REVIEW: All I Want For Christmas by Jenny Hale

Title: All I Want For Christmas
Author: Jenny Hale
Publisher: Bookouture
Publication Date: October, 2016
Genre: Women’s Fiction / Christmas
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN

Description: All I Want for Christmas is a big, cozy Christmas story about the importance of family, the strength of childhood friendships, and learning to trust your heart.

Fans of Carole Matthews, Susan Wiggs and Susan Mallery – and anyone who likes the glow of Christmas lights and the rustle of wrapping paper – will fall in love with this feel-good Christmas treat.

Christmas comes once a year . . . But true love comes once in a lifetime.

Snowflakes are falling, there’s carol singing on every corner, and Leah Evans is preparing for a family Christmas at her grandmother’s majestic plantation house in Virginia. It won’t be the same now that her beloved Nan is gone, but when Leah discovers she has inherited the mansion, she knows she can give her daughter Sadie the childhood of her dreams.

But there’s a catch. Leah must split the house with a man called David Forester. Leah hasn’t heard that name in a long time. Not since they were kids, when Davey was always there to catch her.

Now David is all grown up. He’s gorgeous, successful, and certain of one thing: Leah should sell him her half of the house.

They can’t agree, but as they share memories over wine by the log fire, Leah notices a fluttering in her stomach. And by the look in his eyes, he’s starting to feel it too.

Will it be Leah or David who must give up their dreams? Or, with a little bit of Christmas magic, will they finally understand Nan’s advice to them both about living life without regrets … and take a chance on true love?

My Thoughts: Jenny Hale is quickly becoming my favorite go to author for my Christmas reading fix. She decorates the atmosphere in her stories with all the holiday cheer and whimsy one can expect for the season. The story comes to life with the love and togetherness the holiday brings and is a delight for me as a reader.

Leah has inherited her childhood home from her grandmother and the memories of growing up there are what are driving her to giving her daughter the best childhood she can. Leah doesn’t count on there being a catch to the inheritance. Leah discovers she is co-owner with her childhood friend, David, whom she hasn’t seen in years. As children, they were thick as thieves, but now they are grown up and are on opposite sides of what is to be done about the house they both love.

I liked both Leah and David and empathized with them and the situation they find themselves in. Initially, I couldn’t understand why Leah’s grandmother would name them both beneficiary of the home and when I learned they both had distinctively different plans for the house, thought there would be no way these two former childhood buddies could resolve this conflict. David impressed me right away with his kindness and compassion towards Leah. He makes her a very generous offer that she is torn over taking and the guilt she is sure she will feel if she does. Leah has had to rely on herself to raise her young daughter as the father hightailed it out of there early on, so putting her trust in people isn’t something Leah does easily. Though life has dealt her a rotten hand, I loved that Leah is not bitter or angry at the world. She has a big heart and wants what is right and fair for everyone.

Grandma’s advice to Leah and David is to live life without regrets and they discover Grandma had a few of her own. As they work together to uncover the secrets, they become close and with just the right amount of nutmeg in the eggnog, you have a Christmas miracle that brings together families and friends to embrace the joy of the season. This story made me want to be there, sitting in front of the log fire or in the kitchen that I envisioned big and bright, copper pots hanging over a monstrous island, with the scents of Christmas in the air.

My Final Verdict: A feel good Christmas story of love and friendship to keep the reader toasty warm during the winter chill, I recommend this story any time of the year, eggnog optional.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of All I Want For Christmas from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena

Title: The Couple Next Door
Author: Shari Lepena
Publisher: Pamela Dorman Books
Publication Date: July, 2016
Genre: Thriller / Suspense
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN | Audible

Description: It all started at a dinner party. . .

A domestic suspense debut about a young couple and their apparently friendly neighbors--a twisty, rollercoaster ride of lies, betrayal, and the secrets between husbands and wives…

Anne and Marco Conti seem to have it all--a loving relationship, a wonderful home, and their beautiful baby, Cora. But one night when they are at a dinner party next door, a terrible crime is committed. Suspicion immediately focuses on the parents. But the truth is a much more complicated story.

Inside the curtained house, an unsettling account of what actually happened unfolds. Detective Rasbach knows that the panicked couple is hiding something. Both Anne and Marco soon discover that the other is keeping secrets, secrets they've kept for years.

What follows is the nerve-racking unraveling of a family--a chilling tale of deception, duplicity, and unfaithfulness that will keep you breathless until the final shocking twist.

My Thoughts: With The Couple Next Door, new to me author, Shari Lepena, delivers a suspenseful and intriguing story about a couple who suffer a parent’s worst nightmare when their baby daughter is kidnapped from her crib while they are next door at a dinner party. So many thoughts ran through my head as I read this story. I couldn’t understand what would compel a parent to leave their child alone after their babysitter cancels on them. Why didn’t they cancel and stay home? Why didn’t they take their daughter with them? As the story unravels, more details, lies and shocking deceptions are brought to light.

As a reader, it’s important to me to have a connection with some or all of the characters; feel empathy for their situation; care about them. All I felt for Anne and Marco Conti was contempt. The more I got to know them, the less I liked them. They are mired so deeply in their dysfunction, it’s a miracle they can drag themselves out of bed each day, much less bathe or feed themselves. That would usually be enough for me to give up on the story and chuck the book against the wall. But no, I turned into one of those annoying people who slow down to a snail’s pace in traffic when there’s an auto accident just to gawk and stare. I couldn’t stop reading this story. I had to find out what happens. I desperately needed closure on whether baby Cora is found alive, but I also needed to find out what these twisted and moronic people would do next.

There were moments when I felt sorry for Anne and Marco, but it didn’t last long. Like the Detective assigned to the case, my only concern was getting the baby back in one piece. We find out early on how the kidnapping went down, but the author does a wonderful job of throwing some red herrings into the story to keep us all guessing.

My Final Verdict: Readers who like intense plots with flawed characters that keep you engaged will enjoy this intriguing suspense story.

REVIEW: Swimsuit by James Patterson

Title: Swimsuit
Author: James Patterson
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Publication Date: June, 2009
Genre: Thriller / Mystery
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN | Audible

Description: THE BEACH...
A breathtakingly beautiful supermodel disappears from a swimsuit photo shoot at the most glamorous hotel in Hawaii. Only hours after she goes missing, Kim McDaniels's parents receive a terrifying phone call. Fearing the worst, they board the first flight to Maui and begin the hunt for their daughter.

