- Surrender to the Moonlight by Dria Andersen| Book One of the Georgia Arcana Series| A Book Review
Contains: magic, shifters, sorcerer, undead
Genre: Supernatural Romance
Nicole Oliver hasn’t been home since she was a child because of her mother’s attempt to avoid the family curse. But now she’s back to solve the mysterious murder of her grandmother and to stop running from the curse. Yet the curse lingers in the back of her mind as she falls in love with the town’s dangerous Alpha. Jeremiah Taylor, also known as JT, has no problem dancing with danger; it’s part of his job. But is he willing to risk his life by falling in love with the woman that walked into his bar and made his wolf howl?
“Don’t use that excuse to push me away!”
What Makes Surrender to the Moonlight by Dria Andersen A Good Read
- Family-Ties
I love the family relationships in the book from both the main characters’ families. While Nicole’s family is messy, I think the author creates a great family dynamic.
2. The Relationship
JT and Nicole are the perfect match for each other. I adore their energy and their understanding of one another, especially when one is acting out based on fear. And the chemistry between them is spicy-hot from beginning to end.
3. The Curse
One thing that I absolutely love about this book is the family curse. Well, I don’t like the curse itself, but I love how the author shows how the curse affects this family throughout each generation and how each generation’s decisions affect the next, both good and bad. I also like the idea that the curse doesn’t affect all members of the family.
4. The Fantasy
The author does an excellent job of blending fantasy into reality by creating a new world and placing that world into a small town that the readers can get to by traveling on I-95. The world in this book is easy to imagine and makes you think you can find it on a Google map.
What I Feel Some Kinda Way About
1. The Pacing
While I love the romance between Nicole and JT and think that their romance is spicy, I feel that their romance is somewhat rushed as they go from being attracted to each other to falling in love.
2. Side Characters
This book has amazing side characters. It hurts that they don’t appear more in the book.
3. The Murder Case
Although it is Nicole’s grandmother’s death that brings Nicole and her cousins to Georgia and is the reason for Nicole and JT’s meeting, I think that the mystery around the murder is a bit lacking and doesn’t keep the reader guessing ‘who did it?’ I find JT’s issue with his gang problem more interesting.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 4/5
Recommendation: 4/5
To check out more books by Dria Andersen, click here.
- The Butcher’s Daughter by Parker J. Cole | A Story of Black Gotham | A Book Review
Genre: Historical Romance | Christian Romance
Period: 1849 (Harriet Tubman escaped to freedom)
Location: The Lower Manhattan area, New York
Elsia Letchmore has been in love with childhood friend Zelpher Knight since they were young. She had spent three long years waiting for his return. Now, she is forced to retrieve the man she loves, who rather chases after his dreams than keeps his promise to her. Zelpher, who is passing as a white man in the 1840s, is determined to follow his dream of being on stage. Yet he is slowly losing himself and the life he wants when Elsia, the only person who could see past his lies and flaws, comes to bring him home.
“Yet, I feel real whenever I am with you. In your presence, I am me.”
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
What Makes The Butcher’s Daughter by Parker J. Cole A Good Read
1. History and Fiction
I love the intertwined of historical events and fiction storytelling. The author does a great job of painting a clear picture of what life could have been like in that time period while adding historical facts and events.
2. Passing
This story brings up the topic of ‘passing’ from different viewpoints. We see how passing could affect a whole family from the people who decide to pass as white, the person who participates in it but doesn’t want to, and the family member who can’t. Also, I like that the author added the fact that some of the family members who are passing are jealous over the success and accomplishment of a darker family that couldn’t nor doesn’t want to pass. It adds more depth to the characters and shows the complexity of passing in that time period.
3. A Fool in Love
While I hate how Elsia’s love for Zelpheri makes her somewhat of a foolish woman, I admire how her love is displayed. It is full of conflict, hope, desire, angst, and passion. All of those emotions force me to root for Elisa’s love despite my thoughts on Zelpher.
4. Guessing
One thing that I like about the author is that she keeps you guessing. When you think you have something figured out, she throws you a curveball.
What I Would Have Liked to See Happen
1. Oh Ciara
I felt Ciara’s point-of-view in the book was distracting. It takes away from the main characters’ story and slows the book down, unlike Zoe’s point-of-view, which adds and ties into the story more.
2. Family Ties
It would have been nice to see more scenes on the relationship between Elsia and her father Apollo after she revealed her only secret, and more of the relationship between Zelpheri and her father after she told the truth, or the development of Zelpheri’s relationship with his sister.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 4.4/5
Recommendation: 4/5
As always, check out my Top Three Things, which contains spoilers, by clicking “here” !!!
To check out more books by Parker J. Cole, click here.
- Robyn & Destiny by Nalo J. Stewart| A Book Review
Genre: Social Commentary/ Suspense with a touch of Romance
Contains: Second Chance, Love Again After Lost
Planning a felony for the first time is never easy, especially when you could lose everyone around you. Yet Robyn and Destiny are determined to commit one or several if it means teaching that person a lesson. However, life becomes complicated as Robyn rekindles her love with her ex-husband and Destiny starts a relationship with a cop.
“Somebody needs to kill that—.”
