hapless, clueless cowboy tagging along—a man with a price on his head. She’s even less pleased to see a giant scaly monster who should only exist in ancient legends.

With homicidal crime lords and fire-breathing dragons on their tail, the odds of Jack, Shufen, and Jinjing making it safely home to the Calhoun ranch are looking mighty slim…

If you love mythic Chinese beasts and rip-roaring Western adventures, you won’t want to miss Black Dragon.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

"I am your enemy." I whisper as I swipe a speck of dust from my sword's glassy blade.

Friday 56

I can hear the dragon's hiss down there by my boots. Steam leaks between his teeth. Spikes rattle whenever he moves his giant head.

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Spurs and Sparks (Healing Springs Ranch Book 1) by Jody Hedlund

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Spurs and Sparks (Healing Springs Ranch Book 1) by Jody Hedlund releasing July 8.

About the Book

Is the powerful McQuaid legacy of love only a thing of the past? Or can such a love still happen today?

Tyler McQuaid has been too busy managing his family’s luxury ranch resort to think about love. But when his dad gets sick and may not have long to live, Tyler begins to question what is truly important. He’s already failed once at love and marriage, but how can he say no to his dad’s sickbed wish that he try again?

Kinsey Wingrove, a traveling nurse, prefers to keep her relationships short and sweet, and yes, even shallow. With the losses she’s already experienced in life, it’s just easier that way. When she arrives at Healing Springs Ranch, she clashes with her new patient’s son, the handsome cowboy who runs the place and doesn’t think she’s the right nurse for his dad.

As sparks fly between Tyler and Kinsey, the meddling, matchmaking McQuaid family sees that more can exist between the two than they will acknowledge. Can Tyler accept and move beyond the mistakes of his past to allow for the McQuaid legacy of love—a fast, furious, and forever kind of love? Or will he let Kinsey’s fears push him away forever?

• Enemies to more
• Grumpy boss
• Single dad
• Matchmaking family
• Grief from loss
• Hunky cowboys
• Swoony kisses

* The inspirational themes in this book are light, and the romance is the primary focus. While the romance is sizzling and the kisses swoony, both the language and physical attraction are clean and wholesome.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?