...WILL NEVER BE...
Ex-cop Ben Hawkins, now a reporter for the L.A. Times, gets the McDaniels assignment. The ineptitude of the local police force defies belief--Ben has to start his own investigation for Kim McDaniels to have a prayer. And for Ben to have the story of his life.

...THE SAME FOR YOU AGAIN.
All the while, the killer sets the stage for his next production. His audience expects the best--and they won't be disappointed. Swimsuit is a heart-pounding story of fear and desire, transporting you to a place where beauty and murder collide and unspeakable horrors are hidden within paradise.

My Thoughts: For the first time, in probably ever, I have to start a review with a warning. This book was extremely graphic and violent and it took me a couple of attempts to get through it. I love this author and have read other titles of his that have been graphic, but this one really got to me. I’m glad it didn’t stop me or I would have missed a really intriguing and interesting story. This book doesn’t pull any punches. It starts right off with the abduction, rape and gruesome murder of a young model. If you can hold your cookies through that bit, then you are made of stronger stuff than I was. Where this story really pulled me in was the way the killer plays an apparent cat and mouse game with everyone, how brazen he is in selecting his victims and ending their lives without regard, be they young models, elderly people or even children.

If that’s all this story was, then I would say, don’t waste your time. You’ve read one serial killer gruesome slice and dice, you’ve read them all. No, this story goes beyond that when the killer forces our hero, Ben, to write his tell-all memoir. Yes, you got that right. Forced…Ben has no choice, if he wants to live. Ben has to find a way to keep ahead of Mr. Psycho and figure out who he is so he can bring him down, all while letting Mr. Psycho believe he’s writing the book. Psycho dude is a master of disguise, so this whack job shows up anywhere and anytime he wants taking Ben completely by surprise. I felt like Ben doesn’t have a clear grasp of who he is dealing with and the danger he is putting himself and his girlfriend in by poking that bear. But, it makes for intense reading moments. What will happen next? How does the killer seem to know Ben’s every move?

My Final Verdict: This was definitely not my favorite by this author. There were a lot of holes in the story and the ending was very weak for me after the rollercoaster ride the book put me through. If you are seeking an intense and graphically violent story and mindless hours of entertainment, lock your doors and give this one a go.

REVIEW: Bah, Humbug! by Heather Horrocks

Title: Bah, Humbug! (Christmas Street #1)
Author: Heather Horrocks
Publisher: Word Garden Press
Publication Date: September, 2011
Genre: Chick-Lit / Christmas-Holiday
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN | Audible

Description: Lexi Anderson is an up-and-coming, Martha Stewart-type TV hostess whose two kids love the Jared Strong adventure novels, which happen to be written by their new neighbor, Kyle Miller.

For the first time in his writing career, Kyle has writer's block - until he sees the snowman on his lawn and realizes this is the perfect place for his villain to hide the weapon. He digs into the snowman to discover two things: the weapon fits into he body just under the head, and the snowman was supposed to be the back drop for Lexi's next show.

From this improbable beginning comes friendship. Can there be more for a woman who is afraid to get close again and a man who has shadows from his childhood?

Families join together and hearts are healed as this couple goes walking in a winter wonderland.

My Thoughts: I enjoyed this charming Christmas story that brings two people together for the holiday. I enjoyed how Lexi and Kyle meet and at first glance, I wondered if they would get along. Destroying your neighbor’s snowman isn’t a good way to begin, but happily, Lexi doesn’t hold a grudge and a friendship begins to blossom. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that her kids absolutely love Kyle and are two of his biggest fans.

Where Lexi is all about Christmas and the spirit of the holiday, Kyle is the complete opposite. No decorations, no cheer, no spirit. He’s on deadline and struggling with writer’s block. Who has time for any of that nonsense? He even puts off his family when they ask him to host a family Christmas gathering. Soon, Kyle finds more reasons to participate in the festivities and by letting go of his anxiety gives him the boost he needs to overcome his writer’s block.

I had a little difficulty accepting how quickly Lexi and Kyle jump from friendship to love and how a little Christmas decorating and hosting a gathering cures Kyle of the grief he has carried his whole life and why he avoided Christmas. But I’m a sucker for a happy ending, so it was all good.

My Final Verdict: Excellent choice for readers who want a little Christmas cheer and whimsy in their reading, but don’t have the time to sit down and read a full-length novel.

REVIEW: Tricky Twenty-Two by Janet Evanovich

Title: Tricky Twenty-Two (Stephanie Plum #22)
Author: Janet Evanovich
Publisher: Bantam
Publication Date: November, 2015
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN | Audible

Description: Something big is brewing in Trenton, N.J., and it could blow at any minute.

Stephanie Plum might not be the world's greatest bounty hunter, but she knows when she's being played. Ken Globovic (aka Gobbles), hailed as the Supreme Exalted Zookeeper of the animal house known as Zeta fraternity, has been arrested for beating up the dean of students at Kiltman College. Gobbles has missed his court date and gone into hiding. People have seen him on campus, but no one will talk. Things just aren't adding up, and Stephanie can't shake the feeling that something funny is going on at the college - and it's not just Zeta fraternity pranks.

As much as people love Gobbles, they hate Doug Linken. When Linken is gunned down in his backyard it's good riddance, and the list of possible murder suspects is long. The only people who care about finding Linken's killer are Trenton cop Joe Morelli, who has been assigned the case, security expert Ranger, who was hired to protect Linken, and Stephanie, who has her eye on a cash prize and hopefully has some tricks up her sleeve.

My Thoughts: I enjoy this series for the most part, though there are times that I find myself rolling my eyes…hard at the antics going on in Trenton. Lula never fails to surprise me and I always enjoy any time Ranger is on the scene. I think the eye-rolling stems more from the sense of the same old song and dance that seems to be going on with Stephanie. No money, no car, no life and still torn between Joe and Ranger. After 22 books, why can’t she keep a dang car in one piece through the whole book? Why do all the bad guys on the East Coast seem determined to force Stephanie into public transit or relying on Old Blue? How come nobody blows up Old Blue? When is Ranger going to get sick of giving Stephanie a loaner, only for it to get blown to smithereens? I shudder at what his vehicle insurance premiums are…yikes! Luckily for Stephanie, Ranger doesn’t seem to mind.