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
What Makes Robyn and Destiny by Nalo J. Steward A Good Read
- What about your Friends?
I love the friendship between Robyn and Destiny. I love the understanding and support between them. The author does a great job of showing it by the way they argue and reconcile and how well their families intermingle with each other.
2. Iconic Black Women
As a black history buff, I truly enjoyed the historical pioneers that were mentioned in the book. I even learned some new names.
3. Multidimensional Characters
I truly enjoy the different sides of all the characters in the story, from the main characters and their love interests to the villain. Each character and most side characters were humanized and given a relatable personality, even when a character may have committed an act that the reader may not like.
What I Feel Some Kinda Way About
1. Slow Beginnings
The story is slow to get started. While I enjoyed learning more about Robyn’s and Destiny’s lives, I was constantly waiting for the story to get into the thick of it.
2. Up with your Eyes Too Wide Open
This is a personal preference. While I love when books offer a glimpse of today’s social climate in their stories, I felt this book overdid it. Not because it was mentioned throughout the story, for good reasons, but because it covers up the characters’ personalities. The author created prominent characters that are interesting and multidimensional, yet it kinda fade in the background with all the social justice references added into their personalities in such a major way.
3. Transition
There were a couple of scenes where the transition wasn’t clear and I got lost for a moment.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 4/5
Recommendation: 3/5
If you want to read my Top Three Things of this book, which contains spoilers, click here.
To check out more books by Nalo J. Steward , click here.
- A Groom for Agatha by Parker J. Cole | The Blizzard Brides | A Book Review
Genre: Historical Romance | Christian Romance | Older Woman – Younger Man
Period: 1879 (The year of the “Exodus of 1879“- many blacks fled the south to live in Kansas)
Location: Nebraska
Agatha Waters doesn’t want a new husband, nor she is seeking to get remarry like the other widows in town. The thought of sharing her home and her bed with someone who isn’t her late husband makes her shiver with disgust, or so she thought. Lance Montcalm returns home to find a trouble Agatha – his best friend’s stepmom and the woman he secretly has loved since his youth. He is more than willing to protect her from the dangerous man around her and to grab his only chance of making her his wife. And hopefully, he will win her love in the future.
“I’m not signing anything until you kiss me.”
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
What Makes A Groom for Agatha by Parker J. Cole A Good Read
1. Age Difference
I am a big fan of romance books in which the female character is older than the male character since there are so few of them. In this novella, while their age is a factor, it doesn’t burden the main characters’ relationship. Agatha sees him as a capable and smart man who can protect and provide for her. And Lance, while respectful of Agatha as an older woman, has no issue in seeing her as simply his wife. Thus, allowing us to see how other and more important factors play a role in their relationship.
2. Chemistry
From the first chapter to the last chapter, the chemistry between Agatha and Lance is explosive. Although it is explosive, I love it for the complications that are mixed into it. (Agatha’s dealing with her attraction to Lance while still mourning her late husband’s death and Lance being respectful of that.) This gives the characters’ romance more depth.
3. The External Problem
I love the external problem that brought them together, although I feel for Agatha for having to make a serious choice because of it. This problem alludes to the fact of how difficult it was for women in that time period to stand on their own two feet.
4. Legacy
While this doesn’t contribute to the overall plot of the story, I like that the author shows that one’s legacy doesn’t have to be passed on from generation to generation, especially if the next generation doesn’t want to. But a legacy can also be passed on to others in the same generation or by close friends.
What I would have liked to See Happen
1. Nothing
This is the second book I didn’t have any complaints about. In my opinion, the book was well-written with a great plot and characters that kept me interested. It was wonderful from beginning to end.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 4.8/5
Recommendation: 5/5
As always, check out my Top Three Things, which contains spoilers, by clicking “here” !!!
To check out more books by Parker J. Cole, click here.
- Of Fear and Faith by N. D. Jones| Book One of Death and Destiny Trilogy| A Book Review
Genre: Supernatural/ Paranormal Romance
Contains: Witches, Shifters, Dwarf, etc
When Special Agent Assefa Berber meets Sanura Williams, he knows that he is the familiar to her witch and that he has to protect her and her community from the creature that lurks in the dark and hunts for witches.
Sanura is equally drawn to the were-cat that appears before her. However, fear and scars from the past cause Senura to place a barrier around her and make her unwilling to create the connection that they need. Yet, Sanura must learn to put her faith in Assefa as danger closes in around them, along with the start of a war that occurs every five hundred years.
“Would you like that? To go away together and forget all this madness…?”
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
What Makes Of Fear and Faith by N.D. Jones A Good Read
- The Mystery
One thing that I definitely love about this story is the author’s ability to keep us guessing. She keeps the mystery about the characters and subplots tightly wrapped until she reveals the secret while giving us bits of information here and there. Just when you think you have a character or subplot figured out, she throws you a curveball.
2. The Characters
I’m in love with the characters, especially Mike. What makes the characters unique are their personalities and their baggage that they have to work through. Yet, what really makes the characters shine and come to life is their dynamics with one another and other minor characters in the book. Also, the nonverbal eye contacts add flavor to different situations.
3. The Subplots -the Many Adventures
What sets this story apart from many others is that the story doesn’t end once the first problem or case is solved. The different subplots allow each main character to shine and give us a glimpse of their lives after happily-ever-after. The author does it in a way that doesn’t drag the story out but continues to draw the readers in, making us want to learn more about the main characters and their relationship.
4. From Sizzling to Firey
From the beginning, Sanura’s and Assafe’s attraction to one another was through the roof. As the story progresses, we saw mini fire bombs and amazing fireworks go off.
5. Creature from Diversity Folklore
The author did the research and put in the time and effort to add supernatural creatures from different cultures while giving background information on them. As a history ‘wannabe’ buff, I totally enjoy this.
What I Feel Some Kinda Way About
1. The Last Subplot
While I enjoyed the last subplot and its setup, I felt it is out of place and slightly affects the feel of the book.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 4.2/5
Recommendation: 5/5
If you want to read my Top Three Things of this book, which contains spoilers, click here.
To check out more books by N.D Jones, click here.
- A Groom for Purity by Parker J. Cole | The Blizzard Brides | A Book Review
Genre: Historical Romance | Christian Romance
Period: 1879 (The year of the “Exodus of 1879“- several blacks fled the south to live in Kansas)
Location: On the Trail to Nebraska
Purity “Par” Pennington has no trouble pretending to be a man if she overlooked the reason why she started to pretend to be one in the first place. What she is having trouble with is the vexing passenger riding in her stagecoach, who stirs up her heart. Livingstone ‘Caspar’ Smith isn’t looking to stir anyone’s heart except his future bride, who is waiting for him in Nebraska. Yet, after the stagecoach was robbed, and they were abandoned in the wilderness, he finds his heart being tempted by the man who is helping him survive.
“Help me to be a man like you.”
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
What Makes A Groom for Purity by Parker J. Cole A Good Read
1. A Different Type of Man
The male character isn’t my usual taste or one that is commonly seen in romance books. Yet, it was refreshing to have a character like Casper in the center of this love story. While he has major character flaws, such as not knowing when to stop talking and what to do in their current situation, he has other admirable characteristics, which include admitting when he is wrong, being willing to learn from others, and being a gentleman at all times. The author expands on the type of character that can be the leading male in a romance book. And, I like it!
2. How They Run
Both Par and Casper are running away from something. What I like is how the author shows how the characters deal with their situations and express their pain based on the characters’ personalities. It gives Par and Casper more depth to who they are.
3. Be a Man
(The song from Mulan is currently playing in my head.)The portrayal of Par as a man is perfect. We don’t just see a woman dressed in men’s clothes, who is hiding and trying not to be noticed. We see a woman who is actively living and creating a life for herself as a man. This is seen in her mannerism, language, and rash attitude. And, sis isn’t afraid of throwing hands or pointing a gun at a man!
4. The Best Man?
In the story, the gender roles and expectations are switched. Par is unruly and quick temper while being capable of surviving and providing herself and others in most situations. Casper, on the other, is polished and well-mannered but isn’t strong nor is able to depend on himself in the book’s current situation. Yet, it doesn’t take away from the feminine of Par and the masculine of Casper and allows them to connect with one another.
What I feel Some Kinda Way About
1. The Time Frame
I feel like I always mention this in almost all of my reviews, so I won’t elaborate.
2. Ottie
It seems as if the characters don’t care about her, and she is just an afterthought. Given Casper’s gentlemanly personality and Par’s history, their attitude to her situation was unexpected.
3. Not Long Enough
I really enjoyed reading about Par’s and Casper’s love; however, I felt they were too interesting and their personalities were too large for a short story. They deserve a longer story!
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 3.5/5
Recommendation: 4/5
As always, check out my Top Three Things, which contains spoilers, by clicking “here” !!!
To check out more books by Parker J. Cole, click here.
- Who Would Have Thought? by Britt Joni| A Book Review
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Contains: Enemies to Lovers
The meeting between Jaleesa Spice and Ancient Truth was anything but great. Neither were the meetings that follow. Yet, who would have thought that Jaleesa and Ancient would find comfort and peace in each other arms as they heal old wounds and look towards the future?
“But yes, she challenged me to live, and for that, I am forever grateful.”
What Makes Who Would Have Thought? by Britt Joni A Good Read
- The Characters
The main characters, Jaleesa and Ancient, are realistic characters with their own problems. We get to see how their problems affect their lives and influence the people that they are. In addition, we see them overcome their issues.
2. Black Excellence
I love that the author shows black characters as business owners and entrepreneurs. It warms my heart to read it!
3. Law
I like that the author took the time to do research about the marijuana and CBC laws in North Carolina and incorporated it effortlessly into the story. I see you, sis.
What I would have liked to See Happen
1. Transition
Honestly, the lack of proper transition from one scene to the next messed with the flow of the story and created confusion for me while reading. Also, the timeline of the events in the story was hard to measure. Thus, I found myself constantly rereading scenes.
2. A Balance of Dialogue and Description
While reading, it felt as if I was reading two diaries instead of a story. There wasn’t enough dialogue between the characters in the story to build good pictures of them. While I am able to read the main characters’ thoughts and see their struggles, it is very one-dimensional because I only am able to gather insights from their opinions instead of from the opinions of other characters.