This story has a little bit of a twist with Joe sorta kinda maybe breaking up with Stephanie. Of course, we all know Joe and that isn’t how it actually translates, but still. I thought the moment I had long been awaiting was finally here! Stephanie is free to be with Ranger! Cue the happy-dance music, people! Wait, what? Why isn’t she grabbing Rex and beating feet to Ranger’s door? If I didn’t genuinely like Stephanie, I probably would have been beating my head against the wall and washing my hands of her. This series has characters that the reader can really relate to and like. You care about them so you share in their joys and successes and empathize with them in their setbacks and losses. This author does an amazing job of breathing life into these characters, so it’s easy for the reader to get pulled in on an emotional level. I really want to see Stephanie with Ranger…at least for longer than a chapter or two, but I also know her heart belongs to Joe and will probably always will. I guess I am OK with that. But hey, Joe broke up with her! Yes, it was stupid and he’s an idiot, but HE BROKE UP WITH HER! Girlfriend, what are you waiting for!!! Even your Grandma thinks Ranger is “totally hot.”

My Final Verdict: This story has a lot of interesting moments and I always enjoy the scenes Grandma Masur is in. Lula and Connie also bring a lot of entertainment to the mix and Stephanie is a lucky girl to have them in her corner. This series isn’t your hard-edged nail-biting edge of your seat suspense thrillers, but it’s wonderful for a few hours of fluff reading that can and often do entertain.

REVIEW: Christmas In Transylvania by Sandra Hill

Title: Christmas in Transylvania (Deadly Angels #4.5)
Author: Sandra Hill
Publisher: Avon Impulse
Publication Date: October, 2014
Genre: Paranormal Romance

Description: For the first time ever, the leader of the Viking Vampire Angels, Vikar Sigurdsson, has been talked into celebrating a traditional Christmas! The tree has been decorated, the gifts have been wrapped, and the stockings have been hung. And that's mistletoe, not cobwebs, hanging from the ceiling of the creepy castle full of vangels … really!

The icing on the vampire cookie comes when vangel Karl Mortensen rescues Faith Larson, a battered young waitress, from her abusive boyfriend and hides her in the castle amidst the Christmas chaos. But what Karl thought was a frail young teenager is actually a very tempting woman. And she thinks his fangs are sexy!

But a strange "Christmas visitor" at the castle and demon vampires up to their old tricks could threaten the budding romance between Karl and Faith. It's an impossible match—a human and a vangel—but Christmas is a time for magic.

Karl and Faith don't stand a chance …

My Thoughts: Meh…it had some cute moments. There were some humorous moments, but the book didn’t grab me like I hoped. I’m going to chalk it up to not having read any of the Deadly Angels series and not knowing anything about any of the characters who made an appearance in this story or why they are vampire angels (how is that even possible?). I will say I liked Karl and Faith but I didn’t really buy in to how quickly they fell for each other. Didn’t feel genuine to me. Let’s face it. He rescues her from a bad situation at home with the douchebag boyfriend, so naturally, she feels gratitude and that can evolve into something, but I just wasn’t convinced. They don’t know each other and don’t know anything about each other. I thought Faith’s reaction when she discovers what Karl is was a little downplayed.

My Final Verdict: If you are looking for paranormal Christmas cheer, you might like this. If you are a fan of this author’s Deadly Angel series and already are familiar with all the characters, then I expect this book will deliver what you are looking for.

REVIEW: A Shoe Addict's Christmas by Beth Harbison

Title: A Shoe Addict’s Christmas (Shoe Addict #2.5)
Author: Beth Harbison
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press
Publication Date: October, 2016
Genre: Chick-Lit
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN | Audible

Description: From the author of the beloved bestseller Shoe Addicts Anonymous, comes a heartwarming twist on a classic tale filled with holiday cheer.

Noelle is not a fan of the holidays and to make matters worse, she is at a crossroads in her life when it seems that love and adventure are no longer possible. When she stays late at her job in a department store on a snowy Christmas Eve she accidentally gets locked in after closing. She isn’t too concerned about the prospect of spending the night in the store…until a woman appears out of nowhere and tells Noelle that she’s her guardian angel. Soon Noelle finds herself camped out in the shoe department facing several “ghosts” of Christmases past, present, and future...Will visiting the holidays of yesterday and tomorrow help Noelle see the true spirit of Christmas? And will the love she has longed for all her life be the best surprise gift of all?

My Thoughts: A short and cute story about a girl gets the spirit of Christmas in a most interesting and unusual way. Noelle isn’t a Scrooge type person, but she isn’t a Buddy the Elf either. On Christmas Eve, she works late, oblivious to the time, and ends up getting locked in. The idea of camping out in an upscale department store sounds like an awesome idea until she runs across an elderly woman in the shoe department who claims to be Noelle’s guardian angel. So, we begin a journey into Noelle’s life to see how she has checked out of life by just existing instead of living. With the help of the gorgeous designer shoes, Noelle relives numerous memories of her life and the missed opportunities.

I enjoyed this story and was a little envious of Noelle. Getting stuck in this beautiful department store and being given access to anything she wants sounds like a dream come true, even with her boss showing up at the end of the story practically ordering her to go on vacation to Rome and feel free to take whatever you want from the store. Sign me up! Call me crazy, but if one of my friends offers me an all-expense paid trip to Rome, I am not going to balk at the chance. Noelle isn’t like that. She avoids opportunities or challenges to bring excitement, love, joy, or whatever to her life. It may take an act of God and her guardian angel to give Noelle the push she needs.

My Final Verdict: I recommend this story to readers looking for something short and sweet for their holiday reading pile that will satisfy their craving without adding calories.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of The Shoe Addict’s Christmas from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: A Vampire's Christmas Carol by Cynthia Eden

Title: A Vampire’s Christmas Carol
Author: Cynthia Eden
Publisher: Smashwords
Publication Date: November, 2013
Genre: Paranormal Romance / Christmas-Holiday
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN

Description: This holiday season has bite.

Ben Prescott hates Christmas—he’s a vampire, and to him, there’s certainly nothing jolly about the holiday season. While the humans are running around being merry, he’s hunting in the shadows. Ben plans to spend the holidays his way…by stalking deadly prey.

But fate has other plans for Ben.

Three visitors are coming Ben’s way…A demon who will force Ben to face his past, a ghost who will show Ben the present he could have, and a shifter who will reveal the darkness that waits in Ben’s future. Unless Ben can change his ways, he may just turn into a real monster, one who can’t be saved by anyone or anything.

’Tis the season…to be undead.

Ben’s redemption rests in the hands of the one woman he loved and lost—Simone Laurent. If Ben is going to have a chance at being more than just the beast in the darkness, he has to prove himself to the lovely Simone. A very hard task, considering that, once upon a Christmas Eve, Simone died in Ben’s arms…
_________________

Warning: This book features one very tortured vampire, a sexy ghost from his past, and hot scenes designed to melt the winter snow. Plenty of action, adult situations, and steamy times are ahead. Happy holidays!

My Thoughts: This book was my first holiday read for 2018. It’s super short, which can be a good thing or bad thing. Good because a finished book is great and if I can read it faster, then yay! Bad because it’s short and sometimes a reader just needs more, you know, especially when there are vampires, which is one of my weaknesses.

Meet Ben Prescott, vampire and hater of Christmas. What’s there to love when you are undead, not by choice, and the woman of your dreams is dead-dead? No hanging of stockings or sipping of the Christmas cheer for our Ben. Instead, he is out hunting human prey. The evil human variety are his choice of prey and ridding the world of evil people should be a good thing, but unfortunately for Ben, he is on a path of self-destruction which will turn him into a monster incapable of knowing or doing the right thing.

Ben is given the opportunity to choose a different path when he is visited by three paranormal beings that are on a mission to show Ben the light by showing him what awaits him if he stays on his present course.

I love tortured characters and vampires are my favorite. They hold all the trump cards when it comes to self-loathing, pain, misery and torturing themselves. I also love stories about redemption and when a tortured character finds redemption, it is so satisfying.

Ben is a great character. His mortality was taken from him against his will and he lost not only his life, but the love of his life. Can we say he’s a little bitter? Yes, we can. Who wouldn’t be? He shuts himself away from everyone and everything and focuses on hunting people who deserve to be hunted. This lifestyle has accomplished what he intended but now Ben needs a new path before he becomes the evil that he has been hunting.

Ben and Simone’s chemistry is white-hot and I felt so bad for these two that they have had to suffer so much heartbreak and anguish not of their choosing. I really wanted more time with Ben and Simone to learn about their beginning and stick around for the after to see how they grow and build their lives together.

I recommend this book to fans of paranormal romances and fans who enjoy Christmas themes and are looking for something a little different to add to their holiday cheer reading list. Christmas is the season for love and joy and nobody deserves love and joy more than Ben and Simone.

REVIEW: Don't Mention The Rock Star by Bree Darcy

Title: Don’t Mention the Rock Star
Author: Bree Darcy
Publisher: Bree Darcy
Publication Date: January, 2015
Genre: Chick-Lit
Buy the Book: Amazon

Description: They fell in love in an instant … so why have they spent a lifetime apart?

As a teenager Kellie dated an American boy but circumstances meant they went their separate ways. Now he’s back and she’s so tempted to see him again. But two decades have passed and they are both married with children.

And the last thing a celebrity reporter like her needs is the world finding out about her past relationship with a rock star. Especially as Kellie’s husband doesn’t even know she once dated AJ Dangerfield, lead singer of legendary band Danger Game. And she has no intention of him finding out. EVER.

As Kellie deals with a demanding boss, a bullied son, an infuriating mother-in-law and a best friend who won’t act her age, she finds herself playing a dangerous game. What will happen if her two worlds collide? And is it possible that first love never fades?

My Thoughts: Enjoyable story about first love and the path life leads us on based on our choices and decisions. I really liked Kellie and AJ together. They mesh so well and I enjoyed watching them mature as individuals and as a couple. Kellie is by AJ’s side and as his popularity and fame grow, they are pulled apart when AJ makes a choice that drives Kellie away. This book is told both in the past and present as the reader is given a birds-eye view into their lives as they grow from teenagers to adults with careers, marriages and children.

I felt a lot of empathy for Kellie as she struggles with her feelings for AJ and keeping that time of her life private from her present life. I admired Kellie for maintaining composure when her personal life and career as a celebrity reporter collide. She does a wonderful job keeping them separate. I liked the man AJ became and how he befriended Kellie’s son, who struggles with being bullied and having a domineering and critical father.

My Final Verdict: For a debut novel, the author does a fantastic job creating a story that flows smoothly from the past to the present and back to the past again. The dialogue is clear and realistic for the time period as well as the ages and personalities of the characters. The characters are easy to relate to and though I wasn’t cheering for all of them to get a happy ever after, I liked that some of them were redeemable in the end and earned some respect from me. I recommend this book to readers who like complex characters who don’t allow their emotional baggage from the past derail their journey in the present.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Don’t Mention the Rock Star from the author in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: A Dog's Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron

Title: A Dog’s Purpose (A Dog’s Purpose #1)
Author: W. Bruce Cameron
Publisher: Forge Books
Publication Date: July, 2010
Genre: General Fiction
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN | Audible

Description: This is the remarkable story of one endearing dog's search for his purpose over the course of several lives. More than just another charming dog story, this touches on the universal quest for an answer to life's most basic question: Why are we here?

Surprised to find himself reborn as a rambunctious golden haired puppy after a tragically short life as a stray mutt, Bailey's search for his new life's meaning leads him into the loving arms of 8 year old Ethan. During their countless adventures Bailey joyously discovers how to be a good dog. But this life as a beloved family pet is not the end of Bailey's journey. Reborn as a puppy yet again, Bailey wonders, will he ever find his purpose?

Heartwarming, insightful, and often laugh out loud funny, this book is not only the emotional and hilarious story of a dog's many lives, but also a dog's eye commentary on human relationships and the unbreakable bonds between man and man's best friend. This story teaches us that love never dies, that our true friends are always with us, and that every creature on earth is born with a purpose.

My Thoughts: All Bailey wants is to be a good dog. He knows his purpose is to take care of the people in his pack and be a good dog. I absolutely loved this story of Bailey and all of his numerous lives that bring him full circle back to the life he loved the most. Bailey offers the most meaningful insight to his surroundings and I loved how quickly he adapts each time he is reborn as a puppy, knowing he has a purpose and his determination to discover it. Though Bailey has many names in this story, I will refer to him as Bailey as the heart of the story for me is when he is with Ethan as Bailey.