3. The World Around Them
This goes with point number two. Because of the point of view and how the author told the story, I didn’t get to see a good characterization of the supporting characters. I also don’t see an in-depth look at their businesses and their romantic life.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 2.5/5
Recommendation: 2.2/5
Would I try this author again? Yes
*The author had a good plot and characterization; however, it fell short due to the points that I listed above. I think with some editing, this story could be amazing.
If you want to read my personal rant about a subject matter that was found in this book, click here.
To check out more books by Britt Joni, click here.
- The Alpha’s Affair by Dria Andersen| Book Two of The Hamilton Brothers| A Book Review
Genre: Supernatural/ Paranormal Romance
Contains: Witches and Shifters
The affair between Mercedes and her boss, Brent Hamilton, started off as a secret but can it stay that way?
Mercedes has caught the attention of her boss as well as his bear. While she knows that their attraction for each other may not be good – her boss being an alpha shifter, she doesn’t mind having a little fun until a good thing comes to an end. However, Brent doesn’t see his affair with Mercedes ending soon. In fact, he and his bear want something more permanent with Mercedes, regardless if she is a witch or not.
“All I could think about all night was you.”
What Makes The Alpha’s Affair by Dria Andersen A Good Read
- The Affair
The affair between Mercedes and Brent is everything that you would want in a good romance. Their romance is passionate, quick, and comforting without unnecessary drama. It’s also entertaining to read as they ‘try’ to keep it a secret.
2. The Characters
I am in love with the characters in this novella. From the main characters, Mercedes and Brent, to Mercedes’s grandma and friends and Brent’s family. Each character is unique and helps show different sides of the main characters. It is also nice to see Brent’s family again from The Friend Contract. The author does a great job of carrying over their personalities and characteristics from the first Hamilton Brother book to the second.
3. Magic in a Modern Day World
I think that the author does a great job of integrating shifters and witches into a modern world without making it the main focus of the book. Yes, they have powers, and yes, that affects their lives and relationship. However, they have a sense of normalcy and security. They are not fighting with humans nor are they in hiding. They are just living their lives with some magic into it.
4. Assertive but not Aggressive
One thing that I definitely like is Brent making sure that Mercedes is comfortable throughout the relationship. He’s her boss and he is respectful of how that can make her feel. He doesn’t pressure her to go out with him but he makes his intentions clear that he wants her.
5. Awareness
I’m glad that the author shed light on eminent domain cases and how companies pressure people, especially older folks, into selling their land.
What I Feel Some Kinda Way About
1. Nothing
Honestly, this is the first review that I didn’t have any complaints about. I think it was a well-written book with great characters that were well-developed and a seamless story that hit all the right points in the plot. It is a good read from beginning to end.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 4.4/5
Recommendation: 5/5
If you want read my Top Three Things of this book, which contains spoilers, click here.
To check out more books by Dria Andersen, click here.
- The Butterscotch Bride by Parker J. Cole | A Book Review
Genre: Historical Romance | Christian Romance
Period: 1855 (6 years before the Civil War)
Location: Alabama
The Butterscotch Bride is an antebellum story of two slaves who are discovering love in a dark world. Permelia has never seen the hardship of slavery as her missus’s ‘favorite’, while it left scars on Horace’s body and soul. Yet, As their attraction for each other grows stronger, they find their worlds colliding and questions forming: What does freedom mean to them, and what is it worth?
“I wanna kiss you…see if’n you taste as good as dat butterscotch.”
What Makes A Butterscotch Bride by Parker J. Cole A Good Read
1. Complexity of Characters
Along with the main characters, the supporting characters are written with complex backgrounds and experience their own issues as well as internal conflicts. It makes each character unique and gives them a three-dimensional characteristic, that makes you understand and relate to them.
2. A Different Kind of Story
I think that the author created a unique setting for the characters of this story. This uniqueness of the slaves’ situation on this plantation creates a grey area that is rarely seen in antebellum stories, especially for Permelia’s situation. This allows the characters to question and challenge what they know, what they want, and the reasons behind it.
3. Respect
Even though the majority of the black people in the novel are slaves, they have a good level of respect for themselves and for others in their situations despite mistrust and jealousy. This is refreshing to see and gives the characters more depth.
What I Feel Some Kinda Way About
1. The End
I felt the ending was a little rush. I would have like to see more of what the characters went through and the feeling or thought–process for decisions that were made, especially after seeing the characters struggling internally throughout the story.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 4.2/5
Recommendation: 4.2/5
As always check out my Top Three Things, which contains spoilers, by clicking “here” !!!
To check out more books by Parker J. Cole, click here.
- An Unexpected Valentine by Te Russ| RAW Valentine’s Short | A Book Review
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Theme: Enemies to Lovers | Valentine Romance
Yasmin can think of a few reasons why she hates Nolan Griffin. However, an unexpected Valentine plan, makes her see him differently, slowly changing her heated gaze from one of hate to one of passion.
Nolan can’t understand why Yasmin placed a cold barrier between them, especially when he wants to be closer to her. Yet, a game of topgolf on Valentine’s Day may give him the answer that he is seeking.
“If you win, you can have whatever it is you want.”
What Makes An Unexpected Valentine by Te Russ A Good Read
1. Different Sides of the Character
For a short novella, the author does a great job of capturing the different sides of the main characters. We get to see the feisty and regretful side of Yasmin, and the cold anger and playfulness of Nolan. Seeing the different sides of them allowed us to see what kind of people they are.
2. The Build-up
Going from simmering hot to boiling hot. The chemistry between the two is definitely amazing. You could feel the heat through words and gestures. And when their passion exploded it was dynamite.
3. All in a Day
Even though the story happens all on Valentine’s Day, the author does a great job of showing how an enemy can become a lover in one day.
What I Feel Some Kinda Way About
1. All the Places It Could Go
The book is too short. The story should have been a novel instead of a novella. There is so much more to explore with such amazing characters.
2. A Cheesy Moment
There is a cheesy, yet teachable moment in the book. The moment is needed but I felt that it messed with the flow of the story.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 4/5
Recommendation: 4/5
As always check out my Top Three Things, which contains spoilers, by clicking “here” !!!
To check out more books by Te Russ, click here.
To read the book in which we first met Yasmin and Nolan, click here.
- A Groom for Altar by Parker J. Cole | The Blizzard Brides | A Book Review
Genre: Historical Romance | Christian Romance
Period: 1878 (8 years after the 15th Amendment, which allowed Black males to vote, was added to the U.S. Constitution)
Location: Nebraska
Altar isn’t looking for a groom but a father for her unborn child after her husband died in a blizzard storm. However, it is Wolfe Laingsburg that walks through the door of her home when she goes into sudden labor. Wolfe isn’t prepared for the scene before him when he opens the door. He came to Last Chance, Nebraska in search of a woman he may or may not marry. Yet, due to the compromising position that he finds himself in with Altar, he may be getting married sooner than he planned to.
“Miss, I’m a praying man and before I do anything. I’m going to pray about it.”
What Makes A Groom for Altar by Parker J. Cole A Good Read
1. A Sweet Romance
The romance between Altar and Wolfe is extremely sweet. It is full of communication, respect, and getting to know one another. Wolfe is always respectful of Altar and her choices while Altar tries to make Wolfe comfortable in the relationship and in her home. I think it is an excellent foundation for a blooming romance.
2. Mother/Woman
The author shows us a glimpse of what it is like to start a relationship as a mother. A new one at that. The author did a great job of showing how stressful giving birth can be on the body afterward. The author also shows how you want your man to understand you as a mother but still see you as a woman.
3. The Past
The past plays a major role in the characters’ personalities and how they handle situations. However, they don’t let it dictate their relationship with one another.
4. God-Fearing
I like that the author created the main male character with a strong faith and gave him a biblical story background. Usually, it is the female characters in a story that have a strong faith. It is good to see a man praying in the story.
What I would have like to See Happen
1. Introduction of Characters
I love the characters in the book even the side characters. I wished that the reader could see more of them and their interaction with the main characters.
2. Loose Ends
There are too many questions that were left unanswered especially about Altar. The author explained the major questions but other questions that I think are important were not. To me, if those questions were answered it would give a deeper look into the characters.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 3.8/5
Recommendation: 4/5
As always check out my Top Three Things, which contains spoilers, by clicking “here” !!!
To check out more books by Parker J. Cole, click here.
- Perfect by Delaney Diamond | Book Two of the Johnson Family | A Book Review
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Theme: Second Chance at Romance | Estranged Couple
A perfect marriage was what Cyrus Jackson had hoped for when he married Daniella Barrett-Johnson. However, the truth of a million-dollar secret caused Daniella to leave him. But just because she left doesn’t mean their marriage ended. Three years later, Daniella is beyond frustrated with Cyrus, who is purposely delaying their divorce. She wants out of their marriage for good. She is willing to do anything to get out of it. Unfortunately for her, the only way Cyrus is going to sign on the dotted line if she keeps her promise to him.
“Good for him…no one seemed to consider whether or not Cyrus was good for her.”
What Makes Perfect by Delaney Diamond A Good Read
1. A Woman who Fights Back
Daniella is a strong, independent woman not because she can take care of herself but because she fights for what she wants. When she wanted to leave, she left. When she wants to get a divorce, she fights for it. And when she wants love, she fights for it.
Even when she is backed into a corner, she fights to protect her interest. She doesn’t let money or people’s opinions stop her. That is what makes her strong.
2. Passion and Emotion
From chapter one to the end, it is HOT! I love the passion between Cyrus and Daniella. And passion aside, I think that author does a great job of displaying the characters’ emotions: from Cyrus’s cold anger and Daniella’s happiness while in Costa del Sol to their painful separation.
3. Cyrus’s Code of Honor
Even though Cyrus is a hard man to love and to deal with, he has some amazing qualities.
- He is a man of his word.
- He respects and supports his family and those with whom he is close to.
- He helps others without seeking recognition or thanks.
- He takes his marriage vows and his duty as a husband seriously despite the long separation.