The characters were well written and I loved the way the story flowed. I could easily relate to the characters and felt a lot of empathy for them. This story is told in the first-dog perspective and hearing Bailey’s opinions and thoughts and reactions to the world around him was thoroughly enjoyable.

My Final Verdict: This was my first time reading this author’s work and this book was a keeper-shelf book for me. I laughed and cried through the story and fell in love with this wonderful dog whose only purpose is to bring joy to those around him. I think he aced it.

REVIEW: Brotherhood In Death by J.D. Robb

Title: Brotherhood In Death (In Death, #42)
Author: J.D. Robb
Publisher: Berkley
Publication Date: February, 2016
Genre: Mystery / Suspense / Urban Fantasy
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN | Audible

Description: Dennis Mira just had two unpleasant surprises. First he learned that his cousin Edward was secretly meeting with a real estate agent about their late grandfather’s magnificent West Village brownstone, despite the promise they both made to keep it in the family. Then, when he went to the house to confront Edward about it, he got a blunt object to the back of the head.

Luckily Dennis is married to Charlotte Mira, the NYPSD’s top profiler and a good friend of Lieutenant Eve Dallas. When the two arrive on the scene, he explains that the last thing he saw was Edward in a chair, bruised and bloody. When he came to, his cousin was gone. With the mess cleaned up and the security disks removed, there’s nothing left behind but a few traces for forensics to analyze.

As a former lawyer, judge, and senator, Edward Mira mingled with the elite and crossed paths with criminals, making enemies on a regular basis. Like so many politicians, he also made some very close friends behind closed—and locked—doors. But a badge and a billionaire husband can get you into places others can’t go, and Eve intends to shine some light on the dirty deals and dark motives behind the disappearance of a powerful man, the family discord over a multimillion-dollar piece of real estate . . . and a new case that no one saw coming.

My Thoughts: Oh Em Gee! Just when you think this series has pulled out all the surprises and maybe it’s time to give Eve and the Scooby Gang a break for a change, the powers of brilliance in the great imagination of the talented J.D. Robb says “Oh no, you ain’t seen nothing yet!” Insert evil mwah ha ha ha here…

I thought with a story featuring the wonderful Dennis Mira as the central character would be a slow paced story, like Dennis is a comfort to Eve, with fuzzy sweaters, scents of pipe tobacco and hot chocolate. I thought (smacking forehead here) that this would be a soft shuffle of a story, as Lord knows Eve and the gang work awful hard and could use a bit of a rest. This story peels back layer upon layer that opens a depraved and twisted world to Eve filled with people who have gotten away with horrific acts…until now. I’m shocked Eve and her gang haven’t been committed to an asylum yet or undergoing intense therapy by now. One of the things I love about the characters in this series is their uncanny ability to do the job and do it well while maintaining their perspective of the world around them and keeping it real with a great balance of humor and sarcasm.

This story is definitely not black and white when coming to the identity of the villain. I had a lot of empathy for the characters who found themselves cast in this role, but like Eve, felt that justice still needed to be served. Eve often finds herself in the position of having to make some very hard decisions, but I admire her strength of character and integrity and how hard she works to keep it separate from her personal feelings.

My only negative issue with this story was no Mavis, Leonardo or Bella. Hopefully, they will make an appearance in the next book to add a little color to the mix.

My Final Verdict: I highly recommend this book. It’s keeper-shelf material for me, as are most of the books in this series. I always look forward to what Eve gets into next and watching her grow as a character in a variety of situations is highly entertaining.

REVIEW: If You're Not The One by Jemma Forte

Title: If You’re Not The One
Author: Jemma Forte
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
Publication Date: June, 2015
Genre: Chick-Lit
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN

Description: What if you could do it all over again?

Jennifer Wright is pretty sure her husband doesn't love her anymore. She and Max used to be the perfect couple, but the pressures of work and kids have pulled them in opposite directions. Now, Jen is full of "what if" questions about whether her bland, suburban existence is all she was ever destined for.

When a terrible accident sends Jen into a coma, she is able to see what her life could have been if she had run off to Australia with the handsome, dangerous man she met on vacation, or if she had stayed with her workaholic college boyfriend. Would she ever have loved another child as much as she loves her daughters? Could she have become rich? More than anything, Jen wants to do the right thing for her family. But what she discovers may leave her with even more questions about the choices she made, and no easy answers about what to do next.

My Thoughts: With If You’re Not The One, new to me author, Jemma Forte, opens the door on the “what if” that we all have wondered in our lives. What if I had met him sooner? What if I had taken the bus that day? What if, what if, what if…

Our protagonist is a normal wife and mother of two young children facing this complex question after she is a bad accident and lying comatose in the hospital. She is able to revisit her past relationships to see what would have happened if she had chosen one of them instead of her husband, Max. And before you guess that she would have always chosen Max, give this book a look. I was actually hoping for a different outcome, but was so mesmerized with the way the story unfolded that I had to keep turning the page to find out what would happen next. Getting a bird’s-eye view into Jennifer’s life makes me appreciate that everything does happen for a reason, even if we are not cognizant of the reason. Sometimes not knowing is for the best. But for just a fleeting, brief moment, how exciting it would be to know what would have happened if….

I enjoyed how the plot flowed between the present and Jennifer’s past memories. She is aware of what is happening and knows the choice is up to her. She just has to choose to walk through that door. The storyline was easy to follow and kept me engaged throughout the entire story. The characters were easy to relate to and I felt a lot of empathy toward Jennifer. Her frustration is realistic, as well as her anger and fear. I admired the courage and strength she demonstrates to face the challenges in front of her.

My Final Verdict: I highly recommend this story not only because it’s really good, but also because it is a story we all have gone through and can relate to. Jennifer’s journey shouldn’t be a new experience for any of us and it’s a good reminder to embrace our lives with joy and live our choices to the fullest extent of our capabilities.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of If You’re Not The One from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: The Competition by Marcia Clark

Title: The Competition (Rachel Knight #4)
Author: Marcia Clark
Publisher: Mulholland Books
Publication Date: July, 2014
Genre: Mystery / Thriller / Suspense
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN | Audible

Description: In Marcia Clark's most electrifying thriller yet, Los Angeles DA Rachel Knight investigates a diabolical high school massacre.