4. Family Matters
As a book that is part two of a series, it does a great job of showing the relationship and progress of the first book’s characters as well as getting the reader interested in the following books’ characters.
5.The Process of the Story
If you read my other reviews, you know that I have a thing about time. This is the first review that I have done where I like the pace of the story. Daniella doesn’t go from telling Cyrus that she wants a divorce to immediately falling back in love with him. The author takes time to show each stage of them falling in love again. From their fighting to a somewhat agreement to their reconciliation.
What I would have like to See Happen
1. More of communication
While I love the romance between Cyrus and Daniella, I feel that they didn’t communicate their difference and expectations well. Misunderstanding and issues were solved through conversations with third-party characters and internal thinking over their partner’s actions.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 4/5
Recommendation: 4.2/5
As always check out my Top Three Things, which contains spoilers, by clicking “here” !!!
To check out more books by Delaney Diamond, click here.
- Legacy by Chanta Rand | A Book Review
Genre: Historical Romance
Period: 1930’s (Prohibition Era and the Great Depression)
Location: Detroit, Michigan
A legacy is what Jackson Chandler wants to build for his siblings and future family, which he plans to start with the woman is courting. With this beautiful, yet spoiled woman from a prestigious family, he hopes to turn his illegal family business into a legit and respectable one. Yet, an encounter with Miss Jolene Edwards at a mystery antique shop has him thinking about someone other than the woman he plans to build his future with. Jackson finds himself looking for Jolene every chance he gets. And every chance Jolene gets, she spends running away from Jackson, who she hates with a passion. But it seems luck is on Jackson’s side, thanks to his illicit establishment, he can provide Jolene with a job to earn the money that she needs.
“She almost fell, but not for you.”
What Makes Legacy by Chanta Randa A Good Read
- The female characters are definitely one aspect I like about this book.
Each female character is different from one another, and each has a complex personality. This is not limited to the main female character but the minor ones as well. With each female in the book, you get to see different types of black women from different social classes during the great depression, and how they handle life.
2. Diverse walks of life for blacks during the Great Depression .
When I think of the Great Depression and blacks during this time, my mind immediately pictures poor blacks in overalls cover in mud (history book pictures). However, this book shows a different take on black lives base on economic status: broke-poor, working-poor, new money, and generational wealth.
3. Unconventional things fill this book.
- Jackson, who is financially well off, is looking to marry up instead of the main female character.
- Jolene is a rum-runner, who loves and is good at the job.
- Blacks occupying different spaces, such as rum-runner, race car driver, and union worker, in the book, which are not common in black historical romance novels.
4. Historical references are throughout the pages of the novel.
The author does an excellent job of tying them into the story plot. She also gives a summary of them at the end of the book and provides references.
5.The male main character is a pleasure to read.
While Jackson isn’t a perfect angel, he is respectful towards all the female characters. He was also supportive to the ones that he was close to. Yet, what I like most about Jackson is his ability to push forward despite his insecurities.
What I would have like to See Happen
- Time!
The time in which the characters interacted with each other was short. And, the pace of the story was fast. However, I didn’t feel cheated by the time frame in which they fell in love. Maybe, I am biased. It is my opinion, that many couples during this era quickly married after meeting.
2. Tying-up Loose End in the Story!
Due to the uneventful side dramas mix with unfinished business between the characters, I feel cheated from juicy scenes. I feel that the author could have extended the story more to tie up loose ends between characters.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 3.8/5
Recommendation: 4.2/5
As always check out my Top Three Things by clicking “here”!!!
- The Promised Ones: Book One by Tremain Mishoe | A Book Review
Genre: Supernatural Romance
Contains: magic, shifters, and wizard
In The Promised Ones, waiting for the perfect one can be tiring, especially if you know you and your brothers have a Promised One out there who was created just for you. Fortunately for the shifter Kasim, Binah – a famous choreographer – feels drawn to the town Impisi, where Kasim’s pack lives. And even more so, she feels drawn to him. With new beginnings and new love, everything seems perfect. But not everyone is a fan of perfect and Kasim finding a Promised One, unless Binah is in their hands. Can Kasim prevent history from repeating itself, or will Binah fall into the same trap that was laid years before?
“..and she deserves a great warrior like you to love, cherish and protect her. And you will…”
What Makes The Promised Ones: Book One by Tremain Mishoe A Good Read
- Swahili
From the name of the town, where the story takes place, to other words throughout the book it contains Swahili words, which is perfect since I am currently studying Kiswahili.
2. Gamma First
The first book of this series doesn’t start off with the alpha, but the gamma. This is a nice change compared to the normal. The Gamma also has his own dream and career instead of working with or under the alpha, and this is the same for the others in the pack. It really emphasizes being your own man but working as a unit with love and respect.
3. The Villain(s)
For me, this really makes the book. I think that the author really does a great job with the villain(s) personality. You never know when and how the villain is going to pop up. The layer of craziness and reasoning surrounding the villain is shocking as well.
4. The Pack
The pack members are sweethearts. I love their energy and their bromance. They are always making jokes and depending on one another. You can feel the love throughout the story.
5. The shades, sizes, personalities of blackness
The author does a great job of using different colors, sizes (mainly for the ladies), and personalities for each character. Throughout the book, you can feel the characters’ uniqueness and different voices.
6. Everything Black
I love that majority, if not all, of the characters are black. In addition, you have black consciousness throughout the book from the music mentioned at the beginning of the book to the explanations of the shifter and the names of the characters.
What I Feel Some Kinda Way About
- The Plot
I, personally, have a love and hate relationship with the plot. On one hand, I love the plot surrounding the villain and all the mystery and reasoning behind that as well as the twist near the last 25% of the book. However, on the other hand, I do not like the romance part of the book, which is why I read the book in the first place.
2. Time Frame!
If you already read my other reviews, then you already know I hate when the characters fall madly in love within a two weeks time frame. I usually make an exception for stories with destiny mates, sometimes…okay not really, but I need there to be more than ‘He/she is my mate. They are perfect.’
3. Fluff Romance
While Kasim and Binah are cute together, their romance is full of fluff. It is like watching that moment in Sleeping Beauty, where the prince and princess met for the first time. He is perfect, and she is perfect. Everything that he/she does is perfect. It is kind of annoying because you don’t get to see them grow or develop in love, compare to the growth and development in the sexual tension.
4. Acceptance
When it comes to the main characters, they just accept everything about each other, like no questions ask. For a female, I find it a little, no very, concerning. I had questions that I wanted answers for but the main female, and the guy at times, seems to go along with whatever because of love. I can’t.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 2.8/5
Recommendation: 2.5/5
Would I try this author again? Yes*
*Despite my low review and recommendation of the book, I will read another book by this author. I have a feeling that Tremain Mishoe will write amazing books in the future. This book, unfortunately, for me, isn’t one of them.
If you want read my Top Three Things of this book, which contains spoilers, click here.
- Redemption: Earth’s Cry by Edwina Fort | Book Two of Redemption Series| A Book Review
Genre: Supernatural Romance
Contains: supernatural abilities and power
Earth’s world is her daughter Rain, and she will do anything to keep her. Anything includes kidnapping her late husband’s brother and holding him for ransom. Too bad she kidnapped the wrong brother. On the other hand, Melech is more than happy with Earth’s mistake and being tied down by her. After all, he has been lusting after her since she married his younger brother. Now, his brother is dead. The fire inside him still burns for her, and he plans to consume her with it. When he leaves her ropes, he plans on taking her and Rain with him.
Redemption: Earth’s Cry (Melech & Earth’s Tale) is part two of the Redemption Series. If you haven’t read part 1, it’s okay. You still can read this book as a standalone; however, I suggest reading the first book of this series when you have time. It’s really good, and I will do a review on it later. This is my first book by this author, so I want to do a review of this book first.
“You promised you would never look at me this way…Like I’m a monster.”
What Makes Redemption: Earth’s Cry by Edwina Fort A Good Read
- The multitude of characters
We get to see a variety of characters and their connections to the main characters. While the second half of the book characters’ personalities are not shown as much as the first half, you still felt the relevance of each character.
2. Diversity in the black community
I love the representation of different black people in the book. You have at least three different ethnic groups and three different classes of blacks; rich, low-middle, and low class. And their interaction with one another is perfect.
3. The Villain(s)
For me, this really makes the book. I think that the author really does a great job with the villain(s) personality. You never know when and how the villain is going to pop up. The layer of craziness and reasoning surrounding the villain is shocking as well.
4. The Jargon
I like that this book has a combination of proper English, black urban English, and Jamaican Patwah. Do I need to say more?
5. Historical Information
Any author that has historical information in their books, I will automatically love them. And this author includes some in the book. This book contains information about Black Seminoles. I think this topic, as well as other topics of Black relations with other racial groups, is often overlook and under study. Thus, this was a nice surprise inside this book.
5. Earth’s Strength
As the main female, Earth isn’t a damsel in distress. She fights for herself and those she loves. She doesn’t roll over and gives into love. She fights for an equal place of respect in her relationship with Melech. She,as well as the other women in the book, are powerful beings.
What I Feel Some Kinda Way About
- The biblical reference and supernatural tying together
This is my first supernatural book that includes Christianity in such a major and positive way. It is not like vampire stories where the vampire will die if holy water touches it or books with archangels. It is something different. I truly don’t know how I feel about it. I haven’t processed it fully since it is so new to me. If you know other books like this, let me know.
2. The time frame of the relationship
This is a pet peeve for me. All of the reviews that I gave thus far have this in the ‘do not like’. While I feel the love between the two mains, the time fame just isn’t for me.
3. Brianna
The way they talked about Brianna. I know she isn’t the brightest in the bunch and a little ridiculous sometimes, but she has Earth’s back.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 4.5/5
Recommendation: 5
If you want read my Top Three Things of this book, which contains spoilers, click here.
- A Shift in the Stars by Dandridge Monroe| Book One of Power Within the Stars| A Book Review
Genre: Supernatural Romance
Contains: shifters, mystical abilities
In A Shift in the Stars, we travel to a realm that mirrors Earth’s East Africa. A realm call Ajabu. In Ajabu, we are greeted by the King of the Westlands, Ozouf Odhimabo-Njeri, or simple Oz. His land is losing its magical powers due to poor decisions and the increasing number of ‘The Other’ occupying his land. But there is hope in the form of Rieka from the In-between. She seems to be the light to brighten up the stars in the Westlands as well as its magic. However, the question is: is she willing to stay and help correct the mistake her mate made; especially after he chose someone else before her?