A Columbine-style massacre at a high school in the San Fernando Valley has left a community shaken to its core. Two students are identified as the killers. Both are dead, believed to have committed a mutual suicide. But in the aftermath of the shooting, as LA Special Trials prosecutor Rachel Knight and Detective Bailey Keller dig deeper, they realize that the pieces don't add up. Could it be that the two "killers" were themselves victims? And if so, does that mean that the real killers are still on the loose? When someone starts dropping clues that another horrific crime is in the works, Rachel and Bailey scramble desperately to profile their suspect and prevent another killing--before it's too late.

My Thoughts: The fourth book of this very good series left me with a lot of questions…such as “will there be more in this series?” I enjoyed this intense and suspenseful story that brings Rachel and Bailey face to face with a killer, psychotic and diabolical while appearing innocent. The setting of a mass murder at a high school leaves charged emotions and intense fear for all of the characters in this story. I especially enjoyed how methodic Rachel and Bailey are in hunting down and following up on the clues amidst all of the chaos and confusion surrounding them. The clock is ticking and it’s only a matter of time before the killers strike again. How much time is the question, so every minute is precious.

The author does an excellent job of capturing the terror and horror of the situation as well as the emotions of all the characters on both sides of the investigation. The plot flowed smoothly and kept me intrigued all the way to the end. The characters are well written and easy to relate to and empathize with. I truly hope there will be more books in this series in the future as there are a lot of loose ends that haven’t been addressed.

My Final Verdict: I highly recommend this series to readers who enjoy complex storylines and characters with multiple layers that are revealed as the reader gets to know them.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of The Competition from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: Trapped At The Altar by Jane Feather

Title: Trapped At The Altar (Trapped #1)
Author: Jane Feather
Publisher: Pocket Books
Publication Date: July, 2014
Genre: Historical Romance
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN | Audible

Description: New York Times bestselling author Jane Feather introduces a sizzling new series that moves from the remote wilds of southwest England to the turbulent royal court, when a lovely young woman is forced into marriage to unite two families—and discovers a most unexpected desire...

Headstrong Ariadne Daunt is convinced she loves handsome Gabriel Fawcett, but her grandfather has other plans for her. He decrees that she marry Ivor Chalfont, thus forging a powerful alliance between the two warring families who share ownership of their valley. Given no time to plot an escape, Ari finds herself standing reluctantly at the altar, swearing to honor and obey a man who is not her choice.

Ivor has treasured Ari as a friend ever since he was brought to the valley as a child, but now he feels a man's desires. He longs to take the beautiful young woman to his bed and make their marriage more than an empty vow. Ari may believe she loves another man, but Ivor believes otherwise—and he will not rest until he gains her heart, her trust . . . and her passion.

My Thoughts: Ari and Ivor have been friends since they were children but Ari is not happy when she is ordered by her family to marry Ivor to secure her family’s security and standing with the King. Ari believes she is in love with another man and has no qualms about telling Ivor her heart belongs to another. Ivor accepts his responsibility to the family and marries Ari but believes her feelings will change and he will win her heart.

I found this story very interesting in that Ari is not a virginal maiden. She has given her body and heart to another man; a man she is not married to. Very taboo in this historical setting, as marriages are contracts and the bride’s purity is an important part of the arrangement. I found it interesting that Ivor goes through with the marriage despite knowing Ari has given herself to another and he keeps that secret between them. I really admired that as this story could have had a completely different outcome.

The only real problem I had with this story is with Ari. She is self-centered and selfish in the beginning. She appears to be a little fickle in how quickly she gets over Gabriel and realizes she loves Ivor. I enjoyed watching her squirm a little bit when Gabriel appears in London and she is filled with anxiety how she will address the situation. It is resolved not how I thought it would, but, again, Ivor deserves the credit for doing the right thing. I liked Ari, but she needed to do a lot of growing up and with Ivor, she is well on her way.

My Final Verdict: Though Ari starts off as very immature and headstrong, she develops into a proper noblewoman doing what her family expects of her. I thought Ivor was an excellent character and I liked that he accepts the challenge of marriage to Ari and winning her love and doesn’t look back. Fans of historical romances will enjoy the backdrop of the court of King Charles II.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Trapped At The Altar from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: The Beginner's Guide To The Birds And The Bees by Sophie Hart

Title: The Beginners Guide to the Birds and the Bees
Author: Sophie Hart
Publisher: Bookouture
Publication Date: September, 2014
Genre: Chick-Lit
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN

Description: What happens in the bedroom doesn’t have to stay in the bedroom…

A refreshingly open and uplifting romantic comedy about friendship, love and sex. Sometimes you need to step out of your comfort zone in order to give a relationship a good dose of TLC…

Sex therapist Annie Hall helps couples put the fizz back into their relationships. It’s a shame her own love life is non-existent. When Jamie who works next door catches her eye, she can’t ignore the spark of chemistry.

Most men would jump at the chance to skive off work for an afternoon quickie with their gorgeous wife, but Nick knows Julia is after only one thing – a baby. Sex shouldn’t be a chore. Can Annie help Julia see that?

Newly engaged Zoe and Simon can’t keep their hands off each other. They’ve decided to take a vow of celibacy until their wedding night. Will Annie help them stick to it?

Roy and Linda have been married for over thirty years but she’s more interested in the family business than getting intimate with him. Can Annie convince Linda to rediscover her passion for Roy after all this time?

While Annie begins to work her magic with the three couples, she soon discovers that she’ll need to take some of her own advice if she’s going to let a new man into her life.

My Thoughts: Loved, loved, loved this story! New to me author Sophie Hart pens a story of the ups and downs of love for three very different couples who all seek the advice of a sex therapist for very different and interesting reasons. The best thing about this story is the sex therapist, Annie Hall. She isn’t there to help them get better in the sack, she actually helps them rebuild the emotional intimacy that makes relationships grow and thrive. On a side-note, Annie’s love life is a zero, though she puts on a brave face and goes out on the occasional date. True love has not found Annie and she has nearly convinced herself that it’s for the best. I loved the chemistry between her and Jamie and you will too.

The couples that Annie takes on as clients are vibrant and come alive on the page. The reader will get an excellent sense of the emotions all six of these people feel; feelings about their relationships, their partners and even themselves. I had a lot of compassion and empathy for them and was rooting for all of them to be successful. The exercises Annie puts them through as couples and as a group were a lot of fun to witness. The author takes this story further by delving deeper into the characters on a personal level, so the reader gets to know them better as individuals as they all get to know each other and form friendships. The story moves at a very good pace. I wanted to savor it but I just couldn’t wait to see what would happen next.

My Final Verdict: The Beginner’s Guide to the Birds and the Bees by Sophie Hart is a must-read for fans of the romance genre, but fans who seek more comedy than romance in their reading will enjoy this as well. This was a keeper-shelf book for me and I think it will be for you too.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of The Beginners Guide to the Birds and the Bees from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: Wonderment In Death by J.D. Robb

Title: Wonderment In Death (In Death #41.5)
Author: J.D. Robb
Publisher: Jove
Publication Date: September, 2015
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN | Audible

Description: Someone is hosting dangerous tea parties in 2061 New York...

Thing aren't what they seem when Lieutenant Eve Dallas investigates what appears to be a routine murder/suicide. When friends of Darlene and Marcus Fitzwilliams insist Darlene would never hurt her brother, Eve digs deeper.

Eve learns that Darlene sought help from sensitivities, psychics, and doctors of paranormal studies in an attempt to contact her dead parents. After clues mimicking Alice in Wonderland repeatedly turns up, the case gets curiouser and curiouser...

Racing against the clock, Eve must travel down the rabbit hole to stop a madman's murderous tea party.

My Thoughts: To be honest, I only read the Eve Dallas story, though it’s part of an anthology featuring stories with variations of an Alice in Wonderland theme. Wonderment In Death brings Eve and the Scooby gang together to investigate an apparent murder/suicide committed by Darlene Fitzwilliams when she stabs her brother in the heart and then throws herself off his balcony. As the investigation progresses, Eve discovers that Darlene has been seeking the services of a medium who promises her contact with her dead parents...for a bunch of money in cash withdrawals. Eve’s spidey sense goes into high gear as she meticulously narrows her search to find the culprit.

My Final Verdict: I loved the story and enjoyed the Alice in Wonderland theme. The villain’s identity wasn’t a deep mystery, but the enjoyment was more with the way the author creates the world in which Eve lives. The mini novellas satisfy the craving the reader has for more interaction with Eve and the gang while waiting for the next full-length novel. Unlike other novellas that are part of a series, these stay true to the previous storylines and character development and flow seamlessly towards the next story.

My craving wasn’t satisfied after finishing Wonderment, so I had to immediately start the next story in the series. That is the downside to the novella…less everything, but it is easily remedied by jumping into the next story. In fact, I highly recommend doing just that…you know, just to make sure you get your fill of Eve and the gang. This is such an enjoyable series and I get such enjoyment from seeing these characters develop and grow and live. They feel like friends and family as time goes on and what more could a reader ask for?

REVIEW: Party Girl by Rachel Hollis

Title: Party Girl
Author: Rachel Hollis
Publisher: Chic Publishing
Publication Date: February, 2014
Genre: Chick-Lit
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN | Audible

Description: Landon Brinkley is making her dreams come true. After years of poring over glossy photos of celebrity parties in People and US Weekly, she’s landed her Holy Grail: an internship with the fabulous Selah Smith, event planner to the Hollywood elite.

Moving from small town Texas to Los Angeles, Landon finds herself in a world in which spending a million dollars on an event – even for kids’ birthdays – is de rigueur. The thrill of working on A-list parties and celeb weddings is enough to get her through the 75-hour workweeks, the nightmare of a multi-day film festival, and abuse at the hands of a mercurial boss. LA is full of opportunity for fame, fortune and even love. But confronted with the seamy realities of the business, she is forced to make a choice: do whatever it takes to get ahead, or stay true to herself.

A roman a clef in the vein of The Devil Wears Prada, PARTY GIRL draws on the author’s real life experience for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the celebrity-obsessed world of event planning. From the party habits of America’s favorite underage singer to the worst Bridezilla of all (the kind that graces the cover of your favorite magazine), PARTY GIRL reveals the ugly side of Hollywood’s prettiest parties.

My Thoughts: First time reading this author’s work and I really enjoyed her voice and writing style. I immediately felt a connection to Landon and empathized with her as she realized that her dream job was turning into a complete nightmare. From day one, Landon is treated with disdain, sarcasm and outright dislike by those around her. I admired her tenacity and courage to stick it out and show the haters she is made of stronger stuff. I also liked the supporting characters. Happily, Max and Jin get their own stories so I am excited to see what happens with them down the road.

An excellent sign of talent is when an author creates characters that draw a huge emotional response from the reader. I had such a reaction with Selah Smith. Everything about this character made me want to gouge out her eyes, pull her hair and then slap her into next Tuesday. She is truly despicable and pathetic. She treats her employees abominably and the level of schmooze she displays to her clients was nauseating. There are a few moments in this story that I was worried that Landon would not be able to hold her own against Selah. I loved that Landon is a fighter and isn’t willing to compromise her principles and values to play the game.

My Final Verdict: What The Devil Wears Prada does for publishing and fashion, Party Girl does for party and event planning. It looks really glittery and glamorous on the outside, but the inside can surprise you with the level of brutality and hostility that goes on behind the scenes. Readers of books that enjoy an interesting backdrop in their story that breathes so much life into the book, it’s almost like it’s a character, will enjoy Party Girl.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Party Girl from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: What Might Have Been by Matt Dunn

Title: What Might Have Been
Author: Matt Dunn
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Publication Date: August, 2014
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN.com | Audible

Description: A year ago, Evan and Sarah shared one incredible night. Then Evan's music—the thing that brought them together—suddenly tore them apart.

Since then, Evan's not been able to forget about her. And try as she might, Sarah can't seem to get over him either.

With time running out, Evan's got one last chance to convince her that the two of them were meant to be. But is one night enough for Sarah to make a decision about the rest of her life— even if it was the best night of her life? And if she doesn't believe in love at first sight, how can Evan persuade her that what they had will last?