“I love you too…. From now until the stars fall from the skies.”
What Makes A Shift in the Stars by Dandridge Monroe A Good Read
- The relationship between Oz and Zo
Zo, or Zorion Mwanga-Kimani, is the Prince of the Eastern land. While most novels have the two most powerful kingdoms as rival or one stronger than the other, so that the main character is the strongest, this is not the case here. Both Oz and Zo are strong in their own rights and are great friends. The bromace is real!!!
2. Positive Families
Throughout the story, we see example of two positive black families that are supportive and caring, yet have different dynamics. The dynamics, I think, match with the characters that are placed in each family.
3. The Others
I really like how the author explains the background of the others. It is a different take of explaining race relation and how two apples from the same tree can taste different. (I don’t want to give away the explanation since it is an important part of the series).
4. The Realm
The description of the realm is very beautiful, even though we don’t get to see much of it outside of the palaces.
5. Different Shifters
While the main kingdom shifters are a wolf and a lion, we also get to see other shifters that are not commonly mention in shifter stories. Although, we don’t get to see them in action, it is nice to have them.
6. Girl Power!!!
I know what you are saying: “Why isn’t this under what the things I love?” Because it is only shown near the end of the story. We are able to see what Rieka is truly made up of, but Princess Isabis’s (Zo’s mate) power is never but on display. BUT I love that the females are stronger than their mates, and their mates are cool with it.
What I Feel Some Kinda Way About
1. Lack of Romance
I can’t feel the love between Oz and Rieka. It just isn’t there for me but I think it is due to the other 2 reasons on this list.
2. Rush
For a story with 217 pages, it feels rush. Eventful moments and rising actions fall to a horrible climax. It feels as if the author had a lot to say and end up missing the delivery.
3. Oz
oh Oz ..just smh. Read my Top 3 Things here. The top 2 are fill with OZ.
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 3/5
Recommendation: 3.5/5 A great in-between books read.
- A Destiny Awakened by Dria Andersen| Book One of the Destiny Series| A Book Review
Genre: Supernatural Romance
Contains: vampires, shifters, goddess/gods/ psychic abilities
The plot, for the book, as well as this series, begins over 500 years ago with the destruction of the Ajo’s temple and the enslavement of the Ajo people. Fast forward a couple of centuries later, we meet Zahara, a normally complaisant woman, who stumbles onto her destiny, This is the beginning to the end of the Aje’s punishment as well as an upcoming war. This is all thanks to a drunken decision to help her sexy neighbor, Fynn. However, Fynn doesn’t need Zahara’s help. In fact, what he needs is to get his beast in control around her if he desires to protect her and help her fulfill her destiny. Can a stolen artifact and the magic surrounding it bring them together, or keep them apart?
“I don’t envy you when she wakes.”
What Makes A Destiny Awakened by Dria Andersen A Good Read
- The African goddess and gods in it
Do you know how hard it is to find supernatural books with black goddesses and gods in them? Hard, very hard.
- But the author added three: Oya (a Yoruba goddess with the power to control the weather), Rubaga (an Ankore, a Ugandan group of people, god of creation), and Azar, (the ruler of Azreal, which is the angel of death in Islam and some Jewish cultures.)
2. The Characters
I found the characters to be realistic in actions and thought. Zahara, for example, doesn’t just fall in line with her new situation but question her sanity and the supernatural powers that she obtains. Ajain, a side character with a stick up his butt, is not quick to care or respect Zahara just because she is the main piece to their puzzle.
3. Sub-plots
The author does a great job of expressing the emotions and telling the stories of the different side characters without taking away from the main plot. She actually makes you interested in the other characters.
4. Black Awareness
The book ties together the kidnapping and disappearance of our brothers and sisters with the plot of the book.
5. The Relationship
The connection between Fynn and Zahara is strong and comforting. The fact that they were crushing on each other for 2 years is a plus. Throughout the book, you can see that they care for each other deeply and want to help each other with their problems. This is enough for me to root for and respect them as a couple; however, the passion is slightly lacking, except for the scene at the end of the book. Furthermore, I like Fynn’s honesty about how he feels being mated with Zahara and why he wants their relationship a certain way.
What I Feel Some Kinda Way About
1. The Time Framed
Even though the book doesn’t feel rush and the time is well-paced, the majority of the story happens in a short time period. I guess a lot can change in a short time, but I prefer my love stories to spam a longer time frame.
2. The Eyes
One of my pet peeves is when authors write black characters with hazel eyes. Don’t take this the wrong way, hazel eyes are pretty. However, so are the different shades of brown and black eyes. Yet, all three of the females of importance in the story have hazel eyes. (Note: The author has different colors of brown eyes in her other books).
Book Review and Recommendation
Review: 4/5
Recommendation: 4/5
If you want to read my Top Three Things of this book, which contains spoilers, click here.
To check out more books by Dria Andersen, click here.