My Thoughts: Good story about two people coming together by chance and finding their way back together by fate. When Evan and Sarah first meet, they feel an immediate connection and attraction. Sarah has a lot of insecurity about relationships because of her past so when she finds out about a once in a lifetime opportunity for Evan and his musical career, she pushes him to take the opportunity which splits them apart.

Fast forward one year later and Evan is back with just days left before Sarah marries another man. He is convinced she is the one for him, but he doesn’t have much time to convince her of the same. Most of this story seems to be Evan following Sarah around like a lost puppy trying to talk to her and Sarah being upset that he’s there.

I felt more empathy for Evan than I did for Sarah. I thought she was running away from her feelings and hiding from the past. In her determination to protect herself from being hurt, she was actually putting herself into situations that would cause her the most pain. I also didn’t like that she seemed angry at Evan for leaving, though she was the one who pushed him to go. After certain events are revealed, it made sense why she was so angry but I couldn’t understand why she blamed Evan. Sometimes things happen without rhyme or reason and we just have to muddle through them and make the best of the situation.

My Final Verdict: Though the story was enjoyable, I just didn’t feel as connected to Sarah as I wanted to and was frustrated often with her behavior. I thought Evan was well written and very likable. Sarah’s roommate, Grace, was also a character I liked. Fans of women’s fiction will find the story entertaining. I like the author’s writing style and voice and am curious about his other works.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of What Might Have Been from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: Bad Bridesmaid by Portia MacIntosh

Title: Bad Bridesmaid
Author: Portia MacIntosh
Publisher: Carina (Harlequin UK)
Publication Date: August, 2014
Genre: Chick-Lit
Buy The Book: Amazon | BN.com

Description: “My wedding is ruined and my marriage is going to fail. And it’s all your fault!”

LA rom-com writer Mia Valentina has it all; money, success, a tanned and toned body, golden blonde hair and a string of sexy lovers. She’s almost forgotten her previous self: plain old Mia Harrison. Until a wedding invitation arrives requesting (demanding!) her presence as chief bridesmaid at her younger sister Belle’s upcoming nuptials.

Mia’s barely been back in England before she’s accidentally injured the groom, unintentionally ‘cursed’ the wedding and been caught in a compromising position with her sister’s soon to be brother-in-law!

With the wedding of the year going dangerously off the rails, Mia has no time to waste – especially with sexy fireman and best man Leo on hand to help… Will she use all of her expert romance knowledge to save the day or will she just walk away? No one ever said a bad girl had to turn good…

My Thoughts: With Bad Bridesmaid, new to me author Portia MacIntosh introduces a character that inspires such dislike and contempt from her family, I couldn’t help but empathize with her. I asked myself several times why she didn’t tell the entire lot to bugger off and go back to the States. Everyone from her sister, to her mother, to her Aunt seems less than pleased with Mia’s presence. It’s a complete mystery why they wanted her at the wedding in the first place!

Mia is a woman who has pulled herself out of her own rut of obesity and obscurity. The ugly duckling who transformed into the swan. She now has a successful business writing rom-com films, though she, herself, is very cynical about love and romance.

Now, that being said, she is not completely blameless in some of the shenanigans that occur. She even orchestrates a few of them, but she lives her life without malice or deliberate intent to hurt anyone, so I found myself quick to forgive her and laugh out loud at some of the antics she gets herself into.

My Final Verdict: All in all, this was a really good story about family, second chances, forgiveness and fun. The story flowed at a good pace. I felt the characters were easy to relate to, though I didn’t care for all of them, they were well-written. I hope to read more from this author as she has a wonderful sense of humor that translates well in her stories.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Bad Bridesmaid from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: The Christmas Cake Cafe by Sue Watson

Title: The Christmas Cake Cafe
Author: Sue Watson
Publisher: Bookouture
Publication Date: October, 2016
Genre: Chick-Lit
Buy The Book: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Description: Heart-warming and hilarious, a story that will make you laugh, cry and bring a smile to your face. Get ready for another deliciously amazing Christmas treat from Sue Watson….

As the Prosecco chills and Bing Crosby croons, Jen Barker just knows that her long-term boyfriend is about to propose. But instead of a diamond ring nestled in her champagne flute, Jen finds cold flat rejection. Her once perfect life and dreams of a husband and family seem even further from reach.

A working holiday to the Swiss Alps with her younger sister Jody might not be the Christmas Jen had it mind, but it offers her the chance to recharge her batteries and recover from heartbreak.

When Jen meets handsome ski instructor Jon Zutter her hopes for a happy-ever-after seem within her grasp again. Jon is kind and gorgeous and as they bond over Sachetorte at the picturesque Cake Café, Jen thinks he might just be her perfect man. But a relationship with him comes with a catch – and there are some things even cake can’t fix.

As the snow falls and Christmas approaches, could this be the place that restores Jen Barker’s faith in love?

My Thoughts: I really enjoy this author’s voice, especially the Christmas-themed stories. Sue Watson has a wonderful way of capturing the spirit of the holiday season within the pages of her books so vividly, as a reader, I feel transported into the story. I can almost feel the icy sting on my cheeks of the swirling snow, the melting chocolate on my tongue and the scent of apples and cinnamon baking in a cozy bakery. I want to live in Sue Watson’s books.

The Christmas Cake Café introduces us to Jen Barker, a middle-aged woman who has spent too much time and energy on her loser boyfriend who breaks her heart just when she thought he would propose. Thank God for Jen’s sister, Jody, who practically forces Jen to come to the Swiss Alps with her and some friends for a once-in-a-lifetime Christmas working holiday. Here in the perfect Christmas backdrop, Jen can find herself again and begin to dream of a happily-ever-after.

Jen meets Jon, a local ski instructor, who seems to show up during some of Jen’s less than appealing moments, especially when forced to wear clothing she had to borrow because her own luggage has gone MIA. I liked Jon, though. He is kind, sweet and attentive and manages to keep his surprise and bewilderment about Jen to himself. I especially liked that he has his own relationship baggage of his own to carry but doesn’t let it derail him from his own path.

Likable characters and a smooth flowing storyline are essential to me as a reader. The characters are easy to relate to and bond with. I really liked them all and cared about what happens to them. The story flows from moment to moment in a leisurely and smooth pattern. It was very easy to lose myself in the story and forget where I was.

My Final Verdict: I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the scenery and highly recommend it for anyone looking to add some Christmas cheer to their reading pile.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of The Christmas Cake Café from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.